Socio-industrial analysis of cross-sector robotics adoption obstacles for light-gauge steel construction

Purpose This research examines robotics adoption in industrialized construction to accelerate adoption by applying the theory of planned behavior (TPB) framework to analyze cross-sector technology transfer obstacles between manufacturing and construction sectors, specifically for light-gauge steel construction systems. Design/methodology/approach A mixed-methods approach combines systematic literature analysis of 144 documents with a novel socio-industrial analysis framework. The methodology integrates industrial technology analysis examining 189 technological components across three categories (robotics, control systems and end effectors) with behavioral, social and organizational analysis applying TPB's five constructs (perceived behavioral control, subjective norm, attitude toward behavior, behavioral intention and actual system use) to categorize adoption obstacles. Findings Analysis found that 88% of robotic systems demonstrate no cross-sector applicability despite component transferability. Of the 75 obstacle-bearing documents identified within the corpus, perceived behavioral control emerges as the dominant barrier, present in 69% (52 of 75) and multi-construct obstacles impact 60% (45 of 75), indicating systemic challenges requiring comprehensive interventions. End effectors show highest cross-sector potential compared to robotic systems, suggesting modular implementation strategies prove more viable than complete system transfers. Originality/value This research extends TPB application to cross-sector manufacturing-construction technology adoption at the organizational level, developing an integrated analytical framework connecting technical capabilities with behavioral barriers. The findings offer actionable insights for practitioners implementing construction robotics, emphasizing organizational transformation and multi-dimensional interventions over purely technical solutions. The framework advances both TPB theoretical application and construction automation practice.