Digitalisation in the construction industry low investment, big impact
Moritz Lüscher, Head of Digitalisation at the Swiss Federation of Master Builders, explains in an interview how construction SMEs can benefit from digitalisation and thus increase sustainability and efficiency without the need for major investments.
The construction industry is increasingly facing the challenge of making its processes sustainable and efficient. According to Moritz Lüscher, digitalisation plays a key role in achieving these goals. By optimising construction processes with digital tools, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also strengthen their competitiveness without having to invest in large purchases.
Digitalisation is increasingly influencing the awarding of construction contracts, with sustainability and digitalisation skills coming to the fore. SBV supports its members in harmonising the requirements of clients with their own skills and thus effectively implementing the digital transformation.
The trend towards a sharing economy also offers new opportunities in the construction industry. Construction companies can efficiently share machinery and equipment, thereby saving costs and resources. Digital platforms, such as Faroo, make it easier to rent and hire construction equipment and promote the shared use of resources.
In order to approach digitalisation strategically, it is crucial for construction companies to determine their level of digital maturity and develop a suitable strategy based on this. SBC supports this with personalised advice and tools for self-assessment and strategy development. The aim is to achieve a customised digital transformation, which can range from pure process automation to comprehensive digital master plans.
Finally, the involvement of employees in the digital transformation process is of central importance. Promoting digital skills and creating a common understanding are essential in order to utilise the new technologies effectively and secure the company’s long-term success. Digitalisation in the construction industry will continue to gain in importance in the coming years. New technologies and requirements, such as AI and BIM, will drive the industry forward and model-based construction could become the new standard in ten years’ time. The SBC is endeavouring to prepare its members for this future and accompany them on the path to digital transformation.