Complexity measurement framework for change orders in construction projects: Case study of Vietnam

Purpose – This study aims to propose a complexity measurement framework for change orders in the construction phase. Design/methodology/approach – The complexity factors of change orders and evaluation criteria for complexity measurement were identified by using the Delphi method, while the weights of the complexity factors were determined by using the Analytical Hierarchy Process method. The list of factors and corresponding weights were combined to create a formula for measuring the complexity level of change orders. The framework was practically demonstrated by the change orders in the Vietnamese building construction projects as a case study. Findings – The four-stage framework was presented and practically demonstrated, including (1) identifying the complexity factors and categories of change orders; (2) determining the weights of complexity factors; (3) constructing evaluation criteria for complexity measurement of factors in change orders; and (4) measuring the complexity of change orders. Through the case study, 22 complexity factors and the evaluation criteria were identified for complexity measurement of factors in change orders during the construction phase in the Vietnamese building projects. Practical implications – The proposed framework can support project participants in comprehensively evaluating the change orders in the initial analysis, which helps them anticipate problematic issues to make appropriate plans when implementing change orders. Originality/value – This paper contributes to the literature by providing a complexity measurement framework for change orders, which researchers can adapt to measure the complexity of change orders in their specific studies with minor revisions.