AI’s Unyielding Revolution in Construction

PORTLAND, Ore. — Stories of how artificial intelligence (AI) is altering industry practices abound, and the construction sector is no exception. With AI’s increasing incorporation, both construction teams and their legal counterparts are adapting. Staying informed about AI’s functionalities and limitations has become essential in planning, developing, managing, and executing construction projects.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence

AI refers broadly to systems designed to emulate human reasoning and behavior, processing inputs similar to how humans do to produce human-like responses. The realm of AI includes various technologies such as machine learning and generative models. The recent surge in AI popularity is notably attributed to large language models like ChatGPT, which can generate human-like responses based on extensive data.

The Push Toward Data Integration

Construction professionals have long been tasked with managing massive amounts of data, encompassing specifications, drawings, notes, schedules, and contracts. Over the last twenty years, technologies like building information modeling and computer-assisted design have fueled a push for even more data integration.

AI Tools in Action

Today’s generative AI tools, like Civils.ai and Buildots, are revolutionizing data processing in construction. They can quickly analyze project plans and improve work management—yet, the reliance on these tools comes with caveats.

The Limits of AI

Despite AI’s advantages, it is unlikely to eliminate mistakes and disputes entirely. AI systems can produce errors or ‘hallucinations,’ reporting inaccurate information that appears plausible. For instance, ChatGPT has previously generated completely fabricated legal citations that were mistakenly used in court documents.

Legal Implications

With AI’s integration, construction lawyers must understand its usage patterns and risks when negotiating contracts. Legal clients increasingly expect firms to leverage AI tools to deliver effective outcomes.

A Future with AI

Although AI may not disrupt traditional construction practices in the immediate future, awareness of its implications and proper use is crucial for all involved in the construction ecosystem. As the technology matures, responsible AI use will enhance operational efficiencies and project outcomes.

Evan Brown is a Stoel Rives LLP associate and a member of the construction and design group at the firm’s Seattle office.

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