Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching and its relevance to project leadership in construction

Abstract

The paper examines how an established ancient Chinese book of philosophy, the Tao Te Ching, written by Lao Tzu some 2500 years ago, can be of relevance for construction project managers who wish to enhance their leadership qualities. The paper advocates that practising project managers in the construction industry should take note of the 81 chapters in Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching if they are to effectively complete their projects to time, cost, quality and environmental specifications. A keen knowledge of this Chinese philosophy will become increasingly important for project managers who are practising or are planning to practise in East Asian countries, where the demand for construction is expected to grow significantly in the long term. © 1995.