African Design Magazine ADM #37 February 2018 | Page 37

“Facilities Management will always have a vital role to play within the built environment, and even though many operational roles will become more technology-led, this sector could benet hugely from AI at a strategic level. For example, machinery – utilising AI - will revolutionise the FM industry, making many jobs faster, safer and less costly, and this will ultimately improve a company's service offering and increase their bottom line.” - Paul Bagust, Global Property Standards Director, RICS The Artificial Intelligence in the Built Environment Insight Paper - unpacks how AI will transform the property industry by driving smart, efficient buildings from design through to construction. It also highlights how those in the industry can exploit the latest AI applications and developments – including drones and BIM (Building Information Modelling) - to plan and work more effectively, while improving and be er maintaining the quality of buildings and the wider built environment. Technologies and the availability of data are changing the way investors look for opportunities and investment. This will present a huge threat to the industry if ignored, but again, it presents so many opportunities for those who work in the built environment. So, all businesses – however large or small - must act now and analyse and prepare for how this disruptive technology could transform their role, sector and the wider built environment. Otherwise they face becoming obsolete. africandesignmagazine.com 37