The promise and peril of AI has been a hot topic the past year. Every conference I attend or magazine I receive is focused on AI. They are promoting the cost savings and transformational effects it will have on our business. We can have bots perform administrative tasks, analyze data and do so much more.  The robot construction worker still seems to be off in the distant future. However, that distant future is getting closer and closer. 

Fortunately, a majority of our work requires people. In my lifetime, I don’t foresee AI replicating the work our excellent carpenters perform in the field. I don’t see it offering the perspective of 30 years of project experience our Director of Field Operations provides – and his motivating delivery. Our project managers can encompass several perspectives when analyzing a project status to deliver the best possible outcome. I have yet to see AI offer an equal project analysis. 

Perhaps I am expecting too much from the AI promises promoted in these speeches and publications. However, if there is a way to drive client value then I’m all in. When it entered the mainstream, AI seemed to be geared towards large corporations with the complexity and volume of projects that surpass ours. Increasingly though, there have been tools generated to assist us in delivering tangible benefits, ranging from faster project completion to enhanced quality and cost savings.  

In construction, where every day of delay can mean thousands in lost revenue, timely project completion is critical. AI-driven scheduling tools analyze vast datasets—including weather forecasts, supply chain logistics, and labor availability—to predict and mitigate potential delays. By streamlining workflows and optimizing project sequencing, AI helps ensure that construction stays on or ahead of schedule —all translating into a quicker return on investment. 

 We are exploring ways to use AI-powered cost estimation tools to analyze historical data, current market trends, and supplier pricing to create highly accurate and transparent budgets. Predictive analytics can even account for potential cost fluctuations, allowing for proactive planning. 

Some AI tools are already embedded in the project management software we currently utilize. This software utilizes AI to streamline communication by offering real-time project dashboards. Clients can log in to view progress updates, budget tracking, and timelines—all from their phone or computer. AI algorithms can also send automatic alerts for key milestones or potential issues, keeping everyone on the same page. 

We see the greatest value in AI in the streamlining of basic administrative function, allowing our employees to focus on more complex and strategic initiatives. One of the primary applications of AI in administration is data management. AI-powered systems can quickly process, sort, and organize large volumes of data, ensuring accuracy and consistency. For example, tasks such as data entry, document filing, and record-keeping can be automated. By automating repetitive tasks and enhancing decision-making processes, AI not only accelerates administrative functions but also contributes to increased productivity, cost savings, and improved organizational efficiency.

AI tools offer immense potential for efficiency, cost savings, and risk mitigation in the construction industry. However, their adoption comes with notable challenges and risks. While AI enhances productivity, it may reduce the need for certain roles, leading to workforce resistance. Upskilling employees to work alongside AI is crucial to avoid operational disruptions. Additionally, AI can streamline project planning, risk assessment, and supply chain logistics, but over-reliance without human oversight can be dangerous. Construction projects involve unpredictable elements—weather, labor issues, regulatory changes—that AI may not fully account for. So far human oversight is still required to maximize the effectiveness of AI tools. Fundamentally, if the tools are not delivering positive client outcomes, they are not worth using.  

Ultimately, for clients the integration of AI into the construction process isn’t just about cutting-edge technology—it’s about results. Projects finish faster, stay on budget, meet higher quality standards, and offer greater transparency throughout the process. In the competitive industries in which we build, these advantages can make a significant difference in a business’s bottom line.  It’s a game-changer for companies that want to offer clients more efficient, transparent, and high-quality projects.

We are in the early stages of implementing AI tools to assist our teams in gathering data, brainstorming, or presenting information. However, like any tool it much be checked for accuracy and reliability. It must also be used for the right task. For us, it is an evolving process. For clients, the goal is less stress, fewer surprises, and ultimately, a smoother path to a successful construction project.

It is getting to be that time of year where we focus on the relationships in our life. We spend more time with friends. Family gathers around communal tables and give thanks. It is also a valuable time of year to recognize the other family members of your life – the ones you spend the most time with. The people you work with. 

In construction, where timelines are tight, budgets are stringent, and stakes are high, customer service often emerges as a critical differentiator. The construction industry, traditionally perceived as being driven by technical expertise and project management prowess, increasingly recognizes the profound impact of customer service on project outcomes and long-term business success.

Summer is right around the corner and with its arrival we look forward to warmer weather, time with friends and family, and the surge in construction activities. Beyond the orange cones that pop up across the landscape like dandelions in a field, there is also a flurry of site development and build-outs racing toward a quick and satisfactory completion. This activity creates a critical time to keep projects on schedule amidst heightened demand and potential challenges.

Here are four crucial steps to navigate the busy summer construction season while staying on track with project timelines.

As one-year ends and another begins, it is a natural time for reflection. It also coincides with the season of giving. Looking back over the past year, I am proud of what our employees have done of their own accord and as part of the company to give back to the communities we serve.

In a world where the only constant is change, we are not immune to the financial shifts that influence our clients bottom line. One of the most significant challenges we face in recent times is the rising interest rates on commercial construction projects and remodels. The era of cheap money may be gone, but we built our business during a high interest rate environment in previous decades. We know these rates can be a challenge, but we’ve been here before and we can thrive during these changes.

Driving around familiar neighborhoods recently has been an exciting trip down memory lane as well as an engaging look at the future. There are so many brands taking over existing retail space and transforming it into something interesting and new. Whether it is demising a large retail space or reimagining the use of a former restaurant, there is an incredible amount of creativity being implemented.

For months there has been talk about a looming economic downturn. Articles tease with headlines like “this company stock is set to plummet,” or “Economist who predicted Great Recession has this stark warning.” 

“I got the job!” he exclaimed. “But it only comes with a guaranteed six weeks of work.” The job was to be the Superintendent on three tenant buildouts at Carnation Mall in Alliance, OH. For a 25-year-old recent college graduate, with limited construction experience, it was finally a chance to be a superintendent. It was a risk, but a chance worth taking.  

Walking around the office these days there are a lot of new faces. I have had the privilege of welcoming so many new people to the Fortney & Weygandt family. It has been wonderful to meet so many people, from a variety of skilled backgrounds. I am honored that they have chosen Fortney & Weygandt, Inc. for their place of work. I hope to be celebrating many work anniversaries with them in the future.