Where AI is useful
AI can support a GC submittal workflow by helping teams:
- Identify the likely specification section and related drawing references
- Extract product data, model numbers, dimensions, ratings, materials, and certifications from a submitted package
- Locate relevant contract requirements in specifications, schedules, notes, and details
- Surface potential differences for human review
- Detect missing attachments or incomplete documentation
- Highlight possible substitutions, exceptions, or outdated drawing references
- Organize reviewer questions and open actions
- Compare resubmittals against prior comments and changes
See the full capabilities in AI construction submittal review software.
Where AI should not decide
AI should not issue final technical approvals, determine contract precedence, resolve design ambiguity, approve substitutions, or take responsibility for professional review. Qualified Project Engineers, Project Managers, architects, engineers, and other reviewers remain responsible for verifying evidence and issuing the disposition.
A better workflow for Project Engineers
Instead of opening multiple PDFs, searching terms manually, pasting notes into a log, and chasing a response through email, a Project Engineer can use DECK to create a clearer review path:
- Start with the submitted package and current revision.
- Pull in the relevant specifications, drawings, schedules, and changes.
- Review cited potential issues or missing requirements.
- Verify the evidence and choose the appropriate action.
- Assign the item, track the response, and retain the final decision context.
DECK connects submitted drawings, product data, and equipment packages to the governing specification and contract documents — helping PEs find the gaps between what was submitted and what the project requires.
DECK vs Procore submittal workflows
Procore's submittal module handles routing, approvals, and the submittal log. It is effective for tracking who has a package and what stage it is at. DECK adds a different layer: it helps the reviewer understand whether the submitted documents actually meet the project requirements. Procore tells you a submittal is pending review; DECK helps you review it with evidence.
The two tools are complementary, not competing. DECK's intelligence layer sits alongside Procore's workflow engine. Learn more about where DECK fits in the broader submittal management process.
DECK vs generic AI document tools
ChatGPT, Copilot, and other general-purpose AI tools can summarize a PDF or answer questions about a document. They are not built for construction review workflows. They lack source-aware requirements retrieval, cross-document comparison against specifications and drawings, issue classification, action assignment, and decision tracking. DECK is designed specifically for the construction submittal review-to-resolution cycle.
Why this matters
The value is not merely a faster review. It is fewer missed requirements, fewer unclear handoffs, better resubmittal coordination, and a project record that explains what happened and why.
See the full method in How to Review Shop Drawings Against Specifications, or read about the underlying product in AI Construction Submittal Review Software.