Five years of digital offensive in construction
The introduction of the Information System Allianz Bau (ISAB) by a broad alliance of employers' organisations and trade unions has driven digital change on construction sites. Within five years, ISAB has become an important information platform for the enforcement of generally binding collective labour agreements.
Five years ago, in 2019, an alliance of more than a dozen employers’ associations and three trade unions launched the Information System Allianz Bau (ISAB). The aim was to use the results of actual inspections more efficiently and thus ensure compliance with generally binding collective labor agreements (CLAs). What began with information on around 1,000 companies in the main construction industry has now developed into a comprehensive database containing information on over 45,000 companies.
A comprehensive digital working tool
ISAB has established itself as a comprehensive digital working tool through the introduction of the three modules ISAB Portal, ISAB CLA Certificate and ISAB Card. For the first time, cross-industry and cross-regional information is available on which companies are subject to which collective employment agreement, whether they have been inspected and whether any necessary back payments have been made. The use of the ISAB CEA certificate has increased significantly: While 3300 retrievals were recorded in 2019, this figure had risen to over 59,000 by February 2024.
Significance for the Swiss construction industry and politics
ISAB not only plays a central role in the construction industry, but also has a political dimension. It is the most effective instrument for protecting high Swiss wages. In the political debate, particularly in the context of EU negotiations, ISAB sends a strong signal against calls for additional accompanying measures that could burden entrepreneurs.
A successful digital transformation project
The digital offensive launched with ISAB 2019 impressively demonstrates how digital tools can increase efficiency and transparency in the construction industry. With secure information on more than 45,000 companies and the widespread use of ISAB CLA certificates, ISAB has established itself as an indispensable tool that protects the high standard of Swiss wages and ensures compliance with CLAs.