Like in many other industries, AI and ML have been a game-changer for the construction business. The technology changed how companies plan, manage, and execute their projects.
By implementing artificial intelligence and robotics at all levels, construction firms can reduce their costs, increase productivity and safety, while also providing higher client satisfaction. Even business owners believe in AI, with 78% of them claiming that the technology will change the face of their industry.
As the construction business welcomes these innovations, companies will be able to address rising challenges such as high labor costs. With the power of AI, companies should be able to compete at a higher level and enhance their longevity.
Why Do Construction Businesses Need AI?
In the last few years, technology has completely altered the outlook of the construction business. New software and machines have started popping up, such as real time tracking for construction, changing processes that were done the same way for decades.
With modern solutions, you’re able to execute projects much faster and with fewer errors. AI and ML eliminate some human mistakes that were plaguing the business. This helps you reach deadliness while having fewer overhead expenses.
Although it might feel that AI is against workers, it is quite the opposite. Autonomous robots and machines are able to execute tasks that were previously too dangerous for humans. For example, self-driving vehicles can operate in various conditions without experiencing fatigue.
Whether you like it or not, your business does need AI solutions. Without sophisticated machines, you won’t be able to survive modern competition.
5 Ways Construction Companies Use AI
Artificial intelligence opens up a world of possibilities for the construction business. In just the last few years, we’ve seen numerous use cases where AI and ML could improve traditional workflows. Here’s how your company can also benefit from these solutions:
1. Enhance Design Quality
AI can make a major difference in the initial phases of a project. With these solutions, you can design buildings at a much faster rate while exploring different architectural solutions. For example, you can use Daisy AI to enhance the layout of various homes and other wooden projects.
When combined with Autodesk, this software allows you to create an effective workflow for timber projects. Not only will building themselves become more efficient, but you’ll be able to save a lot of resources during construction. However, this isn’t the only design benefit.
Artificial intelligence can also track down mistakes in human-made designs. By analyzing your work, specialized software can point out mistakes, giving you a chance to rectify the errors before going to the construction site. AI is also fantastic for testing structural resilience and environmental conditions.
2. Make Work Safer
One of the biggest concerns for construction companies is the safety of their workforce. Any injury to your skilled subcontractors can push back the deadline further. On top of that, if the injury is caused by your negligence, you might get sued by the same employees.
AI enhances work site safety on several levels. For example, the tech can create invisible barriers and notify your workers if they’re about to leave the safety zone. Furthermore, if there’s a potentially dangerous situation in the field, AI will recognize it faster than humans and alert the entire team.
AI works by analyzing trip and fall accidents. Your managers can use the data to make the necessary improvements on the site. By tapping into cameras, sensors, and IoT devices, AI can go through thousands of hours of video and flag other hazards and non-compliance.
3. Increase Assets’ Lifespan
AI is often used by construction companies to increase the lifespan of their assets. Specifically, artificial intelligence software can monitor the state of your machines and recommend repairs and maintenance.
AI accrues data from various sources regarding particular pieces of equipment. Then, it predicts how much a machine or tool will work. It takes into account its current state and the speed of deterioration. All of this would increase asset utilization while reducing associated maintenance costs.
Besides enhancing the life span of your machines, AI can also enhance your other operations. It taps into the BIM model during facility management. The program can track multiple systems, as well as power usage. Although acquiring this software may be expensive, it will ultimately pay for itself.
4. Manage Risks
Due to the complexity of construction projects, there are a lot of risks involved. Just about anything can mess up your delivery, from on-site injuries to slow material transport and poor weather conditions. With the help of AI, you can tackle a lot of these issues even before they appear.
Artificial intelligence can tap into your company database, as well as external sources, to identify potential risks associated with a project. Not only will it detect the potential issues, but it will also accurately predict their impact. The best thing about the software is that you can use it well before a project has started.
By relying on the program’s assessment, you’ll be able to reschedule tasks and enhance resource allocation. The software is also vital for your staff, as it can predict the likelihood of incidents and identify potential causes. That way, you can make the necessary job site changes before a disaster strikes.
5. Leverage Automation
AI has made a deep impact on our daily lives, whether we know it or not. In the construction business, automated robots are being used for bricklaying and creating roads, something that was previously reserved for a skilled labor force.
The great thing about automation is that you can tackle repetitive tasks without relying on your best employees. That way, your subcontractors can tackle more sensitive duties that require a human touch.
The Future of AI
While artificial intelligence can’t really manage your site, it can handle a lot of related processes. It supplies your management with much-needed data that will help them make the optimal decisions. Furthermore, AI-driven machines can tackle repetitive tasks that would otherwise be dangerous for your employees.
