How AI fits into a contractor’s tech stack

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Contractors can use artificial intelligence to strengthen existing technology, analyze business data and improve productivity while maintaining careful oversight. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is moving quickly, but contractors do not need to overhaul their entire technology stack to begin exploring its potential. In this CoatingsTalk webinar hosted by Megan Ellsworth, Dataforma founder and CEO Mark Zeleznik discussed how contractors can use AI alongside existing software, data and business processes. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for established systems, he encouraged contractors to consider how it can help their teams accomplish more. Mark explained, “I really believe that proper AI usage is an enhancement to your existing team and will allow contractors to do more with the people that they have and do a better job.” 

One of the strongest opportunities is data analysis. AI can help contractors bring information from multiple sources together, identify useful insights and better understand what is happening across their businesses. Estimating, reporting, proposal development and everyday document work can also provide practical opportunities to experiment. 

That experimentation still requires oversight. Because AI-generated information is not always reliable, contractors need to review its output before using it in important business decisions or processes. Mark cautioned, “Always keep in the back of your mind a little bit of doubt, and ask, ‘Is that true?’” That approach becomes especially important when AI is applied to processes with little tolerance for error. 

Contractors evaluating software for future AI capabilities can also look for well-defined application programming interfaces (APIs), Model Context Protocol (MCP) server capabilities, embedded AI tools and systems designed to scale. Clean, securely stored data remains essential because AI can help interpret information, but dependable software and organized data still provide the foundation for repeatable business processes. 

For contractors unsure where to begin, Mark encouraged a measured approach, advising, “You take baby steps.” Starting with a low-risk challenge gives teams an opportunity to learn what AI can do, understand its limitations and determine where it can provide meaningful value. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how contractors can responsibly integrate AI into their existing technology stack!