The future of Construction and how AI is changing the game

By Debbie Spann, Category Manager and ChatGPT

Working in construction is like living life on the edge, navigating through unpredictable Australian weather, communication breakdowns, complex challenges, scheduling and budget chaos. It’s a world filled with unexpected surprises, personalities and situations that will have you laughing or crying to the end of time.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful technological force, revolutionising various sectors of the economy, and evolving at the speed of light. One industry poised to experience significant transformation is construction.

With my 18+ years of Project Management in the Construction Industry and the latest news on how AI is going to revolutionise the way we procure, manage and deliver projects,  I wanted to find out how this fast- moving beast is going to impact the industry.

So, I decided what better place to go first and ask ChatGPT. Here are  my findings: 

Question:
How will  Artificial Intelligence (AI) impact the construction industry?  

Answer:
"Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to significantly impact the construction industry in several ways. Here are some key areas where AI is expected to make a difference:

1. Design and Planning: AI can assist architects and engineers in designing and planning structures more efficiently. AI-powered algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data and generate optimised designs, taking into account factors such as materials, structural integrity, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. This can accelerate the design process and result in more innovative and sustainable construction projects.
    
2. Project Management: AI can enhance project management by improving scheduling, resource allocation, and risk assessment. AI algorithms can analyse historical project data, identify patterns, and predict potential delays or cost overruns. This enables better decision-making and allows project managers to proactively address issues, leading to more efficient and on-time project completion.
    
3. Safety and Risk Mitigation: AI technologies, such as computer vision and sensors, can be used to monitor construction sites for safety hazards and ensure compliance with safety regulations. AI systems can analyse real-time data from cameras and sensors to detect potential risks, such as workers in unsafe areas or faulty equipment. This proactive approach can help prevent accidents and reduce workplace injuries.
   
   
4. Construction Automation: AI-powered robotics and automation can streamline construction processes. Construction robots can be deployed for repetitive tasks, such as bricklaying, concrete pouring, and site cleaning, reducing labour-intensive work and increasing productivity. These robots can work alongside human workers, enhancing efficiency and improving overall construction quality.
    
5. Quality Control and Inspections: AI can facilitate quality control and inspections during the construction phase. Computer vision algorithms can analyse images and identify defects or deviations from design specifications. This enables early detection of issues, reducing rework and ensuring that the final product meets the required standards.
    
6. Maintenance and Asset Management: AI can support predictive maintenance by analyzing data from sensors embedded in buildings and infrastructure. By monitoring variables such as temperature, vibration, and energy consumption, AI algorithms can predict potential failures and schedule maintenance activities in a cost-effective manner. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and extends the lifespan of construction assets.
    
7. Overall, AI has the potential to revolutionise the construction industry by improving efficiency, safety, and sustainability. However, it's important to note that the full-scale adoption of AI in construction may take time due to factors such as cost, regulatory considerations, and the need for skilled professionals to adapt to new technologies."

From what ChatGPT has to say, there are some huge changes coming to the construction industry and from a positive stand this is an exciting and great time to start embracing how we currently deliver projects and look to see how we can use this technology to keeping up with this fast moving beast.

At Local Buy, we are actively working with industry to stay up to date with emerging technologies so that we can offer a variety of arrangements that support the AI technologies.

We are doing this with the following strategies:

• Continuously monitoring and staying updated on the latest advancements, trends, industry publications, conferences, professional networks, and reputable sources of information.
• Innovative culture – continual learning and development.
• Encourage these new emerging industries to become a Local Buy pre-qualified supplier. 
• Information sharing- sharing our knowledge with you so you can access information and opportunities to upskill

Local Buy arrangements are designed to simplify the procurement process and offer speed to market,  providing you with access to pre-qualified suppliers of which many are embracing the AI technologies.

Some of the construction arrangements offered by LB are:
LB280 Asset Management Services 
LB279 Project Management Services
LB312 Engineering and Environmental Consultancy Services
LB305 Landscaping, Gardening and Arboriculture Services
BUS265 Planning, Surveying, Design & Architecture – expires Jan 2024 and to be replaced with LB335 Panning, Surveying, Design & Architecture… tender to be released 1st August 2023.
LB304 Public-Areas Facilities, Parks & Amenities 
LB303 Sport & Recreation Facilities & Equipment
BUS270 Road, Water Sewerage & Civil Works 
Coming later this year:
LB329 – Building & Construction – Commercial Construction & Fit out (inc: Asbestos, Demo)
LB331 – Building & Construction – Residential
LB332 – Trade Services & Facilities Maintenance 

Arrangements open on 1 August – if you’re a supplier, or council with an interest in the above Arrangements, please reach out to me via email to see how we can work together dspann@localbuy.net.au