A case study of multi‐team communications in construction design under supply chain partnering

Abstract

Purpose

The increasing “globalisation” and complexity of construction design implies that the project team may involve subcontractors in the construction supply chain from widely distributed geographic areas. Thus communication is a vital process for the design. The aim of the present work is to investigate how construction design under supply chain partnering can be improved through a study of communication issues and problems.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey is initially conducted to investigate communication issues and problems in construction design. Based on the survey results, a case study is carried out to gain further insights into these issues and problems, exploring how the procurement like supply chain partnering influences the multi‐team communications in construction design.

Findings

The paper finds that partnering can eliminate many communication barriers and has a positive impact on social collaboration in the design process. It could have a negative impact on the team communications if proper procedures have not been put in place. In addition, co‐location can increase the degree of interaction, communication and technical collaboration in the partnership.

Originality/value

This paper may help construction project practitioners to focus their attention on the necessary respects of multi‐team communications between supply chain partners in construction design, leading to high cooperation and ultimately improving the quality of the design outcomes.

Citation

Xie, C., Wu, D., Luo, J. and Hu, X. (2010), "A case study of multi‐team communications in construction design under supply chain partnering", Supply Chain Management, Vol. 15 No. 5, pp. 363-370. https://doi.org/10.1108/13598541011068279