In the rapidly evolving landscape of construction, a groundbreaking study has shed new light on the uneven development of Intelligent Construction (IC) across China’s provinces, offering valuable insights for the energy sector and beyond. Led by Yudan Dou, a researcher at the Department of Construction Management, Dalian University of Technology, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of IC development levels and their spatiotemporal evolution, paving the way for more targeted policy-making and strategic investments.
Intelligent Construction, which integrates advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and BIM, is revolutionizing the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. However, the pace of adoption varies significantly across regions, creating a patchwork of progress that can hinder large-scale implementation and collaboration. Dou’s research, published in the Journal of Civil Engineering and Management (translated from the original name), aims to address this disparity by quantifying IC development levels at the provincial scale.
The study employs a multifaceted approach, combining the PEST (Politics-Economy-Society-Technology) analysis model with a unique integration of analytic network process (ANP), entropy weight, and game theory methods. This sophisticated framework allows for a nuanced assessment of IC development, considering a wide range of factors from policy support to technological innovation.
“Our goal was to create a comprehensive measurement system that could capture the complex interplay of factors driving IC development,” Dou explains. “By doing so, we hope to provide a clearer picture of the current landscape and identify areas where targeted interventions could have the most significant impact.”
The results reveal a stark contrast in IC development levels across China, with only Beijing, Shanghai, and Shandong reaching the highest tier. The study also highlights a clear trend of increasing development from northwest to southeast, with policy and technological factors serving as the primary drivers.
For the energy sector, these findings present both challenges and opportunities. As construction projects increasingly incorporate smart technologies, the demand for integrated, intelligent solutions will grow. Companies that can leverage these insights to tailor their offerings to specific regional needs will be well-positioned to capture market share.
Moreover, the study’s identification of spatial agglomeration effects—where IC development in one province can positively influence neighboring regions—offers a roadmap for strategic expansion. Energy companies investing in IC technologies could see compounded benefits as their innovations spread across interconnected provinces.
The research also underscores the importance of policy support in fostering IC development. As governments at various levels seek to promote sustainable and efficient construction practices, the findings can inform more effective policy-making and resource allocation.
Looking ahead, Dou’s work sets the stage for further exploration into the dynamics of IC development. Future studies could delve deeper into the specific technologies and practices driving progress in leading provinces, or examine the role of international collaboration in accelerating IC adoption.
As the construction industry continues to embrace digital transformation, studies like Dou’s will be instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of Intelligent Construction. By providing a clear, data-driven assessment of provincial development levels, the research offers a valuable tool for stakeholders seeking to shape the future of the built environment.
