Pan, X.; Ma, G.; Zhang, Y. and Ke, J. (2026) How voluntary sustainable effort influences task performance of construction project members: Insights from agent-based simulation. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, pp. 1-29. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose – Voluntary sustainable effort (VSE) of construction project members (CPMs) is essential for sustainable project management and overall project success. While VSE may consume resources for task execution, it can also generate synergistic effects with in-role effort. This study aims to explore the relationship between VSE and task performance (TP) through an agent-based model. Design/methodology/approach – This study develops an agent-based model embedded in a task network to simulate the recursive path from sustainable autonomous motivation (SAM) to VSE and, subsequently, to TP. The proposed model allows the simultaneous examination of how project contextual factors both satisfy individual needs and constrain decision-making. Findings – The optimal states of VSE and TP are not synchronized, and a nonlinear relationship exists between them. Learning effects from rational decision-making and accumulated experience expand the range where VSE enhances TP. Moderate autonomy, positive feedback and reciprocal commitment in construction projects satisfy CPMs' psychological needs, thereby fostering VSE and ultimately enhancing TP. Project temporariness and task complexity undermine SAM and increase the tension between in-role and extra-role efforts. The study identifies combinations of facilitating and inhibiting conditions that optimize the match between VSE and TP, thereby facilitating the most effective TP conversion. The optimal states of VSE and TP vary with the CPMs' ability. Originality/value – These findings offer a novel perspective on managing VSE in terms of safeguarding and enhancing TP, contribute to sustainable project management research and task-oriented organizational behavior modeling and provide practical guidance for project managers to improve TP while promoting sustainability.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | agent-based model; sustainable project management; task performance; voluntary sustainable effort |
| Index terms: | sustainable project management, construction project, project success, agent, complexity, conversion, commitment, motivation, modelling, project manager, decision-making, methodology, organizational behaviour |
| Subjects: | psychology, production management, health safety and environment, profession, business, systems engineering, manufacturing engineering, research methods, decision analysis, project management theory and practice, practitioner, analytical methods |
| Topics: | Risk Management, Engineering Principles, Project Management, Organizational Design, Research Practice, Health and Safety, Human Resources, Roles and Professions |
| Descriptive scope: | 3 PCT |
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