New Digital Platform for the Construction Tendering Phase

While project management and documentation in construction have largely been digitized, much of the tendering phase is still handled through emails, spreadsheets, and personal networks. This is why software company 12Build has developed a platform for the early phase of construction projects.

 

The platform supports the entire process, from searching for relevant subcontractors to having the contract ready for signature. Main contractors and design-build contractors can use the platform to obtain bids from subcontractors and compile their proposals for project owners, while subcontractors can more quickly assess which tasks match their competencies.

CEO Patrick Aarbodem

“It is a source-to-contract solution that makes the tendering phase simpler for both parties,” says Patrick Aarbodem, CEO of 12Build.

 

The company was founded in the Netherlands nearly 20 years ago and established itself in Denmark three years ago.

 

“We saw that Denmark faces many of the same challenges as the Netherlands. Labour shortages and rising costs create a need to work more efficiently,” he says.

 

Removing Time-Consuming Work

“Digitalization in the construction industry has come a long way, but the actual process of comparing prices and choosing the right specialists is still surprisingly manual in many places. That was the challenge we wanted to solve,” says Patrick Aarbodem.

 

12Build uses AI to analyze tender documents, identify relevant subcontractors, and compare incoming bids.

 

“Many tasks in the tendering phase can now be automated, such as reviewing PDF files to compare bids or checking whether a company has the necessary competencies and certifications. AI can do this in just a few minutes, while ultimately it is still people who make the decisions,” says Aarbodem.

 

He emphasizes that the contractor’s data remains within the 12Build platform.

 

Creating Value for Both Parties

With 12Build, subcontractors receive support in navigating tender documents and keeping track of requests. Main contractors and design-build contractors get a single platform with tools for comparing bids, managing tender rounds, and searching a structured network of business partners.

 

“When both parties can work more efficiently, the entire process improves, resulting in better projects and better financial outcomes for everyone involved,” says Patrick Aarbodem. The platform is available in Danish and English, and the company has local employees in Denmark.