With the explosion of information about AI it's easy to feel lost. Many in the construction sector share your concerns, finding themselves more confused than ever despite the constant barrage of AI-related news. Some mistakenly believe that AI is just a temporary trend that will fade away like so many other tech fads.However, this perspective is not only short-sighted but also potentially harmful to your business.

The real issue isn't the technology itself but the unrealistic expectations of short-term gains by investors, which has led to misplaced scepticism. The market is also clouded by 'AI-washing', where companies claim to offer AI solutions that aren't really AI. Understanding the truth about AI's potential and separating it from the myths is crucial for your company's success.

Here are some common misconceptions and mistakes about AI that SMEs in the construction sector should be aware of:

 AI is just ChatGPT

While ChatGPT might be the most talked-about AI tool today, it's not the only one. AI encompasses hundreds of tools designed to perform specific tasks, from project management to safety monitoring for both site and office-based applications. As a construction SME, it’s vital to identify the right AI tools that match your specific needs. If the wrong tool is selected, it can create the impression that AI doesn’t work, leading to missed opportunities. The key is to start with a clear understanding of the problem you want to solve, and then select an AI tool tailored to that challenge.

 AI is only for large companies

This is a common misconception, but SMEs can actually have an edge when it comes to AI adoption. Unlike large corporations bogged down by bureaucracy, SMEs can implement AI more swiftly and with greater flexibility. For construction SMEs, this means you can start with small, targeted projects, like automating administrative tasks or improving project timelines, without the need for a massive IT overhaul. Many AI solutions come in the form of off-the-shelf products with flexible subscription models, making them accessible even on a tight budget. This approach allows you to see quick wins and build confidence in AI’s potential before scaling up.

 AI is just a fad

Dismissing AI as a passing trend is not just risky, it’s dangerous. AI is not just the future; it’s already a part of our everyday lives, often in ways we don’t even realise. Think about how Amazon suggests products based on your previous purchases or how Netflix recommends shows based on your viewing habits - both are driven by AI. In the construction sector, AI can be a game-changer, from optimizing supply chains to predicting project risks. Ignoring its potential now could leave your business struggling to catch up as competitors gain ground.

 We'll wait and see

Adopting a 'wait and see' approach might feel safe, but with new developments in AI happening every week, it’s a recipe for falling behind. AI technology is evolving at an incredible speed, and the longer you wait, the harder it will be to catch up. Picture AI implementation as a race where the finish line keeps moving as the technology advances. If you’re not actively moving forward, you’re effectively moving backwards. The time to start exploring AI is now, waiting until it’s 'perfect' or 'proven' could leave you playing an impossible game of catch-up.

 AI is an expense, not an investment

 Viewing AI as an unnecessary expense is a common mistake, but it should be seen as an investment in your company’s future. In the construction industry, where margins are tight and competition is fierce, AI can offer significant returns by streamlining operations, reducing errors, and improving decision-making. The cost of implementing AI today could be a fraction of the cost of being left behind tomorrow. Consider AI as a tool that can enhance your company’s sustainability and long-term viability rather than a burden on your balance sheet.

 AI will replace employees

The fear that AI will replace human workers is understandable but misplaced, especially in the construction sector, where skilled staff are in short supply. Rather than replacing jobs, AI can augment your workforce by taking over repetitive tasks, freeing up your employees to focus on higher-value work. For instance, AI can handle routine data entry, leaving your team to concentrate on more complex tasks like project management or customer relations. This not only helps to address staff shortages but also boosts productivity and job satisfaction among your employees.

 The construction industry is undergoing a technological transformation, and AI is a key driver of this change. As an SME, you have the agility to adapt and leverage AI quickly, giving you a competitive edge. Dismissing AI as a passing trend or delaying its adoption could put your business at a significant disadvantage.

 Rather than viewing AI as a challenge, see it as an opportunity to enhance efficiency, solve the skills shortage, and secure your company’s future. Start small, experiment, and learn from your experiences. By embracing AI today, you are not just adopting new technology, you are positioning your business for long-term success in an increasingly digital world.

(Article by Suzanne Hill first published in Specify Magazine)