Critical Systems Practice for Designing Society 5.0 Indicators in Construction

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Ali Roohi ¹

Alireza Lork ²

Mohsen Lamea ¹

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Kas.C., lslamic Azad University, Kashan, Iran

² Department of Civil Engineering, Ka.C., lslamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran

10.22067/jstinp.2026.95244.1174

Abstract

The transition toward Society 5.0 introduces a human-centric paradigm that integrates advanced digital technologies with social and industrial systems to balance economic growth with societal well-being. Within the construction industry, this vision offers significant opportunities for addressing persistent challenges such as inefficiencies, sustainability gaps, and stakeholder misalignment. This study employs Critical Systems Practice (CSP) as a meta-methodology to operationalise Society 5.0 principles in construction. Using the EPIC cycle (Explore, Produce, Intervene, Check), the research systematically engaged 11 experts to identify, refine, and validate a comprehensive set of performance indicators tailored to construction projects. The findings highlight 29 indicators that capture the multifaceted dimensions of Society 5.0 in construction, spanning cost, time, quality, sustainability, innovation, digital–physical integration, and stakeholder collaboration. By embedding Instrumental Stakeholder Theory into the CSP framework, the study ensured that both technical and social dimensions were addressed. The results demonstrate how CSP provides a structured yet flexible pathway for translating complex problem situations into actionable and context-sensitive solutions. This work contributes to the emerging discourse on Construction 5.0 by offering a systemic and participatory approach that enhances managerial decision-making, strengthens resilience, and aligns construction practices with the broader vision of Society 5.0.

Keywords

Critical Systems Practice

Society 5.0

Construction Industry

Stakeholder Engagement

Systemic Decision-Making

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