RELATIONAL CONTRACTING PRACTICES IN PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN VIETNAM

Abstract

Hitherto, it is not known if relational contracting practices could boost project outcomes in public construction projects in Vietnam. The aims of this study are to: (1) examine the extent to which relational contracting practices are adopted in Vietnam; (2) identify the motives and drivers to adopt relational contracting practices in Vietnam; (3) find out the barriers and factors that impede the adoption of relational contracting practices in Vietnam; (4) investigate the relationship between the extent to which relational contracting practices are adopted and project outcomes in Vietnam and (5) recommend relational contracting practices that may boost project outcomes in Vietnam. Data were collected from public and private contractors and consultants who have developed, designed and constructed medium and large public construction projects in Vietnam. It was found that most of the relational contracting practices are adopted to a significant extent, there are many motives and drivers to adopt relational contracting practices, and there are few barriers that impede the adoption of relational contracting practices in Vietnam. In addition, the relational contracting practices that may boost cost performance, time performance, quality performance, owner satisfaction and public satisfaction were also identified. This research has also recommended relational contracting practices that may boost project outcomes of public construction projects in Vietnam. Construction firms in Vietnam may thus improve their project performance and ensure better project outcomes if they adopt the recommended relational contracting practices identified in this research.