5G virtual workspaces with AI-based Project Management tools for the construction industry

The overall aim of the proposed SmartConstruct project is to develop and demonstrate a 5G virtual workspace with Artificial Intelligence-based (AI) Project Management tools targeting the global construction industry. Through the EUROSTARS project we will deliver a fully configurable virtual workspace to aid the construction industry of residential buildings to finish projects on time, on budget and with the agreed quality. Any software and ICT tool needed for the whole construction lifecycle will be accessible through our platform, which will implement 5G technologies. A centralised data collection will allow the development of AI algorithms to improve project management, communication and software interoperability. The SmartConstruct project is directly addressing the industry challenges that nine out of ten construction projects experience cost overrun; poor management and communication between project's parties together with lack of cost planning and controlling during pre- and post-contract stages. Moreover, the construction sector is lagging behind in the digital transformation and poor software interoperability has long been regarded as an obstacle to the efficiency of this industry. SmartConstruct is well aligned to the EUROSTARS programme, which is designed to support research intensive SMEs with early stage high risk R&D-focused projects with a large potential market and a short route to market (< two years) which is a good characterisation of this project. The consortium brings together two R&D-intensive SMEs, Friend Software Labs AS (NO) and Forecast ApS (DK) with leading research capabilities from the Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen (DK) that will support the consortium in the development of AI algorithms. The consortium is confirmed and fulfils the international requirements of a EUROSTARS project, and the participation of multiple SMEs strongly geared to research and innovation in different technology spheres.