Blockchain in construction management: Applications, advantages and limitations

Blockchain technology (BCT) has been implemented in different industries, including healthcare, manufacturing and construction. Integrating recent technologies such as the internet of things (IoT), building information modeling (BIM), and artificial intelligence with BCT creates the potential for overcoming many limitations within the construction industry. Blockchain smart contracts, for example, can solve problems related to traditional contract forms. In construction projects, smart contracts based on BCT can enhance payment transparency, protect transaction histories, and provide secure access to information. Since BCT platforms are decentralized, reducing unnecessary bureaucracy will improve open communications, and BCT application can prevent disputes rooted in communication issues, inaccurate documentation, and payment problems. This study focuses on reviewing BCT characteristics to evaluate impacts on mitigating disputes. Based on a systematic review of the publications, a comprehensive classification of blockchain-enabled applications in managing construction disputes is presented. This review identifies gaps in research and opportunities for future studies in the construction domain.

Automated summary

Blockchain technology has the potential to overcome limitations in the construction industry by enhancing payment transparency, protecting transaction histories, and improving access to information. It can also prevent disputes arising from communication issues, inaccurate documentation, and payment problems.