One of the largest AI summits ever hosted in the global south took place in New Delhi a couple of weeks ago and I was intrigued by the discussions that took place.
As I read the reports on it, I was struck by the parallels between the story of the climate crisis and the AI boom. The realisation of the climate emergency reshaped global finance, and now the rise of AI is alerting politicians to new major economic risks. Vulnerable industries, such as India’s IT services sector, are already seeking significant external investment to give them short-term stability.
For years, there has been dialogue on how the world adapts and accommodates communities displaced by climate change. Could we face a similar story with AI? What will the impact of this technological transformation be on migration?
Or as reliance on AI grows, will all jobs still require some level of human supervision? UN Secretary General, António Guterres seems to think so. “We need guardrails that preserve human agency, human oversight and human accountability… We must invest in workers so AI augments human potential – not replaces it."
At RICS, we echo Mr Guterres’ sentiment. AI is undoubtedly changing our profession, how we work and what we do. We must continue to learn about its opportunities and safeguard against its risks.
Our industry is not immune to the changes that AI will unleash, and we must be ready to meet them. Previous areas of work that were profitable will cease to be so while new opportunities will arise that we must embrace. In confronting this challenge, I am heartened by the realisation that as surveyors we add value by using our professional judgment to navigate technical, complex and nuanced scenarios. We give meaning to measurement and so will still have a role to play, even if it is different from the one we now perform.
I am delighted to say that last month we opened expressions of interest for our new Data, Analytics and Intelligence (MRICS) pilot pathway. Designed for professionals working in data analysis, digital delivery, information management, or analytics roles where their work directly informs decisions in the built environment. The route is not intended to replace established RICS professional pathways but instead ensures the profession can meet growing demand for expertise in this area. I see it as a great sign of progress.
“Our industry is not immune to the changes that AI will unleash, and we must be ready to meet them” Nick Maclean FRICS, RICS President
Measure in all things
As I walk into RICS’ HQ in Parliament Square, I am reminded of our motto: Est Modus in Rebus. The phrase, which is written in the entrance, translates to ‘there is measure in all things’. Our work and profession span the globe, and our value in building a better future has never been more necessary.
On 9 March, our standard ‘Responsible use of artificial intelligence in surveying practice’ comes into effect – we must harness AI’s benefits to advance our profession. There will be challenges to navigate and we will need to adapt together.
Now is the time to continue to restore public trust and embolden our profession for good. Chartered surveyors are experts in adapting, building and charting a solid path forward.
Next week I’ll be at MIPIM, where I hope to meet many members and take the opportunity to discuss, and even debate, some of the thorny issues facing our profession. I am sure that AI will be the plat du jour across many rooms in Cannes.
If you want to hear more about the use of AI in surveying then you can listen to the recent episode #230 of the RICS podcast, Human in the loop. Chris Alder, RICS’ Senior Executive Officer, Standards and Regulation, together with Nella Pang MRICS and James Garner FRICS explore common misconceptions about AI, its potential to transform the sector, and the ethical issues that every surveyor should keep front of mind.
