Training provisions for risk management in SMEs in the UK construction industry

Risk management continues to be well recognised as an integrated key function of the enterprises management process in the construction industry. Literature has established that it is rapidly becoming an indispensable approach adopted by organisations in the industry for achieving strategic business objectives. However, due to inadequate provision of training programmes in risk management, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) mainly suffer from its lack of implementation. Focus of training on the general concept of risk management without considering the organisations' characteristics and requirements has influenced the SMEs' understanding of risk management. On the basis of a semi-structured interview and qualitative research with SMEs, the nature of training provisions of risk management in SMEs in the UK construction industry was discussed. 30 participants outlined that training within organisations, particularly in SMEs, is a complex and context-embedded activity. Its development requires a full consideration of organisational characteristics including the system of management; level of resources; degree of employees' knowledge; and objectives of the organisation. The result of the study also indicated that risk management training programmes have to be geared to the organisational activities to deliver the benefits and advantages of the process. It needs to provide a proven method for incorporating risk management processes as integral elements of business management. Moreover, training should focus more on creating the learning environment that supports employees to improve efficiency by controlling the risks of activities.