Key Decision-Making Challenges and The Applicability Of Construction 5.0 In Planning Infrastructure Megaprojects

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Phakisi Stephen Lehlomela and Prof. Khatleli Nthatisi

https://doi.org/10.64755/DHDJ5622

Keywords: Infrastructure Planning; Megaprojects; Decision-making; Infrastructure Projects; Decision Making

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

The purpose of this paper is to explore the key challenges that bedevil decision-making during the planning of infrastructure megaprojects and how the use of Construction 5.0 (C5.0) may ease some of the challenges.

DESIGN / METHODOLOGY / APPROACH

The paper uses bibliometrics and scientometric analyses as qualitative and quantitative methods to extract a corpus of articles that are published in the Scopus database within the period 2014-2024. Quantitative metrics such as CiteSpace, CiteScore, and Field-Weighted Citation Impact (FWCI) are used to analyse the performance, quality, and overall impact of publications used under this research.

FINDINGS

The most prominent challenges facing decision-making in infrastructure megaprojects include complexities and uncertainties, stakeholder management dynamics, political and market dynamics, governance mechanisms in megaprojects, and sustainability concerns. The reliance on static instrumental rationality during decision-making and justification for investing in a megaproject still takes precedence.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS / IMPLICATIONS

Adoption of C5.0 principles can assist in developing adaptive strategies that provide the ability to integrate sustainability, stakeholder, and investment criteria into the decision-making process. Exploring multidimensional and interdisciplinary approaches that embrace the use of adaptive qualitative and quantitative planning and decision-making processes may improve outcomes.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

Traditional project management approaches cannot address the inherent complexities and uncertainties in megaprojects. Unpredictability of outcomes makes it difficult to align with strategic imperatives of policy and societal needs. The use of alternative tools such as Decision Support Systems (DSS), and Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) may aid in delivering sustainable outcomes for society. Use of C5.0 principles remains limited, with sustained growth in recent years.