Digital Crafts

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HWK Trier | October 2026

State-funded business trip to Luxembourg

The state of Rhineland-Palatinate is promoting a business trip to Luxembourg to establish new contacts and business opportunities for the skilled trades – including in the Trier chamber district.

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Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts | October 2026

Email security: Reducing risks

Emails are among the most common entry points for cyberattacks and ransomware. How can companies better secure their email communication while simultaneously raising employee awareness of potential threats?

Photo: © WIN Emscher-Lippe

Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts | October 2026

Labor market conference: Chamber of Skilled Crafts sets impulses for training and businesses

How can skilled workers be secured and more young people attracted to vocational training? At the Ruhr Area Labor Market Conference in Gelsenkirchen, the Münster Chamber of Skilled Crafts (HWK) presented the perspective of the skilled trades.

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Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts | October 2026

Successfully integrating employees from abroad

In a free online event on November 10th, the Koblenz Chamber of Skilled Crafts and Trades (HwK Koblenz) will inform craft businesses about the integration of international employees.

Photo: © Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/ Jochen Günther

Operations Management | October 2026

ISH 2027 showcases trends in building technology

The ISH trade fair will take place in Frankfurt am Main from March 15th to 19th, 2027. The fair will focus primarily on installation, heat generation, drinking water hygiene, bathroom design, digitalization, and building operation.

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Operations Management | October 2026

Funding and energy saving calculators provide quick guidance

Buderus provides free online tools that allow for an initial assessment of subsidies, costs and savings potential for heating system modernization and building renovation.

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Operations Management | October 2026

Minimum training allowance: The new rates for 2027 have been set.

For apprentices who begin their training between January 1st and December 31st, 2027, the minimum remuneration in the first year of training will increase by almost 5,6 percent.

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Operations Management | October 2026

Ottobock and Würth want to bring exoskeletons more into the skilled trades.

"SUITX by Ottobock" is expanding its activities in the construction and trade sectors. The exoskeleton provider intends to further leverage the Europe-wide sales and consulting network of Adolf Würth GmbH & Co. KG for this purpose.

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Crafts policy | October 2026

Income tax: ZDH calls for greater tax relief

In light of the upcoming debate in the Bundestag on the federal government's income tax reform, the skilled trades sector is demanding more relief for businesses and employees.

Photo: © AOV NRW / Photography Annette Hauptmann

Crafts policy | October 2026

Annual meeting of opticians and optometrists in November

The annual meeting of the Association of Opticians and Optometrists of North Rhine-Westphalia will take place in Dortmund on November 15th.

Photo: © Holzbau Deutschland/Rolando Laube

Crafts policy | October 2026

Change in management at Holzbau Deutschland

Rainer Kabelitz-Ciré managed the business of Holzbau Deutschland for nearly a quarter of a century. Now he has retired. His successor brings a wealth of experience in the carpentry trade.

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Crafts policy | October 2026

The Packaging Act is to be simplified

The Environment Committee in the European Parliament voted in favor of simplifying the controversial packaging regulation for micro and small businesses. The skilled trades sector welcomes this, but is calling for further changes.

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Operations Management | October 2026

Draft law: New rules for liability after traffic accidents

A draft law from the Federal Ministry of Justice aims to regulate liability after traffic accidents more fairly. In the future, for example, it should no longer make a difference whether the other car is leased.

Photo: © Mercedes-Benz

Electric drives | October 2026

New e-vans and a digital ecosystem

Mercedes-Benz Vans presents new modular electric transporters as well as the Mercedes-Benz PRO business ecosystem for commercial customers.

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Commercial vehicles | October 2026

TÜV report: One in five commercial vehicles fails the test

One in five commercial vehicles fails its mandatory vehicle inspection. Heavy trucks are particularly affected. The TÜV Commercial Vehicle Report 2026 reveals the biggest weaknesses.

Photo: © Atout France

Panorama | October 2026

"We want to promote France as a four-seasons destination"

Interview with Frédéric Meyer, Regional Director at the French tourism agency Atout France in Germany.

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Panorama | October 2026

1Live Sector Report: "We need to talk about death"

In its week-long sector report, the radio station 1Live dedicates itself to the topic of death on the radio and online – from grief to the profession of undertaker.

Photo: © Filip Dujardin for Design Museum Ghent

Travel | October 2026

Design Museum Ghent celebrates reopening

The Design Museum Gent officially reopened its doors on October 3, 2026, after a four-year transformation phase, presenting a radically new concept as a vibrant place for social discourse.

Photo: © Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/ Jochen Günther

Trade fairs for the skilled trades | October 2026

ISH 2027 showcases trends in building technology

The ISH trade fair will take place in Frankfurt am Main from March 15th to 19th, 2027. The fair will focus primarily on installation, heat generation, drinking water hygiene, bathroom design, digitalization, and building operation.

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Current building regulations | October 2026

Warning: How tradespeople can avoid liability traps

Any tradesperson working on a construction site who wants to protect themselves from liability for the mistakes of others must inform the client of any concerns they may have regarding the preliminary work of other trades. We explain how to formulate and submit these concerns correctly.

Photo: © Strauss

New tools for the trades | October 2026

Strauss presents AI-powered tool glasses for the trades

At the end of September, Henning Strauss, CEO and brand manager of Strauss, presented an AI-supported tool glasses that is scheduled to go on the market in 2027.

Photo: © Brillux

Workwear: How to dress correctly | October 2026

Brillux expands range of painter's workwear

Brillux has revised its painter's collection and added further workwear and accessories.

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Digital Crafts Theme specials

The German Crafts Journal provides tips on how digitalization can be implemented in craft businesses.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2026

Smart surveillance with energy-autonomous cameras

Industry 4.0: Monitoring construction sites without a power supply is a challenge for businesses. The solution lies in special cameras powered by solar or fuel cell technology, enabling them to operate independently of energy sources around the clock.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2026

Google & Co. are listening: Voice search and AI

Crafts 4.0: More and more customers and skilled workers are searching for craft businesses via voice assistants or AI tools. To ensure your business is found, your website must be search engine optimized.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2026

Digital occupational safety solutions: Safety through new technologies

Industry 4.0: Digital occupational safety solutions can make construction sites, workshops, and assembly areas safer. Businesses can benefit from wearables, sensors, and apps. But what are the advantages and disadvantages?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2026

One device for everything? Foldable smartphones in everyday work life.

Industry 4.0: from technological trend to practical application. With large displays, foldable smartphones open up new possibilities for planning, documentation, and communication. But what should businesses consider when buying one?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2026

AI-powered website builder for craft businesses

Industry 4.0: AI-powered website builders promise fast and cost-effective solutions. Complete websites are supposed to be created in just a few minutes. But how good are the results, and what should you look out for?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2026

Recruiting in the skilled trades: Digital ways to attract skilled workers

Crafts 4.0: Recruiting in the skilled trades is at a turning point. Traditional methods are losing their effectiveness, while digital channels are opening up entirely new reach and target groups.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2026

Digital apprenticeship search without wasted effort

Industry 4.0: Low birth rates and a growing need for qualified skilled workers. This is why specialized apprenticeship portals are gaining in importance.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2026

How to attract and integrate international professionals

Industry 4.0. The shortage of skilled workers is forcing many companies to look for staff beyond national borders. This is bringing talent from abroad more into focus. But how can they be successfully recruited and integrated?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2026

Mobile security: Effective protection through MDM in the skilled trades

Industry 4.0: The mobile freedom offered by smartphones and tablets increases the risk of data loss and cyberattacks. Mobile Device Management (MDM) enables businesses to reliably protect their devices.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2026

Reimagined continuing education: Digital learning platforms with AI

Crafts 4.0: Regular professional development is often a challenge for craft businesses. Digital learning platforms with AI promise simple solutions. But how do they work? And what should businesses pay attention to?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2026

Open Source as a building block of the digital strategy

Industry 4.0: Open-source software is a key component of digital processes in many companies. These free solutions open up new possibilities for making processes more efficient and cost-effective. But what should you look out for?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2025

Google rewards professional expertise and user-oriented design.

Industry 4.0: Google sets new priorities: AI-based answers are displacing traditional search results. Businesses that want to remain visible must strategically adjust their websites.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2025

Mobile phone tariffs: Tips for switching

Industry 4.0: Falling prices for mobile phone plans, improved included services and new flexible freedoms through so-called "Unlimited on Demand" plans: What should businesses pay attention to when concluding a contract?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2025

More security with password managers

Industry 4.0: Strong passwords are the best protection for online access and company data on the internet. Password managers quickly create order and security.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2025

Intelligent building technology for craft businesses

Crafts 4.0: How can craft businesses exploit the full potential of smart building technology in terms of comfort, cost savings, and energy efficiency?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2025

Cyber insurance for tradesmen

Industry 4.0: The consequences of a digital attack can be existential threats for businesses. Specialized cyber insurance policies promise protection. But what risks do they cover – and what should businesses consider when taking out a policy?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2025

Smart door locks: More access control and less administration

Craftsmanship 4.0: Thanks to digital systems, tradespeople automatically benefit from increased security and more efficient processes without the hassle of keys – but what should businesses pay attention to when buying them?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2025

Work better on the go: The latest notebooks

Crafts 4.0: When purchasing a notebook, tradespeople have a choice between different equipment classes. In addition to classic laptops, there are also rugged construction site notebooks, AI-optimized devices, and convertibles.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2025

Subscribe instead of buy: What are the benefits of "Software as a Service"?

Industry 4.0: In the past, businesses usually had to buy new software. Today, subscribing to "Software as a Service" (SaaS) solutions is offered as an alternative – or sometimes even as the only option. But what are the advantages and disadvantages?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2025

Visually appeal to and convince professionals

Crafts 4.0: Video recruiting, as a modern form of attracting skilled workers, offers companies the opportunity to present themselves as attractive employers on social media platforms.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2025

The right channels to reach young people

Crafts 4.0: Every year, around 20.000 apprenticeships in the skilled trades remain unfilled. A study suggests that many companies are searching in the wrong channels.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2025

Wi-Fi alarm and monitoring systems

Trade 4.0: Wi-Fi alarm systems offer a flexible and cost-effective way to protect business premises. But what do they do? What are the advantages and disadvantages? And how are the systems protected against attacks?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2024

Work more efficiently on the go: The latest tablets

Craftsmanship 4.0; Tablets have become indispensable tools for tradespeople in recent years. The latest generation of devices now offers larger displays, faster processors, and more storage space for efficient work.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2024

Inspire customers, specialists and trainees with live streaming

Crafts 4.0: Live streaming is currently one of the hottest social media trends. Portals like Twitch.tv offer completely new opportunities to attract customers, skilled workers, and trainees. How do you get started?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2024

Better connected with current Wi-Fi routers

Crafts 4.0: Your company's network should function reliably, quickly, and securely at all times. Wi-Fi routers play a key role here: The latest models now offer Wi-Fi 7, enhanced security, and up to two integrated modems.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2024

Competitive advantages through the metaverse

Crafts 4.0: The metaverse promises entirely new learning and work opportunities – thanks to the merging of virtual worlds with the real world. But how can skilled trades businesses benefit from this?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2024

Smart building technology: More efficiency, comfort and security

Crafts 4.0: With digital building technology, businesses can increase cost efficiency and comfort in offices and workshops. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of smart solutions? And what should you consider when purchasing?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2024

Using digitalization to combat the shortage of skilled workers

Skilled Crafts 4.0: The shortage of skilled workers is one of the most prevalent issues in the skilled trades. Companies can address this with targeted digitalization.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2024

Best image quality: Monitors for the office and home office

Crafts 4.0: Current technologies like mini-LED and OLED promise improved image quality. But how can you benefit from these innovations? And what are affordable alternatives for simple office work?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2024

Take action against negative online reviews

Crafts 4.0: Negative online reviews damage a business's image and drive away customers. However, many portals don't allow for simple deletion. How can you take action against bad reviews?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2024

Protect mobile devices as best as possible

Crafts 4.0: Sensitive data is particularly vulnerable on smartphones and tablets. Only with the right security measures can all information remain protected – from hackers, thieves, and our own forgetfulness.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2024

More customer service plus time savings with online appointment booking systems

Crafts 4.0: Around 75 percent of all customers prefer to book appointments with service providers online – this has been confirmed by numerous studies in recent years, for example by Forsa and GetApp. Therefore, many businesses are already taking advantage of the practical options offered by online appointment booking.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2024

AI – how craftsmen benefit in their everyday business

Crafts 4.0: Artificial intelligence (AI) may still be in its infancy, but craftspeople can already benefit from digital support. What specific profitable applications are there for businesses?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2024

On the go with the online office: The latest smartphones

Crafts 4.0: Current smartphone models promise craftspeople cutting-edge technology and more efficient work on the go. But what do the latest devices really do? And how capable are rugged devices for harsh environments?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2023

ChatGPT: Save time and money with AI

Crafts 4.0: With ChatGPT's artificial intelligence, craftspeople can significantly accelerate text-based processes in their daily work. But in which areas is its use worthwhile?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2023

Work online anywhere: The cloud-based craftsman office

Crafts 4.0: With solutions like Google Workspace or ToolTime, craftspeople can complete their office and organizational tasks in the cloud. But what are the advantages and disadvantages?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2023

Bridging Wi-Fi gaps via power grid

Crafts 4.0: A reliable internet connection is essential for businesses. If Wi-Fi is disrupted, a powerline connection can provide a solution.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2023

Convince customers and professionals with Pinterest

Crafts 4.0: Around 16 million Germans use Pinterest as a social network and search engine for visual content. Craftspeople, in particular, find it ideal for reaching customers, apprentices, and skilled workers with their own content.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2023

High-speed internet access: Fiber optic connections for tradespeople

Crafts 4.0: Fast downloads, rapid uploads, and short response times – fiber optics guarantees high-performance and stable internet connections. But how can crafts businesses switch to this technology? And what are the costs involved?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2023

Chatbots as digital service employees

Crafts 4.0: They are available around the clock, answer customer questions, and schedule appointments online. Chatbots on their own websites can relieve crafts businesses of a lot of work in terms of communication and service.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2023

Social recruiting in social networks

Skilled Trades 4.0: In times of skilled labor shortages, more and more companies are discovering social networks to reach out to new employees and trainees. But how does "social recruiting" work for skilled trades businesses?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2023

The path to a digital craft business

Software providers offer numerous digital tools and solutions to improve workflows and processes. But how can tradespeople identify what they need?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2023

E-books: Your own library always with you

Crafts 4.0: Technical books, manuals, and reference works are everyday companions for many craftspeople. E-books make their own libraries particularly mobile. But how can businesses use e-books efficiently in their work?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2023

Digitalization: Inspiring employees to benefit

Crafts 4.0: Digitalization means much more than just implementing new technology. A particularly important component is the company's own employees. But how can skilled trades businesses inspire their own team to embrace digitalization?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2023

Work more efficiently with quality management software

Crafts 4.0: By continuously optimizing processes and workflows, craft businesses not only improve their quality but also save time and money in the long term.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2023

Hot specialties: smart fully automatic coffee machines

Craftsmanship 4.0: Smart fully automatic coffee machines offer craft businesses a real increase in convenience. They prepare a wide variety of specialty coffees without having to press any buttons – via app or voice control.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2023

How to make video conferences with customers and employees successful

Crafts 4.0: Video conferencing with customers and employees has become established in businesses since the coronavirus pandemic. But what should craftspeople keep in mind when conducting professional online meetings?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2022

Communicate professionally and efficiently digitally

Crafts 4.0: According to recent studies, most customers prefer digital channels for communicating with companies. What should businesses pay attention to? How can they save time and money through clear concepts?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2022

The power of images: Instagram for craftsmen

Industry 4.0: Instagram has risen to become the second largest social network in recent years. But how does Instagram marketing work? And how can you get employees and customers excited about your business?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2022

Consciously switch off: Breaks with Digital Detox

Crafts 4.0: Conscious breaks from digital media maintain employees' health and performance in the long term. But how do companies find a good balance between advancing digitalization and digital detox?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2022

Network more efficiently: Save time with social media tools

Crafts 4.0: While using social media channels is free, it still costs craft businesses something – namely, time. Social media tools can cleverly minimize the time required.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2022

New trends in search engine optimization

Crafts 4.0: Current trends promise higher rankings in search results like Google. But how can craftspeople improve their position in search engines?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2022

Applications and interviews via the Internet

Skilled Trades 4.0: Online applications are commonplace. Webcam interviews have also become standard practice in many industries since the coronavirus pandemic. But what should companies consider to optimally target apprentices and skilled workers online?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2021

Mobile network: How tradespeople benefit from 5G

Trades 4.0: The next-generation mobile network promises significantly faster internet access and real-time data exchange. Is the switch already worthwhile for tradespeople? And how much do the new plans cost?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2021

Let us clean: Robot vacuum cleaners for construction sites, workshops and offices

Trades 4.0: Floor cleaning typically plays a secondary role in the trades, but businesses need to clean almost daily. Robot vacuums can significantly reduce personnel requirements in this area. What should you consider when purchasing?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2021

Reaching younger target groups: Influencer marketing for tradespeople

Industry 4.0: More and more companies are hiring YouTube or Instagram stars as "influencers" for high-reach advertising. This allows them to specifically target younger audiences.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2021

Online competitor analysis: What are your competitors doing?

Crafts 4.0: How successful is your online marketing compared to your competitors? A detailed competitor analysis provides the answer, revealing all strengths and weaknesses.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2021

Find more skilled workers and trainees with "Google for Jobs"

Skilled Trades 4.0: Optimizing websites for search engines is a given these days. But businesses should also optimize their online job postings.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2021

Local search: Be found more easily with online business directories

Crafts 4.0: For a long time, listings in online business directories were considered of little use. Now, company listings offer a significant advantage: they can greatly improve rankings in local search results. Here's what you should consider!

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2021

Online price comparison: Reduce operating costs with the Internet

Trades 4.0: The operating costs of tradespeople have risen significantly in recent months. At the same time, the coronavirus pandemic has caused revenue losses in many industries. A quick solution for reducing operating costs: online price comparison portals. But what's the best savings strategy?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2021

More performance at lower prices: Current smartphone tariffs

Crafts 4.0: Prices for smartphone plans have dropped significantly in recent years and include significantly more included services. At the same time, prepaid annual packages are becoming increasingly popular, with data allowances that no longer expire at the end of the month.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2021

Successfully through the lockdown with digital helpers

Crafts 4.0: During the lockdown, many skilled tradespeople are unable to work at all or can only work under difficult conditions. Digital assistants promise rapid support: With free apps and software tools, businesses can save significant time and money – on the go, in the office, and from home.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2021

The office always with you: modern tablet PCs

Crafts 4.0: Tablets are becoming increasingly powerful and are positioning themselves as serious competitors to notebooks. But what do current top-of-the-line devices do? Can you save money on new purchases? And what should you look out for?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2021

Online reviews: More success with digital recommendations

Crafts 4.0: Online reviews are an important factor for your company's success – not only when selling products and services, but also in online job boards.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2021

Mobile first: Is your website fit for the future?

Industry 4.0: Google is setting clear priorities for the future. By the end of March 2021, the search engine intends to significantly devalue all websites in its search index that are not optimized for display on mobile devices.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2021

GPS tracker: Keep an eye on tools, machines, and equipment

Crafts 4.0. The theft or loss of expensive tools, machinery, and goods is not uncommon in craft businesses. But there is a helpful remedy: mobile GPS trackers that enable worldwide location tracking.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2020

3D printing: Easily print work materials and spare parts yourself

Crafts 4.0: 3D printing offers numerous applications for craftspeople: From spare parts to tools, many things can be easily produced in-house. But how does 3D printing work, and what are its applications?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | November 2020

Interview: "Non-digital craftsmanship exists anymore"

Industry 4.0: Those who don't embrace digitalization now risk falling behind. Christoph Krause discusses the challenges and opportunities of digitalization in this interview.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2020

Small helpers in everyday work life – smartwatches

Industry 4.0: Smartwatches have become little multi-talented devices. These digital assistants on the wrist really shine when used in conjunction with a smartphone. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of the different models? And what should you look out for when buying one?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2020

Wireless networking in the workplace - making optimal use of WLAN

Industry 4.0: Many tradespeople's offices are now wirelessly networked: Most devices simply connect to the internet via Wi-Fi. But how can businesses make optimal use of their Wi-Fi network? And how can they achieve greater range?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2020

Mobile navigation systems and apps

Trades 4.0: Navigation systems are now standard equipment for tradespeople to find the optimal route to construction sites and customers. For cars without a built-in navigation system, external systems or corresponding smartphone apps are recommended.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2020

Reaching new target groups – local advertising on the internet

Industry 4.0: Targeted advertising? Thanks to the internet, it's no problem! When businesses want to specifically target customers, trainees, or skilled workers, local online ads can quickly reach the right audience. But how does it work? And what should you pay attention to?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2020

Targeted employee training through e-learning

Industry 4.0: Craft businesses can provide targeted support for their employees with customized training programs. E-learning measures are particularly popular. But how can businesses save time and money with this new form of learning?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2020

Home office: Transfer data securely from home

To ensure data is transferred securely from home offices, craft businesses should use a "virtual private network"—or VPN for short. With a little technical knowledge, even laypeople can set it up in just a few minutes.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2020

Software for the digital craftsman's office

Working from home only becomes truly efficient with the right software. Cloud solutions are recommended so that all employees can collaborate regardless of location and have access to the same data.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2020

Home office: Working efficiently at home

During the coronavirus crisis, tradespeople must also take special measures to protect customers, partners, and employees from health risks. To reduce direct contact, many administrative and coordination tasks can be outsourced to home offices, for example.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2020

Video conferencing: Personal conversations via the Internet

Crafts 4.0: When face-to-face meetings aren't possible, craftspeople can easily stay in touch with employees and customers via video conferencing. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops usually already have all the necessary features built in.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2020

Modern smartphones – the office in your pocket

Industry 4.0: To ensure that mobile work doesn't become a test of patience for tradespeople, performance and speed are paramount when they're on the go. But what can current top-of-the-line devices like the Samsung Galaxy S20 or iPhone 11 actually do? And are there any alternatives?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2020

Optimize company website to secure skilled workers

Crafts 4.0: The internet is the number one source of information for trainees and skilled workers. Employers need to present themselves optimally online. This includes an appealing website.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2020

Protection against spam emails

Crafts 4.0: Unsolicited advertising emails are annoying and cost real money. Despite spam filters, employees in many craft businesses have to invest more and more time sorting through and deleting these digital messages.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2020

Practical construction site apps

Trades 4.0: Take advantage of digitalization not only in the office, but also on the construction site: There are many practical apps specifically for tradespeople that save valuable working time on-site with the customer. An overview.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2019

Greater overview with CRM systems

Craftsmanship 4.0: In everyday practice, having all information readily available at all times is a particular challenge. That's why many craft businesses rely on CRM systems: Here, all information is available with just a few clicks.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2019

The ideal office printer

Industry 4.0: Laser or inkjet printer? This question always arises when buying a printer, as both printing technologies have advantages and disadvantages. Furthermore, laser printers no longer always offer the lowest cost per page.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2019

Successful advertising with Google Ads

Crafts 4.0: Does your website not appear among the first results in Google searches? Then the online advertising system "Google Ads" offers craft businesses a way to land directly on the first page through advertising.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2019

Successful email marketing

Crafts 4.0: Email marketing allows craft businesses to reach many potential customers quickly and cost-effectively. The right strategy, professional implementation, and compliance with all legal requirements are essential.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2019

The optimal monitor

Industry 4.0: In craft businesses, the monitor is one of the most important components for office work. What should you look for when buying one? And which monitor is suitable for which application?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2019

Free Google services

Craftsmanship 4.0: Google currently offers almost 70 free services. But which ones are truly useful for tradespeople? And what should you pay attention to when using them?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2019

Learn more thanks to podcasts

Craftsmanship 4.0: Podcasts are the perfect way to get an information boost on the go. Many of the free audio programs impart knowledge while also being entertaining. But what technical requirements are needed?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | June 2019

Process digitalization: Become master of your own data

In the next five years, companies must digitize and automate their processes—otherwise, AI or the Internet of Things won't be a success. Experts from chambers and associations are offering assistance.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2019

Protect data – but securely

Industry 4.0: Secure passwords are essential for protecting company data online. But what should tradespeople consider to ensure their data is protected as effectively as possible?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2019

Lights, camera, action – YouTube marketing

Crafts 4.0: In the age of digitalization, craft businesses must find new ways to attract skilled workers and reach customers. Short video clips on YouTube are a promising strategy.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2019

on social networks

Crafts 4.0: In times of skilled labor shortages, companies must find new ways to recruit trainees, because today young people are primarily active on social media.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | February 2019

Digital time tracking

Industry 4.0: Digital time tracking systems can not only increase transparency for businesses, but also save time and hassle. But what should you consider when implementing a digital system?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2019

Digital invoices

Industry 4.0: To switch to digital invoices, small businesses need nothing more than an email address and an office program that can generate PDFs. Larger businesses usually rely on software packages.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | December 2018

Communicate digitally

Industry 4.0: Businesses today use many digital communication channels. But which channel is suitable for which occasion? And how can your communication become the face of your business?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2018

More efficient with the paperless office

Industry 4.0: Eliminating paper in the office offers many advantages. Businesses not only save time and money, but they can also find digital documents more quickly. This requires a clear strategy.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2018

The future of craftsmanship is digital

At the first nationwide "Hackathon Handwerk" in Koblenz, craftspeople from various trades were able to develop their own product and business ideas.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2018

Securely access data on the go

Craftsmanship 4.0: Access to customer and project data from anywhere via the internet makes everyday work more convenient for craft businesses. A popular solution is remote access via VPN.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2018

This now applies to the internet.

Crafts 4.0: The new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has caused quite a stir in recent weeks. But there are many other laws that craft businesses must comply with.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2018

Optimize business processes with software

With software programs, trades businesses can save time and money, for example, by implementing digital project management.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2018

Find it faster on the internet

Crafts 4.0: "Your search returned 58.911 results." The sheer volume of information on the internet is often overwhelming when searching for keywords. However, with the right search strategy, businesses can find information much faster.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | April 2018

Back up operational data in cloud storage

Regular data backups are annoying, but essential. If conventional storage media become unreadable, there's a risk of complete data loss. Backups from cloud storage services are more secure.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2018

Clarity on smartphone tariffs

Industry 4.0: Smartphones play a key role in the workplace for many companies. But how do you find the best plan for your needs? When do unlimited calls and data plans make sense?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2017

Finding employees online

Crafts 4.0: Today, prospective apprentices and qualified professionals increasingly search for interesting positions on online job boards. But how can craft businesses secure the best skilled workers online?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2017

Shop safely online

Industry 4.0: Online shops are open 24/7 and deliver materials to the workshop or construction site. How safe is online shopping for tradespeople?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2017

Rules for greater data security

Industry 4.0: The increasing digitalization of the skilled trades brings many advantages – but also new risks such as data loss and data misuse. These risks can be minimized.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | May 2017

IT solutions from the cloud

Industry 4.0: Craft businesses can now save themselves expensive IT purchases. Modern offices only need a PC with an internet connection.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | March 2017

Optimize for search engines

Industry 4.0: How do new customers find their way to the company website? Ideally via search engines – provided you rank highly in the search results.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Themed Specials | January 2017

Success with your own website

Industry 4.0: According to studies, 37 percent of small businesses do not have their own website. They are thus missing out on valuable potential – for acquiring new customers and securing skilled workers.

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | October 2016

Communicate flexibly via email

Crafts 4.0: Email communication is now part of everyday business for modern craft businesses. But what should you look for when choosing an email provider? And how secure is email?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | September 2016

Internet access – an important success factor

The future of skilled trades is digitalized and networked. The internet has become an integral part of everyday business. But what should you look for when it comes to internet access?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | August 2016

The right hardware

Industry 4.0: The first and most important step towards digitizing your business: buying a computer. But what's the better choice: a desktop PC or a laptop?

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Digital Craftsmanship - Special Topics | July 2016

Crafts 4.0: modern, mobile, network-compatible

The skilled trades have a lot to do and require an efficient infrastructure – the DHB is launching a series for operational equipment.

Trainee test: How fit are your applicants?

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