Global Journal of Management and Business Research, G: Interdisciplinary, Volume 23 Issue 1

for stakeholders to navigate the contractual landscape. This can result in disputes, delays, and increased costs for projects. 2. Dispute Resolution: The construction industry in Saudi Arabia is characterized by a high number of disputes, often attributed to ambiguities in contract terms, differing interpretations, and inadequate dispute resolution mechanisms. Traditional litigation can be time-consuming and costly, leading to a growing interest in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as arbitration and mediation. 3. Stakeholder Collaboration: Effective contract administration requires collaboration and communication among all stakeholders involved in a project. However, the siloed nature of the construction industry, combined with cultural and organizational barriers, can hinder efficient collaboration, leading to misunder-standings, delays and disputes. IV. P otential B enefits of A dopting G igital T echnologies The adoption of digital technologies can help address some of the challenges faced in contract administration within the Saudi Arabian construction industry. Key technologies that can contribute to improved contract administration practices include: Building Information Modeling (BIM): BIM is a collaborative process involving the creation and management of digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of a facility. BIM can improve contract administration by enhancing communication and collaboration among stakeholders, providing a single source of project information, and facilitating more efficient management of project schedules, budgets, and resources. Blockchain: Blockchain technology enables secure, transparent, and tamper- proof digital transactions through a decentralized ledger system. In contract administration, blockchain can be used to create smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms directly written into code. Smart contracts can automate various contract administration tasks, improve transparency, and reduce disputes arising from human errors or misinterpretations. Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI can be used in contract administration to automate routine tasks, such as document review and data analysis, leading to increased efficiency and reduced human errors. Additionally, AI-powered tools can assist in risk identification and mitigation, design optimization, and resource allocation, contributing to more effective contract administration. V. I mplications and R ecommendations The adoption of digital technologies and improvements in contract administration practices have significant implications for stakeholders in the Saudi Arabian construction industry: Enhance efficiency and reduce disputes through standardized contract templates and processes. Promote the use of alternative dispute resolution methods to resolve disputes more efficiently and cost-effectively. Encourage the adoption of digital technologies, such as BIM, blockchain, and AI, to streamline contract administration processes and improve collaboration among stakeholders. Invest in the development of an industry- wide digital strategy to facilitate the integration of digital technologies and best practices in contract administration. Foster educational and training programs to develop the necessary skills and competencies in contract administration and digital technologies. VI. C onclusion In conclusion, the future of contract administration in Saudi Arabia is contingent on the industry's ability to address the key challenges and embrace the potential benefits offered by digital technologies. By adopting standardized procedures, improving dispute resolution mechanisms, and leveraging innovative technologies, such as BIM, blockchain, and AI, stakeholders can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of contract administration practices. This, in turn, will contribute to the successful delivery of construction projects in the country and support the ongoing growth and development of the Saudi Arabian construction industry. R eferences R éférences R eferencias 1. Alreshidi, E., Mourshed, M., & Rezgui, Y. (2017). Factors for effective public sector construction project administration in Saudi Arabia: A qualitative exploration. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 7 (3), 238-251. doi: 10.1108/BEPAM- 01-2016-0001. 2. Azhar, S. (2011). Building Information Modeling (BIM): Trends, benefits, risks, and challenges for the AEC industry. Leadership and Management in Engineering, 11(3), 241-252. doi: 10.1061/(ASCE) LM.1943-5630.0000127. 3. Cai, H., Deng, Y., & Zhai, W. (2020). A critical review of the use of blockchain in the construction industry. doi:10.1016/j.autcon.2020.103345. 4. Elgohary, K.M., El-Diraby, T. E., & Hewage, K.N. (2016). Artificial intelligence in the construction industry: An ontological outlook. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, 43 (10), 901-915. doi:10.1139/ cjce-2015-0543. 26 Global Journal of Management and Business Research Volume XXIII Issue I Version I Year 2023 ( )G © 2023 Global Journals Contract Administration and its Future in Saudi Arabia