Digitalization is transforming the construction industry, but it also brings challenges in construction. While digital technologies make processes more efficient, many companies face hurdles that hinder rapid implementation. High investment costs, a shortage of skilled workers, and hesitant acceptance of new solutions are among the most common problems.
Many construction companies are asking themselves: Is digitalization worth it despite these challenges? The answer is clear – yes. But the key lies in a well-thought-out strategy that takes technical, economic, and personnel aspects into account.
In this article, we show the challenges companies face and the approaches that can help overcome them successfully.
Why does digitalization bring so many challenges in construction?
Digital solutions such as project management software, digital construction plans, or AI-supported site monitoring offer huge advantages. Nevertheless, many companies still rely on analog processes. The biggest challenges in the transition are:
- High investment costs – Is it really worth it?
- Shortage of skilled workers – Who implements digitalization?
- Hesitant acceptance – Why digital processes often encounter resistance
High investment costs: Why digital solutions seem expensive at first but lower costs in the long run
A common reason why construction companies postpone digitalization is the high initial investments. Especially for small and medium-sized enterprises, the acquisition of software, tablets, or sensors presents a financial hurdle.
📊 According to the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering and Organization (IAO), many construction companies still invest very little in digital solutions – even though they save costs in the long run. (Source: Fraunhofer IAO)
Typical cost traps in digitalization
- License fees for software (e.g., for project management or digital construction plans)
- Hardware acquisition (tablets, sensors, smart machine control)
- Training for employees, to use digital tools effectively
- Integration into existing systems, so that everything runs smoothly
How can costs be minimized?
- Step-by-step implementation: Instead of digitizing everything at once, start with small pilot projects.
- Utilize government funding: Programs like “Go-digital” or KfW funding help with financing.
- Cloud solutions instead of expensive software purchases: Many digital tools can be used as monthly subscriptions – without high acquisition costs.
Shortage of skilled workers: Who implements digitalization?
One of the biggest challenges in construction is that digitalization is only as good as the people who use it. However, this is where the next problem arises: There is a lack of skilled workers with digital know-how.
📊 According to Bitkom Research (2023), there are 149,000 IT positions in Germany unfilled – the highest number ever. Especially in the construction sector, there is a lack of experts who can connect digital solutions with the requirements of the construction site. (Source: Bitkom Research)
How does the shortage of skilled workers affect us?
- Digital solutions are not used efficiently due to a lack of know-how.
- Companies shy away from new technologies because they lack internal IT experts.
- Lack of training leads to employees rejecting new tools.
Solutions for construction companies
- Train employees: Those wanting to transition to digital processes should involve their team early and offer practical training.
- Choose simple, intuitive tools: Complex software is off-putting – solutions like Valoon.Chat focus on ease of use directly via WhatsApp.
- Establish digital champions in the team: Employees with a knack for technology can act as multipliers for digitalization.
Hesitant acceptance: Why digital processes often encounter resistance
In addition to investments and the shortage of skilled workers, there is another big hurdle: Employees who resist digital solutions.
📊 According to a study by the Institute for SME Research (IfM), 40% of employees in traditional industries are skeptical about digital processes. (Source: IfM Bonn)
Typical concerns of employees
- “This takes longer than the old method.”
- “I’m not a tech expert, this is too complicated.”
- “We’ve always done it this way – why should I change anything?”
How can we create acceptance?
- Open communication: Why is digitalization taking place? What benefits do employees have?
- Step-by-step introduction: Small successes show that digital tools make daily work easier.
- Involve employees in the decision-making process: Those allowed to participate in decisions will be more inclined to identify with digital solutions.
Approaches for successful digitalization
To tackle the typical challenges in construction, companies should follow a structured approach :
Step-by-step implementation: Why small steps are more effective than a complete overhaul
Instead of opting for a complete digitalization immediately, companies should start with small projects:
- Initial digitalization measures in a specific area (e.g., digital construction plans or time tracking)
- Gradually extend to additional construction sites or business areas
- Regular success checks and adjustments
📊 Studies show that companies that implement digitalization in phases have significantly higher acceptance within the team and can correct errors more quickly.
Training & development: How companies can build digital competency in their teams
- Practical training directly on the construction site as opposed to theoretical IT courses
- Train digital “champions” who act as multipliers within the team
- Utilize targeted funding programs for digital competence (e.g., the government’s “Go-digital” program)
Adapt to company needs: Find the right solution for your own business
Not every digital solution fits every construction company. Therefore, companies should:
- Take stock of their own processes
- Select solutions that provide real value
- Not be led by trends, but use practical tools
Conclusion: Now is the time to strategically approach digitalization
Digitalization undeniably brings challenges in construction – but it is no longer an optional trend, but a necessity for remaining competitive. Companies that invest early in digital solutions benefit from more efficient workflows, lower error rates, and better communication between the construction site and the office.
High investment costs, shortage of skilled workers, and skepticism towards new technologies are obstacles that can be overcome with the right strategy. A step-by-step implementation, practical training, and adapting digital solutions to specific business needs make the transition easier and ensure a sustainable integration into daily work.
Those who act now secure long-term advantages: construction times will be shortened, resources used more efficiently, and processes made more transparent. Digitalization is not a risk – it is the key to greater efficiency, productivity, and future viability in the construction industry. Now is the right time to take the first step and successfully master the challenges in construction.
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