Strategic framework for implementing smart devices in the construction industry

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 digital transformation of the construction industry. Currently, there is a lack of guidelines regarding the implementation of smart devices for digitalisation in the construction industry. Consequently, this paper intends to provide a set of guidelines for implementing smart devices in the construction industry Design/methodology/approach: An empirical study was performed in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Dominican Republic (DR). Following a systematic approach, qualitative data collection and analysis was performed based on semi-structured interviews involving professionals from construction companies in the UK and the DR. Interviews were recorded and subsequently transcribed using and exported to the software NVivo where it was used to find common thematic nodes across all interviews. Findings: The findings encompass drivers, challenges and Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for implementing smart devices in construction project. For both countries the top five CSFs were Leadership, Staff training, culture, technology awareness and cost of implementation. These findings were used to develop a strategic framework for implementing smart devices in construction companies. The framework stablishes the actors, elements and actions to be considered by construction companies when implementing smart devices. Originality/value: The paper provides a richer insight into the understanding and awareness of implementing smart devices. A strategic framework for implementing smart devices in the construction industry and providing guidelines for adopting smart devices in construction projects was developed and validated. This study provides a better understanding of the key factors to be considered by construction companies when embedding smart devices into their projects.