Purpose Several organisations use the hierarchy of hazard controls as part of their health and safety (H&S) management strategies. The importance of applying hierarchy of hazard controls in managing hazards is known, but no or little evidence exists on the implementation of these controls within South African construction industry. This study aims to explore the application of hierarchy of hazard controls in managing hazards. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative approach where nine interviews were conducted and eight baseline risk assessments (BRAs) were reviewed. Purposive sampling method was adopted and data analysed qualitatively. Findings The results of this study show that hierarchy of hazard controls is not fully applied when controlling hazards. Findings reveal that readily available and easy to implement controls are considered despite their poor effectiveness. Behavioural controls continue to be used more than technological controls, although, these controls are less effective. Findings further reveal that none of the reviewed BRAs included the effectiveness of controls and legal reference. Research limitations/implications Conducting site observations or case studies on specific construction sites could help to better understand the site-based processes followed in implementing H&S controls measures. Additionally, future studies could quantitatively investigate the criteria for determining the effectiveness of controls. The implication is that if BRAs are not done during initiation, feasibility and design stages, then technological controls will continue to be disregarded. The implication of the findings is that accident prevention is likely if construction organisations apply hierarchy of hazard controls when implementing H&S control measures. Originality/value This study adds value to construction organisations and professionals understanding of applying hierarchy of hazard controls when managing hazards. Hierarchy of hazard controls should be promoted as a method for determining the effectiveness of control implemented and BRA should make provision for verifying application of hierarchy of hazard control theory.
Purpose The purpose of this study is to holistically review the academic position regarding the space management practice and use academic foresight to derive consolidated foundations to future research. Design/methodology/approach A scoping review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items and Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis methodology and a qualitative content analysis. Findings In total, 83 articles are reviewed, and the findings are structured under three charted categories. The first category regarding space management definition and scope highlights that while a conceptual scope is understood, its efforts seem curtailed. The second category regarding organisational context broadly outlines two research lenses: a quest for organisational improvement or a highlight of social constructs. The third category regarding technology use points out that a more extensive use of technology comes with a level of complexity that may become stifling. Given the shortcomings identified, a process-driven redefinition of space management is proposed to bring logic to its scope, direction to a multidimensional research agenda and to adjust the outcomes pursued. It also provides more clarity for technological innovations. Finally, a research roadmap is proposed to further space management governance, technology, practice and methodology. Research limitations/implications This study provides more clarity to practitioners, technology developers and institutional bodies involved in the space management of buildings. Originality/value The focus is on the practice of managing spaces using a lens rooted in stakeholder theory to capture a more multifaceted view of its measurable and intangible contributions to workplaces.
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to systematically identify, expand and validate the critical success factors for building maintenance (CSFBM) that govern the performance of public housing, addressing critical gaps in existing theoretical frameworks. Design/methodology/approach A two-stage sequential exploratory design was used in this study. Initially, a systematic literature review using the PRISMA protocol analysed 35 articles to establish a theoretical baseline of relevant factors. This was followed by a three-round Delphi technique with industry experts to contextualise, expand and validate these indicators. The process concluded with the application of a Relative Importance Index (RII) to prioritise the findings. Findings The Delphi process produced a practice-validated framework consisting of 49 CSFBMs, organised into eight subthemes: human resource, financial, physical building, organisational, technical, statutory requirements, facility management and building user factors. Although human and financial capital were identified as the most critical, expert consensus highlighted the significance of physical asset degradation and strict legislative compliance, which had previously been underrepresented in operational considerations. Originality/value This study examines the gap between general maintenance theory and public housing practice by validating a comprehensive CSFBM framework. The prioritised factors highlight the significance of coordinated governance and budget optimisation. Additionally, this research extends existing five-factor maintenance models by identifying and empirically validating three additional categories critical to the public housing sector: statutory requirements, facility management and physical building-related factors. The resulting RII-ranked framework supports policymakers and facility managers in allocating limited maintenance budgets more strategically, based on expert validation.
PurposeThis study seeks to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and facility management (FM) practice by identifying dominant research clusters, examining thematic evolution and revealing opportunities for sustainable and intelligent facility operations. Specifically, it addresses how generative models including large language models, generative adversarial networks and explainable AI are reshaping FM workflows and decision-making processes. Design/methodology/approach FM research is witnessing increasing attention toward generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), yet current studies remain fragmented and lack a systematic understanding of how these technologies are being integrated into FM research and practice. This study aims to systematically map and analyze the thematic evolution of GenAI applications in FM using structural topic modeling (STM) combined with qualitative synthesis. STM was used to identify latent themes and track their temporal evolution, supported by descriptive trend analysis. Manual triangulation and qualitative synthesis were conducted to validate topic labels and interpret emerging research trajectories, technological applications and integration pathways across FM contexts. FindingsFive thematic clusters were identified: (1) GenAI for visual and spatial applications in built environments, (2) industrial GenAI for sustainability optimization, (3) predictive maintenance with explainable and generative AI, (4) smart buildings for energy and comfort optimization and (5) natural language processing for FM automation. OriginalityTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper offers one of the first STM-based systematic reviews of GenAI in FM. The findings provide a replicable, data-driven framework and a practical roadmap for integrating GenAI-driven automation into FM processes, contributing to the theoretical and operational advancement of AI-enabled facility ecosystems.
PurposeThe transition from corporate social responsibility to environmental, social and governance (ESG) has brought realised benefits to businesses, including increased investor favourability, increased financial performance and enhanced brand image. Unearthing the barriers, drivers and key interested stakeholders of ESG reporting in public–private partnership (PPP) project is crucial for improving the ESG outlook of a project. While research studies have identified a range of barriers, other works have identified how these can be addressed. This study aims to uncover the critical barriers and drivers of ESG reporting and explores how they can be turned into facilitators. Design/methodology/approachThis study meta-analysed and synthesised empirical studies by undertaking a systematic review. FindingsSeven main barriers, six drivers and interested parties of ESG reporting of PPP projects have been identified. Significant barriers to ESG reporting of PPP project includes insufficient understanding of ESG benefits, lack of standardised reporting frameworks and the cost involved in ESG reporting. Also, key drivers for ESG reporting comprise of regulatory disclosure demands and improved project performance. Addressing these barriers and leveraging the drivers is crucial for the successful integration of ESG reporting within PPP projects for enhanced sustainability performance and long-term project success. PPP projects encompass a diverse group of stakeholders each with a vested interest in the sustainability and governance outcomes of a project. These groups form a complex network of interests that drive the need for transparent and robust ESG reporting. Originality/valueThis study unearths significant barriers and drivers to ESG reporting in PPP projects providing the significant motivators to ESG reporting uptake and critical challenges. The findings of this study advocate for policies that factor the importance of ESG reporting, thereby enhancing PPPs commitment to sustainable practices.
PurposeIn a dynamic, project-based environment, lean operations (LO) offer efficient project delivery for facility management (FM). Despite challenges, many professionals aim to adopt LO techniques. To address these challenges, this study aims to explore the barriers to implementing LO in FM.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive literature review was initially carried out to identify the barriers to LO. Then, a survey is developed to gather professional expertise, and these barriers are assessed using the relative importance index and exploratory factor analysis to identify their impact on lean implementation.FindingsThe study findings indicate that lack of lean knowledge, training and technical skills among key stakeholders are primary barriers to LO in FM. Furthermore, the study's findings suggest that top management, as well as onsite managers and other stakeholders, should prioritize the implementation of LC practices. Based on these findings, a framework is proposed that highlights the common barriers to LO and their impact on key project performance measures.Originality/valueThis study explores the differing perspectives of contractors, consultants and clients regarding the barriers to implementing LO in FM within developing economies. The outcome of this study can assist researchers and FM practitioners in focusing their attention and resources on the important difficulties that must be overcome for LO to be implemented in practice. The paper should be of interest to researchers and practitioners in the area of quality and lean project management.
Purpose Effective space management reduces operational costs and supports organisational agility. However, empirical research from emerging economies, particularly Tanzania's telecommunications sector, remains limited. This study aims to examine how space management practices, work arrangements and building characteristics influence space utilisation in Tanzanian telecom companies. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods design was used across three telecom firms (Vodacom, TTCL, Halotel). Quantitative survey data were collected from 302 employees (88% response rate) and analysed using hierarchical regression. Qualitative data comprised semi-structured interviews with nine facilities managers (4-15 years' experience,), 45 h of direct observation per company and document analysis. Findings Space management practices were significantly positively associated with utilisation (ss = 0.85, p = 0.034). Rigid work practices showed a significant negative association (ss = -1.095, p < 0.001). Physical characteristics were not statistically significant (p = 0.300). Vodacom's flexible practices achieved 80% utilisation compared to 64%-65% at firms with traditional layouts. Qualitative themes of rigidity, flexibility benefits and physical constraints contextualised these patterns. Originality/value This study provides sector-specific evidence from sub-Saharan Africa, integrating the resource-based view and transaction cost economics to explain space utilisation. It reveals tensions between quantitative and qualitative findings, suggesting physical characteristics may operate as threshold factors contingent on management practices.
Purpose Building defects impact aesthetics, sustainability, functionality, conditions, performance, user satisfaction and safety in facilities. Despite an extensive catalogue of building defects, defects continue to increase unabated. Managing these defects is often tedious, costly, problematic and time-consuming, requiring significant resources from both the maintenance organizations, clients and stakeholders. This study aims to leverage machine learning to classify and predict defects in buildings. Design/methodology/approach A data set of 300 images, covering defects in four building components, was used to train the model for defect classification through machine learning. Four ensemble algorithms were trained for the predictive models. Findings The stacked model outperformed other learners in predicting defects across diverse data sets. Gradient Boosting achieved an accuracy of 76%, AUC of 92%, precision of 0.78, recall of 0.76 and F1-score of 0.75. The stacked model excelled with an accuracy of 83%, AUC of 94%, precision of 0.83, recall of 0.83, Matthews correlation coefficient of 0.75 and F1-score of 0.83, particularly in classifying defects in walls and columns. Originality/value These findings have theoretical and practical implications for real estate management research. This study contributes to building maintenance management knowledge by introducing a novel ensemble learning framework for robust defect prediction.
Purpose The potential of green technologies to reduce the adverse environmental consequences of construction activities and promote sustainable development has attracted significant attention worldwide. Therefore, this study aims to examine homeowners’ willingness to adopt (WTA) green technologies, as well as the conditions that influence their decision to incorporate the technologies into residential housing development. Design/methodology/approach A sequential mix method approach was adopted to achieve the aim of the study. A survey was conducted by adopting a simple random sampling approach in selecting 156 respondents within the study area, whereas interviews were conducted with interviewees using the purposive sampling approach. The quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and content analysis, respectively. Findings The most significant green technologies that homeowners are willing to adopt include materials that can be recycled; the installation of water efficient appliances; adoption of groundwater harvesting, and integrative use of skylight to provide natural lighting. Furthermore, the results show that homeowners are willing to adopt green technologies if they improve their homes’ energy and water efficiency. The inferential statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant difference across the three communities with respect to their willingness to adopt majority of green technologies. The regression analysis revealed that both high- and low-income earners are willing to adopt green technologies that fall under the purview of materials and resources. Originality/value The results will provide a valuable reference for helping policymakers and practitioners take suitable measures in mainstreaming green technologies into residential facilities and consequently promote its adoption.
Purpose There is a rising concern about climate change and its impacts on the physical products of the construction industry. Studies concerning mitigating the impact of climate change on construction-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) projects using a soft systems methodology (SSM) framework are scarce. This study aimed to investigate the root causes of climate change and developed an SSM-based framework to mitigate the negative impacts on construction-related SDG projects in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approach This research used a SSM to understand the impact of climate change on Nigeria's construction-related SDG projects, using a developed framework. The researchers conducted 40 face-to-face interviews with experts aligned with the SSM stages. The researchers manually analysed the collected data and presented the results.Findings This study shows that, besides the signs of climate change's negative impacts and the absence of an institutional framework, particularly during the rainy season, it threatens value-driven construction-SDGs projects. The research findings developed a framework to improve the carbon neutrality of construction-related SDG projects, enhance risk management associated with climate change, enhance infrastructure system resilience and sustainability, and improve general operations, thereby improving construction-related SDG projects.Originality/value As part of the research's implications, this study proposed measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change on construction-related SDG projects. Findings will also encourage stakeholders to consider relevant mechanisms to meet construction-related SDG project requirements and ensure satisfaction, thereby enhancing productivity and excellence.
Purpose The construction industry is shifting towards modular construction to enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness and sustainability. However, procurement strategies play a critical role in determining project success. This study aims to evaluate different procurement strategies suitable for modular construction and examine their influence on project outcomes, addressing existing gaps in stakeholder perspectives.Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered through elite virtual interviews with stakeholders across the modular construction sector. The interviewees included professionals with expertise in procurement, construction management and modular building systems. A thematic analysis was conducted to synthesise the insights from the interviews and secondary data sources.Findings The study identified various procurement strategies applicable to modular construction, including design and build, construction management, turnkey, cost-plus, public-private partnership (PPP) and joint venture. Findings suggest that procurement strategy selection significantly influences modular projects' cost, time, quality and risk management. Key barriers include fragmented supply chains, regulatory challenges, limited stakeholder collaboration and insufficient procurement standardisation. The study recommends integrated supply chain models, policy reforms, digital procurement tools and enhanced stakeholder engagement to enhance procurement efficiency.Research limitations/implications The study is limited to perceived procurement strategies in modular construction and influences on project outcomes based on semi-structured virtual interviews. Future research should further validate the findings through empirical case studies and quantitative assessments of procurement performance in modular construction projects.Originality/value This research examines how procurement practices affect stakeholder satisfaction, teamwork and long-term modular construction project success, unlike typical cost and time efficiency studies.
Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of social governance and sustainability practices, in conjunction with technical maintenance services, on users' perceptions of indoor comfort within university campuses. By addressing the underexplored relationship between social sustainability and user experience, the research seeks to provide evidence-based insights for sustainable campus facility management. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 221 academic and administrative staff members at Ankara University's Besevler Campus. Data were collected using a 24-item, five-point Likert-scale questionnaire. The study used Anderson and Gerbing's (1988) two-step structural modelling approach. In the first stage, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to validate the measurement model; in the second stage, hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the structural relationships among variables. Findings The results revealed a three-factor structure for campus facility management evaluations: indoor comfort (F1, a = 0.87), social governance and sustainability (F2, a = 0.80) and technical maintenance services (F3, a = 0.71). The social governance factor (beta = 0.334, p < 0.001) exerted a stronger influence on comfort perception than the technical maintenance factor (ss = 0.275, p < 0.001), explaining 25.9% of the total variance (R & sup2; = 0.259). Moreover, social governance practices provided a statistically significant incremental contribution of 10.6% beyond technical maintenance (Delta R & sup2; = 0.106, p < 0.001). Critical deficiencies were identified in parking (M = 2.01), recycling (M = 2.40) and bicycle infrastructure (M = 2.60). Originality/value This study empirically demonstrates that sustainable campuses cannot be achieved solely through technical efficiency but require socially inclusive governance mechanisms, user participation and environmental awareness initiatives. By quantifying the contribution of social governance practices to perceived comfort, the research expands the traditional, technically oriented facility management perspective towards a more holistic social sustainability framework and proposes 15 evidence-based strategic, tactical and operational recommendations for campus facility managers.
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to reduce energy consumption in an operating United Arab Emirates (UAE) based governmental organization buildings utilizing DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) cycle. Design/methodology/approach Applying DMAIC cycle on a case study of a government organization in the UAE was used to validate the process. Findings The outputs showed that using cool paint will save around 238,000 kWh/year with a payback period of 0.09 year. Furthermore, by combining two technology, cool paint and a smart occupancy sensor, the amount of total energy saved will be 339,100 kWh/year this is equivalent to saving 240,314 kg of carbon dioxide (CO2). The cost benefit is saving 111,120 AED/year this equal to 15% of the yearly bill. Research limitations/implications The study suffers from the reliance of specific and limited literature which has a different building typology most of which, never implemented DMAIC. Moreover, the data used in the research only considered total energy consumption therefore allowing for some assumption bias regarding specific loads. Practical implications The research investigates government building in one emirate in the UAE to save energy by applying Six Sigma DMAIC methodology thus providing a unique context of application to the existing body of literature. Furthermore, the research contributes to Economic consideration since reducing energy consumption for a building is a financial investment in a capital asset meanwhile proving useful for future implementation. Originality/value The research further proved the significant benefits of applying DMAIC/Lean Six Sigma methodology in reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, utilizing UAE based governmental building as technical case study which is rare given the rules surrounding UAE public sector.
Purpose - This study aims to investigate how smart housing facility (SHF) integration influences student residential satisfaction (SRS) in public universities in Iraq. It further explores the moderating role of student resilience in this relationship, providing empirical insight for designing resilient, tech-integrated student housing in post-conflict higher education systems. Design/methodology/approach - A structured questionnaire was distributed to 478 students residing in on-campus housing at three Iraqi public universities. SHF, SRS and resilience were measured using validated scales. Data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling to test direct and moderated effects. Findings - The results show that SHF integration has a significant positive impact on SRS (beta = 0.64, p < 0.001). Resilience significantly moderates this relationship (beta = 0.21, p < 0.01), indicating that students with higher resilience experience greater SRS from SHF. The SRS index scored a mean of 3.61 out of 5, indicating a generally high level of SRS among respondents. Practical implications - The study provides facility managers and university housing departments with actionable evidence of the importance of integrating smart technologies and supporting student resilience. Improved SHF design, coupled with resilience training programmes, may boost SRS, retention and institutional reputation. Originality/value - This research extends the SRS literature by combining facility innovation (SHF) with student-centred psychological factors (resilience) in a post-conflict context. It offers a novel model relevant to universities across developing regions aiming to modernise their campus facilities.
Purpose This study aims to examine the role of perceived value as a mediating factor between innovation characteristics and Internet of Things (IoT) adoption intention in facility management services. Specifically, it investigates how the characteristics of innovation outlined in Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) Theory influence customers' perceived value of SmartClean IoT solutions and their adoption intentions.Design/methodology/approach This study uses a quantitative method by analyzing survey responses from Indonesian facility management service customers. The research model combines DOI characteristics (relative advantage, compatibility and complexity) with perceived value serving as a mediator. The study uses structural equation modeling to examine the proposed relationships between variables, using data gathered through a detailed customer survey.Findings Initial surveys indicate a significant gap between awareness and adoption of IoT solutions in facility management, with 72.5% of customers familiar with IoT concepts but only 47.5% aware of SmartClean IoT solutions, and among those aware, only 42.1% have adopted the technology. The study reveals that compatibility has the strongest positive influence on perceived value (beta = 0.465; t-statistic = 8.035), followed by relative advantage (ss = 0.353; t-statistic = 5.775), while Complexity shows a significant negative influence (beta = -0.442; t-statistic = 7.076). Perceived value strongly influences intention to adopt (ss = 0.555; t-statistic = 10.317). The model explains 53.8% of the variance in perceived value and 30.8% of the variance in intention to adopt, with Perceived Value successfully mediating all relationships between DOI characteristics and adoption intention.Research limitations/implications This study focuses on a single facility management service provider in Indonesia, which may limit the generalizability of findings to other contexts. Additionally, as IoT technology rapidly evolves, the findings represent a snapshot in time and may need periodic updates to remain relevant. From a theoretical perspective, the study demonstrates the importance of considering perceived value as a mediating factor in technology adoption models, suggesting that future research should explore this relationship in other technological contexts and industries.Originality/value This study contributes to IS literature by providing the first empirical investigation of IoT adoption in Indonesia's facility management sector, integrating DOI and VAM to reveal how innovation characteristics influence perceived value, which fully mediates adoption intentions, and offering actionable insights for IoT vendors and policymakers targeting service-intensive industries in emerging economies.
PurposeThe purpose of this study is to further investigate mobile maintenance management systems in decentralised organisations with branches nationwide. Recent studies regarding mobile maintenance management systems focus on an organisation's specific industries, processes and technologies rather than decentralised organisations.Design/methodology/approachUsing real data from Israeli health-care clinics' information systems, the authors examined the effect of implementing real-time mobile maintenance management systems on preventive and corrective service calls. The study involved a systematic quantitative data analysis, with a cross-sectional investigation exploring preventive and corrective maintenance activities involving eight types of repairs.FindingsA gamma analysis demonstrated that after implementing the new system, there was a significant drop in the time required for numerous maintenance activities. Poisson analysis indicated that the users used the new system, as shown by the increased number of service calls. Embracing the new system strongly affected both the maintenance time and extent of use of the system, particularly in three repair categories: (1) carpentry and frames; (2) electrical issues; and (3) sanitation.Practical implicationsThe findings demonstrate positive operational results by reducing the time to close service calls when using a digital maintenance system tailored to the organisation's needs and types of maintenance and repairs. Implementing the software can help managers in decentralised organisations effectively address maintenance challenges.Originality/valueThis study addresses a gap in the literature by exploring the role of mobile maintenance management systems in decentralised health-care organisations. It highlights the value of such systems in improving maintenance processes and supporting geographically scattered clinics.
PurposeArtificial intelligence (AI) is attracting attention across major global sectors, including construction, due to its relevance. Studies showed that AI can significantly improve construction project performance. AI may improve sustainable construction projects in this technological era. However, there is a paucity of studies on the possible challenges stakeholders in a developing economy like Nigeria face in embracing AI applications to improve project social and environmental performance. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the perceived hindrances facing Nigerian stakeholders in using AI to improve sustainable construction projects.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers conducted a virtual interview in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria, to investigate the issues. This study engaged 24 knowledgeable participants in AI and sustainable construction projects and achieved saturation at the 21st participant. The researchers analysed the collected data using a thematic method.FindingsDespite AI's numerous roles in achieving sustainable construction projects, its use is not encouraging in Nigeria. Also, the findings suggested measures to improve the achievement of sustainable construction projects by embracing AI. This includes government support in all its ramifications, an enabling environment, government collaboration with construction contracting and manufacturing firms, construction practitioners focusing on improving project performance and investing in research to foster local innovation.Originality/valueThis study is intended to spur policymakers and construction practitioners, including construction manufacturing firms, to appreciate the significance of AI in the industry and embrace it, given its long-term benefits to them and the environment.
Purpose- This study aims to assess how the current infrastructure of Songkhla City Hospital influences patient satisfaction and health outcomes. Rather than examining modernisation efforts, this research evaluates existing infrastructural conditions to identify which elements enhance or hinder healthcare experiences, thereby providing evidence-based recommendations for improvement. Design/methodology/approach- Grounded in Donabedian's structure-process-outcome model, the study uses a quantitative approach using survey data from 332 hospital visitors. Partial least squares structural equation modelling, multigroup analysis and measurement invariance of composite models were used to study the relationships among hospital infrastructure, perceived service quality, patient satisfaction and health outcomes. Findings- Hospital infrastructure significantly influenced both patient satisfaction (beta = 0.73, p < 0.001) and perceived service quality (beta = 0.74, p < 0.001). Although the direct effect on health outcomes was marginal (beta = 0.14, p = 0.08), indirect effects via satisfaction (beta = 0.27, p < 0.001) and service quality (beta = 0.22, p < 0.001) were substantial. The model demonstrated strong explanatory power (R & sup2; = 0.57 for health outcomes), with consistent results across gender groups. These findings underscore the importance of experiential mediators in translating infrastructural investments into improved patient-reported outcomes. Practical implications- This study identifies key areas within the current infrastructure that require redesign or improvement to enhance service delivery and patient well-being. Insights can support hospital management and policymakers in prioritising targeted upgrades. Originality/value- This research makes a significant contribution by empirically assessing the performance of existing hospital infrastructure and providing a structured framework for improvement in resource-constrained healthcare settings.
PurposeDigital twin (DT) technology holds significant promise for transforming facility management (FM) by enabling real-time asset monitoring, early fault detection and data-driven decision-making for predictive maintenance (PdM). While PdM uses historical and real-time data to anticipate equipment failures, DT offers dynamic virtual replicas of physical assets for continuous performance optimization. This study aims to examine the integration of DT and building information modeling to support PdM in building facilities, aiming to address inefficiencies inherent in traditional reactive maintenance approaches. The research explores key questions around the main challenges and benefits of deploying DT for PdM, the effectiveness of DT in enhancing FM processes and sustainability and the critical components needed for a practical DT implementation strategy.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach was adopted, combining a systematic literature review with semistructured interviews with industry professionals. Thematic analysis was used to synthesize the results.FindingsThe results demonstrate DT's potential to improve maintenance through enhanced decision-making, greater operational efficiency and stronger predictive capabilities. However, significant challenges were identified, including high implementation costs, data integration challenges, lack of standardization, organizational resistance and skill gaps. The findings highlight the significance of aligning people, processes and technology to enhance the impact of DT.Practical implicationsThe research offers actionable insights for facility managers and policymakers aiming to implement DT-driven PdM, ultimately supporting the development of smarter and more sustainable built environments.Originality/valueThis study proposes a structured strategy comprising seven key elements to facilitate DT adoption in FM: (1) needs assessment, (2) incremental deployment, (3) structured data management, (4) seamless system integration, (5) organizational anchoring, (6) standardization protocols and (7) a long-term vision.
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to carry out an exploratory investigation into the potential challenges to digital transformation for facilities management (FM).Design/methodology/approachThe approach entails an exploratory study on the challenges in digital transformation in FM in Saudi Arabia. The study identified 25 challenges through the extant literature and consultations with industry professionals practicing in the FM sector in Saudi Arabia. Statistical analysis includes descriptive statistics and an exploratory factor analysis (EFA).Findings EFA yielded seven dominant factors that together account for 51.1% of the variance, including digital culture and technology, enterprise resource planning, market uncertainties, benefits and compensation, digital infrastructure, cost of implementation and job security. The descriptive statistics also revealed that respondents considered the most important challenges to be insufficient budget for implementation, unavailable research and development and lack of commitment from leadership.Originality/valueThis paper emphasizes the importance of digital transformation in the facility management industry to stay relevant in the digital economy. The paper highlights the various challenges responsible for unsuccessful digital transformation in FM. This study advances our knowledge of the key challenges to digital transformation in the FM industry and is of potential value to stakeholders in the domain of digital transformation, as well as practitioners and researchers in FM.
