Multicriterion Decision-Support Model for Selecting the Appropriate Delivery Method in Sustainable Construction Projects

Abstract

Selecting the appropriate delivery method is of paramount importance, especially in sustainable construction projects that have unique characteristics that are different from their traditional counterparts. A new decision-support model is proposed to assist decision-makers in this selection process. Thirty-six key selection criteria were first identified, through literature review, and then divided into traditional and sustainability-specific categories. The relative weights of these selection criteria were then assessed using an analytic hierarchy process through a survey administered to construction professionals. The results indicated that the three most important groups of selection criteria were level of integration, technology, and innovation, in addition to scope-related criteria. Another questionnaire survey was administered to evaluate the effectiveness of the three common delivery methods––design–bid–build (DBB), design–build (DB) and construction management at risk (CMR)––in achieving the 36 identified selection criteria. The results revealed that the traditional DBB delivery method was outmatched by the heightened needs of sustainable construction projects for collaboration and integration that can only be achieved through alternative delivery methods, such as DB and CMR. The proposed model consists of four functions––strategic alignment, screening of the comprehensive selection criteria, evaluation of the three project delivery methods, and final selection. The proposed model provides a comprehensive list of selection criteria for helping decision-makers produce a defensible rationale for choosing the appropriate delivery method for their sustainable construction project. A case study is also presented to demonstrate the application of the proposed decision-support model. Sustainable construction is significant in mitigating environmental impacts and promoting better health and quality of life. But it has unique characteristics that are different from conventional construction. To address these characteristics, there is a need for updating project management practices to satisfy the demands of sustainable construction projects. Among the significant project management decisions is the selection of the appropriate project delivery method (PDM) for sustainable construction projects. The practical relevance of this study is the development of a comprehensive multicriterion decision-support model that incorporates both sustainability-specific and traditional selection criteria to help owners choose the most appropriate delivery method for their sustainable construction projects. The model offers owners an invaluable tool for producing a defensible rationale to justify choosing a specific PDM. The easy-to-follow model allows owners to readily use the model without needing expertise in performing arduous mathematical tasks. Once the required selection criteria are fed into the model, it automatically and instantaneously sorts and ranks the alternative delivery method options. The owner then selects the most appropriate PDM that strategically aligns with the sustainable project’s goals. This model provides owners with a time- and resource-efficient technique for selecting the most appropriate delivery method. Selecting the appropriate PDM for sustainable construction projects enhances the chances of their successful completion and the achievement of the desired goals. This, in turn, encourages the execution of more sustainable construction projects, with their clear and established benefits to society, the economy, and the environment.