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Don't Be the Blockbuster of Construction: How AI Can Help General Contractors Thrive in the Digital Age

  • Writer: Tyler Young
    Tyler Young
  • Jan 24
  • 4 min read

A general contractor harnesses the power of AI and digital tools on a tablet to enhance building site efficiency.
A general contractor harnesses the power of AI and digital tools on a tablet to enhance building site efficiency.

Everyone is familiar with the tale of Blockbuster versus Netflix. In the early 2000s, Blockbuster was the leader in the video rental industry, as synonymous with home entertainment as Kleenex is with facial tissue. On January 15th, 2007, Netflix introduced their digital streaming platform, transforming the home entertainment landscape permanently. For three years, Blockbuster underestimated the potential impact and staying power of a streaming platform. By the end of 2010, Blockbuster declared bankruptcy, and by the end of 2014, all corporate-owned stores had been closed. Blockbuster did not adapt.


The year is 2025. General contractors are orchestrating a complex symphony of tasks: estimating and bidding, project planning, contract negotiating, scheduling and coordinating subcontractors, ordering materials and supplies, budget management, quality control, safety management, communication and reporting (to clients, architects, engineers), obtaining permits, handling inspections, and addressing warranty issues. Having 20 plates spinning at once, having to actually physically be present or manually complete these tasks takes so much time. But what if technology could offer a better way?

Just as streaming revolutionized home entertainment, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to transform the construction industry. We believe that by embracing AI, general contractors could finish projects 10% to 15% sooner and potentially save 5% to 15% on costs. Forward-thinking general contractors are recognizing that AI is not just a futuristic concept but a practical toolset that can deliver a crucial competitive advantage.


AI: Your Competitive Edge in Construction

Here's how leading AI solutions are empowering general contractors to work smarter, not harder:

  • Autodesk Construction Cloud: This comprehensive platform provides a suite of tools for managing construction projects.

  • Procore: A leading construction management software provider, Procore offers a range of tools to enhance project execution.

    • Procore Analytics provides data-driven insights into project performance, helping identify trends, improve efficiency, and reduce risks.

    • The Procore App Marketplace offers a wide range of integrations with AI-powered tools for specific tasks like scheduling, estimating, and safety management.

  • OpenSpace: OpenSpace specializes in reality capture and AI-powered progress tracking.

    • Their core offering uses AI to map 360° photos to project plans, creating a visual timeline of construction progress.

    • OpenSpace ClearSight Progress Tracking] leverages computer vision AI to automatically track the progress of key construction elements, comparing it to the planned schedule.

  • Smartvid.io (Acquired by eSUB): Smartvid.io focuses on improving construction safety through AI.

    • Their AI-powered safety monitoring uses computer vision to analyze images and videos, automatically identifying safety hazards and at-risk behaviors.

  • ALICE Technologies: ALICE Technologies provides an AI-driven platform for construction scheduling and simulation.

    • Their core offering allows contractors to generate and compare thousands of potential project schedules, optimizing for time, cost, and resource allocation.

  • Toggle: Toggle is revolutionizing rebar assembly with robotics and AI.

    • Their solution automates the process of rebar placement, reducing labor costs and improving the speed and accuracy of this critical task.

  • Doxel: Doxel offers AI-powered progress tracking and earned value management.

    • Their platform uses computer vision and AI to track construction progress in real time, compare it to the schedule and budget, and provide actionable insights to improve project performance.


Here's How BDHE Consulting Can Help:

At BDHE Consulting, we understand that navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of AI can be daunting. That's why we're dedicated to helping construction companies like yours embrace the power of AI and integrate these cutting-edge solutions seamlessly into your operations. We offer:

  • AI Strategy Development: We'll work with you to identify the specific areas where AI can have the greatest impact on your business, developing a tailored roadmap for implementation.

  • Solution Selection and Integration: We'll help you choose the right AI tools from leading providers like those listed above, ensuring they align with your unique needs and existing systems. Our experts will then guide you through the integration process, minimizing disruption and maximizing efficiency.

  • Training and Support:  We provide comprehensive training programs to empower your team to effectively utilize these new AI tools, ensuring a smooth transition and long-term success. We also provide on-going support.

  • Change Management:  We'll help you manage the organizational changes that come with adopting new technology, fostering a culture of innovation and ensuring buy-in from your entire team.


Ready to transform your construction business with the power of AI? Don't wait for your competitors to leave you behind. Contact BDHE Consulting today for a free consultation. Let's discuss your specific needs and explore how we can help you leverage AI to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, profitability, and success. Visit our website at bdheconsulting.com or use the link below to schedule your consultation. Let's build the future together.




 
 
 

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