Measuring construction contractor satisfaction from the lens of client performance: Empirical investigation in India

Effective client-contractor relationships are vital for achieving project deliverables because both parties play a critical role in project success. For contracting firms, understanding and meeting client expectations is essential, whereas for client organizations, it is equally important to recognize and accommodate the expectations of contracting firms. Despite the significance of this mutual understanding, existing literature reveals a scarcity of studies focusing on contractor satisfaction. To address this gap, the present study investigates construction contractor satisfaction (CCS) through the lens of client performance, with specific reference to the Indian context. Using primary data collected from 109 respondents, the study employs both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to identify six key factors that define contractor satisfaction in client-contractor relationships: fairness, supportive behavior, funding assurance, well-versed clients, client initiative, and hassle-free relationship. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in construction management by presenting a preliminary validated measurement scale for assessing client performance from the contractor's perspective. This scale can further be validated using larger sample size globally, which can serve as a practical tool for client organizations in India and beyond to evaluate their performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and implement targeted improvements to enhance contractor satisfaction.