Toward a Contingent-Configurational Perspective on Configuration Systems in the AEC Industry

The Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry faces increasing pressure to deliver customized solutions at scale, yet research and practice remain fragmented around configuration systems. This configuration-centric systematic literature review synthesizes 137 publications, mapping customization strategies, enabling mechanisms, and performance outcomes. Results highlight configuration systems as essential for advanced customization but reveal significant gaps in theory, terminology, and empirical validation. To address this, we propose an integrative analytical framework—structured around customization strategies, enablers, and outcomes—interpreted through the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) lens. We outline a research agenda to bridge theory and practice and support scalable and adaptive customization in digitalized AEC industry. This review provides a foundation for more context-sensitive, theory-driven approaches to configuration in the sector.