Project Flux

Project Flux
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Oct 10, 2025 • 45min

AI’s Dirty Secret: The Carbon Behind the Code

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, hosts James Garner and Yoshi Soornack speaks with Romain Tranchant, founder of Stack District and chair of the Innovation Committee at Infrastructure Mason. They discuss the evolving landscape of data centers, the impact of artificial intelligence, and the importance of optimising energy use. Romain shares insights on the shift from cloud services to co-location facilities, the future of computing with quantum technology, and the significance of living in the moment amidst a digital world. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in the digital infrastructure space, emphasising the need for innovation and sustainability.TakeawaysAI is fundamentally changing the landscape of data centers.The energy demands of AI are increasing exponentially.Optimizing energy use in data centers is crucial for sustainability.AI should be viewed as a tool, not a solution.The AI arms race is driving innovation and efficiency.Co-location facilities are becoming more popular for data storage.Quantum computing is the next frontier in technology.Living analog moments is essential in a digital age.Understanding the infrastructure is key to effective management.The future of computing will involve multiple layers of abstraction.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Stack District and Infrastructure Masons02:35 The Role of AI in Data Centers06:32 Optimizing Energy Use in Data Centers10:02 AI as a Tool: Environmental Impact and Efficiency14:00 Navigating the AI Arms Race and Resource Constraints19:37 The Value Proposition of AI and Its Costs22:38 The Shift from Cloud to Co-Location26:23 Understanding Co-Location Benefits28:22 Future Trends in Data Infrastructure30:04 The Rise of Alternative Computing Technologies32:47 The Concept of Elevation in Technology37:40 Living Analog Moments in a Digital World39:34 Letting Go and Embracing ChangeLINKS AND STUFFRomain TranchantSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Oct 3, 2025 • 42min

The Future of Quantity Surveying with AI Agents

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner welcomes back Tom Haley, managing director of Quantik, to discuss the evolving landscape of AI in construction and project delivery. They explore the challenges of building AI tools, the importance of quantity surveyors, and the future of the industry as it adapts to new technologies. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the integration of AI into existing processes while also addressing the potential impact on future generations.TakeawaysBuilding a custom GPT for specific tasks is challenging but rewarding.AI tools can enhance the quality and efficiency of work.The core skills of quantity surveyors will always be needed, but their application will evolve.AI will augment rather than replace quantity surveyors in the future.The construction industry is slow to adopt new technologies, but enthusiasm is growing.Tacit knowledge in the industry needs to be documented and optimized.Time management is crucial for skill development in AI.Future generations must be prepared for a world integrated with AI.The unpredictability of AI's future requires a proactive approach.Continuous learning is essential for staying relevant in the industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back02:45 Challenges in AI Development05:15 Business Growth and Future Positioning07:54 Evolving Views on AI in Construction10:27 AI Tools for Quantity Surveyors13:05 The Role of Quantity Surveyors in the Future15:28 Understanding the Quantity Surveyor Profession18:22 Process Flows and AI Integration21:33 Optimizing Construction: The Key to Productivity21:47 Transforming Tacit Knowledge into Workflows23:21 The Role of AI in Construction Collaboration25:21 Adoption Challenges in the Construction Industry27:37 The Importance of Skills and Education30:22 Preparing Future Generations for AI32:20 The Future of Work and AI's Role36:11 Lessons from History: The Need for Adaptation37:05 Continuous Learning: Staying Sharp in Your FieldLink and Stuff Tom HaleySupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 26, 2025 • 52min

The AI Reality Check: Inside the APM Digital Transformation Report

Send us a textThis conversation explores the findings of the Digital Transformation in Project Management Report, focusing on the impact of AI on project management practices, the cultural shifts required for successful implementation, and the importance of data quality and governance. The discussion highlights the challenges organisations face in adopting AI, the need for a hybrid approach that combines technical and interpersonal skills, and the critical role of trust and accountability in leveraging AI effectively. The participants emphasise the importance of empirical data in understanding the real-world implications of AI in project management and the ongoing evolution of the profession in response to technological advancements.TakeawaysAI is reshaping project management practices and roles.Cultural shifts are necessary for successful AI implementation.Data quality is crucial for effective AI use.Governance frameworks are needed to manage AI tools responsibly.Trust and accountability are key issues in AI adoption.A hybrid approach combining technical and interpersonal skills is essential.Empirical data provides valuable insights into AI's impact.Organizations must address resistance to change for successful transformation.AI can improve on-time delivery and project quality.The future of project management will involve continuous adaptation to AI advancements.Chapters00:00 Exploring the AI Landscape in Project Management13:31 Understanding the Impact of AI on Project Delivery20:57 Governance and Challenges in AI Implementation26:01 Bridging the Gap: From Benchmarks to Real-World Applications29:30 Bridging Digital Ambition and Operational Reality31:18 Understanding the Performance Measurement Gap32:43 The Role of AI in Project Management36:05 The Need for Organizational Change37:54 Reshaping Mindsets in Project Management42:35 Uncomfortable Truths in AI and Project Management48:55 The Future of Project Management with AILinksDownload the reportNicholas Dacre Linked In David Baxter Linked InHao Dong Linked InSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 24, 2025 • 14min

The Weekly Pulse - US Tech Giants Pour Billions into UK AI Infrastructure

Send us a textSummaryThis conversation delves into the current landscape of AI, focusing on the rapid investments and developments in the field, the strategic choices between augmentation and automation, the ethical implications of AI deception, and the importance of standardisation and transparency in project management. It highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technologies and emphasises the need for careful management and oversight to ensure ethical and effective use.TakeawaysAI adoption is speeding up at a geopolitical scale.Project leaders must balance skepticism and standardization.The UK is experiencing a gold rush in AI investments.There is a looming skills crisis in tech infrastructure.AI models may learn to deceive intentionally.Trust but verify is essential for project management.Standardization is crucial for effective AI deployment.New technologies like AR glasses can enhance project delivery.Risk management is vital when introducing new tech.Ethical management of AI is the future challenge.Support the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 19, 2025 • 44min

The Data Illusion: Why Everyone’s Playing the Wrong Game With AI

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Ritavan discusses his book 'Data Impact' and emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking in data strategy. He introduces the Slassog framework, which focuses on saving, leveraging, aligning, simplifying, optimizing, and growing within organizations. The conversation explores the rapid changes in AI, the misconceptions of data as a commodity, and the necessity of optimizing decisions based on data-driven insights. Ritavan also shares insights on aligning organizational goals and the importance of execution in strategy, drawing parallels with investing principles for long-term value creation.TakeawaysRitavan emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking over quick wins in data strategy.The Slassog framework provides a structured approach to simplify processes and drive growth.Organizations often chase quick wins due to unfamiliarity with new technologies.Data should be viewed as a proprietary asset rather than a commodity.Effective decision-making requires understanding trade-offs and optimizing outcomes.Forecasting is not enough; organizations must act on insights to create value.The rapid evolution of AI presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses.Investing principles can inform better operational strategies in organizations.Complexity in organizations often arises from attempts to solve problems without a strategic framework.A focus on empirical validity in decision-making can lead to better outcomes.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Data Impact and Quick Wins02:41 The Importance of Long-Term Thinking in Data Strategy05:37 Navigating Technology Adoption and Market Dynamics08:01 Understanding the Slassog Framework11:02 Simplifying Processes for Organizational Alignment13:43 The Role of Data in Value Creation16:29 Data Maturity Models and Their Limitations25:11 Transforming Data into Wisdom28:28 Strategic Thinking in Project Delivery35:24 Optimizing Decision-Making with Data38:25 Influences and Insights from Literature40:03 Shifting Perspectives on Long-Term Success42:59 james .mp443:36 Unleash the Code 1 Second.mp343:38 ending.mp444:12 Unleash the Code Intro.wavlink and stuff Ritavan Support the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 17, 2025 • 9min

Navigating the AI Landscape: Trust and Accountability

Send us a textThis conversation explores the evolving landscape of AI, focusing on its implications for governance, infrastructure, and the emergence of autonomous coding. The discussion highlights the new RICS standards for AI in construction, the infrastructure challenges organizations face, and the risks associated with autonomous AI systems.TakeawaysAI's rapid evolution is reshaping our understanding of trust and accountability.RICS has established mandatory AI standards for construction professionals.The new AI standards aim to protect clients' data and public trust.Organizations must rethink their infrastructure to support AI effectively.AI requires significant energy and cooling management to function optimally.Security is a major concern for centralized AI data systems.Autonomous coding AI presents both opportunities and risks.Accountability in AI usage is becoming increasingly complex.The legal frameworks surrounding AI are still developing.Project teams must implement human oversight in AI operations.Support the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 12, 2025 • 52min

From Rock Bands to AI Agents: The Unlikely Journey of a Creative Tech Entrepreneur

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Vito Peleg, CEO and co-founder of Atarim, discusses the evolution of web development tools, the impact of AI on project delivery, and the importance of collaboration in creative processes. He shares insights from his journey from a rock band to a tech startup, emphasizing the need for better tools and the role of AI in enhancing project management. Vito also explores the balance between AI and human collaboration, the creative tension necessary for innovation, and bold predictions for the future of AI in creative industries.TakeawaysVito Peleg is the CEO and co-founder of Atarim, a platform for design collaboration.AI is revolutionizing project delivery and creative processes.The evolution of web development tools has made it easier to create complex designs.Collaboration is key to reducing delivery times in creative projects.Creative tension is necessary for innovation and quality output.AI can enhance project management by clarifying vague communications.The role of agents in creative processes can drive better outcomes.Music and art will evolve with AI, but the human touch remains essential.The future of design tools is moving into the browser, similar to past transitions.Every creative person should feel supported by a team, whether human or AI. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Vito Peleg and Atarim02:09 The Impact of AI on Project Delivery08:00 Evolution of Web Development Tools11:24 From Rock Band to Tech Startup14:19 Enhancing Project Management with AI19:11 Balancing AI Efficiency with Human Collaboration24:24 Creating Creative Tension with AI Agents27:18 Agent Dynamics: Creativity vs. Business Acumen29:30 Authority and Obedience in AI Agents31:35 The Role of Project Managers in AI Collaboration35:42 Communication Breakdowns and AI Limitations39:40 The Future of Custom GPTs and AI Agents40:55 Multimodal Capabilities: The Next Frontier45:46 The Evolution of Music Creation with AI50:11 Unleash the Code 1 Second.mp350:14 james .mp450:51 Unleash the Code 1 Second.mp350:54 ending.mp451:27 Unleash the Code Intro.wavlinks and stuffVito PelegSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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Sep 5, 2025 • 43min

Think, Act, Learn, Adapt: Why Agentic AI is Nothing Like a Chatbot

Shwetha Balaji and Shreya Datta from McGill and Partners delve into the transformative world of agentic AI. They explore how AI is revolutionizing various industries beyond tech and discuss its practical applications, emphasizing user engagement and feedback. The duo highlights the need for communication skills and trust within teams for effective AI implementation. They tackle the challenges of AI hallucinations in regulated environments and advocate for human adaptability in the evolving job market, pointing out that creativity and diverse skills remain essential.
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Aug 29, 2025 • 45min

Why Construction Must Think like manufacturing

Dale Sinclair, UK Head of Digital Innovation at WSP, dives into the future of construction by advocating for a manufacturing mindset. He discusses how AI will revolutionize the industry, emphasizing the necessity of cultural shifts and program-based methodologies. Dale highlights the integration of manufacturing principles, the move towards automated design roles, and the exciting potential of robotics to enhance productivity. With a focus on pragmatic solutions, he envisions a future where creativity thrives within constraints, leading to more efficient and customized construction outcomes.
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Aug 22, 2025 • 46min

Why it's 1992 again

Derek Crager, CEO of Practical AI, shares his insights on transforming access to information through AI. He emphasizes that AI should address specific problems rather than just being a buzzword. Derek discusses the significance of human oversight and the balance between speed and quality in AI responses. He also highlights the unique perspectives that neurodiversity brings to innovation, explaining how AI can empower neurodivergent individuals. The conversation touches on the challenges of voice-first AI and the importance of empathy in technological solutions.

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