In an industry where efficiency and precision are paramount, Doka is setting a new standard with its groundbreaking AI solution, AI Counting & Identification. This proprietary technology is transforming how formwork and scaffolding materials are managed, bringing unprecedented speed, accuracy, and transparency to construction yards, according to the formwork and scaffolding manufacturer.

The proprietary AI solution automates the counting and identification of formwork and scaffolding materials and is already in use at over 50 Doka locations worldwide.

“Our AI service automatically identifies and counts materials in our yards,” says Robert Hauser, CEO of Doka. “This helps us to process returns faster, get equipment ready for use more quickly, and plan inventory more accurately.”

Hauser emphasises another key benefit: transparency. “AI allows us to establish an objective and traceable process that also improves communication. That builds trust with our customers,” he adds.

Until recently, returned rental materials were checked manually. This required a significant amount of time and effort. To improve the process, Doka developed AI Counting & Identification, supported by Microsoft’s technology expertise. The workflow is simple. A team member takes a photo of the materials with a mobile device. The AI recognises the product, suggests a count, and once confirmed, records the result along with the image. This creates a clear and reliable digital record.

More than 20 product categories are already supported, including scaffolding components, beams, props, and Framax panels. The system has been used more than 40,000 times, counting over 1.5 million items with an accuracy rate above 98 per cent.

The solution was designed specifically for construction environments and can even recognise soiled or heavily used rental items. This offers a clear advantage over RFID-based systems or off-the-shelf counting apps, according to Doka.

Although the system is currently used internally at Doka yards, the company sees strong potential for future use directly on construction sites. Early feedback and live demonstrations at bauma 2025, the leading global construction equipment fair held in April in Munich, Germany,  highlighted the immense value this service could bring, especially on large-scale projects with high material turnover.

AI is also a cornerstone of Doka’s broader digital strategy. The “Statistical Return Planning” tool, for example, is an internal forecasting system that leverages data to predict material returns, leading to more precise stock management and preventing shortages.

Doka 360: a new platform for the entire formwork process

Further demonstrating its commitment to digital transformation, the company last month (July) launched Doka 360, a new customer platform that connects every key stage of the formwork process. From planning and ordering to delivery and return, Doka 360 provides customers with real-time data from sensors embedded in formwork or concrete, enabling informed, data-driven decisions and full visibility.