Exploring Disruptive Thinking Possibilities in Construction and Engineering

Abstract

 Innovation adoption in construction and engineering projects is often claimed to be problematic and slow. Traditional analysis of innovation adoption is grounded in evidence- based practice and financial risk analysis. This has the effect of making innovation development in construction rarely able to disrupt industry. Innovation tends to occur in a drip feed like manner resulting in incremental and slower adoption. This is perceived as a problem for the construction industry. This paper uses the concept of Disruptive Thinking to examine a potential frame of reference for construction practitioners in their work and how they approach innovation adoption. The research uses interviews producing personal stories with professionals working on construction and engineering projects. The research shows that there is some evidence of use of disruptive mindsets by construction and engineering professionals, resulting in disruptive practice in certain sectors, not in the construction industry as a whole. The paper concludes that Disruptive Thinking is a starting point, and vehicle that can lead practitioners to more readily adopt innovation. Disruptive thinking can be a means to adoption when the mindset of evidence- based practice can be infiltrated.