Kapitol: ESG at the Core of Every Project
Kapitol embeds ESG in every project, from carbon reduction and ethical procurement to transparent governance, creating lasting value for clients and communities.
Written by Luke Wade – Operations Manager, Kapitol.
I recently had the opportunity to visit DPR Construction in the USA along with our company Directors, David Caputo and Andrew Deveson, and our Head of HSQ & ESG, Amanda Clements. This trip was a chance to learn from one of the most innovative commercial construction companies in the USA; a company that is aligned with Kapitol’s vision to ‘build the best buildings, do no harm, and improve the construction industry for a better life’. In this piece, I’ll share insights from our journey and explore why embracing change and innovation also means taking the time to learn from the best in the industry.
Our journey to DPR was inspired by our collaboration with Marton Marosszeky, a consultant in lean planning and an expert in the durability of construction materials. Marton introduced us to DPR’s approach to quality, described in a paper he co-wrote with the DPR quality team titled “A Systems Approach to Quality.” This case study showcased DPR’s impressive results when applying quality as a system, significantly improving all project outcomes. Intrigued by these findings, we decided we wanted to know more about DPR’s processes and culture.
Our initial goal was to understand how DPR’s innovative and integrated quality system works. However, during our discussions, we also discovered that our vision and values were closely aligned. DPR’s vision to “build great things” resonated deeply with our mission to improve the construction industry. This alignment laid the groundwork for a meaningful exchange of ideas and practices.
Our trip spanned various DPR offices and project sites, from Santa Clara to Phoenix and Connecticut. What struck us the most was the consistency in DPR’s culture across all locations. Everyone we met was passionate about their work, spoke highly of their colleagues, and demonstrated a strong sense of respect and camaraderie. This cohesive culture, rooted in the founders’ vision, was a powerful reminder of the importance of establishing and nurturing a strong organisational culture internally and across the supply chain.
One of the most profound takeaways from our trip was the emphasis DPR places on meticulous planning. Initially, we sought to learn about their quality system but ended up being intrigued by their planning processes as well. DPR’s approach to planning is both comprehensive and flexible, described as ‘freedom within a framework’. This methodology allows for tailored solutions that best suit each project while maintaining consistent quality and efficiency.
DPR’s detailed planning includes the full integration of VDC (Virtual Design Construction) into their projects, a journey that we also have embarked on. Their ability to plan in detail allows for significant prefabrication in many areas of construction, enhancing efficiency and reducing on-site challenges. The level of detail in the prefabrication was truly impressive, for example all metal studs being delivered to site are precut to length to reduce waste and increase install efficiency. This integration of planning and technology is a model we are eager to enhance and adapt within Kapitol.
Our visit to DPR was a transformative experience. It highlighted the importance of learning from global leaders to bring innovative practices back to our local context. As leaders in the Australian construction industry, we must be open to new ideas and approaches that can drive productivity, safety, and quality improvements. By embracing meticulous planning, fostering a strong organisational culture, and integrating advanced technologies, we can revolutionise our industry for a better future.
I encourage my peers to seek inspiration beyond our shores and to be bold in implementing changes that can elevate our industry. Together, we can build a construction landscape that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of tomorrow.
I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences. Let’s continue this conversation and work collectively towards a more innovative and productive construction industry.
Luke Wade, Operations ManagerBy embracing meticulous planning, fostering a strong organisational culture, and integrating advanced technologies, we can revolutionise our industry for a better future.
