Bello, A O; Abdulraheem, A A; Agboola, S A and Afolabi, O P (2025) Factors influencing the adoption of distributed ledger technology in developing countries: An examination of Nigerian construction industry. International Journal of Construction Education and Research, 21(3), pp. 290-320. ISSN 1557-8771
Abstract
The construction industry is known for its intricate and fragmented nature, often plagued by inefficient processes and data management challenges. Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) presents a promising solution, potentially revolutionizing data sharing, transparency, and security. However, the successful adoption of DLT necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its implications, effective organizational changes, and strategic implementation strategies. This study examines the critical factors in adopting DLT into construction processes and workflows. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders in the Nigerian construction industry. The findings emphasize the importance of educating staff about DLT's benefits, strategic planning aligned with business goals, collaboration with DLT experts, universities, and industry partners, careful planning and robust security measures, and organizational changes such as dedicated DLT teams and engaging suppliers. Recommendations include prioritizing continuous improvement, investing in training programs, and exploring integration with emerging technologies. The study provides empirical insights into DLT adoption challenges and strategies, synthesizing these findings with existing literature, and offers a roadmap for construction firms, policymakers, and researchers seeking to leverage DLT for enhanced efficiency and innovation in the construction industry.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction industry; construction organisation; developing countries; digital construction; distributed ledger technology |
| Index terms: | workflow, program, collaboration, integration, construction process, construction firm, survey, strategy, developing country, interview, organizational change, transparency, construction industry, implementation, strategic planning, emerging technology, critical factor, data management, continuous improvement, digital construction, prioritizing, construction organization, efficiency |
| Subjects: | business, risk assessment, data collection methods, performance management, software systems, performance measurement, management, professional development, decision analysis, data management, organizational analysis, information systems, industry analysis, organization, contractual arrangements, innovation and technology management, development economics, building construction |
| Topics: | Quality Management, Procurement, Risk Management, Organizational Design, Site Management, International Construction, Digital Applications, Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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