Emerging information communication technology trends in the construction industry: an overview

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) in the construction industry has transformed design processes, project management, and overall operational productivity. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the emerging ICT trends reshaping construction practices globally. Adopting a systematic literature review approach, the study synthesizes findings from 109 peer-reviewed articles retrieved from databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. This study explores recent improvements in ICT and their transformative impact on construction practices. Key emerging trends such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain technology, cloud computing, robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital twins are discussed in terms of their applications, benefits, and challenges. The study examines the role of ICT in enhancing productivity, sustainability, enhanced project coordination, real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, transparency in contract management, and collaboration across stakeholders. The review highlights the widespread adoption of BIM as a foundational digital tool, while newer innovations like AI and blockchain are in exploratory or pilot phases. By synthesizing the existing literature, this review provides insights into the evolving digital landscape of the construction sector and highlights future research directions. The findings underscore the critical need for continuous technological adoption and innovation to enhance efficiency, improve project outcomes, and reduce costs. Overall, the review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to understand the impact of ICT on modern construction practices.