In the consumerism industry, products are constantly being updated and changed to better suit the consumer. In the construction industry, it can be hard to find the perfect product that tackles the problems that contractors are actually dealing with. When the producer has personal experience with your field of expertise, the products are more likely to target the real issues.
Built by Builders, a network by ConCntric, offers construction technology solutions and education from experts who have actual experience in the industry. Steve Dell'Orto, founder and CEO of ConCntric discussed the coalition's goals and solutions offered to contractors and the industry as a whole in this Q&A.
Steven Dell'Orto, founder and CEO of ConCntric.ConCntric
What was the main goal in forming this coalition?
The Built by Builders coalition was created as a vital resource for an industry undergoing a profound technological transformation. Despite its central role in the global economy, construction has faced significant challenges, including lagging productivity, rising costs, and labor shortages. By connecting builders, developers, and designers with technology providers, like the members of this coalition who possess deep, firsthand industry experience, Built by Builders seeks to bridge this gap.
The coalition offers a trusted space where these professionals can collaborate on innovative solutions tailored to the realities of construction. Unlike generic tools, these solutions are informed by the nuanced challenges of the field, enabling a more seamless integration of technology into workflows. This approach not only addresses critical pain points but also empowers the industry to overcome barriers such as poor productivity growth—which has only improved by 10% globally since 2000, far behind other sectors—and meet the $40 trillion demand expected by 2040.
By fostering a supportive ecosystem, Built by Builders aims to help the construction sector achieve long-term gains, such as increased standardization, better project management, and stronger supplier ecosystems. Together, these efforts will enable the industry to build smarter, faster, and more efficiently, paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative future.
What can contractors gain from Built by Builders?
The AEC industry stands to gain significant value from Built by Builders, including access to advanced, industry-tailored technologies that address specific pain points like document compliance, safety management, preconstruction workflows, and trade coordination. Moreover, contractors can trust that these solutions are developed by experts with firsthand experience in the field, ensuring the tools are practical and user-centric.
The group also offers networking opportunities and educational resources, such as webinars, to help contractors seamlessly integrate these innovations into their operations.
What kinds of problems does the network expect to encounter?
The construction industry has historically been slow to embrace new technologies. Despite digital transformation being a priority for 71% of construction firms, adoption can be challenging due to the industry’s inherent complexity and fragmentation. Common barriers include concerns about upfront costs, the learning curve associated with unfamiliar tools, and skepticism about achieving measurable returns on investment. While these obstacles persist, companies have taken more measured steps to integrate technology into their processes, making a measurable difference in the performance of these companies. Additionally, companies tend to place greater trust in technology solutions when they learn that the founders of these solutions have firsthand experience within the construction industry. The benefits of adopting technology are profound, transforming productivity and efficiency across the industry.
Being one of the founders of Built by Builders, I’ve had firsthand experience addressing technological challenges. Over the past year, I have engaged with industry leaders across various sectors, actively listening to their concerns and demonstrating the tangible value of technology through real-world applications. Having faced similar hurdles in my own construction career, I and the built by builders' founding members bring an authentic and relatable perspective to the market. With this network, we are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between innovation and industry adoption.
How does Built by Builders plan to go about offering solutions?
Built by Builders will leverage the combined expertise of its members, all of whom have substantial construction experience, to design tools that resonate with the day-to-day realities of contractors. The group plans to host educational webinars, launch a dedicated website, and actively engage with contractors to identify their needs. By creating tools grounded in firsthand industry knowledge, Built by Builders ensures their solutions are intuitive, effective, and aligned with real-world workflows. Additionally, the group’s invitation-based membership model helps maintain a focus on companies that align with its core mission.
How can potential users gain access and get started?
Accessing Built by Builders starts with exploring its webinars and digital resources, which are designed to introduce contractors to the group’s solutions and provide a roadmap for adoption. Contractors or companies led by individuals with significant industry experience can also contact the group to inquire about joining or collaborating.
While membership is primarily invitation-based, the group is open to engaging with like-minded leaders who meet specific criteria, such as deep construction experience. Our website provides additional information on the network's mission.
What can contractors expect from Built by Builders in the future?
Contractors can anticipate a growing network of construction technology leaders and access to a suite of innovative tools tailored to their challenges.
The group has ambitious plans for 2025, including introducing new resources like webinars and collaboration opportunities. As Built by Builders grows, contractors can expect enhanced solutions that drive greater efficiency and improve outcomes for the built world.
What else should contractors know?
The “Built by Builders” network represents a unique opportunity for contractors to connect with industry leaders who understand the challenges they face firsthand. Each company within the network is dedicated to providing innovative solutions tailored to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and drive success in construction.
We invite you to explore these groundbreaking tools and technologies by visiting Clearstory, ConCntric, Document Crunch, Kaster, Plot, ProjectMark, Salus, and Togal.AI. Each company offers solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of contractors and make construction processes more efficient and effective.
We would also encourage contractors to sign up for ConCntric's newsletter to stay informed about the latest developments, success stories, and upcoming innovations. By joining the conversation and engaging with the Built by Builders ecosystem, you’ll gain access to resources, insights, and a community committed to driving transformation in the construction industry.
Take the next step toward innovation—feel free to connect with us today and see how Built by Builders can help elevate your projects to new heights.
