BST Global Releases 2026 Report Examining AI’s Impact on the AEC Industry

TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BST Global, the leading provider of AI-powered project intelligence^™ solutions for the AEC industry, released its “AI + Data Insights 2026: Global AEC Industry Report” on May 4. The report leverages insights from BST Global’s second annual AI + Data Survey to examine how architecture, engineering and environmental consulting firms are engaging with AI technology. The survey, which collected responses from technology leaders at AEC firms around the world, was conducted in conjunction with BST Global’s AI + Data Consortium and ACEC’s Technology Committee.

This year’s report provides a perspective on the current state and future impact of AEC-specific advancements in AI, examining current adoption levels, year-over-year shifts in firms’ readiness and use, benefits and challenges of application, expected workforce impact and more. The report also highlights some differences in the level of engagement between large firms and small or medium firms.

In analyzing the survey data, BST Global identified five overarching themes that encompass the industry’s sentiments, preparedness and strategy regarding AI technology:

01.	AI Adoption & Usage: Despite broadly acknowledging its importance, only 22% of the firms surveyed feel highly prepared for AI integration, revealing the industry’s limited readiness to integrate AI.
02.	Evolving AI Technology: As advanced AI tools like GenAI, autonomous AI agents and predictive analytics continue to evolve, AEC firms face the ongoing challenge of determining if, when and how to access and apply them.
03.	AI Strategy & Business Focus: While major transformation requires strategic alignment, only 38% of respondents feel their firms are applying AI efforts appropriately to support their business goals.
04.	AI Risks & Challenges: Data accuracy and security remain the top GenAI-related risks firms are working to mitigate, although their overall concern has diminished in the past year.
05.	AI Outcomes & Workforce Impact: Though 85% of respondents do not anticipate AI technology replacing employees or roles, firms must continually combat fear and resistance from employees.

“AI is no longer a future concept for the AEC industry. It is already reshaping how firms operate, compete and deliver value,” said Eileen M. Canady, Chief Marketing Officer at BST Global. “This year’s report makes it clear that success with AI is less about experimentation and more about intentional strategy, trusted data and organizational readiness. Our goal with this research is to help firms cut through the noise and focus on practical, high‑value applications that drive real business outcomes.”

The “AI + Data Insights 2026: Global AEC Industry Report” also provides recommendations to help firms overcome common AI-related challenges and achieve high-value results. With a foreword by ACEC Technology Committee Chair Dave Mullholland, the report also features industry-focused expertise from AI + Data Consortium members like Arup’s Global Chief Data Officer, Tembi Hommes, who noted, “This space is evolving. Let it evolve. Automate everything you can. Automating the ways of working is table stakes. It is not an option. Companies that can do that will become more agile. They can pivot faster.”

BST Global intends this report to serve as a resource for firms working to become the data-driven superconsultancies of the future. The report is available to download for free, and BST Global will conduct its 2027 AI + Data Survey later this year.

BST GLOBAL

BST Global designs, develops and deploys the AEC industry’s first suite of AI-powered project intelligence^™ solutions. Beyond our flagship ERP offering, we provide work management, predictive insights and resource management solutions to complement a firm’s existing ERP. More than 120,000 architects, engineers and consultants in 65 countries across six continents rely on BST Global’s solutions each day to successfully manage their projects, resources, finances and client relationships. With unrivaled industry knowledge, BST Global serves as a trusted partner to its loyal clients and remains at the forefront of innovation. For more information, visit www.BSTGlobal.com.