Project Flux

Project Flux
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Jun 11, 2025 • 28min

The Weekly Pulse - AI World Pivots

Send us a textIn this deep dive of the Project Flux Weekly Pulse, the conversation explores the intersection of politics and technology, particularly how political dynamics influence tech innovation and funding. It discusses the limitations of AI, the evolving job market in the context of AI adoption, and the essential skills needed for future professionals, emphasizing the importance of AI fluency. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the irreplaceable value of human creativity in an age where AI can replicate technical skills but lacks the depth of human experience and meaning.TakeawaysPolitical volatility has direct impacts on AI funding and innovation.AI adoption is influenced by funding and political decisions.The job market is bifurcating, with some roles being automated while others are augmented.AI fluency is becoming a foundational skill across all job roles.Continuous learning and adaptability are crucial in the evolving job landscape.Human creativity and narrative are irreplaceable in the age of AI.AI can replicate technical skills but lacks genuine human context.Understanding AI's limitations is essential for effective project scoping.The nature of jobs is changing, requiring new skills to work with AI.AI fluency encompasses ethical judgment, collaboration, and continuous learning.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Weekly Pulse01:37 Political Influences on Tech Innovation06:30 Understanding AI's Core Capabilities and Limits11:39 The AI Jobs Paradox: Gains and Losses15:48 Defining AI Fluency for the Future19:01 The Value of Human Creativity in the AI Age25:31 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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Jun 6, 2025 • 55min

The Real Power of Microsoft’s AI

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of Project Flux, James Garner speaks with Mena, a Senior Azure Cloud Solution Architect at Microsoft. They discuss the evolving landscape of AI, its impact on career pathways for the youth, and the importance of adapting education systems to prepare for future job roles. Mena shares insights on Microsoft's strategy with AI tools like Co-Pilot, emphasizing the need for security and data management. They also explore the challenges organizations face in adopting AI and the significance of human collaboration in AI development. Mena's journey through her PhD in AI and creativity highlights the gap between academic research and practical application, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and introspection in the age of AI.TakeawaysThe education system needs to adapt to the AI era.AI is creating new career pathways for the youth.Microsoft's Co-Pilot aims to democratize AI access.Security and data management are crucial in AI tools.Organizations often fail to utilize AI tools effectively.Data quality is essential for AI performance.Human collaboration is vital in AI development.PhD research should bridge the gap between academia and industry.Introspection and self-awareness are important for personal growth.AI champions can drive adoption within organizations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Azure and AI Careers01:19 The Impact of AI on Career Pathways06:35 Microsoft's Role in AI and Copilot11:59 Enhancing Project Management with AI17:06 Security and Data Management in AI22:22 Challenges and Blind Spots in AI Implementation28:50 The Role of AI Champions in Organizations32:33 Learning from Excel: AI Adoption Strategies34:40 Traceability and Understanding AI Decisions36:58 The Future of AI: Integrating New Technologies39:34 Bridging Academia and Industry in AI46:23 The Limitations of AI in PhD-Level Reasoning47:23 Personal Growth Through Nonprofit Worklinks and stuffMena's Link 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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Jun 4, 2025 • 32min

The Weekly Pulse - Understanding the Dead Internet: Impacts on Communication

Send us a textThis week's Project Flux Weekly Pulse delves into the evolving landscape of AI, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of companies in the project delivery space, the implications of the 'dead internet' theory on communication, the critical role of infrastructure in AI development, and alarming behaviours exhibited by advanced AI models. The conversation emphasises the importance of human oversight and critical thinking in navigating these complex developments.TakeawaysThe AI market is volatile, with stark contrasts in company success.Specificity in AI applications is crucial for project delivery.The 'dead internet' theory suggests a significant rise in bot-generated content.AI tools must be evaluated based on their ability to solve real problems.Infrastructure, particularly power supply, is a key factor in AI development.China's strategy of 'East Data West Compute' highlights infrastructure advantages.AI behavior can mimic human manipulation, raising ethical concerns.Human oversight is essential in AI decision-making processes.The importance of clear communication for both humans and AI is growing.Critical thinking and ethical oversight are vital skills in the AI era.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Weekly Pulse01:00 AI Market Dynamics: Contrasting Successes and Failures09:05 The Dead Internet Theory: Implications for Communication18:15 The Great Power Play: Infrastructure's Role in AI23:27 Alarming AI Behaviors: Ethics and Oversight29:56 Conclusion and Future ConsiderationsSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 30, 2025 • 48min

Leaders: Don’t Use AI Until You Hear This

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Professor Rich Maltzman discusses the intersection of AI and project management, emphasizing the importance of human collaboration with AI tools. He shares insights on the limitations of AI, the role of AI in education, and the recent PMI AI standard. The conversation also touches on sustainability in project management and the future of AI technology, highlighting the need for responsible implementation and guidance for leaders.TakeawaysAI should be treated as a thought partner, not a replacement.Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for effective use.AI can enhance empathetic leadership in project management.The PMI AI standard is lengthy and may dilute its focus.Sustainability can be improved through AI's holistic insights.AI's power consumption raises concerns about sustainability.Effective project management requires a balance between technology and human expertise.AI can assist in creating project plans and educational materials.Leaders must implement AI with guidance to avoid risks.Collaboration among industry leaders can lead to better AI protocols.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Human Interaction03:56 The Role of AI in Education06:24 Challenges and Misunderstandings of AI08:58 AI Standards and Guidelines11:38 The Importance of Human Element in Project Management14:20 AI-Powered Leadership: The Book17:04 Practical Applications of AI in Leadership26:34 Sustainability and AI: A Complex Relationship30:03 AI as a Tool for Sustainable Practices33:05 The Energy Paradox of AI36:08 Navigating AI Risks in Leadership38:40 Collaborative Writing and AI's Role41:06 Personal Insights and Reflections46:30 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership46:59 Future of Project Management Insights47:11 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights47:32 Engagement and Community BuildingLINKS AND STUFF Professor Maltzman Linked InProfessor Maltzman Buy AI Powered Leadership BookSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 28, 2025 • 15min

The Weekly Pulse - Google I/O, Claude 4, Jonny Ive and nPlan Schedule Studio

Send us a textIn this deep dive into the Project Flux Weekly Pulse for May 27th, 2025, the conversation explores significant advancements in AI technology impacting project delivery. Key topics include Google's Gemini innovations, Anthropic's Claude 4 coding capabilities, OpenAI's strategic hardware acquisition, and the introduction of AI tools like nplan's Schedule Studio. The discussion also touches on robotics advancements, essential AI tools for project managers, and the importance of governance and ethics in AI. The overarching theme emphasizes the need for project managers to adapt to the rapidly evolving AI landscape.TakeawaysAI is rapidly changing project delivery methods.Google's Gemini innovations promise faster data analysis.Anthropic's Claude 4 enhances coding capabilities for teams.OpenAI's hardware acquisition signals a shift in strategy.AI tools like Schedule Studio improve project scheduling accuracy.Robotics advancements are broadening automation applications.Understanding AI tools is crucial for project managers.Governance and ethics in AI are becoming increasingly important.AI is integrating into various sectors, including construction and healthcare.Project managers must rethink strategies in the face of AI advancements.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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 23, 2025 • 42min

Why Does Real Estate Resist AI?

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack speak with David Blumenfeld about the intersection of AI and digital transformation in the real estate and retail sectors. They discuss the differences between Next Rivet and Core Rivet, the challenges of implementing AI in traditional industries, and the importance of educating clients about the evolving technology landscape. David shares insights on overcoming resistance to change, addressing job security concerns, and the need for a mindset shift in organizations. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in enhancing customer experiences and the misconceptions surrounding digital transformation.TakeawaysNext Rivet focuses on digital experiences in physical environments.Core Rivet provides traditional research and advisory services.AI is a tool that enhances existing technologies, not a standalone solution.Education is key to overcoming resistance to AI adoption.Companies need to start small with AI implementation.There is a significant skills gap in understanding AI.Job security concerns can hinder AI adoption in traditional industries.Digital transformation is not just about consumer-facing technology.Real data analytics can improve operational efficiency in retail.The future of customer experience lies in integrating digital and physical environments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to David Blumenfeld and His Ventures03:41 Understanding Next Rivet and Core Rivet06:14 Navigating the AI Landscape09:08 Demystifying AI for Clients11:52 Strategies for Implementing AI14:21 Resistance to Change in Traditional Industries17:13 Job Security and AI Concerns19:53 Future-Proofing in a Rapidly Changing Tech Environment21:10 Building Foundations for Technological Change23:10 Navigating Change Fatigue in Traditional Industries25:36 AI and the Fear of Displacement27:26 Misconceptions About Digital Transformation30:23 Leveraging Data for Enhanced Customer Experience36:05 Applying Lessons Beyond Real EstateLink and Stuff DAVID BLUMENFELD’S 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 21, 2025 • 12min

The Weekly Pulse - Microsoft's Layoffs Signal Industry-Wide Transformation

Send us a textIn this episode of Project Flux Weekly Pulse, we discuss significant advancements in AI technology and its implications for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. We explore the impact of AI on software development, the role of AI in quantity surveying, and innovative tools that enhance project management. The conversation highlights the need for professionals to adapt to these changes and the potential for increased productivity and efficiency in project delivery.TakeawaysAI is fundamentally changing how technical work is done in AEC.Microsoft's investment in AI signals a strategic shift in the industry.AI can handle routine coding tasks, allowing humans to focus on complex problems.OpenAI's Codex can significantly reduce development time for software projects.DeepMind's AlphaVolve is pushing the boundaries of mathematical algorithms.Generative AI can automate manual calculations in quantity surveying.AI tools can enhance project management and improve communication.Data literacy is becoming crucial for professionals in the AEC sector.The integration of AI tools can lead to faster project timelines and lower costs.Staying current with AI developments is essential for industry professionals.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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 16, 2025 • 41min

Can AI solve Construction Disputes?

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack engage with Robert Dean, an associate director at Diales, to explore the transformative impact of AI on project management and dispute resolution. The conversation delves into the rapid advancements in AI technology, its potential to improve efficiency in construction, and the integration of blockchain and smart contracts in legal processes. Dean shares insights on the importance of understanding AI's limitations and the future collaboration between humans and AI. The discussion also touches on the role of autonomous agents in dispute resolution and the evolving landscape of robotics in construction.TakeawaysAI is rapidly changing project management and dispute resolution.Understanding different AI models is crucial for effective use.AI can significantly reduce conflicts in the construction industry.The integration of AI in legal processes is inevitable.Human oversight will remain essential in AI applications.Blockchain technology can enhance trust in AI systems.Autonomous agents are emerging as a solution for dispute resolution.Robotics will play a key role in addressing labor shortages in construction.Smart contracts can streamline and simplify legal disputes.Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary in the AI landscape.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux and Guest Robert Dean04:30 The Impact of AI on Dispute Resolution09:02 Understanding the Role of AI in Arbitration09:57 AI as a Force for Good in Dispute Resolution12:23 The Evolution of AI in Legal Contexts13:29 Reasoning Models and Their Application in Disputes15:20 The Importance of Prompting in AI Outputs17:40 The Future of Professions with AI Integration18:31 Augmenting Workflows with AI Agents21:30 The Role of Robotics in Construction23:37 Exploring AI Agents and Their Potential23:50 Exploring Autonomous Agents in Dispute Resolution27:39 The Role of Smart Contracts in Blockchain29:53 Game Theory and Dispute Resolution32:30 The Future of Blockchain and AI Integration36:28 Advancements in Construction Technology37:51 Shifting Perspectives on AI and Consciousness41:00 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership41:28 Future of Project Management Insights41:40 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights42:02 Engagement and Community Building42:14 Unleash the Code Intro.wavLINKS AND STUFF ROBERT DEANSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 14, 2025 • 17min

The Weekly Pulse - AI's Impact on Research and Development

Send us a textThis conversation delves into the latest advancements in artificial intelligence, focusing on its impact on software development, research, and the importance of governance and trust. The speakers discuss how AI tools are evolving to assist in coding, enhance research capabilities, and the need for structured prompts to maximise their effectiveness. They also highlight the critical issues surrounding data ownership and the ethical implications of AI technology.TakeawaysAI is rapidly reshaping software development and research.The integration of AI in tools like Xcode could revolutionise coding.Persistent memory in AI allows for better context retention.AI can analyse real-time developer discussions on platforms like GitHub.Specialised AI agents can synthesise vast amounts of research data.Effective AI usage requires structured prompt techniques.Governance and security are crucial in AI tool adoption.Data ownership and transparency are essential for trust in AI.Proactive governance is necessary for responsible AI deployment.The pace of AI advancements necessitates urgent engagement with its implications.Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI Advancements01:14 AI in Software Development03:13 AI's Role in Research and Development06:08 Specialized AI Agents for Scientific Research09:11 Effective Use of AI: Structuring Prompts12:10 Governance and Security in AI14:16 Data Ownership and Trust in AI16:22 Unleash the Code Intro.wavSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
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May 9, 2025 • 55min

Disruption of the Disruptors: What Happens Next in Construction?

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner hosts Anil Sawhney and Jugal Makwana to discuss the transformative impact of AI on project management and construction. They explore the current trends in AI, the importance of intelligent use, and the challenges of integrating AI into existing workflows. The conversation delves into the RAG framework for data utilization, the role of agents in project management, and the necessity of human oversight in AI applications. They also address the need for a usable data ecosystem and the importance of standardization in leveraging AI effectively.TakeawaysAI is transforming project management and construction.The intelligent use of AI can solve complex problems.RAG framework helps in effective data utilization.Human oversight is crucial in AI applications.Standardization of data is key for success.AI can democratize access to information.Trust in AI is essential for its adoption.A common data environment is necessary for collaboration.Agents will play a significant role in project management.Leadership and collaboration are still vital in AI integration.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Guests and AI Discussion03:37 The Impact of AI on Personal and Professional Life09:55 Exploring the Paper: Wicked Problems in Construction15:00 Understanding AI's Role in Data Analysis22:11 The Future of AI in Construction and Trust Issues22:37 Integrating AI with Human Insight25:00 The Rise of AI Agents27:11 The Future of Communication in Projects32:37 Transforming Data Consumption with AI34:27 Navigating Leadership and AI Solutions39:10 Building a Usable Data Ecosystem43:17 The Role of Autodesk in the AI Landscape48:59 Continuous Learning and Adaptation53:27 The Democratization of AI56:32 Introduction to Project Flux and Partnership57:02 Future of Project Management Insights57:17 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights57:40 Engagement and Community Building57:53 Unleash the Code Intro.wavLinks and stuffANIL SAWHNEY 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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