
How AI is Revolutionizing Documentation in Restoration
The days of flipping through thick yellow binders filled with carbon copies are fading into memory. Mitch Byrom, founder of Restoration-OS, reflects on a time when “contractors knew how to do construction and restoration, and adjusters knew how to assess damage.” Fast forward to today, and the dynamics of the restoration industry have shifted dramatically, largely influenced by artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
What AI Means for the Restoration Industry
Previously viewed as a far-off trend, AI is now a tangible force driving innovation within the industry. Embedded in our smartphones and various software, AI helps professionals assess damages, draft estimates, and even review detailed scopes of work. By automating many labor-intensive tasks, AI allows restoration professionals to focus on what they do best: restoring properties and serving clients efficiently.
From Manual Processes to Automated Solutions
Byrom emphasizes how the industry has traditionally relied on software like Xactimate for creating property damage estimates. Originally, pricing was inputted via floppy disks, a far cry from today’s powerful algorithms capable of analyzing data with incredible speed and accuracy. The shift to standardized systems wasn’t merely about preference; it came from insurance carriers’ desire for uniformity in pricing and efficiency.
AI takes this further by learning from past data. “AI is when the system learns,” Byrom notes, explaining that it’s more than just a tool—it acts as an assistant, estimater, and even an auditor. For instance, incorrect measurements can significantly affect the calculations for dehumidification, antimicrobial treatments, and labor costs. However, today’s smartphones are equipped with cameras and LiDAR technology, enabling more accurate measurements, ultimately reducing costly mistakes.
Practical Insights and Tools for the Future
So, what can restoration professionals expect moving forward? AI will continue to enhance accuracy and possibly even shift how claims are processed. By staying abreast of technological advancements and integrating AI tools into daily operations, contractors can leverage these innovations to optimize workflows and enhance client satisfaction.
With wonderful tools available right at our fingertips, like the LiDAR scanner embedded in newer smartphones, the restoration industry is set for a transformative leap. Contractors have no choice but to understand and embrace this technological evolution.
Join the AI Revolution
To keep pace with industry changes, restoration professionals should actively seek out training and certification opportunities related to AI and technology advancements. Embracing these changes can usher in a new era of efficiency and client satisfaction, allowing businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.
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