Measuring complexity for building projects: a Delphi study

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study is to identify complexity measures for building projects in the People's Republic of China (PRC).

Design/methodology/approach

A three‐round of Delphi questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the key parameters that measure the degree of project complexity. A complexity index (CI) was developed based on the identified measures and their relative importance.

Findings

Six key measures of project complexity have been identified, namely: building structure & function; construction method; the urgency of the project schedule; project size/scale; geological condition; and neighboring environment.

Practical implications

These complexity measures help stakeholders assess degrees of project complexity and better manage the potential risks that might be induced to different levels of project complexity.

Originality/value

The findings provide insightful perspectives to define and understand project complexity. For stakeholders, understanding and addressing the complexity help to improve project planning and implementation.

Citation

Xia, B. and Chan, A.P.C. (2012), "Measuring complexity for building projects: a Delphi study", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 19 No. 1, pp. 7-24. https://doi.org/10.1108/09699981211192544