Managing Earthwork Construction Business Institutions Applying Industry 4.0 Relating Technologies – The Case of German SMEs

Abstract

The interest in Industry 4.0 relating technology in earthwork construction is increasing and continues to gain more and more in popularity. Earthwork contractors have begun to think about alternative and innovative ways to increase productivity by applying new ICT technologies. In this context they try e.g. to utilize sensors, software and information and communication tools to improve processes and to reduce workforce and total costs at the same time. However, as with many innovations, there exist companies that have not invested in these technologies yet. The objective of this paper is to investigate in technologies associated with Industry 4.0 and their potential future application-possibilities in the field of earthwork construction. Therefore, this paper conducted an in-depth literature review of relevant Industry 4.0 technology topics. Additionally, semi-structured interviews among German earthwork industry experts were conducted, which revealed several insights regarding benefits, challenges and barriers of managing relevant technologies.