How Can Construction Companies Build Digital Technology Capabilities? An Exploratory Study Based on Grounded Theory

The rapid development of digital technology in the construction industry has brought about numerous new application scenarios, requiring construction companies to possess digital technology capabilities to effectively respond to this transformation. This study aims to identify the structural dimensions of digital technology capabilities in construction companies, helping them recognize the importance of building such capabilities and facilitating digital transformation to enhance project performance and transformational outcomes. Through semi-structured interviews with 36 professionals in the digital technology field and employing the Grounded Theory research method, we constructed the structural dimensions of digital technology capabilities in construction companies and elaborated on this model using the dynamic capabilities theory. The findings revealed that construction companies’ digital technology capabilities consist of five dimensions: Digital Technology Foundational Capabilities, Digital Technology Application capabilities, Digital Technology Collaboration capabilities, Digital Technology Optimization capabilities, and Digital Technology Development Capabilities. These capabilities exhibit a hierarchical relationship, gradually advancing from lower to higher levels. The research results extend the dynamic capabilities theory, emphasizing the significance of core digital technology capabilities for construction companies and providing a theoretical basis for driving digital transformation.