Chenchu, M. K.; Ruikar, K. and Jha, K. N. (2026) Strategic social network analysis for overcoming knowledge management challenges in construction: An in-depth review. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 33(7), pp. 5495-5521. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose – The construction sector faces significant challenges in knowledge management (KM) due to its complex and project-based nature. These challenges lead to inefficient knowledge sharing and retention. Addressing these challenges is vital for improving project outcomes and organizational performance. This study examines KM obstacles and identifies effective Social Network Analysis (SNA) approaches to address them. Design/methodology/approach – This research employs the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) technique, conducting two detailed literature reviews. The first review focused on the KM challenges in the construction sector, resulting in 139 articles. The second review examines the SNA approaches in KM, resulting in 42 articles for study. Content analysis was performed on 139 articles to identify global trends and KM challenges. The following thematic analysis is performed on 42 articles to categorize effective SNA approaches for KM. Findings – The study shows that the approach of integrating SNA with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and big data analytics enhances collaboration, communication, and decision-making in construction projects. This integrated approach addresses key KM challenges such as trust issues, knowledge hoarding, and inadequate access to technology. Research limitations/implications – The study acknowledges potential biases in literature selection and the focus on developing nations, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research should explore broader geographic contexts and diverse methodologies. Practical implications – Practical implications suggest that construction organizations invest in training and technology to improve KM practices. Socially, fostering a collaborative culture within construction teams is crucial for enhancing knowledge sharing and overall project performance, ultimately benefiting the industry. Originality/value – This research offers originality and value by mapping KM challenges to specific SNA approaches. It offers a practical framework for construction firms to improve their KM practices. It contributes to the existing knowledge by providing strategic pathways to enhance KM through advanced technologies and collaborative techniques.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | approaches; big data analytics; challenges; construction sector; knowledge management; social network analysis |
| Index terms: | thematic analysis, retention, knowledge sharing, integrated approach, meta-analysis, collaboration, decision-making, construction organization, bias, developing nation, construction sector, methodology, systematic literature review, building information modelling, face, construction firm, project outcome, knowledge management, literature review, construction team, social network analysis, construction project, project performance, mapping, big data, content analysis, organizational performance |
| Subjects: | information systems, management, spatial and geospatial analysis, project management theory and practice, research evaluation and metrics, probability and distributions, production management, industry analysis, development economics, psychology, project completion, professional development, organization, performance measurement, data analysis and analytics, project delivery, research methods, decision analysis, methods and analysis, contractual arrangements, knowledge management |
| Topics: | Risk Management, Information Management, Digital Applications, Quality Management, Human Resources, International Construction, Procurement, Business Strategy, Organizational Design, Research Practice, Project Management |
| 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