The GC That Built Its Own Procore | Colin Stoner, Novo Construction
Strange advice from a man who built his own Procore.In 2011, Novo Construction evaluated Procore and walked away. They built Sentinel instead, their own system of record. Fifteen years later, Colin Stoner (Chief Innovation...
In 2011, Novo Construction evaluated Procore and decided against adopting it. Instead, they developed Sentinel, their own construction management system. Fifteen years later, Colin Stoner, Chief Innovation Officer with over two decades at Novo, shares how this decision positioned them ahead in AI readiness long before many in the industry established a data strategy.
Building Technology with Team Buy-In
Colin Stoner advises that companies should only build their own technology if the entire team is fully committed. Without total buy-in, attempting to build internal tools can be counterproductive. At Novo, every AI project begins by asking, “What do you hate about your job?” This user-focused approach drives meaningful innovation.
AI Integration and Operational Impact
Novo uses AI extensively, including drafting RFIs with models trained on over a decade of their own documents. Tools like Claude Code are used daily to streamline processes. Despite these advancements, the company maintains its headcount, aiming for “same headcount, more revenue, more projects,” demonstrating how AI can boost productivity without increasing staff.
Challenges and Advice for Construction Technology
The episode covers challenges in adopting construction technology and offers insights into when to build internally versus buying solutions. Novo’s experience underscores the importance of aligning technology development with team needs and fostering a culture embracing innovation to successfully integrate AI in construction workflows.
Chapter guide
-
0:00
Intro -
01:00
Introduction to Colin Stoner and Novo Construction -
04:02
The Role of AI in Construction -
07:01
Technology Evolution in Construction -
10:07
Challenges in Construction Technology Adoption -
12:57
Building Technology Internally vs. Buying -
16:00
The Sentinel System: Overview and Benefits -
19:07
AI Integration and Future Prospects -
22:06
Advice for Companies Considering Internal Development -
27:11
Streamlining Certificate of Insurance Tracking -
29:18
Revolutionizing RFI Processes with AI -
33:03
Enhancing Project Management with AI Tools -
35:20
Navigating External Tech Solutions -
39:52
Challenges of Tech Sales in Construction -
42:57
Preparing for AI Integration in Construction -
46:24
The Role of AI in Workforce Dynamics -
47:34
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