GMI Construction Group Engaged In A £1 million Innovate UK Project

As part of a £1 million Innovate UK initiative, GMI Construction Group has partnered with Leeds Beckett University, software developer Anglestack, and provider of spatial computing and artificial intelligence SimplyVideo to create an interactive digital platform that will enable users to access essential components of the complex legislation contained in the new Building Safety Act.

Artificial intelligence has been integrated into the platform to ensure that pertinent safety regulations can be directly matched to particular types and stages of construction projects. This reduces the risk of oversight while also ensuring consistent and efficient compliance by all parties involved.

The "Golden Thread" idea, which offers a comprehensive and transparent record-keeping system that meticulously follows all aspects of a building's design, construction, and maintenance over its entire lifespan to ensure accountability and transparency, is at the centre of the endeavour.

GMI Construction Group is demonstrating its dedication to innovation and safety in the construction industry by investing in this initiative. This system might revolutionise the way safety compliance is accessible and maintained after it has been thoroughly evaluated and implemented across the industry.

A further source of funding for the initiative comes from Innovate UK, a division of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the country's innovation agency. Through assisting companies in realising the potential of new ideas, UKRI promotes economic development and productivity.

The technology will allow users to immerse themselves in a digital version of the building project using a web app, smartphone app, smart glasses for site workers, and virtual reality (VR) Meta headsets via Microsoft's immersive Mesh environment. Access to AI that provides regulation information, Golden Thread information, and vital safety information will be available during this VR Microsoft Mesh experience, further boosting comprehension and engagement.

The resource might have a significant influence on the construction sector as a whole and cover a wide range of development and construction, including residential, office, large manufacturing and logistical centres, care homes, and hospitals.

GMI Construction Group's Director of Group Services, Thomas West, stated: “This collaboration is a game-changer for the business and builds upon the wider digital transformation that has taken place in GMI over recent years. By integrating AI with cutting-edge software solutions, we can provide our employees with immediate access to crucial regulatory information. This will not only streamline the compliance processes but also bring clarity, enhancing understanding and engagement for all those involved.”

The CEO of SimplyVideo, a Leeds-based company developing AI, smart glasses, and virtual reality with Microsoft Mesh, Alex Deighton, stated: 

“We are combining both AI and spatial computing cutting edge technologies in a truly exciting way, to aid the construction industry in being compliant with the new BSA Regulation.

Using AI to search both BSA regulation and Golden Thread information will save hours for construction professionals. Being able to access the AI and information in Smart Glasses and VR  will be a gamechanger.”