ROLE OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE IN PARTNERING: THE EXPERIENCE CONSULTANT FIRMS IN THE MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

Partnering is believed to be a viable approach to integrate the construction industry supply chain, improve client-constructor relationship, innovation, enhances levels of productivity and quality of construction project implementation, as well as creating conducive environment for innovations. Considering partnering is noted as an enabler for innovation, the perceptions of the consultant engineers towards partnering is crucial as they are at a pivotal stage of introducing innovation in construction projects. This paper aims to explore the perceptions of consultant engineers towards the role of organizational culture in partnering through the use of qualitative methods. Findings indicate that although the consultant engineers in Malaysia are positive towards partnering, there exists some hesitation in fully engaging in partnering ventures due to dissimilarities in organizational culture among firms involved.