specter automation expands to Japan

Construction tech startup specter automation is pleased to announce its expanded entry into the Japanese market. With the implementation of its 3D construction site control software at the renowned Kajima Corporation, specter automation underlines its international growth strategy and its position as a global provider of innovative solutions for the construction industry.

As the country of origin of the Toyota Production System (TPS), Japan laid the foundations for the LEAN construction methods that are now used worldwide with its culture of lean management. As a technological pioneer, the country therefore offers enormous opportunities for digital transformation in the construction industry. The Japanese market is not only one of the largest in the world, but is also characterized by a high affinity for digitalization and innovation. By using its globally recognized solutions, specter automation is now also striving to significantly increase the efficiency and productivity of construction projects in Japan.

International partnerships to improve construction processes

"Since our foundation in May 2021, we at specter automation have seen ourselves as an international company," says Oliver Eischet, co-founder and CEO. This is also how the initial contact with the renowned Kajima Corporation in Silicon Valley came about at an event organized by the global venture capitalist Plug and Play, which specter automation attended in 2022. Unlike most construction companies from the DACH region, large Japanese construction companies such as Kajima, Shimizu and Takenaka maintain so-called innovation offices there. These specialize in being close to the most advanced technologies and companies, scouting start-ups and identifying and implementing innovative solutions for their company.

The initial contact with Kajima was followed by further reciprocal visits in Germany and on site in Japan. This eventually led to a partnership in which Kajima Corporation integrated specter automation into its projects in the Kansai area of Japan. These projects include a high-rise building, a production facility for a major semiconductor manufacturer and an exhibition center.

The specter software enables the transition from traditional 2D construction site control methods using pen and paper to semi-automated construction site control using a 3D model. According to Kajima, this saves around one hour of manual work per user every day and significantly increases efficiency.

Processes before and after the introduction of specter

Before the introduction of specter, project information at Kajima was managed through a combination of Excel spreadsheets, handwritten notes and edited 2D drawings. These methods were standardized, but inefficient and error-prone.

Following the introduction of specter software, Kajima uses 3D models for key construction processes such as weekly planning, communication and progress documentation. specter also improves Kajima's meetings through real-time updates and comprehensive project overviews, which has significantly improved decision-making.

Hidekazu Takeuchi, General Manager of the Productivity Enhancement and Technical Support Group of Kajima's Kansai Branch, emphasizes:

Advantages of the specter software for Kajima

The introduction of specter software at Kajima has led to significant efficiency gains. The main benefits include:

Time savings: around an hour a day is saved on manual planning and updating tasks.

Future-proofing processes: New employees can be trained more quickly and existing employees benefit from improved qualifications.

Increased transparency and efficiency: Thanks to clear visualization, it is immediately clear in every construction process what needs to be done by whom and when.

You can also find more information in our case study with the Kajima Corporation.

Building on the success of the partnership with Kajima, specter automation is now in talks with other Japanese construction companies to drive forward market entry.

About Kajima Corporation

Founded in 1840, Kajima Corporation is one of Japan's oldest and most renowned construction companies with a turnover of around 2.53 trillion yen (approx. 16.32 billion euros), of which around 70% is generated in Japan and 30% in the global market, and over 19,810 employees. Known for its technological expertise, Kajima realizes complex projects ranging from skyscrapers to infrastructure and sustainable buildings. With offices worldwide, the company is driving digital transformation in the construction industry.

Über specter automation

specter automation is an innovative software company from Cologne that specializes in the development of technologies for the digitalization and automation of construction processes. The cloud-based platform enables data-supported construction site management that focuses on 3D models. Since its foundation in May 2021, specter has established itself as a leading provider in the construction tech industry and works with international construction companies such as HochTief, Implenia, Strabag and traditional SMEs to maximize efficiency on construction sites.