How to Start Using AI in Construction Today

AI is reshaping industries everywhere, from finance to healthcare, even farming. But in construction, the conversation has been surprisingly quiet.

But I’ve already had many people ask me: “Is AI going to replace QSs?” “Can it actually be used on site?” “Or is it just another buzzword?”

The truth is, AI is already here, no matter you use it or not. And ignoring it might mean missed opportunities.

Think about it.

The internet didn’t even exist for most of human history.

Thirty years ago, sending drawings by email instead of fax felt revolutionary. Today, we can’t imagine working without it.

That's probably how you feels about AI right now, and that's perfectly normal. Because we are at the early stage, it feels confusing, and sometimes clunky, but what it is different to Internet is, this time, the change is moving much faster than the internet ever did.

For construction, the risk isn’t that AI will replace us. The real risk is being left behind while others adopt tools that make them faster, more accurate, and more cost-effective, and ultimately, more competitive than you.

As much as I would love to share what you should learn, what you should do right now, the true is, the speed of AI evolving is outstanding, and trying to catch every single movement of it, it is nearly impossible.

Which means, I’m still figuring out that very question myself. However, instead of waiting until I have it all perfectly worked out ( which will be too late), I want to share my journey as it unfolds. My reflections, my experiments, the things that succeed (and the things that fail). Hopefully, my successes can inspire you, and my failures can save you some time on your own journey. Here’s what I’ve learned so far on my own AI journey, and what you should keep in mind if you’re curious about how it could fit into your next construction project.

Know What AI Actually Is

Before I start sharing my journey, let's get down to the basics.

When people hear “AI,” they often picture robots building skyscrapers. That’s not reality.

In plain English: AI is software that spots patterns, generates text, analyses data, or predicts outcomes based on information you give it. Think of it less as a robot, and more as a digital assistant, one that never gets tired of repetitive tasks.

Which gives the first edge of the AI tools, to replace people resource to handle repetitive tasks. I am thinking the tasks such as updating drawing registers, variation lists, comparing revisions of drawings, drafting payment claims and payment schedules etc.

Start Small With Simple Tools

You don’t need to jump straight into complex systems.

Here are three tools I’ve tested so far:

ChatGPT

I’ve used ChatGPT to help me review my drafted email tones to make sure that I am using the neutral tones without any bias; helped me to spot two revision documents difference in minutes; and to bounce some ideas from different perspective and fine tone the best pitch to my clients.

Base 44

Base 44 is an AI powered tool gives old websites a modern refresh in minutes. No coding background required, no need for designer, no waiting weeks, which it means, much less money spend on the website, more profit in the actual work. When I helped my clients to design their website, I can simply talk to the website to let it know what kind of website my client want, in plain language, not even need prompts, and it can generate the fully functional website in seconds. This is especially works for the small to medium construction businesses who want to have a great first impression and professional look on their website, but also have limited budget.

Beautiful.ai

Beautiful.ai is one of my first used AI tool, and I now cannot work without it. If you’ve ever wrestled with PowerPoint, or you want to have a modern professional look for your presentation, but don't want to spend hours on it, this is a game-changer. Beautiful.ai takes your words and automatically designs sharp, professional-looking slides. Perfect for tender submissions, project updates, or client pitches.

Focus on Time Savings, Not Replacement

AI won’t take over the roles of project managers, QSs, or engineers. But it will take some of the boring, repetitive parts off your plate. Which is great, because it means more time for you to focus on solving problems, managing relationships, and leading projects, the things that really move construction forward.

However, like a new apprentice, AI won’t get everything right the first time. Sometimes it produces nonsense. Sometimes it misses details. The key is to test, refine, and double-check.

Use AI as a first draft, not the final answer.

Final Thought

Just like good cashflow management, using AI is about consistency. It’s not a one-off experiment, it’s a shift in how we work. Try using it on one small task every day: drafting an email, summarising a meeting, or checking a programme. Over time, those small gains add up.

Over the coming weeks, I’ll continues share more about what I test, what works, and what doesn’t.

And I’d love to know: What’s the one task you wish AI could take off your plate?