Digital Twin implementation barriers hinder sustainability in construction

Why It Matters

Understanding and addressing these implementation challenges is crucial for leveraging Digital Twin technology to achieve more sustainable outcomes in construction projects. This requires a strategic approach to overcome obstacles related to technology, data, and organizational practices.

Key Finding

The research identified numerous obstacles to using Digital Twins in construction, with issues related to performance and security being particularly significant. The social benefits of sustainability are not being fully realized through current Digital Twin adoption.

Key Findings

• 45 distinct barriers to Digital Twin implementation were identified.
• Barriers cluster into six main categories, with 'performance' and 'security' being the most prominent.
• The social dimension of sustainability is least supported by current Digital Twin implementation strategies.

Research Evidence

Aim: What are the primary barriers to implementing Digital Twins in the building and construction sector, and how do these barriers impact the achievement of sustainability goals?

Method: Mixed-methods research

Procedure: The study involved a comprehensive literature review, followed by expert interviews with construction professionals. Data from these sources were used to identify and categorize barriers to Digital Twin implementation, with a focus on their relationship to sustainability.

Sample Size: 108 participants

Context: Building and construction sector

Design Principle

Technological adoption for sustainability requires a holistic approach that accounts for implementation challenges across all facets of a project.

How to Apply

When proposing or implementing Digital Twin solutions in construction, conduct a thorough barrier analysis and develop mitigation plans, paying special attention to performance and security aspects.

Limitations

The study's findings are specific to the Hong Kong building and construction sector and may not be universally applicable without further validation.

Student Guide (IB Design Technology)

Simple Explanation: It's hard to use new digital tools like 'Digital Twins' in building projects because of problems like old systems, unsure data, and bad internet. These problems stop the tools from helping make projects more eco-friendly and good for people.

Why This Matters: Understanding the challenges of adopting new technologies helps you make more realistic and successful design proposals. It shows you've thought about potential roadblocks.

Critical Thinking: To what extent do the identified barriers to Digital Twin implementation reflect broader challenges in adopting any complex digital technology in traditional industries?

IA-Ready Paragraph: Research indicates that the implementation of advanced digital technologies, such as Digital Twins in the construction sector, faces significant barriers. These obstacles, including issues with legacy systems, data uncertainty, and connectivity, can impede the technology's ability to contribute effectively to sustainability goals. Therefore, a critical aspect of design practice involves anticipating and mitigating these challenges to ensure successful adoption and realization of intended benefits.

Project Tips

• When researching a new technology for your design project, look for common problems that stop people from using it.
• Consider how a technology's limitations might affect its ability to achieve broader goals, like sustainability.

How to Use in IA

• Cite this research when discussing the challenges of implementing innovative technologies in your design project, especially if your project involves digital tools or sustainability goals.

Examiner Tips

• Demonstrate an awareness of the practical challenges in implementing design solutions, not just their theoretical benefits.

Independent Variable: Barriers to Digital Twin implementation

Dependent Variable: Achievement of sustainability pillars

Controlled Variables: Building and construction sector context, expert experience

Strengths

• Comprehensive identification and categorization of barriers.
• Focus on the intersection of technology adoption and sustainability.

Critical Questions

• How can the 'social' aspect of sustainability be better integrated into Digital Twin implementation strategies?
• Are there specific technological solutions or policy changes that could effectively address the identified 'performance' and 'security' barriers?

Extended Essay Application

• An Extended Essay could explore the diffusion of Digital Twin technology in construction, analyzing how different barriers influence adoption rates across various project types and company sizes.

Source

Modelling the relationship between digital twins implementation barriers and sustainability pillars: Insights from building and construction sector · Sustainable Cities and Society · 2023 · 10.1016/j.scs.2023.104930