AECT 035: AI Strategies for AEC Marketing & Sales to Gain a Competitive Edge


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Jan 22 2024 33 mins   3
In this episode, I talk with Frank Lazaro, an accomplished inventor, author, co-founder, and chief marketing officer at Sobo, about how AI is shaping AEC marketing & sales, practical steps for implementation, recommendations, and the future of AI in this sector.
Engineering Quotes:

Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Frank:

Can you provide more information on how AI is currently influencing marketing and sales in AEC firms?
How are companies currently implementing AI for product delivery, especially in areas like image recognition, crack detection, and addressing infrastructure defects?
For AEC firms who understand the potential of AI, what advice do you have to help them use it in their operations?
How can firms effectively utilize AI to specifically enhance their marketing and sales operations?
What are your thoughts on possible upcoming advancements in AI?
With AI companions now common in almost every software for enhanced efficiency, what do you foresee happening in the next one to five years in this rapidly evolving landscape?
Considering that plans are integral to AEC, how can AI be employed to interpret plans, perform quantity take-offs, and address specific questions, given the relatively niche focus compared to more mainstream AI applications?
Apart from privacy concerns, what other challenges could AEC firms encounter in adopting AI, and how can they navigate these effectively?
Does the principle of relying on trust while simultaneously ensuring thorough verification and backchecking remain consistent?
What advice would you offer an innovation leader to get ready for the constant advancements of AI in this ever-changing landscape?
What do clients expect when a service provider mentions using AI in their proposal, specifically in terms of faster timelines or influence from recent AI news?
Do you have any final advice for AEC firms aiming to implement AI not only in marketing and sales but throughout various aspects of their business?
Why are relationships crucial in firms, especially for connecting with the right people and staying updated on trends, even in discussions about AI and automation?
How does the non-linear growth of AI make it difficult for people to comprehend and absorb the extensive information associated with its rapid expansion?

Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About AI Strategies for AEC Marketing & Sales to Gain a Competitive Edge:

AEC firms are starting to feel the effects of AI in their marketing. Right now, it's mainly making things easier in tasks like creating content. As time goes on, AI will likely get involved in the software and tools these firms use, and eventually, it'll play a role in how projects are delivered. For now, it's mostly helping with the basics of marketing.
To smoothly integrate AI into an organization, start by creating a clear AI policy led by an innovative leader. Define what's allowed and not allowed in AI usage upfront to avoid confusion when tools like Microsoft's co-pilot are introduced. Acting proactively ensures a strategic approach, preventing the organization from playing catch-up with widespread AI use.
To smoothly integrate AI in AEC firms, first, identify an innovation leader; then set a clear and open AI policy; consider hiring external help if needed; and prioritize training your team to effectively use AI, maximizing its benefits.
AI can transform your marketing and sales game. Social media ensures consistent posts by generating and scheduling a month's content in a day. This not only boosts your relevance but also establishes you as a thought leader. Plus, AI streamlines proposal responses, repurposing existing content quickly, saving time, and making your marketing efforts more efficient.