How Digitization Is Streamlining Construction Procurement | April Moss

The conversation with April Moss, CEO of DigiBuild, and Colton, highlighted the transformative role of digitization in the construction industry. Here's a breakdown of the key points discussed:

Digitization in Construction:

• The construction industry traditionally relied heavily on paper, with each project generating hundreds of thousands of documents. DigiBuild’s platform helps streamline this by digitizing procurement processes, reducing paperwork, and offering an efficient solution for material procurement using the largest supplier database globally.

• Their software also integrates advanced technologies like AI, ChatGPT, and blockchain for secure, automated procurement, which saves time and reduces administrative costs.

Benefits of Digitization:

• Besides procurement, digitization can impact other aspects of construction, such as project planning, collaboration, and risk management.

• The focus on procurement aims to eliminate manual processes, like sending emails and making phone calls, for material bids. It also enhances efficiency by connecting users directly to suppliers worldwide.

Impact of COVID-19:

• Prior to COVID, there was already a push for adopting technology to improve margins and streamline processes. The pandemic intensified this need as margins tightened and labor shortages worsened. As a result, construction companies increasingly looked to technology solutions to manage these challenges.

Sustainability in Construction:

• DigiBuild’s platform promotes sustainability by offering access to a database of sustainable suppliers. This makes it easier for construction companies to source environmentally friendly materials. The software helps suppliers who may not be marketing themselves, providing them with tools to promote their sustainable products.

Cost Savings and Efficiency:

• The software offers better pricing and quicker lead times through an integrated platform, helping companies make more informed decisions. In commercial construction, sustainability not only meets environmental goals but also ensures long-term building health and efficiency, a key consideration for large developers.

Mental Health in Construction:

• April shared a personal story about her father’s struggles in the construction industry, especially during winter months when work was scarce. This led to mental health challenges, a common issue in the industry due to unstable employment and difficult working conditions. DigiBuild’s platform aims to provide more consistent access to projects, improving mental health by reducing the cyclical nature of construction work.

Overall, DigiBuild’s software is focused on making the construction process more efficient, sustainable, and supportive of workers’ well-being, aligning with broader trends in the industry toward digitization and sustainability.

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