Spatial factors contributing to the time management of construction workers at construction sites

Abstract

Inefficient time management of construction workers at construction sites often leads to waste of money, unnecessary disputes and quality reductions of the project. Even though, many researchers try to find roots to these time losses and management strategies to overcome these construction delays, attention paid for spatial factors in construction sites and their contribution for efficient time management within construction sites is at a minimal level. Further, the construction sites tend to have robust spaces which are changing day by day with complex needs of clients. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the management of spatial factors contributing to time management of construction workers at site. Qualitative research approach was occupied for the study. Semi-structured interviews and case studies were selected as the data collection methods to attain the aim of the study. The empirical data collected from sixteen interviews were verified through three case studies and analyzed with the use of manual content analysis. Further, this allowed for data triangulation which helped to develop a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena. Spatial factors which contribute effective time management of construction workers at site, the way they contribute and strategies to manage those spatial factors were identified through literature review and interviews. How those strategies influence on effective time management of construction workers were solely identified through the interviews and then all these findings were verified via case studies. Findings implied the importance of introducing the concept of spatial management to the construction industry. Implementation of regulations, increasing awareness and implementing more studies in this field can be a solution for construction delays as it increases the efficiency of construction workers. Spatial factor management related studies are hardly found in any context. This study can be used as a benchmark study for further in-depth research studies in the area.