Factors affecting labour productivity in the construction industry

Much research in the area of construction productivity focussed on the factors affecting labour. However, these studies tend to look at the factors in isolation and thus were inadequate in the recommendations for productivity improvements. This is because labour productivity is a complex and multifaceted issue. Given the recent industrial initiatives of Rethinking Construction and Respect for People, it is becoming an ever more important agenda to understand the workforce. This study, part of a Ph.D. research into construction labour productivity, attempts to determine how the site management personnel perceives the concept of construction labour productivity and to elicit key factors that would lead to improvements. These perceptions are explored by engaging with the personal constructs of the participants through focus group interviews. The findings suggest a greater emphasis on four key aspects of planning, teamwork, welfare and job security.