Laser scanning technology for construction project delivery in developing economies: a confirmatory factor analysis of hindering factors

Purpose The use of technological innovations to effectively deliver construction projects is gaining significant coverage. This study aims to assess the inhibiting factors to the utilisation of laser scanners for the delivery of construction projects in developing economies using South Africa as the study area. Design/methodology/approach Adopting a quantitative technique, this study elicited responses from construction professionals using a questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. A four-pronged data analysis method was used, comprising descriptive statistics, Kruskal−Wallis h-test, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Findings Findings from the study show that lack of awareness and high cost of acquisition are the barriers rated by the study’s respondents the most. Also, findings from the EFA and CFA conducted showed and affirmed the significance of three constructs inhibiting factors to the utilisation of laser scanners for construction project delivery: technical hindrances, financial impediments and institutional challenges. Practical implications This study makes practical contributions to the discourse of using innovative technologies for effective construction project delivery by inhibiting factors to the use of laser scanners. Originality/value Evidence from the literature shows that no study has assessed the barriers to the utilisation of laser scanning technology for construction projects in the South African construction industry. This study strives to close this gap in the literature.