Project Flux

Send us a textIn this episode of Project Flux, we delve into three standout advancements: Anthropic's Claude, Perplexity’s real-time election tracker, and OpenAI’s recent acquisition of chat.com. These updates illustrate AI’s expanding influence, with Claude streamlining complex tasks across industries, Perplexity setting new standards for live, AI-powered updates, and OpenAI enhancing brand visibility and accessibility through strategic acquisition.We then engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Dev Amratia, the founder of nPlan, who shares his journey from project management in the oil and gas sector to AI leadership in construction. Together, we discuss the UK's role in the global AI ecosystem, the significance of investor relations, and how AI is reshaping project management. Dev highlights the challenges around data sharing in construction, emphasising cultural resistance to AI adoption, and underscores the importance of embracing digital transformation to stay competitive in an increasingly AI-driven industry.TakeawaysAnthropic’s automated computer use AI can revolutionise rolesThe future of automation is rapidly evolving.Perplexity's election tracker offers real-time updates like no other AI powered toolOpenAI's new acquisition enhances its brand visibility and user accessibilityData partnerships are essential for output accuracy.AI is transforming content creation and editing.Dev's journey from project management to AI in construction with nPlanThe changing role of consultants in project deliveryCultural resistance to AI adoption in the industry.Concerns about the UK's competitive position in AI.The need for capital investment in technology.The significance of investor relations in startups.The impact of consolidation in the construction tech market.The role of ethics and assurance in AI development.The debate over data sharing versus data retention.Guest SpeakerDev is a chartered engineer and the Co-Founder and CEO of nPlan, a machine learning company that analyses how past construction projects have performed to predict outcomes for future ones, introducing a transformative approach to managing risk and uncertainty.With a background in delivering construction projects for the energy sector across three continents over nine years, Dev later joined the UK government to lead the national review on AI, published as part of the Industrial Strategy in 2017.Timestamps00:00 Introduction 22:47 The Role of AI in Project Management25:21 UK's Position in the Global AI Landscape28:03 Investor Relations and Attracting the Right Partners30:33 The Future of Project Delivery33:17 Data Sharing vs. Data Retention in Construction36:05 Consolidation in the Construction Tech Market38:48 Cultural Resistance to AI Adoption41:12 The Inevitable Rise of AI in Project Management57:48 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights58:11 Engagement and Community BuildingNplan WebsiteSupport 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

Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Sri discusses his journey as a founder of Rocketlane, a SaaS platform designed to improve client project delivery. He shares insights into the challenges faced by project managers, the importance of real-time data, and how AI can enhance project management processes. In this conversation we also discuss the much-anticipated ChatGPT Search feature, its integration challenges, and comparisons with competitors like Perplexity and Google. We also delve into insights from Sam Altman's Reddit AMA, Meta's open-source strategy, and the disappointing launch of Apple Intelligence, highlighting the varying approaches of tech giants in the AI landscape.☕️ Weekly Tech Takeaways- ChatGPT Search is finally here, but it's not without issues.- This launch highlighted that ChatGPT's integration of AI features is still fragmented.- Perplexity offers a more thorough search experience compared to ChatGPT.- Meanwhile, Sam Altman emphasises the potential for AGI with current hardware.- Despite OpenAI and big tech also competing heavily on compute power and efficiency.- Meta is pushing an open-source strategy that could reshape government AI use.- Open-source models are allowing for greater community collaboration and transparency.- Meanwhile, Apple's AI launch has been disappointing compared to expectations.- Different AI tools are being used for distinct use cases, each bringing its strengths to the table.☕️ Guest Takeaways- Rocketlane is a professional services automation tool created to enhance client project delivery.- AI can automate risk identification and support better decision-making.- The future of project management will increasingly depend on AI capabilities.- Real-time data is crucial for effective project management.- Change management is essential for successful AI adoption.- Project delays often accumulate gradually, requiring early intervention.🎙️ Guest speakerSrikrishnan Ganesan is the founder of Rocketlane, a purpose-built platform that streamlines customer onboarding and professional services automation (PSA) for businesses. By unifying project management, resource allocation, financial oversight, and customer collaboration, Rocketlane helps companies deliver projects on time and within budget, accelerating time-to-value and enhancing customer satisfaction. Rocketlane secured $18 million in Series A funding in January 2022, followed by a $24 million Series B round in June 2024. This financial backing reflects investor confidence in their innovative approach to customer onboarding and professional services. Sri previously built Konotor (now Freshchat), which was acquired by Freshworks (#16 on Forbes Cloud 100).📚 ChaptersIntroduction to Project Flux PodcastChatGPT Search: A Long-Awaited FeatureFragmentation in AI FeaturesComparing ChatGPT Search with CompetitorsSam Altman's Reddit AMA InsightsMeta's Open Source StrategyApple Intelligence: A Disappointing LaunchChallenges in Project ManagementThe Role of AI in 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

Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack discuss: the upcoming project delivery hackathon at Rolls Royce, the significant impact of AI on society highlighted by recent Nobel Prize awards, and the evolution of AI technologies. They explore the collaboration between Boston Dynamics and Toyota in robotics, the role of nuclear energy in powering AI, and the latest innovations from Perplexity, including their new features and legal challenges in the AI landscape. We highlight the significance of hackathons, with a special focus on Project Hack 23, in fostering innovation, the role of AI in enhancing project delivery, and the potential of nuclear energy to meet the growing demands of AI. The episode also reviews the week's biggest news in AI, and features quick interviews with key figures in the industry, including Sheldon Atkinson, Ant Newman, Andy Murray of the MPA, and Martin Paver, CEO of Projecting Success. Additionally, we explore the latest features from Perplexity and its competitive positioning in the AI landscape.Takeaway⚡️ 𝙉𝙪𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙮 is the key to powering AI's growth.🧬 AI is critical for scientific progress, just see the 𝙉𝙤𝙗𝙚𝙡 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙯𝙚 2024 winners🧠 𝘼𝙨𝙨𝙤𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙮 is crucial for advancements in AI.🦾 We’re now seeing 𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨🧑‍⚖️ A huge AI player is facing a 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙚🌱 AI's role in 𝙨𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 is becoming increasingly important.👩‍💻 The PDA community hackathon at 𝙍𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙨 𝙍𝙤𝙮𝙘𝙚 showcases innovative AI solutions.00:00 Introduction to the Hackathon at Rolls Royce03:11 Exploring Associative Memory and AI's Evolution07:53 AI as a Core Component of Scientific Progress10:32 Collaboration in Robotics: Boston Dynamics and Toyota12:53 Nuclear Energy's Role in Powering AI16:56 Perplexity's Innovations and Challenges in AI26:10 Introduction to AI and Projecting Success28:40 The Evolution of AI Accessibility31:52 Project Hack 23: Collaboration and Future Directions32:46 Introduction to Project Hack 23 and AI Buzz33:39 The Growing Importance of AI in Project Management35:57 Challenges in Data Sharing and Productivity37:22 The Need for Standardisation in Project Frameworks38:41 Data Collection and Insights in Project Delivery43:58 The Evolution of Project Hack46:40 Leveraging Technology for SolutionsLink to Project Hack 23 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

Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, we discuss the latest advancements in AI and robotics, particularly focusing on Tesla's recent WeRobot event. We explore the implications of autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots in various industries, including construction. The conversation also delves into the limitations of current AI models, as highlighted by recent research from Apple, and the potential for integration and consolidation within the construction technology sector. The episode concludes with insights on new features from Construct AI and the importance of careful interaction with AI systems.TakeawaysConstruct AI is pushing boundaries in the construction industry.Tesla's WeRobot event showcased innovative robots and autonomous vehicles.Public perception of Tesla's innovations is mixed, focusing on both excitement and skepticism.The CyberCab and Robo van represent a shift towards autonomous transportation.Tesla's technology relies on computer vision, which has its own safety concerns.Elon Musk's vision includes creating an autonomous travel ecosystem.AI models, including LLMs, have limitations in reasoning and performance.Recent research indicates that LLMs may be memorizing rather than reasoning.The construction industry is seeing increased integration of technology solutions.The future of AI and robotics will require careful consideration of ethical implications.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Weekly Pulse02:27 Tesla's WeRobot Event and Public Perception08:24 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles12:05 Limitations of Large Language Models19:39 AI's Role in Project Delivery and Industry Trends27:16 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights27:38 Engagement and Community BuildingSupport 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

Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of Project Flux, host James Garner interviews Professor Sarah Davidson, a leading expert in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and information management. They discuss Sarah's journey in the field, the evolution of BIM, and the integration of AI in enhancing information management processes. The conversation explores the challenges faced in the adoption of BIM, the potential of AI to improve efficiency and decision-making, and the importance of clear information specifications. They also touch on the role of organizations like NEMA in supporting the industry and the future directions for BIM and AI integration.TakeawaysAI has the potential to improve risk analysis and decision-making.BIM is often misunderstood as solely a geometrical model.The importance of clear specifications for information management.AI should complement human intelligence, not replace it.The next generation is more familiar with virtual environments.Real-time APIs can enhance user experience in AI applications.NEMA plays a crucial role in supporting information management in the built environment.Adoption of AI requires understanding its outputs and implications.Collaboration is key to successful BIM implementation.The future of BIM involves integrating various data sources effectively.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Professor Sarah Davidson24:15 The Journey into BIM and Information Management26:54 Understanding BIM: Definitions and Misconceptions29:56 The Role of AI in Enhancing BIM32:33 Caution and Acceptance: AI in Academia35:23 AI and BIM: A Complementary Relationship38:21 Defining Information Needs for AI Integration41:26 NEMA: The Evolution of the UK BIM Alliance44:19 Critiques of BIM: The Need for Transformation47:01 The Future of 3D Modeling and User Engagement58:13 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 Data Analytics Taskforce site

Send us a text“Super intelligence will be here in a few thousand days.”These huge words from Sam Altman mixed with Zuckerberg’s impressive Connect 2024 showcase have once again brought the world of advanced tech to the fore.In this weeks episode, we were joined by mixed reality enthusiast and management consultant specialist Ryan Clarke to focus in on:🕶️ Meta’s reveal of Orion - the most advanced glasses in the world📟 The future of mixed reality and its place in construction🏙️ The fall of construction giant ISG and how to avoid a similar fate🧠 How “massive prosperity” will be the next leap for AI➖ Why ChatGPT’s OpenAI are a cause for concernTimestamps00:00 Digital Maturity in Industries19:10 Drivers of Digital Change22:04 The Buzzwords of Technology25:02 Meta's Innovations and Announcements28:01 The Future of Spatial Computing30:46 Impact of AI on Project Delivery33:47 Challenges in Construction Technology36:27 The Role of Friction in Technology Adoption39:26 The Future of Mixed Reality and Neural Interfaces53:54 Balancing AI and Human JudgmentTakeawaysThe construction industry is digitally immature compared to others.Digital change is often driven by the need to avoid pain rather than to gain pleasure.Buzzwords like AI and the metaverse can distract from meaningful innovation.Meta's recent announcements show a commitment to spatial computing.Spatial computing will likely change project delivery in construction.BIM technology is underutilised in its potential to prevent project risks.Friction in technology adoption can hinder progress and innovation.The future of technology should focus on seamless integration into daily life.Neural interfaces may become more accepted than augmented reality contact lenses.People are often the biggest challenge in technology implementation.Guest Speaker Profile:Ryan is a forward-thinking BIM professional, blending expertise in XR technology with a deep understanding of data analytics to revolutionise the design and construction process. With a background in Management Consulting, he has driven transformative change across sectors such as Real Estate, CPG, Banking, Legal, and the Public Sector. His experience extends over 6 years, during which he has harnessed spatial computing to architect precise digital replicas of physical spaces, notably data centres and offices, enhancing planning, and execution in construction projectsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanclarke3WebsiteL https://ryanclarke.dev/ 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

Send us a textDoes human connectivity impact workplace performance? and how does this dynamic respond to business coaching in the age of AI?This week we’re joined by Philip Crocker, expert in business and performance coaching, to discuss:🔺 How important human connection is in response to performance coaching🕵️ Dark pattern choices by Linkedin AI in how it consumes your data🌱 The evolution of OKR’s within the AI age and where it fits🖇️ Human strengths and AI’s limitations in meta-cognition and meta-learning📘 New features in free AI powered talk-to-your-documents tech by GoogleGuest Speaker Profile:Philip Crocker is dedicated to helping professionals build a thriving and successful work-life by focusing on what truly matters—achieving goals through effective collaboration.As a specialist in Coaching and OKR Development, Philip - former coach at McKinsey, aims to help individuals, teams, and organisations clearly define their desired outcomes. He and his team then create a safe, deeply inclusive space where everyone can explore these goals together and co-learn along the way.By understanding where you are now and where you want to go, they guide you in co-creating a personalised plan to achieve meaningful progress.Philip’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipcrocker/Website: https://philipcrocker.com/ Chapters00:00 Introduction and the Weekly Pulse with Rithwik22:54 The Evolution and Future of OKRs with Phil26:23 AI's Role in Consulting and Coaching30:04 The Human Element in OKRs35:37 Navigating Leadership and AI41:31 The Importance of Connection and Mentorship47:05 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Human InteractionTakeawaysOKRs stand on the shoulders of good management practices.The success of OKRs relies on effective communication and connection.AI can augment but not replace human intuition and understanding.Confidentiality is crucial when integrating AI into organisational processes.The human element is essential in interpreting data and making decisions.Mentorship plays a vital role in guiding new professionals.Learning is a continuous process that extends beyond formal education.AI should be seen as a tool to enhance productivity, not a threat.Organisational culture significantly impacts the implementation of OKRs.Effective leadership requires awareness of one's ego and biases.KeywordsOKRs, AI, consulting, coaching, leadership, human connection, mentorship, productivity, organizational culture, performance measurementSupport 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

Send us a textIt needs considering now more than ever…so in this weeks podcast we sat with Mark Lockton, specialist in business adoption of digital, data and AI to discuss:🍓 If people are falling behind advancements such Open AI's o1, the most advanced LLM to date⬛️ The impact of AI’s blackbox thinking on businesses💭 How perceptions of AI differ amongst smaller and bigger businesses✔️ Effective way’s to influence different stakeholders to adopt digital transformationGuest Speaker Profile:Mark Lockton is CEO of embracent, a niche consulting business that helps mid-sized companies across the world to embrace new and disruptive technologies. Embracing provide simple, clear, and cost-effective technology advice that delivers value and results for my clients, without the typical consulting waffle or jargon.Mark has strong background in consulting, strategic leadership, and large scale change management, having worked with clients in various sectors and regions. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklockton/Email: mark.lockton@embracent.com.Company (Embracent): https://embracent.com/TakeawaysEmbracent focuses on helping mid-sized companies embrace technology.AI can democratize access to technology for smaller businesses.Many SMEs believe they need to spend a lot to adopt technology, which is often not the case.AI's impact is significant, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently.Understanding AI varies greatly between roles within a company.Security must be integrated into technology from the outset.Data quality is crucial for effective AI implementation.Businesses need to assess risks associated with AI adoption.AI should enhance human capabilities, not replace them.A solid data strategy is essential for leveraging AI effectively.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Embracent and AI's Role07:18 The Impact of AI on SMEs12:15 Understanding AI: Perspectives from Different Roles18:15 Navigating AI Adoption and Security Concerns24:07 The Importance of Data Strategy in AI30:09 Balancing AI and Human JudgmentSupport 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

Send us a textIn this weeks episode, were joined by Richard Bendall-Jones, Product Manager and Risk Engineer at nPlan. Together we discussed:👷 How AI is evolving scheduling and risk in construction👨‍🦰 The behavioural dynamics of humans in adopting AI-driven tools⚠️ How to use AI in risk management to identify trends ad overcome human bias🌾 How AI can level the playing field in getting started in project managementGuest Speaker ProfileRichard Bendall-Jones is a Product Manager and Risk Engineer with background in construction project and risk management. He is also a Fellow of the APM and IRM.Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-bendall-jones-181922b0/nPlan: https://www.nplan.io/ Chapters00:00 Introduction and Richard's Career Journey02:41 The Rise of AI in the Construction Industry07:07 The Importance of Data Quantity and Quality09:04 Surprising Trends and Insights from Data Analysis11:52 The Story of nPlan and Key Challenges15:26 Expanding into Cost Prediction17:53 Challenges in Designing AI Tools for Construction23:21 Realising the Role of AI in Decision-Making26:33 Complementing Human Expertise with AI31:49 Making Project Management Accessible with AIKeywordsAI, risk management, construction industry, decision-making, data, bias, noise, project managementSupport 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

Send us a textProject Flux is proudly sponsored by ConstructAI. Check out their incredible AI solution built specifically for the construction industryIn this week’s episode we are joined by Cecilia Lindström, Research Director a Future Places Studio. In this jam-packed episode we discuss:1️⃣ The “AI and the Built Environment” report by the London Property Alliance. Watch to learn:📚 A 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸-𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵 in how humans must set the problem and verify the outcomes of AI🔝 Where we might see 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 across various construction phases👨‍🏫 How we should be 𝘂𝗽𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴, where does the priority sit?🌊 The need to revisit 𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗮 to drive planning🌎 The importance of 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆2️⃣ We also discuss the latest AI news including:👉 The first agreement of its kind between big tech and US & UK AI Safety Institutes👉 Why so many researchers are still yet to use ChatGPT👉 How is ChatGPT’s promised search feature doing behind the scenes?👉 How Amazon might save Alexa with Anthropic’s Claude powering their voice assistantsChapters00:00 Introduction and Background and the latest AI news20:00 - Interview with Cecilia Longstrom25:25 Surprises and Unknowns in AI27:39 Concerns around Security and Sustainability31:13 Regulation and Leadership in AI33:33 Collaboration and Lessons Learned in the Public Sector36:12 Key Recommendations of the Report41:46 Upskilling and Preparing Professionals for an AI Future44:40 Balancing Integration of AI Tools and Human Discernment52:36 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsGuest Speaker Profile:Cecilia is a London-based researcher, nature conservationist and urban designer who specialises in people-centered, democratic approaches to revitalising urban and rural areas in need of transformation. She works collaboratively with clients, communities, and stakeholders to co-create placemaking initiatives that enhance both built and natural environments, address issues of inequality and segregation, and improve the overall lived experiences within these spaces.She was key in developing the London Property Alliance Report: “AI and the Built Environment” (🔗 https://www.londonpropertyalliance.com/ai-and-the-built-environment-research-launch/)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