Abstract
This paper is reviewing an ongoing research project which has two central aims. Firstly, to identify
and analyse indicators of central importance to a successful construction process in the perspective of
handing-over flawless buildings to clients. Secondly, from this knowledge, to deduce methods of bestpractice
in order to reduce the level of defects in construction projects.
The research draws upon statistics from The Benchmark Centre for the Danish Construction Sector
(BEC). BEC has been collecting data on the number and character of defects (legally defined) in
connection with buildings at hand-over to clients since 2004. Furthermore, research data is based on
an electronic questionnaire filled in by clients and contractors as a retrospective analysis of the
management conditions in construction projects resulting in either none or many defects at hand-over
to the client. A total of 130 responded to the questionnaire.
Processing of data and information from questionnaires has been carried out using different
statistical and analytical methods. Focus has been on the number and graduation of seriousness of
defects, on type of tender and organization of the construction process, on the type of client and on
budgetary issues. The qualitative analysis focused on management of budget, time, quality,
collaboration and coordination, competences and skills, safety and risk, and on the complexity of the
construction projects.
The results of the analysis are showing statistically significant differences for those construction
processes characterized by few or no defects compared to those with many serious defects. The
planning of budgetary conditions, time schedules, and an early and continuous defects control proved
to have the most significant influence on the final results related to defects in the building at handover
to the client. Furthermore, also quality control, the collaboration between parties, skills and
safety initiatives are influencing factors in the analysis of results.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Conference proceedings. Joint CIB International Symposium of W055, W065, W089, W118, TG76, TG78, TG81 and TG84 |
| Editors | Niraj Thurairajah |
| Volume | 2 |
| Publisher | Birmingham City University |
| Publication date | 2012 |
| Pages | 822-834 |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-2-9813355-1-7 |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |