Abstract:
The world is leading to an Industrial revolution by automating and integrating novel
construction technologies for efficient decision-making. However, the local Construction
industry lacks to adopt state-of-the-art digital transformation techniques due to the lack of
awareness, technical know-how, and a higher capital cost of those technologies. Literature
reveals numerous research studies in this area have sufficient frameworks worldwide to
improve human digital skill factors. However, there is a lack of information on improving
human digital skill factors in the Sri Lankan context. Therefore, developing a comprehensive
guideline to expedite the construction industry digitalization process in Sri Lanka is essential.
Available competencies and frameworks were identified using a Literature review. Required
competency levels were categorized according to the complexity of the task, autonomy, and
cognitive domain from Level 0 to Level 4 (No skill to Expert Level). For the ease of the data
collection, the workforce was divided into 4 categories: Senior Management,
Engineers/Architects, Quantity Surveyors and Storekeepers. /TO. A questionnaire survey was
conducted with the help of industry experts for the local Construction Industry regarding
digital transformation techniques, training, and consultation programs.
According to the analysis, 94% of respondents believe the construction industry needs to
upskill its digital skills. In Sri Lanka, digital technologies such as Augmented Reality, Virtual
Reality, Three-Dimensional Printing, Drones, Robotics, and the Internet of Things are
relatively less than developed countries. Only 28% of the responders are experienced in
Building Information Modelling (BIM) applications, while 53% are involved in productivity
and planning apps, Communication and Document management systems and Enterprise
Resource Planning. Moreover, it’s found that Senior Management and Middle Management
need a higher digital skill competency level (Level 3) while the technical officer level needs a
comparatively lower level of competency (Level 2). Senior management's active involvement
is critical for the successful digital transformation process. This research's findings benefited
the public and Private sectors in their construction digitalization process.
Citation:
Jayasingha, S. H. V. D. (2022). Human skill factors that affect on digital transformation of the construction industry in Sri Lanka [Master's theses, University of Moratuwa]. Institutional Repository University of Moratuwa. http://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/21460