AI Is Redefining the Construction Industry

A recent research report from Dodge Construction Network and CMiC reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly gaining recognition as a transformative force across the construction sector. According to the study, 87 % of contractors believe AI will meaningfully reshape the industry, helping teams improve efficiency, decision-making, and overall project performance.

This optimism comes at a time when contractors are actively exploring AI’s potential – even though widespread adoption remains limited. The report, titled AI for Contractors, combines insights from industry professionals and early adopters to highlight where the technology is making an impact today and where it’s heading.

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Key Findings from the Report

Shifting Roles and Increased Productivity

Contractors anticipate AI shifting work from routine tasks to strategic functions. The report highlights that:

• 85 % of respondents expect AI to significantly reduce time spent on repetitive administrative work.

• 70 % believe AI will lead to better decision-making by revealing insights from complex datasets.

• 75 % say AI could help them learn more from historical project outcomes.

These changes suggest that construction professionals will increasingly rely on AI to augment project planning and management activities.

Adoption Challenges and Early Successes

Exploring AI Without Full Deployment

Although enthusiasm is high, actual AI use remains uneven. More than half of contractors are only now piloting AI initiatives:

• 40 % have dedicated AI budgets.

• 38 % have teams focused on implementation.

• 19 % are updating legacy systems to support AI.

• 51 % are evaluating broader AI applications.

Despite limited adoption, early results show promising outcomes. Contractors using AI tools report strong benefits in areas such as automated proposal generation, intelligent permit submissions, and project optimization.

Roadblocks to Wider Use

Contractors also point to persistent barriers: data accuracy, security concerns, and costs or resistance to change are among the top challenges. Only a small fraction of firms say their data quality is high enough to fully support AI integration – highlighting a critical hurdle for broader adoption.