RIB Software places a strong emphasis on research, design, and innovation to stay at the forefront of the industry

A growing number of users in India and across the world have profited from using two leading software products Candy and Buildsmart, as an integrated cost management solution. In an exclusive interview to CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES, LALU VARGHESE, MD, LALS SOFTWARE SERVICES, RIB authorised & exclusive distributor for India gives an overview on the CPM software industry, role played by his company’s software solutions in bringing time cost and time overruns in projects.

Your views on how Digitization and Digital Transformation are Revolutionizing the Construction Industry.

Digitization and digital transformation are revolutionizing the construction industry by streamlining processes, improving collaboration, enhancing productivity, and reducing costs. Technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning are being increasingly adopted to optimize construction workflows, improve project management, and enhance decision-making processes.

Briefly give us an overview of the CONSTRUCTION & PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE industry, the latest trends and the business drivers?

The construction and project management software industry is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing demand for efficiency, productivity, and transparency in construction projects. Some latest trends include the adoption of BIM, mobile applications for on-site management, AI for predictive analytics, and cloud-based collaboration platforms. Key business drivers include the need for cost reduction, project timeline optimization, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance.

Tell us about the solutions and services offered by your firm in the Construction and Project Management space? Brief us about software solution, its applicability to various sectors of construction and infrastructure. 

RIB Software offers advanced software solutions for construction and project management, including RIB Candy and RIB BuildSmart. RIB Candy is a comprehensive solution tailored for project management, offering functionalities such as project planning, scheduling, cost estimation, and resource management. RIB BuildSmart, on the other hand, is designed to optimize construction processes, covering aspects like procurement, subcontractor management, financial control, and reporting. These solutions cater to various sectors of construction and infrastructure, including residential, commercial, industrial, and civil engineering projects.

Does your company offer any specific software for small contractors, kindly elaborate.

Yes, RIB Software offers tailored solutions for small contractors to meet their specific needs. These solutions typically include simplified versions of its main software products, focusing on essential functionalities such as project planning, cost estimation, and scheduling, while being more cost-effective and user-friendly for smaller businesses.

What are the USP’s of your products Vis-à-vis competition

RIB Software’s products, RIB Candy and RIB BuildSmart, differentiate themselves from the competition by offering comprehensive functionalities tailored to the specific needs of construction and project management. RIB Candy provides a user-friendly interface and robust project management capabilities, while RIB BuildSmart excels in optimizing construction processes and financial control. Both solutions emphasize integration, collaboration, and interoperability with other industry-standard tools, enhancing project efficiency and transparency.

Are you launching any new products and their advantages?

RIB Software continues to innovate and launch new products, such as enhancements to RIB Candy and RIB BuildSmart, to meet evolving industry needs. These advancements may include improved BI Analytic capabilities, mobile applications for on-site management, and cloud-based collaboration platforms, offering advantages such as real-time data insights, improved decision-making, and enhanced project transparency.

Which are the important projects with which your software has been associated with. Tell us of the role played by your software in bringing time cost and time overruns in projects with examples from some projects?

RIB Software has been associated with numerous important projects worldwide, including large-scale infrastructure developments, commercial buildings, and residential complexes. In India, RIB Software has contributed to renowned projects and various Smart City initiatives. Its software solutions, including RIB Candy and RIB BuildSmart, have played a crucial role in optimizing project schedules, reducing costs, and mitigating risks. By leveraging advanced technologies and expertise, RIB Software continues to support the successful delivery of construction projects across India, driving innovation and efficiency in the construction industry. Other examples from a global perspective also include the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the Queensferry Crossing Bridge, and the Kusile Power Station project.

What are the business opportunities being sought by your company in construction/ infrastructure and real estate space and the strategies to market your products?  

RIB Software seeks opportunities in various construction, infrastructure, and real estate sectors by leveraging its innovative solutions to address specific industry challenges. Its marketing strategies focus on highlighting the benefits of its products, demonstrating ROI through case studies and testimonials, and establishing partnerships with industry stakeholders.

Could you talk of the challenges associated with convincing clients of the efficacy and profitability of software solutions and services offered by firms such as yours?

Convincing clients of the efficacy and profitability of software solutions can be challenging due to factors such as initial investment costs, resistance to change, and concerns about implementation complexity. To overcome these challenges, RIB Software emphasizes the long-term value proposition of its solutions, provides comprehensive training and support, and showcases successful implementations to build trust and confidence among clients.

Please provide details on your emphasis on research, design and innovation? 

RIB Software places a strong emphasis on research, design, and innovation to stay at the forefront of the industry. It invests in R&D to develop cutting-edge technologies, collaborates with industry partners and academic institutions, and actively engages with customers to understand their evolving needs and challenges, driving continuous improvement and innovation in its products and services.

What kind of government policy would foster growth of the Construction Software industry in India.

Government policies that support digitalization, promote investment in infrastructure, and encourage the adoption of advanced technologies like BIM can foster growth in the construction software industry in India. Additionally, initiatives to improve regulatory frameworks, enhance skill development, and facilitate public-private partnerships can further accelerate industry growth and innovation.

Future outlook for the industry and from a company perspective

The future outlook for the construction software industry is promising, driven by increasing demand for digitalization, sustainability, and efficiency in construction projects worldwide. RIB Software aims to capitalize on these opportunities by continuing to innovate, expand its product offerings, and strengthen its presence in key markets, positioning itself as a leader in digital construction technologies.