Understanding how AI can transform your company

By Dani Sheehan. 

Demystify artificial intelligence and learn how this exciting tool can improve your day-to-day operations. 

In a recent installment of Contractor Outlook, sponsored by SRS Distribution, Heidi J. Ellsworth asks Dr. Subodha Kumar from Temple University to shed light on one of the most transformative technologies of our time: artificial intelligence (AI). He offers invaluable insights into how AI is set to revolutionize the construction industry. 

Because artificial intelligence has several definitions and applications, Dr. Kumar begins, saying, “It has become a magical word, and we hear a lot about it these days, but if you really keep it simple, the idea is how we can create some human-like intelligence in machines. So, can we mimic some of that? And if we can mimic that intelligence, then with the amount of data and speed, hopefully we can make decisions, which were made by humans earlier, in a much faster and more accurate manner.” 

When it comes to how construction companies are utilizing AI, Dr. Kumar highlights several practical applications. First, AI can analyze vast amounts of data to propose optimal designs that contractors may not have considered. He explains, “It can help you in saying, okay, this will be the best design given all the parameters you have or given all the requirements you have.” By recognizing patterns, AI can look at the needs of a specific location and improve the design process. 

Secondly, by monitoring data in real time, AI can predict potential issues before they arise, allowing for proactive maintenance and safety concerns. Not only can it identify what can go wrong during the project, but artificial intelligence can detect whether workers are following safety protocols on the job. Dr. Kumar continues, “[At the jobsite], you have some safety requirements. They have to wear helmets; they have to wear glasses. You can have a system which will in real time detect who is following the guidelines, who is not following the guidelines. It will give an alert. It can even block people from getting into some locations if they're not fulfilling certain requirements.” 

If you’re looking to stay ahead in an industry that’s constantly evolving, you won’t want to miss this episode of Contractor Outlook. Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way construction companies operate and innovate.