Fuzzy-Based Model for Assessing the Digitalization Level of Construction

Projects in Saudi Arabia CDB

Yazeed Alsalamah, Awsan Mohammed Research
College of Architectural Engineering and Construction Management Department Day
Design and Built
Environment

Introduction Methodology Results (Contd.)

The methodology employs Mamadani's fuzzy logic system linking four input
Recently, digitization in the construction sector has grown, indicating an Table 1. Digitization levels and DDCA output disparities for different activities
variables to the Digitalization Level of Construction Activities (DDCA),
important change in how projects are planned, accomplished, and Digitization Level DDCA Output Expert
effectively assessing digitalization levels within construction projects, as
managed. This shift is driven by a convergence of modern technologies Activity (Expert Data) (Fuzzy Model) DDCA Difference
validated through expert opinions and real-world evaluation, offering a
that are changing traditional construction techniques and revealing new Follow-up and DA=6.46, DE=5.3,
practical tool for stakeholders navigating digital transformation challenges. management of 6.02 6.08 0.06
possibilities. The movement of construction companies towards DN=5.78, DR=6.65
Construction project activities collection Data Management deviations
digitalization requires an effective assessment of the level of digitalization based on literature review Processes:
Data Acquisition Update drawings,
in the construction industry at the project level. The application of Data Entry DA=7.04, DE=4.35,
models, and
technology in construction is characterized by a wide range of innovative Construction project activities screening Data Analysis
DN=7.14, DR=6.44
6.19 6.61 0.42
Data Reporting document
materials, methods, and data outputs that are difficult to track manually. It systems
Identify
is, therefore, essential to identify tools to assess digital compliance in Ranking the identified activities Identify Construction Degree of Improve the
Activities DA=6.84, DE=6.18,
Digitalization project's energy 7.01 6.90 0.11
construction projects. Furthermore, the dynamic nature of construction DN=6.76, DR=6.70
Model development for Assessing the degree consumption
projects, influenced by factors such as unpredictable weather conditions, of digitalization of activities Improve waste DA=7.17, DE=5.94,
site complexities, and regulatory changes, introduces a level of uncertainty management 6.61 6.94 0.33
Calculate DN=7.76, DR=7.66
that traditional deterministic techniques struggle to address effectively. Measuring digitlization index Digitalization strategies
Index
Deterministic approaches, which rely on fixed inputs and precise Follow the staff's DA=6.43, DE=5.83,
presence and 6.57 6.29 0.28
calculations, often fall short in capturing the nuanced and unpredictable validating the model DN=7.32, DR=7.24
Figure 1. Research methodology workforce reports
aspects of construction activities. The limitations of deterministic
techniques become apparent, as they lack the adaptability required to Results
navigate the complex and evolving landscape of construction projects. the
• The degree of digitalization results for various activities using the Fuzzy
study aims to propose a fuzzy-based model for assessing the digitalization
Model ranged from 6.02 to 7.01, with corresponding expert opinions Conclusions
level of construction projects.
ranging from 6.08 to 6.90.
• The study's findings provide a useful tool for the construction industry
• The small difference between the two datasets indicates a good fit of toward a successful digital transformation.
Aims and Objectives the fuzzy model to the expert data, validating the model's effectiveness.
• Findings underscore the importance of digital capabilities for Saudi
The objectives of this research are as follows: construction projects, recommending training programs and
• Real-world evaluation confirmed the model's capability to establish the
• Identify the potential activities to be digitalized at the project level in the level of digitization in construction projects. collaborative digital processes to improve productivity.
construction industry. • Recommendations include robust data governance, best practices, and
• Rank the identified construction activities by constructing a model to Figure 2. Input- tailored digitalization efforts, emphasizing sustainability and the
Output mapping in necessity of a coordinated strategy.
calculate the digitalization need values for each activity based on six
Matlab fuzzy
measures that determine the acceptance of technology in construction model • Constant observation, cooperation with technology suppliers, and
projects. interaction with legislators are highlighted for successful digitization
• Develop a fuzzy-based model to evaluate the degree of digitalization of initiatives.
construction projects considering uncertainties in experts' judgments • Implementation of the study's recommendations is expected to lead to
and build an assessment tool for the digitalization of construction increased productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness in the Saudi
projects in Saudi Arabia. construction industry.
Research Day