It is true that most of us do not appreciate change. Whether change comes about spontaneously or predictably, the promptness in which we adapt and embrace change determines our success both in the long and short term, our private affairs, and our businesses. Furthermore, in this rapidly changing world, with technological and social attitude changes as the forefront drivers, it is inevitable that change will come to whatever industry you are in.
The built environment and accessibility are no exceptions. Often, I meet with builders and contractors on site who are either not aware of changes to the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) Premises Standards or unwilling to embrace the changes even though they are aware of them. They often say, ‘I have been in this line of work for 30 years and have never done it that way’. Or ‘Why is it done that way now, I have always done it this way’. The unintentional or sometimes clear reluctance to adapt to change takes both time and resources away from the project.
Whether you are a lift company, handrail contractor or builder, embracing change can be your greatest advantage. While your closest competitor struggles to accommodate changes, you can promptly adapt. This will be noticed by all stakeholders in your final product finishes and result in your company getting that phone call or email asking you to join the next tender team. Successful and prompt adaption to change means that project delivery is met ahead of schedule.
To get ahead of the curve, one must get in touch with changes at the draft stages at the compilation and completion of the codes. Register for forums and associations or simply ask specialists questions within their scope to clear any doubts or misinformation you might have. No question is too trivial.
Your final product or finishes might look ‘ordinary’ if you do not have your questions answered by experts or are not aware of code changes. Next time you think of the word ‘change’, think of the words ‘potential’, ‘success’ and ‘efficiency’. Get the edge and change the changeable – you.