Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) has released an artificial intelligence technology guide for the construction community, which includes definitions, construction use cases and considerations. The guide aims to provide knowledge to ensure contractors can actively participate in the construction AI conversation.
"ABC helps members realise the potential of AI, which helps contractors complete projects on time, minimise staffing challenges, save money and improve health and safety," said Matt Abeles, ABC vice president of construction technology and innovation. "The construction industry is faced with a steep worker shortage of more than half of a million in 2024, and promising technologies like AI can help address this challenge. As younger workers become industry leaders, we must approach AI in construction as beneficial with a balanced view that includes continuous evaluation, developing ethical guidelines and increasing awareness about what AI can and cannot do."
"The possibilities of AI technology may sound endless, but we must first educate ourselves on the basics, and this resource is a starting point to understand AI and its potential impact on the construction industry," said ABC director of Construction Technology and Innovation Patrick Scarpati, who authored the guide. "The industry has immense opportunities to evaluate how we can better deliver projects, and we can lean on AI in achieving essential goals like upskilling, workforce development, knowledge transfer, supply chain optimisation, enhanced safety design and planning and much more."
The guide describes the uses of AI during the construction project lifecycle, including preconstruction, construction and building maintenance. It also defines terms, such as deep learning and predictive AI, and best practices in drafting office AI policies.
ABC creates the conditions for construction companies to innovate, differentiate, attract, and educate their top talent, ultimately to win and deliver that work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which they work. ABC continues to invest in helping its members select and understand the high-quality construction technology available through its Tech Report, Tech Alliance, Tech Marketplace and Safety Tech Guide.
Visit abc.org/ai.
