Quantitative evaluation of smart construction pilot cities policies in China based on the PMC-index model

Purpose The construction industry has experienced an irreversible digital transformation to smart construction. Many countries have published supporting policies to encourage the development of smart construction. However, there is no universally valid approach. This paper thus aims to evaluate smart construction policies issued by 24 pilot cities in China and identify applicable policy tools and their impact. Design/methodology/approach This paper collected 33 governmental documents on smart construction through the official websites in China. Different policy tools were classified into supply-side, demand-side and environment-side categories. The supporting policies of smart construction development in pilot cities were quantitatively evaluated by using a policy modeling consistency index (PMC-index) model. Findings Supply-type and environment-type policy instruments were used more frequently than demand-type policies in 24 pilot cities. Most of the 24 pilot cities had an evaluation of PMC-index over 8, realizing the consistency of smart construction policies. Eight pilot cities had an evaluation of PMC-index of 6–7.99, realizing acceptable consistency. Only Foshan City has an evaluation of PMC-index below 4, which may reflect a poor consistency of policy implementation. The paper proposes consistencies of smart construction policies of 24 pilot cities and valid policy instruments, including the presale of commercial residential buildings, additional bonus points in the tendering process and cooperating with multiple departments when promoting smart construction. Originality/value This paper contributes to expanding policy evaluation studies in the smart construction field and provides concrete suggestions for policymakers to formulate more effective and specific policies and strategies for the development of smart construction.