Physical stationing methods like stakes and spray paint have been the standard for decades, but technology is evolving, and digital stationing is changing the game. By eliminating the need for physical markers, digital stationing simplifies workflows, reduces errors, and enhances accessibility for teams in the field. 👷

Although the advantages of digital stationing are evident, adopting new technology within your organization can seem overwhelming, presenting challenges that may cause hesitation before fully committing to the transition. Embracing new technology demands strategic decision-making, from assessing precision to controlling expenses and guaranteeing a smooth rollout. These challenges can hinder progress, even when the future rewards are crystal clear. Let's explore five common challenges you might encounter during the onboarding process and discover effective strategies to address them.

1. Understanding and Trusting Technology

Let's face it, the civil engineering and heavy highways industries are about as modern as a fax machine at a tech convention. Switching from physical to digital stationing is a big change, but it follows the same path as other everyday advancements—just like GPS replaced MapQuest. Physical stationing has been the trusted tool for decades because it works. But stakes can also be misplaced, require setup, and depend on weather conditions. At first, it may seem unfamiliar, but teams adopting digital stationing report smoother workflows and fewer errors. Digital stationing enhances what crews are already doing, providing instant access to stationing data without these risks.

The success of digital stationing depends on key factors such as connectivity, battery life, and screen visibility. Encountering challenges like unreliable internet, screen glare, or limited power supply at job sites can indeed present significant obstacles. However, with thoughtful and strategic planning, these issues can be effectively managed. It is crucial to understand how to adapt when technical limitations occur—whether by utilizing offline capabilities, employing backup power solutions, or implementing alternative workflows. This adaptability ensures that teams can maintain their efficiency in any setting. One of the most pressing concerns is limited Wi-Fi access, but with careful preparation, crews can continue to access the necessary stationing data without interruption.

Many companies have been burned by bad technology in the past. Many believe that a product's success in one sector—such as vertical construction—guarantees its effectiveness across all fields. However, this isn't always true. This skepticism can hinder companies from embracing innovative solutions, particularly if past experiences have left them wary. The key to overcoming this is demonstrating how digital stationing is built specifically for infrastructure projects, addressing past concerns with improved accuracy, usability, and real-world testing. Overcoming hesitation takes time, but as more field teams experience the benefits first-hand, trust in digital stationing continues to grow.

How can you overcome this?

Many crews hesitate to trust digital stationing because they are unfamiliar with how it works in real-world conditions. Organizing on-site demonstrations where field teams can test the technology themselves helps bridge this gap. Let them compare physical stakes with digital stationing side by side, showing how it provides instant, reliable access to stationing data while eliminating common errors like misplaced stakes.
To schedule on-site visit → CLICK HERE
Since teams worry about digital stationing’s reliance on internet access and battery life, companies should proactively provide solutions. Make sure that field crews have access to offline functionality, devices with extended battery life, and backup power sources. Offering these solutions upfront reassures teams that digital stationing won’t leave them stranded without critical data on the job site.

2. Changing Established Workflows

Construction crews rely on well-established workflows using physical stationing methods, trucks, and survey equipment. Traditionally, if a GPS unit isn’t available, workers use station/off-set information on paper plans, locate physical station lathes, and measure distances manually with a measuring wheel—to identify a location. Transitioning to digital stationing requires companies to adopt new software, adjust processes, and train workers, which can create resistance. However, when integrated effectively, digital stationing can streamline tasks like QC/QA and materials testing by digitally recording locations and test results, reducing reliance on paper and minimizing human error.

How can you overcome this?

Instead of an immediate switch, companies can gradually introduce digital stationing while maintaining traditional methods. Crews can start by using digital tools for location verification while continuing to rely on physical stakes as needed. This slower transition allows workers to familiarize themselves with the technology at their own pace, reducing resistance and minimizing workflow disruptions.
Demonstrating measurable improvements—such as time saved in locating stations, reduced rework, or faster reporting—can encourage teams to embrace the change. Companies can track and share these efficiency gains, offering performance-based incentives or recognition for teams that successfully integrate digital stationing into their processes.
To reduce friction, digital stationing should work seamlessly with software and devices crews already use, such as project management platforms, GIS systems, or survey equipment. Demonstrating compatibility and how digital stationing complements—not replaces—current tools can help ease concerns and drive adoption.

3. Perceived Burden and Training

How many times does it take before your dad masters the art of switching the TV source on the remote? We've all been there, suffering through the same remote-control saga.

In the construction industry, there's a widespread misconception that mirrors the suffering of the remote example above. Many professionals worry about “app fatigue” and technology overload of their workers. They are already responsible for building safe and durable roads—adding another software requirement can feel unnecessary. Some leaders hesitate to ask their teams to adopt yet another platform, fearing it will slow them down rather than help them work faster.

One major concern is the perceived administrative burden and training involved. Many teams assume that adopting digital stationing will require extensive effort to learn new software, adjust workflows, and ensure proper implementation. The thought of adding another layer of complexity can make companies hesitant to move forward, as they worry it will take too much time away from their core responsibilities.

The key to overcoming this resistance is providing the right information and quick, effective training materials. Hands-on demonstrations, streamlined onboarding processes, and real-world examples of how digital stationing simplifies—not complicates—daily tasks can help shift perspectives. When teams see firsthand how the technology enhances efficiency and eliminates common frustrations, they are more likely to embrace the change.

How can you overcome this?

Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, tailor training to specific roles within a project. Field crews should focus on using the digital stationing app for navigation and stake replacement, while project managers can learn how it integrates with reporting and documentation. Breaking training into small, relevant sessions reduces overwhelm and makes adoption easier.
(Hint Hint: we are more than happy to help you with this 😉) → CLICK HERE
Long, intensive training sessions can discourage adoption. Providing short, digestible training videos, step-by-step guides, and interactive tutorials allows workers to learn at their own pace. A mobile-friendly knowledge base or in-app help center ensures that users can quickly find answers when they need them in the field.
(Hint Hint: we already have all of these for you below 😉)
OnStation’s Training Series
OnStation’s Knowledge Base
Designate experienced employees or early adopters as the one who can guide their teams through implementation. Having a peer available to answer questions and provide quick troubleshooting reduces the fear of complexity and makes the transition feel more manageable.

4. Decision-Making Challenges and Ownership Uncertainty

One common challenge with adopting digital stationing is the people who would benefit from it the most often feel they lack the authority to implement it. Many field workers and project managers see themselves as the "low guy on the totem pole," and believe they need approval from upper management, the Department of Transportation (DOT), or other stakeholders before they can even try it. This hesitation slows adoption, as potential users feel powerless to advocate for change.

Another major barrier is uncertainty around who should be responsible for purchasing and hosting the solution. Many assume that contractors would benefit the most, yet adoption among smaller contractors and projects remains low. As a result, other stakeholders, such as project owners, feel pressured to take on the cost to ensure its availability. This lack of clarity on ownership increases costs and creates communication gaps, making it difficult to standardize adoption across projects. Without a clear decision-making process and defined responsibility, digital stationing struggles to gain traction industry-wide.

How can you overcome this?

To eliminate confusion over who should purchase and manage the solution, companies can establish standardized guidelines for ownership. Each organization should manage their own group of licenses.
Instead of waiting for top-down approval, companies can initiate small-scale pilot programs to showcase the value of digital stationing. By running trials on specific tasks or smaller projects, teams can collect data on efficiency gains, error reduction, and cost savings. Presenting this evidence to decision-makers helps build a stronger case for broader adoption and clarifies who should take ownership of implementation.
Want to see the numbers for yourself? Calculate your ROI here to find out how digital stationing pays off.

5. Addressing Compatibility and Accuracy Concerns

In a world brimming with digital platforms, the challenge lies in determining if digital stationing can seamlessly mesh with your existing systems. Concerns about precision linger, as some professionals, used to pinpoint rover readings, may wonder if digital stationing's accuracy—within a few feet—truly meets their high standards.

A frequent concern among OnStation users is the OnStation App's precision for measurement-based reporting. However, digital stationing offers accuracy within a few feet, which is typically more than sufficient for most projects. Moreover, it significantly minimizes human errors associated with misplaced stakes or misread rovers, ensuring smoother operations and greater confidence in your data.

The right solution depends on your accuracy needs. Discover the insights in our latest article, “Achieving Higher ROI: Is the Cost of Digital Stationing Justified by Its Precision?” Uncover the potential returns on investment when implementing a digital stationing solution. Dive into the full article by clicking here. -> Read Full Article

How can you overcome this?

Not every tool is meant to replace high-precision measurement instruments. Clearly define digital stationing’s strengths—such as efficient navigation, reduced human error, and quick stake verification—while reinforcing when survey-grade accuracy is still needed. Educating teams on when and how to use the tool appropriately minimizes concerns about precision.
Skeptical teams need to see proof. Conduct side-by-side tests comparing digital stationing data with traditional survey methods and rover readings. Show how often the technology falls within acceptable tolerances for real project needs. Providing tangible data helps build confidence in its reliability.

Moving Forward → with Digital Stationing

The transition to digital stationing isn’t just about replacing stakes—it’s about making construction more efficient, accurate, and adaptable for the future. Companies that adopt digital stationing now will gain a competitive edge, reducing time spent on manual processes and improving field collaboration.

Yes, change comes with challenges, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary hurdles. The industry is moving toward digital solutions, and those who embrace the shift will find themselves ahead of the curve.

If you’re still unsure, the best way to see the value of digital stationing is to try it firsthand.

Teams that embrace digital stationing today aren’t just keeping up with the industry; they’re leading it.📱

Contact us to Learn More!