On August 8th, 2024, Payapps had the privilege of presenting to the next generation of quantity surveyors at Massey University in Auckland. Andrew Waller, Business Development Manager for Payapps in New Zealand, delivered an engaging lecture to third and fourth-year undergraduate students, many of whom are already professionals in the field. This session was not just an introduction to Payapps but a broader discussion on the evolving role of technology in the construction industry, specifically focusing on how Payapps can simplify critical processes and ensure compliance with New Zealand’s Construction Contracts Act (CCA) and Retention Act.
The Growing Importance of Technology in Construction
Andrew’s presentation underscored the significant shift the construction industry is undergoing due to technological advancements. While the sector has traditionally been slow to adopt new technologies, the pressures of modern project management demand a move away from manual, paper-based systems. As highlighted in Payapps’ “Building the Future” report, 46% of industry professionals spend more than six hours per week on manual administrative tasks, and 26% still manage payment claims with spreadsheets and other manual tools. This inefficiency hampers productivity and increases the risk of errors and disputes—issues that can have severe financial and reputational consequences.
Andrew emphasised that speaking to leaders and professionals managing today’s construction projects requires more than traditional management methods. They need integrated digital solutions that provide real-time insights, streamline processes, and improve stakeholder collaboration. This is where Payapps comes in, offering a platform designed to make the management of payment claims not only simpler but more transparent and compliant with industry regulations.
How Payapps Simplifies Compliance in New Zealand
One of the key areas of focus during the presentation was how Payapps supports compliance with the CCA and Retention Act in New Zealand. Andrew explained that with the increasing complexity of these regulations, particularly regarding retentions, quantity surveyors must have tools to ensure all requirements are met without added administrative burden. Payapps offers features such as retention fund tracking and detailed reporting, which help companies avoid non-compliance risks, including financial penalties and project delays.
Why Technology Adoptions is Key for Future Quantity Surveyors
Reflecting on the day, Andrew shared,
“Engaging with such a bright group of future industry leaders was inspiring. The students at Massey University are eager to understand how technology can simplify their work and drive the industry forward. Payapps is proud to play a role in this educational journey, helping to bridge the gap between traditional practices and modern digital solutions.”
He added,
“Supporting educational institutions like Massey University is crucial for us at Payapps. We believe that investing in the next generation can contribute to a more efficient, innovative, and compliant construction industry.”
The shift from manual processes to specialised construction technology is not just an option but a necessity for New Zealand construction businesses aiming to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. By embracing tools like Payapps, companies can improve collaboration, ensure compliance, and significantly enhance project outcomes. As Scott Lockwood succinctly puts it,
“Embracing technology is not just about staying current; it’s about paving the way for a more efficient and collaborative future in construction.”
The presentation also touched on the importance of young professionals advocating for technological adoption within their organisations. With Payapps research indicating that 69% of industry respondents are open to new technologies to help them do their jobs more efficiently, there is a clear opportunity for the next generation to lead this digital transformation. By embracing tools like Payapps, quantity surveyors can reduce the time spent on administrative tasks, minimise errors, and ultimately enhance the quality and efficiency of their projects.
Payapps Supporting the Future of Construction
The session at Massey University was not just about showcasing Payapps but about inspiring the next generation of construction professionals to embrace the tools that will define the industry’s future. As the construction sector continues to evolve, the integration of technology like Payapps will be essential for ensuring project success and compliance with industry standards.
For those interested in learning more about how Payapps can revolutionise your project management processes, visit our website or download our latest report for deeper insights into the future of construction technology.
