An empirical investigation of small construction enterprises in South Wales

"This thesis is a study of small construction enterprises in South Wales. In response to industry and government reports, many initiatives aim to provide the construction industry with the skill and knowledge to build efficiently. It has been recognised that clients require satisfactory products and services from the industry. For success to be attained in a demanding environment, it is imperative that harmonisation exists in the supply chain. The industry has acknowledged that change is required and continues to seek initiatives that increase efficiency and reduce costs. Small firms have generally been the focus of much attention in terms of their inability to adopt technologies and processes at the same rate as large firms. A qualitative methodology was employed so that the motivations and aspirations of SCEs could be investigated. Data collected from large contracting firms and SCEs investigated the level of technological and process sophistication and acknowledged that significant differences existed. The research also assessed how industry and government initiatives impacted upon SCEs in terms of development. This approach provides an insight into how the relationship between contractors and SCEs is an essential determinant to the successful development of the construction industry in South Wales. The result of this research was the empirical investigation of issues to assist the industries understanding of the heterogeneous nature of SCEs. These issues were further assessed through conducting two in depth interviews. The research provides evidence that SCEs and large contracting firms can assist in reducing the costs of construction. Problems faced by both parties can be reduced through mutual understanding and acknowledgement of the differences that exist. The research concludes that due to these difficulties SCEs are not currently embracing industry initiatives."