Evaluating the effect of TQM on mep construction productivity and project delivery in Dubai

Management techniques, such as Total Quality Management (TQM), have been proven to provide a positive impact on construction productivity. Despite this, TQM is rarely employed on construction projects in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This paper quantitatively documents the effect of applying TQM on construction productivity in the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) sector of construction using an active MEP subcontract. The utilized project consisted of two mirror-image sides; each managed independently using alternative managerial approaches: TQM on side A and status-quo procedures on side B. Data was collected and Earned Value analysis was used to compare the performance of both sides over the life of the subcontract. The study showed measurable benefits in terms of productivity and project progress through the implementation of TQM. Applying TQM through integrated management, better communication and involvement of all participants resulted in an increase of productivity up to 3%. Results are hoped to influence the willingness of the construction community to implement TQM and to further explore other management approaches.