AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE ADOPTION RATE OF BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLAN (BCP) IN SINGAPORE CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES DURING COVID-19

Abstract

A business continuity plan (BCP) details a set of comprehensive measures needed for a company to operate smoothly amid disruptions. In 2020, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented change in the way we work. Amid such uncertainties, having a comprehensive plan with measures detailing ways to mitigate potential disruptions has been more important than ever. As such, this paper seeks to investigate the adoption rate of BCP in the Singapore construction industry and identify common BCP measures adopted by the Singapore construction industry during COVID-19. Additionally, it will assess the effectiveness of the current BCP measures, identify reasons behind the non-adoption of BCP and suggest ways to improve the BCP adoption rate in the Singapore construction industry. To understand the current BCP landscape in the construction industry, a literature review was conducted and BCP adoption rates in the construction industries of several countries were revealed. In addition, BCP measures and guidelines released by governments overseas were also studied. A case study on Singapore’s national response to COVID-19 was then conducted, giving a general overview on the measures taken. Following which, a survey questionnaire was conducted to look at the construction industry’s response to COVID-19. Next, this paper delves in further to the individual company level through interviews. The BCP adoption rate in the Singapore construction industry during COVID-19 and the relevant BCP measures taken by companies were identified. Subsequently, reasons behind why some companies do not practise BCM were also determined.