Oke, A E; Aliu, J; Fadamiro, P; Leo-Olagbaye, F; Jamir Singh, P S and Samsurijan, M S (2023) Evaluating the drivers for the implementation of automation techniques in the Nigerian construction sector. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 13(6), pp. 913-928. ISSN 2044-124X
Abstract
Purpose: Global construction sector studies have significantly explored the impact of automation techniques, revealing their transformative potential. However, research on their application within specific local contexts, especially in developing countries like Nigeria, is sparse. Nigeria presents a unique context marked by challenges such as skilled labor shortage, safety concerns and cost efficiency. Therefore, investigating the implementation of automation techniques in the Nigerian construction industry is crucial to address these challenges, bring transformative advancements and contribute to a more balanced global discourse on automation adoption. This study aims to fill this significant research gap. Design/methodology/approach: A mixed research method was deployed which combined both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. Two focus group discussions conducted with 23 experts from both industry and academic institutions (qualitative) yielded 17 drivers which were used to formulate a well-structured questionnaire (quantitative), which was disseminated to construction professionals. Collected data underwent analysis through various statistical techniques, including percentages, frequencies, mean item scores and exploratory factor analysis. Findings: Principal component analysis (PCA) yielded four driver clusters namely: (1) performance-related drivers, (2) visualization and efficiency-related drivers, (3) technological and human-related drivers and (4) economic-related drivers. Practical implications: The study provides empirical insights that can aid stakeholders, decision-makers, policymakers and the government in formulating strategies to promote automation techniques in the Nigerian construction industry and beyond. Originality/value: This study's originality lies in its exploration of the untapped potential of automation techniques in the Nigerian construction industry, offering novel perspectives on how these technologies can address specific challenges such as skilled labor shortage, safety concerns and cost efficiency, thereby paving the way for transformative advancements in the sector.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | automation; construction; construction projects; digital technologies; safety |
| Index terms: | focus group, construction professional, methodology, paving, exploratory factor analysis, exploration, strategy, implementation, Nigeria, digital technology, construction project, developing country, skilled labour, cost efficiency, questionnaire, global construction, construction industry, visualization, construction sector, principal component analysis, automation, efficiency |
| Subjects: | computing systems, strategic management, Geography, industry analysis, research methods, economics, production management, statistical analysis, design practice, performance management, environmental resource management, automation and robotics, transportation engineering, contractual arrangements, management, development economics, professional development, data collection methods |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Quality Management, Project Management, Design Practice, Engineering Principles, Procurement, International Construction, Sustainability, Information Management, Geographical Context, Cost Management, Digital Applications, Human Resources, Business Strategy |
| 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