As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its presence in various sectors is becoming increasingly significant, particularly in business practices. According to Diego Padilla-Philipps, writing for Building, the trajectory of AI development is poised to bring forth more sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective project delivery, shaping how industries operate as we approach 2025.
AI technologies are already deeply integrated into everyday life, embedded within devices such as smartphones and smart speakers. However, the implications of AI's capabilities extend beyond mere convenience; they represent transformative potential for industrial operations. As the new year approaches, companies are encouraged to explore how these advancements can enhance both their operations and workforce dynamics.
A primary area of impact is the emergence of AI assistants and agents, which have begun revolutionising corporate functionalities by managing a variety of administrative tasks. Tools such as Microsoft’s Co-Pilot and the newly unveiled Gemini are designed to assist in project management, email sorting, and even inventory monitoring. Padilla-Philipps notes that by 2025, these AI agents are set to become central to corporate workflows, taking on responsibilities that will inevitably streamline operations and improve productivity.
Moreover, the construction and design sectors are witnessing an increasing reliance on automation, particularly through the Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) methodology. Previously a staple in industries like automotive manufacturing, DfMA is gaining traction in construction, facilitating higher-quality outputs while reducing waste and time. The integration of digital platforms enables companies to implement these methodologies more effectively, showcasing a clear shift towards digital solutions in project delivery.
Despite prevailing concerns regarding job displacement due to AI and automation, Padilla-Philipps argues that while the structure of employment may shift, the overall job market will not necessarily dwindle. Instead, he suggests that AI should complement human efforts, enhancing workforce capabilities. To prepare for these changes, businesses are expected to increase emphasis on training and development in automation and robotics, ensuring employees are equipped to work alongside these technologies.
In addition to enhancing operational efficiency, AI will also play a critical role in on-site management. The introduction of smart site monitoring systems can enable companies to oversee construction activities in real-time. Technologies capable of performing visual identification can ensure safety standards are met and streamline material management, providing a comprehensive overview that can significantly improve site monitoring.
As the demand for data and AI accelerates, there is a corresponding need for robust energy infrastructure. While the energy consumption of AI remains modest relative to global demand, its growth is prompting investigations into innovative energy solutions, such as mini nuclear reactors, and boosting initiatives focused on renewable energy sources. The interplay between AI and energy demands underscores the necessity for advances in infrastructure that can support evolving consumption patterns, particularly in response to anticipated peaks in energy requirements.
The connection between AI and sustainability is particularly pronounced in modern building design. As smart buildings begin to generate real-time performance data, AI tools are facilitating more sustainable construction practices. At WSP, for instance, the Daisy tool leverages parametric design, machine learning, and optimisation techniques to evaluate multiple building configurations simultaneously, assessing key performance indicators like carbon footprint and energy efficiency. This technology is expected to further integrate into design processes by 2025, driving a deeper commitment to sustainability in architecture.
As AI continues to advance, its integration into business practice is undeniable. With projections indicating a growing utilization of AI in various sectors, preparing for this technological evolution involves prioritising training and adapting infrastructure to support the sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective project delivery critical for the next era of business operations.
Source: Noah Wire Services