Transforming the Field

Leveraging AI to lead teams with efficiency + precision

Dr. Sarah Buchner

In the evolving landscape of construction technology, professionals are often bombarded with promises of breakthrough solutions claiming to address every field challenge. Yet solving complex, onsite issues is rarely as simple as a shiny new tool. The key is distinguishing between what truly adds value and what merely increases complexity. Solutions must start with those closest to the action — field supervisors.
As a superintendent, you bring a wide range of skills and approaches to the job. At one end of the spectrum, seasoned veterans rely on decades of hands-on experience and proven, straightforward methods. On the other, the younger generation is leveraging iPads, advanced software and digital tools to manage tasks. Despite these differences in style and tools, all face a common challenge — keeping projects moving efficiently, while solving problems on the fly.

Whether a veteran with decades of experience or part of the tech-savvy younger generation, you’re the linchpin of any construction project. Your adaptability and problem-solving abilities keep jobsites running smoothly, no matter the day’s challenges. The key to successful technological adoption lies in simplifying, not complicating, work.

Integrating with existing workflows
Historically, many jobsite tools have been adapted from desktop applications, often requiring complex navigation and extensive training. While various platforms offer significant value, their steep learning curves can hinder widespread adoption. This reflects a larger issue in the construction industry, where McKinsey & Company reports that productivity has grown by just .4% annually over the past two decades, compared to a 3% increase in industries like manufacturing. A key factor contributing to this gap is the slow integration of technology designed to directly enhance efficiency on the ground.

Severe labor shortages further exacerbate this problem, making it essential to adopt technology that allows teams to work smarter, not harder. With fewer workers available, improving efficiency on the jobsite is no longer a choice, but a necessity. When seamlessly integrated into workflows, AI can help with navigating these constraints by streamlining workflows and improving efficiency.

For example, AI-driven platforms can help automate repetitive administrative tasks and manage large volumes of unstructured data. By organizing this data and deploying AI agents, the platform streamlines tasks such as scheduling, tracking project milestones and preparing reports. This allows access to critical project information in seconds, freeing you from time-consuming manual tasks and ensuring key insights are delivered to the right people at the right time.

The most effective AI solutions integrate effortlessly into tools already used such as smartphones and group texts, providing day-to-day solutions that simplify tasks without adding layers of complexity.

Practical technology for real-world challenges
You face unpredictable issues daily — weather, safety concerns and material delays to name a few. Success relies on your technical expertise and ability to manage people. Trust, communication and efficiency are key to maintaining relationships between subcontractors, and technology should enhance, not hinder, these elements.

Research from McKinsey suggests that user-friendly tools can play a crucial role in closing the construction productivity gap. Just as communication on jobsites evolved from walkie-talkies to smartphones, the need for fast, reliable communication has remained constant. AI can meet this need by delivering near-instant access to essential information, all while keeping processes simple and intuitive, rather than adding unnecessary complexity.

Text messaging remains one of the simplest and most universal forms of communication on the jobsite, and AI solutions that seamlessly integrate into these existing methods will see the highest adoption rates. By blending into familiar tools, AI minimizes disruption while maximizing efficiency.

Empowering the field with technology
Technology supports efficiency and keeps projects on track. AI solutions that seamlessly integrate into daily workflows will be key in meeting these demands to streamline operations and improve jobsite momentum.

The future of construction will depend on tools that empower everyone in the field, ensuring you can focus on leading teams and solving real-world challenges effectively.

Dr. Sarah Buchner is founder and CEO of Trunk Tools.

Source: Jan Mischke, Kevin Stokvis, and Koen Vermeltfoort with Birgit Biemans, “Delivering on construction productivity is no longer optional,” McKinsey & Company, August 2024.