Law, M.; Ninan, J.; Wamelink, H.; Jennen, P.; Meulstee, L. and van den Boom, I. (2026) Transition to timber construction: Project level socio-technical processes interpreted through a TIS framework perspective. Construction Management and Economics, 44(6), pp. 397-411. ISSN 0144-6193
Abstract
In recent years, the use of timber as a sustainable construction material has gained increasing attention driven by environmental policy incentives and growing demand for low-carbon alternatives. The idea of separate approaches to the social and technical systems upon transitioning towards timber could no longer suffice for the complex construction sector. We therefore investigate, (1) what are the socio-technical dynamics driving the transition to timber building projects? and (2) how can the transition to timber be facilitated within the complex and multifaceted residential construction industry from a Technological Innovation System (TIS) framework perspective? The socio-technical dynamics identified following the analysis of 17 semi-structured interviews in the Netherlands are leadership, standardization, product-based construction, stakeholder alignment, and business case viability. Theoretically, we argue that the timber transition requires a comprehensive approach across production systems and service delivery. Practically, this research identifies enabling processes that can support learning and legitimacy in timber construction projects.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | socio-technical processes; sustainable transitions; timber construction practices; technical innovation system |
| Index terms: | socio-technical, service delivery, technological innovation, residential construction, standardization, dynamics, production system, sustainable construction, interview, Netherlands, timber construction, innovation system, legitimacy, business case, construction sector, environmental policy |
| Subjects: | data collection methods, business, sociology, industry analysis, systems engineering, design practice, performance measurement, construction integration, service delivery, public policy, innovation and technology management, strategic project management, manufacturing engineering, research methods, Geography, sustainable construction |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Business Strategy, Governance, Design Practice, Organizational Design, Engineering Principles, Project Management, Geographical Context, Sustainability, Quality Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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