Reality Capture (RC) is a state-of-the-art technology for digital data gathering and visualization of the actual environment through virtual means. In recent years, RC has contributed significantly to the digitalization of the construction industry globally. However, there are no systematic critical analyses of the benefits and challenges of RC technologies in construction project management (CPM) to drive its adoption. This research provides a detailed overview of the potential benefits and constraints of RC to tackle CPM concerns successfully and efficiently. This study uses the PRISMA procedure to conduct a systematic literature review. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria set for the study, 96 articles were considered relevant for review. The articles were analyzed using content analysis techniques to synthesize identify emerging themes. A four-step procedure was used to classify the articles into pre-construction planning, designing and construction. The review show that (a) RC is useful during the planning and designing stage, as the success of a construction project depends on accurate data to reduce the risk of cost and time overruns; (b) the benefits of RC adoption are accurate data, reduced time spent on project monitoring, progress tracking, and quality assessment; (c) RC on a construction site aids in the resolution of the industry’s fragmented nature through collaboration; quick and prompt decision making through remote monitoring and control of projects. RC is used as a visualization tool and for digital documentation of as-built models, construction verification, and flaw discovery, thereby improving work processes to achieve project success; (d) the most challenging aspect of incorporating RC on a construction site is the high investment cost. In the digital revolution era, this study could aid in the knowledge and optimal use of Reality Capture in numerous areas of CPM.

Purpose: The study aims to apply reality capture technology to enhance the cost valuation and work verification process of work completed. Construction work completed during the execution phase must be evaluated periodically to ascertain the contractor’s financial resources invested for payment. The manual process is cumbersome and time-consuming, subjective due to human intervention and often results in assumptions complicating accurate and efficient project cost management. Claim disputes and delayed payment usually arise due to a lack of clarity on the value of work completed. Design/methodology/approach: This study used proof of concept on an ongoing construction project to assess the valuation process of work done by using a reality capture (RC) technology – a drone for the acquisition of point cloud data for measurement extraction and valuation of work completed. Works verification was carried out using the as-design digital and as-built point cloud models. Findings: The valuation process becomes dependable, transparent, accurate and efficient using RC technology, which can offer detailed digital data for visual inspection and assessment by all stakeholders. Extraction of quantities of work completed for cost valuation is done using the as-built point clouds obtained from aerial imagery captured by drones. Originality/value: The study presents a practical solution by integrating RC technology into the cost valuation workflow to increase the correctness, transparency, efficiency and effective process for cost valuation, verification and payment certification. Using the potential of RC technology has enhanced communication, collaboration and coordination among the project stakeholders for seamless and timely payment approvals. This lessens the time for contractors’ claim approval since evidence of work done can be readily accessible remotely.