Socio-technical approach to blockchain adoption in construction

Abstract

This chapter introduces the socio-technical systems (STS) theory as a lens to explore blockchain adoption in the construction sector. It outlines how blockchain technology, characterised by its transparency, immutability and decentralised nature, addresses long-standing inefficiencies in construction. However, the chapter emphasises that blockchain adoption requires more than technical implementation - it must consider the interplay between technological and social factors. The chapter reviews STS theory's origins, its relevance to technological innovation and its application to the built environment, particularly digital technologies like building information modelling (BIM). It highlights conceptual models like the multi-level perspective (MLP) and presents a socio-technical framework tailored for blockchain adoption, combining dimensions of technology, process, policy and society. By providing a roadmap and specific models for blockchain integration, Chapter 3 establishes a comprehensive approach to navigating adoption barriers and leveraging blockchain's potential to transform construction processes and relationships among stakeholders.