Digital twins are increasingly recognised as a key enabler of digital transformation across the construction sector. By linking digital models with real-world data, they have the potential to improve project delivery, enhance operational performance, support sustainability goals, and enable more informed decision-making throughout the asset lifecycle. However, despite growing interest in adopting digital twins, many organisations continue to face the challenge of determining what level of digital twin maturity is appropriate for their specific project.

This research funded through the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Construction Innovation & Quality Scholarship 2024 addresses this challenge by developing a practical Decision Support Tool that helps construction professionals assess digital twin maturity requirements and align technology adoption with project objectives. Rather than assuming that more sophisticated digital twins automatically deliver better outcomes, the research demonstrates that success depends on selecting the most suitable level of maturity based on project needs and an organisation's current capabilities.

The project introduces a multidimensional framework that evaluates digital twin maturity across data and technology, business integration, decision-making support, and the relationship between digital and physical twins. Built on this framework, the Decision Support Tool enables project teams to identify the most suitable maturity range for their projects, assess capability gaps, and explore implementation pathways that maximise value while avoiding unnecessary investment. 

Published in the American Society of Civil Engineers Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, the research provides both academic insight and practical guidance for industry professionals. By shifting the conversation from technology-led adoption to purpose-driven decision-making, the study offers a new approach to helping organisations implement digital twins more effectively and confidently in an increasingly digital construction environment.

Key takeaway:

“The most successful digital twin is not necessarily the most advanced one, but the one with a level of maturity that best aligns with project objectives, organisational capabilities, and decision-making requirements.”