Construction industry changes induced by the COVID-19 pandemic
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management
ISSN: 0969-9988
Article publication date: 12 April 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant societal changes and altered how much of the construction industry operates. This study investigates the impacts of pandemic-related changes, how these changes may apply to different companies, and which changes should continue post-pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach
We aim to identify pandemic-driven changes that have affected the construction workplace and the advantages and challenges associated with them. We then make recommendations for what could and should endure through the pandemic and beyond, and under what circumstances. To achieve this objective, we conducted both qualitative and quantitative analyses of 40 semi-structured interviews with US-based construction professionals.
Findings
Identified through these interviews were 21 pandemic-driven changes across six categories: management and planning, technology, workforce, health and safety, supply chain, and contracts. This study noted both positive and negative impacts of the changes on cost, schedule, productivity, collaboration, employee retention, flexibility, quality, and risk mitigation. Participants indicated that some changes should remain after the pandemic and others (e.g. select safety measures, schedule adjustments) should be temporary.
Originality/value
By incorporating these lessons learned into recommendations, the findings of this study will help businesses identify and implement the most appropriate improvements for their organizations. The findings also provide policymakers with valuable insights on how to promote innovation in the construction industry and potentially enact more effective policies during crises to drive long-term improvements.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research was collaboratively carried out by the authors through funding provided by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) at University of Texas at Austin under CII RT-400. The authors are thankful for the financial and logistic support provided by CII. Also, the authors appreciate and value the efforts and the insightful guidance provided by the CII RT-400 industry team members who offered a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience with exceptional dedication.
Citation
Kim, K., Tiedmann, H.R. and Faust, K.M. (2024), "Construction industry changes induced by the COVID-19 pandemic", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0983
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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