By Andy Tryba, Contributing Author
The road and bridge construction industry is on the cusp of a technological revolution. As the industry evolves, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for success. One must understand the potential of the emerging technologies that can help solve challenges.
Right now, one emerging technology is shaping the horizon.
Because it mimics human intelligence and makes decisions by learning data, artificial intelligence (AI) holds promise for the industry. When harnessing these tools effectively, you can make informed decisions, streamline operations, and achieve greater project success.
Let’s start with the benefits of using AI in transportation construction. We all know that the success of any project starts with your workforce. But here are some ways your team can utilize AI:
Identifying critical skill gaps: AI can analyze project requirements to identify skill gaps within your workforce. You can proactively address those gaps through targeted hiring or training.
Predictive workforce planning: Bridge and road projects consist of intricate design and planning processes. Using AI to create a forecast of future workforce needs based on project pipelines and historical data will help optimize resource allocation, ensuring the right talent is available when you need it.
Performance management and training: AI also provides insight into individual and team performance. It enables targeted training programs to enhance skills, improve project outcomes, and ensure safety and compliance regulations are met.
Implementing AI creates a data-driven relationship between your human resources and project teams. Strategic workforce decisions that drive project success and boost overall operational efficiency are within reach using AI.
AI can be used in a multitude of ways on your next project:
Predictive maintenance: As you know, road and bridge construction relies on machinery and equipment. Predictive maintenance AI can improve uptime, reduce unexpected breakdowns, and enhance project efficiency by analyzing sensor data and past maintenance records. AI can predict when equipment might require servicing or repair.
AI can also analyze sensor data from bridges and roads to assess their structural health. By detecting early signs of deterioration or identifying optimal maintenance schedules, AI can help prioritize repair activities, prolong infrastructure lifespan, and reduce maintenance costs.
Predictive analytics: AI can analyze historical construction data and weather patterns to make accurate predictions about project timelines, costs, and potential risks. This can help improve cost estimation, project scheduling, and resource allocation, reducing delays and cost overruns.
Project management: AI can analyze historical construction data, weather patterns, and other relevant factors to make accurate predictions about project timelines, costs, and potential risks. This can help improve cost estimation, project scheduling, and resource allocation, reducing delays and cost overruns.
Safety and compliance: AI tools can monitor compliance and safety standards by analyzing video feeds and other data sources. These tools identify potential safety violations, enabling prompt intervention and ensuring adherence to regulations.
Training and simulation: Some AI tools create realistic training scenarios, allowing employees to gain hands-on experience in a safe and controlled environment. These tools enhance skills, improve operational readiness, and minimize the risk of errors or accidents.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) and intelligent design planning: BIM has transformed the construction industry and AI can further optimize its implementation. By analyzing vast amounts of design data, AI can offer recommendations to improve material usage, cost-effectiveness, construction timelines, and environmental impact.
Supply chain management: AI can help predict demand, manage inventory effectively, and optimize logistics. Platforms can leverage AI to streamline supply chain processes, leading to reduced costs and improved efficiency.
Our industry is on the cusp of an AI revolution. By harnessing the power of AI tools, you can benefit from improved project outcomes, reduced costs, enhanced safety, and more efficient use of resources, ultimately helping to address the major pain points associated with bridge and road construction in the United States.
Embracing these advancements will position you at the forefront of the industry and also contribute to the growth and advancement of road and bridge construction as a whole.
Let’s embrace the transformative potential of AI tools, revolutionizing the way we build roads and bridges for a better future. R&B
Andy Tryba is the CEO of Gigster, a software development company.
