Assessing Construction Transformation and Implication on Future Production Flow System

Abstract

Construction has witnessed great transformation since its cradle. The material, product and production subsystems have changed. Plant and heavy equipment have been introduction in the procurement process. The changes have disrupted production flow system at different milestone in its developmental history. The most recent development called Construction 4.0 is a digitalized era where interconnectivity of things is transforming the construction system with promising disruptions once again if fully actualised. Unlike the prevailing Construction 3.0 that relies more on hard technology, the unique feature of Construction 4.0 era blends both hard and soft technologies equally in its operation. This enables automation of machines and their interconnectivity to communicate and perform tasks. These technologies are at different levels of development and tests. Researchers seem to have paid less attention in assessing their implication on the future construction workflow. Understanding this is prerequisite to proper planning for early adoption into construction systems flow for early and maximum benefits. This work appraised 21 relevant technologies that are at the frontiers of construction 4.0. While some of these technologies might not have been initiated from the construction domain nor being construction specific, their application in the construction sector have been clearly availed. The technologies were subsequently classified along their relevance in construction procurement stages. This provides information for easy identification and choice of construction 4.0 technologies to meeting construction solutions. This also enriches literature on the subject. Professionals and investors should get prepared and be guided on informed decisions in achieving Construction 4.0.