Factors that affect the productivity of construction projects in small and medium companies: Analysis of its impact on planning

The study of productivity in the construction industry is gaining importance due to its positive effects on the economy of the construction companies and of the country as a whole. Nowadays, improving the productivity of building projects may have a direct impact in the survival of companies because of the great rivalry existing between them. In this paper we present the results of a research about the factors that impact the performance of construction works and, therefore, the planning and the building costs. Some of the considered factors such as technical faults in project documents, inspection delays or the workers training and skills are included in a survey directed to building engineers working for small and medium building companies. The knowledge and appropriate management of these factors can improve the planning of the work during the project development phase and the execution phase. This will have positive effects regarding time shortening for the execution of activities and, as a result, cost reductions.