- 14 June 2023
We interviewed an AI about the advantages and challenges this new technology might bring to small businesses.
In the last year, artificial intelligence (AI) has gone through a boom. As the technology rapidly improves, many believe it represents a new industrial revolution – a sudden innovation that will change almost every industry.
So, how will it affect small construction and trades businesses? We looked into some potential advantages and disadvantages – then asked an AI whether it agreed with our list.
The positives: smarter, better, faster, stronger
Greater productivity
With AI or robots handling repetitive tasks, human workers are free to focus on technical, hands-on jobs.
Better quality and efficiency
AI’s speed and accuracy ensures a result that can account for more variables than a human might factor in.
More accurate budgets and timelines
AI can look at historical data and other factors that might affect the work to more accurately predict deadlines and bottom lines.
Safer workplaces
Intelligent robots are a potential solution for handling dangerous jobs, and eliminate risks of human error due to fatigue.
Always-on ability
AI doesn’t need lunch breaks, sick days or holidays. As long as it’s properly maintained, it potentially offers 24/7 productivity.
The negatives: more money, more problems
High costs
While prices will drop with time, the cost of setting up and maintaining these complex systems and machines makes them largely unattainable for small businesses.
Unemployment of human workers
While AI doesn’t automatically lead to job loss, businesses will need to invest in reskilling to help their workers add value in new areas.
Lack of personality.
AI can handle repetitive tasks extremely quickly, but is unable to offer the bespoke, intuitive solutions a human might come up with.
Security risks
AI software can be vulnerable to outside attacks like data manipulation and theft. This can lead it to make significant errors, damaging your output.
Doesn’t improve with experience… yet.
Machines can store data and analyse it, but can’t learn from it like a human can. This will undoubtedly change as its intelligence grows.
Interview with an Artificial Intelligence
Human: Do you agree with our list of potential advantages?
AI: I don't have personal opinions or beliefs. However, I can provide an analysis of the potential advantages of using AI in small construction businesses based on the information you provided.
It's important to note that while AI can offer the above-mentioned potential advantages, its implementation and effectiveness may vary depending on various factors, such as the specific AI technologies used, the complexity of construction tasks, and the readiness of the organisation to adopt and integrate AI into its operations.
Human: And can you offer any insights on our potential disadvantages?
AI: It's essential for businesses to carefully evaluate the costs, risks, and potential drawbacks associated with implementing AI, while also considering the specific needs and circumstances of their operations. Balancing the advantages and disadvantages is crucial for making informed decisions regarding the integration of AI technologies in construction workflows.
Human: Should workers be worried about potentially losing jobs to AI?
AI: It is important for workers in the construction industry to stay informed about AI developments, be proactive in acquiring new skills, and engage in lifelong learning.
Summing it all up
By embracing technology and adapting to its integration, workers can position themselves for new opportunities and contribute to the changing landscape of the industry.
We interviewed an AI about the advantages and challenges this new technology might bring to small businesses.
In the last year, artificial intelligence (AI) has gone through a boom. As the technology rapidly improves, many believe it represents a new industrial revolution – a sudden innovation that will change almost every industry.
So, how will it affect small construction and trades businesses? We looked into some potential advantages and disadvantages – then asked an AI whether it agreed with our list.
The positives: smarter, better, faster, stronger
Greater productivity
With AI or robots handling repetitive tasks, human workers are free to focus on technical, hands-on jobs.
Better quality and efficiency
AI’s speed and accuracy ensures a result that can account for more variables than a human might factor in.
More accurate budgets and timelines
AI can look at historical data and other factors that might affect the work to more accurately predict deadlines and bottom lines.
Safer workplaces
Intelligent robots are a potential solution for handling dangerous jobs, and eliminate risks of human error due to fatigue.
Always-on ability
AI doesn’t need lunch breaks, sick days or holidays. As long as it’s properly maintained, it potentially offers 24/7 productivity.
The negatives: more money, more problems
High costs
While prices will drop with time, the cost of setting up and maintaining these complex systems and machines makes them largely unattainable for small businesses.
Unemployment of human workers
While AI doesn’t automatically lead to job loss, businesses will need to invest in reskilling to help their workers add value in new areas.
Lack of personality.
AI can handle repetitive tasks extremely quickly, but is unable to offer the bespoke, intuitive solutions a human might come up with.
Security risks
AI software can be vulnerable to outside attacks like data manipulation and theft. This can lead it to make significant errors, damaging your output.
Doesn’t improve with experience… yet.
Machines can store data and analyse it, but can’t learn from it like a human can. This will undoubtedly change as its intelligence grows.
Interview with an Artificial Intelligence
Human: Do you agree with our list of potential advantages?
AI: I don't have personal opinions or beliefs. However, I can provide an analysis of the potential advantages of using AI in small construction businesses based on the information you provided.
It's important to note that while AI can offer the above-mentioned potential advantages, its implementation and effectiveness may vary depending on various factors, such as the specific AI technologies used, the complexity of construction tasks, and the readiness of the organisation to adopt and integrate AI into its operations.
Human: And can you offer any insights on our potential disadvantages?
AI: It's essential for businesses to carefully evaluate the costs, risks, and potential drawbacks associated with implementing AI, while also considering the specific needs and circumstances of their operations. Balancing the advantages and disadvantages is crucial for making informed decisions regarding the integration of AI technologies in construction workflows.
Human: Should workers be worried about potentially losing jobs to AI?
AI: It is important for workers in the construction industry to stay informed about AI developments, be proactive in acquiring new skills, and engage in lifelong learning.
Summing it all up
By embracing technology and adapting to its integration, workers can position themselves for new opportunities and contribute to the changing landscape of the industry.
