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Worker's View of Construction Producivity and the VOW Tool

Event Date

Apr 01, 2007

Type

Workshop Presentation

Research Team

RT-215

Slides

Topic

Work Force View of Construction Productivity

DOCUMENT DETAILS

Abstract

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Abstract

Since the late 1980s, outsourcing and globalization have changed the face of the engineering and construction world. The chance to lower costs – particularly in design – is a major reason for going outside the U.S. for various services. Also playing a role is productivity. Historically, productivity studies have focused on the perspective of management: which best practices should be employed or which way is best in performing an activity. Previous CII research on productivity also has taken management’s perspective. In 2004, however, CII sought a new perspective of construction productivity: that of the craft worker. It formed the Work Force View of Construction Productivity Research Team (RT 215) to collect data on processes and activities from the men and women executing them. These individuals have the best perspective of where productivity is lost and where it can be gained on a typical project, and are an excellent source of innovative solutions on how to prevent the losses and accentuate the gains. The ensuing research identified factors that have a significant impact on construction productivity. In general, tools and consumables, materials, engineering drawing management, and construction equipment were cited as primary causes for concern. Hundreds of suggestions were gathered on how to make the projects more likely to be successful. Additionally, the research team concluded that: Craft workers not only have a good understanding of the factors that have an impact on productivity, but also can provide an insight to root causes. Most of the major concerns are addressable on the jobsite. Productivity needs to be examined from a behavioral aspect because productivity factors involve perceptions, motivations, attitudes, and behaviors. Cost and progress reporting, observation, and measurement of craft perception will make a difference in a productivity assessment and management response processes. A greater effort is needed to engage the crafts and to establish two-way communication with them about productivity improvement. The research team developed a comprehensive tool, the Voice of the Craft Worker (VOW), to involve craft workers in productivity improvement and assist a site management team in controlling factors that impact productivity. Successful application of the VOW tool will lead to better project planning, improved motivation of craft workers, and improved allocation of limited resources in improving productivity during construction. This summary publication is an overview of the study and the findings of the research efforts. Readers are encouraged to read the crafts’ suggestions for improvements carefully and then see where these ideas might be put to use on their own projects.

Filters & Tags

Knowledge Area

Construction Execution, Project & Program Management

Project Phase

Construction

Project Function

Project Management, Project Controls, Construction, Commissioning & Startup, Risk Management

Industry Group

Heavy Industrial, Infrastructure

Research Topic

Work Force View of Construction Productivity

Keywords