Table of Contents

• This Week's BIG thing

• Another Big Thing

• What's new: Tech

• What's new: Projects

• What's new: Productivity

• Events

• Project Flux Podcast

• Just One More Thing

• About Project Flux

This Week’s BIG thing

OpenAI's SearchGPT: A Glimpse into the Future of AI-Powered Search

The SearchGPT prototype is an AI-powered search engine that provides answers with source citations. The interface emphasises quick search functionality compared to ChatGPT with web browsing. Currently, it's a provisional prototype for limited tester use. Its main purpose is to experiment with enhanced search features to integrate back into ChatGPT. Take a glimpse at its design below.

The significance here is OpenAI was rumoured to be developing a search product, and this clarifies the direction they're taking. At present, it resembles Perplexity with an improved layout and clear source attribution alongside responses. Note that this is more of a feature testbed than a complete product, not yet accessible to most.

OpenAI announced SearchGPT, an AI-powered search engine combining traditional search with a chat interface for more natural, conversational searches, enriched with images and videos for better understanding. 

Our take:

We are noticing that despite OpenAI’s impressive previews, the backlog of unreleased features and products is becoming a habit. Whilst releasing sub-par products can be detrimental, sitting on an unreleased product for too long can have a similar effect. We are now starting to see competitors such as Meta release new models (Lama-3.1, 405B) that are open-source, more efficient, inexpensive and still managing to compete with frontier models such as GPT-4o. OpenAI need to pull something out the bag and soon, maybe it's the Apple influence?

Another Big Thing

Stock Market Plummets Amid AI Profitability Doubts

Last Wednesday, the stock market saw its biggest drop since 2022 due to doubts about AI companies' profitability. Tech leaders are entangled in a high-stakes gamble on AI investment, with companies like Alphabet seeing considerable capital expenditures but not expecting returns until the mid-2020s.

Despite high spending and potential multi-billion losses by firms like OpenAI and Anthropic, CEOs maintain these risks are essential to stay competitive. The optimism around AI continues to buoy the tech industry, though there's concern about a possible market correction if expected profits don't soon materialise. (btw - This is not financial advice 😉)

What’s new: Tech

Meta Unveils Llama 3.1: A Game-Changer in Open-Source AI

Meta has unveiled Llama 3.1, their most sophisticated open-source AI model to date. The flagship variant, Llama 3.1 405B, boasts a staggering 405 billion parameters, positioning it as one of the most substantial AI models currently accessible. Whilst this is impressive, even more so is its ability to compete with GPT-4o despite it being 4.5x smaller in parameter size, meaning it is much more efficient to run.

We know lab benchmarks are the go-to for a quick assessment of model performance, but human evaluations are the most reliable as after all, humans are the primary users of these powerful technologies. Benchmarks and human evaluations indicate that Llama 3.1 405B surpasses GPT-4o in several domains, particularly in code execution and plot generation. However, it still lags in areas such as multilingual capabilities and general reasoning when compared to GPT-4o and Claude 3.5 Sonnet.

Meta advocates for open-source AI, arguing that it fosters innovation, collaboration, and transparency. By sharing AI advancements, Meta aims to accelerate technological progress and address challenges more effectively.

Our take:

Zuck’s redemption arc is something...Releasing such a powerful, efficient and most importantly open-source model is a pivotal moment in AI development. It vastly empowers researchers, developers and startups to innovate to new depths with greater customisation and affordability. There is however the slight concern around deploying such an advanced model to the masses with less regulation, and this is why Meta and the EU (and maybe soon the UK) have butt heads pausing deployment of the new model on this side of the Atlantic.

💙 Other project news we’re loving

AlphaProof AI Excels in Math Olympiad

DeepMind’s AlphaProof AI has solved four out of six International Math Olympiad problems, earning a hypothetical silver medal. This showcases AI's advancing abilities in complex, creative problem-solving beyond just replicating training data.

Apple Agrees to AI Safety Guidelines

Apple has agreed to AI safety guidelines set by the Biden administration. This move aims to ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies, prioritising safety and ethical considerations.

Big Names in Tech Collaborate on AI Security

Big names in tech like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI are teaming up to enhance AI security, focusing on privacy and robust safeguards. Meanwhile, the US, EU, and UK have issued a joint statement to promote fair competition in generative AI models, ensuring innovation and regulatory oversight.

Humanoid Robots Expected Next Year

Elon Musk's Tesla plans to deploy humanoid robots, named Optimus, next year. These robots aim to revolutionise automation in various industries. According to AI Tool Report, the Optimus robots will enhance productivity and efficiency, highlighting advancements in AI and robotics.

OpenAI's New Safety Approach with Rule-Based Rewards

OpenAI is implementing a new safety approach by using rule-based rewards to guide AI behaviour. This strategy aims to enhance the alignment of AI systems with human values and ensure safer, more reliable AI performance.

Musk’s Supercluster

Musk's xAI builds 2.5 exaflop supercomputer in Memphis. $6 billion project. The power draw raises environmental issues. 

Sam Altman Funds Study on Universal Basic Income

OpenAI founder Sam Altman has funded a study on Universal Basic Income in response to job market concerns. The study provided thousands with free money to explore the impacts on economic stability and individual well-being amid AI-driven job disruptions.

What’s new: Projects

New Survey Highlights AI Opportunities and Challenges in UK Construction

A recent survey by PBC Today highlights the transformative potential of AI in the UK construction sector. The study indicates that AI can significantly enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency in construction projects. Key findings reveal that AI-driven tools can optimise project planning, monitor safety in real time, and improve quality control through predictive analytics. However, the survey also underscores challenges such as the need for substantial investment in AI technologies, potential job displacement, and the requirement for upskilling the workforce to effectively utilise these advanced tools. Industry leaders’ express optimism about AI's ability to revolutionise the sector but emphasise the importance of addressing these hurdles to fully realise AI's benefits. The report concludes that a collaborative approach, combining industry expertise with technological innovation, is essential for navigating the path forward and maximising AI's impact on construction.

Our Take

For project managers and professionals in the construction industry, the integration of AI can lead to more efficient project delivery, enhanced safety protocols, and improved quality control. By leveraging AI, projects can be completed faster and with fewer errors, ultimately increasing productivity and profitability. However, it's crucial to invest in training and development to ensure the workforce can effectively use AI tools and to address potential job displacement issues. Embracing AI in project management can lead to more innovative and resilient construction practices.

💙 Other Tech news we’re loving

Global BIM Market Set to Triple

The global BIM market is projected to triple to $26.4 billion by 2034. This growth highlights increasing adoption of Building Information Modelling to enhance efficiency and collaboration in construction projects.

AI Helps Predict Droughts a Year in Advance

AI technology now predicts droughts up to a year in advance, providing valuable insights for water management and agricultural planning. This advancement enhances preparedness and mitigates the impacts of droughts on communities and economies.

5 Common Uses for AI in AEC

AI in AEC enhances design optimisation, project scheduling, risk management, quality control, and predictive maintenance. These applications improve efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness in architecture, engineering, and construction projects.

AI Reshaping Industries like Finance and Insurance

AI is reshaping industries such as finance and insurance by enhancing risk assessment, fraud detection, customer service, and operational efficiency. These advancements lead to more accurate predictions, streamlined processes, and improved customer experiences.

How Generative AI Could Change the Job of Real Estate Agents

Generative AI is set to transform the role of real estate agents by automating tasks such as property listings, client interactions, and market analysis. This technology aims to enhance efficiency, personalise customer experiences, and provide more accurate property evaluations.

What’s new: Productivity

Adobe Introduces New AI Tools

Adobe has launched new AI tools for Illustrator, enhancing creative capabilities and efficiency. These innovations enable designers to automate repetitive tasks, explore new creative frontiers, and improve overall productivity.

 The AI Slop Era

The New York Times explores the "AI Slop Era," highlighting concerns over AI-generated content flooding markets, leading to reduced quality and increased noise. This opinion piece urges critical evaluation of AI's impact on media and communication.

Figma Update Enhances Design Collaboration

Figma has released a retrospective on its latest updates, which focus on enhancing design collaboration and workflow efficiency. The improvements aim to streamline the design process and foster better teamwork among creative professionals.

New AI Tool for Construction Meetings

A new AI assistant has been launched to streamline construction meetings. This tool helps organise agendas, track action items, and improve communication, making project management more efficient and effective in the construction industry.

PDA Task Force Meet Up: London Project Data and Analytics Meetup

Join us for a provocative and lively London Project Data and Analytics Meetup led by Martin Paver, author of Next Generation Risk Management and CEO of Projecting Success. Martin will challenge the status quo by asserting that traditional risk management is on the brink of obsolescence and propose an alternative future shaped by variance analytics, leveraging advanced data analytics and AI.

In this session, Martin will outline:

• Why traditional risk management methods are becoming ineffective.

• What the future of risk management looks like with variance analytics at the helm.

• How to transition your projects and organisation to this forward-thinking approach.

Expect a dynamic and interactive discussion as Martin invites attendees to critique and shape this new paradigm. This is a rare opportunity to engage with a leading thinker in the field and to influence the future of risk management.

Be part of the revolution. Challenge the norms. Shape the future. Sign up now for this free event and enjoy complimentary beer and pizza!

Project Flux Podcast

Watch our latest podcast episodes 👇

🟠 In this episode of the Weekly Pulse, James and Yoshi delve into the UK government's approach to AI regulation, OpenAI's latest advancements, and AI's impact on industries like construction and data analysis. They stress the need for balancing innovation with regulation, setting standards, and considering the consequences of AI-driven automation. The discussion also covers the rise of affordable AI models and their potential to autonomously conduct research and provide insights. Tune in for an engaging conversation on the future of AI and its far-reaching implications.

How governments navigate AI is key to where we’ll see significant development in years to come. Check out latest podcast where we talk balancing innovation with regulation

Watch the latest episode of our weekly podcast 👇

Just One More Thing

Check out this touching video that uses AI to bring old and recent versions of celebrities together. It's a real tear-jerker, showcasing the emotional power of AI to blend the past and present, creating poignant moments that resonate deeply with viewers.

Meet Project Flux: About Us

At Project Flux, we're committed to pioneering the future of construction and project delivery through the lens of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence insights. Our vision is to be at the forefront of integrating AI into the fabric of project delivery, transforming how projects are conceptualised, planned, and executed.

Our Mission Project Flux aims to not only inform and educate but also to inspire professionals in the construction industry to embrace the transformative potential of AI. We believe in the power of AI to revolutionise project delivery, making it more efficient, predictive, and adaptable to the dynamic demands of the modern world.

What We Offer Through our insightful newsletters, podcasts and curated content on LinkedIn, and engaging discussions, Project Flux serves as a resource for professionals seeking to stay ahead in their field. We offer a blend of practical advice, thought leadership, and the latest developments in AI and construction technology.

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