By Mark Brewer – ForConstructionPros.com
AI can be trained to analyze and detect video imagery that would indicate a fault or safety hazard.
As service operations and processes become more complex, advanced technologies such as AI have become indispensable tools for many businesses in the construction industry. In 2023, the global AI market was valued at $515.31 billion but this is projected to grow to $621.19 billion in 2024 and reach a staggering $2,740.46 billion by 2032. So, what does this mean for the state of construction?
AI promises a new solution to two age-old problems: poor service delivery and customer experiences that fall short of expectations – but will we see this come true in 2024?
Eliminate Unwanted Production Downtime
One of the key metrics in field service has always been productivity (utilization): The amount of a contractor’s time actually spent on the job. This ‘wrench time’ typically ranges from anything between 50% and 95%, but most organizations are aiming for around 70 to 80% utilization.
Driving can easily occupy 30% of a contractor’s day, with administration adding a further 20-30%. But with the introduction of autonomous vehicles, travel is no longer downtime. With an autonomous vehicle managing the driving, contractors can prepare for their next visit, ensuring they are prepared.
Because autonomous journeys are digitally planned and routed, they are exceptionally efficient, and take into account EV range and charging needs. Human drivers need help to perform this well. AI-driven Planning & Scheduling Optimization (PSO) software can remove all the guesswork. As well as planning the optimum schedule and routes, the right application can use real-time vehicle telemetry data to dynamically make changes—for instance stopping to charge for 10 minutes, allowing a contractor to reach two more extra jobs, increasing daily productivity by 50%.
AI Can Automate Sales Opportunities
Streamed video data from assets, interpreted by computer vision, will increase the visibility of what contractor can see. For example, wind turbines are routinely equipped with IoT remote sensing. HVAC contractors have access to real-time performance and operational data from thousands of assets sold and maintained at hundreds of customer wind farm installations. Thanks to AI, intelligence from cameras, sensors, service records, and digital twin models can give contractors ultimate visibility.