Blockchain-Integrated Relational Project Governance

Traditional contractual project governance often struggles to address the trust and collaboration challenges inherent in construction projects, which are characterized by fragmented teams, adversarial relationships, and rigid control mechanisms. Existing tools tend to prioritize compliance and monitoring rather than fostering long-term relational trust, resulting in delays, cost overruns, and reduced quality. This study addresses these challenges by posing the following research question: How can blockchain technology enhance relational project governance (RPG) to improve trust and collaboration in construction projects? To answer this question, a blockchain-integrated relational project governance (BRPG) model was developed and evaluated using a design science research (DSR) methodology, combining theoretical grounding with iterative design and validation cycles. The model leverages blockchain’s secure, transparent, and immutable features to strengthen the trust-building dimensions of RPG—mutuality, flexibility, and solidarity. Results show that BRPG not only balances contractual and relational mechanisms but also significantly improves interorganizational trust and governance efficiency. This study contributes both theoretically and practically by offering an actionable governance framework for blockchain-enabled construction environments. Future research should focus on testing BRPG in large-scale, real-world projects and exploring its integration with other digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital twins to enhance governance intelligence.