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Due to the critical importance of digital transformation in enhancing industrial growth and competitiveness, especially in heavy construction, this study introduces a tailored capability assessment model and self-appraisal tool for firms in this sector. These resources enable them to gauge their readiness for adopting digital technology effectively.

Utilizing the Technology—Organization—Environment (TOE) and Natural Resource Dependence Theory (NRDT) frameworks, 22 markers were identified to structure a questionnaire distributed to construction professionals. Descriptive analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) were used to develop the capability assessment model. A validation survey assessed the validity of both the model and the self-appraisal instrument.

The study identified the top five significant markers: (1) leadership commitment to digital transformation, (2) workforce readiness for technology integration, (3) potential ROI through efficiency gains, (4) technology maturity for construction applications and (5) complexity of integrating new technologies with existing workflows. Through FSE, the most critical factors were technology-related, organizational and resource optimization markers.

By employing the TOE and NRDT frameworks, the study identifies the most critical factors influencing digital adoption in heavy construction. Also, the user-friendly self-appraisal instrument developed in this study can be considered a valuable contribution, as it provides heavy construction firms with a practical tool for ongoing monitoring and improvement of their digital transformation efforts.

The demand for potable water increases with population growth, given its role in sustaining life. As part of a wider approach to ensuring sustainable provision, this has prompted a number of carefully formulated water efficiency improvement plans for buildings, one of the highest water-consuming sectors. This paper presents a detailed analysis of water efficiency potential for a multi-storey commercial complex and an office building in central Malaysia.

In this study, a detailed analysis of the water use and efficiency of the water fittings was carried out. Important data such as historical water use and details of water fittings were acquired during a field survey. A series of water flow rate tests were conducted at the selected buildings and each of the water systems was analysed separately, using the criteria of water efficiency stipulated by a locally applied green building tool. A comparison of water consumption before and after the improvement plan was then made.

Findings from the field surveys indicate that only some of the water fittings were certified with recognised efficiency ratings, which suggests a good opportunity for improvement. The proposed replacement of more-efficient fittings could potentially improve the obtainable green credit points by at least 10 from a maximum of 15. A cost–benefit analysis for a water fitting replacement scheme shows that the estimated payback period is less lengthy for the larger commercial building due to the higher potential savings.

Strategies for improvements in water efficiency for existing non-residential buildings are provided in this paper. The same water consumption analysis procedure can be used by maintenance engineers and other practitioners in building assessments where water efficiency and sustainability in building operation are of concern.

This case study responds to the need for efficient use of freshwater and provides insight into the water efficiency opportunities for commercial buildings. The potential cost savings for replacements of inefficient water fittings have been analysed using a green building tool as a guide. This has not been extensively analysed in previous studies.