Quality Management Technologies in Highway Construction: Stakeholders’ Perception of Utility, Benefits, and Barriers

Abstract

The adoption and utilization of technology for quality management (QM) processes and procedures is an efficient and effective tool to improve project performance, service life, and cost. Studies using existing and emerging technologies for QM in highway construction have found better results compared with those using conventional or traditional procedures. However, the extended use of these technologies in paving operations in the highway construction industry is limited due to stakeholders’ aversion to innovation. This study identified and assessed the usefulness of QM technologies used in highway pavement construction, identified the benefits of using these technologies, and examined the criticality of various barriers that prevent wider implementation. A survey was conducted among professionals with advanced knowledge of QM in the highway construction industry in the US. Findings showed that managing the quality of roadways in highway construction relatively uses low technology, regardless of the relatively high perceived usefulness. This study identified the device accuracy concerns, cost of the technology, and incompatibility of technology with existing practice as the major barriers. This research provides helpful insight for stakeholders in the highway construction industry and manufacturers involved in QM. The findings of this study will help to create a seamless process that enhances the adoption and implementation of technologies within QM processes.