The construction industry increasingly is using artificial intelligence for tasks such as design, site selection and production.
TechTarget shares the following ways AI is changing construction.
- Design. Some companies are using AI to improve and accelerate the design process. AI can help architects and engineers create design concepts and renderings more quickly, as well as explore alternative designs. AI tools also can help identify potential design issues by analyzing current and historical data.
- Modeling. AI’s ability to model real-world structures and scenarios allows architects and engineers to test construction designs and assess how a structure will behave in various conditions.
- Administrative tasks. Companies are using AI to draft a request for proposal, taking data from previous bids and engagements to fine-tune requirements in the new RFP. They also use AI tools to craft submissions.
- Analysis. Companies are using AI tools for market analysis to gather information about demand for design elements, building features and fixtures, and costs and selling prices. Additionally, AI is being used to collect and synthesize regulatory information and integrate it into other planning systems. Companies also are using AI to calculate sustainability metrics regarding a project’s overall sustainability.
- Project management. Most project management software incorporates AI, helping with functions such as task prioritization, scheduling, cost estimation, resource allocation and risk management.
- Procurement and supply chain management. Companies can use AI tools to analyze current and historical data to calculate how much material needs to be ordered, where the material is cheapest and when to place the order.
- Monitoring and measuring. Construction companies can use on-site cameras and drones to surveil job sites, take measurements and monitor progress. AI tools can analyze the imagery to keep a project on task and identify risks.
- Training and knowledge support. Although not as prevalent yet in construction, augmented and virtual reality can help train workers and guide them through on-site tasks.
