Assessment of the Digital Transformation in the Construction Industry: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Economic Belt

China's construction industry is undergoing rapid digitalization through the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, the spatial distribution of digital adoption remains poorly understood. This study assesses digital transformation levels across the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) from ۲۰۱۱ to ۲۰۲۱, examining regional disparities and the barriers impeding further digitalization. Utilizing a comprehensive evaluation index system encompassing digital infrastructure, investment, applications, and sustainability indicators, the analysis reveals pronounced spatial heterogeneity. The downstream region exhibits advanced digital adoption, while the upstream and midstream regions encounter significant challenges related to inadequate technological infrastructure, insufficient investment, and digital skill shortages. The regional gap between the highest and lowest provincial scores reaches ۰.۲۲۶ in ۲۰۲۱, demonstrating persistent disparities. The study contributes a validated assessment framework, theoretical grounding through the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, and policy recommendations differentiated by regional readiness levels. These findings have significant implications for policymakers seeking to promote balanced digital transformation across the YREB.

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Keywords: Digital Transformation ، Construction Industry ، Yangtze River Economic Belt ، Regional Disparities ، Technological Infrastructure ، policy recommendation