Digital twin (DT) development strategies in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry based on SWOT-AHP analysis

The architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is currently encountering numerous challenges and actively pursuing industrial upgrades through digital transformation. Digital twin (DT) technology aligns well with the industry's evolving needs due to its capabilities in data integration, intelligent decision-making, and effective management of project progress, efficiency, and quality. This study conducts a comprehensive literature review to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) associated with DT applications in the AEC sector. Additionally, field visits and semi-structured interviews were conducted on a selected construction project where DT was implemented, allowing for an in-depth examination of both its significant benefits and potential limitations. To further evaluate and prioritize the identified SWOT factors, a SWOT-AHP analysis was performed. The results indicate that the AEC industry has a strong interest in DT's advantages, particularly its potential to enhance resource allocation and process efficiency. Furthermore, the analysis reveals that the strategic quadrilateral occupies the largest area in the fourth quadrant (0.8554), with the strategic center of gravity located at (0.2321, -0.04135), suggesting that Strengths-Threats (ST) strategies should be implemented to support the future development and adoption of DT. Based on this strategic framework, the study formulates actionable development strategies to facilitate the effective integration and widespread adoption of DT in the AEC industry.