DeepSeek-R1, Stargate, and AI Operator: The Future of Workflows

This Week in Project Flux

1. DeepSeek-R1: The Powerful AI you Should be Using

2. AGI’s Demotion? A Review of Sam Altman’s AI Timeline

3. Presented by Cogram

4. Stargate Project: Trump’s $500B AI Infrastructure Gamble

5. OpenAI’s Operator: The Autonomous AI Changing How We Work

6. Podcasts of the Week

7. Anthropic CEO Warns: AI Could Surpass Human Abilities Sooner Than We Think

8. Giveaway

9. Meet Project Flux: About Us

This Week’s BIG thing

DeepSeek-R1: The Powerful AI you Should be Using

China has disrupted the AI landscape with the release of DeepSeek-R1, a groundbreaking LLM that rivals OpenAI’s models in capability but is 27x cheaper, open-source, smaller, and faster to develop. Here’s what you need to know:

What is DeepSeek-R1?

DeepSeek-R1 is an advanced AI model that competes with ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. It uses a unique ‘Mixture-of-Experts’ approach, activating different parts of its "brain" for specific tasks, making it cost-efficient and highly adaptable. It reflects deeply, adapts continuously, and even applies its own form of metacognition—learning and problem-solving like a thoughtful human mind.

Unlike older models, R1 doesn’t just process inputs; it seeks meaning behind user prompts, tailoring its responses with remarkable contextual awareness. This makes interacting with it feel more personal, engaging, and predictive—ushering in a new generation of AI that reasons and thinks.

Why It Feels Like the Future of AI

DeepSeek-R1’s blend of reasoning, curiosity, and adaptability represents a leap from implementation-focused models like GPT-4 to intelligence that mirrors human thought. It considers the why behind tasks, making it an ideal partner for project professionals and planners.

With its open-source nature and compact design, R1 empowers users to customise its capabilities while keeping data secure, redefining how projects are planned and managed.

A Must for Project Professionals

Planning is the essence of a project, and this an expert planner. At its core, it’s all about enhancing your approach to planning—helping you understand the “why” behind your project’s structure by reasoning through its tasks, context, and methods. It’s not just a tool; it’s a partner that helps you learn more about how you manage projects while improving your strategies along the way. Since it’s open-source, you can customise it to fit your unique needs, making it as adaptable as your projects demand. What’s more, its compact size means you can run it locally, giving you tighter control over your data and keeping your project information secure. With these new reasoning models, you’re not just managing projects—you’re redefining how they’re done.

Read the full story

Read our full take here - where we detail the key aspects of this powerful reasoning model alongside what you need to look out for to get ahead of the curve.

The Rabbit hole

• DeepSeek R1 is a side project?!

• Make the model even more powerful with including XML tags in your prompts

• Use R1 within agent workflows

• Build DeepSeek’s Reasoning into other LLM’s

• PsyOp claims

• Read the official research paper

• R1 has an existential crisis?

What’s new: Tech

AGI’s Demotion? A Review of Sam Altman’s AI Timeline

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently downplayed claims of AGI, urging caution amidst escalating hype. While his stance appears more measured than before, it reflects a subtle evolution in his perspective rather than a reversal. Altman has consistently projected AGI to emerge in “a few thousand days,” yet the criteria for recognising AGI have shifted over time. Let’s unpack this journey.

Key Moments in Sam Altman’s AGI Timeline

2015: Founding OpenAI with a Mission
Sam co-founded OpenAI, describing superhuman machine intelligence as “the greatest threat to humanity’s existence.” From the outset, OpenAI’s mission was clear: AGI should benefit all of humanity.

2019: Predictions with a Gradual Lens
Altman predicted AGI would “feel within reach” by 2025 but anticipated a blurry, incremental arrival rather than a sudden breakthrough. His foresight hinted at shorter timelines but a less dramatic transition.

2023: Framing AGI vs ASI
Altman distinguished AGI as a scientific challenge and superintelligence (ASI) as an engineering problem. He advocated for safety regulations of advanced AI models while protecting smaller players, proposing global collaboration and democratic governance as keys to navigating AGI’s future.

2024: A Shift in Definition
OpenAI announced a clear roadmap for AGI, with Altman predicting its arrival sooner than expected. However, he suggested AGI might be less societally disruptive than initially thought. His definition of AGI evolved to align with ASI—AI systems smarter than humans—hinting at AGI’s closer proximity and a potential reclassification.

2025: Financial Metrics Take Centre Stage
OpenAI now associates AGI with profitability, targeting $100 billion in revenue as a milestone. This marks a departure from purely technical definitions, reflecting OpenAI’s shift to a for-profit model. Altman cautioned against runaway hype but reiterated AGI’s transformative potential, predicting AI agents entering the workforce this year.

Read the full story

Get the full story, where we dive into the detail and connotations of Sam’s viewpoints here

The Key Takeaway

Altman’s evolving perspective illustrates how AGI remains a fluid concept, shaped by technological, societal, and financial contexts. Instead of rigid definitions, AGI is better understood as a continuum of advancing machine intelligence that mirrors—and surpasses—human capabilities.

Financial metrics may seem like a detour from AGI’s philosophical roots, but they underscore the immense cost of sustaining cutting-edge AI. With definitions and expectations shifting as fast as the technology evolves, we may have a new benchmark for AGI next week. Cheers, Sam!

💙 Other tech news we’re loving

AI Trends & Innovations Shaping the Future

• _{MidJourney V7 Incoming - MidJourney has teased its Version 7 release, scheduled for February, promising more advanced AI-driven artistry. Don’t miss the details in this announcement.}

• _{LinkedIn Faces Lawsuit Over Data Use - LinkedIn is under fire as premium users sue over alleged misuse of private messages to train AI models. Read more on BBC.}

• _{Unitree’s G1 Robot Revolution - Unitree Robotics upgrades its humanoid G1 robot, boasting smoother running and walking capabilities—paving the way for advanced robotics.}

• _{Apple Upgrades macOS Mail with AI - Apple plans to enhance macOS Mail with new AI-powered features, making email management smarter. Check out the update on The Verge.}

• _{OpenAI Targets Longevity with GPT-4b Micro - OpenAI’s GPT-4b Micro aims to extend human lifespan by 10 years, focusing on breakthroughs in biological research. Learn more on TechCrunch.}

• _{AGI Just 3-5 Years Away? - Google DeepMind CEO predicts Artificial General Intelligence capable of creating scientific hypotheses could arrive by 2030. Dive deeper on Reddit.}

• _{Meta’s $65 Billion AI Push - Meta plans to spend $65 billion on AI advancements, underscoring its commitment to reshaping the tech landscape. Learn more.}

• _{Apple Scrambles to Fix Siri Issues - Apple reshuffles its executive team to resolve challenges in its AI initiative, Apple Intelligence. Find out more on MacRumors.}

• _{UK Launches Digital Wallet - The UK government announces a digital wallet for IDs and driver’s licences, revolutionising document management. Read the full story on MacRumors.}

Presented by Cogram

Cogram is an AI assistant specifically designed for AEC to help professionals save time on documentation and prevent disputes. 

• Automated meeting minutes: Cogram drafts meeting minutes directly in your company’s template with tailored levels of detail, format, and style.

• Works for virtual and in-person meetings: Cogram works across Zoom, Teams, and in-person meetings, such as site inspections and kick-off meetings. 

• Field reports in minutes: Cogram’s mobile app combines site photos with minutes from on-site discussions to draft field reports in minutes.

• Project-wide insights: Ask questions about your projects and get answers drawn from every relevant meeting and email chain from that project for the most up-to-date information. 

Learn more and schedule a 15-live demo of Cogram.

What’s new: Projects

Stargate Project: Trump’s $500B AI Infrastructure Gamble

In a dramatic first move as president, Donald Trump unveiled the Stargate Project, a $500 billion joint venture led by OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank, and tech giants like Microsoft and NVIDIA. This initiative aims to create the largest AI infrastructure in history, starting with a massive network of data centres across the US. Learn more from OpenAI’s official announcement and this detailed PM Global analysis.

What Does This Mean for Me?

For professionals in construction, energy, real estate, and project-driven sectors, Stargate represents transformative opportunities:

• Infrastructure Boom: Massive investment in AI-focused data centres creates high demand for construction and engineering services.

• Job Creation: Stargate will fuel employment opportunities across sectors, from project management to renewable energy specialists.

• Tech and Energy Innovations: Advanced AI infrastructure could drive new partnerships in sustainable energy to power these centres efficiently.

• Faster AI Adoption: Access to state-of-the-art facilities will enable businesses to integrate advanced AI into workflows, enhancing project delivery.

This unprecedented initiative positions the US as a global leader in AI while providing countless opportunities for industry professionals to contribute to and benefit from its success.

Key Themes or Details

• $500B Investment: Stargate plans to develop a vast AI infrastructure across the US over four years.

• Partnerships: Involves OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank, Microsoft, NVIDIA, and others.

• Strategic Expansion: The first data centres are under construction in Texas, with plans to expand nationwide.

• Emergency Declarations: Trump intends to accelerate progress using emergency measures, ensuring rapid deployment.

• Competitive Edge: The project aims to secure the US’s position as a global leader in AI, countering competition from China.

Down the Rabbit Hole

• OpenAI’s Full Announcement: Stargate Project Overview

• Industry Insight: PM Global’s Analysis

• Related Story: Trump’s AI Safety Executive Order Revocation

Stargate is more than just infrastructure—it’s a bold statement about AI’s future and the power of strategic investment.

💙 Other Project news we’re loving

• _{Google DeepMind Builds “World Models” - Google DeepMind’s new team, led by Tim Brooks, aims to create AI “world models” to simulate physical environments for robotics and gaming. Read more on The Verge.}

• _{Meta Backs Databricks in $10B Round - Meta has joined Databricks’ $10 billion funding round as a strategic partner, signalling its commitment to advanced data analytics. Details on TechCrunch.}

• _{Trump Scraps Biden’s AI Safety Plan - President Trump revoked Biden’s 2023 AI Executive Order on safety standards, prioritising rapid development to secure an AI edge. Explore the impact on The Decoder.}

• _{3D Printing Revolutionises Construction in Germany - The German Red Cross is building its headquarters using 3D printing, marking Germany’s first non-residential structure created with this technology. Discover more on ABB News.}

What’s new: Productivity

OpenAI’s Operator: The Autonomous AI Changing How We Work

OpenAI has unveiled Operator, its groundbreaking AI agent designed to autonomously complete multi-step tasks by controlling a web browser. From booking appointments to complex research, Operator brings the promise of independent task management to a whole new level. Learn more in OpenAI’s official announcement and this detailed TechCrunch report.

What Does This Mean for Me?

For professionals in project-driven industries, Operator could revolutionise workflows:

• Enhanced Productivity: Tedious multi-step tasks—like pulling together project bids or researching materials—can now be fully automated.

• Seamless Collaboration: With AI agents capable of managing tasks across apps and websites, team members can focus on strategy rather than admin.

• Competitive Advantage: Early adopters of Operator could leap ahead by delivering faster, more precise results for clients and stakeholders.

Whether it’s tracking supply chains, gathering regulatory insights, or scheduling project updates, Operator can free up valuable time for higher-level decision-making.

Key Themes or Details

• Autonomy: Operator works without human oversight, mimicking how users interact with a browser to achieve goals.

• Use Cases: Tasks range from booking travel and compiling research to automating repetitive workflows in complex industries.

• Customisation: Businesses can tailor Operator’s functions to meet unique project delivery needs.

• Privacy Controls: Operator is designed with robust safeguards to ensure data security during automated tasks.

Down the Rabbit Hole

• OpenAI’s Full Announcement: Introducing Operator

• TechCrunch Coverage: AI Agent Autonomy

• Demonstration Video: Operator in Action

• Our own blog on the subject

Operator signals a turning point in AI integration, enabling industries to simplify workflows, enhance decision-making, and achieve more—faster.

💙 Other productivity news we’re loving

• _{Taxi Driver Writer Stunned by ChatGPT - Paul Schrader, the writer of Taxi Driver, was amazed by ChatGPT’s creative output, likening its talent to top filmmakers. Read his thoughts on IndieWire.}

• _{Canvas Builds Apps in Real Time - Canvas AI now lets users create apps in real time, marking a major leap in low-code AI development. See the announcement here.}

• _{Perplexity’s AI Assistant Can “See” Screens - Perplexity has launched a groundbreaking assistant for Android that can perform tasks and “see” your screen. More on TechCrunch.}

• _{Anthropic Adds Citations to Claude AI - Anthropic’s new Citations API references exact source passages for responses, empowering developers with greater transparency. Read more on Anthropic News.}

• _{Alphabet Updates Gemini with “Flash Thinking” - Gemini 2.0 now explains its reasoning, mirroring OpenAI’s reasoning model, pushing AI clarity forward.}

• _{Teens Turn to ChatGPT for Schoolwork - A majority of teens are using ChatGPT to complete school assignments, raising debates about AI’s role in education. Explore this trend on NPR.}

• _{AI Adoption Still Slow for Businesses - Only 25.1% of businesses have AI in production, revealing significant hurdles in enterprise-level adoption. Read the full report on Vellum AI.}

• _{Microsoft Unleashes Multi-Agent AI Teams - Microsoft’s AutoGen now allows multiple AI agents to collaborate on tasks, enhancing enterprise AI efficiency. Full story on VentureBeat.}
  

AI adoption is growing fast, but opinions on its impact on jobs are divided globally. A recent Ipsos survey across 33 countries reveals contrasting views on whether AI will create more jobs than it replaces.

Podcasts of the Week

Can AI Deliver Sustainable Project Value?

In this insightful podcast, Lloyd Skinner and Professor Maltzman discuss how AI can revolutionise project delivery by enhancing sustainability, reducing waste, and driving long-term value. Explore how predictive analytics and intelligent decision-making can reshape industries. Listen now on LinkedIn.

The Role of Professional Scepticism in AI

Andrew Knight unpacks the importance of professional scepticism in the age of AI, exploring its role in ethical decision-making and project management. A must-listen for professionals navigating AI-driven industries. Tune in on LinkedIn.

Podcast: Revolutionising Construction with AI – Alastair Blenkin

In this episode, Alastair Blenkin, CEO of ProcurePro, explores how AI is transforming construction workflows, streamlining procurement, and enhancing project delivery. Learn about overcoming resistance to technology and leveraging data-driven insights. Listen now by clicking link below

Anthropic CEO Warns: AI Could Surpass Human Abilities Sooner Than We Think

Giveaway

The Astute User’s Guide to AI: Practical Steps for Responsible Implementation

📖 Overview:

AI is reshaping industries, but using it effectively and ethically requires strategic thinking. This guide, developed by the Alan Turing Institute, is tailored for professionals providing actionable advice for making informed decisions about AI implementation.

🔎 What’s Inside:

✅ Key Questions to Ask: Ensure AI aligns with your goals.

✅ Avoid Common Pitfalls: Identify risks before they derail projects.

✅ Ethical & Regulatory Insights: Navigate AI’s evolving landscape responsibly.

✅ Real-World Examples: See how AI is transforming industries like yours.

📢 Download Now:

Access this expertly crafted resource by the Alan Turing Institute to deploy AI with confidence and clarity. Click here to download the full guide and share with your team to drive smarter, more responsible AI decisions.

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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