High productivity is always a priority for all construction projects because it allows savings in cost and time. However, various factors can initiate a construction productivity reduction, which includes but is not limited to poor management practices, inferior working conditions, low worker motivation, and extreme climatic conditions. As one of the industry’s most dynamic elements, productivity has become one of the most frequently researched topics, but the lack of information on how various factors influence productivity makes it difficult for construction practitioners to develop effective strategies to mitigate or eliminate influential factors and consequently increase productivity. This thesis builds on several studies that discuss evidence of low productivity in the Hong Kong co...[ Read more ]

High productivity is always a priority for all construction projects because it allows savings in cost and time. However, various factors can initiate a construction productivity reduction, which includes but is not limited to poor management practices, inferior working conditions, low worker motivation, and extreme climatic conditions. As one of the industry’s most dynamic elements, productivity has become one of the most frequently researched topics, but the lack of information on how various factors influence productivity makes it difficult for construction practitioners to develop effective strategies to mitigate or eliminate influential factors and consequently increase productivity. This thesis builds on several studies that discuss evidence of low productivity in the Hong Kong construction industry. It seeks to identify and enhance the conditions for improving productivity in the construction industry.

The thesis examines key issues in managing construction productivity. It includes an investigation into the effects factors have on critical construction trade (CCT) productivity, and develops a comprehensive model of those factors’ interactions as controlling mechanisms. Furthermore, it contains a tool to locate a beneficial solution to overcome a productivity disruption by integrating the lean concept as an alternative management approach. And it evaluates factors affecting technology (3D printing technology particularly) acceptance in the construction industry in order to increase the automation rate, through which productivity improvement can be achieved. A combination of research methodologies is followed to structure and organize the different parts of the thesis into a study of factors affecting construction productivity and the mitigation measures.

First, a comprehensive inventory of factors and their organizational structure are elaborated by using a structured literature review for further analysis. Then those factors are investigated in terms of their influence on CCT productivity by analyzing expert opinions that are collected by means of a questionnaire survey. Results represent the top significant factors impacting each CCT. A comparison of those top factors among CCTs is provided to indicate and explain factors that are specific to a particular trade productivity.

Second, the aforementioned factors that drive any project toward productivity loss are accounted for in a comprehensive model showing the interactions between various factors as controlling mechanisms. An event sequence mapping approach and focus group discussion are applied to formulate individual and then integrated path diagrams that are further evaluated through a Structural Equation Model (SEM).

Third, the Lean-Clancy-based Decision-Making Matrix (LCDMM) is developed by combining two different methods – the “Clancey heuristic model” and “Lean construction” – with the goal of determining appropriate and beneficial solutions to eliminate disruptions. The main thrust towards the adaptation of the matrix depends on its potential to link disruptions with solutions based on lean tools. LCDMM as a reusable tool can assist scholars and practitioners in assembling the analysis of disruption waste and selecting solutions for productivity improvement.

Fourth, to ensure the successful implementation of 3D printing technology in order to address productivity issues, an investigation is conducted on factors influencing this technology’s acceptance in the construction industry. Five technology acceptance theories are revised to come up with a list of nine factors, the significance of which is determined through SEM.

This study should provide construction stakeholders with a better appreciation of the issues regarding construction productivity. More importantly, the results of the study serve as a source of reference for policymakers when formulating medium-to-long-term development strategies for productivity enhancement. In addition, suggested approaches to overcoming productivity issues will provide ways to sustain the development of the construction industry. Suggested research comprises further integration of investigated factors and proposed solutions to the construction practice