Challenges and solutions for cross-regional collaboration in the construction industry of the GBA: using a human-AI collaborative qualitative analysis framework

Purpose Under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework, cross-regional collaboration in the construction industry of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) faces multiple barriers arising from institutional, managerial and cultural differences. Drawing on institutional theory, boundary-spanning theory and a project governance framework, this study systematically identifies challenges and solution pathways for cross-regional collaboration from the macro external environment to the micro project level. Design/methodology/approach The study examines eight representative cross-regional projects using a multi-case study design. The formal qualitative coding and cross-case analysis drew on 27 anonymized interview records from 23 unique participants across the eight cases. The broader body of primary interview material comprised approximately 200,000 Chinese characters, supplemented by field notes, project materials and secondary documentation to support contextual understanding and triangulation. The study developed a human-AI collaborative qualitative analysis framework in which ChatGPT and Google Gemini assisted axial coding and pattern identification, while researchers retained responsibility for open coding, contextual validation, final codebook decisions and theoretical interpretation. Findings The study identifies a three-level structural model of barriers and responses. Institutional heterogeneity and fragmented governance at the macro level constitute primary structural bottlenecks. These constraints increase resource costs and generate conflicts in organizational routines at the meso level, ultimately producing authority-responsibility imbalances and localization dilemmas at the micro level. To address these, the study proposes a three-level solution framework comprising macro-level institutional integration, meso-level strategic innovation and micro-level refined governance. Originality/value This study provides a comprehensive multi-level analysis of cross-regional collaboration specific to the GBA construction industry, linking macro policy research with micro-level project management. Methodologically, it documents a human-AI collaborative qualitative analysis framework in which AI assists axial coding and pattern comparison, while researchers retain responsibility for contextual interpretation and theoretical development. The findings suggest that qualification recognition, organizational capability building and project-level responsibility arrangements should be developed in concert.