immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Category: propTech

  • The new GIS browser as a public service for professionals and private individuals

    The new GIS browser as a public service for professionals and private individuals

    The canton of Zurich offers a huge pool of data with a spatial reference (geodata). Most of it is accessible free of charge via the GIS browser. Around 200 digital maps, grouped according to 21 main themes such as buildings, flora and fauna, leisure and geology, can be accessed online. Most of the data can be used without restrictions and the map content can be downloaded and printed directly.

    Broad benefits for professionals and private individuals
    The GIS browser is a useful planning and decision-making tool not only for professionals, but also for private individuals. Location factors such as the age of a house, proximity to public transport stops, shops, schools or sports facilities, planned building sites and journey times on the road network can be easily checked. Up-to-date and precise facts on numerous issues are available.

    History and development of the GIS browser
    Since its launch in 1999, the GIS browser has undergone continuous development. The new version is the third generation. Most of the publicly relevant maps are already available and the migration of the remaining maps is continuing.

    Advantages of the new GIS browser
    The portal has a new design and the user interface is intuitive and self-explanatory, even on smartphones and tablets. An intelligent search function makes it easier to find the desired map. The map views can be customised and used even better thanks to new functions such as filters and favourites lists.

    Integration into the new cantonal geoportal
    The geodata of the Canton of Zurich is also available in the geodata catalogue and geodata shop. These systems are now centrally accessible via the new geoportal geo.zh.ch. The geoportal also offers news on new maps and a help and support area.

  • Efficient work contract review with AI

    Efficient work contract review with AI

    Master builders are pragmatic doers whose main focus is on the realisation of construction projects. Legal expertise is often not their strong point. Nevertheless, the regular conclusion and careful examination of contracts for work is essential. This important step is often neglected due to high legal costs, which can result in unfavourable contractual conditions for construction companies and high losses in the event of a dispute.

    Introduction of the new service
    To counteract this problem, SBC is now offering its members an innovative solution. Work contracts can now be reviewed for a flat fee – regardless of the scope of the contract or the number of clauses. This service is made possible by the use of artificial intelligence.

    Cooperation with Legartis
    In cooperation with the Zurich-based company Legartis, SBC has developed a platform on which members can upload their contracts for work and general terms and conditions. The SBC’s legal department checks the documents using the specialised software and provides well-founded feedback within a maximum of 48 hours.

    How the AI-supported review works
    The AI model has been trained with thousands of contracts for work and labour and can therefore recognise correlations and highlight deviations regardless of the wording. Members can also define individual specifications, for example for special conditions with clients. Simon Lüscher emphasises: “Our members can massively reduce their legal risks and bring clarity to the jungle of agreements with a precise work contract review.” With this new service, SBC is taking a significant step towards digitalisation and supporting its members in minimising legal risks and concluding contracts more securely. The cooperation and the use of artificial intelligence enable a fast, inexpensive and effective contract review that is unrivalled on the market.

  • ETH researchers generate very high temperatures with new technology

    ETH researchers generate very high temperatures with new technology

    Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH) have developed a technology known as a thermal trap that absorbs sunlight and can thus achieve very high temperatures. According to a press release, they have succeeded in reaching temperatures of over a thousand degrees Celsius using this method. These high temperatures are required for the production of cement, metals and various chemicals in energy-intensive industrial processes. The team led by Emiliano Casati, a scientist in the Energy and Process Systems Engineering Group, and Aldo Steinfeld, Professor of Renewable Energy Sources, developed this system, the main component of which is a quartz rod. When this is irradiated with intense light, it is converted into heat with only minimal heat loss. Previous experiments of this kind with thermal traps reached a temperature of 170 degrees Celsius. Solar power plants usually operate at temperatures of up to 600 degrees Celsius.

    The researchers’ aim is to one day be able to use the method for the decarbonisation of energy-intensive industries. “To combat climate change, we need to decarbonise energy in general,” Emiliano Casati is quoted as saying in the press release. “People often think of energy only in terms of electricity, but we actually consume around half of our energy in the form of heat.” The current experimental study was published in the specialist journal “Device”. Further analyses, including on the economic viability of this technology, are being planned.

  • Innovative technology for utilising sunlight for high temperatures

    Innovative technology for utilising sunlight for high temperatures

    Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH) have developed a technology known as a thermal trap that absorbs sunlight and can thus achieve very high temperatures. According to a press release, they have succeeded in reaching temperatures of over a thousand degrees Celsius using this method. These high temperatures are required for the production of cement, metals and various chemicals in energy-intensive industrial processes. The team led by Emiliano Casati, a scientist in the Energy and Process Systems Engineering Group, and Aldo Steinfeld, Professor of Renewable Energy Sources, developed this system, the main component of which is a quartz rod. When this is irradiated with intense light, it is converted into heat with only minimal heat loss. Previous experiments of this kind with thermal traps reached a temperature of 170 degrees Celsius. Solar power plants usually operate at temperatures of up to 600 degrees Celsius.

    The researchers’ aim is to one day be able to use the method for the decarbonisation of energy-intensive industries. “To combat climate change, we need to decarbonise energy in general,” Emiliano Casati is quoted as saying in the press release. “People often think of energy only in terms of electricity, but we actually consume around half of our energy in the form of heat.” The current experimental study was published in the specialist journal “Device”. Further analyses, including on the economic viability of this technology, are being planned.

  • Council of Europe and Switzerland set standards for AI

    Council of Europe and Switzerland set standards for AI

    The new Convention on Artificial Intelligence was officially adopted at the 133rd session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, which took place in Biel/Bienne. Swiss Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, was present at this historic moment. Switzerland, known for its precise and prudent approach in international negotiations, played a decisive role in the one and a half years of intensive discussions and development work.

    The agreement not only emphasises the importance of AI in our future society, but also establishes a solid, legally binding framework to ensure that AI systems are developed according to the highest ethical standards. The core principles include transparency, robustness, non-discrimination and the protection of privacy. These measures are crucial to strengthening public trust in the new technology while safeguarding the rights of every individual.

    Promoting international cooperation
    The timing of the adoption coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe, which further emphasises the importance of this convention. From September 2024, the document will be submitted to all member states for signature. Once ratified by Switzerland, which requires its transposition into national law, it will serve as a key component of international AI governance.

    In practice, the Convention will serve as a guide that promotes a harmonised approach to the responsible development and use of AI systems not only in Europe, but also worldwide. By creating this framework, the Council of Europe is making a significant contribution to ensuring that AI is used as a force for good, strengthening and advancing the foundations of our democratic societies.

  • Zug sets standards in global blockchain research

    Zug sets standards in global blockchain research

    With the support of the Canton of Zug, an interdisciplinary research centre is being established that will focus on the diverse applications and effects of blockchain technology. The initiative, which is being realised in cooperation with the University of Lucerne and Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, will not only research the technological aspects of blockchain, but also the social, economic and political aspects. Finance Director Heinz Tännler emphasises that the project not only promotes scientific research, but also strengthens Zug as a business location, particularly in light of the new OECD minimum taxation that was introduced at the beginning of 2024.

    Globally unique research initiative
    The newly founded Zug Institute for Blockchain Research at the University of Lucerne will focus on the challenges and opportunities of this disruptive technology. Nine new chairs will be created to address the various facets of blockchain technology. The research will pursue a holistic approach that encompasses technological innovations as well as the associated social, economic and political issues. The aim is to develop an in-depth understanding of blockchain technology and its potential impact on society.

    Strengthening research capacities at the Lucerne University of Applied Sciencesand Arts
    The Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts will significantly expand its existing activities in blockchain research through the new initiative. The university is contributing its expertise in the fields of computer science, finance and technology to the project and is working closely with the University of Lucerne to create a comprehensive research environment. This cooperation forms the basis for the hub, a platform for collaboration and communication that promotes exchange between the participating researchers and the global blockchain community.

    Sustainable funding and long-term goals
    Following the initial start-up funding from the canton, it is planned that the project will switch to sustainable sources of funding. An external evaluation after three years will assess the effectiveness and progress of the research initiative. These measures will ensure that the “Blockchain Zug – Joint Research Initiative” becomes a permanent fixture in the global research landscape in the long term and establishes Zug as a leading centre for blockchain technology.

  • Why Next Property AG?

    Why Next Property AG?

    Why does the property industry need Next Property AG?
    To create favourable framework conditions that enable industry players to operate as independently and self-determinedly as possible in a digital world without becoming a pawn in the hands of dominant companies.

    What is Next Property AG’s vision and how do you achieve it?
    We are committed to fair competition in the Swiss property industry on behalf of our shareholders. This includes the monitoring and risk assessment of technological developments and co-determination in the design of customer interfaces as well as the processing and monetisation of data generated by our shareholders in their day-to-day business.

    To realise this vision, we primarily need industry players who are willing to invest in their entrepreneurial future and share the idea that effective alliances are needed to have a say in a digital world. This is not about short-term success, but about ensuring that the provision of professional real estate services as we know them today remains attractive in the future.

    Doreal estate agents and managers have to fear for their business model?
    If we look at developments outside the real estate industry, digitalisation is undoubtedly leading to radical changes to long-established business models. In other words, digitalisation offers new opportunities to meet the current needs of employees, employers and customers. This realisation is not new, but we are finding that the maturity of the development is now such that the changes are increasingly being felt by companies in the property industry. Companies that adapt to the dynamics of the digital world need not worry about their business model.

    How can the property industry prepare for the challenges of the digital future?
    It has become clear that even large established industry players are too small to play a significant role in the digital developments of an industry. We therefore recommend that property companies join forces in a powerful interest group such as Next Property AG in order to work together for favourable framework conditions.

    Is there an example of this?
    A current example of this is the promotion of the property marketplace newhome, which adheres to agreed industry principles and in which the more than 500 Next Property AG shareholders are indirectly involved. Together, early or exclusive advertisements and targeted marketing campaigns are used to ensure that newhome becomes a regionally competitive marketplace alternative for professionally marketed properties. We recommend “newhome first”.

  • Partnership for the digitalisation of the property market in Zurich

    Partnership for the digitalisation of the property market in Zurich

    Skribble, the Zurich-based specialist for digital signatures, and real estate service provider SMG Real Estate are joining forces to digitise the property market. According to a press release, SMG Real Estate customers will be able to sign purchase or rental agreements electronically. The signatures are legally valid and recognised worldwide. This step towards digitalisation speeds up the contract process and eliminates the tedious process of concluding analogue contracts with multiple paper printouts, according to the press release.

    “We are very excited about the collaboration with SMG Real Estate and the opportunity to make our e-signature solutions easily accessible to an even wider audience,” said Roni Oeschger, CEO of Skribble, in the press release. “By integrating Skribble into SMG’s real estate ecosystem, we can help make the property industry more efficient and future-proof.”

    The partnership with Skribble is a key step in the digitalisation of the real estate market, adds Daniel Bruckhoff, Head of Partnerships and Innovation at SMG Real Estate. The SMG Swiss Marketplace Group unites the digital marketplaces of TX Group, Ringier and Mobiliar.

  • Installation work for smart meters

    Installation work for smart meters

    Cablex, the Gümligen-based specialist for network infrastructure, has been selected as BKW ‘s contractual partner in a tender. According to a press release, Cablex will be responsible for the so-called smart meter rollout for BKW. This involves the replacement of 400,000 electricity meters with modern smart meters. Cablex, a wholly owned subsidiary of Swisscom, will install 500 new Kamstrup OMNIPOWER smart meters every day. The campaign is intended to contribute to the Energy Strategy 2050.

    Cablex was selected by BKW because the company has expertise in the implementation of nationwide ICT and smart infrastructure projects, including relevant experience with smart meter solutions. According to the press release, the changeover should be less disruptive for customers: the electricity will be switched off for around 15 minutes to replace the meters and the entire installation will take around one hour.

  • New pipeline cadastre portal creates transparency and added value in the construction industry

    New pipeline cadastre portal creates transparency and added value in the construction industry

    Zurich has introduced a new, advanced system for visualising infrastructure networks. The canton of Zurich’s pipeline register provides a complete visualisation of all above-ground and underground pipelines responsible for water, wastewater, electricity, district heating, gas and communications. Centralising this data in a single information system makes it much easier to access relevant information for planning, construction and maintenance work.

    Simplified access to information
    Previously, interested parties had to obtain information on pipelines individually from the respective owners or operators – a time-consuming process. With the new pipeline cadastre portal, the canton of Zurich now offers a central point of contact that enables users to access this important data quickly and easily. Over 500 works operating in the canton regularly update their data in this system, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the information.

    Wide range of applications
    The portal serves a wide range of users, including public administrations, construction companies, rescue and security services and private individuals. The precise information on the type and location of pipelines improves planning reliability for construction projects and facilitates the maintenance and expansion of existing infrastructure. Although the portal is not intended to be used for the direct planning of excavation work, it helps to significantly reduce the risk of damage by providing clear documentation of pipe routes.

    Simple operation and access to data
    The pipe cadastre portal is designed to be user-friendly. Users can search by municipality, parcel or street and select the medium of interest. The corresponding pipes are then displayed on the digital map. The data is easily accessible and available in standard formats. Additional information such as ownership and contact details of the relevant works are also provided.

    The portal can be accessed at: https://leitungskataster.zh.ch. Prior registration is required to use the portal.

  • Emergency power for automatic doors: New battery backup solution

    Emergency power for automatic doors: New battery backup solution

    According to a press release,Dormakaba is launching a fire-tested battery backup for uninterruptible power supply in door automation. The installation kit for rechargeable lithium iron phosphate batteries (LiFEPO4) has been specially developed for the ED 100/250 proprietary product. In the event of a power failure, the battery backup switches on and ensures continuous functionality of the automatic swing door system.

    Extensive scientific tests carried out by the Swedish state research institute Research Institutes of Sweden have ruled out any safety concerns, according to the statement, adding that the solution has demonstrated its added value in terms of safety and reliability “under very demanding test conditions”. This involved integrating an automatic door system on a fully equipped fire door and creating a worst-case scenario.

    “With the launch, we have developed a competitive product that offers customers significant added value in terms of security and sustainability,” Magin Guardiola, Chief Innovation Officer at dormakaba, is quoted as saying. Other advantages cited include lower installation costs and less need for expensive cable connections to external units.

    The locking technology company from Glattal intends to grow in Scandinavia with the building management solution. The product will be launched in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden in April and May.

  • Automation of contract review in the construction industry through the use of AI technology

    Automation of contract review in the construction industry through the use of AI technology

    The legal technology AI will be integrated into a specialised AI module that is being developed in collaboration with a multinational construction company. According to an official announcement, this technology will enable automated contract review specifically tailored to the construction industry.

    The construction company’s industry-specific expertise will be incorporated into the training of the AI. “This collaboration creates ideal conditions for developing an effective, industry-specific solution for AI-assisted contract review,” the CEO of the technology company is quoted as saying. The cooperation underlines the commitment of both companies to fully utilise the potential of innovative technologies and to position themselves as pioneers in the use of AI in the legal practice of the construction industry.

    “This partnership sends a strong signal to the construction industry that AI and legal departments can work very well together,” says the construction company’s Head of Legal and Compliance. “The use of AI in legal matters is an important step in our strategy to improve services and increase efficiency,” adds the Head of Global Legal Strategy. He expects this to result in “improved management of contractual risks, greater standardisation and a significant reduction in the workload of our legal experts”.

  • TX Group strengthens digital strategy with new digital hub

    TX Group strengthens digital strategy with new digital hub

    On 16 April 2024, Tamedia announced plans for a new digital hub to accelerate the digital transformation within the company. This centre of digital expertise will work directly with the various brands and editorial teams to support the transformation of business processes. The hub will bring together expertise in the areas of product management, experience, reach, artificial intelligence, data analysis and technology.

    In the first phase, the Digital Hub is intended in particular to expand the reach of Tamedia’s digital offerings and increase user engagement while maintaining the company’s high journalistic quality standards. By integrating these key functions, Tamedia is emphasising the importance of strong digital presences for the future of the media company.

    Patrick Rexroth, who will take up his new role as Chief Digital Officer on 1 May 2024, brings with him extensive experience in the digital economy. Before joining Tamedia, Rexroth held senior digital roles at Yahoo! Germany, the start-up PAKX and most recently at Condé Nast Germany, where he led teams in audience development and global innovation. Together with Regula Marti, Chief Product Officer, and Franz Bürgi, Chief Information Officer, he will set up and manage the Digital Hub.

    Jessica Peppel-Schulz, CEO of Tamedia, emphasised the importance of the Digital Hub as a milestone for the company’s digitalisation and expressed optimism about Rexroth’s ability to accelerate Tamedia’s digital transformation. This strategic move positions Tamedia at the forefront of digital media innovation.

  • NEST serves EU project as pilot plant

    NEST serves EU project as pilot plant

    The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology(Empa) is part of the international consortium for the recently launched three-year HorizonEurope research project HEATWISE. The aim is to fully integrate the waste heat from these systems into the building technology in buildings with extensive IT infrastructure.

    “The goal is a zero-waste principle,” explains Binod Koirala from Empa’s Urban Energy Systems Lab in a press release. “This means that we want to recover as much waste heat as possible and integrate it into the building’s heating system.” In this context, the Empa team’s first task is to identify the potential for heat gains in Empa’s NEST research building. In addition to the waste heat from the microcomputing centre in its basement and the computers in the offices, the influence of people present on the room temperature will also be taken into account.

    The researchers want to use the data obtained in this way to derive predictive control algorithms that link the energy management of the IT infrastructure with the building technology. In addition to NEST, they will then be installed in three other pilot facilities: in buildings at Aalborg University in Denmark, in a car factory in Turkey and in an IT research and development centre in Poland.

    At NEST, the data centre’s air cooling system will also be supplemented by the newly developed on-chip liquid cooling system from Israeli project partner ZutaCore. The heat of up to 70 degrees recovered in this way can be used to power the showers in the building, for example.

  • Solstis offers photovoltaics throughout Switzerland

    Solstis offers photovoltaics throughout Switzerland

    Solstis, a photovoltaic company based in Solothurn, is now offering its services throughout Switzerland. According to a press release, BKW Building Solutions intends to expand its commitment to renewable energies from western Switzerland to the whole country under this brand. With this expansion, BKW Buildings Solutions aims to increase its installed capacity in German-speaking Switzerland to 75 megawatts over the next two years, which corresponds to a doubling of its current capacity offering. The services will focus on the private and business customer sector, where BKW will provide the financing and Solstis the installation.

    The Energy Centre of ISP Electro Solutions will also operate under the Solstis brand, a spin-off of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne(EPFL).

    “Renewable energies are a focal point of our strategy and make a decisive contribution to the implementation of the Energy Strategy 2050. Photovoltaics is an important piece of the puzzle towards more sustainable infrastructures,” Antonin Guez, CEO of BKW Building Solutions, is quoted as saying in the press release.

  • Freesuns receives 1 million francs

    Freesuns receives 1 million francs

    Freesuns SA, a Colombier-based start-up specialising in innovative solar tiles, has announced a capital increase of CHF 1 million. According to a press release, this includes a strategic investment by the Renens-based PHIDA Groupe. The collaboration opens up new perspectives for the future of renewable energies in French-speaking Switzerland. The family business PHIDA Groupe in Renens comprises 20 companies in four business areas: Construction, Events, Services and Investments.

    Freesuns believes in a world in which energy production is sustainable, environmentally friendly and aesthetic, according to the company’s website. For this reason, Freesuns has developed a range of special solar tiles that maximise the coverage of photovoltaic cells for every roof shape and style. To date, around 130 roofs in Switzerland have been covered in this way.

    “This capital injection will enable us to expand our business, push the boundaries of building-integrated photovoltaics and get closer to our vision: Solar roof tiles on every roof,” Deborah Learoyd, the managing director of Freesuns, is quoted as saying in an article on startupticker.ch. The start-up intends to use the capital to continue research and development in the area of software and hardware solutions and to expand its sales to new markets.

    “We are delighted to be working with Freesuns on its mission to revolutionise roofing materials with beautiful solar roof tiles. This will allow us to offer our customers the latest solar roof tile technologies and maintain our position as the market leader in the building envelope sector in French-speaking Switzerland,” said Bastien Sauve, CEO of PHIDA Groupe.

  • ETH Zurich presents app against document forgery

    ETH Zurich presents app against document forgery

    The application uses sophisticated technology to authenticate physical documents and objects. Deviations from the original are displayed on the screen in real time. The process is based on the scanning of a QR code and the subsequent analysis of the document by the app. The app compares the captured images with the original, which is stored in encrypted form on a server. It is particularly important to emphasise that the app only displays relevant deviations, without taking impairments such as coffee stains or wrinkles into account.

    The Thenti app is the result of a collaboration between Martín Ochoa and David Basin, who founded the ETH spin-off Thenti. It combines digital authentication principles with the physical world, a step that was deemed necessary to do justice to the duality of digital and physical documents. The City of Zurich proved to be the ideal partner for the pilot project, as the authenticity of debt collection register extracts is of essential importance.

    Extension to three-dimensional objects
    The research work on which the app is based is funded by the Werner Siemens Foundation’s Centre for Digital Trust. The experience gained from the pilot project in Zurich will contribute to the final development of the solution. Thenti’s business model, which provides for free use of the app for certain checks, but also offers a subscription model, is interesting.

    A future goal of the Thenti app is to extend its capabilities to three-dimensional objects, such as luxury watches. This would take the app to a new dimension of authenticity verification and offer added value for both consumers and manufacturers. The technology promises to be able to recognise even minor, individual features of products, providing effective protection against counterfeiting.

    A contribution to security and confidence building
    The development and implementation of the Thenti app represents significant progress in the fight against the counterfeiting of documents and goods. For professionals and managers in the property and location promotion sector, this technology offers a new level of security and trust. By connecting the digital and physical worlds, the Thenti app makes a valuable contribution to the integrity of documents and products.

  • Life sciences and ICT will continue to dominate relocations in 2023

    Life sciences and ICT will continue to dominate relocations in 2023

    The location promotion programme of the federal government, regions and cantons can record the relocation of a total of 206 companies to Switzerland in 2023, the Conference of Cantonal Directors of Economic Affairs(VDK) announced in a press release. Once a year, it compiles statistics on the number of foreign companies relocating to Switzerland. As in previous years, companies from the life sciences and ICT sectors dominated the new settlements in the reporting year. Four out of ten new relocations came from the USA, Germany or France.

    The 206 companies that relocated last year helped to strengthen cantonal and regional value creation. They have already created 640 jobs throughout Switzerland in their first year of operation. Over the next three years, the number of new jobs is expected to rise to a total of over 2500.

    The national location promotion, which is a joint task of the federal government and the cantons, has commissioned the official Swiss organisation for export promotion and location promotion Switzerland Global Enterprise(S-GE) with the national promotion activities. The service agreement for 2024 to 2027 between the Confederation, the cantons and S-GE reinforces the focus on innovative and sustainable industries and technologies. Quality takes precedence over quantity. For example, the companies located here “should also contribute to strengthening the entire regional and local value creation as well as the SME landscape with their innovative expertise in their network”, according to the press release.

  • Zurich economic region records 89 new companies

    Zurich economic region records 89 new companies

    The Greater Zurich Area AG and its partners attracted a total of 89 companies to the Zurich economic region last year. Compared to the previous year, the number of companies relocating to the region was 20 lower, Greater Zurich Area AG reported in a press release. “Last year was dominated by geopolitical uncertainties, inflation and a general mood of crisis, which had a direct impact on investment activity,” said Sonja Wollkopf Walt, Managing Director of the location marketing organization. “Despite a decline in the number of companies moving here, we are cautiously optimistic about the future.”

    The jobs created by the new companies in the first year also fell short of the previous year’s figure due to the lower number of new companies settling here. However, 1463 new jobs are to be created over the next five years, an increase of 13% compared to the plans of the companies settling in 2022. In addition, 62 percent of the companies relocating in 2023 are active in the focus industries defined by Greater Zurich Area AG. Almost three in ten of the new companies planning to relocate to the Greater Zurich Area.

    The location marketing organization highlights the establishment of the Boston Dynamics AI Institute in Zurich as one of the highlights of 2023. According to the press release, this flagship project is primarily due to the activities of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich in the field of artificial intelligence. It describes the reporting year as a “year of breakthroughs in the field of artificial intelligence technology”.

  • HWZ teaches artificial intelligence in the property sector

    HWZ teaches artificial intelligence in the property sector

    The new MAS Digital Real Estate Management HWZ course at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences(HWZ) is designed to provide further training in the opportunities that process optimisation offers the real estate sector. The part-time continuing education programme is aimed at managers and specialists in real estate management.

    In a press release, study director Dr Peter Staub points out that the real estate sector is still lagging behind almost all other sectors in terms of digitalisation, “in some cases significantly”. The entire sector would be “well advised to adapt new technologies now and quickly catch up in terms of digitalisation and AI”. Otherwise, relevant cost and earnings optimisation and a clear strategy against the shortage of skilled workers “can hardly be achieved”.

    Artificial intelligence is the key to modernising the industry, Markus Streckeisen is quoted as saying. He has overall responsibility for real estate products at the HWZ and is head of the existing MAS in Real Estate Management HWZ programme. “Data management, platform solutions and automation steps reduce running costs and drive innovation,” including in terms of sustainability and the circular economy.

    The programme, which can be booked in three modules, focuses on smart business models, data-based value creation and sustainable lifecycle management. Collaborations with lecturers from universities such as the University of St.Gallen and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich are planned. Start date is September 2024.

  • Sunrise takes over cable network around Lausanne

    Sunrise takes over cable network around Lausanne

    The city council of Lausanne has decided to transfer the cable network of ten neighbouring municipalities to Sunrise. It wants its Services industriels de Lausanne(SiL) to focus its multimedia activities on the city area in future. With this strategic decision, the city wants to offer its citizens a more diverse range of services, dismantle the historic cable network and continue the development of its FTTH fibre optic network, according to a press release.

    This step should help to ensure that customers outside of Lausanne are not penalised. Sunrise, the largest private telecommunications provider in Switzerland, convinced the city in a comprehensive evaluation process with its technical and operational expertise as well as its attractive offers for businesses and private individuals.

    By taking over the cable network, Sunrise is acquiring an important digital infrastructure in the Lake Geneva region. It covers the municipalities of Prilly, Le-Mont-sur-Lausanne, Epalinges, Jouxtens-Mézery, Bottens, Morrens, Bretigny-sur-Morrens, Cugy, Froideville and Savigny. The transition is to take place gradually from May 2024 until around the end of the year.

    “By taking over SiL’s cable network for the surrounding Lausanne region and providing our services directly to the more than 17,000 connected households, we are ensuring the continuous supply of innovative services of the highest quality to our customers,” Sunrise CEO André Krause is quoted as saying. “We will also modernise the cable network and make it future-proof for both residential and business customers.”

  • Benetics presents strong growth

    Benetics presents strong growth

    Benetics has developed software that can be used to efficiently coordinate work on construction sites. Since entering the market in October 2023, the Zurich-based proptech has recorded strong growth. According to an article on startupticker.ch, 25 companies, mainly from the electrical industry, are already using Benetics’ digital application. Most of these are companies with 10 to 15 employees, while the largest customer has over 100 employees using the software.

    “Our app-based tool hardly needs any time for onboarding, makes construction plans digitally usable and, in addition to other functions, has photo documentation of the work done and an integrated intelligent translation service,” Benetics co-founder and CEO Ferdinand Metzler is quoted as saying in the article. Users can enter texts and voice messages in their native language. They are then automatically translated into the languages used by the other participants.

    Benetics is currently run by 13 people, nine of whom come from the development industry. Many of them, including the two other co-founders Aaron Shon and Johan Tibell, previously worked at Google, according to the article. “With our development team, we are quick to implement customer input,” says Metzler. The company also has extensive expertise in big data and artificial intelligence.

  • CANCOM Switzerland equips Grand Resort Bad Ragaz with new IT system

    CANCOM Switzerland equips Grand Resort Bad Ragaz with new IT system

    The IT services and trading company CANCOM Switzerland has installed the latest WiFi6 network infrastructure from Huawei at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. According to a press release from CANCOM, the old network of the 5-star hotel, which covers over 400,000 square metres, was replaced during ongoing operations with 80 switches, 500 access points, two physical firewalls from Palo Alto Networks and five virtual instances. In addition, two high-performance WLAN controllers and four highly functional management servers were implemented.

    The introduction of WiFi6 technology enables fast Internet and smooth communication across the entire site with its various buildings. According to CANCOM, the Grand Resort can also make its guests’ stay even more pleasant, for example with checkout terminals.

    The new network also reportedly gives the hotel’s IT team significantly greater flexibility and autonomy: “When guests brought their own IT equipment or needed their own separate network, it was always a major challenge,” says Reto Schwengeler, Head of Infrastructure and Security at the hotel. “With the old network environment, such adjustments involved a lot of effort and we were reliant on external support.” Now the in-house team benefits from a clearly organised iMaster management solution.

    Thanks to the “excellent collaboration” with CANCOM Switzerland, the project was successfully completed within a very short time. “In the past,” says Schwengeler, “we used to receive complaints almost every week. Today I hear nothing more.”

  • Increasing efficiency in property management through digital transformation

    Increasing efficiency in property management through digital transformation

    The property industry faces the challenge of adapting to rapid technological developments in order to remain competitive. Digital tools and platforms offer innovative solutions to optimise management processes and improve interaction with tenants. By implementing property management software, for example, incoming rent can be monitored, maintenance requests can be processed efficiently and communication with tenants can be digitalised. These systems make it possible to record relevant data centrally and make it available at any time, which speeds up decision-making processes.

    Another aspect of digital transformation is the use of data analysis and artificial intelligence to identify market trends and optimise portfolio management. Predictive analytics can help to forecast future market developments and make investment decisions based on sound data. In addition, digital technologies enable the creation of new services, such as virtual tours of properties, which are invaluable, especially in times of social distancing.

    The integration of smart home technologies into property management also offers significant benefits. Automated systems for heating, lighting and security can reduce operating costs and increase living comfort for tenants. At the same time, this increases the attractiveness of the property on the market.

    For a successful digital transformation, however, it is crucial that companies in the property sector not only invest in the right technology, but also train their employees accordingly. A willingness to adapt to new ways of working and continuous training are essential in order to fully exploit the benefits of digitalisation.

    In summary, the digital transformation of the property industry offers numerous opportunities to simplify processes, reduce costs and improve service for tenants. By making strategic use of digital technologies, property companies can increase their efficiency and secure a decisive advantage in a highly competitive market. It is time to seize the opportunities of digitalisation and lead property management into the digital age.

  • Piston machine to generate more electricity from waste heat

    Piston machine to generate more electricity from waste heat

    The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology(Empa) has awarded its former doctoral student Andyn Omanovic an Entrepreneur Fellowship. It is intended to contribute to the development of a new type of reciprocating machine that can be used to increase the generation of electricity from waste heat, Empa explained in a press release. The project will be realised by etavalve GmbH from Zurich, which was founded by Omanovic and hydraulics expert Wolfgang Schneider as a spin-off from Empa and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich(ETH).

    Currently, the conversion of waste heat into electricity is mainly carried out using turbines. However, turbines are “particularly effective for high temperatures and for power requirements of several hundred megawatts”, explains Omanovic in the press release. “But for temperature ranges of around 500 to 900 degrees, where waste heat is generated irregularly, and up to the power range of several megawatts, our reciprocating engine is better suited.”

    The start-up has already found a partner for an initial practical test in the form of energy supplier IWB in Basel. By the beginning of 2025, etavalve aims to have developed a pilot machine that IWB will use in the process of converting biomass into biochar. The lean gas produced during pyrolysis contains methane and gaseous pollutants and must be incinerated as required by law. An initial small series of piston machines for the combustion of lean gases is to follow shortly afterwards.

  • Innosuisse supports smartwindows

    Innosuisse supports smartwindows

    Innosuisse, the Swiss Agency for Innovation Promotion, is supporting smartwindows, a window construction company based in the St.GallenBodenseeArea. According to a press release, the development of the classico vinyl window, which was the first window in Switzerland to be awarded the eco1 certificate and was developed as part of an Innovation Booster, was recognised in particular.

    smartwindows intends to use the new investment to implement its Window 4 Zero Emission programme. If the proportion of recycled window profiles can be increased to 80 percent, CO2 emissions from residential buildings can be reduced by 10,000 tonnes per year. 60,000 tonnes of so-called grey emissions will be prevented and the circular economy established in the Swiss window market, according to the company’s press release.

    The advantages of the certified smartwindows-classico include its high proportion of 70 per cent recycled materials. Furthermore, the raw material is reused up to eight times. The window fulfils the high requirements of ecobau and Minergie-Eco and meets the first priority of ecoBKP and ecoDevis.

  • Digitalisation in the construction industry low investment, big impact

    Digitalisation in the construction industry low investment, big impact

    The construction industry is increasingly facing the challenge of making its processes sustainable and efficient. According to Moritz Lüscher, digitalisation plays a key role in achieving these goals. By optimising construction processes with digital tools, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can also strengthen their competitiveness without having to invest in large purchases.

    Digitalisation is increasingly influencing the awarding of construction contracts, with sustainability and digitalisation skills coming to the fore. SBV supports its members in harmonising the requirements of clients with their own skills and thus effectively implementing the digital transformation.

    The trend towards a sharing economy also offers new opportunities in the construction industry. Construction companies can efficiently share machinery and equipment, thereby saving costs and resources. Digital platforms, such as Faroo, make it easier to rent and hire construction equipment and promote the shared use of resources.

    In order to approach digitalisation strategically, it is crucial for construction companies to determine their level of digital maturity and develop a suitable strategy based on this. SBC supports this with personalised advice and tools for self-assessment and strategy development. The aim is to achieve a customised digital transformation, which can range from pure process automation to comprehensive digital master plans.

    Finally, the involvement of employees in the digital transformation process is of central importance. Promoting digital skills and creating a common understanding are essential in order to utilise the new technologies effectively and secure the company’s long-term success. Digitalisation in the construction industry will continue to gain in importance in the coming years. New technologies and requirements, such as AI and BIM, will drive the industry forward and model-based construction could become the new standard in ten years’ time. The SBC is endeavouring to prepare its members for this future and accompany them on the path to digital transformation.

  • Neustark achieves triple-digit growth

    Neustark achieves triple-digit growth

    Neustark generated sales totalling USD 10 million in the 2023 financial year, the Bern-based company specialising in the permanent storage of CO2 (Carbon Dioxide Removal, CDR) announced in a press release. This corresponds to year-on-year growth of 250 per cent. “In 2023, we successfully rolled out our innovative technology in Switzerland and abroad,” said Valentin Gutknecht, co-CEO and co-founder of Neustark, in the press release. “We were thus one of the first CDR providers to demonstrate that our business model of permanent CO₂ removal works both commercially and ecologically.”

    Neustark opened its first storage site in Germany in the past financial year. In the current financial year, ClimateTech plans to open a further 20 locations, including in Austria. Neustark currently has 14 capture and storage sites with a total annual capacity of 5,000 tonnes of CO2. This week, the company reached a new milestone, according to the press release: “The 1000th tonne of CO2 has been permanently removed.”

    The company, which was founded in 2019, aims to increase its total capacity to 1 million tonnes of CO2 per year by 2030. Neustark is also investing in new technologies to achieve this. The press release mentions the development of mobile plants that can be used more easily by construction material recyclers.

  • Titlis Bergbahnen relies on Schindler

    Titlis Bergbahnen relies on Schindler

    The Titlis is to receive a new railway line, a new observation tower and a new mountain station by 2028. Schindler is involved in the project, the globally active Lucerne-based specialist for lifts, escalators and moving walks announced in a press release. Specifically, Titlis Bergbahnen has commissioned Schindler to supply eight lifts and seven escalators.

    “We took great care to involve local and regional companies from Central Switzerland in the project,” said Norbert Patt, CEO of Titlis Bergbahnen, in the press release. Escalators and lifts were awarded to Schindler. “The experience, many years of collaboration and the offer convinced us.”

    In the press release, the Lucerne-based lift manufacturer emphasises the challenges of a construction site on a mountain. “The experience of our employees in such demanding projects is a decisive factor,” explains Schindler project manager Jonas Wyrsch. It is not only the work that is more difficult due to the weather and altitude. The logistics also have to be considered more carefully, as missing parts or tools have to be brought up the mountain in a time-consuming process. “The planning has to be perfect and every move has to be right,” says Wyrsch.

  • Dormakaba launches new key system

    Dormakaba launches new key system

    Dormakaba launches the pextra Q serrated key system. The new system is equipped with various elements to protect keys and lock cylinders, explains the internationally active locking technology company from Glattal in a press release. The market launch of pextra Q is planned for April this year.

    To increase copy protection, the serrated keys are equipped with a patented high-precision undercut in the key profile. The overlapping key profile makes it difficult to pick the lock. An optional active element is also available to prevent the use of illegal key copies. The locking cylinder is protected against drilling by hardened steel components.

    Each key is given its own code and can be assigned to a specific lock or locking system. Pextra Q is designed for use in series locking systems and simple to complex locking systems. The serrated key system can also be combined with electronic systems. For special requirements, dormakaba offers an extensive range of special functions and different cylinder shapes.