ORIGINAL RESEARCH article
Front. Built Environ.
Sec. Sustainable Design and Construction
A Theoretical Readiness Model for 3D Printing Technology in Architectural Construction Industry
Provisionally accepted
- 1University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
- 2University of Moratuwa, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
- 3Tsukuba Daigaku, Tsukuba, Japan
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This study introduces a tailored Theoretical Readiness Model for evaluating the readiness of the architectural construction industry in developing contexts, with Sri Lanka as a case, to adopt Construction 3D Printing for custom housing. The unique challenges faced by developing countries underscore the need to address localized contexts and technology adoption dynamics, distinguishing this model from existing readiness frameworks. Development of the model was initiated through a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis across five key domains: technological, organizational & environmental, psychological, localise context, and adoption dynamics. A theoretical indicator set was constructed and empirically tested through expert validation, reliability analysis, and factor loading. This process resulted in a 19-component index spanning five key domains, in which Technology, Organization, and Environment emerge as positive indicators, while Psychology and Localized Context act as negative influences, with adoption dynamics reflecting both dimensions in relation to C3DP uptake. A practical self-assessment tool was developed, allowing stakeholders to measure their preparedness and identify critical gaps. The model provides a structured, context-sensitive framework for guiding strategic decision-making in technology adoption within the construction sector. It offers not only a pathway for assessing readiness in Sri Lanka but also a scalable approach adaptable to other developing economies with similar challenges. The study contributes to advancing digital construction by aligning theoretical insights with real-world application.
Keywords: 3D printing, architecture, Construction, Readiness model, index
Received: 22 Sep 2025; Accepted: 24 Nov 2025.
Copyright: © 2025 Ruvindi Silva, Rajapaksha, Jayasuriya, Katugaha and Udawattha. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) or licensor are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
* Correspondence: Neesha Ruvindi Silva
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