Norwegian Construction Leaders’ Views on Society 5.0 and Industry 5.0: Reality or Utopia? An Empirical Study Involving 70 Leaders in Norway’s Construction Industry

Purpose – This article aimed to offer insight into and discuss how the concepts of Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0 are perceived and understood by managers in the Norwegian construction industry. The research questions were limited to the perceptions and opinions of a group of bachelor's students in construction site management. Design/methodology/approach – The study used qualitative data collection, encompassing participants with different functions and experiences in the Norwegian construction industry. The student group was thus interdisciplinary. Everyone was a part-time student and had a full job at the same time. The participants represented two classes, with a total of 70 students divided into 15 work/study groups. Findings – The empirical evidence shows that the groups had insight into the concepts of Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0. They reflected on opportunities and obstacles. A transition to Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0 will require a focus on competence and self-directed learning, as well as a willingness to invest in competence and technology. This can be seen in light of a knowledge-intensive society and sustainable development. The participants emphasised the Norwegian working life model as a strength in the possible implementation of Industry 5.0 as it has several similarities with the concept of Industry 5.0 in terms of being human-centred. Originality/value – The article contributes insights into how the concepts of Society 5.0 and Industry 5.0 are perceived and understood by bachelor's students in construction site management. The study provides an in-depth analysis of the concept of resilience and the sub-concepts of vulnerability and capacity in a Norwegian context. Practical implications – The practical impact of the study can be linked to the students' participation as both informants and in assisting analysis of the empirical material, which has given them a foundation to communicate the topic of Industry 5.0 and Society 5.0 in their workplaces and other forums in which they participate as leaders in the construction industry.