High-quality data has become an indispensable success factor in real estate organisations. Low-Code platforms offer a flexible, cost-effective solution for automating data-intensive processes and increasing efficiency in property operations.
In the digital era, in which data is considered the ‘new oil’, the efficient handling of the mass of information in property operations is becoming an increasing challenge. While high-quality data is essential for well-founded decisions, many companies struggle with integrating, analysing and using it. A recent study by pom+ Consulting shows that 31 per cent of companies in the construction and property industry either do not use data analytics, i.e. the handling of data, at all or only use it to a limited extent.
Low-Code platforms such as Microsoft's Power Platform offer a promising approach to overcoming these challenges. This is because they make it possible to automate data-intensive processes in property operations flexibly and cost-effectively without requiring extensive programming knowledge. But how exactly can these platforms solve the current problems? Are they really the ultimate answer to the data challenges in the property sector?
We asked Jan Ruffner (Head of Service Unit Data and Analytics at pom+Consulting) how Low-Code platforms can revolutionise Real Estate Operations - and where their limits lie.
«Low-Code applications are a decisive factor in building a data-driven company in the Real estate industry», says Ruffner. «They make it possible to develop customised software solutions quickly and efficiently without the need for in-depth programming knowledge. These platforms can integrate various data sources such as market data, customer information or key financial figures into a centralised, easily accessible IT environment. This enables companies to make well-founded, data-based decisions and optimise their business processes. Another advantage of low-code solutions is the ability to automate routine tasks, such as managing property portfolios or analysing market data. This leads to greater efficiency and reduces the error rate.
Processes or tasks in the Real Estate Industry that can benefit from Low-Code applications
There are several areas in the Real Estate industry that benefit significantly from automation through low-code applications, says Ruffner. A simple example is the development of an app with which a facility manager can assess and document the condition of various components directly on site. «The images and assessments are stored in a database and displayed in a visualisation tool», says Ruffner. «In the best-case scenario, maintenance planning is automatically created for the various components and orders are forwarded directly to the responsible parties».
Is low-code also suitable for more complex applications?
«Absolutely», says Ruffner. «It is also possible to replace more complex programmes with low-code. A typical application example is resource planning and cost management for construction projects. Low-code platforms offer flexible tools for managing such projects. Projects can be recorded in a system and the costs visualised over time and compared with the budget. This allows construction project managers and project leaders to optimally track the progress of their projects and make the necessary adjustments to avoid time and cost overruns».
Even more complex use cases are also possible. «For example, portfolio management software can be developed to plan the space and room occupancy of various properties, track vacancies and map construction projects says Ruffner». «In addition, the status of building components and maintenance work can be monitored. Through the integration of financial controlling systems such as SAP into the low-code portfolio management software, additional data sources can be seamlessly integrated. Low-Code applications can also be used in completely different areas. For example, in human resources, where they can improve personnel planning. At pom+, we have developed a Low-Code application that tracks the utilisation and performance of our consultants. This has helped us to utilise our resources more efficiently and increase productivity».
Disadvantages or challenges
The use of Low-Code platforms is currently limited to less complex software requirements. However, they quickly reach their limits when providing for a large number of users, says Ruffner. For very complex systems, it is therefore necessary to fall back on proven, traditional software development methods.
Strategies to promote the acceptance and use of low-code applications among employees
«I assume that low-code applications will become established in all companies, just like PowerPoint or Excel - it's only a matter of time», says Jan Ruffner. «It is important for companies to take the first step in this direction. An initial project that shows employees the possibilities of these tools can significantly increase acceptance. It is important to make it clear to employees that such applications do not replace them, but rather support them in their work by making it significantly more efficient and contributing to higher quality. Targeted application training and workshops are particularly important here.
Development of Low-Code platforms in the Real Estate industry
The development of low-code platforms in the Real Estate industry has gained considerable momentum in recent years. «Many companies are slowly but surely recognising the benefits of these technologies and are increasingly investing in their implementation», says Jan Ruffner. «Compared to other countries, Switzerland is well positioned. However, there is still a lot of potential for improvement».
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