A multivariate regression analysis of barriers to digital technologies adoption in the construction industry

PurposeWith growing concern about sustainable development and increased awareness of environmental issues, digital technologies (DTs) are gaining prominence and becoming a promising trend to improve productivity, sustainability and project performance in the construction industry. Nonetheless, the uptake of DTs in the construction industry has been limited and plagued with roadblocks. This study aims to identify critical barriers for construction organisations to adopt DTs and to demonstrate relationships between organisational characteristics and the perceived DTs adoption barriers.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted an explanatory sequential design by combining the advantages of quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection methods include literature review, a pilot study, questionnaire survey, and semi-structured interviews. Questionnaire data were analysed by using SPSS and multivariate regression technique. The interview data were processed by using content analysis to validate and supplement findings from the questionnaire.FindingsBased on the survey and interview results, eight critical barriers were identified: the three top critical barriers are (1) status quo industry standards, (2) lack of client interest and (3) lack of financial need/drive for using DTs. The eight critical barriers were further classified into technical, environmental, and social dimensions to determine the major constructs that hinder DTs adoption. A theoretical framework articulating critical barriers with underlying components and root causes was also proposed. Furthermore, by using multivariate regression analysis, a model was developed to link the organisational characteristics with barriers to DTs adoption.Practical implicationsBy referring to the framework and the model developed, academics, industry practitioners, and decision makers can identify pivotal areas for improvement, make informed decisions and implement remedial measures to remove the barriers to digitalisation transformation.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature on construction innovations by investigating barriers to DTs adoption holistically as well as perceptions of the impact of organisational attributes on these barriers. It establishes the groundwork for future empirical research into the strategic consolidation of movement of DTs adoption and diffusion.

Automated summary

This study aims to identify critical barriers for construction organisations to adopt digital technologies (DTs) and to demonstrate relationships between organisational characteristics and the perceived DTs adoption barriers. By adopting an explanatory sequential design, combining the advantages of quantitative and qualitative data, this study collected data through literature review, questionnaire survey, and semi-structured interviews. The findings identified eight critical barriers, classified into technical, environmental, and social dimensions, and established a theoretical framework and a model to link organisational characteristics with barriers to DTs adoption. This study contributes to the literature on construction innovations and provides a foundation for future empirical research into DTs adoption and diffusion.