Digital Knowledge Management and Construction 4.0 Principles as Drivers of Construction Project Delivery: The Mediating Role of Digital Transformation in the UAE Construction Sector -A Mixed Methodology Study

Abstract

The construction industry in the UAE faces challenges in completing projects to established standards. Research on the combined effects of Digital Knowledge Management, Construction 4.0 principles, and Digital Transformation on Project delivery is limited. This research aims to examine the impact of DKM and Construction 4.0 principles on the execution of construction projects, with digital transformation serving as a mediator. An explanatory sequential mixed methodology was employed. Initially, quantitative data was collected from 232 respondents through simple random and snowball sampling. Then, a qualitative study was conducted using purposive and convenience sampling, which involved reflexive thematic analysis of 23 semi-structured interviews. The research findings enhance theoretical understanding by amalgamating DKM and Construction 4.0 into a cohesive framework and empirically validating the mechanism of the mediating function of digital transformation, which is developed and validated theoretically and empirically based on four pillars: people, process, technology, and environment, to assist construction organizations and policymakers in improving digital project delivery. The research contributes methodologically by empirically testing an integrated model that combines DKM, Construction 4.0, and Digital Transformation. This is achieved through regression and mediation analysis and qualitative validation, offering a structured approach to connect the research constructs with project delivery outcomes. The theory and practice contributions illustrate how the integration of Digital Knowledge Management, Construction 4.0, and Digital Transformation creates a socio-technical mechanism that improves project delivery. It provides an evidence-based framework to facilitate practical implementation throughout the project lifecycle in the UAE.