Underlying indicators for measuring smartness of buildings in the construction industry

Purpose This study investigates the underlying indicators for measuring the smartness of buildings in the construction industry; where the Smart Building Technology (SBT) concept (which incorporates elements of the Zero Energy Building (NZEB) concept) could ensure efficient energy consumption and high performance of buildings. Design/methodology/approach An overarching post-positivist and empirical epistemological design was adopted to analyze primary quantitative data collected via a structured questionnaire survey with 227 respondents. The mean ranking analysis and one-samplet-test were employed to analyse data. Findings Research findings revealed that the level of knowledge of smart building indicators is averagely high in the Ghanaian construction industry. Future research is required to evaluate the awareness level of Smart Building Technologies (SBTs) by construction professionals and identify barriers to its adoption. Originality/value A blueprint guidance model (consisting of significant indicators for measuring building smartness) was developed to help improve building performance and inform policymakers.

Automated summary

This study investigates potential indicators for measuring the smartness of buildings and proposes a blueprint guidance model to improve building performance and inform policymakers. The research findings reveal that the Ghanaian construction industry has a relatively high level of knowledge about smart building indicators, but further research is needed to assess the awareness level of smart building technologies and identify adoption barriers.