EP 13: Eric Helitzer, Founder and CEO at SubBase
Slice of Construction Team
06/08/2024
Join us in this exciting episode of the Slice of Construction podcast, hosted by Jared S. Taylor! Our Guest: Eric Helitzer, Founder and CEO at SubBase. What you’ll get out of this episode:
- Eric Helitzer discusses the inefficiencies and manual workflows in subcontractor procurement.
- SubBase's user-friendly tool simplifies material purchasing for construction professionals.
- The importance of customer feedback in developing and refining SubBase.
- Key trends in construction procurement: connectivity, AI, and data analytics.
- SubBase's national expansion and future product developments.
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Introduction
In the latest episode of the Slice of Construction podcast, host Jared Taylor interviews Eric Helitzer, the founder and CEO of SubBase. Eric shares his journey from a third-generation builder to creating a revolutionary software that addresses the inefficiencies and manual workflows faced by subcontractors in managing their procurement processes.
Solving Procurement Inefficiencies
Eric Helitzer starts by explaining SubBase's core mission: to be the most user-friendly tool for solving inefficiencies, lack of visibility, and manual workflows in subcontractor procurement. He describes SubBase as a digitized solution that streamlines the long-winded procurement process, making it easier for subcontractors to manage their materials efficiently.
Origins and Development
Eric's journey into construction technology began with his family's construction business and his experience with the nation's largest specialty trade subcontractor. These roles exposed him to the challenges faced in procurement, particularly in the concrete shell space. This background led him to recognize the need for a more efficient solution, prompting the development of SubBase.
Bridging Technology and Construction
A significant challenge in construction technology is helping users unfamiliar with tech to adopt new tools. Eric emphasizes that SubBase aims to provide a frictionless experience that doesn't disrupt existing workflows. By offering a user-friendly interface and integrating AI to eliminate manual tasks, SubBase ensures quick adoption and ease of use.
Customer-Centric Development
Customer feedback is crucial for SubBase. Eric shares how their customer-centric approach has been instrumental in refining the platform. From small details like font choices to major feature requests, SubBase continuously evolves based on user input. This dedication to customer feedback has built a strong foundation for the platform's success.
Ensuring Data Security
Given the sensitivity of construction data, SubBase prioritizes data security and privacy. Eric details the measures taken to ensure data integrity and secure data flow between vendors and subcontractors. Maintaining trust and accuracy in data handling is paramount to SubBase's operations.
Future Trends in Construction Procurement
Eric highlights three key trends shaping the future of construction procurement: connectivity, AI, and data analytics. By integrating modern systems with legacy software, leveraging AI to automate manual tasks, and utilizing data analytics for better procurement decisions, SubBase aims to drive the next generation of construction technology.
What's Next for SubBase
SubBase is expanding nationally, partnering with large companies, and exploring new product developments. Future plans include extending beyond material purchasing to other aspects of the workflow, such as equipment rental and committed orders. SubBase also aims to support vendors, creating a dual ecosystem that benefits both subcontractors and suppliers.
Conclusion
Eric Helitzer's passion for innovation and customer-centric development drives SubBase's mission to revolutionize construction procurement. With a focus on simplifying workflows, ensuring data security, and leveraging AI, SubBase is poised to shape the future of construction technology. Stay tuned for more updates as SubBase continues to expand and evolve.
Upcoming Events
Eric mentioned that SubBase will be present at several industry events, including the Venture Miami Cafe, Procore Groundbreak, and CMIC Connect in Miami. These events provide opportunities for networking and showcasing SubBase's latest advancements.
Eric's enthusiasm for building and innovation shines through in his conversation with Jared, promising an exciting future for SubBase and its users.
