Real Estate Revolutionizing Construction: Why the Future Lies in Digital Innovation Despite its size, the construction sector has been remarkably slow in adopting technology. Less than 2% of the industry´s IT budgets are allocated to digital tools, leaving much of its potential untapped. This hesitancy stands in stark contrast to the benefits demonstrated by companies like Kraaft, where improved... 15 Feb 2025 3 min reading Revolutionizing Construction: Why the Future Lies in Digital Innovation The construction industry, one of the largest business sectors globally, has long been resistant to the sweeping digital transformation reshaping other fields. While industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and retail have embraced advanced technologies, construction remains burdened by inefficiencies, miscommunication, and stagnant productivity. This gap not only costs billions annually but also limits the potential for innovation in one of the most critical sectors shaping the modern world. A glimpse into emerging technologies such as Kraaft’s "Super App" for construction management reveals the vast potential for change and serves as a wake-up call for the industry to embrace digital solutions. Kraaft, a Paris-based startup, has become a trailblazer in this space, demonstrating how the right tools can optimize workflows, improve collaboration, and drive profitability. The recent completion of its €13 million Series A funding highlights the growing recognition of the urgent need for modernization in construction. Learning from Global Pioneers The importance of looking beyond borders to understand how digitalization can reshape construction cannot be overstated. Countries like France, Germany, and the UK are increasingly adopting innovative tools like Kraaft´s platform to address chronic inefficiencies in the sector. By observing these advancements, other markets can learn how to break free from outdated practices. Kraaft’s platform, now used by over 1,000 European companies, replaces traditional communication tools like WhatsApp with a centralized solution that integrates project management, safety checks, photo documentation, and real-time updates. Its ability to streamline processes across multiple stakeholders—contractors, subcontractors, and on-site teams—offers a blueprint for how digitalization can transform complex construction projects. The app´s functionality goes beyond convenience, addressing core inefficiencies that plague the sector. For example, the ability to track and manage daily updates in construction plans reduces miscommunication, one of the biggest contributors to cost overruns and delays. Additionally, features like AI-powered workflows and integration with platforms such as Procore promise to elevate construction management to a new level of precision and efficiency. The Digital Divide in Construction Despite its size, the construction sector has been remarkably slow in adopting technology. Less than 2% of the industry´s IT budgets are allocated to digital tools, leaving much of its potential untapped. This hesitancy stands in stark contrast to the benefits demonstrated by companies like Kraaft, where improved traceability and workflow management have led to profit margin increases of up to 15%. For countries looking to modernize their construction sectors, it is imperative to recognize the transformative impact of digital tools. These solutions are not merely about convenience; they represent a fundamental shift in how projects are managed, from planning and execution to safety and compliance. A Call to Action The success of tools like Kraaft underscores the importance of global collaboration and knowledge-sharing. By observing what is happening in other parts of the world, construction leaders can gain valuable insights into the future of the industry. This requires openness to innovation, investment in digital infrastructure, and a willingness to challenge traditional methods. In an era where sustainability, efficiency, and precision are paramount, the construction industry cannot afford to lag behind. The digitalization of construction is not just an opportunity—it is a necessity. Whether through platforms like Kraaft or other emerging technologies, the path forward lies in embracing tools that make construction smarter, safer, and more efficient. For those in the industry, the time to act is now. By learning from global pioneers and integrating cutting-edge solutions, we can build not just better structures but a better future for construction as a whole. Real Estate Share article FacebookXPinterestWhatsAppCopy link Link copiado