JUDO STRATEGY ADOPTED BY CONSTRUCTION AND CONSTRUCTION RELATED FIRMS

Abstract

Judo Strategy is a multi-layered concept wherein a smaller firm uses its competitor’s strength, resources, and size against it. Judo strategy has been successfully applied in some industries to assist Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs), but this is a relatively new concept in the construction industry. The objectives of this research are to: (1) develop a framework for challenging and defeating construction business rivals based on the Judo Strategy, (2) evaluate the use of Judo Strategy in Singapore construction firms and (3) fine-tune the Judo Strategy framework to suit construction firms in Singapore. The research design was based on conducting case study. Three in-depth case studies of Singapore construction firms were conducted. The companies ranged from small to large players facing stronger competitors in the marketplace. The method of data collection was mainly through face-to-face interviews. The findings show that Judo Strategy is largely applied in the cases. It also shows the reasons why and the extent of how Judo Strategy are used. These findings are useful for the practitioners as it may aid firms operating in the construction market to challenge or defeat stronger competitors.