Benefits and challenges of automated materials technology in industrial construction projects

Abstract

The widespread adoption of automated materials locating and tracking technologies (AMLTTs) in the construction supply chain can positively impact productivity in industrial construction projects. Prior academic studies have identified the need, recommended the use and demonstrated the potential of AMLTTs using field trials and experiments. These studies have also identified the potential benefits and challenges of AMLTT implementation. Very few studies have empirically examined the on-site application of AMLTTs in projects and reported the actual benefits and challenges. This paper examines the commercial implementation of AMLTT in seven industrial projects to examine the benefits and challenges. Based on the empirical studies, four propositions are presented on the benefits and challenges of AMLTT use. First, improved operational efficiency due to AMLTT allows project/firm personnel to focus more on business-critical activities. Second, AMLTT use improves the transactional visibility of materials through information sharing in the supply-chain network. Third, AMLTT use requires a thorough data management plan. Finally, in order to achieve strategic benefits, AMLTT use requires addressing the organisational aspects of technology adoption. The enhanced understanding of the benefits and challenges of AMLTT implementation is the contribution to the industrial construction body of knowledge.