Determining project control system effectiveness in construction project delivery

Purpose

Many construction projects exhibit poor performance in terms of fulfilling predetermined schedules and financial objectives. Project control systems (PCSs) have been used to enhance construction project performance; however, a comprehensive framework regarding the key determinants of PCS effectiveness is lacking.

Design/methodology/approach

Herein, the determinants for effective PCSs that can improve construction project performance were comprehensively identified by evaluating existing studies. A systematic strategy following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses protocol was employed to search for and select relevant studies, followed by a qualitative synthesis.

Findings

The significance of incorporating and managing many factors associated with PCS for effective project delivery was elucidated. The study synthesized 12 key determinants and 29 sub-determinants of PCS effectiveness in project delivery and grouped them into organizational, human, technological and operational categories. Out of the four categories examined, operational aspects received the most references, underscoring their critical role in PCS effectiveness, while human-related dimensions received the least amount of attention in the reviewed research, accounting for 4%. This also revealed a significant gap in the research addressing the interactions between all PCS aspects.

Originality/value

Understanding of the variables influencing PCS effectiveness in construction project delivery was enhanced, and a framework for future PCS research in five dominant areas was created.