AEC firms need a ‘culture of innovation’ to leverage AI

This episode of The Future Built Smarter features Dr. Sam Zolfagharian, president of the AI consulting firm YegaTech, which helps AEC companies adapt to the era of disruption caused by the introduction of artificial intelligence into the industry. A keynote speaker and author of the forthcoming book, “Disrupt It,” Sam also holds a Ph.D. in design computing and construction management and has over 20 years of experience developing technologies for the industry. Of six essential elements AEC companies should focus on when creating an AI strategy, she says the first step is establishing a culture of innovation. “If we can’t get the buy-in from our employees, if we don't change their mindset, it doesn't matter which tool we bring on board, it doesn't matter how much investment we do—they're not going to adopt it. “They might be scared of AI taking over their job, or they might just not be interested to try it because they're missing the ‘why’ part. So, it's really important to build that culture of innovation.”

Even high-level executives sometimes need enlightenment as to the benefits of using AI to improve processes and outcomes. The day before Sam was to present an AR workshop for a company, a board member shared her skepticism about the usefulness of AI. After the session, however, the board member told Sam she now understood how AI could help their employees and augment their jobs. 

“At that moment I wondered how many other executives and board members may have the same mindset because they've been in the industry for a while and are skeptical about technology,” said Sam. “So, I'm hoping that with education we can change that mindset and build that culture of innovation for our industry.” 

To learn more about YegaTech and the upcoming book, “Disrupt It,” visit https://yegatech.com/.