Digitalisation of Quality Management Systems in Construction Industry: A Conceptual Exploration

Abstract

Although Quality Management Systems (QMS) play a critical role in ensuring consistency, performance, and sustainability in construction projects, traditional practices often fall short in addressing the sector’s rapidly digitalizing and highly fragmented nature. Quality 4.0 emphasizes the value of emerging technologies, yet existing interpretations remain broad and do not fully reflect the operational realities of construction. This study reinterprets Quality 4.0 principles from a construction-specific perspective and examines how digital tools can be systematically integrated into core quality functions. Using a structured review of current literature and sectoral practices, the research develops an adaptive framework that links technological capabilities with inspection, documentation, communication, and continuous improvement processes.The results show that effective digital integration requires rethinking quality workflows through complexity, uncertainty, and non-linear project dynamics. The proposed framework offers a targeted approach to modernizing QMS and enhancing transparency, decision-making, and overall project performance in construction.