Martin, H; Garner, M; Manewa, A and Chadee, A (2025) Validating the relative importance of technology diffusion barriers– exploring modular construction design-build practices in the UK. International Journal of Construction Education and Research, 21(1), pp. 3-23. ISSN 1557-8771
Abstract
This research investigates the low use of modular construction despite its recognized cost, time, quality, safety, and sustainability advantages. Using technology diffusion theory, this study seeks to identify and rank the characteristics that impede modular building adoption, such as relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability. A survey of industry professionals in the United Kingdom was undertaken, and the results, validated by a one-sample t-test, showed that attitudes toward modular building, rather than technical difficulties, are the key impediments to broad adoption. The degree to which modular construction resonates with prospective adopters' current values, past experiences, and requirements determines its acceptance. Traditional mind-sets, the presence of traditional constructs, resistance to change, prior attitudes, bid prices, hesitation, and skepticism are all associated with non-adoption. Professional positions serve as a bridge between adopters and non-adapters. The research also emphasizes the importance of design-build project delivery systems and early supplier chain participation in accelerating the mainstream adoption of modular construction.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | content validity; offsite manufacturing; questionnaire validation; sustainability; technology adoption; questionnaire survey |
| Index terms: | relative advantage, modular building, validity, presence, trialability, diffusion theory, project delivery, technology adoption, relative importance, United Kingdom, survey, modular construction, questionnaire, validation, complexity |
| Subjects: | professional development, systems engineering, risk assessment, data collection methods, project delivery, Geography, building construction, evaluation and assessment methods, innovation studies, environmental science, innovation and technology management |
| Topics: | Construction Technology, Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy, Procurement, Sustainability, Risk Management, Geographical Context, Engineering Principles |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCEA |
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