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March 2026
digitalBAU (March 24-26, 2026) focuses on the use of artificial intelligence in the construction industry and showcases current developments for the planning, construction and operation of buildings.
The construction sector is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Challenges such as high construction costs, a shortage of skilled workers, and the resulting need to become significantly more efficient in the planning and construction phases are shaping the daily operations of the industry. At the same time... Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly developing into a central driver, to the "game changer", for the transformation to more efficient, sustainable and adaptive building.
digitalBAU therefore focuses on the main theme "Game-changer AI – Building for the future"focuses on AI technologies and shows how they can revolutionize the value chain. The term "Game-changer AI – Building for the future" describes that profound change which the The use of AI in all life cycle phases of a building, from planning and approval to execution, operation, conversion or even deconstruction, brings aboutAI technology supports this process through automation and optimization, enabling well-founded, data-driven decision-making in all construction processes. It is therefore considered a crucial key factor for greater efficiency, sustainability, and reduced resource consumption.
"The construction industry is largely supported by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We want to support them and introduce them to new approaches to building in the future. Digital construction process optimization and AI are essential tools that are reflected in our key themes and the supporting program," he emphasizes. Messe München-Managing Director Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer.
The global market for AI in construction is growing exponentially: According to current market analyses, the volume will be around four billion US dollars in 2024, but is projected to grow to over 22 billion US dollars by 2032. Initial studies confirm its enormous benefits. Companies that strategically use AI achieve significant productivity gains and can reduce planning times by up to 20 percent..
Operations management
Operations management
Operations management
Although their use in the German construction industry is still in its early stages according to the OECD report (2024), international markets are already showing the transition to automated and learning construction processes – which will also find application in the diversified German market.
AI connects planning, execution and operation into a fully digital and data-driven cycle.It fundamentally changes processes and value chains in the construction industry by being able to cover the entire life cycle of a building: In the planning phase, AI systems unfold their potential through generative design and design support for architects: They can develop numerous variants in a very short time, taking into account important parameters such as construction costs, load-bearing structure or CO₂ balance.
In addition, AI solutions enable Automated cost and risk analyses as well as precise building simulations for specialist planning.This significantly improves the basis for a joint and well-founded design decision. During construction, AI makes a valuable contribution to quality assurance, for example through the analysis and evaluation of image and sensor data. It monitors construction progress in real time and controls machine- or robot-assisted processes on the construction site.
Finally, in building operations Are AI solutions already supporting facility management today? In predictive maintenance, AI uses data from intelligent, networked building technology to optimize energy and resource use. This benefit extends far beyond operation, impacting renovations or even deconstruction at the end of a building's life cycle.
digitalBAU 2026 will showcase the latest AI applications driving the transformation of the construction industry. Furthermore, the trade fair will demonstrate… how small and medium-sized enterprises can use AI technologies effectively to secure their competitiveness and develop new business models.
With this central theme, digitalBAU 2026 focuses on a resilient construction industry, how Senior Director Cornelia Lutz He explains: "AI is not just a tool, but a enabler for a more sustainable and efficient future of construction. digitalBAU is the place where this vision becomes tangible and where the construction industry can build the skills it needs for change and a successful future."
Visitors have the opportunity to learn about AI tools from numerous exhibitors. RIB shows with "RIB 4.0"a cloud-based platform that Costing, purchasing, business partner and document management and other central construction processes are bundled in an integrated environment.The solution enables seamless digital workflows throughout the construction process and supports project teams in planning and control – even across multiple projects. Integrated AI functions help to better utilize data and make decisions faster, more informed, and more transparently.
The Nemetschek Group It is expanding its AI strategy for 2026 around three key areas. These include agent-based assistance functions and automated processes, which are to be integrated into the brands' products via the group-wide AI platform. Among other things, it provides Bluebeam With "Bluebeam Max" one introduces a new generation of AI-supported functions that digitally support audits, plan comparisons, and communication processes.Automated tools for review, measurement and coordination are intended to make errors detectable earlier and simplify workflows between the office and the construction site. Nevaris showcases new AI-powered features that support daily work in construction project management.
Quote"AI is not just a tool, but a enabler for a more sustainable and efficient future of construction." Cornelia Lutz, Senior Director digitalBAU
A cross-product AI assistant helps with tasks such as cost calculations and photo documentation, thereby accelerating processes and increasing efficiency in construction project management. The AI assistant and the AI visualizer from Vectorworks together Planning becomes smarter and more efficient, as it can be seamlessly integrated into everyday work.Automate routine tasks and support individual working methods through adaptive AI.
At digitalBAU 2026, visitors can immerse themselves in the Forums Main Stage, Exhibitor Stage, Neo Stage and Start-Up Stage Look forward to numerous high-caliber presentations and discussions addressing the use of artificial intelligence, its ethical implications, and the steps for its safe implementation in SMEs. The program has been available on the website since January 2026. digitalBAU are available to support you.
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