From appraisal to adaptation: a dual-path model of construction project management professionals' job crafting in response to emerging smart technologies

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Purpose Emerging smart technologies (EST) – such as building information modeling, big data, cloud computing and robotics – have profoundly reshaped workflows and workplace behaviors in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Although extensive research has investigated the multi-level driving factors of EST implementation, little is known about its downstream effects on construction project management professionals' psychological and behavioral responses. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on the transactional model of stress and self-determination theory, this study develops a “stress appraisal–psychological state–behavior response” theoretical model and empirically tests it using 315 construction project management professional samples. Findings The findings show that challenge appraisal of EST implementation is positively associated with role breadth self-efficacy, whereas hindrance appraisal is positively related to ego depletion. Furthermore, role breadth self-efficacy and ego depletion are found to mediate the relationships between challenge appraisal and hindrance appraisal and the three forms of job crafting, respectively. Moreover, conscientiousness strengthens the relationship between hindrance appraisal of EST implementation and ego depletion, while its moderating effect on the link between challenge appraisal and role breadth self-efficacy is not supported. Originality/value These findings contribute to the body of knowledge on individual-level psychological and behavioral adaptation to EST implementation in construction management. These findings offer valuable insights for managers to maximize the benefits of EST in projects by recognizing its double-sword role and driving the AEC industry's continued digital transformation.