There is still a misconception that the construction industry isn’t or should not use e-commerce, but it’s not so simple as it was prior. In a rapidly changing global marketplace, no business is safe from the effects of technology, and this is particularly applicable to construction, as we’re witnessing more and more companies making the decision to move online.
It’s been a few years of evolution. The Covid-19 virus has increased the comfort of shopping online, which is a good thing for B2B transactions. While some businesses before prefer to handle all their purchasing as well as hiring their suppliers or partners physically, now more and more are preferring to conduct certain aspects of their business on the internet.
And we’re not only talking about businesses like cosmetics, clothing or casinos. Many construction companies are aware that this is true. In fact, it’s been said to be that 70 percent of businesses within the construction sector believe that the ones who do not embrace methods of working that are digital will soon be out of business.
Therefore, if your business in the construction industry isn’t yet ready to take on the digital age, now could be the ideal time to start. We take a closer look at ways that construction companies can maximize their profits through online shopping.
Employ an e-commerce manager
If you’re planning to take your company into the future using eCommerce, you must make sure you have the right team. It’s easy to think that running your website and managing selling online are things you are able to handle yourself. However, it could be very beneficial to bring expert knowledge to your company and someone who is familiar with the complexities of e-commerce and construction.
Early hiring can have a significant impact having the right team on board as you move towards digital transformation could aid in shaping your business in the right direction.
Know the significance of AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) may seem like something that’s not appropriate in the construction industry but this type of thinking could lead to being lost. A recent survey found that over half (55 percent) of large construction companies and more than one quarter (28 percent) of smaller construction firms are currently using AI.
It’s real that AI is able to have a wide range of uses in the construction industry and construction, and it’s certainly useful in planning e-commerce within the business. The use of AI that is able to analyze the demand for goods and services in relation to seasonality can be an enormous benefit in terms of inventory levels and availability even before we even think about its use in lead generation or customer service.
This technology is used in a variety of industries to increase their e-commerce capabilities. It could help in construction as well.
Websites can also facilitate offline sales.
The reality is that the vast majority of B2B customers are millennials, one of the first generations of digital natives that prefer to purchase on the internet. But, it’s also evident that the construction industry has been an industry that was traditionally slow to adopt technological advances. It is a requirement for businesses to find a way to equilibrium.
Be aware that when you focus on developing a fantastic eCommerce website it also helps by promoting offline sales, too. Most customers will conduct their research about the products and services they want to purchase online before making a purchase. So, even those who plan to purchase through traditional channels are likely to find out more information about the product on the internet.
This places the burden on your company to develop an effective website that isn’t just optimized to increase profits, it also contains incredible, helpful information. Make your website designed with the idea of information-based visitors in your mind, along with transaction-based visitors.
Final thoughts
Construction firms need to be aware of the changes in the marketplace and view e-commerce as a chance rather than as a threat. With the right personnel and investing appropriately in infrastructure and technology and preparing for an excellent website that is more simply a sales tool businesses can increase their revenues and increase the profits they earn.
