A conceptual framework on agile technology diffusion in the Turkish construction industry

Abstract

The complex nature of the construction process needs intensive control and management mechanisms in order to effectively manage information flow. Current deficiencies in managing construction-related information have been highlighted by a range of industry reports and seminal papers, the consensus of which has reiterated these issues. Recent research on the role of Information Technologies (IT) has been proffered as a potential solution for addressing these deficiencies, along with improving competitive advantage. Despite the rapid developments in technology field, the inefficient and slow progress of diffusion has been highlighted and examined by various studies. Whilst a number of studies have focused on nature of IT diffusion and adoption issues, limited research has concentrated on the "efficiency" of the IT diffusion process. This research addresses this gap by introducing a novel approach of "agility" in IT diffusion process within the bounded context of the Turkish Construction Industry. This thesis developed a conceptual framework for agile technology diffusion, which applies an agility lens to technology diffusion and acceptance theories. It adopted an interpretivist approach with an explicit constrained research lens which embraces the Turkish Construction Industry as the context delimiter. The research adopted a multiple case study approach in which qualitative and quantitative data were collected simultaneously from an identical sample, with the aim of complementing two types of data with each other. While the analysis of the quantitative data identified the priorities in the development of agile technology capabilities, the qualitative data analysis results presented a number of dynamics which were sequentially "mapped" into a conceptual framework for critique. The conceptual framework was then tested and validated with domain experts to confirm construct validity and reinforces data veracity. This framework enables construction organisations to actively manage the technology diffusion through an agility perspective, helping them to develop their capabilities of: (1) responsiveness, (2) flexibility and (3) competence in regard of diffusion and adoption of emerging technologies.