Concrete Meets Code:The Rise of AI in Construction

A decade ago, the talk of AI was mostly only speculation. While technology was developing at a rapid rate and the tech era of construction had already begun, today we find ourselves no longer standing at the edge of the technological age, but right in the thick of it. Artificial Intelligence is the ability of computers and machines to perform tasks that normally require human thinking, such as learning from data, recognizing patterns, making decisions, understanding languages, and solving problems. Essentially AI allows machines to “think” and learn in a way similar to humans, but often much faster and with large amounts of data. In our industry, AI is already being used to analyze data, improve safety and help teams make smarter decisions. 

Design and planning tools have already taken hold of the industry by way of its efficiency. AI-powered BIM (Building Information Modeling) helps create smart 3D models of buildings and notably detects design conflicts before construction starts. Generative AI design tools are also aiding productivity by automatically creating building layouts and concepts, which speeds up early design phases. Tools such as Autodesk AI and other generative design software are only some ways in which AI has already benefited our industry. 

Project Management AI analyzes schedules, budgets, progress, as well as predicts delays, suggests adjustments, and tracks productivity using real time data. These tools act like a “smart assistant” for project managers. While the extra organization aids project managers, human supervisors make judgment calls in hazardous, dynamic situations that AI isn’t fully able to replace. Regulations, insurance, and on-site risk management still favor human oversight and accountability even as AI begins to take over. As in industry, human supervisors are still needed to manage and oversee what machines simply cannot do yet, however working with AI to increase efficiency and productively is already making an impact in the industry in how tasks are managed. 

Jobsite Monitoring has also been aided by AI using computer vision and drones. AI cameras monitor jobsites for safety risks and drones capture aerial progress and site data for tracking. These modes of jobsite monitoring can significantly reduce inspection time and improve safety by identifying hazards, missing PPE, and unsafe actions. Again, a contractor should not solely rely on the accuracy of this monitoring and collected data should always be reviewed by human oversight. Categorizing AI as a supplementary tool rather than a primary source one is fully reliant on it is where true power is balanced. 

The ways in which AI is being intertwined into our industry is endless: robots and automation are being used for bricklaying, layout, and inspections; autonomous machines are being used for repetitive and dangerous tasks, and now we have emerging humanoid robots for heavy labor. Even if the construction industry went fully robotic and automated, certain client preferences will still opt for human skill and custom craftsmanship, for unique aesthetics where human taste and nuance matters. As the shift to automated robotics begins and might eliminate repetitive tasks for increased efficiency in our industry, craftsmen should be mindful in how to preserve the skills and trades that have been passed down generations that make humans impossible to replace. 

With all these considerations, it is without a doubt that documenting and admin automation will be beneficial; AI is already aiding in contracts, RFIs and reports, generating summaries and paperwork, and can automate procurement and vendor selection which can save time on paperwork. 

Companies that use AI can remain competitive and ahead of technological trends improving their results. As a contractor, staying informed, adapting and embracing new tools will not only set you up for success, but ensure longevity for your company in an ever-evolving technological landscape. AI won’t replace construction professionals but it will remove repetitive tasks such as estimating, precon planning, documentation, and quantity takeoffs, but it cannot run a jobsite, manage trade coordination, be a foreman or an electrician. The human element will always matter in quick decision making, project communication, and most importantly leadership. The future isn’t AI vs construction, it’s the construction professional utilizing AI vs the one who isn’t. Which one will you be?