Information Traceability Platforms For Asset Data Lifecycle: Blockchain-based Technologies

Purpose The emergence of new digital technologies in the era of the fourth industrial revolution

presents a turning point that could change the fate of the traditional ways of designing, building and

managing asset data. Modern technologies such as Blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) are some

of the main pillars that are driving this revolutionlife. The integration of decentralised networks and

automated workflows have the potential to become a pivotal factor in construction projects, especially

in supply chain ecosystems within the offsite manufacturing field. Obstacles related to fragmented

information, interoperability, transparency, and `big data` management are the main drivers for change

that the industry needs to address. Whilst organisations and users can automate workflows and

processes by utilising IoT technology to transfer data without human-to-human or human-to-computer

interaction, the interaction, storage, and management of the data generated are not safe or reliable.

Design/methodology/approach The approach outlined in this paper addresses the challenges that

IoT and centralised networks present. Blockchain, a peer-to-peer distributed database, offers the

possibility to support and maintain the asset information without interruptions in all the stages of the

lifecycle. The synergy between these technologies, along with other techniques, methods, and platforms

(such as BIM), based on a single environment, will support information traceability from the Strategic

Definition to End of Life.

Findings The framework of this study presents an excellent opportunity to apply new workflows

and processes with the application of new technologies and protocols. It benefits from a well-established

platform such as BIM to enable the coordination and management of digital assets as well as giving

illustration and collaboration to the supply chain members. IoT and Blockchain are the other layers that

work together with the third layer (BIM). This framework proposed the use of these platforms to ensure

the information traceability of physical and digital assets, data automation and information

management, in a dynamic supply chain ecosystem, bringing efficiency and transparency to

stakeholders and users.

Practical Implications This study provides an exploratory framework to be used by the supply chain

members in offsite manufacturing, and the AEC industry in general, to track asset information

throughout their entire lifecycle securely and transparently.

Originality/value This paper contributes to the knowledge of IoT, Blockchain technology and BIM

use in offsite manufacturing under the AEC industry. It provides a basis for future research by

professionals, experts and academics regarding these technologies and their workflows.

Keywords: Blockchain (BCT), Smart Contracts (SC), Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Offsite

Manufacturing (OSM), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Data Analysis and Management,

Traceability, Industry 4.0.