UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECT OF CULTURE ON MULTICULTURAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT TEAMS

Abstract

Due to globalisation, the needs of the 21st century demand a workplace that is culturally sensitive. Homogenous working environments are increasingly being replaced with multicultural working environments. This paradigm shift in demographics can be observed in Singapore’s construction industry as well, where multicultural projects teams are becoming increasingly common. However, each team member comes with their own cultural values, modes of operation and interests which produce a power distribution system amongst participants that leads to conflicts and adverse relationships. Therefore, this study’s aim is to raise awareness and increase understanding of cultures and cross-cultural conflict in the construction industry in the hope of achieving improvement in team performance.

The statistical tests conducted for this study reveal multiple key findings regarding cultural diversity. First, the number of nationalities on a project team is associated with the level of cross-cultural conflicts in the team. Second, it was found that there is a relationship between intercultural sensitivity level and cross-cultural conflict level. Third, based on the findings from the interviews, collaboration and communication is essential in cross-cultural management and conflict management. Last, it is important to create a sense of belonging and build an inclusive environment for multicultural project teams to enhance overall team performance.