Bridging the Gap: Insights & Innovations in Construction

Bridging the Gap Between AI and Construction

Feb 19, 2025

Hari Vasudevan is a serial entrepreneur and engineer leading innovations in AI for construction. He dives into whether AI is a job disruptor or a tool for human empowerment. The discussion highlights how AI can improve safety, optimize key processes with the 80/20 rule, and enhance collaboration between field crews and office staff. Hari emphasizes that technology is meant to support workers, not replace them, and shares insights on using data to improve team dynamics and project management in the construction industry.

31:26

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Hari Vasudevan

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Quick takeaways

AI can significantly enhance construction by optimizing the critical 20% of processes that drive 80% of outcomes, such as project setup and data capture.

Collaboration between field teams and office staff is vital, as AI can bridge communication gaps and streamline processes to improve overall efficiency and safety.

Deep dives

Maximizing Impact Through AI

AI has the potential to transform construction by focusing on the critical 20% of processes that drive 80% of outcomes. By identifying key areas, such as project setup and data capture, companies can address inefficiencies that lead to cash flow problems and incorrect invoicing. This strategic application of AI can significantly boost profits, with potential increases of up to 71% in a traditionally low-margin industry. Emphasizing collaboration across departments ensures that AI addresses the real pain points faced by both field and office teams.

Intro

2min

AI's Impact on Construction Management

12min

Empowering Change Through Team Dynamics

3min

AI and Human-Centered Innovation in Construction

11min

Bridging the Gap between AI and Construction Operations

3min

Is AI a job disruptor, or could it actually make construction more human? In this episode, Hari Vasudevan joins the conversation to explore the transformative impact of AI on safety enhancements, efficiency improvements, and fostering better collaboration across teams. We explore the 80/20 rule in construction, the potential of AI-driven safety metrics, and why true collaboration between field crews and office teams is the key to unlocking AI’s full potential. Tune in for a fresh take on how technology isn’t here to replace workers—it’s here to empower them.

Hari Vasudevan, PE, is a serial entrepreneur and engineer at the forefront of AI, utilities, and construction management. As Founder & CEO of KYRO Technologies and Think Power Solutions, he drives transformative advancements in construction, vegetation, utility, and field services. Beyond these corporate roles, Mr. Vasudevan serves as Vice Chair & Strategic Advisor for the Edison Electric Institute’s Transmission Subject Area Committee, shaping the future of technology and infrastructure. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering, along with professional engineering licensure in multiple states.

TODD TAKES

Work Smarter, Not Harder with the 80/20 Rule: In construction, a few key processes drive the majority of outcomes. AI can help identify and optimize those high-impact areas—like making sure project setups are done right from the start, so invoicing, cash flow, and overall efficiency don’t take a hit. When used strategically, AI isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer for profitability.
AI Can Actually Make Construction More Human: There’s a common fear that AI will replace jobs, but in reality, it can make them safer and more sustainable. By tracking things like long work hours, frequent travel, and risky jobsite behaviors, AI can flag potential safety issues before they become real problems. It can even help ensure workers aren’t burning out by nudging project managers to give them a much-needed break. AI isn’t about replacing people—it’s about protecting and empowering them.
Collaboration is the Secret Sauce for AI Success: AI only works if everyone—field teams, project managers, and the office staff—are on the same page. The reality is, field crews care about getting the job done, while office teams focus on financials and reporting. AI can help bridge that gap by making data entry easier, translating real-time updates across different teams, and ensuring everyone has the right info when they need it. When AI is built with true collaboration in mind, it stops being a headache and starts being a real solution.

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Other Relevant Links:
Hari’s LinkedIn
Think Power Solutions