Effect of Emerging Technology Adoption On Construction Planning and Scheduling Performance in Bauchi State, Nigeria (Published)
The construction industry is increasingly adopting digital and emerging technologies to address persistent problems of schedule delays, cost overruns, inefficient resource utilisation and fragmented project information. However, evidence concerning whether technology adoption translates into measurable improvements in construction planning and scheduling performance remains limited in developing construction contexts. This study examines the effect of emerging technology adoption on construction planning and scheduling performance in Bauchi State, Nigeria. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted among construction professionals involved in project planning, scheduling and delivery. From 265 questionnaires administered, 256 valid responses were obtained, representing a 96.6% valid response rate. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and multiple regression. The findings indicate that labour requirements (M = 3.72), external stakeholder influence (M = 3.48), cost implications (M = 3.46), technology adaptability (M = 3.45) and technology quality (M = 3.41) were the principal factors influencing adoption. Major adoption challenges included low awareness and leadership buy-in (M = 4.08), resistance to change (M = 3.90), and technical and integration difficulties (M = 3.66). The regression model was statistically significant, explaining 56.0% of the variance in construction planning and scheduling performance (R = 0.748, R² = 0.560, adjusted R² = 0.545, F(8,247) = 38.742, p < 0.001). Reduced delays and cost overruns (β = 0.294), enhanced efficiency (β = 0.226), data-driven decision-making (β = 0.187), project cost management (β = 0.169), and real-time updates (β = 0.152) were significant predictors. The findings demonstrate that digital technologies can improve project delivery when embedded within organisational capabilities, competent human resources and reliable information processes. The study contributes context-specific evidence from a Nigerian construction environment and highlights organisational readiness and technology integration as important conditions for converting digital adoption into planning and scheduling improvements.
Keywords: construction planning, construction scheduling. Construction 4.0, digitalisation; project performance, emerging technologies