Investigating first planning in construction

There is a divergence of research opinion as to the efficacy of detailed front end construction planning (first planning) and its use for strategic or tactical purposes. What really happens in planning construction projects is considered by focusing on comparing the responses of key stakeholders in the construction planning process. Contrasting perspectives of office- and site-based staff upon the accuracy of project timescales are identified together with their dissimilar methods of programme development and preferred first planning detail level. Consistently divergent views are expressed by office-based preconstruction planners and site-based construction project managers, including a reluctance to engage others during first planning held by the former and a limited belief in completion of the project to another's timescale (without their personal input) expressed by the latter. Significant role-based discrepancies in their approach to first planning are revealed and the potential for further research into cultural and behavioural motivators is highlighted.