The Digital Craftsman - Digitization in the Craft Industry
Used correctly, it increases efficiency and productivity in many companies.
However, it does not have the same status in all sectors and professions. Although digital change can bring a decisive advantage in competition, especially in the trades sector, the possibilities are comparatively little exploited.
Specific solutions are required
The handicraft industry is diverse. The processes in the various sub-areas are very individual, which also requires individual solutions for the individual problems. In order to successfully digitize work processes, it is important to first get an overview: "Which processes are causing difficulties?";, "Where are the sources of error?" and "Which process has priority?". The aim is to make big changes with small changes Once a problem has been solved, the next can be tackled.This step-by-step change process enables companies to keep the costs of digitization within limits and at the same time continuously gain in efficiency and effectiveness.
Get employees on board
An additional advantage of approaching digitization in this way is that the introduction of new processes and tools can be carried out in a more regulated manner and with greater involvement of employees. In many cases, the opinions and wishes of employees are given little or no consideration. But they are often the ones who are most affected by the changeover. It is therefore important to get the team on board as early as possible. Respond to the input of your employees and take their needs into account. You should also contact particularly motivated employees who are positive about the change and involve them in the design of the process.
Put the focus on the essentials
Be it in the sales process, in the design of the work organization or in communication with the customer, valuable time can be saved everywhere by using software in the form of web or mobile apps. Processes are simplified, sources of error reduced and efficiency ultimately optimized. This affects the quality of the whole work. With a targeted use of digital means, craft businesses can gain an advantage and benefit in many areas.
consult experts
According to a Bitkom study, many craft businesses (over 80% of 500 respondents) are willing to tackle digitization in their company. Half of the companies surveyed see digitization as a challenge or even as a problem. (Bitkom study). Not without reason. Without a strategic partner from the digital industry, many do not know what options they have. In an individual analysis workshop, it can be evaluated which digitization steps are available for your company and how you can implement them.
Sell crafts online - advantages and examples
of online configurators in the digital sales process. There are currently few and mostly large handicraft businesses in Switzerland that offer their services online. But SMEs can also benefit. Companies use configurators to reduce their consulting efforts without the customer suffering as a result. On the contrary: Customers receive the information that is crucial for them in the first phase in less time.