Machine Control Online gives an overview of how to work through the initial difficulty curve of transitioning into using 3D modeling in construction.
http://machinecontrolonline.com/chad-cooper-bsce/5232-new-to-machine-control-a-model-start
Constructionshows.com gives a nice little feature writeup on MOBA's XSite 2D/3D Excavator Control Systems.
http://www.constructionshows.com/xsite-excavator-control-systems-right-solution-every-requirement/0914402