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Digital ecosystems play a crucial role in the Construction 4.0 framework. The C4.0 framework requires both digital and physical (or product-based) transformations to take place in tandem to reach the goals set by the Fourth Industrial Revolution. For the construction industry to embrace and achieve digital transformation, the industry must move towards an integrated and collaborative model-centric approach. Digital ecosystems play a crucial role in this journey. A digital ecosystem comprises of interdependent organizations, people, and products that work on a shared digital ‘platform’ for the mutually beneficial purpose of creating value. Platforms that form the core of the ecosystems can be either digital or product-based. Both product platform-based and digital platform-based ecosystems are needed for the Construction 4.0 framework. In this chapter, we focus on the digital ecosystems that we envision will be the core drivers of the Construction 4.0 framework. Product-based ecosystems are discussed briefly, especially in the context of the physical-digital-physical loop. In this chapter, we define key terms, types of ecosystems, and their key characteristics. With the help of several examples, the chapter makes a case for innovation driven by digital ecosystems. Digital ecosystems can help overcome some of the mindset and cultural issues that have persistently reduced the adoption of digital technologies in our industry. For example, in an ecosystem, complementary products can be developed with lower investments to configure the digital tools to the way of working of a particular construction organization. The chapter also describes other benefits of digital ecosystems, including horizontal, vertical, and longitudinal integration. A discussion of the future needs and a road map for research is also presented. Finally, we describe the latest activity on the digital ecosystem front in the industry and provide some early indications of how the story will unfold. |
