In August, Massey University in Auckland welcomed Payapps NZ business development manager Andrew Waller as a guest lecturer for its third and fourth-year undergraduate quantity surveying students.
The session, which catered to students who are already professionals in the field, provided a comprehensive overview of the evolving role of technology in the construction industry. The discussion focused on how technological advancements, particularly platforms such as Payapps, are transforming critical processes and ensuring compliance with New Zealand’s Construction Contracts Act (CCA) and Retention Moneys Act.
The growing importance of technology in construction
The New Zealand construction industry is undergoing a significant shift as it moves away from traditional manual processes. During his presentation, Waller highlighted the pressing need for the sector to embrace digital solutions.
According to data from Payapps’ “Building the Future” report, 46% of industry professionals spend more than six hours per week on manual administrative tasks, and 26% still manage payment claims with spreadsheets and other manual tools.
These outdated methods hamper productivity and increase the risk of errors and disputes, which can lead to severe financial and reputational consequences.
Waller stressed that today’s construction projects require more than just traditional management methods. Integrated digital solutions, such as Payapps, provide real-time insights, streamline processes, and improve stakeholder collaboration. This shift towards technology is essential for maintaining efficiency and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Simplifying construction compliance
One of the key topics discussed was how Payapps supports compliance with the CCA and Retention Act in New Zealand. With regulations becoming increasingly complex, particularly concerning retentions, quantity surveyors need tools to meet all requirements without added administrative burden.
Waller explained how Payapps offers features such as retention fund tracking and detailed reporting, which help companies avoid non-compliance risks, including financial penalties and project delays.
The role of technology in shaping future quantity surveyors
Reflecting on the session, Waller shared his thoughts on the importance of engaging with future industry leaders. “It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm of Massey University’s students. They are keen to understand how technology can simplify their work and drive the industry forward. Supporting educational institutions like Massey University is crucial for us at Payapps, as we believe that investing in the next generation will contribute to a more efficient, innovative, and compliant construction industry.”
Students at Massey University explore the transformative potential of technology in quantity surveying, demonstrated through innovative tools such as Payapps, shaping the next generation of industry professionals.
The presentation also emphasised the importance of young professionals advocating for technological adoption within their organisations. With Payapps’ research indicating that 69% of industry respondents are open to new technologies that improve job efficiency, there is a clear opportunity for the next generation to lead this digital transformation.
By embracing tools such as Payapps, quantity surveyors can reduce time spent on administrative tasks, minimise errors and, ultimately, enhance the quality and efficiency of their projects.
Shaping the future of construction
The session at Massey University was not just about introducing Payapps but about inspiring the next generation of construction professionals to embrace the tools that will define the industry’s future. As the sector continues to evolve, integrating technology such as Payapps will be essential for ensuring project success and compliance with industry standards.
For more information on how technology is transforming the construction industry, visit the Payapps web site, or explore the latest insights from their “Building the Future” report.
