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CII Research

Transforming Capital Projects through Collaborative Research

CII research is a dynamic partnership between industry and academia, driving innovation and excellence in capital project delivery. Our members don’t just observe research—they shape it, lead it, and benefit from it.


Why CII Research Stands Out

Member-Driven Innovation

CII research begins with our members. From ideation to implementation, members identify challenges, form Research Teams, and guide the development of tools and best practices that improve project outcomes.

Proven Impact

Over 40 years of research have produced 17 Best Practices and dozens of tools that help organizations deliver projects more efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

Academia-Industry Collaboration at the Core

Every CII Research Team is a blend of academic researchers and industry professionals, ensuring that each project is both scientifically rigorous and practically relevant.

Get Involved


                                                               Join a Research Team (for individuals with member organizations) Becoming part of a Research Team is the primary way CII members contribute to the creation of new practices, tools, and frameworks that improve capital project delivery. These teams are the engine of innovation at CII, and members consistently report high levels of professional fulfillment and impact. Research outcomes often evolve into widely adopted tools like PDRI or frameworks such as Advanced Work Packaging.

                                                               Submit a Research Idea (for anyone) Submitting a research idea is one of the most powerful ways to shape the future of CII’s work. Your input helps identify the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the industry, guiding CII toward high-impact investigations. This ideation process is central to our strategic planning and ensures that our research portfolio reflects member priorities

                                                               Apply for a CII Research Request for Qualifications (for Academics) Every year around January, CII releases a Request for Qualifications inviting academics from the United States and Canada to apply for research projects. Fill in this form to stay in the loop.
 

Evolving Priorities in CII Research

CII’s research mission is rooted in improving the processes and practices that enhance the delivery of capital projects. While this general focus remains constant, our specific areas of interest evolve over time in response to industry needs and member feedback.

Recent guidance from the CII Board of Advisors has emphasized several key priorities, including:
  • Workforce availability and development
  • Technology awareness and enablement, including artificial intelligence and model-based delivery
  • Front end planning
Members have also highlighted the importance of research on:
  • Construction safety
  • Collaborative delivery approaches
  • Development of additional guidance for, and refinement of existing CII Best Practices, such as Advanced Work Packaging and Planning for Modularization
Through rigorous research and active member engagement, CII continues to shape the future of capital project execution—ensuring that our work remains relevant, actionable, and transformative.
 
Ongoing Research

CII Best Practices
 
RT-413 (Presented in 2025) Guidelines for a Supplier Qualifications Program RT-421 (Presenting in 2026) Advanced Planning Guide for Modularization RT-433 (Presenting in 2026) Advanced Project Controls for AWP RT-435 (Presenting in 2027) Alignment and Communication of Business Drivers in FEP


Deployment Research
 
RT-410 (Presenting in 2026) Evaluating the Implementation and Value of CII Best Practices RT-420 (Presenting in 2026) Implementation of CII BP’s for Small Projects


Safety Research
 
RT-412 (Presented in 2025) A Refresh of CII’s Zero Accident Techniques (ZAT) RT-434 (Presenting in 2026) Improving Safety in Crane Operations RT-431 (Presenting in 2027) Best Practices in Safety Communication and Training


Technology-related Research
 
RT-415 (Presented in 2025) A Review of International Data Standards for Project Management Systems RT-430 (Presenting in 2027) Model-Based Deliverables Guidelines for Capital Project Delivery RT-422 (Presented in 2026) Accelerating AI for Construction Safety


Other Research
 
RT-414 (Presented in 2025) Developing the Next Generation of Frontline Supervisors RT-411 (Presented in 2025) RT-411 Decarbonization in the Construction of Capital Projects RT-436 (Presenting in 2026) From Recruitment to Training: CII Member Pathways to Craft Workforce Success
 

Other Resources

Resources for Academics Working on Research Teams

Academics and RT leaders can access templates and information to guide CII RT execution
Find More

Ideation Page

CII Members can find the latest updates on this year’s ideation process
Open Ideation Wiki

Nominations for RTs

Nominations are now closed for 2025. You can still learn about the 2025 new RTs in the Request for Nominations wiki.
RFQ Wiki