When should you be using AI Reasoning Models in your projects?

In the world of project delivery, the careful planning of each stage—from the project proposals to design—is paramount. It is in these early stages that the seeds of success, or potential pitfalls leading to cost and schedule overruns, are sown. In this blog I explore how reasoning models can transform your approach to project planning, offering a level of traceability and structured thought that traditional models may struggle to match.

Beyond the Surface: The Depth of Reasoning Models

Since the advent of ChatGPT, Traditional language models such as GPT‑4o have long been the workhorses of our digital conversations. Their ability to generate fluid, creative content in an instant is undeniably impressive. However, when it comes to tasks that require a deep, systematic exploration of ideas—such as detailed project proposals and project design—their implicit, statistical reasoning can feel empty and generic.

Welcome Reasoning models. These thinking models are the new wave of genAI capability which will succeed the models we’ve known and loved for the past couple years. OpenAI just recently announced that GPT-4.5 will be their last non-reasoning model, signalling an evolution in capability. Reasoning models operate with a transparency that is crucial for decision-makers. They articulate a step‐by‐step process, laying out the chain of thought that leads to each conclusion. While the primary reason for imbuing chain-of-thought was to unlock stronger intelligence, the ability to see the model thinking, is in itself extremely valuable when justifying decisions on projects. What’s more, reasoning models now run with greater efficiency meaning they no longer come as a premium. This makes them a must-have tool in your project inventory.

The Project Proposal: Laying a Firm Foundation

Imagine the process of drafting a project proposal as constructing a building. Every brick (or decision) must be meticulously placed, with a clear blueprint to guide the assembly. A reasoning model provides that blueprint. It allows you to map out assumptions, forecast potential returns, and pinpoint risks with a precision. This structured approach ensures that every component of the case is not only well-considered but also easily auditable—a reassurance for all parties.

Designing for Complexity: When Traceability Matters

Project design often involves navigating a labyrinth of interdependent decisions. In such a complex landscape, understanding how one choice impacts another can be the difference between a coherent plan and a series of unforeseen complications. Reasoning models shine here, offering a systematic view that captures the intricate interplay between various project elements. This approach is like holding a mirror up to your strategy, revealing the hidden connections that could either fortify your plan or become the weak links in your chain.

Resource Allocation and Decision Justification

No project thrives without the efficient allocation of resources. Yet, the process of deciding where and how to deploy these resources is rarely straightforward. Traditional models may offer rapid responses, but they often lack the detailed narrative required to justify each decision. In contrast, reasoning models break down the rationale behind every allocation, enabling project managers to see the ‘why’ behind the ‘what’. This is particularly important when you must communicate your strategy to stakeholders who demand transparency and accountability in every step of the process.

Scenario Planning: Preparing for the ‘What Ifs’

With how dynamic projects are, the ability to model scenarios is a necessity. Reasoning models excel in exploring multiple pathways, helping you prepare contingency plans that can adapt to shifting circumstances. Whether it’s a sudden market change or an unforeseen internal challenge, having a structured approach to scenario planning means you’re never caught off guard. It reinforces the notion that thoughtful, deliberate planning can be your strongest defence against the unpredictability inherent in any ambitious project.

The Journey or the Destination?

Ultimately, the choice between traditional language models and reasoning models reflects a broader philosophical question: How do we value the journey as much as the destination? In project delivery, where every decision carries weight, a systemic approach to planning ensures that each step is both deliberate and interconnected. It reminds us that technology, much like any other tool, should serve not just to automate tasks but to elevate our capacity for thoughtful, reflective decision-making.

As we integrate these sophisticated tools into our workflows, let us remember that the true art of project delivery lies in our ability to balance creativity with rigour, innovation with accountability. By embracing reasoning models where planning and traceability are paramount, we pave the way for projects that are not only successful but also resilient in the face of an ever-evolving landscape.

In a world where the complexity of our projects mirrors the intricacies of our thought, the call to plan meticulously—and to articulate that planning clearly—remains as relevant as ever. Let this be an invitation to delve deeper into our processes, to question, to refine, and ultimately, to deliver projects that stand the test of both time and scrutiny.