The problem: Unstructured communication costs real money
On German construction sites, millions are lost each year due to poor communication. A study by Bauinfoconsult shows that alongside planning errors, communication deficiencies are among the main causes of costly construction mistakes. Information is lost in countless WhatsApp groups or inadequately documented over the phone. This lack of structure leads to errors that can cost an average of 5-10% of the construction sum. A central communication platform for the construction site prevents these costly misunderstandings. This lays the foundation for more efficient project execution.
The solution: A central app for all cases
A specialized communication trades app replaces the confusing mixture of messengers, emails, and calls. All project-relevant information, photos, and documents are consolidated in one central location. This not only saves up to 60 minutes of search time per employee per day but also increases transparency. According to a study from the University of Hohenheim, 72% of project managers consider professional communication to be a critical success factor in construction projects. With central consolidation, the office and construction site are always on the same information level. This creates a reliable data basis for all further steps. The team communication via app becomes the engine of the project.
Legal certainty in focus: GDPR-compliant construction documentation
Using WhatsApp for business communication on the construction site poses a significant data protection risk. Personal data is often processed without the necessary legal basis, which can lead to hefty fines. A professional trades app operates 100% GDPR-compliant and stores all data on secure servers in Germany. This is the foundation for legally secure construction documentation. Important features include:
- Comprehensive documentation: Every message, every photo, and every decision are stored unalterably with a timestamp.
- Evidence preservation: In case of disputes, you have a complete and traceable documentation chain at hand.
- Access control: You control exactly which employee or subcontractor can see which information.
- Data protection: The app meets all GDPR requirements and protects the data of your customers and employees.
The automatic storage protects your company against liability risks. With such a digital solution, communication beyond WhatsApp not only becomes safer but also simpler. Increase efficiency: Save time on routine tasks
Effizienz steigern: Zeit sparen bei Routineaufgaben
Administrative efforts consume valuable time that is lacking on the construction site. A good communication trades app automates many of these processes. The digital recording of working hours, the creation of daily construction reports with one click, and photo documentation with automatic assignment to the construction project reduce manual effort by up to 70%. Instead of sorting papers in the evening, all information is already digitally recorded and available in the office. This time saving allows construction managers to focus on their core tasks. Die Digital tools for tradespeople are thus a direct lever for increased productivity.
Overcoming hurdles: Employee acceptance and language barriers
The best software is useless if employees do not accept it. Many apps are too complex and require extensive training. Therefore, Valoon relies on a solution that is directly integrated into WhatsApp – a tool that 95% of employees already use daily. No new app installation is needed on the construction site. Another advantage is the integrated live translation. It immediately overcomes language barriers in international teams and reduces errors caused by misunderstandings. The easy operation without training effort ensures acceptance across the entire team. This makes the communication in trades accessible and simple for everyone.
Conclusion: Your advantage with a specialized communication app
The transition from unstructured channels to a central communication trades app is not a luxury, but a strategic necessity. You minimize risks through legally secure documentation that stands up to all judicial reviews. You increase efficiency through automated processes and save valuable working time daily. And you ensure clear conditions, as all project participants are always on the same information level. Valoon offers you a solution that works without training effort and is immediately accepted by your employees. Book your free demo now and experience the difference.
More Links
Central Association of German Crafts (ZDH) describes how the trades in Germany are becoming more digital.
Statista contains a survey evaluating the digitalization by craft businesses in Germany.
Fraunhofer IESE offers a publication on digitalization in the construction industry.
PwC analyzes the pressure on the construction industry.
Central Association of German Construction Industry (ZDB) provides a position paper on digitalization.
Engineer.de reports how lack of communication on construction sites causes millions in damages.
Chamber of Crafts Dortmund (HWK Dortmund) describes a seminar on legally secure construction documentation.
Craft is becoming digital explains the benefits of digitalization for the trades.
FAQ
Is a communication trades app complicated to implement?
No, modern solutions like Valoon are extremely easy to implement. Since employees on the construction site can continue to use WhatsApp, no training effort is required. Only the employees in the office use the web application for control and documentation.
What costs are associated with a trades app?
With Valoon, the use for employees on the construction site is completely free. Costs are only incurred for the licenses of the users in the office managing the projects. This model lowers the entry barrier and promotes quick acceptance within the company.
Does the app work without an internet connection?
Yes, many good trades apps offer an offline mode. This allows employees on the construction site to continue working even without a stable internet connection. Once a connection is restored, the data is automatically synchronized.
Can external partners such as subcontractors be included?
Yes, with Valoon you can easily and project-specifically include subcontractors and other external partners in the communication. They do not require a license and can also communicate through WhatsApp, while all data is documented centrally and securely.
How is data security ensured?
Professional providers like Valoon ensure data security through complete GDPR compliance, storage of all data on servers in Germany, and secure encryption of all communication.
What is the biggest advantage over WhatsApp?
The biggest advantage is the combination of simplicity and legal certainty. While employees use their familiar app, all information is automatically, structured, and legally documented per project in the background. WhatsApp cannot provide that.