This question was at the center of our neext Real Estate Fair Think Tank with our partner Schindler – bringing together industry experts to discuss the role of data, digitalization and artificial intelligence in the future of real estate and construction.

One thing became clear throughout the discussion: compared to many other sectors, real estate remains one of the least digitalized industries. Yet this gap also represents one of the greatest opportunities for innovation and transformation.
 

• One of the least digitalized industries – with huge potential. Compared to many other sectors, the real estate and construction industry still operates with relatively low levels of digitalization. This creates significant potential for efficiency gains, innovation and entirely new business models.
• You can’t simply pour AI over the existing world. Artificial intelligence cannot just be layered on top of current processes. First, we need to translate the built environment into structured data – only then can AI create real value.
• Transformation requires collaboration. To overcome fears and hesitation around digitalization and AI, the real estate sector needs to collaborate more closely. Sharing ideas, experiences and data will be key to accelerating progress across the industry.
  
   

MIPIM once again proved to be a great place for meeting inspiring people and building valuable new connections across the industry. The overall atmosphere was hopeful, yet somewhat cautious, shaped by the current market environment and global geopolitical developments.

A big thank you to our speakers William Ruh (PODIUM.io) and Florian Troesch (Schindler Group) for their valuable insights, and to all participants for the engaging discussion and exchange of perspectives.

The conversation made one thing clear: the future of real estate will be data-driven – and it starts with human focus, translating buildings, processes and cities into data.