.png)
The 3 must-haves for a sourcing platform:
A sourcing platform helps construction companies find suppliers and partners faster and smarter. It makes the selection process easier by managing everything in one place. This saves you time and allows you to find the right parties, without getting stuck in administrative tasks. Below, you'll find the three key components of a sourcing platform.
A large network
A large network is essential for a sourcing platform because it increases access to various areas of expertise. A network refers to the marketplace where a database of subcontractors and suppliers can be found, each with a company profile containing detailed information about the business. The larger the network, the easier it is to find the right professional for a project. This leads to more efficient collaboration and better results. Construction companies can quickly select the right partners and effectively manage their projects.
A vast network of suppliers and subcontractors not only offers more options but also a better price-quality ratio. Additionally, companies can look beyond price alone and choose partners based on long-term, sustainable relationships. This increases the chances of finding reliable partners for future projects and therefore the quality of these construction projects.
A network helps you better adapt to changing market conditions by providing flexibility, efficiency, and access to a broad range of connections.
Security & data management
Cybersecurity is a major issue in the construction industry. Due to the rapid digitalization in the construction sector, more and more devices and services are being connected to the internet. This creates new vulnerabilities. Research shows that cyberattacks are becoming more frequent and harder to stop, with severe consequences. Hackers, spammers, and cybercriminals are getting more and more opportunities to access sensitive information. Insufficiently secured platforms can lead to serious incidents such as data breaches. This brings financial risks and can also result in reputational damage and loss of trust from customers and partners.
It is therefore crucial that a sourcing platform meets the highest security standards. The ISO 27001 certification is essential, as it guarantees that the platform complies with strict information security requirements. This certification demonstrates that the platform is continuously monitored for vulnerabilities and that all data is well protected against external threats.
User-friendliness & accessibility
A common problem is that some platforms charge fees for subcontractors and suppliers who want to submit bids, which complicates the process unnecessarily. Additionally, platforms with complex interfaces can make it harder to find important information, slowing down collaboration. This reduces the speed of the process.
Collaboration is crucial for achieving project goals and solving complex issues. A user-friendly platform allows all parties to communicate quickly, exchange data efficiently, and make faster decisions. This speeds up the process, reduces misunderstandings and increases project productivity.
But what makes a platform user-friendly? According to an article by McKinsey & Company, it supports informed decisions and minimizes errors by providing easy navigation and quick access to all important information. The easier it is to find and understand data, the faster users can make a good choice in a short time. As a result, teams are able to react more quickly to changes.
Also data analysis within a sourcing platform helps make better decisions by providing insights into performance, costs and trends. By collecting data on past collaborations, prices and results, companies can spot trends. They can tailor their choices to the best-performing partners. This also improves efficiency, reduces the risk of errors and ensures better-informed decisions throughout the project.
Choosing the right procurement platform becomes simple!
The three must-haves for a modern sourcing platform—the ability to access a large network, security, and user-friendliness are key to the success of your construction projects. A large network provides access to a wide range of subcontractors, ensuring better price-quality ratios and more informed choices. Security and data management ensure that sensitive information is protected against cyber threats. User-friendliness and accessibility allow all stakeholders to collaborate efficiently and make quick decisions.
Now is the time for companies to take a critical look at their own tools. Choose a sourcing platform that fits your company's unique needs and don't get left behind in the digital transformation.
How 12Build meets the must-haves
12Build meets all three must-haves for an effective sourcing platform. It offers an extensive network of subcontractors and suppliers, making it easier to quickly find the right partners and manage projects efficiently. The platform complies to high security standards, including ISO 27001 certification, ensuring the protection of data against cyber threats. Additionally, 12Build is user-friendly, allowing all stakeholders to communicate easily, exchange information, and make quick decisions.
