Artificial Intelligence (AI) is getting smarter by the minute, transforming how industries operate—including construction. Over the past decade, the tools available to contractors have completely changed. From software programs to AI-powered systems, the goal is to make your work more convenient.
But what happens when the software gets more efficient and the AI gets more knowledgeable? Does that mean as a Quantity Surveyor (QS), you’ll be out of a job?
The answer is no. AI and software won’t replace QSs. Instead, they’ll enhance how you work, making your job easier, faster, and more efficient. Let’s break it down.
How AI is changing the QS role.
AI is already proving its value in the construction industry. One game-changing application is contract analysis. AI can scan contracts in seconds, flagging changes or sneaky clauses that might have gone unnoticed. This saves you valuable time and headaches, knowing nothing has slipped through the cracks.
Measurement tools are another area where AI is making an impact. Advanced software now uses facial recognition technology to read drawings and calculate measurements, eliminating manual processes and saving you more time to focus on the project at hand.
Practical tools can transform your business.
You’re probably already using tools that boost productivity without even realising it. Platforms like Canva and ChatGPT, software for professional letter templates, photo documentation, and clock-in/clock-out tracking, have become part of many contractor workflows.
Payment and cost management software is also transforming the way contractors work. From handling life costs to automating payment claims, these systems simplify complex processes. Excel is probably still the most popular way to track expenses, but it still takes a lot of manual effort. Why not use one of the many software tools to handle it al for you? If you don’t start updating your systems soon, you’ll be left behind.
At the end of the day, humans are still essential.
No matter how advanced AI becomes, it still needs a human to review it. These tools might provide data, but they can’t interpret it or make decisions tailored to your project needs. Whether you’re managing costs, checking contract terms, or planning workflows, a QS will always be crucial to consider that context.
Smaller companies, particularly, have a huge opportunity to harness these tools. The construction industry has been slow to embrace digitisation, but competitors and international firms are already leading the way. By adopting these technologies now, you can stay ahead of the game instead of falling behind.
Conclusion
Software and AI are transforming the QS role, but they’re not here to replace you. These tools are designed to make you more efficient and effective, not redundant. Embracing technology is key to staying competitive in today’s fast-changing industry.
If you’re ready to take your QS processes to the next level with the latest software, contact us today at Carroll Estimating to learn how our team of professional QS and Estimators can support you.