immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: propTech

  • Subscription model provides flexible set-up solutions for companies

    Subscription model provides flexible set-up solutions for companies

    Skollektiv GmbH offers its furnishing solution as a subscription model on the new Settility.ch website. Under this name, the Bern-based creative network provides pieces of furniture for temporary use that are consistently designed according to the principles of the circular economy, from design and use to the return and reuse of materials. “With Settility, companies and institutions can furnish places to a high standard, even though many industries lack a long-term planning horizon,” reads a press release.

    According to the statement, the Settility design allows for maximum design freedom, as all components are compatible with each other. In addition, all modules are mobile and multifunctional, so that a lobby can be transformed into an event venue, a work zone into a workshop space or a catering environment into an exhibition and sales area with little effort.

    The annual subscription costs are gradually reduced over the first five years. From the sixth year onwards, only a small annual usage fee is charged. “Our subscription model is also extremely flexible in terms of the period of use,” says co-founder Reto Waser, who is also responsible for the concept and realisation. “Anything from two days to many years is possible and makes economic sense.” In addition, customers receive scenographic advice every year. The technical maintenance of the modules is also included in the subscription costs.

    One of Skollektiv’s first customers was the Bluefactory in Freiburg, which rents out modularly customisable spaces to commercial and scientific players. Its Hospitality & Services Manager, Fabio Burri, explains why his company opted for a Settility facility: “The Bluefactory will continue to develop over the coming years. That’s why we appreciate the flexibility and service that Settility offers us.”

  • Research project promotes circular economy in the construction industry

    Research project promotes circular economy in the construction industry

    Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH) are working on the reuse of old building materials, according to a press release. In a project-based interdisciplinary course developed by Prof Dr Catherine De Wolf, prospective engineering students from fields such as architecture and computer science are looking for ways to recycle materials in the construction industry in order to save resources and use materials for longer.

    They apply their knowledge during construction site visits, workshops or in the workshop. The ETH researchers spend around 70 per cent of their time in the field. “They learn how to carefully remove materials from existing buildings, document them digitally, integrate them into new designs and finally realise them,” they say. The experience of dismantling a building and reusing this demolition material, which would otherwise end up in landfill, for new construction processes demonstrates “how sustainable construction methods can be implemented in practice”. In the Digital Creativity for Circular Construction course, teams work on realisable projects for external clients and users. Laser scanning, artificial intelligence and augmented reality are used to record the building fabric.

    The students’ work has been exhibited at the Kunsthalle Zürich, the Art Genève art fair and the Architecture Biennale in Venice and has been used by external clients and users.

  • BIM and digital twins the digital partners of buildings

    BIM and digital twins the digital partners of buildings

    BIM, Building Information Modelling, replaces static 2D plans with a shared, digital building model in which architecture, technology and costs interact in real time. All components are recorded as BIM objects with dimensions, services, prices, warranty and maintenance information, from the brickwork to the door, from the sensor to the pump.

    Instead of sending plans back and forth, everyone involved works in the same 3D model, recognises collisions early on and experiences the building virtually before the first excavator rolls in. This reduces the risk of errors, makes deadlines easier to plan and lays the foundation for clear budgets instead of later addenda.

    From the BIM model to the building twin
    The digital twin is created from the BIM model during operation. The building twin, which takes over up to 95 per cent of the planning information and links it with live data from the building. It forms the “single source of truth” for areas, technology and sensors and visualises performance, occupancy and comfort levels in real time.

    Cloud-based building twin platforms enable buildings to be monitored virtually, scenarios to be simulated and new applications to be scaled quickly, from energy monitoring to user-centred service suites with AI analytics. This transforms the rigid plan into a learning system that evolves with the requirements of operators, tenants and cities.

    Added value in operation instead of just on the construction site
    Around 80 per cent of a building’s life cycle costs are incurred during operation. This is precisely where BIM, in combination with digital twins, has the greatest leverage. Facility managers access maintenance cycles, operating instructions, manufacturer and warranty data in the 3D model, plan conversions precisely and reduce downtimes and journeys.

    Structured product and live data allow predictive maintenance, bundled procurement or automated reactions such as closing blinds in the event of severe weather warnings. At the same time, the transparent database supports ESG goals, decarbonisation and the circular economy, from energy and water tracking to the valuable reuse of materials in dismantling.

    Digital ecosystems as a model for the future
    Digital twins connect buildings, campuses and neighbourhoods to form intelligent ecosystems in which energy, use and mobility are coordinated. They provide insights into comfort, health, utilisation and emissions and help to manage net-zero strategies, new working environments and mixed-use urban building blocks based on data.

    For owners and operators, BIM and digital twins are thus becoming market differentiators. Those who understand their own portfolio digitally can better prioritise investments, manage risks and prove the return on investment of refurbishments, conversions and services. In an industry caught between decarbonisation pressure and user expectations, they are becoming the key to transforming properties from static objects into adaptive, future-proof infrastructures.

  • More AI does not solve data problems

    More AI does not solve data problems

    The mistake begins with the investment
    It’s a familiar pattern: a company recognizes the potential of artificial intelligence, looks at solutions, chooses a tool – and gets started. The expectation is that the new technology will somehow solve existing data problems. The reality: It doesn’t. It makes them more visible.

    This is no coincidence. It is the consequence of a wrong sequence.

    Data is collected – but not made usable
    Data is available in most real estate companies. Property data, tenant data, operating figures, maintenance histories – they exist. The problem is not its absence, but its condition. They are scattered across systems, inconsistently maintained, inconsistently defined or simply cannot be linked to one another. There are sometimes three different versions of the same key figure – in three different systems.

    Anyone who sets up an AI model under these conditions will not get any answers. What you get is output that reinforces existing uncertainties – automatically and at high speed. AI recognizes patterns in data. If the data is inconsistent, the model learns from the inconsistency. If it is incomplete, it operates on an incomplete basis.

    A new layer of complexity
    What is created in practice is not a gain in efficiency. It is a new layer of complexity: AI outputs that nobody trusts. Departments that manually check results. Projects that come to a standstill. A lot of effort, little effect, growing frustration.

    The fatal thing is that many companies react to this with the next tool upgrade. The cycle starts all over again.

    A data hub is not a tool – it is a structure
    The solution does not lie in better models. It lies in a structural decision: the creation of a common, harmonized database. A data hub is not another system that is added to the existing IT landscape. It is the opposite – it replaces fragmentation with central availability. It integrates distributed data sources, breaks down silos and inconsistencies and creates the basis for scalable AI applications and automated reporting.

    The decisive factor is not where the data is stored. What matters is how it can be used: uniformly defined, quality-assured, accessible for different use cases. Only on this basis can AI deliver what it promises.

    Data quality is not preliminary work – it is an ongoing task
    Even with a data hub, a central challenge remains: Data quality is not a one-off cleansing project before go-live. It is a continuous process. Anyone who sees data quality as a preliminary project will realize after the launch that the real problem is only just beginning.

    The database is supplemented by a data catalog: It transparently documents which data exists, where it comes from and how reliable it is. It creates a common language that connects specialist departments and technology – and gives control back to the organization.

    In the webinar: From the database to scalable AI
    In our free webinar “The optimal AI architecture: How data hub, data quality and data catalog make the difference”, we show how real estate companies can tackle this transformation in concrete terms – from data architecture and quality assurance to the productive use of AI. With practical insights, concrete solutions and time for your questions.

    Register now for free

  • PropTech start-up is driving the digitalisation of property management

    PropTech start-up is driving the digitalisation of property management

    According to a press release, Bewy has received 150,000 Swiss francs in funding from Venture Kick. The Zurich-based proptech start-up is developing an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered software solution for property management that streamlines processes and offers a better service to both landlords and tenants.

    The background to this is widespread inefficiency in property management across the DACH region, as stated in the press release. Poor communication, neglected maintenance, unexpected costs and inadequate tenant services frequently lead to dissatisfaction among owners and tenants. Bewy addresses this through automated internal processes, improved communication and real-time transparency. This is expected to reduce management costs by up to 30 per cent and significantly improve the user experience. The fresh funding is intended to drive the further development of the platform and its scaling within Switzerland. In its expansion, Bewy is pursuing an M&A (Merger & Acquisition) strategy aimed at acquiring small and medium-sized property management firms without a succession plan.

    “As Switzerland’s leading start-up programme, Venture Kick is a significant accelerator for Bewy. The funding process is streamlined and efficient, yet simultaneously opens up access to a valuable network and boosts credibility,” co-founder Luca Serratore is quoted as saying in the press release.

    Bowy currently operates in Zug, Zurich, Aargau and Lucerne and serves a double-digit number of clients, including private individuals, single-family offices and property companies such as Swiss Prime Site. The founding team comprising Luca Serratore, Marcandrea Hunkeler, Gilles Baumann and Katrin Leuppi brings together experience from the fields of start-ups, consultancy and the property sector. The start-up accelerator Venture Kick is an initiative of the Kick Foundation for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and is supported by a private-sector consortium.

  • Digital platform simplifies analysis and development of building constructions

    Digital platform simplifies analysis and development of building constructions

    The ZHAW has put its dkon.ch platform online. Students, specialists and interested parties can use it to analyse, compare and develop building designs themselves. According to a statement from the university, this digital tool provides them with information on the impact of individual design decisions on the environment, costs and construction methods. Users can disassemble, rotate and reassemble components in virtual space.

    This makes it possible to visualise which materials a construction is made of and how they interact. By linking this with ecological assessment data, variants can be specifically compared with each other. According to the ZHAW, this opens up new possibilities in planning: “If you want to reduce the use of concrete or test alternative materials, for example, you can directly compare different solutions. Changes in the construction become immediately visible and their effects can be understood.”

    According to the information provided, a special feature of this platform is the integration of real reference buildings. Their designs, materials and construction processes can be analysed in detail. “dkon.ch creates a direct link between teaching and application,” says Andri Gerber, Project Manager and Co-Head of the ZHAW Institute of Structural Design. “Knowledge is not taught in isolation, but can be experienced in the context of real and concrete construction projects.”

    The platform is also helpful for specialists who have to integrate complex requirements and develop sustainable solutions, Gerber continues. That is why dkon.ch is “a tool that can be used both in training and in professional practice”.

  • Zurich tests AI in the building permit process

    Zurich tests AI in the building permit process

    From April 2027, the canton of Zurich will require all municipalities to use the eBaugesucheZH platform. This lays the foundation for digitization, but only the foundation. The content of the applications will continue to be processed in different systems, depending on the municipality or canton. This historically evolved system landscape leads to media disruptions, manual coordination rounds and data inconsistencies.

    What the FHNW study shows
    The Building Directorate commissioned the FHNW Institute of Digital Construction to conduct a potential study along the entire process chain. 15 fields of action were identified, from initial digital information to building acceptance. The greatest short-term potential lies at the very beginning. Chatbots for the initial consultation, structured submission support and automated preliminary checks could immediately improve the quality of submitted applications and significantly reduce queries. Many improvements can already be achieved with rule-based systems, without generative AI.

    Prototype with the city of Kloten
    The Innovation Sandbox for AI of the Office of Economic Affairs tested an AI-based preliminary check for the notification procedure together with practice and technology partners, including the city of Kloten. For simple projects such as solar installations or heat pumps, a rule-based system automatically clarifies the admissibility and choice of procedure, and an AI then checks the completeness and quality of the entries. 3336 tests were evaluated. The results are encouraging, even if the reliable interpretation of complex plan representations remains an open challenge.

    Humans remain responsible
    Both studies agree that complete automation is currently not realistic. Where decision-making logic is clearly defined, rule-based systems are preferable to generative AI. The authority to make decisions remains with humans. Legal issues relating to data protection, liability, transparency and copyrighted blueprints as AI training material must be examined in depth before any implementation.

    The results are now being incorporated into the further development of eBaugesucheZH. Individual applications are to be tested in pilot municipalities. Zurich is thus demonstrating how the careful, step-by-step use of AI can work in a complex administrative domain.

  • How Switzerland is training the PropTech specialists of tomorrow

    How Switzerland is training the PropTech specialists of tomorrow

    Interdisciplinarity is the key
    PropTech is not a traditional field of study. Rather, expertise is created by combining different disciplines. In Switzerland, training programmes combine subjects such as property economics, construction, IT, data analysis, sustainability and management.

    This interdisciplinarity reflects the reality of the industry. PropTech specialists need to understand technical solutions, categorise regulatory frameworks and think economically at the same time. Swiss educational institutions are responding to this with modular programmes and practice-oriented formats.

    Universities as drivers of innovation
    ETH Zurich and EPFL Lausanne form the academic foundation of many technological developments. Degree courses and research programmes in civil engineering, architecture, computer science and data science provide expertise that flows directly into PropTech solutions.

    Universities of Applied Sciences such as HSLU, ZHAW or OST complement this offering with a strong practical focus. Projects in collaboration with companies, start-ups and public institutions enable students to work on real-world problems. This results in a direct transfer of knowledge into application.

    Further education for property practice
    In addition to academic education, in-service training is becoming increasingly important. Many specialists in administration, valuation, development or management need to catch up on or deepen their digital skills.

    In Switzerland, there are a growing number of CAS and MAS programmes with a focus on digitalisation, BIM, data analytics, sustainability and real estate management. These programmes are aimed specifically at practitioners and impart applicable knowledge for everyday working life.

    Collaboration with the industry
    A key success factor is the close cooperation between educational institutions and the property industry. Companies act as practice partners, provide use cases or participate in the content design of training courses.

    This keeps training content up-to-date and close to the market. Students and further education participants benefit from real insights into ongoing transformation processes and establish relevant networks at an early stage.

    Entrepreneurship and start-up promotion
    Many training programmes integrate entrepreneurial elements. Incubators, innovation programmes and student initiatives promote a spirit of entrepreneurship and experimentation. Students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and pursue them as start-ups.
    This combination of education and entrepreneurship is an important driver for the Swiss PropTech scene. Numerous successful companies have emerged from university projects and have been able to establish themselves on the market thanks to targeted support.

    Challenges and outlook
    Despite the strong educational landscape, the shortage of skilled labour remains a challenge. The demand for specialists in the fields of data analysis, software development, BIM and ESG is outstripping supply.

    At the same time, the need for hybrid profiles that combine technology and property practice is increasing. Educational institutions are therefore faced with the task of continuously developing their programmes and addressing new target groups.

  • Smart building becomes a location factor

    Smart building becomes a location factor

    Smart buildings become a location factor when they first make ESG performance visible and controllable. Energy and resource consumption, CO² emissions, indoor climate and space efficiency can be measurably optimised through sensor technology, automation and data-based operation, and these key figures can be verified for green finance, ratings and regulatory purposes. Lighthouse projects such as The Edge in Amsterdam, Taipei 101, Roche Basel and The Crystal in London show how smart building technology can be linked to clear sustainability indicators and certifications and thus have an impact beyond the individual property.

    Smart building as a talent magnet
    Smart buildings are changing the working and innovation environment. User-centred buildings with high air quality, plenty of daylight, flexible spaces, apps and services are becoming a magnetic factor for talent and for companies that demand modern, healthy working environments. In such smart buildings, technology merges with workplace quality. From personalisable comfort parameters to intelligent space management, they directly strengthen employer branding and the attractiveness of a location for knowledge- and technology-intensive companies.

    From individual buildings to networked campuses
    Location and campus strategies are characterised by intelligent buildings. Data from many smart buildings is aggregated in neighbourhoods and campus structures. This creates controllable networks of energy, mobility and utilisation that position a city or region as an efficient, sustainable location, far beyond the individual building. This shifts the discussion. Smart buildings are no longer just a technical upgrade, but a strategic lever to make locations future-proof, regulation-proof and internationally competitive.

    edge

    The Edge in Amsterdam is regarded as a prototype of an intelligent office building in which architecture, technology and data were conceived as a digital system from the outset. Covering around 40,000 square metres, an extremely dense IoT infrastructure with around 28,000 inputs and outputs networks sensors, LED lights with their own IP address, building automation and a workplace app. Employees book their workstations based on activity in the 3D model, receive personalised lighting and comfort profiles and work in highly flexible, daylight-oriented spaces. Thanks to its efficient shell, geothermal energy, large photovoltaic surfaces, rainwater utilisation and e-mobility, The Edge achieves an energy-positive balance and reduces CO² emissions in the double-digit million kilogram range over ten years. The permanently collected usage, comfort and energy data forms the basis for predictive maintenance, cleaning and space optimisation and makes ESG performance in operation measurable and controllable instead of just being reported. As a BREEAM Outstanding property with international benchmark status, The Edge shows how a single smart building can characterise both the working environment and the location profile of Amsterdam as an innovative, sustainable economic area.
    Learn more

    Taipei 101 in Taipei shows how an iconic supertall can be transformed into a green and “healthy” skyscraper using smart building technology. An integrated building and energy management system monitors and controls lighting, HVAC, pumps and lifts, supplemented by cloud-based analytics to increase efficiency. Double façades, LED retrofits, optimised air treatment, water-efficient fittings, rainwater harvesting and an improved cooling water system significantly reduce energy and water consumption. The green retrofit made Taipei 101 a LEED Platinum pioneer for existing buildings. in 2025, the tower again achieved LEED v5 O M Platinum with the highest score and WELL v2 Core Platinum. Over several years, around 160 million kWh of electricity were saved and at the same time the air quality, comfort and health of the users were significantly improved. A global ESG lighthouse project for existing buildings.
    Learn more

    f. Hoffmann-La Roche AG

    Roche Campus Basel/Kaiseraugst is pursuing a smart building and smart campus strategy on the Basel/Kaiseraugst campus, in which a continuous IoT backbone connects existing and new buildings. Sensor technology, building automation and data platforms are used in such a way that energy efficiency, user experience and operational optimisation converge in a scalable digital infrastructure. Specific use cases include occupancy and presence measurement, indoor navigation, geo-referenced floor plans and smart logistics and material flows. Large new buildings such as Building 2, BSN8/11 and the pRED Centre will serve as supports in which sensor technology, automation and data architecture will be integrated from the outset. This makes the campus a strategic ESG lever. Energy monitoring, space and operational optimisation support decarbonisation, while user-centric working environments improve orientation and service quality. Consistent data and life cycle management creates transparency for FM and governance. At the same time, Roche is strengthening Basel as a life sciences location with internationally visible reference buildings and a clear systemic sustainability logic.
    Learn more

    archDaily

    The Crystal in London is a compact but consistently developed smart building lighthouse project with a clear ESG link. It was built in 2012 in the Royal Docks for Siemens as an exhibition and conference centre, covers around 6,300 square metres and is considered one of the most sustainable buildings in the world with LEED Platinum and BREEAM Outstanding. The fully glazed, two-storey building combines an all-electric concept without fossil fuels with a finely tuned glass façade and an integrated building management system. Photovoltaics on the roof, geothermal probes with heat pumps, LED lighting, rainwater and black water treatment and water-efficient fittings significantly reduce energy and water consumption. The BMS networks heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting and security, adapts operation to occupancy and weather in real time and makes all systems measurable, benchmarkable and finely adjustable. The result is a virtually self-optimising building that also serves as a publicly accessible learning space for urban sustainability and has become an international reference case for smart, ESG-oriented architecture with its transparent performance display.
    Learn more

  • Start-up is driving the scaling up of CO2-to-raw-material solutions

    Start-up is driving the scaling up of CO2-to-raw-material solutions

    The Zurich-based start-up DeltaSpark has received funding of 150,000 Swiss francs from Venture Kick. The company plans to use the fresh capital to scale up its technology and carbon dioxide capture process, according to a statement from the Schlieren-based start-up accelerator.

    In this process, an electrocatalytic process is used to process a mixture of absorbed carbon dioxide and added minerals in such a way that hydrogen, oxygen and green sulphuric acid are produced. Much of the CO2 remains bound in the minerals, which can be used as building materials.

    DeltaSpark, a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), offers this technology as a service to major emitters such as cement factories or waste incineration plants. The CHF 150,000 now secured is intended to accelerate paid pilot projects and prepare for an upcoming seed funding round.

    “Venture Kick is far more than just funding,” Luc Bondaz, CEO of DeltaSpark, is quoted as saying in the press release. “Through targeted coaching, the programme has helped us refine our business plan for our target customer segments. This has enabled us to better understand our customers’ needs, clarify our value proposition and develop a clear go-to-market strategy.”

  • When cantons go from being a drag to a location factor

    When cantons go from being a drag to a location factor

    In several cantons, digital building permits are no longer a vision of the future, but part of everyday life. Building applications are submitted via central platforms, distributed digitally and reviewed in standardized processes. This relieves the burden on administrations, planners and building owners and makes procedures more transparent for all parties involved.

    Pioneers rely on clear cantonal solutions and cooperation. Shared platforms reduce costs, pool expertise and prevent isolated solutions. At the same time, digitalization is only effective if it is not thought of as an IT project, but as a change to the entire process, from submission to decision.

    Who already approves digitally
    Several cantons use canton-wide platforms to submit and process building applications electronically. Bern with “eBau”, Zurich with “eBaugesucheZH”, Graubünden with ebau.gr.ch or Valais with “eConstruction” show what a digitally managed procedure looks like, in some cases obligatory or with transitional periods. Other cantons such as Solothurn or Aargau rely on the common open source solution Inosca and are introducing their systems in stages.

    However, the degree of digitization differs significantly. In some cantons, digital submission is mandatory; in others, analog and digital channels run in parallel or there are only pilot municipalities. There is no complete, up-to-date overview across Switzerland, and not every platform already maps the process fully digitally end-to-end.

    Politics between speed and legal protection
    Politically, the building permit process is caught in the crossfire. On the one hand, there is the housing shortage, energy and climate targets, and on the other, federalism, appeal rights and complex technical specifications. Business associations are calling for shorter deadlines and more binding regulations, while municipalities and cantons are insisting on their own responsibilities and limited resources.

    Digitalization reveals these tensions. It makes it clear how many places a dossier affects, where there are snags and how different practices are between the cantons. However, it does not replace political decisions. Whether objections are restricted, procedures harmonized or deadlines shortened remains a question of power, not software.

    Costs, benefits and risks
    For administrations, the switch to digital procedures is a tour de force. New specialist applications, interfaces, training and change management cost time and money. Smaller municipalities in particular are reliant on cantonal platforms and joint solutions to carry the burden.

    On the other hand, there are tangible effects. Fewer interruptions to a process, fewer multiple entries, faster workflows. Even more important are the indirect effects. Every shortened approval week reduces project and financing costs, increases the ability to plan and makes a location more attractive. At the same time, the handling of data remains sensitive. Transparency, data protection and acceptance must be carefully balanced.

    From e-dossier to intelligent inspection
    The digitalization of building permits is only just beginning. In the short term, the aim is to introduce cantonal platforms across the board, eliminate media disruptions and manage building applications digitally throughout. At the same time, expectations are growing. Planners want digital interfaces, investors want reliable deadlines and municipalities want more control options.

    In the medium term, the focus will shift to automated plausibility and rule checks, the integration of planning and construction data and AI-supported assistance. They can speed up procedures, enforce standardization and direct resources to those cases where political or technical decisions really need to be made. Whether building permits in Switzerland go from being a drag to a strategic locational advantage will depend on how consistently politicians and administrators manage this change and whether they are prepared to shake up rules, roles and routines.

  • From data to AI in the real estate world

    From data to AI in the real estate world

    This is precisely why it is worth looking back. Because the way in which real estate is planned, operated and managed has changed fundamentally over the last 30 years.

    Thirty years ago, many processes were still surprisingly analog. Data was stored in folders and paper documents, decisions were based heavily on experience and less on systematic analysis. A phase soon began in which the industry developed step by step: processes became more digital, data more important, buildings and companies increasingly networked.

    It was in this environment that pom was founded in the mid-1990s as a spin-off from ETH Zurich – with the idea of integrating tasks, data and processes in the construction and real estate sector more closely. Thirty years later, pom is celebrating its anniversary and the basic question is still very topical: How can real estate, organization and technology be meaningfully combined?

    In terms of technology, we are now at a new turning point. The digitalization of real estate continues to advance: cloud technologies, IoT and digital models are enabling ever more precise mapping of buildings. The so-called digital twin is increasingly becoming a reality and creating new opportunities for automating processes.

    At the same time, the way companies work is changing. Artificial intelligence will change many processes in the coming years – especially where large amounts of information have to be processed and decisions still have to be made manually. Different data can be analyzed more easily, finished results can be generated automatically and decisions can be massively accelerated, even with the involvement of humans. Assistance systems, known as agents, are becoming part of everyday working life.

    At the same time, a look at the industry reveals an interesting area of tension: technological development is progressing rapidly, while implementation in companies is much slower.

    Every year since 2016, pom Consulting AG has measured the digital maturity of the construction and real estate industry as part of the Digital Real Estate & Construction Study. The Digital Real Estate Index currently stands at 4.3 out of 10 points – a slight recovery compared to the previous year, but definitely not a quantum leap.

    Unsurprisingly, artificial intelligence is increasingly coming into focus. According to the latest study, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning is once again one of the most frequently used technologies, alongside Platforms & Portals and Data Analytics. However, the assessment of AI is much more differentiated than in previous years: Around two thirds of respondents see a high benefit in it. In last year’s survey, the figure was 75%. With more frequent use of AI, the possibilities of the technology, but also its limitations, are becoming much more visible, making expectations more realistic.

    Technology alone therefore does not determine success. The decisive factor remains the organization: data quality, implementation strength, clear responsibilities – and the willingness to question existing ways of working.

    Perhaps this is the real parallel to the last 30 years.

    Back then, too, it wasn’t just about new technologies, but about new ways of thinking. Artificial intelligence could therefore become the next big development step in the industry – not because it changes everything, but because it helps to better manage the growing complexity of real estate and organizations.

  • Zurich remains the world’s number one smart city

    Zurich remains the world’s number one smart city

    Zurich retains the top spot in the seventh edition of the IMD Smart City Index. Oslo is ranked second, ahead of Geneva, which, according to a statement, also occupies third place this year. Lausanne has climbed three places since 2025 to reach seventh place. For the index, the World Competitiveness Center (WCC) at IMD Business School surveyed citizens in a total of 148 cities.

    As the index showed, citizens also assess the quality of their city based on its political transparency and opportunities for participation. ‘Smartness’ therefore concerns not only the introduction of the latest technologies, but also a stronger perception of good urban governance and the implementation of digital services. According to the press release, cities where people feel they are being listened to perform significantly better.

    “The most progressive urban centres, where citizens feel happiest, are not necessarily those characterised by utopian skylines, visible sensor networks or pure technological sophistication,” Arturo Bris, Director of the WCC, is quoted as saying in the press release. “They are distinguished by how effectively they align administrative structures, sustainability priorities, decisions on public investment and – perhaps most importantly – citizens’ trust.”

    Behind Zurich, Oslo and Geneva, London, Copenhagen and Dubai rank fourth to sixth. Behind Lausanne, Canberra, Singapore and Abu Dhabi round off the top 10.

  • Start-up is driving the electrification of industrial processes

    Start-up is driving the electrification of industrial processes

    SolidWatts has announced the completion of a seed funding round. The Vaud-based start-up, founded in late 2022, has raised 1.8 million Swiss francs. According to a press release, existing investors Evercurios VC (Athens), Kickfund (Basel) and Axel Carbon Capital (Milan) have continued their support. New investors include Uni.Fund and Investing for Purpose, both based in Athens, Loggerhead Ventures from Thessaloniki, and the British investor Almanac Ventures.

    In developing his solid-state high-frequency platform, SolidWatts CTO and founder Dr Markus Aicheler, then a postdoctoral researcher at CERN, drew inspiration from the Geneva-based nuclear research centre’s pioneering work in high-frequency (HF) solid-state technology. Whilst CERN uses this technology for scientific applications, the scientist recognised its potential to replace fossil fuels in industry. HF enables high-power dielectric heating “with an efficiency and scale that make it suitable for direct use in conventional fossil fuel-based processes for the first time”, according to the start-up, which is supported by the Swiss Climate Foundation, in the press release.

    “This investment is a huge endorsement of our mission to fundamentally transform the industry’s energy consumption,” Aicheler is quoted as saying. “It enables us to bring HF technology up to the power and efficiency levels that the industry actually needs.” The seed funding will be used to scale up the SolidWatts platform to higher power levels and to carry out pilot projects with industry partners and customers who are actively seeking to reduce their energy consumption and costs through the electrification of heating processes.

    “SolidWatts is shaping the future of industrial resilience,” says George Georgiadis, partner at Evercurious VC and representative of the investor group. “Its technology boosts efficiency and offers a clear path away from dependence on fossil fuels.” The group is backing “an innovator founded in Europe and equipped for the world”.

  • Robotics in the construction industry is gaining in importance thanks to new investment

    Sika, the Baar-based specialist group, has invested in Mesh AG once again following its 2022 investment. The start-up Mesh specialises in robotic construction, reinforcement and formwork and, according to a statement from Sika, has completed a funding round totalling €2.9 million. Alongside Sika, participants included ABB Robotics and the Shimizu Corporation from Tokyo.

    MESH was founded in 2022 as a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich. With partners such as Sika, Mesh developed the first robotic process between 2019 and 2021 that enables complex shapes to be produced without formwork. “In robot-assisted production, it doesn’t matter whether something is straight or curved: complexity comes at no extra cost,” explains Mesh CEO and co-founder Ammar Mirjan in an interview published by Sika. “This gives architects and building clients new creative freedoms.”

    According to Sika, over a million reinforcement elements have already been installed in Switzerland using Mesh technology. These solutions have been used in demanding large-scale projects such as the new Gotthard Road Tunnel, amongst others.

    “Through our investment in Mesh, we are investing in one of the world’s most innovative technologies for robot-assisted manufacturing in industrial series production,” Sika’s Head of Construction, Ivo Schädler, is quoted as saying in the press release. “Combined with our materials expertise, we are creating new opportunities for significant improvements in efficiency, quality and sustainability in the construction industry.”

    According to Ammar Mirjan, the partnership with Sika and other international industry leaders marks “a decisive turning point for Mesh on its journey from regional innovator to global technology provider”. He describes the funding round as a key milestone in driving growth by combining digital manufacturing with advanced material solutions “and jointly tapping into new business potential around the world”.

  • Trust company expands offering with industry software for construction SMEs

    Trust company expands offering with industry software for construction SMEs

    Gewerbe-Treuhand AG, based in Lucerne, is expanding its range of industry software. According to a press release, the company is now offering AbaBau software from Abacus Business Solutions AG for SMEs in the ancillary construction industry.

    The company in Thalwil ZH is a subsidiary of Abacus Research AG. It develops this specialised software with an expert team of 80 employees.

    As an Abacus partner, Gewerbe-Treuhand not only organises the distribution of the construction software, but also supports the SMEs that use it with the practical and process-optimising introduction and implementation in practice.

    Companies using the software also have the option of calling in their fiduciary partner in the event of staff shortages or temporary substitutions for administrative tasks, according to the press release.

    Gewerbe-Treuhand is already a sales partner of Abacus Research AG in 2019. The new partnership with Abacus Business Solutions builds on this collaboration.

  • PropTech remains invisible and indispensable

    PropTech remains invisible and indispensable

    Mr. Schwyter, you are one of the pioneers of the Swiss PropTech scene. How did your journey in the digital real estate market begin?
    After my time at Homegate, I asked myself how I wanted to use my knowledge further. The digitalization of the real estate industry was an obvious choice. Before the pandemic, however, hardly anyone was interested in this topic. It was Covid-19 that gave it a huge boost. From then on, digitalization was widely accepted and I found my place in the PropTech scene.

    What early experiences at Homegate still shape your view of PropTech today?
    Above all, the joy of experimenting and developing new approaches together. We wanted to create solutions that would advance the industry as a whole. This attitude is still with me today. Being open, working in an interdisciplinary way and testing boldly.

    How digital is the Swiss real estate industry really, if you leave out the marketing jargon?
    Pom’s Digital Real Estate Index has been below five on a scale of zero to ten for years. This clearly shows that the sector has a lot of potential for improvement. There is progress, but not a continuous digitalization push. Overall, we are more at the beginning of a professional digital transformation.

    Where does Switzerland stand in an international comparison? Pioneer or laggard?
    Switzerland has around 480 PropTech companies, which are small but qualitatively strong and diverse. Germany is significantly higher with more than 1,200 companies. We have areas where we are very good and others where there is potential for expansion. Overall, I would describe us as a solid, well-developed ecosystem.

    In your opinion, which PropTech segments are the most advanced?
    Platform solutions in the broad sense, i.e. not just marketplaces such as data platforms, service platforms and ecosystems. This is where we see the greatest professionalization and maturity.

    What kind of startups do you think will be the first to disappear and why?
    Startups that only cover one isolated process step and cannot be integrated. Real estate companies need solutions that combine several process steps or can be easily integrated into existing systems. Silo products will hardly be viable in the future, neither technically nor economically.

    Where do you see obstacles to digitalization in Swiss real estate companies?
    The industry is highly fragmented. A company with 20 or 30 employees is already considered large. Many have neither internal IT skills nor a budget for larger digitalization projects. This also means a lot of work for providers. Instead of five major customers, you have hundreds of small ones. This structure slows down digitalization.

    Which three megatrends will shape the PropTech landscape in the coming years and why?
    Clearly data, sustainability and artificial intelligence. Data is the basis for every well-founded decision. Sustainability is not possible without data, especially with ESG, and AI is a trend that is highly polarizing. However, the impact only comes when the data quality and organization are right.

    Are there technologies that have long been ready for the international market but have not yet arrived in Switzerland?
    No. Everything that is internationally relevant is generally available in Switzerland in high quality. The challenge lies not in the technology, but in its consistent application and integration.

    What does it take for administrations to become more open to technology and more courageous?
    A clear digitalization strategy, because without a target image, any tool introduction is pure actionism. Companies need to understand that digitalization is a cultural and transformation process and not an IT project. Employees need to be supported and motivated, especially in an environment with high staff turnover.

    How can you recognize the quality of a PropTech company?
    The team. The key question is: do the people have the skills, perseverance and openness to really implement an idea? Markets change, products change and only a strong team can support this change. The team is therefore more important than the idea.

    Which approaches manage to map the entire life cycle?
    Not individual all-in-one products, but integrated cycles. When condition analysis, refurbishment planning and facility management are linked via clean data flows, for example, a genuine life cycle is created. Integration is the key.

    In which phases do you see the greatest untapped potential?
    Clearly in the area of construction technology. How we build, what materials we use, how planning and construction processes work – major changes are imminent here. We are already much further ahead in terms of operations and marketing.

    Are the regulatory framework conditions more of a driver or a brake?
    Startups want fewer hurdles and some things have been improved. However, issues such as the tax treatment of founder shares remain complex. Overall, we should reduce regulation. Innovation does not come from new regulations, but from entrepreneurial freedom.

    What political steps would be necessary for the sector to digitalize faster?
    I am clearly in favour of less government. The real estate industry will digitize itself for economic reasons. If companies can win more mandates and improve quality with the same employees, they will use digital solutions. Without any new political requirements.

    What cultural and organizational stumbling blocks do you encounter most often?
    The misconception that digitalization is a tool issue. In reality, it’s about processes, collaboration and roles. Many underestimate the cultural change. High staff turnover also makes it difficult to establish a digital culture.

    Which developments will irreversibly change the industry?
    Anything that simplifies or automates repetitive tasks and thus creates productivity gains. Whether you call this digitalization or efficiency enhancement is irrelevant. AI is one component, but not the only one.

    If you had to found a new PropTech today, in which area would it be?
    Probably in the area of marketing, because there is a lot of creative potential there. At the same time, I would like to see existing solutions grow more strongly. We have enough good providers, we don’t necessarily need any more.

    Where will PropTech Switzerland be in 2030?
    PropTech will be indispensable, but not in the spotlight. It’s not “sexy” like climate or energy issues. PropTech doesn’t make the headlines, but it ensures that the industry functions digitally, data-based and efficiently. This is precisely why PropTech will play a central role in the long term.

  • How digital systems are reorganizing urban development

    How digital systems are reorganizing urban development

    Modern cities must simultaneously manage transportation, energy supply, housing, infrastructure, administration and climate adaptation. This is despite a growing population and increasingly scarce resources. Smart city approaches see the city as an ecosystem in which mobility, energy, buildings, climate and governance are interlinked. Sensors, data rooms and digital platforms create transparency, provide real-time information and improve the basis for long-term decisions. The decisive factor is not the digitalization of individual silos, but the interaction of systems.

    Switzerland in the top international group
    Zurich has held a top position in the IMD Smart City Index for years and once again leads the global rankings in 2025. Geneva and Lausanne are also in the top 10, underlining the strength of the Swiss approach with high data quality, well-developed infrastructure and a strong research landscape. At the same time, medium-sized cities such as St. Gallen, Winterthur and Lugano are developing their own smart city strategies, data platforms and pilot projects. Often with a focus on mobility, administration and energy.

    International role models and different approaches
    Singapore is regarded as a reference for integrated national digital strategies in which mobility, energy, administration and health are linked via data and platforms. Copenhagen combines smart city technologies with a consistent sustainability policy and low-emission mobility, while Helsinki scores with extensive open data approaches and digital administration. Cities such as Dubai, London and Amsterdam have different priorities. From large infrastructure programs to data-driven mobility and data-ethical governance. What they have in common, however, is a clear political will and long-term strategies.

    Governance, data and federal reality
    Smart city is only partly a question of technology. Without resilient data spaces, clarified responsibilities, data protection rules and transparent decision-making processes, projects remain piecemeal. In federal Switzerland, municipalities, cities, cantons and the federal government also have to coordinate their roles. For many municipalities, Smart City therefore primarily means process modernization, cross-departmental cooperation and a new understanding of urban development. UrbanTech and PropTech combine administration, real estate management, energy and mobility systems. The closer these systems are linked, the greater the leverage for sustainable urban development.

    Technology as a means, not an end
    The most successful smart cities in the world are not characterized by the number of sensors they have, but by the way they deal with complexity. They use technology in a targeted way to improve quality of life, resilience and efficiency. They embed digital solutions in social and ecological goals. Smart City is therefore less an IT project than an urban development project in which technology remains a tool. The decisive factor is how cities use data and digital systems to make smarter, more inclusive and more sustainable decisions.

    What exactly is a smart city?
    Smart city – precisely defined:
    A smart city is a city that uses digital technologies, data and networked systems to improve quality of life, sustainability, efficiency and participation. It integrates energy, mobility, buildings, administration and the environment into a common data and organizational model and uses this information to intelligently manage services, infrastructure and urban planning.
    The decisive factor is not the technology itself, but the ability to use it responsibly, safely and purposefully in the interests of the entire population.

    Smart cities promise efficiency, sustainability and better urban services. At the same time, they harbor risks that need to be carefully addressed. The following areas are particularly critical:
    Data protection and surveillance
    Sensors, cameras, mobility data and networked infrastructures generate huge amounts of data about the population’s behavior, movements and usage. Without clear rules, this can lead to a risk of surveillance, whether by the state or the private sector.

    The power of algorithms
    When data-based systems control decisions, for example in transport, administration or energy use, there is a risk of non-transparent or difficult-to-understand processes. A lack of explainability or unverifiable models can weaken public trust.

    Democratic control
    Smart city decisions are often made at the interface between the administration, technology providers and infrastructure operators. Critics warn that important urban development decisions could increasingly be influenced by technical systems or private companies.

    Social inequality
    Digitalization is expensive. Cities with fewer resources run the risk of falling behind. A “digital divide” can also emerge within a city. Between those who can use all services and those who remain excluded. Be it for financial, technical or social reasons.

    Complexity and dependency
    The smarter a city, the more dependent it is on digital systems, platforms and external technology partners. Outages, cyberattacks or technical disruptions can have significant consequences for infrastructure, security or supply.

    Lack of standards and governance
    Without clear governance models, isolated solutions, incompatible systems and unclear responsibilities arise. This can negate efficiency gains and make long-term investments more difficult.

    International smart city gadgets that have made headlines
    Smart lamp posts, networked street lamps (Barcelona, Los Angeles, London)
    Smart lanterns with sensors for traffic, noise, weather, air quality and parking lot detection.
    They caused a stir because they are disguised as harmless infrastructure but collect large amounts of data.
    – Symbol for “visible invisible” smart city technology.

    “Quayside Project” Sidewalk Labs sensor masts (Toronto)
    Alphabet/Google planned a district with a fully sensorized environment.
    Temperature, movement, mobility, waste, energy – everything was to be measured in real time.
    – Stopped after criticism of data protection. Discussed worldwide.

    “Lampposts-as-a-Platform” (Singapore)
    Singapore equipped lampposts with cameras, microphones and IoT modules as infrastructure for autonomous driving and safety systems.
    – Internationally renowned for AI-based monitoring and efficiency.

    Smart waste bins, solar-powered waste containers (Bigbelly, New York, Berlin, Vienna)
    Compact waste, report fill levels and sometimes serve as Wi-Fi hotspots.
    – Was in the headlines because some models were able to secretly collect data (“WLAN tracking”).

    Intelligent parking spaces, sensor parking spaces (San Francisco, Amsterdam)
    Ground sensors report free parking spaces in real time.
    – Known for the SFpark project, which measurably reduced traffic.

    Autonomous delivery robots (London, Tallinn, San Francisco)
    Robots that transport food and parcels.
    – Media excitement because they are considered “new road users” on the sidewalks.

    AI-based traffic lights (Hangzhou, Tel Aviv, Los Angeles)
    Cameras and AI control traffic lights dynamically, reducing congestion times by up to 30 %.
    – The “City Brain” system from Alibaba in Hangzhou has become particularly well known.

    Drone programs for rescue and logistics (Rwanda, Dubai, Zurich)
    Drones deliver medicines, defibrillators and medical supplies.
    – Known for Zipline (Rwanda) and medical drone logistics in Switzerland.

    Smart benches with charging function and sensors (Prague, New York, Dubai)
    Solar modules charge smartphones, integrated sensors measure environmental values.
    – Viral because they combine design, energy and technology.

    Holographic citizen information and AR maps (Seoul, Tokyo, Shanghai)
    Interactive AR displays for navigation, participation or administration.
    – The first prototypes were celebrated at trade fairs and shared globally.

    Sound Traffic Light, noise radar systems (Paris)
    Cameras and microphones measure vehicles that are too loud and automatically trigger fines.
    – Great media coverage due to privacy vs. noise abatement.

    Robot police and autonomous security vehicles (Dubai)
    Dubai was one of the first cities to present “Robocop”-like surveillance robots.
    – Global media topic, futuristic and controversial at the same time.

    Top 20 Smart Cities 2025 – International ranking

    1.Zurich (Switzerland)
    Outstanding combination of quality of life, digital administration, mobility and energy efficiency.

    2.Oslo (Norway)
    Leading in climate protection, autonomous mobility solutions and digital governance.

    3.Singapore (Singapore)
    Smart nation as a guiding principle of the state, fully integrated mobility & administration.

    4.Geneva (Switzerland)
    International governance, smart mobility management, high urban service quality.

    5.Copenhagen (Denmark)
    World leader in sustainable urban development and networked mobility planning.

    6.Lausanne (Switzerland)
    Strong research (EPFL), innovative urban planning, mobility and energy data spaces.

    7.Helsinki (Finland)
    Open data, digital administration and one of the highest transparency standards in the world.

    8.London (United Kingdom)
    Mobility data, AI pilot zones, sharing economy and world-leading GovTech scene.

    9.Abu Dhabi (UAE)
    Massive digitization of administration, smart mobility & automated infrastructure.

    10.Amsterdam (Netherlands)
    Pioneer in data ethics, circular economy and citizen-oriented smart city projects.

    11.Stockholm (Sweden)
    Strong IoT infrastructure, energy efficiency, digital access to public services.

    12.Seoul (South Korea)
    Smart governance, AI traffic light systems, highly connected city infrastructure.

    13.Dubai (UAE)
    One of the most technology-driven cities in the world: autonomous transportation, 3D printing, GovTech.

    14.Vienna (Austria)
    Excellent administration, smart living, social innovation and urban resilience.

    15.Barcelona (Spain)
    Urban sensor technology, mobility platforms, open data movement and civic tech.

    16.Prague (Czech Republic)
    Rise in Europe: smart mobility, digital administration, open data initiatives.

    17.Tokyo (Japan)
    Autonomous mobility, robotics, smart infrastructure on a megacity scale.

    18.Tallinn (Estonia)
    E-government world champion, blockchain-based administration, digital identity.

    19.Canberra (Australia)
    Digital administration and mobility systems at a very high level.

    20.Vancouver (Canada)
    Sustainable urban planning, smart mobility, strong tech and innovation scene.

  • A panorama of the digital property industry

    A panorama of the digital property industry

    PropTech stands for digital, technological and data-based solutions that improve, automate or transform processes, products or business models in the property sector. These include software platforms, AI analyses, smart building systems, digital transaction models, data-based refurbishment and valuation tools, energy optimisation solutions and immersive technologies such as 3D visualisations, augmented reality and digital twins. PropTech thus spans the entire life cycle of a property. From planning and development to management, refurbishment and transaction.

    Blurred boundaries of the term
    With the growing awareness of PropTech, the desire of many start-ups to be part of this field is also growing. Companies from neighbouring areas such as FinTech, GreenTech, Bau-Tech, InsurTech or generic software providers are increasingly positioning themselves as PropTech, even if real estate is only a peripheral topic. As a result, tools are subsequently framed as property solutions and the sector appears larger in maps, reports and rankings than it actually is in the narrower sense. The PropTech Map Switzerland thus not only shows the strength of the ecosystem, but also its conceptual vagueness.

    Clusters, categories and regional hotspots
    The map reveals a clear geographical concentration. PropTech companies are particularly densely represented in the regions of Zurich, Zug, Lausanne and Basel. These are all locations with universities, technology parks and a high economic density. Many companies are spin-offs from ETH and EPFL, which emphasises the strong research and technology focus of the Swiss scene. In terms of content, the map spans a broad spectrum from asset management, construction and development to digital marketplaces, rental and sales platforms, 3D and smart building technologies, energy and climate tools, blockchain applications, financial platforms and specialised software services.

    Growth, internationalisation and more professionalism
    The continuously increasing number of entries shows that dozens of new companies are added every year, along with established market players that are digitally expanding their business model and international providers that are tapping into the Swiss market. Many PropTechs have long been operating beyond national borders and are scaling their solutions into European and global markets. At the same time, the ecosystem is professionalising. The PropTech Map not only depicts logos, but also the thematic orientation and positioning of the companies. The map thus becomes a central point of orientation for investors, property companies, administrations and universities.

    You can find the PropTech Map Switzerland here

  • Proptech in the life cycle

    Proptech in the life cycle

    Planning, development and financing
    In this phase, land and building ideas are analysed, evaluated and financed. Proptechs provide market and location data, automated valuations and ESG analyses so that investors and owners can make faster and more informed decisions. Digital platforms connect project developers, financiers and consultants, reduce media disruptions and make risks, returns and carbon effects visible at an early stage.

    Construction and creation
    This is about the efficient realisation of the project. Proptech solutions provide support with BIM models, digital construction planning, schedule and cost controlling and construction site monitoring. This reduces planning errors, makes supplements more transparent and optimises the use of materials. Digital collaboration tools connect architects, contractors and clients in real time and create a clean database for subsequent operation.

    Operations and services
    Operations determine how economical and attractive a property really is. Proptechs provide platforms for letting, management, facility management and user services. Sensor technology and IoT make consumption visible and enable predictive maintenance. New services are emerging for owners, managers and users, from digital tenant portals and booking systems to smart building functions that increase convenience and efficiency.

    Refurbishment and conversion
    The greatest leverage lies in existing buildings. Proptech tools provide support in analysing the condition, calculating scenarios and prioritising refurbishments. They show which measures offer the greatest energy, financial and regulatory benefits. Data-based refurbishment roadmaps help owners to plan investments over the years and optimise the use of subsidies. At the same time, digital models enable better planning of conversions and densification.

    Decarbonisation and demolition
    Decarbonisation runs through all phases, but requires its own instruments. Proptech solutions record CO² emissions over the entire life cycle, simulate net zero paths, compare building portfolios and provide reports for taxonomy, climate and ESG reporting. When dismantling, digital material passports and cycle data help to preserve materials instead of disposing of them. This increasingly turns the life cycle into a material cycle.

    Proptech is shifting the focus over the entire life cycle of a property. Away from individual decisions and towards end-to-end, data-based management. Digital solutions connect separate phases and players. They make costs, risks and emissions visible at an early stage. This makes it easier to plan and prioritise investments. Life cycle thinking becomes an ongoing optimisation process for economic efficiency, user experience and climate targets. The construction and property industry has been thinking in terms of life cycles for years. Proptech is now making these concepts data-based and scalable.

  • Data partnership transforms decision-making processes in the property portfolio

    Data partnership transforms decision-making processes in the property portfolio

    OPTIML and Scaler have entered into a strategic partnership. According to a press release, the aim is to combine Scaler’s infrastructure for sustainable property data with OPTIML’s decision-making intelligence. This is intended to provide portfolio managers with a data-driven, verifiable and dynamic basis for decisions on refinancing and capital allocation, as well as insights into a sensible sequence for sustainable investments in existing portfolios.

    To this end, the new partners intend to contribute their respective expertise. Scaler offers a data infrastructure for buildings and portfolios that encompasses operational, technical and sustainability data. OPTIML’s proprietary Real Estate Decision Intelligence (REDI) software, a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH), combines this data with digital building models of engineering quality.

    In addition to optimising investments and their sequencing, the partners cite further benefits of their collaboration, including the harmonisation of data flows for assets and portfolios across systems and regions, the improvement of analysis for retrofitting and investment scenarios, and the strengthening of reporting to regulators and investors with verifiable and decision-relevant results.

    “By combining Scaler’s data infrastructure with OPTIML’s decision intelligence, we offer portfolio managers a closed-loop system in which every investment decision is based on real performance data and is continuously optimised as conditions change,” says Scaler co-founder and CIO Luc Van De Boom. The partnership bridges the gap between operational data and institutional capital decisions, explains OPTIML co-founder and CEO Dr Evan Petkov: “Data alone does not create an advantage. Investors need optimisation and governance to transform this data into actionable measures. Together, we offer real estate professionals a dynamic decision-making system for the world’s largest asset class.”

  • Consumer cooperatives are becoming increasingly important

    Consumer cooperatives are becoming increasingly important

    Following the acquisition of Blockstrom AG, ista swiss ag is now also able to offer billing solutions for self-consumption groups (ZEV). According to a press release, the company acquired the energy service provider Blockstrom on 4 March 2026. The co-managing directors Claudio Wyss, Marcel Lack and Urs Martin Springer will continue to work for the company. The Bern office will remain in place.

    Springer founded Blockstrom in 2017 together with Marcel Lack. The company has developed solutions for communities that generate their own electricity locally and can supply it both to end consumers and to the distribution grid. Springer sees the acquisition primarily as an opportunity for further growth: “The ZEV market has come of age,” he is quoted as saying. “Over the next few years, high volume will be more important than rapid product development. Ista swiss ag is the ideal partner for us to establish our solutions more broadly in the market and scale them further.”

    Blockstrom is committed to a consistently digital approach. According to the company’s own description, this “delivers efficient processes and minimal error rates: all energy consumption is recorded using smart meters, transmitted via the internet, visualised in real time and stored in the cloud.” Blockstrom customers now also have access to ista swiss’s range of services, including billing for water and heating consumption.

    With the acquisition of Blockstrom, ista swiss is further expanding its expertise as a full-service provider of modern integrated energy solutions, according to ista swiss Managing Director Guillaume Dubois. “Property owners and managers gain a single point of contact for all energy-related matters – from metering, billing, monitoring and energy data management to ZEV and electric mobility.”

  • Multi-domain strategy strengthens position in the digital marketplace

    Multi-domain strategy strengthens position in the digital marketplace

    Schoop Co.,a family-run business based in Baden specialising in landscaping, roofing and solar installations, is now adopting a multi-domain strategy. The main company website has been split into specialist sections covering landscaping, roofing and photovoltaics, as well as the company’s own careers portal. According to a company statement, the division into four domains is intended to improve online reach and visibility.

    Search engines and artificial intelligence (AI) assistants favour websites with a clear focus, according to Schoop Co. The multi-domain strategy, with its four specialised websites, is therefore intended to help customers and job seekers find the relevant Schoop site more quickly.

    Whilst Schoop Gardening specialises in the design, maintenance and construction of gardens, Schoop Roofing is the point of contact for the renovation, construction and maintenance of all types of roofs, as well as for green roofs, terraces and fall protection. At Schoop Photovoltaik, customers can access a full range of services relating to solar installations – from consultation and planning through to professional installation. Finally, Schoop Karriere is aimed at job seekers looking for a career at Schoop in the fields of flat roofing, solar technology or landscaping.

  • Artificial intelligence: Absolutely, but..

    Artificial intelligence: Absolutely, but..

    Whether the English “AI” or the German “KI” – artificial intelligence is currently omnipresent. How its impact is assessed depends heavily on the perspective of the individual: For some, the opportunities outweigh the risks, while others primarily see risks. However, one thing is undisputed: the technology is here to stay.

    For us as a digital real estate platform, an open approach to technological innovation has always been part of our DNA. With ImmoScout24 and Homegate, we have been actively shaping the real estate market for over two decades. Our principle also applies here: AI must not be an end in itself, but should act as an unprecedented “enabler”. After all, the true potential of these two letters lies in the accelerated development, smart expansion and enhancement of innovative products that can create real added value and achieve daily efficiency gains.

    In the professional real estate sector in particular, the benefits of AI can be seen in its productive integration into existing, established processes. While this enables us as platforms to develop market-oriented products in a more agile way, it creates new efficiency gains for brokers and property managers in their day-to-day operations. The decisive factor is not the technology itself, but its real contribution.

    Two examples from the SMG Real Estate ecosystem illustrate this:

    • Our AI-based listing text creation saves an average of 14 minutes per listing. Extrapolated to an entire portfolio or a marketing campaign, this results in a substantial gain in productivity. The time saved can be invested specifically where it makes the biggest difference – in consulting, negotiation and customer relations. Anyone who instead advertises on ImmoScout24 or Homegate as a private individual can use this new intelligent function to partially compensate for a lack of marketing experience.
    • The new “Insight Hub” for real estate professionals provides AI-driven answers to questions about the potential and performance of listings that were previously difficult to narrow down. Every week, real estate agents and managers receive an overview of the listings with the greatest potential for improvement, including specific recommendations for action and the expected increase in visibility.

    This is just a small excerpt, plus numerous current developments at SMG Real Estate, including “Agentic AI”, a digital companion for real estate professionals in their day-to-day work – from the transcription of meeting notes to seamless CRM integration. But more on that in the near future. At the same time, technological innovation requires continuous investment – especially in cybersecurity. After all, it’s not just the right players who benefit from AI. State-of-the-art protection mechanisms, two-factor authentication, integrated access controls, etc. are essential to secure data and effectively prevent attempted fraud. Trust remains the central currency in the real estate market – especially in the digital one.

    But thanks to these targeted, ongoing investments in AI applications, we at SMG Real Estate are actively continuing to shape our role as the “digital shaper” of the Swiss real estate industry. Our goal is and remains first and foremost to make real estate professionals not only more efficient, but also more successful in the long term. This is also what our vision stands for: “Next-Gen Swiss Real Estate – digital and simple.”

  • The digital elite: the top 10 PropTechs in Switzerland 2020-2025

    The digital elite: the top 10 PropTechs in Switzerland 2020-2025

    1. properti
    properti is one of the leading Swiss providers of digital real estate brokerage. The company combines the expertise of experienced estate agents with its own platform (Propchain®), on which properties can be listed, brokered and linked with service partners. properti covers various segments: Luxury real estate, investment properties and commercial real estate. By digitizing the brokerage process, customers can find suitable properties more quickly and brokers can work more efficiently. The startup has received several awards as Switzerland’s #1 PropTech and shows how traditional sectors can be transformed with digital technology. The business model is scalable, both nationally and internationally, and the platform serves as a central hub for all players in real estate brokerage. Under CEO Levent Künzi, the company is growing continuously and establishing itself as an innovation leader.

    2. PriceHubble
    PriceHubble uses big data and artificial intelligence to provide accurate real estate valuations and location analysis. The company processes millions of data points and creates market forecasts to help investors, brokers and banks make decisions. With offices in Zurich, Berlin, Paris and Tokyo, PriceHubble has an international presence and shows that Swiss PropTechs are globally relevant. Strategic partnerships, such as with Check24 or WealthPark, further strengthen its market position. The Fintech Germany Award 2023 in the PropTech category underlines the company’s innovative strength. The company was able to significantly expand its market presence with Series B financing of USD 34 million. PriceHubble is a prime example of how data-driven solutions are revolutionizing the real estate industry.

    3. Crowdhouse
    Crowdhouse is the leading platform for crowdinvesting in Swiss investment properties. Investors can acquire shares in properties for as little as CHF 100,000 and thus benefit from the Swiss real estate market without owning the properties directly. The platform manages over 1,600 investors and a real estate volume of CHF 2.1 billion. The recurring investor rate of 55% is particularly strong, indicating trust and stable performance. Crowdhouse digitizes and simplifies the real estate investment process considerably. It offers detailed information on properties, forecast returns and transparency in management. The startup has thus created a scalable model that benefits investors and project developers alike.

    4. Flatfox
    Flatfox digitizes the rental process for apartments and houses in Switzerland. The platform enables owners, estate agents and property managers to create listings, manage interested parties and control communication centrally. flatfox was acquired by Mobiliar in 2021, underlining its market position and relevance. Brokers can use all major Swiss real estate portals via the platform, which significantly reduces the effort involved. Flatfox thus solves a classic problem in the real estate industry: fragmented and inefficient communication between tenants, brokers and administrators. The combination of an intuitive platform and integration into existing systems makes the company successful.

    5. Houzy
    Houzy offers a comprehensive digital ecosystem for homeowners. The platform supports users with valuations, renovations, planning and networking with tradespeople and service providers. It is free for users, while partners pay for referrals. With over 100,000 registered users and 3,500-5,000 new users per month, the platform shows enormous growth potential. Investors such as UBS and Baloise underline the confidence in the business model. Houzy makes it easier for homeowners to manage complex tasks that used to be time-consuming and confusing, combining digital tools with practical services. The startup has thus established a leading position in the Swiss home ownership segment.

    6. Archilyse
    Archilyse is an ETH spin-off that automatically converts 2D floor plans into 3D BIM models and analyzes them digitally. Over 100 qualitative features such as visual axes, lighting conditions and energy consumption are evaluated. This enables architects, investors and real estate developers to objectively assess the quality of a project. With YoY ARR growth of over 250%, Archilyse demonstrates high scalability. The software solves a fundamental information problem in architecture: the objective comparison of properties. The company combines technological depth with practical application and shows how digital tools can revolutionize planning and evaluation processes.

    7. viboo
    viboo develops AI-based thermostats and intelligent building automation solutions for non-residential buildings. The aim is to minimize energy consumption without compromising comfort. Pilot projects show energy savings of up to 22% and a CO² reduction of 13 tons per school. Over 5,000 thermostats are already in use, supported by funding of €3.3 million. The company combines sound research from ETH and Empa with practical solutions for the market. viboo shows how ClimateTech and PropTech can be combined in practice. Through measurable savings and intelligent control, the start-up is establishing itself as a leading provider in Switzerland.

    8. Scandens
    Scandens is an AI-based software solution for refurbishment and investment planning for buildings. It automatically simulates over 500 renovation combinations and simultaneously optimizes profitability and CO² reduction. The start-up addresses a key Swiss problem: the low renovation rate of buildings. Through partnerships, for example with HEV Zurich, the solution is also made available to private owners. As an ETH spin-off, Scandens combines technological depth with practical relevance. The company shows how AI can make renovation planning more efficient and sustainable.

    9. vyzn
    vyzn develops web-based 3D/BIM software for sustainability analyses in new construction and renovation projects. The platform supports certifications such as Minergie or SNBS and analyzes the entire life cycle of a building from construction to use to demolition. vyzn enables planners and architects to reconcile costs, sustainability and quality. The solution has been recognized internationally, including as a semi-finalist in the EXPO REAL Impact Awards. As an ETH spin-off, vyzn demonstrates the combination of academic research and practical application. The start-up is clearly positioning itself in a growing market segment for sustainable and efficient construction planning.

    10. Immowise
    Immowise digitizes the management of condominiums and owners’ meetings. The platform supports owners and property managers with budget planning, news communication, cost estimates and meetings. It simplifies previously fragmented processes and significantly reduces administrative work. Since its foundation in 2021, Immowise has expanded from western to German-speaking Switzerland. With practical solutions and a clear focus on the Swiss real estate market, Immowise offers increased efficiency and transparency for communities of owners. The company shows how digital tools can revolutionize traditional management tasks.

  • AI as a competitive factor in the real estate industry

    AI as a competitive factor in the real estate industry

    Why the breakthrough is possible right now
    Current market analyses show a clear picture: AI has arrived in the industry. As part of an industry-wide market analysis, 55 AI solutions were examined and 24 specific use cases for the construction and real estate industry were derived. The study showed that most solutions can be found in the utilization and operation phase.

    The reason is obvious: large amounts of data are generated during operation, processes are recurring, efficiency pressure is high and sustainability targets are ambitious. This is where AI is already delivering measurable added value.

    In the planning phase, however, AI solutions have so far only been available in isolated cases. This is surprising in that there is a lot of potential for the use of AI in this phase in particular, for example in areas such as energy consumption and operating costs.

    Three areas of benefit that can make all the difference
    PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
    Still little used, but strategically highly relevant. AI can optimize construction and resource plans or support operational processes on the construction site. In times when operational efficiency is becoming increasingly important, such tools could make all the difference.

    OPERATIONS & MANAGEMENT
    The current playing field of AI. From automated control of technical systems to optimized cleaning and waste processes and digital customer communication. Contract reviews and data management are also increasingly being supported by AI. This is already achieving a measurable boost in productivity.

    PORTFOLIO, INVESTMENT & STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT
    For owners, investors and portfolio managers, the added value lies more at the management and analysis level: data-based valuation models, portfolio analyses or the identification of CO2 savings potential enable well-founded decisions and thus strategically optimized management of real estate portfolios.

    What successful AI projects really need
    Artificial intelligence is not a sure-fire success. Three factors determine success or failure:

    • Data basis & governance: without clean, structured data, AI tools remain ineffective. Companies need to analyse their data quality, processes and IT infrastructure and optimize them if necessary.
    • Strategic anchoring: It is not the technology that should drive the use of AI, but a clear, strategic goal such as increasing efficiency, reducing costs, sustainability or portfolio optimization.
    • Realistic expectations & suitable implementation strategy: Many of the solutions identified are still at the pilot stage. A step-by-step approach, for example using low-code platforms or proven tools, can help to gain initial experience and then scale up.

    Conclusion: Shaping the future instead of waiting
    Artificial intelligence opens up many opportunities for the real estate industry: it can make processes more efficient and decisions more informed, reduce operating costs, promote sustainability and strategically manage portfolios. For organizations that consciously and strategically invest in AI today, it will become a differentiating factor across all phases of the real estate life cycle. However, the key lies not in the technology, but in a clear vision, a solid data foundation and appropriate implementation.

  • Digital Agenda connects events in the Limmat Valley

    Digital Agenda connects events in the Limmat Valley

    Limmatstadt AG has launched a joint digital events calendar in collaboration with municipalities and business associations in the Limmat Valley. Events relating to business, culture, sport, clubs and municipalities are recorded centrally and then automatically published on various channels and displayed collectively on the Limmatstadt website. According to a press release, the initiative aims to raise the profile of the region, exploit synergies, reduce administrative costs and strengthen and further develop the Limmattal region as a place to live and do business.

    “With the digital event calendar, we are highlighting everything the Limmat Valley has to offer – and at the same time strengthening cooperation in the region,” said Stephanie Kiener, Managing Director of Limmatstadt, in the press release.

    The technical basis for the calendar is the guidle platform. Event organisers enter their events once in a central location. These then appear on the regional calendar and, depending on the connection, on the websites of the respective municipalities and partner and media platforms. The solution thus creates transparency and visibility and enables simpler processes and efficient use of resources without overlaps.

    The digital event agenda was supported and financed by the municipalities of Aesch, Dietikon, Geroldswil, Oetwil an der Limmat, Oberengstringen, Schlieren, Spreitenbach, Uitikon, Unterengstringen, Urdorf and Weiningen, as well as the Dietikon Industry and Trade Association and the Schlieren Chamber of Commerce.

    “The new digital event calendar brings the Limmattal region even closer together – visible, connected and strong together,” the press release states.

  • AI and sensor technology are transforming concrete production

    AI and sensor technology are transforming concrete production

    Sika AG has entered into a distribution partnership with Canadian company Giatec Scientific Inc. Giatec’s range of digital technologies for the construction sector is to be integrated into Sika’s global product portfolio, according to a statement issued by the Zug-based specialty chemicals company. The aim of the business agreement is to drive forward digitalisation in the concrete industry worldwide.

    Giatec Scientific Inc., headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, is a global provider of sensors, software solutions and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered data analysis systems. The use of digital technologies in construction is on the rise. According to the press release, this is demonstrated by figures from the global market research and consulting firm Fortune Business Insights. According to these figures, the global market for AI in the construction industry is expected to grow from CHF 4.7 billion in 2026 to CHF 27.5 billion by 2034. This corresponds to an average growth rate of 24.8 per cent per year.

    Sika and Giatec want to combine their strengths to provide customers with high-quality concrete data in real time, according to the announcement. “By combining the most advanced technologies, we are opening up new opportunities for our customers worldwide in terms of efficiency, quality and sustainability. At the same time, we are strengthening our ability to create additional value through digital innovation,” said Ivo Schädler, Head of Construction and member of the Group Executive Committee.

    AI-supported quality control and optimisation of concrete mix designs would offer the construction industry the opportunity to precisely optimise the amount of cement and aggregates used. This would enable efficiency gains, cost savings and CO2 reductions while simultaneously increasing performance on the construction site.

  • Telecommunications provider strengthens regional digital infrastructure

    Telecommunications provider strengthens regional digital infrastructure

    Datapark AG, based in Wil, has been part of EKT Holding AG, based in Arbon, since 23 February. The Thurgau-based energy supplier is also considering a merger with EKT and the integration of Datapark into its Digital Services division. The eleven jobs in Wil will be retained.

    As an internet service provider, Datapark has its own backbone as part of the internet in eastern Switzerland. It offers services for cable network operators, including network planning, internet connectivity, site networking and customer management systems.

    Datapark was founded in 1997 by André Otto and taken over by Martin Kaiser in 2020. With the takeover of the company by EKT Holding, Kaiser is now arranging his own succession. “The integration into the EKT Group offers several positive factors,” he is quoted as saying in the announcement. “On the one hand, we can further expand our strengths in operations, network technology and specialised solutions, and on the other hand, we benefit from the strong market position of the EKT Group. Together, we are creating an even more powerful, regionally anchored digital offering for our customers.”

    Andreas Plüer welcomes Datapark to the EKT Group. “With this long-established company, we are gaining a partner that has been setting standards in network technology, operations and customer service in eastern Switzerland for years,” the head of EKT’s Digital Services business unit is quoted as saying in the press release. Following the takeover, the EKT Group now employs 200 people.

  • Digitalization in the real estate industry: progress with headwinds

    Digitalization in the real estate industry: progress with headwinds

    The industry’s digital maturity level has fallen slightly in 2025. This is shown by the Digital Real Estate Index 2025: on a scale of 1 to 10, the level of digitalization in the real estate industry currently stands at 4.0 points, a decline compared to the previous year (2024: 4.6 points). There are many reasons for this. Increasing complexity, insufficient data quality, cost pressure. This development affects almost all company sizes and roles, but to varying degrees.

    The digital divide is deepening
    The digital divide is particularly evident when it comes to company size. Although the decline affects all categories, small companies in particular are struggling the most with the cost and financing of digitalization. Medium-sized and large companies are able to maintain their lead to some extent.

    Changing roles
    There are major differences between the various roles. Facility management service providers and property managers were even able to slightly increase their digital maturity. The situation is different for planners, construction companies, owners and investors: Here, disillusionment is spreading with regard to digital maturity. In particular, the consistent use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) across the entire life cycle remains a major challenge. In turn, users and tenants are more critical of their digital maturity than in the previous year.

    Perceived stagnation instead of a spirit of optimism
    The industry’s perception is increasingly in line with the measured values. An increase in critical assessments could already be observed in the previous year. This trend is even more pronounced this year. The majority of respondents speak of stagnation rather than major progress.

    Technologies: Benefits recognized, limited use
    Artificial intelligence has found its place in the industry’s consciousness. In the ranking of the most useful digital technologies, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning occupies third place. Given the rapid development and increasing presence of AI in the form of Large Language Models (LLM), this is hardly surprising. However, actual use is lagging behind: not even a fifth of respondents are already using the technology. The situation is similar for data analytics. The industry also sees great benefits in this area and is making efforts to increase its use, but the potential has still not been exhausted. Platforms and portals remain the frontrunners among the technologies.

    Conclusion: Maturity also means reflection
    The current decline in digital maturity does not mark a step backwards, but rather a phase of classification. This is because the real estate industry has recognized that digital maturity does not come from buying tools, but from their measurable benefits. An initial digitalization push is followed by disillusionment, triggered by high integration costs, a lack of standards and inadequate data strategies. At the same time, companies’ understanding of their own level of maturity has grown.

    As a result, the view has become more critical, but also clearer. There is a growing realization that many digital initiatives fail because they are implemented as pure IT projects and too little attention is paid to organizational and human factors. Without clear governance, appropriate competencies and the consistent involvement of employees, the added value remains limited.

    A more realistic attitude opens up the opportunity to make future steps more targeted, more effective and more successful in the long term. Real progress is made when digital transformation is no longer seen as a project with an end date, but is recognized as a permanent management task.