Literature Review on Trust and Current Construction Industry Trends

James P. Smith¹ & Zofia Rybkowski²

Abstract

There is a growing body of evidence supporting the theory that project performance can be assisted by increased levels of trust. Trust in construction has received some academic attention but warrants more. This research provides additional rationale and foundational support for the advancement of knowledge regarding trust in construction. Specifically, we emphasize the role of chosen project delivery method and its impact on trust levels. We conducted an extensive literature review on trust and pertinent concepts were collected for application to the construction industry. Extant literature indicates a high level of relevance and applicability of trust research to construction issues. It seems probable that the chosen project delivery method plays a major role in the resultant levels of trust between project participants. Recent evolutions in project delivery methods and support systems, such as Integrated Project Delivery and Lean Construction are argued by their supporters to be more effective at maintaining high levels of trust than traditional methods. Results from this research suggest that academicians and industry practitioners alike who value trust should consider the ramifications of their current practices on the subject. Further research is required to determine if IPD, relational contracting, and lean construction are capable of systemically supporting higher levels of trust than traditional methods.

Keywords

Trust, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), project delivery, construction industry trends, relational contracting

Files

Full Text

 

Reference

Smith, J. P. & Rybkowski, Z. 2012. Literature Review on Trust and Current Construction Industry Trends, 20th Annual Conference of the International Group for Lean Construction , -. doi.org/

Download: BibTeX | RIS Format