Construction 4.0 Technologies: Uses and Challenges

Abstract

The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry has been transformed by the increasing adoption of existing and emerging technologies of Industry 4.0, leading to the concept of Construction 4.0. However, the AEC industry is falling behind in comparison to other industries. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a comprehensive overview of digital transformation within the Construction 4.0 framework and explore the uses and challenges associated with adopting the most prominent digital technologies. This study is a literature-based exploration of published works to evaluate knowledge gaps and comprehend the Construction 4.0 concept in the context of the AEC industry. The results present a set of possible uses of 10 promising technologies in Construction 4.0 along with challenges that hinder its adoption. These are categorised as technical, legal, financial, organisational, industry and data security barriers. This research is limited to several promising technologies. Future studies should focus on rapidly developing technologies and finding better solutions for implementation. Besides increasing the awareness of practitioners, policymakers and clients towards Construction 4.0 technologies, it might assist them in making decisions on selecting and implementing key technologies. This chapter contributes to the literature by providing an updated and inclusive review that focuses on the uses and challenges of 10 trending technologies in the specific context of Construction 4.0. Therefore, the findings of this study provide a basis for different actors in the AEC industry to accelerate digital transformation and pave the way for future research.

Citation

Al Mawlani, N. and Al Mubarak, M. (2024), "Construction 4.0 Technologies: Uses and Challenges", Crowther, D. and Seifi, S. (Ed.) Social Responsibility, Technology and AI (Developments in Corporate Governance and Responsibility, Vol. 23), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 69-90. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2043-052320240000023004