Construction Industry Professionals Research Articles

Agile project management for sustainable residential construction: A study of critical success factors

Sustainability principles should be incorporated into all decision-making stages for residential construction projects to ensure maximum revenue while maintaining essential residential building services. This study identifies and analyzes the critical success factors (CSFs) necessary for implementing agile project management (APM) in residential construction projects. Data were collected from 120 professionals in the Nigerian construction industry through questionnaire surveys to understand the implementation of APM. The CSFs were obtained from previous research and analyzed within the specific context of the Nigerian construction industry through questionnaire surveys. The CSFs were grouped into two main categories using exploratory factor analysis: dynamic project optimization and agile project foundations. The model for the CSFs was developed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The study found that the dynamic project optimization element had the most significant impact on the model, highlighting its importance as a key CSF in APM implementation. These results support the adoption of APM within Nigeria’s construction industry as stakeholders and professionals seek effective strategies to reduce costs and improve sustainability.

Digital twin technology (DTT) in a developing construction industry: evaluation of the awareness and usage among professionals in Nigeria

Technological innovations play a crucial role in project delivery across all sectors of the economy. This research seeks to assess the awareness of digital twin technology (DTT) among construction industry professionals to promote the sustainable completion of construction projects. A quantitative approach was adopted by using a survey questionnaire with convenience sampling. Questionnaires were self-administered to gather information about the industry professionals’ awareness and utilization of DTT in construction projects. Mean Item Score (MIS), Standard Deviation (SD), Spearman, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to analyze the collected data. Professionals within the construction industry have demonstrated a high level of familiarity with various technological advancements with computer systems, Wi-Fi, 2D Graphics, Vertex Digital twin platform, and GPS identified as the most commonly utilized tools in the field. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between DTT awareness and usage levels. The study provided valuable information on the present awareness and DTT utilization within the construction sector. It proposed methods through which professionals can familiarize themselves with empowering tools to enhance productivity and performance within the industry.

Exploring the impact of job satisfaction on turnover intention among professionals in the construction industry

PurposeTurnover intention is a critical predictor of an employee’s turnover behaviour. A high level of turnover rate significantly affects the productivity and morale of an enterprise. Previous research has indicated that job satisfaction plays a critical role in influencing an employee's turnover intention, but the underlying factors related to job satisfaction remain under-explored, which impedes the development of effective strategies for reducing turnover intention. In addition, little research examined job satisfaction and turnover intention in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically in the Chinese construction industry. This study aims to investigate the impact of job satisfaction on turnover intention among professionals in the construction industry.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was employed to collect viewpoints from 449 professionals in the Chinese construction industry, followed by descriptive analysis, correlation analysis and structural equation modelling analysis to derive results.FindingsThe findings indicate that professionals in the industry generally have a slightly high level of job satisfaction while a slightly low level of turnover intention in the special period of the pandemic outbreak. Leadership and management, training and career development and interpersonal relationships are critical underlying factors leading to their turnover intention. Although demographic factors have no moderating effect between job satisfaction and turnover intention, among them, age, marital status and years of working experience have strongly positive relationships with job satisfaction while significantly negative relationships with turnover intention.Originality/valueThe findings provide valuable insights to fully understand the critical factors leading to turnover intention from the perspective of job satisfaction, which is helpful in developing effective measures to address the turnover problems for enterprises in the Chinese construction industry and those industries with similar characteristics in other regions.

Unequal Ground: Gender Disparities at Work Life in the Construction Industry

This research intends to explore how gender impacts different aspects of the quality of work life, emotional intelligence, and the work–family interface among professionals in the Indian construction industry. This study employs quantitative methodology using a questionnaire survey. The questionnaires were circulated to 900 construction professionals, and 724 valid responses were received, resulting in a response rate of 80.44%. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and independent sample t-Tests. The independent samples t-Test revealed significant (p < 0.05) gender disparities in various quality of work life factors, emotional intelligence, and work–family interface. Males had a more positive perception of career growth, management, and the working environment. In contrast, females experienced higher job satisfaction, work commitment, personal satisfaction towards their workplace and personal life, a higher work–family interface, and a better work–life balance. Females also experienced a higher level of physical exhaustion and had a higher level of emotional intelligence, while males experienced a higher level of mental exhaustion. There were no significant gender differences in satisfaction towards remuneration and fringe benefits, work culture, or the level of psychological exhaustion. The findings suggest that construction industry organizations could implement policies and practices that promote equal opportunities, provide support for work–family integration, and foster a culture of emotional intelligence. This research adds to the current body of knowledge by igniting novel empirical proof of gender-based differences in the Indian construction industry. It highlights the importance of addressing these disparities to improve the quality of work life, emotional intelligence, and work–family interface among professionals in the industry.

Variations and Claims in International Construction Projects in the MENA Region from the Last Decade

This study delves into the dynamics of ‘Variations’ and ‘Claims’ in construction projects. This study aims to identify, categorize, and devise mitigation strategies for critical types of variations and claims that are aligned with the contract’s FIDIC conditions. The research draws on input from construction industry professionals, including contract administrators and project managers, and focuses on the MENA region. The region’s extensive adoption of FIDIC standards and the rapidly growing construction sector drive this choice. Data collection encompassed a questionnaire distributed to 80 industry experts, predominantly through interviews focused on countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Egypt. Utilizing SPSS-V.25 for statistical analysis, this study uncovers the most prevalent and impactful causes of variations and claims, highlighting the critical need for managerial intervention. A key feature is the integration of scientometric analysis into a quantitative finding. Implementing a k-means clustering analysis is a significant addition to the methodology. The survey had high internal consistency with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.97, and the respondents reported frequent and significant claims such as delayed drawings, ambiguous documents, and client changes. The results showed that effective claims management requires clear communication and balanced contracts, while poor design and contract documentation cause variations and claims. The correlation analysis showed strong positive correlations between claim types and causes. To reduce claims and address these factors, most respondents said the survey could predict and reduce claims.

Awareness of net zero energy buildings among construction professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry

PurposeNet zero energy buildings (NZEBs) play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of the construction industry. However, this concept in Ghana is still in the infancy stage, and the level of embracement in the construction industry is uncertain which further poses challenges to its adoption. This can be attributed to the lack of awareness of NZEB among construction professionals. Hence, understanding the awareness among construction professionals is essential for promoting sustainable building practices and reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Therefore, this study investigates the level of awareness of NZEBs among construction professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI).Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a quantitative research method where questionnaire survey was used to obtain data from sixty-six (66) construction professionals in the GCI through snowball sampling technique. The collected data were analysed using frequencies, mean scores, one-sample t-test and cross-tabulation.FindingsThe study revealed that thirty (30) construction professionals out of the sixty-six (66) had a moderate level of awareness of NZEBs, and 14 professionals had a low level of awareness. Thirteen had a high level of awareness. Three of the profesionals were extremely unaware, while six had a very high level of awareness. The study’s findings highlight the need to create awareness of NZEBs and their practices among construction professionals and employees in Ghana.Originality/valueNZEB is an under-explored area in the Ghanaian context and therefore, this study uniquely highlights the nascent awareness of NZEBs among Ghanaian construction professionals, unlike previous studies in more developed contexts. It underscores the critical need for targeted awareness programs essential for reducing the carbon footprint and advancing the adoption of NZEBs in the GCI.

Critical factors affecting workplace well-being at construction sites across countries with different income levels

Purpose This study aims to analyze the critical factors affecting workplace well-being at construction sites across countries with different income levels. Accordingly, this study’s objectives are to identify: critical factors affecting workplace well-being at construction sites in low-, lower-middle-, upper-middle- and high-income countries, overlapping critical factors across countries with different income levels and agreements on the critical factors across countries with different income levels. Design/methodology/approach This study identified 19 factors affecting workplace well-being using a systematic literature review and interviews with construction industry professionals. Subsequently, the factors were inserted into a questionnaire survey and distributed among construction industry professionals across Yemen, Zimbabwe, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, receiving 110, 169, 335 and 193 responses. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean, normalized value, overlap analysis and agreement analysis. Findings This study identified 16 critical factors across all income levels. From those, 3 critical factors overlap across all countries (communication between workers, general safety and health monitoring and timeline of salary payment). Also, 3 critical factors (salary package, working environment and working hours) overlap across low-, low-middle and upper-middle-income countries, and 1 critical factor (project leadership) overlaps across low-middle, upper-middle and high-income countries. The agreements are inclined to be compatible between low- and low-middle-income, and between low- and high-income countries. However, agreements are incompatible across the remaining countries. Practical implications This study can serve as a standard for maintaining satisfactory workplace well-being at construction sites. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to analyze factors affecting workplace well-being at construction sites across countries with different income levels.

An appraisal of barriers to digitalisation of construction industry in developing countries: perspective from India

Digitalisation in the construction sector promises numerous benefits, yet its widespread adoption in India faces impediments. This study aims to identify and analyse critical barriers hindering the adoption of digitalisation within the Indian construction sector. The study adopts a multi-phase research approach, involving a literature review to identify potential barriers. Subsequently, a questionnaire was administered to 162 professionals in the Indian construction industry. The survey reveals a willingness within the Indian construction sector to embrace digitalisation, citing benefits such as enhanced productivity and revolutionary impacts on construction processes. Larger organizations exhibit greater proactivity, while smaller businesses face challenges in resources and knowledge, leading to slower adoption rates. The study identifies five key themes of barriers, including financial/resource constraints, cultural/organisational constraints, regional disparities, data security/privacy concerns, and awareness/capacity-building constraints. The implication of the study is to unveil crucial barriers and provide insights for tailored interventions, aiding stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers in navigating the evolving digital landscape of the Indian construction industry. This study contributes to the exploration of perceptions of construction professionals specifically in India on why digitalisation is not fully embraced in the Indian construction sector.

Exploring the Determinants of Quality of Work Life in the Construction Industry: A Quantitative Approach

This research aims to identify and quantify the factors affecting quality of work life (QWL) among professionals in the Indian construction industry. The study employs a structured questionnaire, distributed to 900 construction professionals, yielding a response rate of 80.44%. The QWL construct was assessed through eight factors: career growth, management, job satisfaction, remuneration and fringe benefits, the work–family interface, emotional intelligence, work culture, and work commitment. Both descriptive and inferential analysis were carried out. The relative importance index method was used to rank these factors based on their relative importance. Work commitment (RII = 0.772) ranked as the most important factor, this was due to work commitment including significant items. The high ranking of this factor suggests that commitment to work is highly valued in the construction industry. The study also employed structural equation modelling to validate the association among these QWL factors. The findings reveal that job satisfaction (t = 0.765) and career growth (t = 0.751) play significant roles in QWL, suggesting that these factors should be prioritized to enhance QWL in the construction industry. The results of this study provide valuable insights for organizations, HR practitioners, and researchers in the construction industry, emphasizing the need to focus on job satisfaction and career growth to enhance QWL. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of QWL in the construction industry, offering valuable insights for organizations, HR practitioners, and researchers. Future research could adopt longitudinal study designs or qualitative methods to further explore the QWL among construction professionals.

A Decision-Making Model for Fast-Track High-Rise Buildings Using Structural Equation Modelling

Fast-track is a project management technique used to address time constraints and schedule overrun on construction projects. One of the major impediments in the application of fast-track technique in Pakistan’s construction industry is the lack of a comprehensive decision-making model. The aim of this research is to develop a comprehensive decision-making model for fast-track high-rise buildings which can highlight the impact of each decision-making aspect on its relevant project success indicator i.e., time variance(TV), cost variance(CV), quality variance(QV) or scope variance(SV) and the impact of cost, quality, and scope variances on time variance. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to develop this model. Questionnaire based on 5-point Likert’s scale was used to collect data from 159 construction industry professionals. Data was analysed using smart PLS-4 software. Results showed that on fast-track projects, scope variance has the greatest impact on time variance whereas quality variance has the least impact. Early scope freeze, early involvement of the contractor in design phase and early procurement of long-lead-time items are the most important decisions on fast-track projects whereas quality optimization decisions have an adverse impact on project duration. The proposed model has high out-of-sample predictive ability making it a universally applicable decision-making model. DOI: https://doi.org/10.52783/pst.434

A multi-criteria decision-making model for heavy construction equipment replacement in Saudi Arabia

PurposeThis paper aims to propose a novel model that addresses the limitations of current practices, through considering quantitative and qualitative criteria in the decision-making process for equipment replacement.Design/methodology/approachLiterature review and consultation with professionals in the heavy construction industry was conducted to identify the criteria influencing the replacement of construction machines. A questionnaire survey using analytic hierarchy process and multi-attribute utility theory was used to rank these criteria and establish their utility scores. Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess how adjustments in the weights of main criteria would impact equipment replacement decisions.FindingsThe identified criteria were classified into three categories: economic, technical and socioenvironmental, encompassing a total of 15 criteria. The findings indicated that salvage value/meeting payback period/maximizing profitability held the highest importance in the replacement process, followed by considerations like high repair and maintenance cost; working condition and economic conditions. Safety and social benefits scored the least among all criteria and categories.Research limitations/implicationsThis study focuses on earth-moving equipment and involves experts from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The model introduces a novel methodology to aid decision-makers, particularly contractors and project managers, in determining when to replace heavy construction equipment, which results in resource efficiency and time saving.Originality/valueThe model integrates expertise and knowledge from experts to establish criteria for replacing construction equipment. This research aims to improve the functionality of the decision-making process regarding the acquisition or replacement of equipment throughout its lifespan.

Effect of blockchain technology adoption on construction supply chain: a structural equation modelling (SEM) approach

Purpose The construction industry is frequently scrutinised by the public for a variety of issues, including waste, inefficiency, narrow profit margins, scheduling setbacks, budget overruns, quality concerns, trust deficits, transparency issues, coordination challenges, communication issues and fraud. The purpose of this paper is to assess the effect of blockchain technology adoption on the construction supply chain. Design/methodology/approach This study used a quantitative research approach through a questionnaire survey that was conducted among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry using the snowball sampling method, which resulted in a selection of 155 respondents. The collected data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling, enabling a thorough assessment of the proposed relationships and offering valuable insights specific to the construction industry. Findings The study’s findings validated the conceptual framework established. The results indicated that implementing blockchain across all stages of the construction supply chain has the potential to improve the construction process. The study also revealed that blockchain technology will significantly affect the construction supply chain in a positive manner. Research limitations/implications This research was carried out in the South-western region which is one of the six geo-political zones in Nigeria using a cross-sectional survey method. The study holds implications not only for local construction practices but will also contribute to the broader discourse on national construction sector challenges and possible solutions. Practical implications The findings of this study will be immensely beneficial to both professionals, practitioners and stakeholders in the Nigerian construction industry in learning about the potential of blockchain technology application in improving the construction supply chain. Originality/value The study in this paper constructed and evaluated a conceptual framework by exploring the connections between the variables. The results have significant implications for the construction sector, as they provide avenues for enhancing the construction process and the overall supply chain. These findings are valuable for researchers examining the potential effects of blockchain technology on the construction supply chain.

Awareness and Implementation Challenges of the Green Retrofitting in Building Enclosure in the Nigerian Construction Industry

This research work aims at examining awareness and implementation challenges of green retrofitting in building enclosures among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. The study identifies the varying green retrofitting used in building enclosures and investigates its level of awareness and the factors affecting its adoption among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. The sample was 100 comprising professionals in the construction industry selected randomly using cluster and purposive sampling techniques; and the response was 60%. Data were analyzed using frequency, mean and rank. The findings from the study revealed that out of the 20 green retrofitting used in building enclosures, the construction professionals are more aware of green roofs, high-quality glazing, reflective roofs, energy-efficient windows and doors, and shading device which include louvers. Also, top among the implementation challenges of green retrofitting used in building enclosure among construction professionals include limited knowledge, cost of fixing green retrofitting, skills gap, reluctance to adapt, and poor infrastructure are the major factors. The study recommend that government and professional bodies should sponsor innovative training approaches aimed at addressing skill shortages. This could be in form of schemes such as micro credentials and on-the-job training.

Women Professionals in Construction Industry: Barriers and Approaches to Improve Wellbeing, Safety and Health

Women Professionals in Construction Industry: Barriers and Approaches to Improve Wellbeing, Safety and Health

Exploring the barriers to innovation adoption in the UK construction industry

AbstractThe UK construction industry is an important aspect of the UK economy; however, it is struggling to keep pace with wider economic growth and if it does not change it will not be able to keep up with demand. There is a gap between academia and practice, and little understanding of how to successfully innovate within the industry. Following a workshop with 25 construction industry professionals on the barriers to innovation in the construction industry, key themes were developed through thematic analysis including regulation, fragmentation and constant change.

Work–family conflict and high-quality relationships in construction project management: the effect of job and life satisfaction

PurposeWork–family conflict is one of the most challenging stressors for construction industry professionals to cope with emotional problems. This study aims to propose a model linking work–family conflict and high-quality relationships among project team members and explore mediating effects of life and job satisfactions.Design/methodology/approachA theoretical framework was established based on the spillover theory and social exchange theory. Data were obtained by a questionnaire survey conducted with 328 respondents working in construction projects. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test interrelationships among work–family conflict, job satisfaction, life satisfaction and high-quality relationship.FindingsThe results indicate that work–family conflict is negatively associated with both job and life satisfactions of construction professionals. In addition, there were direct and positive relationships between satisfaction domains and high-quality relationship capacity. The findings further support that job satisfaction plays a mediating role between work–family conflict and high-quality relationship among construction professionals, while life satisfaction does not mediate the relationship.Originality/valueThe effects of interrole conflicts on the context of satisfaction have been investigated previously; however, there is a lack of knowledge regarding its influence on high-quality relationship among project team members. This study extends the body of knowledge on high-quality relationships among project team members to understand how conflict and satisfaction factors influence interpersonal relationships in construction project management.

Exploring the Impact of Social Media Use on Team Feedback and Team Performance in Construction Projects: A Systematic Literature Review

This systematic literature review examines the effects of social media use (SMU) and practices (SMPs) on team feedback (TF) and performance (TP) within the context of construction project management. It explores the complex interactions between SMU and SMPs and their impact on communication, collaboration, and stakeholder involvement in construction projects. The study investigates how these digital practices transform traditional methods of team interaction, feedback processes, and overall team performance amidst the challenging and diverse backdrop of construction sites. The goal of the review is to offer a detailed insight into the contribution of social media to contemporary construction project management, underscoring its value in boosting team communication, coordination, and effectiveness. This research is pivotal for decoding the changing dynamics of construction management, where digital tools and platforms play a crucial role in achieving project success. The anticipated outcomes are poised to provide significant implications for construction industry professionals, guiding them in harnessing social media for enhanced project management and team cooperation.

Evaluating the Role of Project Management Offices (PMOs) in Large-Scale Construction Projects: Insights from Construction Industry Professionals

This research paper evaluates the role of Project Management Offices (PMOs) in large-scale construction projects, with insights from construction industry professionals. The study's main objective was to bridge the gap in literature by obtaining direct perspectives from those managing these projects. A structured online survey, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative questions, was administered to a diverse group of professionals. The analysis, conducted using statistical software for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative insights, led to several key findings. PMOs were perceived as highly effective in aligning project objectives, resource allocation, process standardization, communication facilitation, and risk management. Notable challenges included resistance to change, inadequate senior management support, resource constraints, and project complexity. PMOs positively impacted project timelines, budget management, stakeholder engagement, and quality of deliverables. High integration of sustainability practices and moderate to high adoption of innovative technologies were also observed. Key success factors for PMOs included effective leadership, clear objectives, skilled teams, robust risk management, and effective stakeholder communication. Over 89% of respondents were satisfied with PMO performance. The study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing practical insights and confirming the critical role of PMOs in the success of large-scale construction projects. It highlights the importance of PMOs in driving sustainability and technological advancements, thus offering actionable guidance for enhancing PMO effectiveness in the construction industry.

Development of workplace well-being indexes at construction sites

Purpose This study aims to develop workplace well-being indexes for construction sites of different project types (infrastructure, high-rise and low-rise). Accordingly, the study objectives are to identify the critical factors that affect workplace well-being at construction sites, compare the critical factors between different project types, categorize the critical factors into subgroups and compute indexes for the critical factors and subgroups. Design/methodology/approach Data from a systematic literature review and semi-structured interviews with construction industry professionals were used to extract 19 potential factors that affect workplace well-being. Then, a structured questionnaire survey was distributed, and 169 valid responses were collected. Finally, the data were analyzed using normalized mean analysis, agreement analysis, factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation. Findings The study findings revealed that there are 11, 11, 8 and 12 critical factors across overall infrastructure, high-rise and low-rise construction projects. Out of those, six critical factors are overlapping across project types, including “general safety and health monitoring,” “salary package,” “timeline of salary payment,” “working hours,” “communication between workers” and “planning of the project.” Accordingly, the critical factors can be categorized into two subgroups within each project type. Finally, the development of indexes shows that infrastructure construction projects have the greatest index compared to other project types. Originality/value This study contributes to filling the current knowledge gap by developing workplace well-being indexes at construction sites across different project types. The indexes would assist decision-makers in understanding the current state of workplace well-being. This increases the commitment and recognition of well-being across different construction project types.

Examining the barriers to implementing design for deconstruction in the construction industry of a developing country

Purpose Despite endeavors to alleviate construction and demolition waste and the indications that the process of deconstruction has the potential to steer waste reduction initiatives, there has not been a progressive increase in the adoption of Design for Deconstruction (DfD) in the global south, especially Ghana. This paper aims to identify and analyze the barriers to implementing DfD in developing countries. Design/methodology/approach A structured questionnaire survey was used to solicit the views of 240 design professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI). The questionnaire was developed by reviewing pertinent literature and complemented with a pilot review. Data were analyzed using descriptive and nonparametric statistics. Findings The findings revealed ten (10) significant impediments to implementing DfD within the construction industries in developing economies. These impediments revolve around cost, legal matters, storage, incentive and design-related matters. Key among these barriers is “For recovered materials, there are little performance guarantees,” “The absence of strict regulations regarding design for deconstruction,” “Lack of a large market enough for components that have been recovered,” “The need for building codes that address how to design with reused materials” and “Lack of effective design for deconstruction tools.” Originality/value The results of this research shed light on a relatively unexplored area within the construction sector, particularly in a developing country like Ghana. Furthermore, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the study contributes fresh and supplementary knowledge and perspectives regarding the challenges in implementing DfD practices.