Family-owned and operated construction businesses have been around for a long time and face a variety of challenges in today’s market. However, it’s important to note that the current environment for construction and supply chain management is very different from the past. 
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Having a family legacy in the construction industry can be beneficial, but it’s important to keep in mind that legacy systems for supply chain solutions may not be the best fit for your business. Legacy systems are defined as any technology, software or hardware that has been outdated in terms of its function by the introduction of newer technology, but is still used within a company or organization.
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As a contractor, it’s important to find solutions that can save time and money while also addressing the increased volatility in the construction industry. One solution to consider is artificial intelligence (AI), which has the potential to increase efficiency, improve forecasting, and enhance safety in the industry.
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Lets Start with the Myths of AI:

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Myth 1: AI Will Replace Workers – AI does not necessarily lead to job loss. In fact, it can provide more opportunities for growth and development for construction business personnel. Talent shortage is often caused by a lack of challenges and opportunities for growth.
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Myth 2: AI is just too Expensive – Investing in AI does not have to be expensive. The key is to implement a system that works with existing, real-time processes in place, which can deliver faster return on investment.
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Myth 3: AI Can’t Be Trusted – It is important to have transparency and input from both commercial and technical teams when making predictions with AI, to ensure the desired outcome is achieved.
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Myth 4 It’s Too Early To Invest In AI – Investing in AI is a good idea as the need for greater efficiency in the industry is only going to increase. Delays can cost money, and successful AI implementation can improve supply chain logistics costs, inventory levels, and service levels. It is important to remember that implementing AI is a journey and it is important to start somewhere.
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So What AI Tools Can You Use Today?

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  1. Autodesk BIM 360: A cloud-based construction management platform that uses AI to automate repetitive tasks and improve collaboration between project teams.
  2. Procore: A construction management platform that uses AI to automate document and data management, improve communication, and increase productivity.
  3. PlanGrid: A construction management platform that uses AI to automate takeoff and estimating, improve collaboration and communication, and streamline project management.
  4. Smartvid.io: A platform that uses AI to analyze construction site photos and videos to improve safety, quality control, and compliance.
  5. Fieldwire: A construction management platform that uses AI to automate task assignments and progress tracking, improving communication and collaboration.
  6. Doxel: An AI-powered robot that uses LiDAR sensors to scan construction sites and generate 3D models to improve site measurement, quality control, and progress tracking.
  7. BIM Vision: A 3D model viewer that uses AI to improve collaboration and communication between project teams, and streamline project management.
  8. Bluebeam Revu: A PDF markup and collaboration tool that uses AI to automate document management and improve collaboration and communication between project teams.
  9. SiteSense: A construction management platform that uses AI to automate site monitoring, data collection, and analysis to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.
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Construction businesses, particularly those that are family-owned and operated, face a range of challenges in today’s market. However, it’s important to remember that the current environment for construction and supply chain management is quite different from the past. Legacy software for supply chain solutions may not be the best fit for your business, but AI can be a great solution for increasing efficiency, improving forecasting, and enhancing safety in the industry. In this scenario, it is important for contractors to find solutions that can save time and money while addressing the increased volatility in the industry.
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