Digital transformation: Why are your consultants making you lose money?

November 8, 2024
10 min
Civalgo as an example of a digital shift in construction

In a world where digital technology is becoming the norm, the construction and civil engineering sector is no exception. Digital transformation in this field is not limited to the adoption of new technologies! It represents a complete revolution in working methods, project management, and communication with customers.

However, this digital shift is not without challenges. One of the major obstacles is the high cost of traditional consultants, whose services can sometimes be expensive without offering the expected results.

In the following lines, we'll explore the key grants available to facilitate your digital transformation, unveil the hidden costs of traditional consultants, and reveal how specialized experts in the construction and civil engineering sector, such as Civalgo, can radically transform your digital approach.

4 grants for a successful digital transformation

Digital transformation is a must for companies in the construction and civil engineering sector who want to remain competitive and efficient. Fortunately, several grant programs are available in Quebec and Canada to facilitate this transition, sometimes even proposed by the government. These grants are designed to alleviate the costs associated with adopting new technologies and modernizing processes. Let's take a closer look at the five grants that are most relevant to your business.

1. Canadian Digital Adoption Program (PCAN)

The Canadian Digital Adoption Program (PCAN) is a crucial initiative for Canadian SMEs. The main objective of this program is to support companies in the integration of digital technologies, an aspect that has become essential to remain competitive in the current economy.

With funding of up to up to $2400, the PCAN offers a valuable opportunity for companies in the building and civil engineering sector to develop essential digital tools. This includes creating or redesigning websites, implementing e-commerce solutions to facilitate online transactions, and investing in digital advertising to increase visibility and reach a wider audience.

The eligibility criteria are quite broad, as they include all Canadian for-profit businesses that interact directly with consumers, and require either having at least one employee or having generated at least $30,000 in annual revenue in the last fiscal year.

2. The Fund C

Initiated by the Desjardins Group in a context of post-Covid-19 economic recovery, it represents a significant opportunity for businesses in the construction and civil engineering sectors. This fund aims to stimulate the economic development of businesses by financing digital transition projects.

With financial assistance covering 25% of total project costs, up to a maximum of $20,000, the Background C is positioned as a strategic lever for companies wishing to accelerate their digitalization. Eligible projects include accelerating a company's digital transition, simplifying and optimizing processes through IT solutions such as installing an ERP or CRM, adding new distribution channels such as e-commerce platforms, and using digital transformation advice.

To benefit from this program, businesses must have a Desjardins bank account and operate in specific sectors such as retail, manufacturing, agriculture or agri-food.

3. ESSOR program

Designed to support the development of growing businesses, This program is particularly suited to the needs of the building and civil engineering sector. It aims to help businesses accelerate their growth or productivity, in particular through the digital transition.

With a non-refundable grant that can cover up to 50% of eligible expenses, and this, up to $100,000, the ESSOR Program is an invaluable resource for companies involved in significant investment projects. Eligible projects under this program include the development and implementation of digital transition plans, as well as major investments for business growth, with a minimum threshold of $100,000 in eligible expenses.

To be eligible, businesses must be for-profit and legally registered in Quebec, or be a Canadian business with an establishment in Quebec.

4. Regional Economic Growth through Innovation Program (CERI)

The CERI program is particularly suitable for supporting businesses in their digital shift, offering appropriate financial support.

For non-profit organizations (NPOs), the CERI offers non-refundable financial assistance that can cover up to 90% of eligible expenses. For SMEs, it offers interest-free repayable financial assistance, ranging from up to 50% of eligible expenses. Eligible projects under this program include the acquisition of equipment, the development of advertising campaigns for new markets or the marketing of products or services, the purchase of specific software, as well as the acquisition or development of new technologies.

Eligibility criteria apply to a wide range of entities, including SMEs, co-operatives, NPOs, business associations, business support organizations, and Indigenous organizations, with the exception of certain sectors such as retail.

Expensive consultants

In the current context of digital transformation, many businesses are turning to external consultants to guide and implement an effective digital strategy. While this approach may seem advantageous, it often comes with high costs that can weigh heavily on a company's financial resources, especially in specialized sectors such as construction and civil engineering.

Cost analysis

Traditional digital consultants often charge high rates for their services. The hourly cost can very quickly soar to a few hundred euros, or in some cases, a few thousand euros. Unfortunately, these costs add up quickly, especially when projects span several months or years. Moreover, using a specialist consultant does not always guarantee proportionate results, as they may not have a thorough understanding of the specificities of the building and civil engineering sector. This can create even more problems and additional costs!

Comparison with in-house solutions

In comparison, the development of internal skills or the use of specialized tools can represent a substantial saving. Investing in the training of existing employees as part of its digital transformation can be more profitable in the long run. In addition, the use of specialized tools, such as construction and civil engineering software, can significantly reduce outpatient costs. These tools are often designed to meet the unique needs of the industry, offering a more targeted and effective solution.

Use experts in construction and civil engineering

In the building and civil engineering sector, digital transformation requires specific expertise. The unique challenges of this sector require a tailored approach, which only professionals and specialized tools can effectively offer.

Civalgo's expertise

Civalgo is positioned as a key player in this field, offering a platform designed specifically for the needs of construction and civil engineering. Unlike traditional consultants, Civalgo combines a deep understanding of the sector with advanced technological solutions. This combination makes it possible to optimize processes, reduce operational costs, and improve project management. In addition, Civalgo facilitates the integration of new technologies, such as automation and data analysis, adapted to the requirements of these industries.

Practical and concrete benefits of using Civalgo

The use of our software brings practical and concrete benefits to companies in the sector. Among them:

  • Optimizing processes : Civalgo automates repetitive administrative tasks, allowing teams to focus on activities with higher added value.
  • Improving project management : The platform offers planning toolsn and more accurate project monitoring, facilitating the management of deadlines and resources.
  • Reduced operational costs : By streamlining processes and improving efficiency, we are helping to reduce overall costs.
  • Data-based decision making : Through integrated data analysis, Civalgo provides valuable insights for informed decision-making.
  • Flexibility and adaptability : The platform adapts to the specific needs of each company, offering a personalized solution.

In summary

Although consultants can provide external expertise, the associated costs can be prohibitive and may not always correspond to the specific needs of the construction and civil engineering sector. Businesses would benefit from considering alternatives such as strengthening internal skills or adopting specialized tools. Indeed, the adoption of specialized solutions like Civalgo is crucial for effective digital transformation. Implementing our software offers not only industry expertise, but also advanced technological tools that transform operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Opting for specialized solutions guarantees a more aligned, efficient and profitable strategy that precisely meets the needs of the sector.

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