Reflections and observations on the use of broad-based survey methods on the South African construction sector

The choice of appropriate methods of data collection is crucial for empirical research. This choice often appears to be influenced by the previous experiences and traditions of a researcher and his/her environment. Furthermore, critical and reflective reporting on the application of data collection methods in context specific literature is far and few between and often do not address particular issues interesting to a particular research field, such as construction, and its setting, such as South Africa where historically few broad based surveys of the South African construction industry have been attempted. In December 2006 a telephonic, computer assisted, survey was conducted on a sample of 528 contractors registered with South Africa’s Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). The data captured was quantitative but was supplemented with qualitative data. Although a good response rate was obtained, a number of context specific issues emerged ranging from problems with language to marriage proposals made to the female research staff. Of particularly note were the differences within the sample reflecting cultural, linguistic, economic and regional variations that affected the attitudes of respondents to the CIDB, the research and the interview process itself. From this conclusions are drawn that may assist researchers in research practice in South Africa and other developing countries.