Construction in the digital age: exploring the benefits of digital technologies

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this article was to identify and evaluate the benefits of adopting digital technologies (DTs) in the Nigerian construction industry, to ensure that construction projects are efficiently and effectively executed.Design/methodology/approachA scoping literature review was conducted through which benefits of implementing DTs were identified, which helped in the formulation of a questionnaire survey. Data were obtained from construction professionals including architects, builders, engineers and quantity surveyors. Retrieved data were analyzed using several statistical tools such as percentages, frequencies, mean item scores and exploratory factor analyses.FindingsBased on the mean item score ranking results, the top five significant benefits of adopting DTs were increased operational efficiency, increased productivity, increased speed of executing tasks, seamless working methodology and accurate documentation of data. Findings from the factor analysis revealed six clusters of benefits namely an improved framework for operations, improved innovativeness, improved safety practices, increased competitive edge, greater accuracy and increased productivity.Practical implicationsThis study expands on the existing discussions surrounding the digital transformation of the construction sector in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria, a region where the awareness and implementation of smart and innovative technologies are still at an infant stage.Originality/valueAlthough several studies on the benefits of adopting DTs in the construction industry of developing countries exist, very few have been conducted in the Nigerian context. Thus, this is a significant knowledge gap that must be filled. Thus, the findings of this study can serve as a basis for construction organizations in Nigeria and similar countries seeking the digital transformation of their activities.