GENDER INFLUENCE ON THE ADOPTION OF PARAMETRIC DESIGN TOOLS IN THE NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

This study examines the influence of gender on the adoption and application of parametric design tools in the Nigerian construction industry. As digital technologies become integral to contemporary architectural workflows, disparities in access and usage, particularly along gender lines, can affect innovation, design outcomes, and workplace equity. Using a structured questionnaire administered to 539 construction professionals, the research analyses differences in tool adoption, perceived precision, and design flexibility between male and female respondents. The findings indicate that, while both genders recognise the benefits of parametric tools, male professionals generally report higher confidence and stronger agreement regarding precision and iterative capabilities. Female respondents tended to be more neutral in their responses but indicated higher agreement on aspects of flexibility and workflow improvements when they had hands-on experience. These patterns suggest that gender-based differences are driven more by unequal exposure and role-based access than by capability. The paper concludes with recommendations for inclusive digital training, gender-aware mentorship programmes, and organisational policies to promote equitable participation in Nigeria’s digital construction landscape.