Barriers To Smart Building Technology Adoption Through The Lens Of Technology-Organization-Environment (Toe) In Calabar, Nigeria

Abstract

Smart building technologies are new resource that need effective adoption and integration for sustainable development in built environments. This study looked into professionals’ views on barriers to adopting smart building technology, the outcomes for building performance, and how they are connected in Calabar, Nigeria, using the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. Mixed-method approach was used to collect data from 60 survey respondents and 12 interview participants, including Architects, Engineers, Contractors, Developers, Facility Managers, and Policymakers. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique to ensure that only professionals directly involved in the design, construction, management, and regulation of buildings were included in the study.  The analysis included descriptive statistics, mean ranking, thematic analysis, and a review of policies. The findings revealed five main barriers: High Initial Costs (Mean = 4.63), Lack of Technical Skills (Mean = 4.41), Weak Regulatory Support (Mean = 4.15), Low Public Awareness (Mean = 3.87), and Limited Technology Availability (Mean = 3.72). The results also showed different priorities among professionals: developers concentrate on costs, engineers prioritize technical skills, policymakers deal with regulatory issues, and facility managers focus on maintenance challenges. Mean ranking analysis confirmed these differences among stakeholder groups, showing varied views on adoption barriers. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive links between overcoming barriers, especially through “Skills Development,” “Regulatory Support,” and “Strengthened Supply Chains,” and key building performance outcomes such as “Operational Efficiency,” “Energy Savings,” and “Occupant Satisfaction.” This strongly suggests that tackling economic, technical, and institutional challenges collaboratively will improve the integration and performance of smart buildings in developing cities like Calabar. In conclusion, the study establishes that addressing these barriers is essential to achieving higher efficiency, sustainability, and functionality in the built environment. It is therefore recommended that policymakers strengthen regulatory frameworks, professionals pursue continuous skill development, and developers explore innovative financing models to reduce cost burdens and promote widespread adoption of smart building technologies in Nigeria and similar developing contexts.