Tech & AI LIVE New York: Usman Shuja On AI Construction
Usman Shuja began by highlighting construction as one of the least digitised industries, hindered by its complex value chain and varying levels of technological adoption. He noted that waste and inefficiency remain significant challenges in this trillion-dollar sector.
“Up to 11% of labour costs are wasted due to poor planning,” Usman revealed.
Digital tools, combined with AI, offer a solution, enabling more efficient processes and collaboration. A recent Bluebeam survey underscored growing adoption, with nearly half of respondents allocating 11-25% of their IT budgets to AI – a notable increase compared to previous years.
AI use cases transforming the built world
Usman described AI’s potential to revolutionise every stage of a building’s lifecycle, from design to demolition. Key use cases include:
- Generative AI for design: Automating architectural plans to specified requirements, enhancing speed and creativity.
- HVAC system optimisation: Using machine learning to predict maintenance needs, reduce energy consumption and prevent costly failures.
- Digital twins: Creating dynamic, data-driven models that serve as a ‘single source of truth’ across a building’s lifecycle, from construction to operations.
- Facility management: Implementing AI-driven analytics to improve occupant experience and optimise energy usage without sacrificing comfort.
Usman encouraged focusing on incremental improvements rather than attempting to automate entire processes. He shared a simple but impactful example: Bluebeam’s AI can align design plans in seconds, saving over 10 million minutes of labour in six months.
“It’s the small efficiencies that make a big difference,” he noted.
Balancing innovation with ethical AI
Usman also addressed the importance of ethical AI practices in the construction industry. He emphasised the need for a global framework to ensure transparency, accountability and fairness.
Bluebeam’s parent company, Nemetschek, has committed to six core principles, including robust data governance, algorithmic reliability and explainability.
Usman warned against repeating the mistakes of unregulated technologies like social media.
“AI must involve shared responsibility among users, governments, and tech providers,” he argued, advocating for proactive regulations to prevent misuse and ensure societal benefit.
The path forward
Usman concluded with an optimistic outlook on AI’s transformative potential. By addressing challenges like skills gaps and change management, the construction industry can embrace AI for improved efficiency and sustainability.
“AI adoption in construction doesn’t have to be revolutionary—it can start with small, practical applications that deliver measurable impact,” he advised.
With continued investment and collaboration, Usman envisions AI playing a central role in shaping the built world of the future.
Essential diary dates for 2025
Discover the essential diary dates for Technology Magazine and AI Magazine and its sister publications Mobile Magazine and Data Centre Magazine.
To follow Tech & AI LIVE on LinkedIn, click here.
To enter for the Global Tech & AI Awards, click here.
- Cloud & 5G LIVE | 4 February
- Data Centre LIVE | 25 March
- Tech & AI LIVE London + Cyber LIVE London | 14-15 May
- The Global Tech & AI Awards | 14 May
- Tech & AI LIVE: Gen AI | 21 October
- Tech & AI LIVE New York | 18 November
Explore the latest edition of Technology Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Tech & AI LIVE.
Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.
Technology Magazine is a BizClik brand
