Applications of augmented reality for construction productivity improvement: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose– Despite the significance of the construction industry to the nation’s economic growth, there is empirical evidence that the sector is lagging behind other industries in terms of productivity growth. The need for improvements inspired the industry’s stakeholders to consider using emerging technologies that support the enhancement. This research aims to report augmented reality applications essential for contractors’ productivity improvement. Design/methodology/approach– This study systematically reviewed academic journals. The selection of journal articles entailed searching Scopus and Web of Science databases. Relevant articles for reviews were identified andscreened.Contentanalysiswasusedtoclassifykeyapplicationsintosixcategories.Theresearch results were limited to journal articles published between 2010 and 2021. Findings– Augmented reality can improve construction productivity through its applications in assembly, training and education, monitoring and controlling, interdisciplinary function, health and safety and design information. Originality/value– The research provides a direction for contractors on key augmented reality applications they can leverage to improve their organisations’ productivity. Keywords Applications, Augmented reality, Construction, Labour productivity, Systematic review, Technology