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AbstractThe deployment of digital systems has facilitated process improvement in building construction, including for green practices implementation. However, it has encountered several challenges that have limited its use and hindered the diffusion of sustainable practices. Hence, this study aims to identify and assess the major barriers to smart-sustainable practices (SSP) adoption and evaluate its likely impact. A quantitative research method using empirical questionnaire surveys to solicit stakeholders' perceptions in Hong Kong and Nigeria to understand whether there is a commonality in the identified barriers between the two contexts. The collated data were analysed using descriptive statistics such as mean and inferential statistics (factor analysis), while fuzzy synthetic evaluation was used to develop the predictive models. Using non-probability sampling techniques, 97 and 69 responses were gotten from respondents in Hong Kong and Nigeria, respectively. The results revealed that workforce expertise, hesitancy to change from working practices, technical know-how, and inadequate understanding of the SSP process as the most critical barriers to SSP diffusion in Hong Kong and Nigeria. Also, impact evaluation models were developed as a predictive tool to evaluate and respond to the impact of these barriers. It is recommended for industry practitioners and policymakers to collaborate to create local context-based guidelines for facilitating SSP diffusion and monitor its implementation.

AbstractThere are disparities in the adoption of BIM between firms of different sizes and diverse locations. Although extant studies have explored drivers to BIM, there is a dearth of contextualist perspectives. How does the context of size (SME or large firm) and location (developed or developing economy) affects the perception of firms on drivers to BIM? Questions relating to these contexts are still underexplored in extant literature. Thus, this study aims to evaluate and analyse the divide of BIM drivers in these contexts via a comparative study. Data was collected through an international survey from 228 professionals in firms of diverse sizes and locations. The responses were analysed using mean score ranking, rank agreement factor, Mann-Whitney U test and principal components analysis. A comparative analyse was conducted which revealed that the SMEs and large firms differ in their perceptions of desire for innovation, availability of resources and collaboration as drivers to BIM. Similarly, it was highlighted that there is a deep divide between developed and developing countries which would underscore the transferability of best practices and global BIM solutions. The study provided empirical evidence of the BIM divide and would be of importance in bridging the traditionally fragmented construction industry.

AbstractRevamping infrastructure development with the best-emerging technologies and innovative procurement initiatives is seen as the optimal way forward to sustainable development, improved safety and health, performance and management of built infrastructure. The global COVID-19 pandemic has amplified these imperatives highlighting the global need for ‘smart infrastructure’. The needs for overcoming resource constraints suggest the increased potential for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) procurement strategy worldwide. Thus, this study aims to assess the potential for successful partnering between the public and private sectors in developing and sustaining ‘smart infrastructure’ in Hong Kong (HK). A qualitative research design was adopted, leading to ten expert interviews after a comprehensive literature review. The findings unearthed the potential enablers, barriers and enhancing factors, which were built upon regulatory, social, technical and political factors, affecting the adoption and success of PPP in delivering smart infrastructure in HK. An indicative framework was developed to illustrate the fundamental causal relationships of these factors. Through the findings, managing stakeholders, citizen-centric approach and maintaining transparency throughout the project, were identified as significant for the success. The research findings facilitate further studies along with pilot-applications of better-informed approaches to derive enhanced perceived benefits from PPP under appropriate conditions for smart infrastructure in HK.