A systematic approach to implement digital transformation in construction projects

• Main Author: Yang, Yao
• Other Authors: Chen Songlin
• Format: Thesis-Master by Coursework
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2022
• Subjects: Engineering::Civil engineering::Construction management
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/156245
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Digital transformation is defined as integrate digital technologies into the daily operation of the industry to improve performance. At present, it has been implemented in resource management, project management, organizational development and other aspects. Digital management is also a new management mode. The use of digital tools by managers and employees can not only improve the productivity of the project, promote collaboration between members, increase information transparency, but also change the traditional project management way of systematization and technology. The beginning of digital transformation in the industry is also creating more effective and efficient development results. This research intends to demonstrate the necessity and sustainability of digital transformation in construction projects to provide a safer working environment, better building quality and higher productivity in the construction industry. First of all, understand the current implementation process of digital transformation, analyze the four critical points of digital transformation in the construction industry (strength, weakness, opportunity and threat) to define its possible impacts, and provide ideas for how to develop digital transformation in the future. Through the literature review, the key factors for successful digital transformation are analyzed, and the specific impact of these factors on digital transformation is discussed. Finally, through online questionnaire survey and interview, we will understand the opinions of different project participants on digital tools and technologies implemented in their construction projects, including their advantages and disadvantages, further discuss the difficulties encountered in the process of using digital tools and technologies, and put forward feasible suggestions for improvement. Finally, according to the data analysis and research results, a more systematic digital transformation method is proposed to guide people how to avoid the difficulties of digital transformation while ensuring the improvement of project performance to a greater extent. Limitations of this study are also enumerated. The coverage of this online survey is limited to construction-related enterprises in Singapore. Due to the short survey time, there may be some deviations in the data analysis results. Besides, the interview results are based on the personal opinions of construction experts, and the authenticity of the interview results cannot be verified. This study puts forward the risks of digital transformation, but lacks demonstration and verification, which can be discussed in future research. Keywords: Digital Transformation, Digital Tool, Digital Technology, Construction Projects, Systematic Implementation Approach.