CIPO vs Kahua
IN SHORT
CIPO
Purpose-built for construction owners (public works, utilities, and energy) to standardize processes, centralize data, and oversee capital improvement programs
Kahua
A configurable construction program management platform used by both owners and contractors, with an app-store model that allows organizations to buy or build apps for their specific needs.
Cost Model & Predictability
CIPO Advantage
Offers a straightforward subscription model. Pricing is not tied to number of projects, additional modules, or professional services. Owners know exactly what they will spend annually, making budgeting predictable for multi-year programs.
Kahua Limitations
Uses a modular app-based pricing approach. Each function (RFIs, submittals, cost management, etc.) may require separate apps or add-ons. As organizations scale, costs can escalate, and total spend becomes harder to forecast.
Modularity & Professional Services
CIPO Advantage
Modularized out-of-the-box. Owners can activate only the modules they need (e.g., RFIs, submittals, change orders, inspections) without buying extra licenses or hiring consultants. New modules can be turned on quickly without disruption.
Kahua Limitations
Modularity is tied to its app marketplace. While flexible, many workflows require custom apps or third-party services. This often means extra professional services for setup, customization, and maintenance — increasing cost and complexity.
Workflow & Process Standardization
CIPO Advantage
Comes with predefined, standardized workflows specifically for owners. This reduces implementation time and ensures consistency across all projects and departments without extra spend.
Kahua Limitations
Workflows can be built or customized within apps, but require more configuration effort. This flexibility can be powerful but often demands consulting hours and specialized resources.
Long-Term Budgeting & Risk
CIPO Advantage
Owners benefit from cost certainty: no surprise fees for professional services, no incremental app licenses, no hidden project surcharges. This stability is valuable for public agencies and utilities with strict budgeting requirements.
Kahua Limitations
Flexibility can come with budget uncertainty. Adding functionality or scaling across departments typically increases spend, making long-term cost of ownership less predictable.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature |
 CIPO |
 Kahua |
|---|---|---|
|
Pricing |
Predictable subscription |
App-based, variable |
|
Cost Predictability |
Affordable and fixed (no extra add-ons) |
High (apps & consulting add up) |
|
Workflows |
Pre-built, standardized for owners |
Configurable, but requires effort |
|
Budgeting |
Easy to forecast long-term |
Harder to control at scale |
|
Ease of Adoption |
Fast, out-of-the-box workflows |
Requires long implementation cycle, setup & configuration |
|
Consistency |
Standardized across all projects |
Varies by app/project setup |
|
Usability |
Owner-friendly, minimal IT |
More complex, often IT-driven |
CIPO delivers modularity without hidden costs — owners activate what they need without buying extra apps, licenses, or consulting hours. Kahua provides flexibility but relies heavily on an app-store model and professional services, making total cost of ownership less predictable.