Resource management in construction projects: research trends, challenges, and the role of digital technologies

Effective resource management is critical to construction project performance and success, influencing cost, schedule, and quality outcomes. This study explores current research trends, challenges, and solutions in construction resource management. A literature review was conducted to synthesize existing research and identify key developments and challenges in resource management. The review revealed that the field has evolved through five distinct phases, ranging from early AI-based and heuristic methods to integrated scheduling, metaheuristic optimization and sustainability, data-driven modeling, and advances in digitalization, machine learning, and human-centered approaches. Key challenges, including poor communication and coordination, inaccurate resource estimation, labor shortages, and ineffective resource allocation, were identified. To validate and extend these findings, qualitative interviews were conducted with industry practitioners in Australia. Thematic analysis confirmed the persistence of these challenges and revealed additional context-specific issues. The study also examines the potential of digital tools, particularly Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), in addressing the key challenges. Findingsings emphasize the need for integrated, system-level approaches that combine technology, organizational practices, and policy-level support. This research contributes to identifying current challenges and practical solutions, supporting improved project delivery through efficient, proactive, and data-informed resource management, while strengthening organizational capability and workforce wellbeing.