Singh, V (2025) Digitalization, BIM ecosystem, and the future of built environment: How widely are we exploring the different possibilities? Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 32(7), pp. 4900-4917. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to conduct a critical analysis of the commonly projected visions on the future of built environment, focusing on transformative research. The primary question is will the construction sector be able to make the projected transformative leap even if the history of technology adoption in construction suggests otherwise? And, what role can academic research play? Design/methodology/approach: This paper is based on a reflective research and qualitative review of academic articles, white papers and reported projections for the future of construction. The reflections are based on discussions with colleagues and students, including thought experiments. Findings: There is a general agreement across various sources about the key technical and social drivers for the future of construction. However, these projections seem to be emanating from industry insiders, and more diversity and creativity is needed in exploring alternative possibilities. Research limitations/implications: The paper should be useful for researchers in assessing their research strategy, especially those aiming to focus on the future of construction and transformative research. The findings of this paper suggest the need for collaboration and explorations with diverse disciplines, including those that may not appear immediately connected to digital construction. Practical implications: The paper should be useful for individuals and organizations, especially start-ups that are seeking novel opportunities to disrupt the future of construction. Originality/value: The originality and value of this research lies in a timely critique of the commonly projected trends in the future of digital construction. The use of reflective research and thought experiments emphasizes the need for divergent thinking and creative research methods in construction research.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | building information modelling; innovation; strategic management; technology |
| Index terms: | methodology, exploration, collaboration, strategic management, history, construction sector, digitalization, strategy, experiment, reflection, built environment, technology adoption, building information modelling, digital construction, creativity, critique |
| Subjects: | information systems, infrastructure and transport systems, industry analysis, professional development, management, architectural and construction history, data collection methods, innovation and creative processes, research methods, innovation and technology management, environmental resource management, digital technology, evaluation and assessment methods |
| Topics: | Design Practice, Urban Studies, Digital Applications, Organizational Design, Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy, Engineering Principles, Sustainability |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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