Systems Over Spreadsheets – Technology in Real Estate with Dylan Goren, Co-Founder & CEO of Pillar

This episode of Breaking New Ground, Dylan Goren dives into the future of real estate decision-making and how technology is changing the playbook.

In this conversation, Dylan Goren, Co-Founder & CEO of Pillar, unpacks the site selection problem that continues to frustrate developers and how automation can transform outcomes. He explains why time lost in manual processes is money left on the table, how systems thinking sharpens future project evaluations, and why technology should be seen as an enabler, not a replacement. Dylan also touches on the evolving role of zoning, the rise of open data, and why younger leaders are accelerating the industry’s adoption curve.

Key Takeaways

• The Site Selection Problem: Pillar is tackling one of real estate’s most time-intensive bottlenecks.

• Manual ≠ Modern: Developers still rely heavily on outdated, manual processes.

• Time = Revenue: Automation can meaningfully increase speed, efficiency, and returns.

• Empowering, Not Replacing: Technology should support developers, not sideline them.

• Systems Thinking: Building frameworks for decisions strengthens long-term outcomes.

• Tracking Matters: Documenting decisions improves evaluation of future projects.

• Zoning’s Diminished Role: Less a barrier than before, zoning is no longer the central driver.

• The Power of Storytelling: A strong narrative is essential when pitching stakeholders.