Artificial intelligence in architecture firms: structure creates clarity

Beware of too much artificial creation: what you should consider when using generative AI

While the CAD software solutions commonly used in the industry were developed specifically for the design process at the time, today’s AI tools are usually more broadly based: “A look at the industry shows that AI applications are already standard in many architecture firms: Routine tasks such as text creation for job advertisements and advertising copy, simple correspondence in the office or research tasks are increasingly being taken over by ChatGPT & Co.” However, the AI expert urges caution with regard to the use of generative AI, even for simple tasks: “All information generated by AI should always be checked for factual accuracy and usefulness.” Sensitive data and (data protection) legally relevant content in particular should be processed manually and not disclosed in the AI chat, Wendl points out.

Although AI models also deliver impressive results at first glance when generating visual content, the quality of the results often fluctuates. In addition, there are still unresolved issues regarding copyright and the transparency of data processing in AI creations, which stand in the way of the regular use of generative AI in everyday working life. “Brainstorming and brainstorming are one thing,” Wendl continues. “However, professional development still clearly requires a human hand.”

Structure creates clarity – not only in design – the potential of predictive AI

Wendl is far more relaxed about the use of so-called predictive AI models. “Planning management can be sustainably improved with such applications. Through automation and pattern recognition, large amounts of data can be classified and made usable without manual effort,” says Wendl. Large architectural projects are often based on a large number of CAD, DWG and other industry-specific file formats, which contain numerous versions and sensitive information and are also scattered in various storage locations throughout the company. AI-based enterprise search software with automated classification ensures maximum structure and order in the mass of data with minimal human effort.

Documentation and archiving: how projects can be optimized with AI

Complex architectural projects require careful documentation and structuring, from design plans to building regulations and tenders. Intelligent tools now make it possible to create a central overview of project-relevant documents at the touch of a button. This not only provides a good and always up-to-date overview of current projects, but also facilitates the reuse of relevant archive materials and drafts in future initiatives. This saves valuable time and resources in all sub-processes. But that’s not all: AI tools in data management also enable a comprehensive evaluation of project-related data using AI-supported analysis functions – making it possible to optimize future projects. Thanks to artificial intelligence, well-founded decisions are not only simplified, but also accelerated.

Smart and secure: focus on teamwork and project security

AI tools for centralized data management can not only facilitate decision-making, but also collaboration in general, as they allow everyone involved to access current drawings and project-related information. Wendl emphasizes: “Central data management ensures that everyone is on the same page – which in turn ensures the success of the project. If the data is centrally available and always up to date, errors can be avoided and the risk of wrong decisions minimized.” In addition, the protection and security of company and customer data is a top priority when introducing new digital tools in architecture firms. Therefore, only a solution that offers innovative functions as well as the highest security standards should be considered. It should therefore go without saying that the company’s existing authorization system should also be used in any new software. “There are often strict confidentiality agreements in the project area. Not every employee should be able to access all files – this must of course also apply to searches for construction plans, design drawings and other sensitive information,” reports Wendl from practical experience.

An example of efficiency and security: the cross-source AI search function

As an example of an innovative AI solution, Wendl cites searchit, the enterprise search software from Iphos IT Solutions, which was developed specifically for the requirements of architecture and planning offices. This internal search engine offers an AI-supported full-text search that allows even complex information from CAD drawings to be searched quickly and centrally – even if they are stored in different locations. “The software integrates all connected company data and allows, for example, a preview of CAD and DWG files without having to install the license software beforehand. Thanks to the cross-source search function, architects can find relevant content with just a few clicks and thus regain the time they previously had to invest in manual data management,” explains Wendl.

What you should look out for when selecting AI tools for your architecture firm

In general, it is important to pay particular attention to three aspects when selecting digital applications: Practicality, user-friendliness and reliability. “An AI tool must simplify everyday work, not complicate it. Only if it fits seamlessly into existing workflows and is intuitive to use will you have done yourself a favor,” notes Wendl, whose company develops customized software solutions for the planning and construction industry: “The software can be complex, but the handling cannot be. If a tool is to be used, it must be as easy to use as possible – only then will a new tool actually be accepted and used by employees.”

The role of AI in architecture: assistance instead of guidance in the creative process

Despite all the advances in AI, Christoph Wendl emphasizes: “Artificial intelligence can optimise processes, organize data and provide information and thus supplement the view of the big picture with important details, but it can never replace human intelligence and creativity.” In architecture in particular, it has been shown that AI is most useful in the role of assistance: “A good AI tool can take over routine tasks and give architects more freedom for the creative process,” concludes Wendl.