DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF LEADING INDICATORS FOR PROJECT PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT (INTEGRATED DIGITAL DELIVERY)

Abstract

Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) is one of the initiatives introduced by Building and Construction Authority (BCA), with the focus of increasing construction productivity and efficiency using digital technology. However, there are limited studies on the relevant best practices and leading performance indicators for IDD due to the lack of experience within the industry. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to establish a recommended framework of best practices and leading performance indicators that are capable of determining and improving the performance of IDD projects such as time, cost and quality performances.

A literature review was conducted to identify the existing best practices and leading performance indicators that are already in place for traditional project delivery methods. Modifications were then made to develop a new set of best practices and leading performance indicators that are best suited for IDD. The opinions of built environment professionals were sought and analyzed through a survey questionnaire dissemination before conducting data analysis to determine the significance among different construction designations, years of experience of respondents and types of organization. Post interviews were conducted to validate the findings before establishing a recommended framework for project performance improvements.

The paper suggested that Building Information Modelling (BIM); Constructability Review and Analysis; Prefabrication; Virtual Reality and Virtual Construction Scheduling and Sequencing are the top digital technologies for IDD implementation. The majority of the respondents believed that the best practices that are worth measuring in IDD projects are “Cloud-based communication channels for interdisciplinary teams”; “Digital design development quality management phase checklist”; “Prevention through design”; “Guidelines in IDD projects”; “BIM execution plan”; “IDD technologies plan review” as well as “Qualified and experienced management staff”. Out of 161 leading performance indicators developed for the best practices, 54 of which were regarded as effective in measuring the best practices. A recommended framework with the aim of improving overall project performance for IDD was then developed. This framework offers the project managers or project team a chance to make an appropriate response and the implementation of remedial actions during the project lifecycle.

The findings of this study give important information for organizations that aim to adopt IDD in Singapore.