How AI Transformed a Global Design Firm A 9-Step Blueprint for AEC Professionals

Stjepan Mikulic will be a keynote speaker at [AEC] Launch the premier tech event empowering AEC professionals to lead in innovation and master next-gen tools. As digital solutions and AI reshape the AEC sector, events like this are critical. The inaugural edition will take place in Paris on November 17, 2025, and is 100% free for AEC practitioners

The $4.5 Million AI Revolution: A Case Study

A multinational interior design firm (let’s call it “Designers Inc.”) saved $4.5 million annually by implementing an AI-driven workflow across its 250-person team. With offices worldwide, the firm followed my 9-step roadmap a replicable strategy for any AEC company aiming to harness AI effectively.

The Catalyst for Change

The CEO returned from tech conferences in early 2024 frustrated by vague answers to investors’ questions about AI adoption. The IT director was tasked with rapid AI integration but soon faced analysis paralysis overwhelmed by endless tools and uncertainties.

A breakthrough came when the IT director enrolled in my AI in AEC masterclass, covering 150+ real-world use cases and advanced implementation frameworks. Recognizing the need for expert guidance (unlike firms that assume they can DIY AI), Designers Inc. invited me to their Dubai HQ for an “AI Implementation Week.”

The Reality Check: Challenges Uncovered

Upon arrival, I identified key hurdles:

1. No one-size-fits-all AI solution Teams designing retail, hospitality, and hotels needed tailored tools.
2. Fear of displacement Employees worried AI would replace jobs.
3. Tool overloa The company lacked a strategy to filter viable AI options.

The 9-Step Transformation Framework

1. AI Literacy Workshops
   Short, engaging sessions demystified AI, showcasing time-saving examples. The CEO led by example, learning alongside staff.
2. Tech Stack Audit
   We mapped existing tools and identified inefficiencies (e.g., redundant software licenses).
3. Process Mapping
   Every workflow was visualized to pinpoint where AI could augment—not complicate—tasks.
4. Pain Point Prioritization
   We targeted high-friction tasks (e.g., PDF markups, QA checks) and enlisted “AI champions” to pilot solutions.
5. Tool Testing & Evaluation
   Teams trialed AI apps, shifting mindsets from “How do I finish this?” to “How can AI handle 80% of this?”
6. AI Integration Plan
   Successful tools were scaled company-wide, automating tasks like feedback transcription (saving 450 hours/employee/year).
7. ROI Analysis
   Metrics tracked:

• Time saved: 10 hours/employee/week × 100 employees = $4.5M/year (at $100/hour rates).
• Software costs vs. labor savings: AI subscriptions outweighed by reduced overtime/new hires.

1. Tech Stack Upgrade
   A centralized AI knowledge hub ensured cross-team adoption.
2. Continuous Digital Upskilling
   Regular training maintained momentum, embedding AI into the company’s DNA.

Your First Step Starts Now

Excuses like “We’re too small/busy/non-technical” won’t hold. Success hinges on:

• Asking: Which tasks drain creativity?
• Starting small: Pilot one AI tool (e.g., ChatGPT for drafting).
• Measuring impact: Track time savings and morale boosts.

AI isn’t about replacing people—it’s about reclaiming time for meaningful work.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

Stjepan Mikulic’s case study demonstrates how AI can revolutionize AEC workflows, emphasizing education, phased implementation, and ROI tracking. While the 9-step framework is robust, smaller firms might struggle with resource allocation for such structured rollouts. The piece could address scalable adaptations for boutique studios or solo practitioners. That said, its strength lies in debunking AI myths—proving that strategic adoption enhances creativity rather than threatening jobs. The tangible $4.5M savings and emphasis on cultural buy-in offer a compelling blueprint for firms hesitant to take the first step.

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