A conventionally managed project: a systems based case study

Walker, A. and Hughes, W. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0304-8136 (1986) A conventionally managed project: a systems based case study. Construction Management and Economics, 4 (1). pp. 57-74. ISSN 0144-6193 doi: 10.1080/01446198600000004

Abstract/Summary

The technique of linear responsibility analysis is used for a retrospective case study of a private development consisting of an extension to an existing building to provide a wholesale butchery facility. The project used a conventionally organized management process. The organization structure adopted on the project is analysed using concepts from the systems theory, which are included in Walkers theoretical model of the structure of building project organizations. This model proposes that the process of building provision can be viewed as systems and sub-systems that are differentiated from each other at decision points. Further to this, the sub-systems can be viewed as the interaction of managing system and operating system. Using Walkers model, a systematic analysis of the relationships between the contributors gives a quantitative assessment of the efficiency of the organizational structure used. The project's organization structure diverged from the models propositions resulting in delay to the project's completion and cost overrun but the client was satisfied with the project functionally.