The construction industry as a loosely coupled system: implications for productivity and innovation

Anna Dubois · Lars‐Erik Gadde

1,041 citations0/0 files storedConstruction Management and Economics

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Construction Project Management and Performance BIM and Construction Integration Product Development and Customization

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.

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References

1976Educational Organizations as Loosely Coupled Systems 1980Organizations and Environments 1998Capturing Value from Knowledge Assets: The New Economy, Markets for Know-How, and Intangible Assets 1990Loosely Coupled Systems: A Reconceptualization 2017Managing Business Relationships 1998Learning from Collaboration: Knowledge and Networks in the Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industries 2010Supply Network Strategies 2000A survey of supply chain collaboration and management in the UK construction industry

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