Competencies required to manage risks in Industry 4.0 era: Perspectives of Zimbabwean construction project managers

Abstract

The advent of Industry 4.0 has brought new risks that construction project managers should manage in the construction industry. This study sought to investigate the required construction project managers’ competencies in Zimbabwe to manage risks in the I4.0 era. Utilising a quantitative approach, 55 questionnaires were administered to gather insights from construction project managers in Zimbabwe. Through statistical analysis, the findings highlight the importance of both hard and soft skills particularly technological literacy, data analysis, strategic thinking, communication, and adaptability in managing risks associated with I4.0 technologies. The study concludes that while hard skills are fundamental in addressing risks in the I4.0 era, soft skills are more critical. Consequently, it is recommended that construction project managers be trained in soft skills. However, the results of the study cannot be generalised to all contexts, though the findings could be useful in informing policy, curriculum, and strategic decisions in the construction industry.