Technological transformation of the construction sector: A conceptual approach

Sadeh, H; Mirarchi, C and Pavan, A (2023) Technological transformation of the construction sector: A conceptual approach. International Journal of Construction Management, 23(10), pp. 1704-1714. ISSN 1562-3599

Abstract

If technological transformation has been achieved by some industries, it has been a dilemma for the construction industry for several decades. Further, at firm level within the industry, few companies have achieved this transformation; however, for the majority, the innovation transformation remains as a myth. How can this heterogeneous phenomenon in the construction industry be explained? In this research, an endeavor has been made to theorize this phenomenon and essential determining factors in this realm along with their attendant premises through a comparative study between firms as haves and have-nots regarding digital transformation. Any logical justification, confirmation and disputation of these premises can be verified and validated in future research projects. The firms within the industry were divided into two categories of conventional with resistance to change and avonguards that welcome change. The characteristics of these two groups were investigated by identifying pathways towards digitalization.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: digitalization; technology; transformation
Index terms: transformation, comparative study, construction industry, digitalization, construction sector
Subjects: digital technology, business, research design and methodology, industry analysis
Topics: Digital Applications, Business Strategy, Research Practice
Descriptive scope: 4 PCTA

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here