The construction industry is rapidly adopting cutting-edge new technologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and create a more sustainable and safe working environment.
AI tools useful in the construction industry include applications used for the design planning ideation and maintenance of construction projects as well as tools that can physically build the structures themselves.
As artificial intelligence-based systems become more prevalent in 2025, providing a range of benefits for their users it will be increasingly important for construction companies to take advantage of the technology available and ensure that their business has the infrastructure in place to facilitate its use.
BIM: Building Information Modeling
BIM or Building Information Modeling tools have seen an increase in their adoption over 2024.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital representation of a structure that uses 3D models and data to make key decisions throughout a building's life cycle. BIM software generates a model of the building that can be viewed from multiple angles and perspectives.
BIM software such as Autodesk, Revit, and Trimble leverage artificial intelligence to optimise the design of the building, detecting any clashes in the structures where they may overlap, as well as predicting project timelines and suggesting improvements to the design.
BIM allows teams to share information, work together more effectively and reduce errors. BIM also provides better project management as BIM can help project managers gain an immediate overview of the project.
Facilitating BIM Software in a construction environment
In order to get the most out of BIM software it is necessary to set up the ideal environment within your business.
Once the software has been invested in it is important to fully train your staff on its effective use.
Ensure your construction business has the equipment and infrastructure needed to handle advanced BIM models. Due to the sheer volumes of data being processed, BIM software can use up a lot of storage space and processing power.
Using cloud computing enables better collaboration between different parts of the business. Cloud solutions remove the need to invest in storage solutions, networking hardware and processing platforms.
If you do not have the storage space or a powerful enough processor on-site to do the calculations, with cloud solutions in place this is no real problem. All of these functions can be facilitated through the cloud, with more or less unlimited storage and access to high-end virtual computers that run the calculations for you.
Drones
The use of automated drones will continue to reshape the construction industry in 2025. Already drones are being used for a number of functions in terms of building structures and other infrastructure projects.
These include
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Drones used for geological surveys equipped with LIDAR sensors
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Autonomous drones used for site surveying and creating 3D models
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Swarm drones that can communicate with each other and carry out vast projects such as underground tunnels
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3D printing drones and brick-laying drones that can physically build the structures themselves working to a set blueprint
DroneDeploy is a cloud-based service that allows construction managers to capture, process and analyse data, offering tools for creating 3D maps, monitoring the progress on-site and creating its own inspection reports.
Aside from construction, DroneDeploy is used in solar, agriculture, surveying, insurance, and mining industries.
Built Robotics have developed the Exosystem, which can add autonomous robot capabilities onto existing heavy equipment through an aftermarket kit that includes GPS, cameras, and AI technology.
Preparing Your Construction Business for the Use of Automated Drones
To properly prepare your construction business for the use of automated drones you should take the following steps:
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Invest in the necessary drones and robots, ensuring compliance with local regulations
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Develop procedures for integrating AI-driven tools with your project workflows
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Train field personnel on operating and interpreting drone and robot data
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Work with a technology provider to ensure a streamlined operation with your current systems
Generative AI
One of the key uses of AI in the construction industry is its ability to generate data surrounding objects and structures that do not yet exist.
In terms of the construction industry, AI can be used to ideate floor plans, create accurate 3D models and develop photorealistic images of concepts and ideas for development.
Using tools such as Midjourney and Leonardo.AI, users can enter a description of a building they would like to see or anything they can imagine, and the software will render an image that looks as if a real photograph has been taken during the operational phase.
Of course, this is hugely useful for architects and designers who want to ideate concepts before the building phase has started.
What Other Roles Can AI Perform in the Construction Industry?
In the construction market in 2025 there will continue to be a wide number of tasks performed by AI-enhanced tools. Some of the other key uses for AI in the construction industry include:
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Project management and scheduling software such as pro-core build a trend and plan grid that uses AI to improve the scheduling resource allocation risk management and productivity monitoring
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Safety monitoring tools such as smartvid.io and construction robotics use AI for hazard detection compliance and surveillance of side sites preventing accidents and reducing insurance costs
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AI model tools like Uptake or Machine Metrics analyse the condition of machinery and equipment to predict failures and optimise maintenance schedules
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Tools like Trello, ProEst, or ConstructConnect use machine learning algorithms to provide accurate cost estimates, track expenditures, and offer financial forecasting
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AI-based supply chain optimization tools like Llamasoft and Project44 use AI to forecast material needs, optimise logistics, and streamline procurement processes
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Quality control and inspection tools like OpenSpace, HoloBuilder, or Veev use machine learning to automate visual inspections of work quality, spot deviations and ensure compliance with design specifications
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Internet of Things (IoT) Platforms collect data in real time and transmit it to centralised cloud platforms, analysing the data and predicting failure trends—these include Fleet Management Systems like Geotab or Samsara that track equipment performance, fuel consumption, and real-time diagnostics, and Predictive Analytics Software that integrate IoT data to forecast maintenance needs, such as Uptake or Senseye
Preparing Your Construction Business for AI-enhanced Tools
To get your construction business ready for the integration of AI systems you should consider the following steps
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Assessment of Needs
Evaluate the specific challenges of your business, this could be in project management, safety, cost control, or quality assurance.
Identify where AI tools can provide the most value.
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Staff Training
Provide comprehensive training for employees, ensuring they understand how to use AI tools, interpret the outputs, and make data-driven decisions.
You should also consider cybersecurity training to protect sensitive data and ensure staff understand the correct protocols on the new system.
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Invest in the Right Infrastructure
Upgrade your IT infrastructure to support AI applications, including robust data storage solutions, cloud services and high-performance computing.
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Data Collection and Management
AI relies on high-quality data. Implement systems to collect and organise data from your projects (BIM data, machinery sensors, site cameras) to feed into AI tools.
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Pilot Programs
Before full-scale adoption, run pilot programs to test the effectiveness of AI tools on a smaller project or task to understand their impact and optimise workflows.
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Collaboration With Tech Partners
Work with technology providers to ensure smooth integration into your existing workflows and systems.
Lyon Tech Supporting Construction Industries
At Lyon Tech we provide a range of cutting-edge systems to help construction businesses remain competitive and implement the most advanced technology available. Our range of services for the construction industry includes…
AI and Data Analytics Solutions
We help construction companies integrate and analyse large datasets through tooling, allowing them to extract actionable insights for project planning and execution.
BIM (Building Information Modeling) Services
Lyon Tech assists with the integration of BIM technologies into construction projects, allowing for better collaboration, visualisation, and project management. Our BIM services focus on improving coordination between different stakeholders and optimising construction designs and workflows.
Cloud Solutions
At Lyon Tech, we provide a range of cloud solutions to facilitate the use of AI-enhanced tools within the construction industry. This includes cloud-based data storage, fully remote working and access to high-end virtual processing units.
Contact Lyon Tech
For more information on AI-enhanced tools within the construction industry and how to integrate these into your business, contact our expert consultants today.
We can take you through the range of options that would be most suitable for your business and help you stay at the forefront of the construction industry.
