Software-Landschaften und Einsatz von digitalen Lösungen in Wohnungsunternehmen

The document titled "Software Landscapes and Use of Digital Solutions in Housing Companies" was published by the GdW Federal Association of German Housing and Real Estate Companies, featuring contributions from authors Claus Wedemeier, Arne Rajchowski, and Timo Wanke. This publication presents the results of a comprehensive survey conducted among housing companies in Germany, focusing on the current state of digitalization and the use of IT systems in the sector.

In a rapidly changing technological landscape, the software ecosystem and digital solutions have become essential for housing companies to effectively implement climate pathways, produce sustainability reports, and execute climate protection measures. The survey aims to provide a clear picture of the software landscapes currently in use and highlight the deployment of digital solutions across various areas of operation.

With a participation rate of over 40%, more than 1,000 companies from different regions and sizes contributed to the study, providing significant insights into the state of digitalization in the housing sector.

The document outlines the survey results in detail, starting with the IT infrastructure of the participating companies. Approximately 38.6% of housing firms manage their IT applications in-house, while 27% use Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions. The survey reveals that a quarter of the companies have shifted their central applications, including ERP systems, to the cloud, particularly among medium-sized firms.

In terms of ERP systems, 85.4% of respondents utilize a software solution for managing operational data and business processes, with Aareon’s Wodis Sigma being the most commonly used software, accounting for 35.1% of responses. The results indicate a strong reliance on established software solutions, particularly for core business processes.

Regarding digital communication with tenants, 45% of companies do not currently use any software solutions. However, there is a growing trend towards implementing tenant portals or apps, with 32% of firms planning to introduce such solutions. Aareon’s CRM system dominates this market, underlining the significance of effective communication tools in maintaining tenant relationships.

The survey also highlights the usage of digital archiving systems, with 53.6% of participants employing software for document management, while 69.3% of companies have yet to adopt software solutions for ESG reporting, indicating a gap in digital tools for sustainability initiatives.

The report addresses the integration of smart home technologies, revealing that only 4.3% of housing companies have implemented digital assisted living solutions. Furthermore, 8% of respondents have adopted digital energy management solutions, signifying limited advancements in this area despite the increasing importance of energy efficiency.

In terms of mobility, 9.9% of housing companies have installed package boxes for secure deliveries, while 31.5% outsource the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure to external service providers. This suggests a proactive approach to meeting the needs of tenants for modern conveniences.

The findings of this survey provide crucial insights for housing companies aiming to optimize their software landscapes and enhance their digital strategies. By understanding the current state of digitalization and the tools available, these companies can improve their operational efficiency and competitiveness in the evolving housing market. The GdW’s efforts in conducting this survey underscore the importance of collaboration among housing companies to share experiences and drive innovation in digital solutions.