The construction industry, a crucial pillar of the global economy, continues to face challenges as it remains one of the least digitised sectors relative to its economic significance. This disparity is largely attributed to the fragmented nature of construction data, which varies widely in format—from textual documents and visual designs to schedules and three-dimensional models. Such complexity creates inefficiencies and hinders progress, making these issues prime targets for technological intervention, particularly through artificial intelligence (AI).
Omar Zhandarbekuly, co-founder at Surfaice.pro, explores how specific AI technologies—including knowledge graphs, generative AI, and agentic AI—could streamline construction processes and enhance operational efficiency. The aforementioned technologies offer innovative approaches at different stages of the construction lifecycle, potentially leading to significant cost savings and smarter decision-making.
The construction process generates copious amounts of data from various sources, including textual information like contracts and specifications, visual data such as blueprints and design drawings, and dynamic inputs like project schedules and live updates. However, the inherent challenge lies in not only gathering these data points but also in their integration and interpretation. For instance, alterations in design drawings can trigger unforeseen impacts on costs and timelines, a scenario exacerbated by a lack of cohesive systems to address these interdependencies. This fragmentation can lead to inefficiencies, cost overruns, and project delays.
Speaking about the potential of AI in this context, Zhandarbekuly outlines several practical applications aimed at resolving these issues.
In the design phase, AI-driven knowledge graphs are being utilised to improve the review of drawings. These graphs can interlink various data sources such as architectural and engineering guidelines, thus creating a comprehensive network of design relationships. For example, an AI model can effectively identify discrepancies, like a misaligned structural beam's placement when compared to its load calculations. This capability enables early detection of issues, thereby facilitating timely corrections.
As projects transition to the preconstruction phase, generative AI tools can play a pivotal role in proposal management. These tools draw insights from historical project data to produce detailed proposals—covering costs, schedules, and resource allocation—within minutes. A generative AI model trained on previous Requests for Proposals (RFPs) can generate tailored cost estimates and risk assessments, significantly expediting the proposal process while minimising human error.
During the construction management phase, the complexity of operations necessitates sophisticated oversight. Agentic AI, characterised by its autonomous learning capabilities, serves as a valuable asset for project teams. Such AI can communicate with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to manage project documentation effectively, providing seamless access to crucial information like drawings and compliance checklists. The system also updates schedules and communicates changes, ensuring that all stakeholders are kept informed and reducing administrative delays.
The integration of AI technologies across the construction lifecycle stands to revolutionise the industry by consolidating disparate data sources into actionable insights. However, the successful implementation of AI requires a cultural shift within the industry that embraces AI as a companion tool rather than a replacement for human skills and creativity.
As the construction sector looks to innovate, embracing AI could facilitate the transition into a new era defined by enhanced efficiency and reduced fragmentation. From knowledge graphs in design reviews to generative AI in proposal creation and agentic AI in project management, these technologies are poised to fundamentally alter how construction projects are planned, executed, and delivered.
Omar Zhandarbekuly, who possesses extensive experience in construction technology and has collaborated with prestigious firms internationally, has highlighted the necessity for the construction industry to adapt to these advancing technological trends. His insights underline the potential of AI-driven solutions to not only address existing challenges but also to propel the sector toward a more efficient and innovative future.
Source: Noah Wire Services