Evaluating the current state of digitalisation of the UK construction industry

Due to the significant role of the construction industry in terms of the impact on economies and the environment, digitalisation of this sphere deserves special attention. This study aims to evaluate the state of digitalisation of the UK construction industry from the perspective of construction professionals. A critical review of existing literature is conducted to identify and evaluate the (1) barriers to adoption and implementation of digital practices, (2) the gap in adoption between small and medium enterprises and large-sized companies, (3) currently available, and (4) future technologies. The findings of the literature review were further investigated by adopting the mixed method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods to develop a comprehensive understanding of the digitalisation phenomena in the context of the UK construction industry. In total, 81 questionnaire responses were returned and 5 interviews were conducted to gauge the opinions of construction professionals. The results reveal how there have been minimal advancements, in line with prior predictions, and how there is still considerable room for improvement to digitalise the industry. The study is an up-to-date snap shot of the current reality in the field of construction digitalisation in the UK and therefore provides the actual picture of the current state of affairs that could be useful for the industry as a whole.