STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE RELATIONSHIPS AMONG CONSTRUCTION PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

The dominant traditional contracting system has been found to lead to much rigidity in working relationships, causing inefficiency in solving disputes among project team members. On the other hand, relationship-based procurement may bring about better project outcomes.

The main objective of this research is to formulate suitable strategies to implement relationship-based procurement in the Malaysian construction industry. Quantitative research was carried out via a questionnaire to find out the extent to which relationship-based practices are adopted in Malaysia. Respondents comprised clients, main consultants and main contractors from Selangor, Johor and Kuala Lumpur. The results were tested using the SPSS software.

The T-test results show that 35 of the 45 relationship-based practices are significantly adopted in Malaysia’s construction industry. Among these practices are trust, long-term commitment, open communication and mutual understanding.

The first correlation analysis showed that 16 out of 45 practices are significantly correlated with quality of relationship. Among these, it was found that mutual understanding, open communication, sharing trustworthy project information and maintaining a social relationship outside of the project among stakeholders significantly improved the quality of relationship. The second correlation analysis showed that 4 out of 45 practices are significantly correlated with project success. Among these, contract flexibility was found to play a significant role in achieving cost and quality performance. Some of the mentioned practices significantly improve productivity in the industry because they are common behaviours and attitudes displayed in the society.

Taking into account Malaysia’s national culture, it is recommended that a greater adoption of these practices by all stakeholders, including the government, will lead to better working relationships and greater project success in Malaysia.