Initiatives that enable Singapore contractors to improve construction productivity

Purpose
This study examines the initiatives that would enable contractors in Singapore to improve the level of construction productivity.

Design/methodology/approach
A two-pronged research method was employed: questionnaire survey with contractors (109 responses received) and in-depth interviews with 12 subject matter experts. The questionnaire covered questions such as the current and future improvement measures.

Findings
The results show that the top three motives for achieving high productivity (increase profitability, on time delivery and enhance corporate competitiveness) are underpinned by profit maximization. Factor analysis revealed several categories of productivity improvement strategies. Among these, only site operations category is under the control of contractors. Other important categories include government's initiatives and design factors.

Research limitations/implications
While contractors are the producers of built products, their productivity is very much dependent on other factors and other parties. The long-standing exhortation to contractors to improve productivity is necessary but not a sufficient condition to improve it.

Practical implications
Recommendations are provided for the government, designers, contractors and other stakeholders on what can be done to improve productivity.

Originality/value
This research adds to knowledge by showing that contractors' top motives for high productivity relate to self-seeking behavior to maximize profit. Prior to this study, productivity improvement is considered the responsibility of contractors. This study shows that two other stakeholders also hold the key to productivity improvement – government and designers. Government controls the supply of foreign labor, has the capacity to offer incentives and has the muscle to enact regulations to improve productivity. Consultants' upstream designs must be buildable.