Artificial Intelligence is all over the headlines recently and while it’s frequently utilized in the technology industry that doesn’t mean it can’t have large impacts for contractors who operate in the physical world.
AI has provided immense value in both the physical and digital worlds when it comes to improving efficiency, project management, and predictive maintenance.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
AI is a form of computer technology that (in certain applications) behaves like a smart assistant, learning and making decisions similar to how humans do.
Imagine having a digital team member who can predict when your machinery might break down based on patterns it sees in your equipment’s performance data. Or maybe it’s a clever analyst who can sift through all your project data, help manage schedules, order materials, and even provide insights on how to do things more efficiently.
This “smart assistant” can analyze a lot more data and do calculations much quicker than a person could. It can even learn from experience to improve its predictions and recommendations, making AI an invaluable tool for streamlining operations and reducing unexpected complications on site.
Here are six of the best methods for contractors to leverage AI tools.
Predictive Maintenance
Predicting the maintenance requirements of equipment and improving uptime can help save money and increase customer satisfaction. By analyzing data from sensors and past maintenance records, AI can predict when a machine might break down or require servicing, allowing contractors to fix problems before they cause delays. Tools such Augury use AI to predict and prevent machine failure and drive down maintenance and reliability costs.
Project Management
Managing anything costs time and time is money. AI’s profound impact on project management is seen in the automation of managing and documenting tasks, allocating resources and even the prediction of potential project delays. AI tools can also provide insights into efficiency opportunities and help make data-driven decisions.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Design and construction processes can use AI to optimize BIM. By analyzing a large number of designs, AI can offer optimizations in terms of materials used, cost, time and environmental impact. Tools such as bricsys uses AI to analyze data and remove bottlenecks in the design process by automating repetitive tasks.
Supply Chain Management
Supply chain is something that’s constantly being optimized using blockchain, machine learning and AI. Integrating AI can better help predict demand, manage inventory and improve logistics. Platforms such as Project44 and Coupa use AI to optimize various aspects of the supply chain, leading to reduced costs and improved efficiency.
Safety and Compliance:
Ensuring a safe working environment is something that’s always top of mind. AI monitors compliance and safety standards to make sure qualifications are met by analyzing video feeds and other data. AI then identifies situations where safety regulations are being violated and alerts the relevant personnel. Tools like Newmetrix specialize in this area.
Training and Simulation
AI is particularly useful in creating realistic situations for training staff to use complex equipment or follow complex procedures. Tools such as STRIVR specialize in this area.
How to Adopt AI
Ideas are great but the value is in the execution. Here are a few steps you should take when looking to introduce AI into your business:
Identify the Pain Points and Goals
Defining the problem you're trying to solve and goals you plan to achieve will help you narrow down the options to select the most suitable AI tool for your needs.
Evaluate the Available Solutions
Not all AI tools will be equally effective or compatible with your business. It’s important to compare the features, benefits, costs and risks of different AI tools with your requirements. Don’t forget to consider the ease of use, scalability, integration process and support of the tools.
Implement the AI Tool Gradually
Implementing anything new requires careful planning and execution. Allow adequate time for testing to ensure the AI works well with your existing systems and processes. Train your staff on how to use the AI tool and implement it gradually, starting with a pilot project or a small group of users first. Only expand it to the whole organization once you are satisfied with the results.
Monitor and Evaluate the Performance
After implementing an AI tool, consistently and objectively measure the outcomes and impacts of using the tool against your key performance indicators (KPIs). Collecting feedback from your staff and customers can also be used to identify possible issues or gaps so adjustments can be made as needed.
Consider the Human Element
Good change management practices are key to a successful AI implementation. Help your team prepare for the change by supporting them through comprehensive training.
Andy Tryba is Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Ionic Partners and CEO of Gigster, a software development company that sources developers, designers and product managers from around the world to use artificial intelligence to complete clients’ projects. Visit gigster to learn more or connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andytryba/