Building connection between architect, contractor and consultant

'WE WANT TO REDUCE THE HIDDEN DISTANCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION CHAIN'

The construction supply chain is complex. Architects design, consultants advise, contractors execute, and manufacturers supply products. But somewhere in this chain, between design and execution, there is often an invisible gap. Thomas Keizer, Head of Development, and Jasper de Graaf, Marketing and Environmental Officer at Window Engineering recognize that gap. In an open conversation, they talk about their approach to reducing that hidden distance.

Why do you feel this gap so strongly?

Keizer: "Venster Techniek develops and manufactures under sills for wooden and plastic window frames. We are a technical partner for the window frame industry - and by extension also for the contractor, architect and consultant. But it is precisely with the latter three that we have little direct contact in practice. As a result, we do not always hear exactly what architects want, what consultants see as critical points, or what problems contractors encounter in practice. That limits our ability to develop truly targeted solutions. That is a pity, because it is precisely this insight that enables us to develop better, smarter products. Not standard solutions, but customized solutions that really work."

How do you want to improve that?

De Graaf: "By actively contacting architects, consultants and contractors. We don't want to skip anyone in the chain, but rather connect everyone better. In this way we want to gain more direct insight into wishes and bottlenecks. We like to think along from the beginning, so that together we develop solutions that are better suited to practice."

Does this mean you guys are passing the frame industry?

Keizer: "Absolutely not. The frame industry remains crucial and is an important connecting link. They remain an indispensable partner for us. Our ambition is a better flow of information. This benefits everyone: architects get better matched products, consultants clearer solutions, contractors less hassle on the building site and frame manufacturers a smoother process."

Have you had any concrete experience with this?

De Graaf: "Definitely. We recently worked with a frame manufacturer and a contractor on a specific project for an interior front door. Here the focus was not - as is often the case - on water and wind tightness, but on fire and noise resistance. Through intensive consultation with all parties, we were not only able to optimize our sill solution, but also refine the frame design. The result was perfectly tailored to the specific requirements of that project, with a high level of satisfaction among all involved."

What challenges do you still see?

Keizer: "The construction industry is changing rapidly: laws and regulations are becoming stricter, sustainability more important, and aesthetics are getting more and more attention. Without closer cooperation, it becomes increasingly difficult to meet all those requirements. Therefore, cooperation is not an option, but a necessity."

De Graaf adds: "We find that communication is still sometimes difficult. Architects and contractors are busy and don't always have direct contact with producers like us. That's why we want to make this contact accessible: we actively invite them to share their experiences and challenges with us."

What does this approach ultimately yield?

Keizer: "Better products that really match demand. Fewer failure costs, less frustration on the construction site and more satisfaction with the end result."

De Graaf: "It is a joint win. Innovation arises precisely through dialogue and cooperation. We can make good products, but only together can we ensure that those products fit perfectly into the whole."

Finally, how do you see the future?

Says Keizer, "We strongly believe in a future where all parties understand and strengthen each other better. Our goal is not only to make high-quality sills, but above all to build bridges in the chain."

De Graaf concludes enthusiastically, "Architects, consultants and contractors: get in touch, let's build better solutions together. That is the smart basis to build on. True to our motto: Window Technology. Smart base for building."