New research from PlanRadar indicates that artificial intelligence (AI) could play a crucial role in retaining talent within Singapore’s construction sector, which is currently grappling with manpower shortages. The study, involving 1,728 construction professionals, found that 58% believe AI can alleviate significant challenges such as project delays and managing changes. More than half of the respondents expressed a higher likelihood of staying with their employer if there was increased investment in AI tools.
The survey highlights that nearly half of the professionals spend over 11 hours weekly on tasks they believe AI could streamline. Those already utilising AI report saving at least two hours per project each week. Despite these benefits, adoption remains slow, with nearly half of the respondents indicating no current plans to invest in AI-enabled tools.
Trust and cost are the primary barriers to AI adoption in Singapore, with cost concerns ranking higher than the global average. This suggests that firms are carefully evaluating the return on investment before committing to new technologies. “Construction professionals are not resistant to AI. They are asking for tools they can trust,” said Sander van de Rijdt, Co-Founder and CEO of PlanRadar.
The findings come as the sector prioritises productivity and digitalisation under initiatives like the Built Environment Industry Transformation Map. With the Project Management Institute estimating a need for nearly 2.5 million additional project professionals by 2035, AI investment could serve as a vital retention strategy.
