Towards the implementation of immersive technology in construction – a SWOT Analysis

Whilst research of immersive technology has been growing, substantial efforts thus far have been scattered. Conflicting ideas and arguments from scholars provoke uncertainty and questions about the validity of these outputs in fostering more extensive implementation of immersive technology in the construction industry. Consequently, the direction for further developments in research remains unclear. This study aims to identify the status quo of immersive technology adoption in construction. A systematic review with thematic analysis was conducted. Common themes and concerns about the use of immersive technology in the construction are classified under the framework of SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats). The results indicate that whilst ‘strengths’ and ‘opportunities’ display a broad array of applications and functions that are derived from real benefits, a substantial amount of opportunities mentioned are driven by optimism. Alternatively, the results from ‘weaknesses’ and ‘opportunities’ identify several limitations involved in the uptake of immersive technology in the construction industry. Findings of this study provide vision that can help direct resources to those measures that can best meet the needs of construction industry. It is suggested that future resources are better to be put on integration with proven effective systems like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. New developments should due consider the real demand of the industry.