Determinants of construction duration

Abstract

This paper probes the range of factors affecting construction project duration through a literature review and a pilot survey in Hong Kong. Time-cost models previously proposed in Australia and the UK are compared with data obtained in Hong Kong and similarities are noted. The 111 responses to the detailed questionnaire issued in Hong Kong and the follow-up interviews also indicate other factors that may significantly affect project duration. Of these productivity is examined here, while other factors will be probed in the second phase of this investigation. Time-floor area relationships are also examined and found to be significant. Projects are classified as public or private sector housing and other buildings, roads and other civil engineering projects. Larger samples in each category of construction project will be targeted to test the validity of the models and their parameters in Hong Kong as derived from the pilot survey. It is noted that standardization in public housing projects (as in Hong Kong and Singapore) leads to more consistency in durations, providing useful reference points for such studies. International comparisons are intended to test the models, parameters and significant factors relating to the timeframe of construction projects.