Buildings contribute approximately 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, necessitating urgent action toward net-zero construction through Nature-based Solutions (NbS). While NbS have been studied individually, a systematic synthesis of how they integrate with sustainable materials for decarbonisation remains limited. This bibliometric review synthesises emerging trends in NbS and sustainable materials for net-zero construction, addressing a critical knowledge gap in the field. Using structured database analysis, 30 peer-reviewed studies were systematically retrieved and analysed through cluster analysis to identify thematic patterns and research trajectories. Five key research themes emerged: (1) Innovative Strategies for Decarbonisation and Circular Economy, (2) Sustainable Building Materials and Carbon Management, (3) Energy Efficiency and Decision-Making in Sustainable Architectural Design, (4) Zero-Carbon Strategies in Construction and Housing, and (5) Embodied Carbon and Sustainability in Construction Supply Chains. The analysis reveals that NbS significantly reduce carbon emissions, optimises supply chains, and enhances energy efficiency in building systems. However, critical gaps persist in integrating life-cycle analysis with nature-based materials and in addressing regional adoption disparities. This bibliometric approach provides a quantitative foundation for identifying research priorities and policy implications in sustainable construction, offering insights to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers working toward environmentally conscious building practices. Keywords: Energy-Efficient Buildings, Nature-based Solutions (NbS), Net-Zero Construction, Sustainable Construction, Zero-carbon materials.
This study fills a critical gap in behavioral science by exploring the mediating role of project management training (PMT) in the relationship between job satisfaction (JS) and project management performance (PMP) within Nigeria’s construction industry a context rarely examined in prior research. Using a non-probabilistic sample of 250 professionals, with 208 valid responses, data were analyzed through structural equation modeling to test both direct and indirect effects. Results show that JS has a significant positive effect on PMP (β = 0.250; p = 0.003), while PMT strongly predicts PMP (β = 0.833; p = 0.000). Indirect effects analysis confirms that PMT partially mediates the JS–PMP relationship (β = 0.295; p = 0.000), meaning job satisfaction still enhances performance even when training is accounted for. This mediating role represents the study’s key novelty, demonstrating that training amplifies but does not replace the influence of employee satisfaction on project outcomes. The findings emphasize that improving job satisfaction alone is insufficient for optimal project results. Targeted PMT equips workers to manage complex construction demands, boosting engagement and overall performance. Practically, the study provides actionable insights for managers and policymakers: integrating structured training programs with initiatives to enhance job satisfaction is essential for stronger project delivery and sustainable development within Nigeria’s construction sector. Keywords: Project management training, job satisfaction, project management performance, construction industry.
This study investigates the readiness of facilities management organisations (FMOs) for adopting Building Information Modelling (BIM). Data was collected from a sample of 51 facilities management practitioners in South Africa, drawn from a target population of 209 registered professionals. The Technology Readiness Index (TRI) was applied to measure levels of optimism, innovativeness, discomfort, and insecurity towards BIM. Results show a medium readiness level (TRI score of 3.15), with high optimism and innovativeness offset by significant insecurity and discomfort barriers. Key external challenges include frequent power failures, limited owner interest, and prioritisation of initial capital costs. Based on these findings, an implementation framework is developed, consisting of a four-phase structured approach: awareness, pilot, scale, and institutionalisation. This approach is specifically designed to leverage the high Optimism and Innovativeness found while systematically mitigating the core barriers of Discomfort and Insecurity identified by the TRI assessment. The resulting implementation plan outlines strategies to overcome organisational barriers and strengthen contractual provisions for BIM integration. This research provides both an empirical diagnosis of BIM readiness and a structured roadmap for systematic adoption in the South African context. Keywords: Building Information Modelling, Facilities Management, Technology Readiness, Digital Transformation, South Africa.
Welcome to Issue 2 of Volume 8 of the Journal of Construction Business and Management. This issue brings together five papers that address important concerns in the practice of construction business and project management. The papers focus on project management performance, business survival, net-zero construction, digital transformation, and supply chain management. The studies show that construction performance depends on people, organisations, technology, finance, sustainability, and governance. They also show the need for practical strategies that can help construction organisations improve delivery, manage uncertainty, and respond to changing economic and environmental conditions. The articles in this issue were contributed by 20 authors from Nigeria, South Africa, and China. The studies are primarily set in sub-Saharan Africa construction contexts, proposing useful lessons for other emerging markets facing similar challenges.
Economic contraction is inevitable in any business lifetime and often hinders it from achieving the desired objectives. The need to adopt proven survival strategies is essential to survive the adverse effects of economic downturn in most developing countries. Of the construction-related organizations, quantity surveying consultancy organizations often suffer the highest effect of economic turbulence because they are majorly classified as micro-sized or small-sized firms. In developing countries however, firms in these classifications are the livewire of the construction industry. Hence, the need to assess the strategies for surviving economic turbulence with a view to prioritizing the strategies to be adopted for enhancing the continual service delivery of quantity surveying consultancy organizations. To achieve this study’s goal, quantitative research approach was adopted and through the questionnaire-survey, data was obtained from top management or principal partners of 99 quantity surveying consultancy organizations in South-western, Nigeria. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics including mean score, standard deviation, Kruskal Wallis test, Mann Whitney test, reliability test, normality test, and factor analysis. Horn parallel analysis was further conducted to determine the appropriate factors from the principal component analysis generated from the factor analysis. Based on the results of the analysis, the prioritized strategies for surviving economic turmoil include ‘organizational development and innovation’, ‘merger and partnership’, and ‘business and marketing strategies’. The need for embracing innovation in service delivery of quantity surveying firms, engaging competent management head for appropriate decision-making are recommended. Keywords: construction organizations, economic turbulence, firm survival, Nigeria, quantity surveying, strategies.
Supply Chain Management (SCM) plays a critical role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of project management across various industries. This paper explores the effectiveness of SCM on project management outcomes in local municipalities, focusing on key performance indicators such as cost reduction, time management, risk mitigation, and quality control. Effective SCM integration within project management frameworks minimizes delays, optimizes resource allocation, and improves overall project performance. This paper also examines case studies where efficient SCM has led to successful project completion and identifies challenges such as supply chain disruptions, vendor management issues, and compliance risks. The study employed a quantitative research design, targeting all professionals engaged in project management and supply chain management within the Thembisile Hani Local Municipality. Data collection considered factors such as organizational size, geographic location, and historical project performance. A stratified random sampling technique was used to ensure proportional representation across various professional categories, resulting in a sample of 56 participants for statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to summarize the data, while inferential analysis was conducted using Spearman’s correlation to examine significant relationships between the constructs measured. The findings suggest that companies that prioritize robust SCM practices achieve better project outcomes in terms of cost efficiency, quality assurance, and stakeholder satisfaction. Additionally, integrating SCM principles into project management enhances operational efficiency and resilience, making it a vital component for achieving strategic project goals. The research highlights how the SCM strategies, such as just-in-time (JIT) delivery, and risk mitigation contribute to enhanced project execution. By streamlining supply chain processes, organizations can mitigate uncertainties, minimize waste, and improve collaboration among stakeholders. Future research should explore advanced digital technologies and sustainable SCM practices to further optimize project success. Keywords: supply chain management, project management, key performance indicators, resource allocation, quality.
Environmental challenges associated with the use of traditional construction materials are widespread in Zimbabwe. Despite the availability of sustainable construction materials, the failure to adopt the Model Buildings by-law of 1977 has stalled the promotion of strategic interventions. Hence, the study identified pertinent modifications to the Model building by-laws that could enable the utilisation of sustainable construction materials—the interpretivist philosophy employed semi-structured online interviews. Purposive sampling was used to solicit views from sixteen (16) construction professionals, academics, and relevant local government officials with experience in sustainable construction. The generation of modern by-laws with relevant, sustainable material specifications, design-related modifications, and the adoption of green building principles or methodologies were the major themes identified. A comprehensive stakeholder engagement was recommended to ensure that any modifications are practical and implementable. Using sustainable construction materials requires a policy intervention incorporating a comprehensive stakeholder support framework from manufacture to material disposal. The paper highlights the necessary changes to the model-building by-laws (MBBLs) to integrate sustainable construction material utilisation in Zimbabwe. This is valuable to all stakeholders in the construction industry as it aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals of climate action and responsible production and consumption. The main limitation was the exclusive use of a key-informant qualitative design rather than end users. However, the exploratory nature of the study supported the approach. Keywords: Building regulations, Model building by-laws, Sustainable construction materials, Zimbabwe.
The construction industry faces significant workplace safety-related challenges, with developing countries experiencing disproportionately high accident rates. While Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies show individual promise for safety enhancement, their integrated application remains underexplored in developing contexts. This study employs a mixed-method approach combining systematic literature review with quantitative survey validation to investigate BIM-IoT integration advantages for construction safety in South Africa. The literature review analyzed peer-reviewed articles published between 2010-2025, while the empirical phase surveyed construction professionals from CIDB-registered companies. Data analysis utilized exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis to validate identified advantages. The systematic review identified fifteen key advantages, with "improved safety monitoring" as the most cited advantage, followed by "real-time decision-making" and "hazard identification". Quantitative validation confirmed strong literature-practice alignment, with the same three advantages ranking highest among practitioners (mean scores 4.28, 4.22, and 4.19 respectively), confirming universal applicability of core advantages. Statistical analysis revealed five underlying dimensions: Real-time Monitoring & Control, Safety Planning & Design, Training & Communication, Investigation & Reporting, and Compliance & Economics. All factors demonstrated excellent reliability. Context-specific insights revealed that South African professionals prioritize regulatory compliance and cost considerations more than global literature suggests, while design-phase hazard elimination ranked lowest despite theoretical recognition. Despite moderate technology familiarity, significant implementation gaps exist, indicating substantial opportunities for safety improvement. This research provides comprehensive quantitative validation of BIM-IoT safety advantages in a developing country context, offering evidence-based priorities for technology adoption and policy development. Keywords: Advantages, BIM-IoT, Integration, Construction Safety, South Africa
This study evaluates the impact of Emergency Response Systems (ERS) on infrastructure resilience in the Ashanti Region of Ghana using a quantitative research approach. A questionnaire survey was administered to 225 professionals, including facility managers, engineers, architects, building inspectors, and NADMO officials, yielding 159 valid responses. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, such as means and standard deviations, and exploratory factor analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling.The findings indicate that both technical and non-technical ERSs significantly affect infrastructure resilience, with nine technical and seven non-technical ERSs receiving high performance ratings. Economic factors, such as property damage, and socio-political issues, including low wages, were closely linked to ERS effectiveness. Key challenges identified included inadequate consideration of cultural factors, limited institutional capacity, and insufficient funding. These challenges were strongly influenced by technical (β = 0.223, p < 0.05) and non-technical (β = 0.462, p < 0.05) ERS elements. Consequently, these limitations affected economic (β = 0.195, p < 0.05) and socio-political (β = 0.325, p < 0.05) outcomes, highlighting the interdependence between ERS components and broader systemic resilience. In practice, the study emphasises the need for integrated ERS planning within broader institutional, legal, and socio-economic systems by government agencies and facility managers. It advocates for targeted technological investments, legal frameworks, community education, and long-term risk management strategies. This study presents a novel interdisciplinary framework that integrates engineering and policy perspectives. Its originality lies in the comprehensive assessment of both technical and non-technical ERS components, offering valuable insights for strengthening infrastructure resilience in developing contexts. Keywords: Emergency response, Disaster, Facilities, Infrastructure resilience, Natural hazard.
This research explores the adoption patterns and the key factors affecting the adoption of innovative sustainable building materials in housing construction across socio-economic contexts in Cape Town, South Africa. A mixed-methods approach was used in collecting data using semi-structured interviews and the survey questionnaires randomly distributed to Cape Town residents and purposively selected professionals working in the housing construction projects. The data collected was analysed using descriptive, thematic, and inferential statistical technics. The study found that most respondents from both classes were aware of sustainable building technology and materials and perceived that environmentally friendly building materials lessen the impact of construction on the environment. The majority of low-class respondents lack access to resources such as government assistance and financial resources compared to middle- and high-class respondents. Both groups utilize recycled materials more often than not. No significant difference was found in the main variables influencing respondents’ choices regarding the use of sustainable building materials across the middle-high-class and lower-class groups. In South Africa, the adoption of sustainable building practices is impeded by socio-economic constraints, technological limitations, economic barriers, and insufficient awareness. This study advances knowledge of the how economic circumstances affect at different levels the use of sustainable building materials and technology in housing construction. The study recommends that governments and financial institutions creates initiatives in the form of trainings and financial incentives to equip stakeholders with the necessary information to improve the likelihood of adopting sustainable practices. Keywords: Environmental impact, Housing, Income level, Sustainable building technologies, South Africa.
The aim of this study is to examine the barriers to the adoption of emerging technologies for quality management in construction projects. A questionnaire was designed to examine the barriers to the adoption of emerging technologies for quality management in construction projects. Questionnaires were distributed, and 127 valid responses were elicited. Thereafter, data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study was limited to barriers to the adoption of emerging technologies in construction quality management in Nigeria utilising a quantitative research method. The study’s findings can serve as a model for tackling similar barriers in other countries in the global south. The results of the exploratory factor analysis reveal that the critical barriers to emerging technologies in construction quality management in the Nigerian construction industry can be grouped into three principal components: institutional and regulatory, organisational, and technology and industry collaboration barriers. Understanding these findings offers a roadmap for accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies in construction quality management, leading to improved productivity, reduced rework, enhanced compliance, and sustainable industry growth. Keywords: Adoption, Barriers, Construction projects, Emerging technologies, Quality management.
There is an acute electricity shortage in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), and electricity blackouts are common. Climate change and carbon dioxide gas emissions from conventional power-generating systems are also of great concern. Africa has vast renewable energy resources, including hydropower, solar, wind, biomass and geothermal, which are relatively unexploited. However, there is currently a knowledge gap on how renewable energy projects can be derisked to increase the flow of international private capital into them. Based on a literature review, this study aims to identify the risk factors that hinder investment in renewable energy development in SSA. The review finds that barriers to renewable energy development include fragmented electricity markets, utilities with poor balance sheets and low credit ratings, high energy transmission losses, political risks, high initial capital costs, poorly directed subsidies, insufficiently developed money markets, and a poor regulatory framework. Efficient risk mitigation strategies are proposed. The study also finds that the global utility-scale levelized costs of electricity from renewable energy resources compare favourably with those of conventional sources. Countries in SSA need to draw up a clear policy framework with legally binding targets for the contribution of renewable energy to the energy supply portfolio. In addition, subsidies currently enjoyed by conventional energy generators need to be restructured to target low-income groups. SSA countries should identify pipelines of suitable renewable energy projects, complete feasibility studies and invite potential developers. Risks faced by international investors in renewable energy projects, including political, commercial and financial risks, are insurable. SSA faces a large infrastructure financing gap. Closing this financing gap requires building efficient local capital markets to mobilise domestic savings, reduce the costs of capital for renewable energy projects, and reduce reliance on foreign debt. An important consequence of this work is that it is possible to accelerate the development of innovative financing solutions to ramp up investment and deliver clean energy for all. Keywords: Finance, Renewable Energy Projects, Risk Management
The construction and project management (CPM) sector is increasingly recognising the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and risk management. However, the industry faces significant challenges in adopting AI, including fragmented implementation approaches, workforce readiness gaps, and concerns related to governance and data security. This study develops a structured AI implementation strategy tailored for CPM by employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology. Using a transparent and replicable review process to synthesise evidence from peer-reviewed articles, industry reports, and grey literature. The analysis highlights thematic dimensions such as application areas, impact on efficiency, cost, and time management, and the challenges of adoption, taking into consideration the governance and policy alignment, digital infrastructure, stakeholder engagement, workforce capacity, and ethical considerations. Based on these findings, the research proposes a comprehensive implementation strategy that integrates technical, organisational, and ethical perspectives. The contribution of this study lies in providing both scholars and practitioners with an evidence-based framework to guide AI integration in CPM, bridging the gap between theoretical discourse and industry practice, and fostering sustainable digital transformation in the sector. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Construction, Implementation Strategy, Project Management, Systematic Literature Review.
The construction industry is undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advances in digital technologies, heightened sustainability imperatives, and increasing pressures for resilience, efficiency, and accountability. Across both developed and developing economies, these forces are reshaping how construction projects are conceived, delivered, and managed. Yet, the pace and nature of this transformation remain uneven, particularly in contexts characterised by institutional constraints, fragmented industry structures, and resource limitations. It is against this backdrop that this special issue of the Journal of Construction Business and Management (JCBM) was conceived.
This study identifies the client and machinery-related factors and examines their interrelationships in construction procurement, employing a systems-thinking approach. Data from stakeholders in the KwaZulu-Natal construction industry were analysed through statistical methods and Applied Systems Analysis (ASA), with causal loop diagrams (CLDs) illustrating how procurement performance evolves via reinforcing and balancing feedback loops. Findings indicate that clients’ emphasis on cost and timely delivery strongly drives procurement decisions but can weaken decision-making, reduce communication, and increase project variations. Machinery-related challenges, including poor maintenance, high hiring costs, and limited access, further exacerbate inefficiencies. When considered together, balancing loops emerge, where strong governance, effective communication, preventive maintenance, and operator training stabilise and improve outcomes. The study contributes theoretically by advancing a systems-based perspective that integrates client governance and machinery management, and practically by identifying leverage points for policymakers, clients, and contractors, such as improving governance, embedding maintenance practices, aligning priorities with resource planning, and institutionalising feedback. Procurement effectiveness is thus shaped by interdependent governance, decision-making, resource management, and systemic learning. Keywords: Applied Systems Analysis; Client; Construction; Machinery, Procurement; Governance
Smart lighting is emerging in student housing across Africa. This study assesses the drivers and satisfaction of smart lighting in university housing in Southern Ghana. The study used an embedded research method, including a survey of 334 student residents and interviews with 10 housing managers across five purpose-built student housing facilities at five selected public universities in Southern Ghana. The Relative Importance Index and thematic analysis were used as data analytical techniques. The findings reveal that accommodation needs primarily drove the adoption of smart lighting in student housing. The satisfaction levels of smart lighting were limited to lighting controls in lavatories, bedrooms, study areas, the kitchen, and common areas. However, dissatisfaction with lighting was associated with adjusting to the minimum light intensity and controlling artificial lighting. Technically, the limited influence of facilities management factors on smart lighting adoption poses a significant risk to energy sustainability if left unaddressed. Interviews reveal that students' lack of knowledge impacts their satisfaction with and usage of smart lighting systems. At a minimum, student housing managers and students would need education on smart lighting. Keywords: Energy sustainability, smart lighting, sustainable design, student housing, Technology Acceptance Model
The Port of Durban has recently experienced operational delays, which have affected its performance. Delays at the Port hinder the timely completion of projects in South Africa's construction sector. Hence, this exploratory research focuses on identifying, through the literature, the suitability and consequences of using blockchain technology to facilitate the supply chain for construction materials. Furthermore, the port productivity of the Port of Durban was compared with that of Rotterdam harbours. The Quantitative Research Approach aligns with this research philosophy and underpinnings. Secondary data are collected from the port website, and the Malmquist Productivity Index is used to determine the enablers of Port Productivity from 2017 to 2023. The heterogeneity of the port cases limits the generalisation of findings. However, policymakers, project managers, investment planners, and operational practitioners will benefit as the possibilities of blockchain technology in enhancing the supply chain of construction materials are discussed. Due to time constraints, the data is limited to the period of 2017-2023. The research findings show that technologies such as Blockchain and artificial intelligence are major drivers of port productivity at the Port of Rotterdam. The application of various customised technologies has improved the Port of Rotterdam's productivity. The construction sector is in dire need of effective, efficient port systems, given the multiple stakeholders and projects. The application of Blockchain technology, especially with smart contracts, provides a degree of flexibility. Keywords: Blockchain, Construction Material Supply Chain, Efficiency, Productivity, Port of Durban and Rotterdam.
This paper examines the policy-related challenges faced by stakeholders in promoting sustainable construction practices within Nigeria's construction sector. The research objective was pursued through a comprehensive literature review and semi-structured interviews with eleven built environment professionals based in Lagos and Abuja. Using NVivo 14, a thematic analysis was conducted, yielding seven key themes. Among these, the most significant were the weak enforcement of the Nigerian building code, limited public and professional awareness of sustainable construction, and insufficient municipal capacity to support implementation at the local government level. The findings underscore the need for stronger regulatory frameworks, clearer enforcement mechanisms, and a coordinated awareness strategy to support policy adoption and compliance. The study also highlights the need for active political will, alongside stakeholder collaboration, to ensure policy continuity and mitigate the effects of changing government administrations. Government agencies, policymakers, and industry professionals must therefore collaborate more strategically to drive innovation and strengthen policy adaptation mechanisms. Overall, this study advances knowledge of sustainable construction policy in developing economies by presenting practitioner-based evidence on Nigeria's specific challenges in policy implementation and political will, from the perspective of senior construction industry professionals. Keywords: Building code, Nigeria, policy implementation, professionals, stakeholders, and sustainable construction
This paper aimed at establishing whether all dimensions of Participative Leadership, namely consultation, delegation, and collective decision making, matter in the Success of Government Construction Projects in Uganda. The study employed a cross-sectional and quantitative approach utilising a self-administered questionnaire to gather data. Stratified random sampling was used to select a sample of 100 construction projects from a population of 120 from the five divisions of Kampala district (KCCA website). Later, purposive sampling was used to select a project manager, engineer, contractor and local council leader from each of the 100 projects arriving at a total of 400 respondents. Using SPSS, correlation analysis examined the association between variables, while linear regression analysis assessed each participative leadership dimension to project success. Results revealed stakeholder consultation and joint decision-making are the most significant participative leadership style dimensions of project success. Theoretically, this study provides maiden evidence of the insignificant contribution of delegation to the success of government construction projects, highlighting stakeholder consultation and joint decision-making as key components in project success based on findings from Uganda. In practice, while executing, managers should consult and jointly make project decisions with stakeholders to realise project success.
Welcome! This is Issue 1 of Volume 8 of the Journal of Construction Business and Management. The Issue brings together diverse studies that examine emerging-market contexts and how they shape construction management practice. Studies reported in the focus on topical issues ranging from contract drafting and claim handling to material choices and drivers of consumer behaviour. The papers collectively highlight the interdependencies among legal frameworks, project governance, market dynamics, and sustainability imperatives that define emerging markets and developing-country construction landscapes. These articles were contributed by 14 authors from Nigeria, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
