In the digital world, it can be easy to get caught up in the newest technologies and solutions. But sometimes, the quickest fix to a problem comes from older solutions
With the amount of disruption and uncertainty in the architecture/engineering (AE) industry, it’s easy to feel like the only way forward is with shiny new tools and cutting-edge solutions. Every year brings new trends, from AI-driven project management systems to blockchain-powered building information models (yep, that’s a thing). But it very well could be that the key to solving some of today’s increasingly complex business problems is hiding among the relics of the past.
Could the time be right to dust off some of those old-fashioned business principles and see how they might work? Here’s a list of some of today’s problems and yesterday’s answers.
Today’s problem—digital overload and miscommunication.
In our hyper-connected world, it’s amazing how many miscommunications happen, especially in project management. With emails, Teams messages, and texts flying back and forth, it’s no wonder things get lost in translation. Take, for example, the engineering firm that was working on a bridge project when a critical design update was sent through a long reply-all email chain. The update was missed by a key team member buried under irrelevant replies. Weeks later, the construction team discovered they were using outdated specs, resulting in costly rework and project delays—all because vital information got lost in the email clutter.
Yesterday’s answer—have a good old-fashioned face-to-face
Revolutionary, I know. Face-to-face meetings—whether formal or impromptu—meant that you could hash out details, read body language, and make sure everyone was really on the same page. Sure, meetings can be time-consuming, but they worked.
Maybe it’s time to be more intentional about using in-office days for regular team huddles or quick one-on-one check-ins. In today’s hybrid work environment, those few days when people are actually in the office are a golden opportunity to have those five-minute hallway chats that can save you from weeks of digital back-and-forth misunderstandings. By making in-person communication a priority during these times, you might find that productivity and collaboration get a nice boost.
Today’s problem—automation overload
We’re all about automation these days. From CRM software to automated project updates, it seems like every interaction can now be handled by a bot. But here’s the thing—clients are feeling more and more like they’re just another data point in a system. The personal connection that once existed between firms and their clients is often lost, and clients are feeling more like numbers than partners.
Yesterday’s answer—handwritten notes and personal visits
There’s something nostalgic—and incredibly effective—about personal touches like handwritten notes or in-person visits. Picture this: You’re a client who just wrapped up a massive project and instead of getting an automated “Thanks!” email, you get a handwritten letter from the principal of the firm. Or maybe a project manager drops by just to check in on how things are going. These small, “antique” gestures build relationships that automation simply can’t replicate. It’s the business equivalent of stumbling upon a vintage record player at a yard sale—sure, streaming music is convenient, but vinyl has soul.
The next time you’re tempted to shoot off a templated email, consider going the extra mile with a personal touch. It just might be the key to retaining clients and standing out in a sea of automation.
Today’s problem—complexity creep
With every new software upgrade, firms are drowning in dashboards, charts, and project management tools that require their own IT departments just to function. While these tools certainly have their place, they often end up being the tail that wags the dog.
Yesterday’s answer—whiteboards and sticky notes
Believe it or not, there was a time when project management didn’t require a PhD in computer science. Instead, people used whiteboards, sticky notes, and (gasp) spreadsheets. There’s something beautifully simple about walking into a room and seeing a project timeline laid out on a whiteboard—no login required, no software updates, just good old-fashioned visibility. Going low-tech for some aspects of project management can help teams focus on the actual work rather than the tools.
Today’s problem—over-reliance on hiring data
Today’s hiring process can feel like running a marathon through algorithms, personality assessments, and psychometric testing. While data have their place, they can often lead to analysis paralysis, where you end up hiring someone who looks perfect on paper but isn’t a great cultural fit.
Yesterday’s answer—get to know the person and trust your gut
Hiring decisions used to be made by gut instinct and face-to-face interviews rather than a 12-step, data-driven process. Sometimes, you just knew when someone would be a good fit, even if they didn’t check every box on the qualifications list. Sure, keep your data-driven hiring tools, but don’t forget the power of intuition. A handshake, a conversation, and a gut feeling can go a long way in finding the right fit for your firm.
Oldies but goodies
While you should never stop innovating and pushing forward, there’s a lot of value in looking back. Some of the most effective solutions to today’s business problems might not come from the latest app or software update—they could come from the tried-and-true methods that got us this far in the first place. So, next time you’re facing a modern-day business problem, don’t be afraid to head up to the attic and sift through history’s good ideas. You just might find what you’re looking for.
