Abstract
Large number of stakeholders in construction projects makes the construction industry prone to disputes. The historical separation between design and construction add to this phenomenon by having a consultant for design and a contractor for construction. Communication breakdown, frequently, is the first sign of problems, notably in the relationship between the Contractor and the Consultant. It appears that the split between design and construction has given rise to two separate cultures in the construction industry. This paper attempts to identify whether there is a difference in organizational culture between Consultants and Contractors taken as two groups and determine whether a specific attribute was related to the cultural differences between the two entities. Based on case studies it was found that consultants are biased towards Clan culture while contractors are biased towards Market culture. However, both groups show similar affinity to Adhocracy and Hierarchy cultures.
Highlights
The common practice used in procuring construction in Sri Lanka as well as many other countries could be explained using a model termed "tripartite system"
During the implementation stage of a project, Consultant - Contractor relationship is very crucial. This historical separation between design and construction is well documented and considered as a main reason for the problems encountered in the construction industry (Egan, 1998; Bennett et al, 1996; Seymour and Rooke, 1995; Latham, 1994)
All six elements of the contractors are dominated by Market culture
Summary
The common practice used in procuring construction in Sri Lanka as well as many other countries could be explained using a model termed "tripartite system". Three parties are the Employer, the Consultant and the Contractor whose mutual responsibilities are defined by contractual and professional obligations. The Employer inexperienced in the design and implementation of construction works seeks the advice of the Consultant. Responsibilities of the Contractor relate to the implementation of works specified in a formal contract, based on the Consultant's designs. During the implementation stage of a project, Consultant - Contractor relationship is very crucial. This historical separation between design and construction is well documented and considered as a main reason for the problems encountered in the construction industry (Egan, 1998; Bennett et al, 1996; Seymour and Rooke, 1995; Latham, 1994)
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