I guess i've already written about the automation part based on subtractive
manufacturing. Those things, whether the space escalator or the buildings,
can be targeted automation per step. Not all of it, it would still need
people. But can be reduced.
If laser is impratical, then, machines designed to be easily replaced
cutting and drilling, its end bits in contact with the minerals must
become modular. Easily installed.
Which would require metal compression/folding tools, to increase its
density, and maybe some minerals from Earth to create an alloy,
as well as casting.
I think, to call it truly 'colonized' by humans is to use their
own resource with these 'create something from nothing' type of tools.
Lasers can be useful in a very mineral collected environment
where it is mostly rocky surface. But maybe unnecessary.
So yes, there are impractical parts to my plans, but it can easily
be adapted and changed. I suggested these ideas expecting these changes.
But what it aims for, and how it gets there is inevitable.
For we've already tested it on Earth.
The order and usage is a matter of choice I think,
and limitations only in automation.