AI Document Classification

Document classification seems simple — identifying whether a file is a drawing, a specification, a submittal, or an RFI — but in practice it is complicated by inconsistent naming, mixed document types, and the sheer volume of files on a construction project. A single email might contain a cover letter, a submittal form, product data sheets, and test reports as one combined PDF.

AI document classification handles this by analyzing content rather than relying on file names or folder locations. It recognizes that a PDF with a title block, graphic content, and dimension annotations is a drawing. A PDF with CSI-formatted numbered paragraphs is a specification. A PDF with product performance data and manufacturer branding is a submittal. This content-based classification works even when files are poorly named or uploaded to the wrong folder.

The downstream value is that every other AI capability depends on knowing what type of document it is working with. Code compliance checking applies to drawings, not specifications. Submittal review compares submittals against specifications. RFI research searches across all document types. Accurate classification is the foundation that makes all of these workflows reliable.