Benefits of Constructability on Construction Projects

Abstract

This study was undertaken to identify the most significant gaps between the potential benefits of applying constructability principles to Alberta, Canada, industrial projects and the benefits typically realized in industry practice. This study also aims to gain an understanding of the barriers that commonly restrict constructability benefits. The data for this survey was obtained by administering a survey based on the Construction Industry Institute's 17 constructability principles. The results of this study indicate collaborative industry effort should be focused in the areas where the largest gaps currently exist between potential and realized benefits. These include among other things, involvement of construction in the design phase, building mutual trust, respect, and credibility between project planners, designers, and constructors. As the examples cited in this study illustrate, significant gains in project cost, schedule, performance, and safety can be achieved when the above prescription is followed. For example, savings of 30–40% in the total installed cost for facilities are quite readily achievable.