Purpose The importance of robotics and automation (R&A) in delivering a safe built environment cannot be overemphasised. This is because R&A systems can execute a hazardous job function that the construction workforce may not execute. Based on this knowledge, this study aims to present the result of an assessment of the impediments to the deployment of R&A for a safe and healthy construction environment. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a post-positivist philosophical stance, using a quantitative research approach and a questionnaire administered to construction professionals in South Africa. The data gathered were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean item score, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, exploratory factor analysis and partial least square structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings This study revealed that the impediments to the deployment of R&A could be grouped into: industry, technology, human and cost-related factors. However, SEM assessment showed that only the industry, human and cost-related factors would significantly impact attaining specific health and safety-related outcomes. Practical implications The findings offer valuable benefits to construction organisations as the careful understanding of the identified impeding factors can help lead to better deployment of R&A and the attainment of its inherent safety benefits. Originality/value This study attempts to fill the gap in the shortage of literature exploring the deployment of R&A for a safe construction environment, particularly in developing countries like South Africa, where such studies are non-existent. This paper, therefore, offers a theoretical backdrop for future works on R&A deployment, particularly in developing countries where such a study has not been explored.

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In the quest to promote constant value for money, value management (VM) has been proposed and adopted within the construction industry of countries across the world. To improve the VM process for a more effective outcome, pervasive digital technologies can be employed throughout a project and in the VM process. However, developing countries like South Africa are still lagging in using these emerging technologies. Therefore, this study assessed the digital technologies that can improve the VM process and the barriers hindering their usage within the construction industry. The study adopted a postpositivism philosophical stance with a questionnaire used to gather quantitative data from construction professionals that have participated in VM exercises within the South African construction industry. The data gathered were analysed using mean item score, standard deviation, the Kruskal-Wallis H-test, multiple linear regression and exploratory factor analysis. The study found with high predictive accuracy that digital technologies such as computer-based software, BIM, mobile devices, electronic meeting tools, cloud computing, augmented and virtual realities will significantly impact the overall success of VM practices. Furthermore, the barriers to the effective deployment of these technologies in the VM process can be categorised into (1) cost and awareness, (2) complexities of the VM and digital tools, (3) the construction industry’s digital culture, and (4) the availability of technology and expertise. This study provides a theoretical backdrop for future studies exploring the use of digital technologies for VM practices—an aspect that has not gained significant attention in VM discourse in the construction industry.

Infrastructural development is fundamental in nationʼs economic growth and development. Power infrastructure is imperative for nation building and helps create employment and improved the well-being of its citizens. This research paper identifies the impact of power infrastructure development on the economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The study adopted a quantitative research approach with data gathered from the respondents within power infrastructure development in the region. Information gathered were analysed using mean item score, standard deviation and factor analysis. The findings revealed the impact of power development on the economic benefit in SSA to be wealth creation, boost in citizensʼ income, health care improvement, improved educational systems were seen as the direct impact of infrastructure development on the economic situation in sub-Sahara Africa. Since the lack of infrastructural facilities of an economy can lead to various setbacks in the nationʼs economic development, it thereby requires adequate participations by stakeholders to deliver sustainable power infrastructure development in the society. The study power infrastructure development can contribute to regional and national growth, urbanization challenges, and improvement in the environmental through the provision of clean energy which foster social and economic inclusion.

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