The research was conducted by the Association for Project Management (APM), and finds that the vast majority of project professionals now say their organisation uses AI
Furthermore, 25% of project managers said that they are planning to use AI in construction projects.
A 2023 survey found that 63% of project managers reported having no plans to introduce AI, highlighting the rapid adoption of the technology in the sector.
AI is boosting project efficiency
The survey asked which project functions are specifically benefiting from the use of AI, with responses showing:
• 62% of respondents saw an improvement in resource allocation
• 58% in reporting and dashboarding
• 52% in risk analysis and forecasting
• 48% in task and schedule automation
• 45% in stakeholder communications
A further 82% of those already using AI in construction projects said that they are using the technology more frequently than they anticipated five years ago, leaving just 18% saying they are using it less frequently than anticipated.
62% of respondents also believe that current AI will have a positive impact on the industry.
Many believe that it will lead to more accurate data analysis (60%), it will free up time for professionals to work on strategic job areas by speeding up administrative tasks (52%), it will improve cyber security (43%), it will assist in decision making (42%), and it will reduce project costs (40%).
Professor Adam Boddison OBE, chief executive of APM, said: “The pace at which AI is transforming project management is remarkable. In just two years, we’ve seen a rapid shift in adoption levels in the construction sector, with the vast majority of project professionals now working alongside AI tools to plan and deliver better outcomes.
“This isn’t about replacing project managers, but about enabling them — freeing up time, enhancing analysis, and improving decision-making.
“What our survey shows clearly is both the opportunity and the responsibility: organisations must continue investing in training and support, to enable project professionals to feel equipped and confident to use AI effectively, safely and ethically.
“The future of the profession will not be defined by AI alone, but by how people use it to create real value.”
CECA is encouraging the industry to pick up AI in construction projects
The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) released a report in May titled, AI in UK Construction, which outlined the benefits that AI can bring to the construction industry, as well as recommendations for its implementation.
The benefits primarily concern optimising designs, identifying errors, improving decision times, and improving commercial developments and health and safety performances.
The risks to be aware of are the cause of several recommendations, concerning managing risk, cross-industry collaboration, and training with the technology.
CECA chief executive, Alasdair Reisner, said: “The UK construction industry is on the cusp of a digital transformation, and artificial intelligence is the next leap forward.
“Our new report seeks to guide our members and the wider sector in how to embrace AI safely, ethically, and effectively.
“AI has the potential to benefit contractors of all sizes, from optimising the planning system for major projects, to enabling SMEs to boost business efficiency – all of which ultimately benefits the UK economy and taxpayer.
“This isn’t about hype – it’s about helping businesses in the UK construction sector ask the right questions, make the right investments, and upskill the workforce.
“AI should support human decision-making, not replace it. Our industry’s values must remain at the heart of any technological change.”
The post AI in construction projects jumps from 15% to 75% in two years appeared first on Planning, Building & Construction Today.
