Dodge Construction Network, in partnership with CMiC, released AI for Contractors, a new research report examining how AI is reshaping the construction industry. The study reveals that 87% of contractors believe AI will have a meaningful impact on construction, with many predicting extensive industry-wide transformation.
Contractors envision AI reshaping core aspects of their operations, elevating project managers from administrative roles to strategic positions that enable predictive insights rather than reactive responses. The anticipated benefits extend across scheduling optimization, cost control and enhanced project delivery quality.
While current adoption remains limited, more than half of surveyed companies are actively exploring AI through pilot programs and preparing staff for AI-related roles. Despite limited use, the study uncovered positive feedback from early adopters. 70% or more of contractors using a combination of AI-enabled project and company management functions report they are highly effective compared with their previous methods. This lays the groundwork for rapid expansion in the use of AI in the industry.
Over half of contractors surveyed express concerns about data accuracy (57%) and security (54%), and more than one third worry about implementation costs and internal resistance. The biggest challenge to wider use of AI in construction is the state of data quality at most contractors’ organizations. Only 26% of contractors rate their current data quality as high.
“The research indicates the construction industry is nearing a tipping point for AI adoption,” said Steve Jones, senior director of industry insights analytics at Dodge. “With high awareness, strong interest and powerful validation from early adopters, contractors appear poised for significant expansion in their use of AI-enabled tools in meaningful ways.”
