“The triumphant advance of digitization is changing the economy and society. Germany as a location is really poorly prepared for this.” – Gisbert Rühl, steel manager and mastermind of digitalisation in German industry.
Having shared similar experiences mentioned in his insightful interview, I can also confirm that the German construction industry is far behind other industries when it comes to digitalisation. Compared to companies in the USA and Asia, the distance is even greater.
Back in the old days, my first taste of digitalisation was when I started using a Comodore C 64, a computer model that today’s generation may not be familiar with. Afterwards, I switched to an Atari. That was before the world of powerful computers and mobile phones moved in.
Which reminds me, I still have my first few mobile phones with me. I have so many old devices, I probably need my own bag or wheelbarrow to store them.
But brief nostalgia aside, we were always amenable to the latest technologies – even during previous times. Which makes me wonder: how did Germany lose its touch with technology?
A Country Full of Potential
It’s hard to imagine that Germany would fall into this state, especially since we have a showcase company with SAP. Plus, we’re the growing epicentre of window construction software, with remarkable household names like Kläs, 3E, Cantor and other relevant companies.
A huge portion of leading window construction programmes originated and were developed in Germany. I’m confident everyone can name other innovative companies from the IT sector that are in this area as well.
If we dig deeper, there are actually more than enough offers for cost-friendly and effective digitalisation in Germany. Adding social media activities, conductive websites, shop functions, and the integration of AI, VR, and AR into the mix, Germany has more than enough potential to boost its digital landscape.
Related Article: How Technology Benefits Window Construction Companies
Turning Potential Into Reality
After realising much of our digital potential, let’s move onto the next question: how much more interactivity and involvement of potential prospects and customers could be realised?
The term “customer journey” is used to describe the process in which a customer is iteratively guided to purchase an incentive. Decisions for products and services today begin in the early phase of customer contact. Traditional sales then have further tasks to perform afterwards.
Another issue to focus on is the minimum level of interest and knowledge for the possibilities. There is also a lack of willingness to take risks and try something out.
Many companies do not invest in the right advice or training for the staff and instead rely on methods they’ve tried in the past. This only creates more isolated solutions because the overview is lacking.
This then appears even less effective compared to the state before, but it already ties up resources that these systems have to manage. This means higher expenses and no improvement or even a worsening of the initial situation.
Taking the Next Step with Digitalisation
Let’s use this case study as an example.
A company wants to have a CRM system, which is a good step in digitalisation. However, the same company does not have any future plans to integrate its system to an ERP, CMS, FSM, window construction programmes, or other collaboration software.
While the company’s initial decision may be fine at first, it may prove to be a burden in the long run. By the time said company wishes to upgrade their system later on, they will notice that they have reached their restrictions, and most probably, will need to fork out a lot of money for their upgrades.
Related Article: Reasons to Use CRM in the Building Materials Industry
Reach Out to the Right Partner
To avoid these kinds of situations, we encourage fellow newcomers to digitalisation to engage with a suitable software partner. These firms will give you a good picture of what steps you’ll need to take to incorporate digital tools into your enterprise.
We recommend reaching out to our independent Software-Advisory department. Receive the right software package recommendations with added value, and get access to a network of more than 100 licensed software partners to start your implementation journey.
However, if you’re keen on integrating software but don’t have the basic infrastructure to start with, KVP-Solution is the right partner for you. Our consultants can help design your general IT landscape before you move onto the next phase of digital transformation.
Reach out to us to unlock your digital potential.
Read our previous blog: Lead Generation: A Simple Guide for Beginners