Building “AI for Construction Compliance” (Struck Co-Founder Story)

In this conversation, Nikhil Nagaraj, co-founder of Struck, shares his journey from studying electronics engineering in India to building an AI-driven platform for construction compliance.He discusses the challenges of the construction industry, particularly the housing crisis, and how Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI. Nikhil elaborates on the product's features, including its ability to provide real-time compliance checks and generate reports, while also offering insights into navigating the AEC industry for those without a background in it.

Takeaways
Nikhil's journey into AI began during his undergraduate studies in electronics engineering.
The launch of Struck was driven by a desire to address the housing crisis and improve construction compliance.
Compliance in construction is often treated as an afterthought, leading to inefficiencies.
Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI, making regulations more accessible.
The product has evolved to include features like zoning laws and permit-free building checks.
Prioritization in product development is crucial, focusing on compliance-related features.
The AEC industry is fragmented, requiring tailored solutions for different regions.
Collaboration with industry experts is essential for building effective solutions.
Good software engineering practices are vital for successful AI implementation.
Building in the AEC space can be challenging but rewarding, with many willing to help.

Chapters

00:00 Nikhil Nagaraj's Journey into AI and Construction
07:27 The Challenges of Prioritization in Tech Development
09:25 Overcoming Technical Challenges in AI
17:06 Exploring Struck's Product and Its Functionality
24:36 Navigating Building Regulations and Workflows
27:20 Creating a Frictionless User Experience
29:42 Leveraging AI and Data Sources
32:33 Bridging B2B and B2G in Construction Compliance
36:00 Advice for Non-AEC Professionals
39:45 Final Thoughts on Building in AEC

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