ABSTRACT
Despite increasing global adoption of digital construction technologies, their integration in developing contexts remains limited. This study investigates current level of awareness and usage of digital monitoring and control tools among civil engineers and project managers in South Africa and the key barriers and enablers influencing their adoption. Using a mixed-methods design, the study surveyed 66 professionals in the construction industry to assess tool frequency, perceived challenges, and readiness for adoption. Results show high reliance on traditional methods (mean = 3.55 for Gantt/CPM), and low uptake of advanced tools such as BIM (mean = 2.08) and AI forecasting (mean = 2.03), largely due to cost, technical skill gaps, and system incompatibility. However, 95% of respondents expressed willingness to adopt digital solutions. These findings highlight a readiness for transformation constrained by systemic barriers, suggesting targeted training, investment, and policy reform are essential for progress within the South African construction industry.
