Implementation of industry 4.0 in construction industry: a review

Abstract

The article aims to study the literature on Industry-4.0 technologies and “Triple Bottom Line” (social, economical and environmental) parameters in the construction industry. The study focuses on analyzing the gaps in various researches conducted till now and suggests possible information that can be used to improve business processes. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Method is adopted to select the articles. One hundred fifty-six published articles from 2015 to 2023 are examined to understand various theoretical frameworks. Content-based analysis is used for the categorization of five significant categories: (1) Industry 4.0 Enablers; (2) Barriers in Industry 4.0 Adoption; (3) Challenges in Construction Industry; (4) Opportunities for the principle Industry 4.0 Technology; (5) Impact of “Industry 4.0” Technologies. Based on categorization, rewards or incentives, management involvement, employers training, Building Information Modeling, Big Data, Cloud computing, etc., are major enablers of Industry 4.0 in the construction industry. Implementation cost, lack of knowledge, and poor long-term planning are analyzed as common barriers. Numerous challenges and opportunities related to Industry 4.0 technologies have been identified.

Moreover, the Triple Bottom Line impacts of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as waste management, cost reduction, health and security, and resource planning, are also analyzed. The study also revealed that there are numerous research gaps in the integrated application of technology and sustainability because of information inadequacy and unawareness of the stakeholders. The study’s findings will help uncover detailed information in a systematical manner for developing an integrated sustainable business environment in the construction industry. The study considering the specific period and inclusion/exclusion criteria can possibly develop limitations of missing a few relevant articles and information in this context.