If you’re involved in the construction industry, you likely know the struggles of dealing with sketchy information and the challenges that come with it. Inefficient management, poor decision-making, cost overruns, delays—and we’re naming just a few. On the sunny side, modern times bring modern solutions, and digital data analytic tools have become an essential segment of the industry. Enters common data environment (CDE).
Going digital in the construction world stretches way beyond the convenience of using the latest gadgets. Common data environment and BIM technologies are transforming the entire landscape to make things as clear and streamlined as possible. And let’s not forget about teamwork: construction projects involve a powerful workforce. Architects, engineers, and builders all need to share information with each other. The frequency of exchange, back and forth, creates an ever-evolving dynamic data landscape as the project goes on, requiring an equally powerful system for organizing all the data available.
In simple (also not overenthusiastic) words, the common data environment is a game-changer. It helps construction jobs run more smoothly and accurately, leading to fewer delays and staying on budget. The question is: how?
We will now dive deep into how a CDE works, what good stuff it brings to the table, and how it's really making a difference in building stuff today.
What is a Common Data Environment (CDE)?
The name refers to a digital, cloud-based platform designed specifically for construction projects. At its core, it’s a giant database that stores all relevant information, making it accessible and handy to all project participants—but that's not all. As a central hub for accumulating, managing, and sharing project data, common data environments are sophisticated ecosystems that allow complex interaction while keeping all necessary details at your fingertips, regardless of physical location.
The market demand behind the common data environment’s existence is pretty clear. Taking predictions by Oxford Economics into account, we can expect the need for effective data management in construction to grow in geometric progression. During the next 15 years, global construction work will grow from US$9.7 trillion in 2022 to US$13.9 trillion in 2037. Expectedly, the market is driven by superpower construction markets China, the US, and India.
But How Exactly Does the CDE Fit Into That Picture?
In the old days, construction projects would easily get tangled up in misunderstandings and mix-ups with paperwork. Even though software solutions have been gradually developed since the mid-20th century, until recently, project managers had to rely on the manual processing of fragmented systems, where the results could easily get off track. The deficiency of comprehensive information sometimes induced such negative outcomes as poor data management followed by problematic, intuition-based decisions.
These time-consuming processes also hindered project success in other ways. Difficulties in accurately predicting and managing budgets and timelines led to cost overruns, inconsistent quality, and expensive delays. Communication gaps among multiple stakeholders were unavoidable, resulting in errors, misunderstandings, and inadequate risk management. And challenges in ensuring compliance with various, ever-changing regulations just added to the pile.
This is where the common data environment excels, taking the role of a superpowered digital meeting room.
CDE in construction is revolutionizing the industry by tackling its core challenges. It streamlines data management, replacing manual and disjointed processes with quick, efficient systems. It also enhances decision-making by providing accurate, real-time data for informed choices, preventing costly mistakes and project delays. Furthermore, it addresses communication gaps, ensures quality control, manages risks effectively, and aids in maintaining regulatory compliance.
The Building Blocks of CDE
According to the ISO 19650 standard, two integral parts of the BIM-based execution of construction projects involve project management and information delivery. Project management comprises all steps necessary to set up a BIM project, from Employer Information Requirements (EIR) to the preparation of the BIM Execution Plan (BEP). Information delivery, on the other hand, is about model creation, which is heavily related to the Common Data Environment (CDE).
Data Integration in CDE
Data integration is a key functionality of common data environments, converging diverse sources and formats into a single, coherent system. This synthesis maintains the continuity and integrity of project data, ensuring that all stakeholders work with the most current and accurate information.
Example:An architect's blueprints combined with an engineer's technical specs make the design plan as a whole more understandable for everyone.
Collaboration Tools in CDE
A common data environment is equipped with a range of collaborative tools designed to facilitate communication and teamwork. These tools enable document sharing, version control, and real-time chat functions, among others, enhancing the cooperative spirit of construction projects.
Example:A builder spots an issue on-site. They immediately share a photo in the CDE, and the architect can promptly respond with revised plans. Managers and supervisors automatically get informed on the changes and what caused them, all at the same time and within the same system.
Data Security and Access Control In CDE
Data security is a critical component of common data environments in an industry where sensitive and confidential information is frequently exchanged. The system addresses this concern by implementing robust access control mechanisms, ensuring only authorized personnel can access selected project data. Such an approach protects sensitive information and fosters a sense of trust among project participants at the same time.
Example: A construction project for a government building with strict security requirements. In the CDE, access to detailed security system plans and confidential contract documents can be restricted to only a few key personnel, such as the lead architect, the project manager, and the government liaison. At the same time, it still allows a broader construction team access to general timelines or material lists.
Practical Applications of CDE
Streamlining Workflows
One of the primary advantages of a common data environment is its ability to streamline project workflows. By creating a unified data management and communication platform, CDEs diminish redundancy and inefficiency, leading to smoother overall execution in return.
This asset is particularly beneficial in large infrastructure projects, such as the construction of highways or bridges, where a common data environment significantly reduces the time spent on data entry and verification. In addition, the streamlined approach saves time and reduces the likelihood of errors.
Key benefit:The centralized approach of CDE in construction allows for a more coordinated and coherent workflow, reducing the time and effort typically associated with data management.
Enhancing Collaboration Through CDE
Common data environments have been instrumental in enhancing collaboration in construction projects. By providing a common platform for information exchange, they enable seamless coordination among diverse project stakeholders.
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This feature offers a notable advantage in constructing high-rise buildings, where architects, engineers, contractors, and clients need simultaneous access to the project's data pool. Real-time collaboration leads to a more dynamic, interactive project environment, where changes and updates are communicated instantly, significantly improving the outcomes.
Key benefit: Improved collaboration leads to a more integrated project approach, where decisions are made efficiently and project goals are achieved more effectively.
Informed Decision-Making via CDE
CDEs enable access to real-time, comprehensive data, which is crucial for informed decision-making. In residential construction projects, for instance, project managers leverage CDEs to monitor progress, resource allocation, and budgetary constraints. The real-time overview enables them to make quick, informed decisions, adjust strategies promptly, and mitigate risks effectively.
Key benefit: Informed decision-making allows project managers and stakeholders to act on the most current and complete information available, leading to more effective administration and better overall outcomes.
Implementing CDE in Construction Sector
While the benefits of a common data environment are clear, its implementation in the construction industry is not free of challenges. Common obstacles include the technological learning curve, resistance from staff accustomed to traditional methods, and the need for integration with existing systems. To successfully implement a CDE, it's essential to address these issues head-on. Discussions at forums like the European BIM Summit have highlighted the importance of standardized implementation methods that can unify the approach. This emphasizes the need for a cohesive strategy to encourage the adoption process in line with the global best practices across the industry.
Overcoming Implementation Challenges
Managing resistance to change is one of the main challenges of implementing CDE in construction. It requires clear communication about the benefits of CDE and how it simplifies tasks, along with highlighting its role in reducing errors and saving time.
Integrating disparate data sources into a common data environment is another common issue. To tackle this, start with a comprehensive audit of existing data and systems. Utilize specialized integration tools or services to streamline this process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Finally, adequate training and support are critical for successful implementation. Offer extensive training sessions and continuous support to ensure all users are comfortable and proficient with the new system.
Best Practices for Data Management in CDE
Effective data management within a CDE involves the quality and accuracy of data, clear governance protocols, and system maintenance that will ensure its ongoing efficacy.
Key practices include:
Regular data audits
Clear documentation of processes
Training all users on best data management practices
Case Studies and Success Stories
The case study conducted in Checz Republic is a comprehensive example of streamlining workflows with a common data environment in construction. It examines the remodeling of the As-Built documentation into the BIM and GIS environment during the railway construction project, specifically focusing on the Šumice railway station.
The key aspects of the study include the transformation of documentation into a BIM/GIS-based common data environment, the challenges and solutions associated with this transition, as well as its benefits. The conversion from CAD to BIM CDE is generally found automatable at about 65%, leaving 35% to human decision-making.
Emphasizing the shift from traditional 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) documentation to a common BIM (Building Information Modeling) or GIS (Geographic Information Systems) data environment, the authors found that the use of documentation was particularly efficient during the operational phase of the construction, including tasks like maintenance planning.
The study acknowledges that current software systems can still have limitations in capturing geometric shapes with absolute accuracy. Despite these challenges, the authors found satisfactory solutions within the existing applications.
Their conclusion is that converting original CAD documentation into BIM significantly streamlines approval processes during construction preparation and execution. The data generated by BIM-managed software was also beneficial for other miscellaneous engineering and administrative purposes.
Future Trends in CDE
The future of common data environment in construction is shaped by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
These technologies promise to enhance the capabilities of CDEs, offering more advanced data analytics, predictive modeling, and automation features. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the role and impact of CDEs in the construction industry are expected to grow, further revolutionizing project management and execution.
Wrapping Up
The common data environment brings compelling digital change to the construction industry. It helps manage data, improve teamwork, and make better decisions, promoting successful outcomes of diverse construction projects.
Companies like Intellectsoft take great pride in delivering sophisticated common data environment solutions, drawing on the broad international expertise in the field. As a dedicated provider of CDE and BIM platforms, Intellectsoft ensures comprehensive support at every phase, from initial planning and discovery stages to ongoing assistance.
FAQ
What is CDE in construction?
CDE in construction refers to a centralized digital platform that manages, stores, and shares project information.
What is the difference between traditional data management methods and using a CDE in construction?
While traditional methods rely on separate, manual data management, a CDE centralizes and digitizes all data available, improving efficiency and cooperation inside the project.
How does a common data environment enhance BIM?
A common data environment provides a platform for BIM data management and collaboration, leading to more accurate and successful project execution.
Can CDEs be integrated with existing project management tools in construction?
Yes, common data environment solutions in construction are designed for compatibility. Integration with existing tools typically involves technical assistance and a well-planned strategy to ensure a successful outcome.
The hospitality industry depends a lot on keeping customers happy, but it’s getting harder to attract and keep them. The pandemic hit this industry hard, and now market competition is tougher than ever, with competitive offerings swaying customers. Hospitality businesses are willing to spend big to win customers back. The main questions for many are: how can we stay ahead of the competition, keep our customers, and increase revenue? Keep reading—we’ve got some answers.
Customers today have so many options that getting their attention is a real challenge. It’s not easy to make them choose your business over others. What worked 10 years ago doesn’t work the same way now. Back then, people often chose businesses based on reputation. But with new types of businesses (boutique hotels, craft cafes) popping up or big enterprises getting a new strategy, expectations have changed. The good news is these businesses have shown what works: great customer service. They focus on personalizing the experience, making things easy for customers, offering loyalty programs, and using smart technology.
In this article, we’ll explore these tech strategies and show you how they can help your business grow, and double the revenue. Keep reading to learn more!
The Importance of Customer Satisfaction in the Hospitality Industry
Customer satisfaction, which equals exceptional customer experience, is the backbone of the hospitality industry. It plays a central role in driving revenue and loyalty, as satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend a hotel, restaurant, or other hospitality business to others. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that a 1% increase in customer satisfaction can lead to a 0.5% increase in revenue. Moreover, loyal customers are more likely to forgive mistakes and continue doing business with a company, even if they experience a negative encounter.
Let's quickly review the challenges the hospitality industry is facing right now so we can move on to the solutions and our case studies.
Challenges in Hospitality
As businesses navigate the changes in the hospitality industry, there are some key areas where a little improvement can go a long way. From improving customer service to embracing digital transformation and tackling labor shortages, we’ll take a closer look at today’s biggest challenges—and, more importantly, how technology can step in to help. Let’s get started!
Poor Customer Service
Even with strong and high-quality business offerings, poor customer service can drive potential customers and existing customers away. Common issues include:
Long wait times in customer service queues (it is worth remembering that our attention spans 8 seconds, and we live in a very busy world, so quick and efficient responses are more important than ever.)
Poorly trained customer service representatives
Lack of follow-up
Services not being done properly or quickly
Recall issues that require multiple service calls
These problems can frustrate customers. But, at Intellectsoft, we believe that the right approach, combined with technology, can address them effectively.
Digital Transformation Gaps
Approximately 50% of hotels are adopting new technologies, with 43% automating repetitive tasks and 39% upgrading existing systems. Source: workstaff.app
While many businesses are adopting digital solutions, some still struggle with outdated systems and fragmented data. Legacy companies often face chaos when trying to manage their data and create new systems or add features.
Some of the recent examples include clients coming to us to create AI solutions for their services while their data simply was not ready for the advanced tasks. We advise stepping back, communicating with a company objective, and working on keeping the data clean (centralized, structured, and segmented).
When we’re asked to create advanced systems using AI, we always emphasize the importance of organized data. To train AI and build such complicated systems that truly work, you need to start from the very beginning—collecting, storing, centralizing, and organizing it. We encourage our clients to align all departments to work internally on the data so we can create a unified digital system that delivers personalized experiences.
If you’re unsure where to start with your data, we can help. Collecting feedback at various touchpoints along the customer journey is crucial for gaining insights into customer satisfaction and loyalty. Book an IT consultation with us, and our experts will guide you in mapping out a path to get more from your data and build a system that works for your business and team.
Reskilling Staff
The pandemic hit hard in early 2020, especially for the hospitality and travel industries. Even five years later, many businesses are still feeling the impact. Recruiting and retaining skilled staff has become a major challenge post-pandemic.
Reskilling to address technology’s impact is of utmost importance, as about 40% of hotel General Managers place it among their top three workforce challenges.
We strongly believe that adopting the right technology can help. For example, creating an app to train your staff not only saves time but also ensures consistency in learning. AI assistants can also work alongside your team, helping with tasks like recruitment (providing industry insights, crafting emails) and staff training. Imagine having an app dedicated to making your team’s work easier and more efficient!
How Technology Tackles These Challenges and Supports a Customer-Centric Hospitality Culture
Automation, AI, and similar technologies may threaten many. However, the debate about replacing humans isn’t about that—it’s about cooperation and working hand in hand with technology to achieve the highest standards and establish brand-new “golden standards.” Technology is here to assist staff in listening to and collecting customer insights from data.
Let’s review some of our cases to see examples of how technology helps improve customer experience and supports customer service.
Examples of Intellectsoft projects
Property management systems (PMS)
We created a web platform and mobile app that makes managing daily tasks easier and offers extra services to improve residents’ experience. It gives a clear overview of daily activities and helps with managing units and users. Residents can easily book amenities, submit service requests, and report incidents. The platform also includes features for equipment management, key instructions, workflows, and custom permissions. This makes it easier for staff to stay on top of equipment and ensure residents have all the information they need. Plus, tools like announcements, quick votes, a forum, and a community calendar help build a connected and engaged community.
Guest Experience Management App
Our next app helped our client improve their guest experience by replacing printed marketing materials and the need for phone calls with a smart solution. Now, guests can easily order in-room dining, make reservations, and interact with staff— through a simple tablet in their room. The solution includes three parts: a custom in-room tablet with a variety of services, an admin panel for hotel staff and service providers, and a backend system that connects everything together. This approach makes things easier for guests and staff, improving both convenience and efficiency.
Existing Customers First: Building Loyalty with Personalized Touchpoints
Keeping existing customers is not just a strategy; it’s well-known that retaining existing customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. In fact, research shows that it costs five times more to acquire a new customer than to retain an existing one. KPMG named customer retention as the number one revenue driver for the company.
Moreover, a 5% increase in customer retention can lead to a 25% to 95% increase in profits, showing the significant impact loyal customers can have on a business’s bottom line. Retention strategies, like personalized experiences and loyalty programs, can foster long-term relationships and generate recurring revenue, ultimately making them an invaluable part of any business model.
Personalization: How Technology Can Help?
Everyone loves to feel special—it’s part of being human. In hospitality, personalization has evolved from being a luxury to an essential standard. With the right technology to manage your data effectively, you can deliver those “wow” moments that guests won’t forget.
More than half of hotel chains are already using personalization features on their websites, booking platforms, and apps, and another 39% are planning to follow suit soon. They’re tailoring experiences to fit guest preferences perfectly.
Source: Deloitte
How does technology make it happen?
CRM Systems: They help you keep track of guest preferences, booking history, and special requests so you can offer services tailored just for them.
Loyalty Programs: Personalized rewards and offers show your guests that you value them, keeping them coming back for more.
AI Personalization: AI analyzes guest data to predict what they’ll love (from room upgrades to local recommendations) before they even ask.
IoT Gadgets: Smart room features like voice-activated assistants, or temperature controls adjust to your guests’ preferences, making their stay more comfortable.
With tech-powered personalization, you’re building loyalty and maximizing the lifetime value of every customer.
Our Case Study: Smart Hotel Management & Loyalty Program
For one of our clients, we created a smart room solution, complete with a custom IoT system. Guests can use a mobile app to control services, explore amenities, and find resort information-- with a special touch to their suite type. For the client’s entertainment business, we improved their legacy software by running a full IT and code check, fixing issues, and making the system better for customers.
Along with that, we developed a mobile app for the loyalty program, allowing businesses to effortlessly reward their customers and keep them engaged with exclusive benefits.
Our solutions not only helped the client with special experiences for guests; it also improved operations, cutting costs by eliminating inefficiencies. Here's what our experts shared:
"We transitioned away from ESB (Enterprise Service Bus) systems, which previously cost millions, and replaced them with more efficient, self-managed solutions. Similarly, we’ve implemented Device Farms that improved operations and saved resources."
Leveraging Software to Increase Upsell Opportunities
Here are some examples of tech tactics that will help your team sell more and introduce new offerings to existing customers, improve overall efficiency leaving your team grateful:
Dynamic Pricing Algorithms
For finance and marketing teams, manually calculating pricing by segment to introduce your clients can be incredibly challenging. AI-powered tools can strongly optimize these strategies by analyzing your database in detail.
Upselling via Apps
Boosting revenue in the hospitality business often comes down to personalized experiences. Imagine this: a guest books a room, and then your app suggests a spa package or a room upgrade at just the right moment. Later, it nudges them to book a dinner reservation or a guided tour designed to their preferences. With apps offering these personalized recommendations during and after bookings, you’re not just increasing your revenue per guest but also skyrocketing their experience. And you do it in a sustainable way, not by speculating, but by offering what your customers desire based on their previous experiences. It’s a win-win: seamless, helpful, and far from pushy.
Inventory and Resource Management Software
Making every resource count in your hospitality business is key. Inventory and resource management software allows you to effortlessly track everything from linens to room availability, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Having real-time insights to reduce overstock, avoid shortages, and optimize operations assists sustainably keep everything under control and know what you need to focus more. It helps maximize room occupancy by aligning bookings with available resources, ensuring every room and item is used effectively. This approach leads to smarter management, better guest experiences, and a noticeable boost to your bottom line.
Adopting these strategies not only optimizes your operations but also drives business growth. Ready to discover how technology can elevate your goals? We’re here to create a tailored solution for you.
Steps For Implementing a Customer Service Technology Solution
Improving customer service in hospitality doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right technology, you can smooth the path of your operations, speed up response times, and elevate the overall guest experience. Here’s where you can make it happen:
1. Understand Your Needs
Start by identifying the challenges your business is facing. Are you struggling to manage high volumes of inquiries, track customer feedback, or personalize the guest experience? Pinpointing your needs will guide you to the best solutions.
2. Pick the Right Tools
Choose technology that aligns with your goals. Look for solutions that are scalable, easy to use, and integrate effortlessly with your current systems. Options like CRM software, live chat tools, or a guest experience app can make a difference.
3. Equip Your Team
Technology is only as effective as the people using it. Train your staff to make the most of the new tools, so they can deliver exceptional service and resolve issues quickly. Confident, well-equipped staff creates happy, loyal customers.
4. Keep Improving
Once implemented, monitor how well the solution works. Are response times improving? Are customers more satisfied? Regular evaluations will help you fine-tune your approach and keep things running harmoniously.
Some Tech Ideas for Hospitality Businesses
CRM Software: Manage customer interactions and preferences.
Guest Experience Apps: Delight guests with personalized experiences right at their fingertips.
Amenity Management Systems: Simplify operations for everything from room service to facility bookings.
Live Chat Tools: Offer instant support and answers.
Social Media Management Tools: Keep customer interactions engaging and organized.
Integrating these strategies will not only improve your customer service but also deliver unforgettable customer satisfaction, loyalty, and, ultimately, your bottom line. Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with our experts.
Conclusion
To wrap up everything we've discussed, customer satisfaction and experience are at the heart of hospitality. Retaining customers is more than just keeping them around—building strong, long-lasting relationships and consistently meeting their evolving needs. By understanding their pain points and offering personalized solutions, you can inspire loyalty and drive progress. With the right technology and continuous improvement, your business can stay ahead, let go of what no longer serves you, and keep growing.
At Intellectsoft, with over 17 years of experience in software development, our expert team is ready to help. We create everything from mobile apps to full-fledged portals and systems, leveraging the latest technologies like AI, Cloud, and Machine Learning. With deep experience in the hospitality industry, we’re here to craft personalized solutions that bring your business unforgettable customer experience and retain your valuable clients.
Ready to double your revenue and level up your customer retention strategy with personalized technology? Contact our experts, and we look forward to working hand in hand with you to build or revitalize the perfect app or system for you.
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