Effect of Advanced Project Management Technologies on Road Project Performance: A Qualitative Study of Road Development Agency in Zambia

Abstract

With an emphasis on the Road Development Agency (RDA), this study investigates how cutting-edge project management technologies affect road development projects in Zambia. The study explores how advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), building information modeling (BIM), the internet of things (IoT), robotics, drones, and predictive analytics can improve project performance in light of the challenges faced by road projects, including delays, cost overruns, and quality issues. Using a qualitative methodology involving case studies and semi-structured interviews with RDA engineers, the study examines how these technologies can be integrated into road projects to enhance efficiency, safety, cost management, and stakeholder satisfaction. The findings reveal that technologies like BIM, AI, and IoT have the potential to optimize road planning, reduce construction costs, and improve quality by providing real-time data and enabling better decision-making. However, the study also identifies significant challenges, such as high upfront costs, resistance to change, and a shortage of skilled personnel. To address these barriers, the study recommends enhancing workforce training, standardizing digital platforms, and fostering a culture of innovation. The research underscores the importance of strategic technology integration to improve project delivery and support Zambia’s sustainable infrastructure development, aligning with the nation’s broader socioeconomic goals. Keywords: Road Development Agency, project management technologies, artificial intelligence, building information modeling, internet of things, predictive analytics, sustainable infrastructure, Zambia.