Innovation Deciphered

Transforming Contamination: Innovation in Land Remediation with Cognition Land and Water

🎙️ Welcome to Innovation Deciphered In this episode, your host Time Fitch ventures into the world of land remediation with two distinguished guests, Graham Bucknell and Andy O'Dea from Cognition Land and Water—winners of the prestigious 2024 Ground Engineering Contractor of the Year award.

This episode dives deep into the complexities of transforming contaminated and underutilised land into safe, valuable spaces. Graham and Andy bring decades of experience to the table, sharing insights into the latest techniques and technologies used in land remediation. From cleaning up hazardous Brownfield sites to addressing the challenges posed by radiological contamination, and the newly recognised threat of "forever chemicals" like PFAS, they discuss how early involvement and innovative approaches are crucial to successful outcomes.

They’ll explore real-world examples, such as the remediation of former industrial and military sites, where cutting-edge methods like in-situ treatments, foam fractionation for water purification, and advanced materials management are employed to ensure safety and sustainability. You'll also learn about the critical role of regulatory frameworks and the importance of collaboration between contractors and clients in navigating these complex projects.

Whether you’re an industry professional, a sustainability advocate, or simply intrigued by the challenges of land development, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the technical expertise and forward-thinking strategies that are helping to rebuild and revitalise our environment.

Tune in to Innovation Deciphered and discover how these groundbreaking efforts are turning contaminated sites into thriving, healthy spaces for future generations.

Revolutionising Building Design: Underfloor Air Conditioning & Sustainable Innovations with Antone Husbands

🎙️ Welcome to Innovation Deciphered! In this episode, our host Tim Fitch is joined by Antone Husbands, the Commercial Manager from AET Flexible Space. Stay tuned for an enlightening discussion on underfloor air conditioning systems and their advantages over traditional ceiling-based systems.

Antone's journey to AET Flexible Space is unique. Starting with a background in popular music performance, he transitioned through various roles in sales, consultancy, and telecoms before moving into the construction industry five years ago. Now, as a commercial manager, Antone is focused on raising awareness about the benefits of underfloor air conditioning systems.

In the conversation, they delve into the distinct advantages of underfloor air conditioning, such as increased space efficiency, reduced building height, and lower embodied carbon, all contributing to more sustainable and flexible building designs. Antone explains why this technology isn't yet the dominant choice and the challenges of re-educating stakeholders in the construction industry.

They also touch upon how this system can be particularly advantageous in repurposing heritage buildings, allowing for the preservation of beautiful internal architecture without the intrusive presence of ductwork. Additionally, Antone sheds light on potential new markets, including the burgeoning demand for lab spaces in urban areas. Join us as they explore these topics and more, including the importance of stakeholder education and the future trends in sustainable building technologies. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of innovation, construction, and sustainability.

Don't miss this episode of "Innovation Deciphered" – where we uncover the technologies shaping our future.

Innovating Safety: Jamie Tong's Journey to Revolutionise Utility Accident Prevention with Scannetix

🎙️ Welcome to Innovation Deciphered! In this episode, our host Tim Fitch is joined by Jamie Tong, CEO and founder of Scannetix. Jamie shares his inspiring path from an apprentice in mechanical and electrical engineering to the founder of a pioneering technology company aimed at reducing utility strikes.

Join us as we explore Jamie's transition from employee to entrepreneur, driven by a critical industry issue he witnessed firsthand. Discover how a scholarship from the Worshipful Company of Constructors and support from Innovate UK fuelled his mission to create a solution that promises both economic and safety benefits.

Jamie sheds light on the staggering statistics and immense challenges faced by the construction industry due to utility strikes, and how his innovative approach could revolutionise the way we manage critical infrastructure. Tune in to hear about the importance of following your nose, leveraging luck, and the relentless hard work behind developing a groundbreaking product.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, entrepreneurship, and making a tangible impact on society. Stay curious, stay inspired, and keep deciphering innovation with us.

Please note that at 18:04, our guest intended to refer to '74 life-changing injuries,' not fatalities. At Innovation Deciphered and Scannetix, we ensure our audience receives accurate information.

#InnovationDeciphered #TechEvolution

Unlocking the Future: Exploring 4D Planning with Christopher Briener of PreconVision

🎙️ Welcome to Innovation Deciphered! In this episode, our host Tim Fitch is joined by Christopher Breiner Founder & Director at PreConVision Limited. Join us as we delve into the world of 4D Planning and explore its dimensions beyond the conventional 3D.

Christopher shares his journey from carpentry to architecture, ultimately specialising in 4D Planning. With a blend of project management and construction expertise, Christopher's passion for 3D visualisation led him to pioneer the niche field of 4D Planning.

Discover the evolution of 4D Planning through different dimensions as Christopher elaborates on the significance of each level, from 2D to 5D. Gain a deeper understanding of how 4D planning integrates time into the digital model, revolutionising project planning and management.

Explore real-life applications of 4D Planning where Christopher showcases its role in enhancing stakeholder communication, streamlining construction processes, and mitigating project delays. Learn how PreconVision's innovative approach utilises cutting-edge software for visualisation and fosters stakeholder engagement. But the conversation doesn't stop there.

Christopher provides a glimpse into the future of construction visualisation, where AI-powered advancements promise to revolutionise scenario planning and optimisation.

Join us for an enlightening discussion packed with industry insights, case studies, and a glimpse into the future of construction innovation.

#InnovationDeciphered #TechEvolution #CuttingEdgeTech

Unlocking Architectural Innovation: The Power of R&D Tax Credits with Patrick Inglis

Welcome to the latest episode of Innovation Deciphered! Join our host Tim Fitch as he embarks on an enlightening conversation with Patrick Inglis, President of the Association of Consulting Architects, and a distinguished architect in his own right. Patrick brings over two decades of expertise to the table as a Director at IBLA, an architectural firm he co-founded in 2000. Patrick shares his knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the transformative power of R&D tax credits for architectural practices.

In this discussion, they explore the misconceptions surrounding R&D in architecture and how practitioners can identify qualifying activities within their projects. From repurposing historic buildings to tackling sustainability challenges, architects often engage in complex problem-solving that aligns with R&D criteria.

Patrick emphasizes the importance of shifting mindset towards recognizing R&D efforts and leveraging the tax credit scheme as a strategic advantage. Through real-life examples and practical insights, we uncover the significant opportunities awaiting architectural firms willing to explore this incentive.

They also address common concerns and dispel myths, clarifying that R&D tax credits are a legitimate government initiative designed to foster innovation and support businesses in their quest for excellence.

Whether you're a seasoned architect or a newcomer to the field, this episode offers invaluable guidance on navigating the R&D tax credit landscape and unlocking the potential for growth and innovation within your practice.

 

Tune in as we decode the intricacies of innovation in architecture and pave the way for a more dynamic and forward-thinking industry.

 

#Architecture #Innovation #RDTaxCredits #UKBusiness  #ArchitecturalInnovation #IndustryInsights

Breaking Boundaries: Innovating a Safer World with Kromek and Ben Cantwell

🎙️ Welcome to another captivating episode of Innovation Deciphered! Hosted by Ben Pritchard, this week's episode delves into an extraordinary journey with Ben Cantwell, Innovation Director at Kromek. Join the exploration of Kromek's remarkable evolution from a Durham University spin-off to a global leader in cutting-edge technology, dedicated to creating a safer world.

From humble beginnings, Kromek embraced innovation at its core, leveraging its proprietary technology to develop a range of ground-breaking products. With over 20 years of experience, Ben sheds light on their journey, starting with the pioneering work on crystal growth technology for radiation detection.

Discover how Kromek transitioned from a two-man company to a global powerhouse, continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation. Ben shares insights into their strategic approach, emphasizing the importance of moving up the value chain and exploring new avenues for growth. Learn how Kromek navigated the complexities of highly regulated industries, from aviation security to healthcare, and how they adapted their technology to address emerging challenges.

Delve into their collaboration journey with universities, leveraging research partnerships to drive technological advancements and tackle societal issues. Explore Kromek's forward-thinking approach to AI integration and its relentless pursuit of cutting-edge solutions. From enhancing detector performance to pioneering new applications in biothreat detection, Kromek remains at the forefront of innovation, shaping a safer future for generations to come. Join the unravelling of the remarkable story of Kromek, a company dedicated to making the world safer through innovation and technological excellence.

Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with Ben Cantwell, offering a glimpse into the dynamic world of technological innovation and its profound impact on society. Tune in, engage, and be inspired as the intricacies of innovation at Kromek are decoded on Innovation Deciphered! #InnovationDeciphered #TechEvolution #CuttingEdgeTech

Building Tomorrow: Unveiling the Power of Connectivity in Construction with Jay Moorhouse.

Welcome to the latest episode of "Innovation Deciphered," where our host Tim Fitch is joined by Jay Moorhouse, Chief Operating Officer at Onwave, a technology company at the forefront of connectivity solutions for the construction and infrastructure sectors. In this insightful episode, Jay shares his expertise on the pivotal role of connectivity in driving innovation, particularly in enhancing safety and sustainability on construction sites.

The conversation delves into the critical role of site-wide connectivity in enabling various technologies, from safety measures to environmental monitoring and productivity tools. Jay highlights the importance of connectivity not only for real-time communication but also for the seamless transfer of large volumes of data collected on-site, facilitating informed decision-making.

Safety emerges as a central theme, with discussions on how connectivity enhances situational awareness, prevents accidents, and supports remote monitoring of hazardous areas. The podcast explores innovative applications such as geofencing and geolocation technology, which alert workers to potential risks and streamline logistics.

Moreover, Jay emphasizes the need for resilience and security in connectivity solutions, especially in remote or challenging environments. He discusses the adoption of new technologies like 5G and the potential for future advancements such as 6G, underscoring the rapid pace of technological evolution.

The conversation extends to the broader impact of connectivity on environmental sustainability, including initiatives to minimize biodiversity loss and track carbon usage on construction sites. Jay also shares insights into the cultural shifts required to maximize the benefits of technology adoption, citing examples of data-driven insights revealing inefficiencies in equipment utilization.

Looking ahead, Jay discusses future developments in connectivity technology, including advancements in geolocation for 3D tracking and the integration of artificial intelligence to leverage data more effectively.

Don't miss the conclusion of this enlightening episode as we delve into the transformative potential of connectivity solutions and the continuous pursuit of innovation in the construction industry. Tune in now to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of connectivity and its crucial role in shaping the future of construction.

#ConnectivityInConstruction #InnovationDeciphered

Innovating Urban Biodiversity: Greening Our Cities with Alistair Law

Welcome to Innovation Deciphered, where we delve into the cutting-edge world of innovation shaping our future. In this episode, our host Brendan Morahan is joined by Alistair Law, the CEO and founder of Vertical Meadow, a pioneering organisation revolutionising the engineering sector to address biodiversity needs. Alistair's journey from a Paris balcony to a nominee for the Earthshot Prize 2024 is inspiring.

 

Join us as we explore how Alistair's background in engineering led him to envision a future where construction not only sustains but also enhances biodiversity. In conversation with our host, Alistair shares his transition from structural engineering to focusing on the holistic purpose of buildings. He recounts the pivotal moment when he realised the potential of incorporating greenery into urban landscapes, sparking the inception of Vertical Meadow. Alistair integrates biodiversity solutions seamlessly into the built environment through his innovative approach.

 

Vertical Meadow offers scalable solutions that blend seamlessly with existing construction practices, from transforming simple scaffolding wraps to multifunctional rain screen systems. But it's not just about the technology; Alistair emphasises the importance of education and collaboration. Teaming up with organizations like the Wildlife Trust and Bug Life, Vertical Meadows ensures its solutions are tailored to local environments and contribute to broader ecological networks.

 

Moreover, Alistair addresses the economic viability of biodiversity in construction. He discusses the necessity of aligning innovation with market demand and regulatory requirements, emphasising the role of timing and funding in driving change. Throughout the conversation, Alistair's passion for biodiversity and sustainable urban development shines through. From challenging perceptions of "weeds" to redefining the role of green spaces in cities, Alistair's vision offers a glimpse into a greener, more resilient future.

 

Join us as we unravel the complexities of innovation and biodiversity with Alistair Law on this episode of Innovation Deciphered.

 

#Sustainability #UrbanDevelopment #Innovation

Innovative Mindfulness: Unlocking Well-being for Project Success with Hedley Smyth

Welcome to Innovation Deciphered! In this captivating episode, host Tim engages in a riveting conversation with esteemed guest, Hedley Smyth, Emeritus Professor at UCL's Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction. With a career spanning academia and industry, Hedley brings unparalleled expertise, offering invaluable insights into project-oriented firms.

 

Delving deep into the realm of mindfulness and well-being in project-based industries, Hedley explores the profound implications for organisational dynamics and employee performance. Their collaborative journey, which began years ago at UCL, has led to a focus on mindfulness as a key factor in enhancing efficiency within these sectors.

 

Drawing from extensive research and interviews, Hedley shares compelling perspectives on the impact of mindfulness on stress mitigation and productivity. From early warning signs to proactive interventions, they highlight the imperative for firms to adopt a holistic approach to employee well-being.

 

Join us as we uncover the transformative potential of integrating well-being into organisational strategy, reshaping the human resource management paradigm in project-oriented industries. Tune in to Innovation Deciphered for an enlightening dialogue that promises to reshape your understanding of innovation, well-being, and tomorrow's business landscape.

 

#InnovationDeciphered #MindfulInnovation #ProjectSuccess

 

Constructing Innovation: Transforming the Construction Supply Chain with Marc Stchedroff

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Innovation Deciphered," where your host, Brendan Morahan, Director at Invvent, engages in an intriguing conversation with a distinguished guest, Marc Stchedroff.

Marc serves as the CEO at Trade Angel Supplies Ltd and holds the position of Managing Director at The Oxford & London Building Co Ltd (OLBC), focusing on heritage buildings and consultancy within the heritage sector. In this episode, Brendan delves into Marc's remarkable journey, from a physics degree to revolutionising the delivery of Trade & DIY materials.

Marc sheds light on the challenges faced in the construction industry, emphasizing the gaps in technology adoption and communication between construction sites and merchants. The conversation unfolds, revealing Marc's frustration with existing systems and his determination to bridge the innovation gap.

They explore Marc's innovative platform developed in 2012, designed to revolutionise task-oriented management within construction. Marc underlines the importance of integrating technology, behavioural change, and precise stock control to enhance efficiency. As the episode progresses,

Marc introduces his latest venture, a pioneering solution for delivering construction materials within 90 minutes. The focus is on the speed and accuracy of deliveries, addressing the challenges faced by tradesmen in a congested and evolving urban environment.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the intersection of technology, construction, and business transformation, as Marc Stchedroff shares his extraordinary journey on this episode of "Innovation Deciphered."

#InnovationDeciphered #BuildingInnovation