Bonilla, M; Castelblanco, G and Rasdorf, W (2026) The paradox of project performance: The role of procurement, contextual, and contractor-related factors. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 152(6): 04026062, ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
This study explores the multidimensional nature of construction project performance, focusing on the interdependent relationship between cost and schedule variations. Despite extensive empirical research on cost overruns, the critical dimension of schedule adherence is often neglected. Existing studies frequently attribute performance variations to individual determinants, such as project delivery methods, but fail to account for the complex interplay of multiple factors. This research adopts an integrated approach to project performance measurement, considering both cost and schedule variations as key indicators. Using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), the study uncovers complex causal relationships among procurement strategies, contractor attributes, and project-specific conditions. By analyzing transportation infrastructure projects with conventional and innovative intersection designs in the US, this study provides an understanding of how different configurations contribute to project performance. The research findings question traditional paradigms, underscoring the significance of contextual alignment and interdependencies in construction project management. Practical implications are provided for enhancing procurement strategies, choosing contractors, and organizing project execution to achieve successful results.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction of innovative intersections; cost variations; project performance; qualitative comparative analysis; schedule variations |
| Index terms: | construction project management, project performance, transportation infrastructure, paradigm, project delivery, determinant, dimension, key indicator, procurement strategy, cost overrun, configuration, variation, construction project, paradox, integrated approach, qualitative comparative analysis |
| Subjects: | systems engineering, infrastructure and transport systems, education and knowledge transfer, project management theory and practice, contractual condition, health monitoring assessment and metrics, financial and cost management, project delivery, social theory and frameworks, risk assessment, research methods, production management, contractual arrangements |
| Topics: | Procurement, Risk Management, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Health and Safety, Research Practice, Cost Management, Contract Administration |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCT |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here