How technology shapes us : Getting the best from technology and the human brain in the changing world of CRE

We live in a time where all aspects of our lives are increasingly driven and shaped by technology, and nowhere is this more apparent than in our professions and workplaces. In the CRE world, as in others, technology changes the way people communicate, collaborate and innovate through enhanced connectivity, flexibility, data collection/use and reach. In this sector more than many, however, technology can also lessen these things if not used appropriately and create unanticipated new problems. It also further blurs the boundaries between work and home life, affecting the way people relax, sleep and interact with their partners and family. Technology is neutral! So how can you use and manage it to ensure that you and others are equipped to deal with technologisation of such things as service delivery, marketing, speed and transparency of data, mobile work, smart buildings/cities and virtuality (collaboration, selling)? What should the CEO or manager consider when choosing technologies to improve productivity and aid communication in the workplace? And what about clients? CRE is, and will remain, a people business, so how can technology assist in balancing the conflicting client demands of wanting instant data, good quality information and personal service, and when is face-to-face and/or direct communication the best solution? To help answer these questions, this paper explores how people shape each other, how technology shapes us, how technologisation has changed the CRE sector and client expectations, and ways in which the CRE professional can add value now.