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In this three-part series, I sit down with Craig Dunlop, Construction Manager and 51���� Development Manager at Mainbrace Constructions, to dig deeper into why payment practices remain such a widespread challenge — and what might help turn the tide. Here, we look at how uneven tech adoption and inconsistent communication are creating barriers to smooth payment processes — and the practical changes the industry needs to make to pave the way for faster, fairer payments.

As industries worldwide race to explore AI and adopt new technologies, construction can seem stubbornly analogue in critical areas. While many businesses and trade professionals have enthusiastically adopted tech tools, implementation remains uneven across the sector. This inconsistency contributes to one of our industry's most persistent headaches: ensuring transparent and timely payments throughout the supply chain.

In my years working on site and in contract administration, I've often been struck by the gap between what's technically possible and what actually happens on site. This disconnect isn't just about the technology itself, but about how people respond to change. Some jump into it eagerly while others resist or struggle with both the mindset shift and the technical skills required.

In my latest conversation with Mainbrace Constructions Manager Craig Dunlop, we take a look at how this digital divide creates payment obstacles for businesses of all sizes. How can better technology adoption and improved one-to-one communication help overcome these barriers?

We look at what's happening on the ground and find clear communication is a critical piece in construction's ongoing payment puzzle.

When Tradition Meets Tech: It's Not All Plain Sailing for Projects or Payments

"When it comes to communication in construction, I'll give you a relatable example that would sound ridiculous to someone working in a different industry but just makes sense in ours," Craig laughs.

This is just one example that highlights how – unlike in a lot of other industries – using tech tools, even as simple as email, doesn't guarantee 'message received'. 

The onus is often on the construction or project manager to use old school methods to get the help they need. This will no doubt change over time, but for now that's the digitally divided world we're living in. This causes problems both within projects and importantly, with payments.

"When it comes to payments everyone does things differently, and everyone isn’t on the same page with systems or ways of communicating,” Craig says. “Tech isn’t a silver bullet.”

“We all know subcontractors that do quality work on site but off-site don't use the software available that could help them keep track of their cash flow and invoices on time.” 

“As an industry, we need better training, systems and communication if more businesses are to succeed and stay solvent."

Bridging the Gap and Leading by Example, One Conversation at a Time

Craig sees better outcomes when businesses and project teams lead by example.

"At Mainbrace we talk about payments as standard procedure. We make it part of the culture. You've done the work? You need to get paid. Let's make sure the paperwork's done and done right."

This also means helping subcontractors understand the processes, especially those who struggle with basic business finance and admin.

"We actually get that a lot of subcontractors struggle to get up to speed with the pace of change. It can be really tough for people who've been in the industry a long time and have always done things a certain way."

"They might pass their skills as well as their ways of working down to apprentices too, creating another barrier to change. We want to help them see the value for everyone in changing things up. 

"I think people are embracing technology more and understanding their obligations better. It’s a slow burn but it’s happening." Craig says. "If we compare where we were 15 years ago to now, it's totally different. You see site managers walking around with iPads and smart phones – they know how to use them. It's just taking time, and some are more proactive than others."

Looking Ahead: Building Stronger Foundations for Faster, Fairer Payments

It’s important to recognise the realities of industry culture when thinking about how we can realistically improve communication, especially around payments. In construction, where being seen as a "good bloke" still carries so much weight, broaching late payments or outstanding invoices is often awkward – and seen as a risk to relationships.

Mainbrace is setting the standard for this, combining people-first practices with advanced systems and a genuine commitment to looking out for everyone they work with.

Craig shares some top tips for subcontractors who want to better navigate payment processes and systems:

As Craig and I both see it, technology should make life easier and enhance, not replace, the one-of-a-kind relationships and collaboration that construction is built on.

By encouraging both open conversations and smarter use of tech tools designed to reduce paper-shuffling, avoid disputes, and support quicker, smoother payments, we can help build a more financially stable industry for everyone.

Closing the widespread business skills gap needs to be part of the effort as well. And that’s exactly what Craig and I take a look at next.

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