Technology

The importance of domain expertise when using AI

“A software partner with domain expertise is the most important factor for success with any AI-based project.”

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The cost of accessing AI technologies has seen a remarkable decrease over the past five years. Remarkably, entry-level access to OpenAI's Chat GPT 3.5 model, one of the most sophisticated AI tools to date, is now completely free. While other tools such as Gemini and Grok exist in the market, they typically cater to a broad audience rather than addressing specific industry challenges. For instance, though they may suffice for tasks like email composition or Excel macro generation, these tools lack robust solutions tailored to the unique needs of the construction sector.

One of the biggest perks of industry-specific AI is that it's built with the problem set in mind. For construction, this means AI is trained on how job costing works, on understanding how things like change orders or general conditions affects the profit margins of a job. A software partner with domain expertise is the most important factor for success with any AI-based project. The less time spent trying to shoehorn a generic solution into your business means there is more time actually getting stuff done.

One of the greatest advantages of industry-specific AI lies in its tailored approach to problem-solving. In construction, this entails AI models being trained to comprehend aspects such as job costing intricacies and the impact of factors like change orders and general conditions on project profitability. Ultimately, having a software partner with domain expertise emerges as the linchpin for success in any AI-based endeavor. Minimizing time spent adapting generic solutions means more time devoted to actual productivity.

Here are three things to keep in mind when evaluating an AI platform:

  1. Industry-Specific Expertise:

Construction companies should seek AI software that demonstrates deep industry-specific expertise. This entails ensuring that the software provider understands the unique challenges, workflows, and regulations inherent to the construction sector. Look for solutions that have been specifically trained on construction-related problem sets, such as construction financial management and risk detection. By choosing software tailored to the construction industry, companies can better address their specific needs and optimize their operations more effectively.

  1. Customization and Flexibility:

It's essential for construction companies to assess the level of customization and flexibility offered by AI software solutions. Construction companies vary greatly in the type of work they do and the complexity of their projects, so it's crucial to choose software that can be tailored to meet specific corporate requirements. Look for solutions that allow for customization of algorithms, workflows, and data inputs to accommodate how you run your business. Additionally, consider software that offers scalability, ensuring that it can grow alongside the company's needs.

  1. Integration and User Experience:

Construction companies should prioritize AI software solutions that offer seamless integration with existing systems and technologies commonly used in the industry. Look for software that can easily integrate with project management software, accounting systems, and other essential tools used in construction workflows. Smooth integration ensures data continuity and eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving time and reducing the risk of errors.

   

The significance of choosing the right software cannot be overstated. Generic software may offer versatility, but it often falls short of excelling in any particular area. Conversely, industry-specific software functions like a knowledgeable ally intimately acquainted with the intricacies of your business operations.