Evaluating critical success factors for implementing smart devices in the construction industry: An empirical study in the Dominican Republic
Abstract
Purpose: The decentralisation of information and high rate of mobile content access in the construction industry provides an ideal scenario for improvement of processes via the implementation of the paradigm of the Internet of Things (IoT). Smart devices are considered as the objects interconnected in the IoT; therefore they play a fundamental role in the implementation of digital solutions during the execution of construction projects. This paper is aimed at assessing the critical factors for a successful implementation of smart devices in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach: An empirical study was performed in the Dominican Republic. This country, located at the heart of the Caribbean presents an economy that strongly relies on the construction industry. Following a systematic approach, a qualitative data collection and analysis was performed based on semistructured interviews and content analysis to professionals of construction companies in the Dominican Republic, enquiring the concept of smart devices and critical success factors (CSFs) for implementing the devices in the industry. Findings: The key success factors obtained from the contestants were Leadership, technology awareness, company size, usability of proposed solution, cost of implementation and interoperability. Originality/value: This paper provides information to clients of the construction sector regarding the benefits of embedding smart devices into their business activities. Furthermore, this study provides a better understanding of the key factors to be considered by construction organisations when embedding smart devices into their projects. This study also provides recommendations for distinct stakeholders of the construction sector, such as policymakers, clients and technology consultants. Policymakers should especially consider factors such as technology awareness and leadership to develop the right policies for the integration of the IoT in construction projects. Technology consultants should be aware of the latest case studies of successful implementation of smart devices and IoT systems in the world in order to adapt and implement smart devices and IoT in their projects.Citation
Silverio-Fernández, M., Renukappa, S., Suresh, S. (2019) 'Utilisation of smart devices in the construction industry: An empirical study in the dominican republic', Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 7 (1) pp. 15-29Publisher
EmeraldJournal
Engineering, Construction and Architectural ManagementType
Journal articleLanguage
enISSN
0969-9988ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1108/ECAM-02-2018-0085
Scopus Count
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