Singh, A. K.; Mohandes, S. R.; Awuzie, B. O.; Omotayo, T.; Kumar, V. R. P. and Kidd, C. (2026) A roadmap for overcoming barriers to implementation of blockchain-enabled smart contracts in sustainable construction projects. Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, 15(2), pp. 570-596. ISSN 2046-6099
Abstract
Purpose – This study delves into the challenges obstructing the integration of blockchain-enabled smart contracts (BESC) in the construction industry. Its primary objective is to identify these barriers and propose a roadmap to streamline BESC adoption, thereby promoting sustainability and resilience in building engineering. Design/methodology/approach – Employing a unique approach, this study combines the Technology-Organization-Environment-Social (TOE + S) framework with the IF-Delphi-HF-DEMATEL-IFISM methodology. Data is collected through surveys and expert interviews, enabling a comprehensive analysis of BESC implementation barriers. Findings – The analysis reveals significant hindrances in the construction industry's adoption of BESC. Key obstacles include economic and market conditions, insufficient awareness and education about blockchain technology among stakeholders, and limited digital technology integration in specific cultural and societal contexts. These findings shed light on the complexities faced by the industry in embracing blockchain solutions. Originality/value – The research makes a significant contribution by combining the TOE + S framework with the IF-Delphi-HF-DEMATEL-IFISM methodology, resulting in a comprehensive roadmap to address barriers in implementing BESC in Sustainable Construction Projects. Noteworthy for its practicality, this roadmap provides valuable guidance for construction stakeholders. Its impact extends beyond the industry, influencing both academic discourse and practical applications.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | blockchain technology; construction industry; construction projects; fuzzy sets theory; smart contracts |
| Index terms: | methodology, survey, interview, market condition, building engineering, digital technology, fuzzy set, implementation, blockchain, construction project, integration, smart contract, complexity, sustainable construction project, construction industry |
| Subjects: | mechanical systems, systems engineering, production management, decision-making and optimization, computing systems, economic and policy analysis, research methods, organizational analysis, contractual arrangements, industry analysis, data collection methods, sustainable construction, digital technology |
| Topics: | Organizational Design, Sustainability, Engineering Principles, Procurement, Digital Applications, Research Practice, Project Management |
| 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