The Australian construction industry is facing a perfect storm: a surge in demand coupled with a crippling labour shortage. In this high-pressure environment, new research from Payapps reveals a staggering statistic: Aussie construction firms are spending three times more hours each week on repetitive administrative tasks than their counterparts who have embraced digital solutions. That’s over 10 hours lost to paperwork and manual processes, time that could be better spent on core business activities.
The Toll of Manual Processes: More Than Just Time
The “Building the Future” report, based on a global survey of over 1,000 construction professionals, paints a stark picture of the challenges facing the industry. While the labour shortage is a significant concern, the report highlights how outdated manual processes are exacerbating the issue:
- Lost productivity: Hours spent on admin are not spent on construction, delaying projects and impacting profitability.
A study by McKinsey found that the construction industry is one of the digitised, lagging behind other sectors in productivity growth. - Increased errors: Manual data entry and calculations are prone to mistakes, leading to costly rework and disputes. A MarketWatch article highlights that a staggering 88% of all spreadsheets contain errors.
- Strained workforce: Repetitive, low-value tasks can lead to job dissatisfaction and burnout, making it harder to attract and retain skilled workers. A Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) survey found that a lack of career progression and development opportunities are key reasons why people leave the construction industry.
The Payapps Advantage: Building a Better Way
The good news is that there is a solution. The report demonstrates that specialised construction software, like Payapps, can significantly reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, freeing up valuable resources and boosting overall efficiency.
Payapps co-founder Geoff Tarrant emphasises that “embracing technology is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for survival and growth.” By automating critical processes such as progress payment claims, Payapps allows companies to:
- Streamline operations: Eliminate manual data entry, reduce paperwork, and accelerate payment cycles.
- Improve accuracy, minimise errors, and ensure compliance with complex contract requirements.
- Enhance collaboration: Enable seamless communication between all project stakeholders.
The Proof is in the Results
The report also found that companies using Payapps are 61% more likely to report positive impacts on their business, including improved cash flow, reduced errors, and fewer disputes. This data underscores the tangible benefits of digital transformation in the construction industry.
The Time for Change is Now
The labour shortage isn’t going away anytime soon. To thrive in this challenging landscape, Australian construction firms must embrace technology that can streamline operations and empower their workforce. The “Building the Future” report serves as a wake-up call, urging companies to break free from outdated practices and embrace the digital age.
Take the Next Step
Ready to break the cycle and build a better future for your construction business? Download the complete “Building the Future” report today and discover how Payapps can help you thrive in the face of unprecedented challenges.
