Unravelling the Challenges of Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Construction Projects: A Comprehensive Analysis of Barriers to Acceptance
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15282/construction.v5i2.11820Keywords:
Artificial Intelligence (AI), Innovative technology, Building, Construction project, BarriersAbstract
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key enabler of digital transformation across various industries, including construction. Despite its potential to enhance project delivery through improvements in productivity, quality, and cost-efficiency, the adoption of AI in construction remains limited, particularly in developing countries. To address this gap, this study investigates the core barriers hindering the acceptance and adoption of AI technology in construction projects and aims to identify and prioritize the most significant among them. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected through a web-based survey targeting technologists and contractors. The study employed the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to evaluate four main barrier categories—motivation, incentives, skills, and cost—each comprising several sub-factors. Findings revealed that motivation (34.40%) is the most significant barrier, followed by incentives (27.20%), skills (21.20%), and cost (17.30%). The top three sub-factors were suspicious performance (M3) at 39.10%, lack of political support (I2) at 36.43%, and poor public acceptability (M2) at 35.79%. These findings offer important insights for policymakers and construction stakeholders to develop targeted interventions that support the integration of AI technologies, aligned with Industry 4.0 initiatives.
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