Influence of Emerging Technologies on Real Estate Development Trends: A Case Study of Lead City University, Ibadan.

Adedoyin S.  Ogunbodede; Obinna L.  Umeh

Adedoyin S. Ogunbodede
Obinna L. Umeh University of Lagos

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, BIM, Campus Planning, GIS, IoT, PropTech, Smart Building

Abstract

Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates the impact of emerging technologies on real estate development trends, focusing on Lead City University. It seeks to understand how innovations such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) influence campus planning, facility management, and sustainability outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach: The study adopts a qualitative case study design based solely on semi-structured interviews. Twenty-five (25) purposively selected key staff members, comprising facility managers, IT experts, and administrative personnel were interviewed using open-ended questions. The data obtained were analysed using thematic analysis to ascertain dominant technology adoption patterns and their implications for real estate development.

Findings: The findings reveal that the integration of emerging technologies has significantly improved real estate development and management processes within the university. In particular, BIM enhances design coordination and reduces construction errors, IoT supports smart monitoring of utilities and maintenance systems, while GIS facilitates effective campus planning and spatial decision-making. AI applications are emerging gradually, especially in predictive maintenance and sustainability planning.

Conclusion/Theoretical/Social/Practical implications: The study underscores the transformative role of digital innovation in educational real estate and highlights the need for increased institutional investment in technological infrastructure and capacity development. Theoretically, it contributes to PropTech scholarship by providing contextual evidence on technology adoption in university real estate systems within developing economies.

Originality/value: This research provides one of the few empirical insights into the role of emerging technologies in shaping real estate development trends in Nigerian universities. It establishes a practical linkage between technology adoption, campus sustainability, and facility management efficiency.