How the pandemic is driving digitalization – and why this makes construction companies more competitive
The coronavirus crisis was an impetus for many construction companies to become more digital. But where to start? Stefan Neumann, Managing Director at 123onsite, explains the opportunities offered by digitalization and why it makes sense to proceed strategically rather than hastily, even during the crisis.
1. corona acts as an accelerator of digitalization
Even though the construction industry has come through the coronavirus crisis relatively unscathed so far, companies are being severely challenged by the pandemic. Hygiene requirements, supply bottlenecks and the temporary lockdown of entire areas are repeatedly jeopardizing their own schedules.
However, the pandemic has also brought long-standing pain points into focus. The crisis has clearly shown that digitalization offers a solution to numerous challenges in the construction industry. Many companies have therefore seized the moment to position themselves better digitally. Corona is acting as an accelerator and promoting a rethink among many construction companies. It is already foreseeable: The future of the construction industry is becoming increasingly digital.
2. many goals of construction companies can also be easily implemented digitally during the coronavirus crisis
Digitized processes are exactly the right solution for many issues in the construction industry. Planning and working completely paperless with an app and software enables construction managers site documentation in real time as well as seamless time recording. Time tracking with digital timesheets – without the usual paperwork. Special construction software such as 123onsite helps on the way to a paperless construction site. It also enables direct communication with employees. It also guarantees a completely new level of quality management and helps save time through defect management. All tasks and defects on the construction sites are clearly documented and can therefore be rectified as quickly as possible.
Also the management of construction equipment and the recording of performance data can also be easily digitized and thus help to optimize billing and capacity utilization. The effect: digitalization increases the business efficiency of construction companies.
3. digitization connects construction site and office – an advantage especially during the Corona period
Probably the biggest advantage of digitalization is the networking of all players. Above all, this supports a better connection between the construction site and the office: the software links the construction site documentation with the corresponding accounting and project management, for example. What site managers previously wrote down by hand and took a lot of time to do can now be done digitally via an app – quickly and intuitively.
And all the data ends up exactly where the accounting department needs it and can access it. This simplifies daily Time tracking enormously. And documentation is also quick and easy when the photo taken with the smartphone is uploaded directly to the corresponding daily construction report. And another advantage: the construction construction company is also legally protectedshould the client make a complaint in the future. Digitalization makes paperwork on the construction site superfluous. Whether it’s job and construction plans, defect and checklists – everything can be easily entered and checked via smartphone or tablet.
4. digitization brings transparency
Digitized processes are not only more efficient, they also create a completely new level of transparency and time savingsEmployees can now access data in real time at any time and from anywhere – whether they are working from home or on site. Digital communication on the construction site means that companies can achieve their construction goals more efficiently with clear announcements. A trip to the office is no longer necessary for every consultation. And the fact that data is transmitted in real time means that colleagues working on the construction site also benefit from digital measures. They benefit directly, for example by processing their pay slips more quickly
5 Those who use the coronavirus crisis as an opportunity will secure a competitive advantage through digitalization
From a business perspective, innovations always aim to make the company more efficient – and thus also increase competitiveness. Innovation therefore also means future-proofing. It therefore makes sense to take a strategic approach and digitize in a way that suits your company. Basic advice and an experienced partner protect against expensive learning costs and uncertainties during implementation.
Picture credits: Milan Radulovic/EyeEm via Getty Images
