The recognition of the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and human–robot collaboration (HRC) to enhance megaproject performance (MPP) is widespread, among both academic and industry professionals. The claim, however, lacks evidence; there is no empirical research that has examined the impact of AI and HRC in a single integrated framework to enhance MPP. Therefore, this study explores the integration of AI and HRC to enhance MPP, the mediating role of BIM-integration management (BIM-IM) and the moderating role of top management support (TMS). A mixed-methods approach was utilized, gathered quantitative data from 314 construction professionals in Henan, China and qualitative insights from interviews with 20 industry professionals and academics. Partial-least square structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypothesis. The findings revealed that AI and HRC significantly positively enhance MPP, with HRC demonstrating stronger impact. BIM-IM plays a key mediating role, strengthening the indirect impact of AI algorithms on MPP. Interestingly, TMS significantly negatively moderates the relationship between HRC and MPP. Based on Chinese experts’ technological immaturity, top-down decision-making directives, misaligned managerial perceptions, cultural resistance, and cross-disciplinary skill gaps may weaken the influence of TMS in practice. The findings confirm that flexible managerial skills, together with BIM-IM, can further strengthen AI and HRC effectiveness. Fostering positive narratives and a transformational managerial approach supports the collaborative impact of human and technological synergism, hence enhancing project performance. Finally, the task–technology fit framework was adopted as a guiding perspective to illustrate how managerial support produces conditional effects in technology-enabled project circumstances. Thus, this research contributes both novel empirical and theoretical evidence on the strategic alignment of AI, HRC, and BIM-IM to enhance megaproject performance.
Ali et al. (Wed,) studied this question.