Enhancing Data Security and Screening Equity in Construction Recruitment via Blockchain-Based Automatic Digital Resume Generation with BIM and AI Techniques

Abstract

In the project-oriented construction industry, recruiting qualified workers who can finish the required tasks in a limited time is important. However, the high turnover rate in the construction workforce poses a challenge in verifying applicant information, leading to potential issues like information falsification and inaccurate assessments due to information asymmetry. Additionally, the industry’s male-dominated nature may foster stereotype-based biases, particularly concerning sensitive attributes (e.g., gender). Such situations contribute to unfair competition among applicants. The construction industry is also experiencing new technologies like BIM, AI, and Blockchain. Their integration shows potential for automation, fairness, information security, and trustworthiness in recruitment. To build a diverse and competent workforce, we propose a decentralized digital resume-based job applicant screening and appraisal framework via BIM, AI, and Blockchain. First, we develop a blockchain job applicant data model that distinguishes between personal privacy data and work-related data for record and storage. A permissioned Blockchain is then designed to facilitate partial transparency for potential employers while ensuring the confidentiality of applicants’ sensitive information. Specifically, for personal privacy data, sensitive attributes (gender, race, etc.) are safeguarded via encryption, and data (address, etc.) about company preferences (the desired distance range from the company, etc.) is also secured while allowing for employer verification via Zero-Knowledge Proofs and smart contracts for information protection. Utilizing time-stamped authentication, applicants’ work history (reference network-based and performance-based information) remains immutable and is securely accessible by potential employers. Based on the validated applicant data and diverse company requirements, the digital resume is generated and customized for each position through smart contracts. For validation, a prototype system is developed with the data from LinkedIn. The results show its feasibility for trusted, fair, secure, and effective construction recruitment.