Artificial intelligence isn't just something from a science fiction movie. It's the reality of our modern world and has incredible potential for businesses across industries, including construction. Yet, there is a lot of uncertainty around AI. In this article, we'll break down why AI matters and set the record straight around its impact on construction.
Artificial intelligence, or AI, creates robots and systems that can think like humans and make and adjust decisions as they gather more information. AI can process large amounts of data in numbers, text, or images to find patterns, classify information, or generate new content.
When considering AI, it’s important to know what AI isn’t. AI can’t operate on its own — it needs humans to input data, format algorithms, and send queries. AI can’t create new concepts because everything it produces is based on the information it already has. In that way, AI can’t predict the future or create something from nothing.
What does this all mean for construction? AI can augment human jobs and streamline processes. It also has many potential applications on job sites and in the office. When used correctly, AI can process payroll, make schedules and budgets, create efficient teams, and monitor progress — the list goes on and on.
There are a lot of conversations about AI, but not all the information is accurate. Misconceptions can get in the way of construction companies adopting AI or using it to its full potential. Here are three common AI misconceptions:
Understanding the theory behind AI is nice, but most people don’t fully understand its potential impact until they see it in action and realize the practical applications. How can AI be used in construction? Here are four key uses:
AI-powered predictive analytics can help companies forecast project timelines, costs, and risks. Instead of manual calculations or guesswork, supervisors can have data-backed predictions about what it will take to make a project successful and tools to maximize efficiency.
Safety is a major concern (and cost) for construction companies. AI-powered cameras and sensors can enhance on-site safety by identifying potential hazards and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. These cameras can scan job sites for potential issues, raise an alarm before an incident occurs, and ensure workers are wearing the correct gear and using equipment properly.
AI makes it easy to visualize a project before it is completed and make adjustments to create the most efficient, useful, and realistic result. Throughout the design phase, AI can optimize building layouts, material use, and energy efficiency using generative design and simulation tools.
AI can track equipment usage and predict when construction equipment will need maintenance. Using data and visual recognition, AI can recommend when companies need to service machines, reducing downtime and avoiding costly repairs.
AI has the potential to transform the construction industry and how companies operate. There are many potential benefits to AI, but here are a few:
When considering AI, construction companies need to think through all the logistics to ensure seamless adoption.
With AI advancing so rapidly, it can be tempting to chase after the latest and greatest technology. But before jumping into every AI application, consider what your company actually needs. What AI tools will make the biggest impact on your company? Focus on what applications support your goals and projects, and then expand to other applications once you’ve gotten familiar with AI.
There’s also the cost and training to consider. AI is a worthwhile investment but still requires an upfront cost and training. Change management and getting all employees on board can also be challenging, especially with fear surrounding AI taking over human jobs.
AI certainly is an exciting development, and this is just the beginning. The technology is advancing rapidly, and many new applications are in the pipeline — plus advances we can’t predict.
AI-powered robotics can be used on job sites to assist with repetitive tasks, load materials, or act as an assistant to a human worker. Autonomous vehicles can help teams get to job sites more quickly and potentially even operate smaller machinery, freeing humans for other projects. Advanced simulations through augmented reality and virtual reality can provide realistic training so workers can learn new skills virtually and visualize completed projects in an immersive tech experience.
For AI in construction, the sky's the limit.
Want to learn more? Read how construction finance teams leverage AI for increased productivity and efficiency.