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Bossink, B A G (2002) A Dutch public-private strategy for innovation in sustainable construction. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 633-42.

Cheung, F K T, Kuen, J L F and Skitmore, M R (2002) Multi-criteria evaluation model for the selection of architectural consultants. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 569-80.

Cheung, S-O and Suen, H C H (2002) A multi-attribute utility model for dispute resolution strategy selection. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 557-68.

Drew, D S, Shen, L Y and Zou, P X W (2002) Developing an optimal bidding strategy in two-envelope fee bidding. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 611-20.

Dubois, A and Gadde, L E (2002) The construction industry as a loosely coupled system: implications for productivity and innovation. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 621-31.

  • Type: Journal Article
  • Keywords: construction; loosely coupled system; productivity; innovation
  • ISBN/ISSN: 0144-6193
  • URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190210163543
  • Abstract:

    Previous research suggests that the construction industry is characterized by (1) particular complexity factors owing to industry specific uncertainties and interdependences, and (2) inefficiency of operations. The aim of this study was to analyse the operations and behaviour of firms as a means of dealing with complexity. The observations made indicate that the industry as a whole is featured as a loosely coupled system. Taking this as a starting point, the couplings among activities, resources and actors were analysed in different dimensions. The pattern of couplings builds on two interdependent layers: tight couplings in individual projects and loose couplings based on collective adaptations in the permanent network. It is concluded that the pattern of couplings seems to favour short term productivity while hampering innovation and learning.

Dulaimi, M F and Shan, H G (2002) The factors influencing bid mark-up decisions of large and medium size contractors in Singapore. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 601-10.

Edwards, D J, Holt, G D and Harris, F C (2002) Predicting downtime costs of tracked hydraulic excavators operating in the UK opencast mining industry. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 581-91.

Ruddock, L (2002) Measuring the global construction industry: improving the quality of data. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 553-6.

Tan, W (2002) Construction and economic development in selected LDCs: past, present and future. Construction Management and Economics, 20(07), 593-9.