Factors affecting knowledge sharing in blockchain technology in the Chinese construction industry
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2026.25510Abstract
With the emergence of blockchain technology, knowledge sharing has become increasingly important for gaining a competitive advantage in any industry. However, it has not been fully implemented in the construction industry. This paper examines the factors influencing knowledge sharing in blockchain technology, using the Chinese construction industry as a case study. First, the study identified the key factors affecting knowledge sharing through a literature review and construction market research, classifying them based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) framework. Next, the study employed focus group discussions to explore the relationships between pairs of factors and applied the interpretive structural modeling-matrix of cross-impact multiplication applied to classification (ISM-MICMAC) method to evaluate and prioritize these key factors. Finally, based on the empirical analysis, the paper discusses measures to promote knowledge sharing in the construction industry. This study contributes to the academic understanding of the factors influencing knowledge sharing and offers a fresh perspective for future research. Additionally, it provides practical insights to help the construction industry gain a competitive advantage and achieve sustainable development.
Keywords:
blockchain technology, construction industry, influencing factor, ISM-MICMAC method, knowledge sharing, TOE theoryHow to Cite
Share
License
Copyright (c) 2026 The Author(s). Published by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
References
Abu Adi, W., Hiyassat, M., & Lepkova, N. (2021). Business strategy development model for applying knowledge management in construction. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 27(4), 246–259. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2021.14651
Adegoriola, M. I., Lai, J. H. K., & Abidoye, R. (2023). Critical success factors of heritage building maintenance management: An ISM-MICMAC analysis. Journal of Building Engineering, 75, Article 106941. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2023.106941
Adel, K., Elhakeem, A., & Marzouk, M. (2023). Decentralized system for construction projects data management using blockchain and IPFS. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 29(4), 342–359. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2023.18646
Akosile, A., & Olatokun, W. (2020). Factors influencing knowledge sharing among academics in Bowen University, Nigeria. Journal of Librarianship and Information Science, 52(2), 410–427. https://doi.org/10.1177/0961000618820926
Alam, S., Zhang, J., Shehzad, M. U., Khan, N., & Ali, A. (2023). Mediation approach of knowledge management process towards supply chain performance under green technology: An empirical analysis. Business Process Management Journal, 29(5), 1466–1490. https://doi.org/10.1108/bpmj-01-2023-0045
Asparouhov, T., Hamaker, E. L., & Muthen, B. (2018). Dynamic structural equation models. Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal, 25(3), 359–388. https://doi.org/10.1080/10705511.2017.1406803
Attri, R., Ashishpal, Khan, N. Z., Siddiquee, A. N., & Khan, Z. A. (2020). ISM-MICMAC approach for evaluating the critical success factors of 5S implementation in manufacturing organisations. International Journal of Business Excellence, 20(4), 521–548. https://doi.org/10.1504/ijbex.2020.106437
Azeem, M., Ahmed, M., Haider, S., & Sajjad, M. (2021). Expanding competitive advantage through organizational culture, knowledge sharing and organizational innovation. Technology in Society, 66(12), 635–645. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techsoc.2021.101635
Bakic-Miric, N. (2010). An integrated approach to communication theory and research. European Journal of Communication, 25(1), 94–96. https://doi.org/10.1177/02673231100250010705
Beinke, J. H., Fitte, C., & Teuteberg, F. (2019). Towards a stakeholder-oriented blockchain-based architecture for electronic health records: Design science research study. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 21(10), 139–153. https://doi.org/10.2196/13585
Chen, B., Liu, Q., Chen, H., Wang, L., Deng, T., Zhang, L., & Wu, X. (2021). Multiobjective optimization of building energy consumption based on BIM-DB and LSSVM-NSGA-II. Journal of Cleaner Production, 294, 246–263. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.126153
Cheng, M. Y., Liu, G. L., Xu, Y. S., & Chi, M. (2024). What hinders Internet of Things (IOT) adoption in the Chinese construction industry: A mixed-method. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 30(1), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2024.19961
Cormican, K., Meng, C., Sampaio, S., & Wu, Q. (2021). Towards sustainable knowledge sharing practices: An analysis of organizational level enablers. Sustainability, 13(23), Article 12934. https://doi.org/10.3390/su132312934
Dubey, R., Gunasekaran, A., Papadopoulos, T., Childe, S. J., Shibin, K. T., & Wamba, S. F. (2017). Sustainable supply chain management: Framework and further research directions. Journal of Cleaner Production, 142, 1119–1130. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2016.03.117
Fang, W. P., Wan, L., & Zhou, L. (2024). The impact of cooperative communication on co-innovation performance: The mediating role of knowledge sharing. Chinese Management Studies, 18(5), 1537–1558. https://doi.org/10.1108/cms-08-2022-0284
Gangwar, H., Date, H., & Ramaswamy, R. (2015). Understanding determinants of cloud computing adoption using an integrated TAM-TOE model. Journal of Enterprise Information Management, 28(1), 107–130. https://doi.org/10.1108/jeim-08-2013-0065
Hsu, C. L., Wang, J. T., & Hou, H. Y. (2023). A blockchain-based parametric model library for knowledge sharing in building information modeling collaboration. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 149(11), 123–145. https://doi.org/10.1061/JCEMD4.COENG-13060
Huang, S., Wang, B., Li, X., Zheng, P., Mourtzis, D., & Wang, L. (2022). Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0-Comparison, complementation and co-evolution. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 64, 424–428. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmsy.2022.07.010
Ishdorj, S., Ahn, C. R., & Park, M. (2024). Major factors influencing safety knowledge-sharing behaviors of construction field workers: Worker-to-Worker level safety communication. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 150(4), 121–134. https://doi.org/10.1061/JCEMD4.COENG-14121
Jin, X., Yin, M., Zhou, Z., & Yu, X. (2021). The differential effects of trusting beliefs on social media users’ willingness to adopt and share health knowledge. Information Processing & Management, 58(1), Article 102413. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ipm.2020.102413
Kale, S., & Karaman, A. E. (2012). Benchmarking the knowledge management practices of construction firms. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 18(3), 335–344. https://doi.org/10.3846/13923730.2012.698910
Karmaker, C. L., Bari, A. B. M. M., Anam, M. Z., Ahmed, T., Ali, S. M., Pacheco, D. A. d. J., & Moktadir, M. A. (2023). Industry 5.0 challenges for post-pandemic supply chain sustainability in an emerging economy. International Journal of Production Economics, 258, Article 108806. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpe.2023.108806
Kiomjian, D., Srour, I., & Srour, F. J. (2020). Knowledge sharing and productivity improvement: An agent-based modeling approach. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 146(7), 413–428. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)CO.1943-7862.0001866
Konstantinides, S. V., Meyer, G., Becattini, C., Bueno, H., Geersing, G.-J., Harjola, V.-P., Huisman, M. V., Humbert, M., Jennings, C. S., Jiménez, D., Kucher, N., Lang, I. M., Lankeit, M., Lorusso, R., Mazzolai, L., Meneveau, N., Áinle, F. N., Prandoni, P., Pruszczyk, P., Righini, M., Torbicki, A., Van Belle, E., Zamorano, J. L., & ESC Scientific Document Group (2020). 2019 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism developed in collaboration with the European Respiratory Society (ERS): The Task Force for the diagnosis and management of acute pulmonary embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). European Heart Journal, 41(4), 543–603. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehz405
Kuo, T. T., Kim, H. E., & Ohno-Machado, L. (2017). Blockchain distributed ledger technologies for biomedical and health care applications. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 24(6), 1211–1220. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocx068
Le, Q. N., & Tuamsuk, K. (2023). Motivational factors promoting knowledge sharing in the non-profit sector in Thailand. Information Development, 39(2), 333–343. https://doi.org/10.1177/02666669211047914
Li, X. J. (2020). Research on investment risk influence factors of prefabricated building projects. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 26(7), 599–613. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2020.12917
Li, Z. W., Li, Q. G., Zhang, R. R., & Xie, N. X. (2016). Knowledge structures in a knowledge base. Expert Systems, 33(6), 581–591. https://doi.org/10.1111/exsy.12183
Liang, Y., Liu, Q., Jiang, H., & Gao, T. (2023). Research on the coupled relationship of factors influencing construction workers’ unsafe behaviors: A hybrid DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC approach. Advances in Civil Engineering, 4, 547–557. https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/5570547
Lin, Y. C. (2014). Construction 3D BIM-based knowledge management system: A case study. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 20(2), 186–200. https://doi.org/10.3846/13923730.2013.801887
Liu, H., Skibniewski, M. J., & Wang, M. J. (2016). Identifaction and hierarchical structure of critical success factors for innovation in construction projects: Chinese perspective. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 22(3), 401–416. https://doi.org/10.3846/13923730.2014.975739
Ma, S. B., Li, Z. F., Li, L., Yuan, M. Q., & Yin, X. F. (2023). Exploring the effect of stakeholder relationship quality on technological innovation in off-site construction: The mediating role of the knowledge sharing. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 29(1), 77–92. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2022.17870
Malki, A., Badaya, M. B., Dekker, R., Verkerke, G. J., & Hijmans, J. M. (2024). Effects of individually optimized rocker midsoles and self-adjusting insoles on plantar pressure in persons with diabetes mellitus and loss of protective sensation. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 207(23), 325–344. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2023.111077
Mangla, S. K., Luthra, S., Mishra, N., Singh, A., Rana, N. P., Dora, M., & Dwivedi, Y. (2018). Barriers to effective circular supply chain management in a developing country context. Production Planning & Control, 29(6), 551–569. https://doi.org/10.1080/09537287.2018.1449265
Mathivathanan, D., Mathiyazhagan, K., Rana, N. P., Khorana, S., & Dwivedi, Y. K. (2021). Barriers to the adoption of blockchain technology in business supply chains: a total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) approach. International Journal of Production Research, 59(11), 3338–3359. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207543.2020.1868597
Mathiyazhagan, K., Govindan, K., NoorulHaq, A., & Geng, Y. (2013). An ISM approach for the barrier analysis in implementing green supply chain management. Journal of Cleaner Production, 47, 283–297. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2012.10.042
Matosková, J., Bartók, O., & Tomancová, L. (2022). The relation between employee characteristics and knowledge sharing. Vine Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, 52(4), 486–507. https://doi.org/10.1108/VJIKMS-05-2020-0092
Naheed, R., Waqas, M., Ahmad, N., Iqbal, M., & Ismail, M. (2024). Fostering sustainability and green innovation reporting in manufacturing firms: An investigation of barriers through ISM-MICMAC approach. Environment Development and Sustainability, 12(8), 157–172. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-024-04771-7
Nguyen, K. N., & Do, T. D. (2021). Factors influencing knowledge sharing in higher education: An emperical study of students in Vietnam. Journal of Organizational Behavior Research, 6(2), 134–151. https://doi.org/10.51847/LJZB9XoP0F
Ni, G. D., Zhang, Z. Y., Yuan, Z. M., Huang, H. T., Xu, N., & Deng, Y. L. (2022). Transformation paths and influencing factors of tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge in real estate companies: A qualitative study. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 29(3), 1319–1342. https://doi.org/10.1108/ecam-09-2020-0677
Olan, F., Arakpogun, E. O., Suklan, J., Nakpodia, F., Damij, N., & Jayawickrama, U. (2022). Artificial intelligence and knowledge sharing: Contributing factors to organizational performance. Journal of Business Research, 145(22), 605–615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2022.03.008
Philsoophian, M., Akhavan, P., & Namvar, M. (2022). The mediating role of blockchain technology in improvement of knowledge sharing for supply chain management. Management Decision, 60(3), 784–805. https://doi.org/10.1108/md-08-2020-1122
Qiao, S., Wang, Q. K., Guo, Z., & Guo, J. Y. (2021). Collaborative innovation activities and BIM application on innovation capability in construction supply chain: Mediating role of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 147(12), 168–180. https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)co.1943-7862.0002197
Qin, X., Shi, Y., Lyu, K. C., & Mo, Y. Y. (2020). Uaing a TAM-TOE model to explore factors of Building Information Modeling (BIM) adoption in the construction industry. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 26(3), 259–277. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2020.12176
Razmerita, L., Kirchner, K., & Nielsen, P. (2016). What factors influence knowledge sharing in organizations? A social dilemma perspective of social media communication. Journal of Knowledge Management, 20(6), 1225–1246. https://doi.org/10.1108/jkm-03-2016-0112
Rupa, C., Midhunchakkaravarthy, D., Hasan, M. K., Alhumyani, H., & Saeed, R. A. (2021). Industry 5.0: Ethereum blockchain technology based DApp smart contract. Mathematical Biosciences and Engineering, 18(5), 7010–7027. https://doi.org/10.3934/mbe.2021349
Sanka, A. I., Irfan, M., Huang, I., & Cheung, R. C. C. (2021). A survey of breakthrough in blockchain technology: Adoptions, applications, challenges and future research. Computer Communications, 169(6), 179–201. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.comcom.2020.12.028
Shweta, C., & Kumar, D. (2023). Qualitative exploration of the issues of Indian generic medicine supply chain using ISM-MICMAC. International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 11(3), 291–316. https://doi.org/10.1504/ijlsm.2023.132984
Si, H., & Zou, P. (2021). Shared innovation, social exchange and knowledge sharing mechanisms for new organizations. Journal of Yunnan Minzu University (Philosophy and Social Sciences Edition), 38(2), 78–88. https://doi.org/10.13727/j.cnki.53-1191/c.2021.02.009
Ullah, S., Ahmad, N., Khan, F. U., Badulescu, A., & Badulescu, D. (2021). Mapping interactions among green Innovations barriers in manufacturing industry using hybrid methodology: Insights from a developing country. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(15), 197–216. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157885
Ullah, S., Jianjun, Z., Hayat, K., Palmucci, D. N., & Durana, P. (2024). Exploring the factors for open innovation in post-COVID-19 conditions by fuzzy Delphi-ISM-MICMAC approach. European Journal of Innovation Management, 27(5), 1679–1703. https://doi.org/10.1108/ejim-10-2022-0550
Vuori, V., & Okkonen, J. (2012). Knowledge sharing motivational factors of using an intra-organizational social media platform. Journal of Knowledge Management, 16(4), 592–603. https://doi.org/10.1108/13673271211246167
Wanberg, J., Javernick-Will, A., & Taylor, J. E. (2017). Mechanisms to initiate knowledge-sharing connections in communities of practice. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 143(11), 401–417. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)CO.1943-7862.0001399
Wang, J., & Liu, L. (2019). Study on the mechanism of customers’ participation in knowledge sharing. Expert Systems, 36(5), 123–167. https://doi.org/10.1111/exsy.12367
Wang, Y. S., Li, H. T., Li, C. R., & Zhang, D. Z. (2016). Factors affecting hotels’ adoption of mobile reservation systems: A technology-organization-environment framework. Tourism Management, 53, 163–172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2015.09.021
Wang, M., Wang, Y., & Mardani, A. (2023). Empirical analysis of the influencing factors of knowledge sharing in industrial technology innovation strategic alliances. Journal of Business Research, 157, 133–165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2022.113635
Xie, R., & Zhang, W. (2023). Online knowledge sharing in blockchains towards increasing participation. Management Decision, 61(7), 2050–2072. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-06-2022-0767
Xu, Y. S., Chi, M., Chong, H. Y., Lee, C. Y., & Chen, K. Y. (2024). When BIM meets blockchain: A mixed-method literature review. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 30(7), 646–669. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2024.21638
Yang, Y. T., Zhao, B., & Liu, Q. L. (2024). Exploring the driving mechanism and path of BIM for green buildings. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 30(1), 67–84. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2024.20826
Yepes, V., & López, S. (2021). Knowledge management in the construction industry: Current state of knowledge and future research. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 27(8), 671–680. https://doi.org/10.3846/jcem.2021.16006
Zhang, L., & He, J. (2016). Critical factors affecting tacit-knowledge sharing within the integrated project team. Journal of Management in Engineering, 32(2), 140–156. https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)ME.1943-5479.0000402
Zhang, L. M., Wu, X. G., Ding, L. Y., Skibniewski, M. J., & Lu, Y. J. (2016). BIM-based risk identification system in tunnel construction. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 22(4), 529–539. https://doi.org/10.3846/13923730.2015.1023348
Zhuo, C., & Chen, J. (2023). Can digital transformation overcome the enterprise innovation dilemma: Effect, mechanism and effective boundary. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 190(14), 140–162. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2023.122378
View article in other formats
Published
Issue
Section
Copyright
Copyright (c) 2026 The Author(s). Published by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University.
License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.