Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- Introduction
- The Birth of QuikCal
- Support and Development
- Closing the Deal with MOCA Systems
- Implications for the Future
- FAQ
Key Highlights
- Duke University seniors Delali Cudjoe, Alec Liu, and Ken Kalin have successfully sold their AI startup, QuikCal, to MOCA Systems, Inc., after developing it from a class project.
- QuikCal leverages generative AI to improve logistics and scheduling in construction, addressing common issues faced on job sites.
- The students benefited from support programs at Duke, including mentorship and access to industry insights, to advance their venture.
Introduction
When three students at Duke University turned in their final project for an engineering class, they likely couldn't have imagined the journey that lay ahead. What began as a simple solution to a logistical problem on construction sites morphed into a full-fledged startup aimed at revolutionizing the industry's scheduling processes. The story of Delali Cudjoe, Alec Liu, and Ken Kalin and their venture, QuikCal, exemplifies how student engineering projects can evolve into successful businesses. Recently, the team sold QuikCal to MOCA Systems, Inc., a significant player in the construction software field. This development not only marks a remarkable achievement for the trio but also highlights the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and construction management.
The Birth of QuikCal
The inception of QuikCal came during an Engineering 101 course at Duke University, where students are encouraged to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. Cudjoe and Kalin were assigned to collaborate with Evan Reilly, a Duke alumnus working with global construction giant Skanska. Their task was to address logistical complications that frequently arise on construction sites.
During their research, the students discovered that many construction teams relied on large, confusing whiteboards to track deliveries and logistics. This archaic method often led to misunderstandings, resulting in operational inefficiencies. "The friction on job sites was palpable," Kalin remarked, emphasizing the need for a more streamlined solution.
The initial prototype of QuikCal focused solely on delivery scheduling, allowing construction workers to send text messages from the field to update office colleagues about incoming shipments. However, the feedback highlighted the tool's complexity, primarily because it required specific commands that limited its usability.
A Shift Towards Generative AI
The landscape changed dramatically with the advent of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT. Kalin recognized this innovation as the potential game-changer that could enhance QuikCal's functionality. The students realized they could significantly improve their platform's user experience by integrating these tools. “We had to step back and thoroughly understand the industry's struggles and refine our approach,” Cudjoe explained.
The introduction of generative AI enabled QuikCal to evolve from a narrow delivery scheduling tool to a robust platform capable of addressing multiple construction project facets. This included features like pull planning—a collaborative goal-setting and deadline determination process that is traditionally managed with floor-to-ceiling sticky notes.
Innovative Features
One of QuikCal's standout features involves digitizing the sticky note method. Liu developed an AI solution that converts images of these sticky notes into a digital format, maintaining familiarity while transitioning from analog to digital workflows. “Most other tools aim to replace the sticky-note system altogether,” he noted. “Our goal was to enhance what people are already comfortable using.”
Additionally, QuikCal enables construction sites to have designated phone numbers through which workers can text a chatbot to schedule deliveries. This feature simplifies communication and fosters seamless coordination among teams.
Support and Development
The path from student project to startup was fortified by several support initiatives at Duke University. The Christensen Family Center for Innovation played a pivotal role in nurturing budding entrepreneurs, providing essential resources and guidance. Cudjoe, Kalin, and Liu also participated in the Melissa & Doug Entrepreneurs program, which facilitated networking opportunities and provided them the resources to refine their business model.
“Amy Linnane, managing director of the program, was instrumental in offering advice and connecting us with industry veterans and Duke alumni who had navigated similar pathways,” Kalin expressed, acknowledging the impact of non-academic support.
I-Corps Program Influence
The trio further benefited from the National Science Foundation's I-Corps program. This initiative granted them exposure to potential customers and industry experts who shared valuable insights about their product and the market landscape. “The feedback from experienced professionals helped us pivot from a focused delivery service to a more comprehensive project management solution,” Kalin added.
Closing the Deal with MOCA Systems
As graduation approached, the founders faced a pivotal decision about QuikCal’s future. With job offers from major firms in hand—Kalin joining Amplified Industries, while Cudjoe and Liu would be moving to Amazon and Microsoft—they opted to sell QuikCal. “We were fortunate to have multiple companies interested in acquiring us, but MOCA Systems stood out as an industry leader," Kalin noted.
The specific financial details of the sale have not been disclosed, but industry insiders speculate it represents a significant return on the students' investment in time and innovation. Brett Adamczyk, president of MOCA’s software division, praised the QuikCal team for identifying a real-world pain point and developing an actionable technology solution for construction professionals.
Implications for the Future
The sale of QuikCal highlights a broader trend involving the adaptation of AI technologies across various industries, including construction. As construction faces increasing demands for efficiency and coordination, platforms like QuikCal can provide groundbreaking solutions that drive the sector toward more digital-centric practices.
Future Ventures?
Although Cudjoe, Liu, and Kalin have embarked on separate career paths post-graduation, speculation arises about their potential future collaborations. “The running joke is that Ken is supposed to call us one random night and say, ‘alright, we're doing it again,’” Liu mused, hinting at the possibility of rekindling their entrepreneurial spirit.
Their journey from students to startup founders is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and the unyielding support of community resources. As they venture into their respective fields, their experience with QuikCal serves as both a foundation and an inspiration for future endeavors.
FAQ
What is QuikCal?
QuikCal is an AI-driven platform developed by Duke University students that helps streamline scheduling and communication processes at construction sites.
How did QuikCal get started?
The idea for QuikCal emerged from an Engineering 101 class project to address inefficiencies in delivery scheduling at construction sites, guided by a client from Skanska.
What features does QuikCal offer?
Key features include AI-powered delivery scheduling, digital conversion of sticky note planning methods, and a chatbot for coordinating deliveries via text.
Who acquired QuikCal?
QuikCal was acquired by MOCA Systems, Inc., a recognized leader in construction management software.
What are the future prospects for Cudjoe, Liu, and Kalin after selling QuikCal?
All three founders have secured job offers at major companies and may pursue future collaborations, leveraging their startup experience.
How does generative AI enhance QuikCal’s functionality?
Generative AI allows QuikCal to transform complex scheduling processes into user-friendly applications, improving overall efficiency for construction teams.
What role did Duke University programs play in the success of QuikCal?
Programs like the Christensen Family Center for Innovation and the Melissa & Doug Entrepreneurs initiative provided mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities that were crucial for the development and success of QuikCal.