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Fab-Form products represent a paradigm shift in the concrete construction industry.

'Paradigm shifting technology' is a dramatically 'different' way of construction, a 'new' way that replaces the existing methodology. The term 'paradigm shift' was created in 1962 by Thomas Kuhn who proposed a theory wherein scientific revolutions "violently" replace existing paradigms.

In construction similar paradigm shifts occur that dramatically upset existing construction methods.

Historically, paradigm shifting products in construction take up to 80 years to achieve market penetration. The reasons for this are:

• Communication with the contractor is difficult as he works outside with little contact with his supplier and no contact with the manufacturer;

• Training is often done in the field, with minimal opportunity to learn new technologies;

• Fewer opportunities to network and keep up to date with technology;

• Contractor focus is on implementing existing methods as efficiently as possible, not experimenting with new technology;

• Contractor focus is on minimizing risk - hence an aversion to new technology;

• Contractor may perceive new technology as a threat, and lobby against it. There are many examples:

  • gypsum wall board - the plasterers' campaign of "knock on the wall - if it's hollow; it's inferior";

  • plastic pipe - plumbing unions refused to install plastic.

To better understand paradigm shifts in construction, consider the following examples:

Each of these paradigm shifts went through an "awareness period" followed by a "conversion period". Click here for details on each paradigm shift.