Understanding the construction digital technology assimilation process in AEC companies: Exploration based on grounded theory and verification of SEM

Digital technologies are increasingly introduced to architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) enterprises worldwide. However, many firms struggle to effectively assimilate these technologies, even when they have been adopted. While prior research has largely emphasized technology adoption and implementation, less is known about digital technology assimilation in the AEC sector. Drawing on the process perspective, this study develops and validates a sequential digital technology assimilation (DTA) model in AEC companies, comprising technology adaptation (TAD), technology acceptance (TAC), and technology infusion (TI). The model was first proposed through grounded theory analysis of multicase study with three typical AEC companies in China. Then, structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to test relationships between the dimensions involved in DTA using 314 valid questionnaires. The results suggest that TAD has a significant positive effect on TAC (path coefficient value=0.42, p<0.001) and TI (path coefficient value=0.36, p<0.001), while TAC also positively influences TI (path coefficient value=0.52, p<0.001). Mediation analysis further reveals that TAC partially mediates the relationship between TAD and TI, with the indirect effect (a*b=0.19, 95% CI [0.119, 0.291]) accounting for 52.78% of the total effect. From a theoretical perspective, this paper clarified the staged DTA process and the sequential relationships in project-based AEC firms. This paper also contributes by measuring various dimensions of assimilation, thereby providing a basic analytical framework for future research. Practically, the findings highlight the importance of employee acceptance and organizational readiness in achieving sustained digital transformation in construction enterprises, offering actionable guidance for managers and policymakers.