Iqbal, M.; Lin, Z.; Ahmed, R. I.; Ahmad, N. and Hussain, K. (2026) Exploring the paths to big data analytics implementation success in construction projects: An integrated approach. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 33(7), pp. 5418-5444. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose – The study explores critical factors influencing the adoption of big data (BD) in construction projects, addressing challenges such as fragmented organizational dynamics, inadequate regulatory frameworks and limited technological infrastructure. Design/methodology/approach – A comprehensive four-step methodology was employed, including an extensive literature review, expert validation through the Delphi method and the application of interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement (MICMAC) techniques. These methods systematically mapped interdependencies among 16 critical factors affecting BD adoption. Findings – The results identify incentive strategies, legal frameworks and technological access as foundational factors for BD adoption, while leadership support and stakeholder coordination serve as key linking elements. Dependent factors, such as productivity improvements and customer satisfaction, highlight the broader organizational benefits of BD integration. The study provides a hierarchical framework that offers actionable insights for improving BD adoption in the construction sector. Originality/value – This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by applying ISM–MICMAC to a novel context. It bridges theoretical gaps by mapping the interdependencies among BD adoption factors, offering a replicable framework for other sectors. The findings provide practical guidance for policymakers to design supportive policies and for practitioners to address critical adoption barriers effectively.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | adoption factors; big data; construction; ISM; MICMAC; technology implementation |
| Index terms: | customer satisfaction, strategy, validation, literature review, productivity, methodology, body of knowledge, integrated approach, big data, integration, mapping, Delphi method, interpretive structural modelling, practitioner, construction sector, critical factor, implementation, construction project, dynamics, coordination |
| Subjects: | knowledge management, data collection methods, data analysis and analytics, management, industry analysis, organizational analysis, contractual arrangements, service delivery, research methods, practitioner, professional development, spatial and geospatial analysis, systems engineering, production management, information systems, risk assessment |
| Topics: | Risk Management, Organizational Design, Business Strategy, Engineering Principles, Stakeholder Management, Procurement, Digital Applications, Research Practice, Project Management, Information Management, Roles and Professions |
| 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