Improving Performance in Construction Projects: A Case Study of Malaysian Public Projects

Abstract

Studies have worked out measures to curb the poor performance problems. However, it is hard to investigate the actual reasons because of the diverse construction culture of different countries. This research aims to develop a framework for mitigating the problems triggering the poor performance via a novel classification. An empirical analysis of mean and relative importance index (RII) was performed in SPSS of collected data from 56 public projects in Malaysia from 2003 to 2014. Qualitative and quantitative data was analysed from Audit General’s Reports, interviews, a pilot survey, and a full-scale experts’ survey. Findings from research investigated that the most influential factors affecting poor performance are not genuinely linked with those investigated from Audit General’s Report except a few. Furthermore, the study findings conclude that related financial problems and construction stage from project life cycle contribute to poor performance. The potential mitigation measures are worked out and validated via focused group discussions with experts. Finally, a framework was developed that emphasised Competent, Commitment, Communication, Comfort and Collaboration (5Cs) to mitigate the poor performance issues. The study is limited to identifying factors contributing to poor performance; however, relevant responsible stakeholders should also need to be identified in the future.