Services

Definition: What is a Service?

A service is an intangible good where creation and consumption occur simultaneously (uno actu principle). Unlike physical products, its value arises directly at the moment of provision – for example, in the form of consulting, support, or assistance. Services are characterized by being tailored to the individual needs of the client and often directly influence processes and outcomes. The service provider commits to performing the agreed activity and bears responsibility for quality and customer satisfaction.

Significance of Services in Project and Cost Management

In the construction and real estate sector, services play a central role. They make a significant contribution by:

• Directly applying expert knowledge and experience to projects,
• Making processes more efficient and transparent,
• improve the quality of decisions,
• Guiding and supporting clients through complex matters.

Services constitute a component of the service sector, a critical economic segment distinct from manufacturing and goods production.

Typical Characteristics of a Service

• Intangibility: Services are intangible goods that cannot be physically touched. Their value is realized directly through service delivery.
• Principle of Simultaneity: The production and consumption of the service occur simultaneously.
• Customization: Services are individually adapted to the needs and requirements of the client.
• Nature of the relationship: The quality and value of a service depend on competence, experience, and communication between the service provider and the customer.
• Inseparability: Service and service provider are often closely linked, requiring personal interaction.
• Non-storability: Unlike goods, services cannot be stored or transported.

Types of Services

Services can be categorized based primarily on the nature of client involvement and their relationship to tangible products:

• Personal Services: These services are rendered directly to or in collaboration with the client, who may be actively or passively involved. Typical examples include hairdressing appointments or medical consultations.
• Asset-related Services: The primary focus here is on customer benefit, without requiring active customer involvement in service delivery. An example is vehicle repair.
• Ancillary Product Services: These complement tangible products and provide customers with additional service. This includes pre-sales services such as pre-purchase consultation, as well as after-sales services like maintenance and repair.
• Primary Services: These are offered by companies that exclusively provide services and do not produce physical goods, such as management consultancies.

Services in Real Estate and Construction Project Contexts

In the real estate and construction industry, services are versatile, ranging from planning and consulting to project management and financial controlling. Examples:

• Consulting: Support in structuring projects and processes.
• Project Control: Guidance for Building Owners and developers in complex construction projects.
• Controlling Services: Analysis and optimization of cost and fund utilization.
• Digital Transformation: Implementation of software solutions to enhance efficiency.

Related Terms

• Consulting
• Service
• Support
• Project control
• Process Optimization

PROBIS Services

As part of its services, PROBIS offers comprehensive consulting and support for the digitalization of cost management. Clients benefit from:

• Structuring Cost Processes: Establishing transparent and traceable structures.
• Process Optimization: Increased efficiency through automation and digitalization.
• Tailored Consulting: Support tailored to the specific requirements of construction and real estate projects.
• Implementation Support: Practical assistance with the introduction and use of PROBIS software solutions.

Through these services, PROBIS helps its clients to rethink cost management, minimize risks, and establish the foundation for successful projects.

Conclusion: What is a Service?

Services are intangible deliverables provided in close collaboration with the client, directly generating value. Within the PROBIS context, this translates to practical consulting and support for the digitalization of cost management, aiming to sustainably structure and optimize cost processes.