Lean iceberg model to minimise barriers for digital twin implementation: Sri Lankan construction industry perspective

Bandara, D. W.J.W.; Ranadewa, K. A.T.O.; Parameswaran, Agana; Eranga, B. A.I.; Nawarathna, Amalka

Abstract

Digital twin technology holds immense potential for the construction industry in developing countries, while providing numerous benefits. Yet, financial, cultural, infrastructural and technological barriers hinder the implementation of digital twin. Researchers have emphasised the importance of considering both visible and invisible barriers of digital twin implementation. ‘Lean Iceberg Model’ (LIM) emphasises that most of the underlying barriers and problems in a project are invisible and unaddressed, and it is critical to solve these underlying issues to achieve effective implementation. The study aims to develop a LIM to minimise barriers for successful digital twin implementation in the Sri Lankan construction industry. This study adopts an interpretivism stance and employs a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 experts chosen through purposive sampling. VBA script was employed to analyse the data. LIM highlights the unseen aspects such as leadership, commitment, employee engagement, and organisational strategy as crucial to the successful digital twin implementation. Thus, a comprehensive approach is required to contemplates the technical aspects with the organisation's overall strategy, employee engagement, and leadership commitment. Moreover, cultural values, norms, leadership, and social networks are also examined to determine their impact on digital twin implementation. A framework for minimising the barriers to the implementation of digital twins in the Sri Lankan construction industry using the LIM has been developed incorporating the findings, which will offer valuable insights for construction industry professionals and policymakers interested in implementing digital twin to improve construction project management.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: 11th World Construction Symposium
• Start Date: Jul 21, 2023
• End Date: Jul 22, 2023
• Acceptance Date: Jun 15, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Jul 21, 2023
• Publication Date: Jul 21, 2023
• Deposit Date: Oct 4, 2023
• Volume: 1
• Pages: 671-685
• Book Title: Proceedings of the 11th World Construction Symposium
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.31705/WCS.2023.55
• Keywords: Barriers; Construction Industry; Digital Twin; Lean Iceberg Model; Sri Lanka.
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/11151188
• Publisher URL: https://ciobwcs.com/papers/