PROFESSIONAL PERCEPTION OF THE PROBLEM AND PROSPECT OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION. A CASE STUDY OF JULIUS BERGER INTERNATIONAL

PROFESSIONAL PERCEPTION OF THE PROBLEM AND PROSPECT OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION.  A CASE STUDY OF JULIUS BERGER INTERNATIONAL

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Emerging technologies are reshaping various sectors, including building construction. In Nigeria, Julius Berger International, a leading construction company, has been at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies into construction practices. This integration promises significant improvements in efficiency, safety, and project outcomes (Olawale & Sun, 2021; Alabi & Oyewole, 2022).

 

Technological Advancements in Construction: Emerging technologies in building construction include Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D printing, drones, and prefabrication. These technologies offer numerous benefits, such as enhanced design accuracy, reduced construction time, and improved project management (Nwachukwu & Okeke, 2021). BIM allows for comprehensive project visualization and coordination, while 3D printing and prefabrication facilitate faster and more precise construction processes (Adepoju & Olowu, 2023).

 

Julius Berger International's Role: Julius Berger International, a major player in the Nigerian construction industry, has embraced these emerging technologies to enhance its project execution and management. The company's use of BIM and other advanced technologies demonstrates its commitment to innovation and excellence in construction (Julius Berger, 2020). This case study aims to explore the professional perception of these technologies and their impact on building construction practices at Julius Berger International.

 

Challenges and Opportunities: While emerging technologies offer substantial advantages, their adoption also presents challenges. These include the high initial costs of technology implementation, the need for specialized training, and potential resistance to change within organizations (Ogunlana & Olufemi, 2022). Understanding how professionals perceive these challenges and opportunities is crucial for assessing the feasibility and impact of technology integration in the construction industry.

 

This study aims to analyze the professional perception of emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International, focusing on the potential benefits and challenges associated with their implementation.

 

Statement of the Problem

The integration of emerging technologies in building construction offers significant potential benefits but also presents various challenges. At Julius Berger International, understanding the professional perception of these technologies is essential for effective implementation and maximizing their advantages. Key issues include the cost of technology adoption, the need for staff training, and the potential resistance to new methods (Olawale & Sun, 2021). There is a need to assess how these factors impact the company's ability to leverage emerging technologies for improved construction outcomes (Alabi & Oyewole, 2022).

 

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate the professional perception of emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International.

To identify the benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of emerging technologies in the company's construction practices.

To assess the impact of emerging technologies on project efficiency, safety, and overall construction outcomes at Julius Berger International.

 

Research Questions

What is the professional perception of emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International?

What are the perceived benefits and challenges of implementing emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International?

How do emerging technologies impact project efficiency, safety, and overall construction outcomes at Julius Berger International?

 

Research Hypotheses

Professionals at Julius Berger International do not perceive emerging technologies as significantly beneficial for building construction.

The challenges associated with implementing emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International outweigh the benefits.

Emerging technologies do not significantly impact project efficiency, safety, and overall construction outcomes at Julius Berger International.

 

Significance of the Study

The study is significant for various stakeholders, including construction professionals, project managers, and industry policymakers. For professionals at Julius Berger International, the study provides insights into how emerging technologies can be effectively integrated into construction practices and the associated benefits and challenges. For project managers, understanding these perceptions can guide decision-making and technology adoption strategies. Policymakers and industry leaders can use the findings to support initiatives that promote technology adoption and innovation in the construction sector, leading to improved industry standards and practices (Olawale & Sun, 2021).

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study focuses on the professional perception of emerging technologies in building construction at Julius Berger International. It will employ qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys and interviews with construction professionals, to gather data on perceptions, benefits, and challenges. Limitations of the study include potential biases in self-reported data, the specificity of the case study to one company, and the evolving nature of technology which may affect the relevance of findings over time.

 

Definitions of Terms

Emerging Technologies: New and innovative technologies that are currently developing or will be developed over the next few years, impacting various sectors including construction.

Building Information Modeling (BIM): A digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building, used for design, construction, and management purposes.

3D Printing: A manufacturing process that creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on digital models.

Prefabrication: The process of assembling components of a structure in a factory setting before transporting them to the construction site for assembly.

Professional Perception: The attitudes, beliefs, and evaluations held by professionals regarding specific technologies or practices in their field.