The influence of selection factors on evolutionary change methods: A case in the civil engineering industry

Abstract

Purpose

The basic purpose of this research is to study the influence selection factors have on the effectiveness of evolutionary change methods in civil engineering companies in Slovenia.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches to research work was applied. In the process of quantitative data analysis, the statistical methods of bivariant and multivariant analysis were used.

Findings

Based on the results of the research, the authors can conclude that the size of a company has no effect on any of the dimensions in selection factors. On the other hand, in seven of the 16 evolutionary change methods applied by the companies, the research results have confirmed the importance of selection factors.

Research limitations/implications

In the interpretation of research findings, it should be taken into account that, at the time the research was conducted, the civil engineering industry was undergoing a period of crisis and was ranked among the least profitable industries within the Slovene economy. For this reason, a generalisation of the research findings is not appropriate.

Practical implications

The research findings will allow executive managements to make a more efficient selection from the many available change methods, and also to apply them with greater efficiency. As a result, efficiency and effectiveness in companies can be expected to increase, which is of crucial importance when it comes to corporate entities operating in late‐transition or post‐transition environments.

Originality/value

The article represents an original contribution to understanding the change method selection factors related to the size of companies, as well as their influence on the selected method of evolutionary change process.

Citation

Friedl, P. and Biloslavo, R. (2009), "The influence of selection factors on evolutionary change methods: A case in the civil engineering industry", Management Decision, Vol. 47 No. 5, pp. 681-701. https://doi.org/10.1108/00251740910960079