Driven by a desire to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance productivity and safety, the construction industry is undergoing rapid transformation. In 2025, we expect to see a continuation of this trend, with construction firms embracing even more digitalization and automation solutions. In the new year, we predict companies will make strides in democratizing access to critical project information and related data, empowering their workforce with efficient tools and insights.
Here are the top five trends that we at Oracle believe will define the industry's trajectory in 2025:
AI for predictive safety and beyond
AI-powered safety modules are on track to become increasingly prevalent on construction sites, leveraging real-time data analysis to help predict potential hazards and enable proactive interventions. Imagine AI algorithms analyzing live video feeds from jobsites, to enable instantly identifying unsafe practices like workers not wearing proper protective gear or operating equipment incorrectly, and helping to immediately notifying the humans in charge so they can take action.
By identifying and mitigating risks with the assistance of predictive AI tools, construction companies can help protect their workforce, minimize downtime, and enhance operational efficiency. AI can also analyze historical data to identify patterns and predict potential risks, such as equipment failures or areas prone to accidents, as well as root causes of accidents. This can help companies develop more effective safety protocols, training programs, and other preventative measures. This proactive approach to safety has the potential to significantly reduce work-related accidents and create safer job sites.
Conversational AI-based interfaces to improve data access
The construction industry will look to conversational AI interfaces to interact with data and provide a seamless and intuitive experience. Users can simply ask questions and receive replies, eliminating complex software interfaces and siloed information. This natural language querying capability empowers users to access project information easily, enhancing their overall experience.
As the construction industry embraces conversational and natural language AI, broader AI discussions come to the forefront, including data rights, intellectual property, and public large language models. Navigating the ethical and practical implications of AI requires establishing clear guidelines and standards. Respecting data privacy and ownership while leveraging the power of AI can be essential, and understanding intellectual property rights is crucial as AI evolves.
Additionally, the rise of public LLMs presents new opportunities and considerations for the construction industry. These models offer powerful capabilities, but assessing the far-reaching implications, including the impact on data privacy, security, and potential biases, is vital. By engaging in these critical discussions, the industry can harness the full potential of AI while helping to enable responsible and ethical utilization, mitigate risks, and maximize the benefits of this transformative technology.
Increased Democratization of Data
New interfaces, such as conversational AI chatbots mentioned previously, will also help democratize data access and AI model training, empowering project managers with the information they need, when they need it. These tools will enable users to train AI models without data science expertise. No longer will specialized technical skills be required to extract valuable insights from project data. Making this information more readily available will enable faster, more informed decision-making, leading to improved efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced collaboration across entire construction projects.
From optimizing resource allocation to proactively addressing potential delays, new interfaces will help unlock the true potential of construction data, transforming how projects are planned, executed, and managed.
Accelerated Automation
The construction industry is witnessing a growing trend toward prefabrication and modular construction, which is helped along by accelerated automation and the adoption of next-generation platforms and AI solutions. This trend is driven even further by the demand for faster project delivery and cost reduction, as traditional construction methods can result in more delays and cost overruns. Modular construction offers a compelling alternative by manufacturing complex building components in controlled factory environments, enabling efficiency, precision, and reduced waste.
As the industry embraces technological advancements and more sustainable building practices, the appeal of modular construction will continue to grow. That’s because modular construction makes it easier on builders to incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs right into prefabricated modules. With its potential to optimize construction processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency, modular construction is poised to become even more prevalent throughout the industry.
AI agents as 'Eager Assistants'
Modern project management software has helped enable streamlined workflows, improved collaboration, and enhanced decision-making within construction projects. The next leap in this area will come from further integrating AI technology into these software platforms, particularly in the form of AI agents. These "eager assistants" can help teams manage many of the complex project tasks that currently burden project managers, freeing them to focus on higher-level strategic thinking and problem-solving.
Imagine an AI agent that is capable of planning and executing a drone survey to gather precise site data, then using that data to optimize material delivery routes and proactively flag potential delays based on weather patterns or supply chain disruptions. This level of automation could not only help improve efficiency and reduce costs, but it could also allow human project managers to dedicate their expertise to more strategic endeavors, such as fostering innovation, managing client relationships, and navigating project complexities.
The industry is on the cusp of a transformative era, driven by advancements in technology that are set to redefine project execution. The integration of AI and modular construction methods can help contractors, subs, suppliers, and their partners maximize profitability and productivity. This shift can also help lead to more successful projects that are delivered on time and within budget, while simultaneously empowering construction professionals to focus on the most impactful aspects of their work.
Mark Webster is senior vice president and general manager at Oracle Construction and Engineering.
