Future technologies and project control

COMMENTARY

By Dr Dimitris Antoniadis

DANTON ProgM Ltd

London, UK

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) presents significant technological disruption, forcing project management and control professionals to embrace new digital tools. In this article the author explores how technologies, particularly Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI), are fundamentally transforming project delivery, monitoring, and control processes, especially within the construction sector. These technologies address persistent industry challenges, such as low productivity and lack of trust, by enhancing data integration, transparency, accuracy, and operational efficiencies. Using case studies and conceptual frameworks, this article illustrates how AI leverages standard structures (i.e. Work Breakdown Structure, etc.) to automate tasks and provide predictive insights, while Blockchain ensures secure, transparent transaction record keeping via mechanisms like Smart Contracts. However, realising these benefits requires systemic transformation, a focus on cultural change, and maintaining the critical ‘human in the loop‘ for successful decision-making.

Introduction

The modern project environment operates within conditions characterised as VUCA: Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous. Navigating this reality demands not just incremental improvement but fundamental organisational and technological transformation. We are firmly in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), which is characterised by rapid, continuous, and momentous technological changes where the potential for disruption is and will be ever present.

In industries such as construction, this technological necessity is vital for tackling long-standing productivity issues. The integration, accuracy, transparency, speed of data transfer, and trustworthiness of project data/information are essential for sound decision-making and effective project control. Traditionally, the industry has faced challenges due to a lack of data and software tool integration, poor management of the design process, and disrupted workflows.

The current response involves leveraging advanced technologies, primarily blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI), alongside existing digital techniques such as building information modelling (BIM) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Blockchain introduces mechanisms such as automated workflows, transparency, and legally binding smart contracts, creating a catalyst for change, especially in supply chain management and payment security. Concurrently, AI leverages machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), and predictive analytics to revolutionise project control processes, enabling project controllers to be proactive rather than reactive.

The objective of this article is to explore the intersection of these technologies and project control, detailing the underpinning theory, presenting practical examples, and discussing the necessary systemic and cultural changes required for successful adoption and maximised benefit.

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How to cite this work: Antoniadis, D. (2026).  Future technologies and project control, commentary, PM World Journal, Vol. XV, Issue II, February.  Available online at https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/pmwj161-Feb2026-Antoniadis-Future-technologies-and-project-control.pdf

About the Author

Dr. Dimitris N. Antoniadis

London, UK

Dr Dimitris N. Antoniadis PhD MSc BEng(1^st) CEng FAPM FCMI MIMechE, based in UK, has 35+ years’ experience in Programme and Project Management positions, having covered project phases from concept to handover and operation / maintenance.

He is currently Director in the Programme, Project Management and PMO with DANTON PROGM, technical advisor to Novacept and has set up the BSc in Project Control that is currently delivered by the partnership between London Metropolitan College and the University of West London.

He has held Senior Management posts in major utilities, infrastructure and construction organisations delivering programmes of works ranging from £250M to £3.2Bn. As Head of Programme Management Office (PMO) he has set up and run the departments within challenging partnering environments, setting up all the processes from governance to reporting. He has also led / co-led major business transformation programmes for Client organisations in UK and abroad, integrating project management software tools with ERP systems.

He is the author of the book ‘Demystifying Project Control’; contributed chapters in books on complexity, leadership and other project management topics and has written a number of journal and conference papers. He has been a guest speaker at UK Universities as well as International conferences on various project management topics.

He was awarded the PhD, from Loughborough University, UK, on the subject of ‘Managing Complexity in Project Teams’, where he developed a framework for managing the effects of complexity on projects.

Parts of his work can be seen in www.danton-progm.co.uk

His book Demystifying Project Control can be purchased from:  https://amzn.to/2Jm1Zeh

Dr. Antoniadis can be contacted at dnanton00@gmail.com

To view other works by Dr. Antoniadis, visit his author showcase in the PM World Library at https://pmworldlibrary.net/authors/dr-dimitris-n-antoniadis/