Labor productivity management practice in construction companies

Effective labor productivity management (LPM) is critical for the success of construction projects, yet challenges persist in its planning, implementation and monitoring. This study aims to assess LPM practices by focusing on these three management functions, identify key strategies and develop a framework to enhance LPM effectiveness in the context of Ethiopian construction industry. The data was collected from construction companies through a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. In analyzing the quantitative data, while descriptive analysis was used to evaluate the LPM practice, the management strategies were prioritized using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and evaluated against the relevant performance dimensions using Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). In addition, the qualitative data was analysed thematically focusing on specific objectives of the study. The study revealed the major improvement areas related to the three management functions, and the identified management strategies to enhance effectiveness of the LPM practice are: collaborative planning, integrated scheduling, front-end planning, providing on-the-job training, setting targets for the workforce, financial and nonfinancial incentive schemes, and clash detection. The study underscores integrating management strategies across the management functions to enhance LPM effectiveness. Given shared industry characteristics, the findings are adaptable to other contexts.