Strategic Innovations in Construction: Roles and Challenges for Management and Entrepreneurship in the Context of Digitalization

The aim of this paper is to examine digital technologies in construction and the experience of their implementation. Research methods: information analysis and synthesis, case study and SWOT analysis. The research materials were the works of Russian and foreign scientists, as well as analytical and news resources. This article examines the main areas of digital development for construction companies, as well as the technologies used to solve practical problems. Modern digital tools in construction include BIM modeling, artificial intelligence, VR and 3D technologies, big data, drones, topographic surveying, and blockchain. The introduction of digital technologies goes through several stages before becoming established in the company as a useful solution. The most significant step in this process is the willingness of senior management to make changes. Digital technologies are used for modeling and visualizing future capital construction projects, as well as during the construction process to maintain quality and ensure compliance with occupational safety regulations. The key challenges facing digitalization in construction are identified: a lack of readiness for change, conservatism among senior management, disinterest among stakeholders, difficulties in calculating the effectiveness and contribution of digital technologies to the bottom line, and a shortage of qualified personnel. Russian companies also face challenges with software support and the lack of domestic counterparts. The research’s novelty lies in the development of strategies for the development of digitalization in construction. Based on the SWOT analysis, three key strategies are proposed: public-private partnerships (implementation of large-scale projects and joint investments in digitalization), corporate collaboration (division of authority and responsibility for project implementation between partner companies), and cost reduction (rental and leasing of technologies when senior management is prepared for change). The study also identifies strategies that are likely to be relevant and effective depending on the scale of the business and the goals of its management.