Lu, Z.; Jin, X.; Osei-Kyei, R. and Senaratne, S. (2026) A conceptual framework for realising ESG-centred project value in modern methods of construction. Construction Innovation, pp. 1-19. ISSN 1471-4175
Abstract
Purpose – Sustainability research on modern methods of construction (MMC) has predominantly conceptualised sustainability through assessed performance outcomes, particularly environmental indicators. While this literature demonstrates the sustainability potential of MMC, it offers limited explanation of how sustainability-oriented value is realised during project delivery. This study aims to develop a project-level conceptual framework to explain how environmental, social and governance (ESG)-centred project value is realised in MMC projects. Design/methodology/approach – This study adopts a qualitative conceptual research approach focused on framework development. Insights from project value research, delivery-oriented perspectives and project capability literature are integrated with existing MMC sustainability research to inform the development of a project-level conceptual framework. Findings – Existing MMC sustainability research is dominated by an outcome-oriented focus with limited attention to project delivery execution and implementation conditions. In response, this study develops an ESG-centred capability-focused conceptual framework that conceptualises sustainability as ESG-centred project value realised through ESG-centred project delivery execution across the MMC project life cycle and enabled by ESG-centred project team capability. The framework provides a project-level explanation of how ESG-centred project value is enacted in practice. Research limitations/implications – As a conceptual study, the proposed framework has not yet been empirically tested. Practical implications – The framework highlights the importance of embedding ESG priorities within project delivery execution and project team capability, rather than relying on technological adoption alone. Originality/value – By shifting the analytical focus from performance measurement to value realisation through project delivery, the framework offers a novel project-level explanation of sustainability implementation in MMC.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | construction management; ESG; modern methods of construction; project management; project value; sustainability |
| Index terms: | performance outcome, framework development, project delivery, project team, conceptual framework, performance measurement, governance, modern methods of construction, project management, life cycle, implementation, methodology |
| Subjects: | performance measurement, business, research methods, project delivery, value management, contractual arrangements, project management theory and practice, building construction, theoretical framing |
| Topics: | Governance, Construction Technology, Research Practice, Procurement, Project Management, Quality Management |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
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