WORKFLOW AUTOMATION

What Is Workflow Automation in Construction?

Workflow automation in construction means replacing manual, repetitive admin tasks, approvals, document routing, status updates and reporting with systems that run automatically.

Why It Matters for Engineering and Construction Firms

Engineering and construction firms run on paperwork: RFIs, ITPs, NCRs, variations, timesheets and handover packs. When these processes are manual they slow projects down.

LAI Solutions research shows engineering project managers spend an average of 17 hours every week on administrative work that could be automated.

17 Hours

Average admin time per week that can be automated.

How Workflow Automation Works Inside Microsoft 365

Most engineering firms already own Microsoft 365 licences. Using SharePoint, Teams and Power Automate, workflows can be automated without introducing new software.

1

Upload Document

Document uploaded to SharePoint.

2

Automatic Routing

Power Automate routes it to the correct approver.

3

Teams Notification

Approver receives a Teams approval request.

4

Reminder Trigger

Automatic reminders are sent if no action is taken.

5

Register Updated

Outcome is automatically logged in the register.

The LAI Approach

LAI Solutions was founded by Jack Shannon, a mechanical engineer who spent seven years in operations at FMG and Mineral Resources before building automation systems for engineering firms. The work LAI does is shaped by that background, it's built for how construction and engineering businesses actually operate, not adapted from a generic business template.

LAI builds automation inside your existing Microsoft 365 tenant. No new software. No new logins. No IT procurement process. The result is a working system your team can use within weeks, not a twelve-month implementation roadmap.

Client Results

75%

Reduction in Approval Time

SMS Group

70%

Reduction in Project Setup Time

McGill Engineering

80%

Faster Document Turnaround

Advisory by Astrid

Frequently Asked Questions

Workflow automation replaces manual admin tasks with automated systems that manage approvals, routing, reporting and notifications.
Using SharePoint, Teams and Power Automate, workflows are automatically triggered and managed without manual intervention.
Most engineering firms have their first workflow running within 2–4 weeks.
No. LAI builds automation inside the Microsoft 365 environment your firm already uses. There is no new software to purchase, no new platform to log in to, and no data leaving your existing environment. If you have Microsoft 365, you have everything you need.
Common automation candidates include document approvals and sign-offs, NCR and ITP workflows, project setup and folder creation, subcontractor onboarding, timesheet collection, weekly reporting, and handover pack compilation. According to LAI Solutions research, the average engineering project manager can reclaim up to 17 hours per week through targeted automation.

Ready to See What Automation Looks Like?

If you want a straightforward conversation about where automation could make the biggest difference in your business, get in touch today.

Book a Free Discovery Call