Recap: 2024 NASLEF Conference | Tech-Tonic Shifts: Innovation via Transformation in AI & Automation

A week ago, our Principal Advisor, Anne Hollander, had the privilege of speaking at NASLEF, sharing the stage with industry leaders and change-makers focused in affordable housing. The session, titled Tech-Tonic Shifts: Transformation via Innovation, was all about how artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are not just buzzwords but powerful tools to tackle some of the toughest challenges in our field.

The energy was great - equal parts curiosity and urgency. These are professionals who understand the stakes: our work is about more than roofs and rent; it’s about creating lasting impact for individuals and communities. And yet, we also know the system is strained. AI and automation offer a path forward.

Missed the session? Here’s a recap of what we covered; download the slides below:

Starting with Generative AI

We kicked off with the basics of generative AI—a family of tools that can create, summarize, or analyze content in ways we never thought possible. From ChatGPT to Google’s Bard, these tools are already in the hands of millions. For affordable housing, they’re not just about convenience; they’re about scale and creativity.

Take leasing, for instance. We demonstrated how a virtual analyst like “Kitt” and an autonomous leasing assistant like “Vivian” can streamline everything from managing day to day thought partnership to lead qualification to lease signing. These tools are not only efficient but free up staff to focus on more complex, high-touch tasks, like resident support.

And it doesn’t stop at personal interactions. Maintenance requests, compliance reporting, and even zoning feasibility studies are becoming faster and smarter with AI-powered workflows. It’s a shift that promises to make housing development not just quicker, but more accurate and inclusive.

Advancing with Automation

The second part of our presentation drilled down into automation. This is where the real productivity gains happen—eliminating repetitive, manual tasks that drain time and resources.

Imagine your asset management or financial reporting processes running in half the time, with fewer errors. That’s the promise of pairing AI with tools like the Microsoft Power Platform. We demonstrated the power of these tools with uses in asset management reporting. The goal isn’t to replace human judgment but to augment it, allowing housing professionals to focus on strategic decision-making instead of wrestling with spreadsheets.

Scaling AI in Affordable Housing

Of course, no discussion of AI is complete without addressing the barriers to adoption. While the potential is enormous, fewer than 20% of organizations are truly ready to implement AI solutions. Why? The reasons vary:

• A lack of clear strategy on where AI fits into existing workflows

• Limited education and awareness among staff

• Concerns about data security and governance

We emphasized that starting small is key. Pilot programs that address specific bottlenecks can demonstrate the value of AI while building internal confidence. And let’s not underestimate the importance of education: upskilling staff to use these tools effectively is an investment, not a cost.

Governing the Future

One question we heard repeatedly is governance. Who controls the data AI systems use? How do we ensure these systems remain fair and unbiased? These aren’t trivial concerns, especially as sensitive and personal data flows through affordable housing management.

We discussed best practices for AI governance, including process mining to identify risks and redundancies and building partnerships with tech providers who prioritize ethical AI use. The overarching message: thoughtful governance isn’t a barrier to AI adoption; it’s a prerequisite for success.

A Transformative Opportunity

The session closed with an invitation: let’s make affordable housing the benchmark for how AI can drive positive, equitable change. By embracing technology, we can increase housing supply, reduce costs, and empower communities like never before.

This isn’t a pipe dream. It’s happening now, and it’s up to us to shape it. Whether through generative AI, automated workflows, or analytical models, the tools are here. The question is: will we use them?

If this sounds daunting, don’t worry - you’re not alone. Organizations like The Strategic Edge, NASLEF and its partners are stepping up to provide the guidance, education, and support needed to navigate this transformation. The path ahead is challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Let’s get to work.

Download the Presentation

Want the full details? Download a copy of the presentation here.

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