Innovation and the pursuit of excellence have defined Paynter Dixon over 110 years, as chronicled in our recent historical series.

Our Innovation Committee supports the modern company in fostering creativity and new ideas. We asked three committee members to share their thoughts on the industry, and how the company is embracing innovation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Innovation is more than technology or software – how so?

Clinton:
To innovate means to introduce something new or to make significant improvements to existing products, services, processes, or ideas. Technology can be an enabler of innovation, or an innovation in its own right. But it still requires the desire or idea to change.

Change in a non-technology enabled process or product will often deliver more value or efficiency as technology or software poorly purposed or utilised.

What role does innovation play in construction?  

Alex:

Innovation plays a crucial role in construction, influencing both materials and building techniques.

The development of new substances can offer improved durability, sustainability, and efficiency. For example, we are expediting the construction program of a new primary school for Toongabbie Christian College by using high-performance concrete (HPC) with water resistant properties. Additives such as silica fume help HPC gain strength faster than traditional concrete while additional waterproofing measures such as coatings, membranes or sealants aren’t required, allowing project teams to move onto subsequent phases faster.

Elsewhere, we’re utilising engineered timber products in gyms and swimming centres. The selection of engineered timber, known for being sustainable and strong, allows for creative and flexible designs due to its ability to be pre-fabricated and shaped in various forms.

Meanwhile, BIM modelling, drones, and 3D surveying are streamlining construction processes. For instance, 3D surveying uploaded to BIM allows for virtual modelling of buildings, enabling better coordination among different trades and reducing errors. Visualising the final product is another benefit for the project delivery team.

Does innovative thinking apply to safety as well?

Alex:

Absolutely. Innovations in construction safety have enhanced worker safety through the development of safer equipment, better training programs, and improved site management practices. Paynter Dixon is introducing initiatives such as sweepers, air filtration and vacuums to minimise the spread of silica dust and particulate matter into the surrounding environment, improving air quality levels and reducing the ecological footprint of the project.

The integration of technology and equipment not only improves health and safety but a clean and organised site, enhances workplace conditions leading to increased productivity.

Paynter Dixon pioneered the Design and Construct system in Australia back in the 1940s. How does innovation apply to D and C in the 21^st century?

Jade:

Innovation and continuous improvement absolutely apply to the 21^st Century – and continue to evolve with time. It’s how an organisation can be at the forefront of new trends, processes and legislation which directly impact the business, and the outcomes delivered to clients. Paynter Dixon pioneered this model, and 110 years later, continue to adapt and improve in this space.

Alluded to by Alex, innovation plays a role in influencing different areas within construction. Similarly, innovation plays a critical role in design. It could be in the form of 3D modelling which speeds up projects by detecting conflicts between various models during the design and documentation process. Likewise, exploring modular construction and smart building design.

These innovations are transforming how buildings function, emphasising efficiency, sustainability and the overall experience of occupants.

“What does this look like for D and C?” one might ask. With the continual shift in legislation, building requirements and sustainability targets, it’s crucial that innovation is equally balanced with collaboration. Partnering with our clients, end users, consultants and colleagues to understand what form of innovation is appropriate for our projects”.

Paynter Dixon has defined values: supportive, creative, responsive and determined. Do they influence our approach?

Clinton:
Paynter Dixon was born from innovation long before we articulated our values as we know them today. However, these values are the key ingredients as innovation is not only encouraged but also nurtured through collaboration, creativity, adaptability, and persistence, driving the company to continuously improve and stay ahead.

Regulatory compliance in our industry has increased in scale and complexity. How does innovation influence compliance?

 Alex:

The key word is ‘proactive’. Paynter Dixon meets and even exceeds the ever-changing regulatory landscape by investing in our people. This takes the form of proactive training, and streamlining processes through collaborative platforms. By leveraging these approaches, we go beyond baseline compliance to stay ahead of the regulatory curve. We improve project outcomes and build on our industry reputation for best practice.

Jade:

We are constantly faced with changes to legislative requirements that are complex to achieve without interaction between various parties. A common anomaly of the industry involves design which is potentially unbuildable – creating a rift between the designer and builder.

With D and C, we bring all stakeholders together from the outset, ensuring all aspects of a project are discussed and agreed upon to achieve the desirable outcome. There will always be challenges along the way, but there is nothing more rewarding than working as a team towards the end goal.

Looking ahead…

At Paynter Dixon, innovation is embedded in our 110-year legacy, influencing every facet of our work — from design and construction to safety, sustainability, and compliance.

As we continue to evolve, it’s clear that innovation is more than just adopting the latest technologies; it’s about fostering a culture that allows us to proactively address challenges and seize new opportunities.

By staying ahead of regulations, trends and client needs, Paynter Dixon will continue to lead through innovation, delivering excellence for generations to come.