How is AI helping Australian Construction Companies?

Construction is a complex field. Construction Projects generally run over budget and over deadlines even with the best of planning. This industry is one of the oldest and therefore hesitant to change and improvement. But did you know, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are already implemented within this industry, particularly by larger construction companies. In this article, we will explore the various tools helping Australian construction companies already, and what their benefits are.

1. ProcurePro - Construction Procurement tool.

   One really good tool that has recently been developed and is fast being implemented across more established builders in the construction industry is ProcurePro. Say goodbye to endlessly chasing subcontractors to sign contracts and copying and pasting scope of works and amending contracts in Microsoft Word. ProcurePro allows the user to integrate their subcontractor contacts via Procore directories, and lets the user implement their own Scopes of Works, Contract templates and input fields. Once all setup is completed, the user can easily draft Scopes of Work for various Trade Packages, draft Contracts including custom attachments and appendices and issue contracts and seek electronic signatures via integration with Docusign. This tool is a life changer for Contract Administrators and Project Managers and is a must have for any company entering into 2025.

2. Procore - Project Management tool.

   Procore is a well established tool is a widely used by all established builders, particularly in Commercial construction. Procore allows its users to professionally store all project documentation, tap into existing database of subcontractors and consultants, manage Drawings, Specifications, Correspondence, RFIs, Submittals, Defects and more. The tool is a one stop shop for complete management of a project, whilst allowing the project manager to invite all relevant stakeholders to the tool so all stakeholders use the one tool to manage all correspondence and the project, with access to the latest information. Procore has the following tools:

   • Cost Management and reporting tool

   • Defects Management and Photos tool

   • Drawings and Specifications tool

   • Email, Correspondence, RFI and Submittals workflows

   • Document Storage

   • Time Management / Program scheduling

   • Form, ITPs, Inspections

3. 1 Breadcrumb - Site Management

   This tool is for the Site Managers! It has a mobile app and a web based UI. The tool allows users to upload their Induction Criteria, Company policies etc. so that all Site Inductions are undertaken electronically, with all documentation, licenses and identity documentation is saved electronically. The best part is that the tool allows subcontractors to upload their Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for the Site Managers review and approval via a workflow. This one is a must have for the Site Managers.

4. Microsoft Project - Time Management tool

   This one is a classic time management tool and has stood the test of time. This tool has improved over the years and helps users create Schedules / Gantt charts to manage sequencing of trades and milestones. The tool allows for complex linkages between tasks and dependencies which allows the user to manage complex projects with lots of dependencies and staging of works.

5. EstimateOne - Tendering and Procurement

   The web based IT tool has revolutionised the tendering of commercial projects as it allows the builder to put up offers of work and that is available for all relevant subcontractors on the platform to review, decide to respond and submit their price. This minimises the administrative effort for the builder, and also helps smaller / less known subcontractors to gain access to hundreds of new projects they could be tendering to! This tools also helps builders in pricing tenders as they can put out tender requests and receive responses in smaller timeframes so they can compile their lump sum price with minimal risk in their tender submission.

   So in summary, there are a heap of tools available to commercial and residential builders today, that can help them minimise administrative effort and focus on the important aspects of their projects and become better project managers and site managers. It is all about embracing the change!

Links to the tools:

• ProcurePro: https://procurepro.co/

• Procore: https://www.procore.com/en-au/sem/demo-construction-management-platform

• Docusign: https://www.docusign.com/en-au/trial/free

• 1Breadcrumb: https://1breadcrumb.com/

• Microsoft Project: https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/microsoft-365/project/project-management-software

• Estimate One: https://estimateone.com/