Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already having a profound impact on our daily lives and businesses as it unlocks new ways of working and increases productivity. Yet, despite being forecast to boost Britain’s economy by £400 billion by 2030, the construction industry has been slower to welcome this technology.

As a sector often perceived as traditional – or even "stuck in its ways" – many of the popular methods of construction used today have been in practice for decades. Understandably, there is scepticism about the advent of AI and what it means for jobs, especially as the shortage of skilled labour grows.

Rather than cutting the workforce, AI can increase capacity and productivity, simultaneously helping to secure positions longer-term as the industry seeks to fulfil the increasing demand for skilled professionals. According to the latest Construction Skills Network report, 19,550 additional construction workers will be needed across Scotland by 2027 to meet output. Our group, and the entire industry, must find innovative solutions to attract talent while boosting productivity and remaining competitive.

By adopting AI to take over time-consuming processes and channelling talent into other business areas, the industry can better tackle skills shortages. Like all new technologies, AI is an enabler; it has the potential to reshape, not replace, work.

Repetitive, administrative tasks can be automated to free up capacity for employees to engage in less structured work where knowledge and human interaction can add value for customers. AI can analyse images and videos during construction to quickly and accurately detect errors or defects, automating manual quality control processes. Using the technology to deliver best-in-class workmanship will enable businesses to reduce additional labour costs and project delays while the industry can benefit from improved quality and standards. And most importantly, AI is an ideal tool for improving safety. On site, AI can develop smart robotic assistance to respond to unpredictable and challenging environments, removing the worker from the most hazardous part of the operation.

From design to implementation, there are opportunities to implement AI at every stage of a project. At the Donaldson Group, we’re exploring a variety of applications, including leveraging AI in our design work to automatically create 3D models from Pinterest-style mood boards and a library of components and textures, from which we can create and manufacture anything from a kitchen to a house. By reducing manual, repetitive computer-aided design (CAD) drawing, AI speeds up the design process and frees up colleagues to develop new creative ideas, enabling us to maintain quality and efficiency within our interiors businesses.

Change in the construction industry has always been gradual, but new technologies have made our workers safer, our buildings stronger, and processes more efficient. While AI is still new, the industry has a critical window of opportunity to upskill the workforce, developing their skills to get the best out of the technology while continuing to drive innovation. By investing in AI early, businesses can stay ahead in the market, future-proofing their workforce while continuing to add value for customers.

Les Calder is Chief Technology Officer at the Donaldson Group