7 ways infrastructure contractors are using AI to drive productivity

Introduction:

Over the past three decades, productivity in infrastructure projects has remained stagnant due to increased regulation and worker shortages. Additionally, the unique nature of each project poses challenges for continuous improvement, as each project is effectively starting from 0.

However, AI and software offer the potential to revolutionise processes, with the ability to cut 80% of time spent.

Nonetheless, early AI implementations with generative AI, such as those reported by John Holland:

“John Holland said its early AI experiences had saved uses between 30 and 60 minutes a day, or as much as 10 hours per month.” John Holland joins Microsoft 365 Copilot early access program

This offers a glimpse into the transformative power of AI and software in alleviating industry capacity constraints.  

Where Generative AI is being used to increase productivity in Construction:

Estimating:

• Automating the long-form methodology process for tender writing, saving hours of content writing time.
• Providing instant draft legal summaries on construction contracts, exemplified by offerings like Lawpath.
• Accelerating Scope Q&A to streamline the process of reviewing tender documents.

HSEQ Documentation:

• Drafting SWMS documentation with AI assistance.
• Creating bespoke management plans for projects.

Payroll:

• Validating and cleansing payroll data using AI algorithms to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Implementing a chatbot for employee queries on payroll information.
• Pioneering the trend of using AI as a 'virtual employee' for further automation of data entry, validation, and reconciliation in payroll processes.
• Detecting discrepancies for timesheet theft.

Fleet Management:

• Enhancing utilisation exports to include total hours/kms per machine for selected periods, enabling informed machine allocation decisions.
• Monitoring compliance with pre-starts.
• Calculating weekly utilisation and tracking asset performance to optimize maintenance costs.
• Assessing mechanic efficiency based on field 'hours worked.'

Human Resources:

• Predicting employee turnover based on engagement.

Project Commercials:

• Utilising AI to provide daily job progress summaries.
• Analysing weather data (wet vs dry days) for claims assessment.
• Identifying entitlements and potential issues based on project data.

Communication:

• Streamlining email communication for non-English native speakers for increased efficiency.

In conclusion, the integration of AI technology into various aspects of the construction industry presents a significant opportunity for increased productivity and efficiency.

From estimating and payroll to fleet management and project analysis, AI offers solutions to streamline processes, identify insights, and optimise operations.

As the construction sector embraces AI-driven advancements, @Nomadhub stands at the forefront, providing a comprehensive platform for contractors to harness the power of data and technology.

With Nomadhub's innovative tools contractors can collect, analyse, and utilise vast amounts of project data to drive informed decision-making and improve project outcomes. As the industry evolves, Nomadhub remains committed to empowering contractors with cutting-edge solutions that enhance productivity, efficiency, and success in construction projects.

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