Artificial Intelligence (AI) is embedded in the tools we use every day – to plan, estimate, and execute projects in construction. But as adoption rises, so do the questions. Are you asking the right ones?
With new capabilities come new responsibilities. The smartest contractors aren’t just using AI, they’re asking the right questions about how it fits into their workflow. In this in-depth article, we’ll guide you through:
- The right questions to ask before adopting AI tools
- Common risks of over-relying on AI in construction
- How STACK’s AI features accelerate your process—without taking control away from you
- Why STACK’s full platform gives you more than just flashy automation
When it comes to AI, it’s not just about what the tech can do—it’s about how it empowers your team to do more, with better accuracy, and fewer headaches. Afterall, your projects deserve more than an algorithm and your expertise delivers.
AI Is Accelerating Construction—But Who’s Steering?
According to the 2024 JBKnowledge ConTech Report, 65% of contractors say their company is using at least one form of AI or machine learning. That number is rising fast. But what’s equally important is how they’re using it—and whether they’re staying in control.
The Questions You Should Be Asking About AI
- Can I verify what the AI produces?
Blind trust in AI can lead to costly mistakes. You should always be able to audit and adjust what AI recommends. Your tools should be transparent, showing you what is detected, where, and how to modify it with a simple click.
- Does AI fit into my current workflow—or force me to change it?
Some platforms use AI as a gimmick that sounds good in a demo but doesn’t integrate into real-world processes. You want powerful AI features to be layered into the tools you’re already using for estimating, takeoffs, document management, and field execution.
- What happens when AI gets it wrong?
Even the best models make mistakes. For example, generative AI text can have linguistic inconsistencies or incorrect facts, and AI image generators have issues detecting hands and teeth. You want to stay in the driver’s seat with your data. AI helps you move faster, but your team still needs to review, edit, and own the final product.
The Risks of Over-Reliance
According to a McKinsey report, companies that use AI irresponsibly or without clear review processes experience higher error rates and increased rework. In construction, that can mean blown budgets and delays that ripple across the entire project lifecycle.
That’s why STACK believes in AI as an accelerator, not a replacement. When you’re on the hook for labor, materials, and margins, you need AI that’s grounded in construction logic and backed by real-world workflows.
Why STACK’s AI Is Different
AI should speed up your work, not take over your judgment. Unlike point solutions that focus only on AI, STACK offers a full-stack platform—from precon to closeout—with the power of AI built in.
That’s why we’ve built AI-features and automated tools like:
- AI Takeoffs that automatically detect doors, windows, rooms, and walls, and instantly create a fully editable takeoff.
- Automated Symbol Recognition that identifies repeated trade-specific elements on plans.
- OCR & Smart Search that quickly locates keywords, plan titles, and content.
- Hyperlinking & Autoname that connects to the page you need with automatic hyperlinking, naming, and numbering across project documents.
- Powerful integrations that plug into tools like Sage, Acumatica, Procore, and more for seamless handoffs.
- Offline Sync that automatically updates what’s done in the office with what’s happening on the jobsite when your crews are out of service.
The Bottom Line: Use AI, Don’t Lose Control
STACK isn’t about flashy features with no substance. You need real-world outcomes: more profitable jobs, less wasted time, and empowered estimators, project managers, and field teams who have the right tools at their fingertips.
So yes, lean into AI. But ask hard questions. Stay in the driver’s seat. And choose a platform that’s accelerated by tech, powered by people.
Ready to see AI with a human touch? Schedule a demo today!
