How AI Mimics the Human Mind: A Deep Dive into Construction Claims Management

This article is written by Paul Njonga MBA MCIOB

Is it possible for AI to think like a human?

This question is more relevant than ever in the rapidly evolving world of construction claims management. AI is transforming how we approach complex tasks, but its ability to mimic the human mind is what truly sets it apart. Understanding this involves exploring how AI replicates three fundamental types of thinking: cognitive, affective, and conative. Each of these plays a crucial role in the way AI systems are applied to manage and resolve construction claims.

Cognitive Thinking: The Powerhouse of Problem Solving

Cognitive thinking is at the core of how humans process information, solve problems, and make decisions. In the realm of construction claims, cognitive thinking involves analysing vast amounts of data, recognising patterns, and drawing conclusions to support a claim. AI mimics this by using machine learning algorithms that process and analyse complex datasets at a speed and accuracy far beyond human capabilities.

For example, when reviewing a construction delay claim, an AI system can quickly analyse project schedules, weather data, and communication logs to identify patterns that suggest causation. It can cross-reference these findings with historical data to predict potential outcomes, providing a data-driven basis for decision-making. This cognitive process not only accelerates the claims management process but also enhances accuracy and objectivity.

Affective Thinking: Understanding Emotions and Intentions

While cognitive thinking is about logic and analysis, affective thinking deals with emotions, moods, and intentions. In construction claims, understanding the emotional and psychological aspects of stakeholders can be as important as the facts themselves. AI has begun to mimic this aspect of human thinking through sentiment analysis and natural language processing (NLP).

Consider a scenario where AI is tasked with analysing email exchanges between project managers and contractors. By employing sentiment analysis, the AI can detect frustration, urgency, or agreement in the tone of the communications. This insight allows claims managers to understand the underlying sentiments that might influence the negotiation or resolution of a claim. While AI doesn’t experience emotions, it can identify them in human interactions, providing a deeper context for decision-making.

Conative Thinking: The Drive to Act

Conative thinking refers to the will, drive, and motivation behind actions. In construction claims management, this type of thinking is crucial for navigating the various interests and goals of the involved parties. AI mimics conative thinking by predicting behaviours and optimising strategies to achieve desired outcomes.

For example, AI-driven tools can forecast the likely responses of a contractor when presented with a particular claim, based on historical behaviour and current context. By understanding these motivations, AI can suggest negotiation strategies that align with the contractor's goals, increasing the likelihood of a successful resolution. This predictive capability is especially valuable in complex claims where multiple parties have conflicting interests.

The Synergy of AI and Human Insight

While AI's ability to mimic cognitive, affective, and conative thinking is impressive, it's important to remember that it doesn't replace human expertise. Instead, AI enhances our capabilities, allowing claims managers to focus on higher-level strategic decisions. The synergy between AI and human insight is where the true potential lies. AI can process and analyse vast amounts of data, detect emotional cues, and predict behaviours, but human judgment is essential to interpret these findings and make informed decisions.

Key Takeaway

AI’s ability to mimic the human mind—through cognitive, affective, and conative thinking—marks a significant advancement in construction claims management. By enhancing data analysis, understanding emotions, and predicting behaviours, AI offers a powerful tool to navigate the complexities of construction claims. However, the real power of AI lies in its partnership with human expertise. Together, they create a dynamic approach to managing claims that is both efficient and deeply informed, leading to more successful outcomes in an industry where precision and insight are paramount.