Availability of Professional Construction Management for the Administration of Public Business

Abstract

The short length and rapid flow of rivers in Taiwan lead to vast differences between river reservations and silting. River dredging is a necessary measure to reduce flood damage and prevent secondary disasters from striking residents along riverbanks during flood seasons[1]. The government of Ilan County in Taiwan was the first to perform river dredging projects using public administration (PBA). This approach resulted in strong performance in disaster prevention and increased local sources of income[1]. However, operational mode was adopted by government departments, the efficiency of which is lower than that of government-owned but privately-run organizations. In other words, the PBA method increased governmental revenue; however, it remains unknown whether overall effectiveness was enhanced. A river dredging project commissioned by Hsinchu County incorporated professional construction management (PCM) in addition to PBA to increase operational performance[2]. This study analyzed and compared the two projects. From the aspect of management, river dredging conducted under the PBA method complicates operational management. Commissioning PCM for operations enables the coordination of various interfaces and enhances the progress of construction. PCM teams also serve as the connecting link between owners and contractors through the implementation of multi-layer structures, hierarchical responsibilities, centralized management, mutual supervision, and reduced abuses, enhancing overall project quality.