Diffusion of Construction Technology: A Communicative Approach

It is widely recognized that more technologies are created than implemented.to better reap the benefits of development, we should look into the dynamics of the diffusion process. Interpersonal communication fundamentally impacts diffusion, the process by which people become aware of and decide to use new technologies. Communication network techniques can be used to map and analyze communication patterns and their impact on knowledge, attitude, and use of technologies, over time, and to identify critical roles and their function in the diffusion process. This paper reports on the first phase of an investigation of the diffusion of new technologies in Japanese and U.S. construction companies. Preliminary interview results, combined with summaries of background research, yield a plan for future work. Increased understanding of the communication patterns and key roles influencing diffusion from this investigation will be used to develop managerial strategies for improving the diffusion of vital new construction technology.