Integrating Key Elements for Smooth Project Execution: Unveiling the Interplay of Critical Success Factors in High-Rise Construction

Abstract

Achieving success in high-rise building projects is increasingly crucial. It requires a focused approach on critical success factors that enhance project outcomes by improving contract management to prevent disputes that can hinder overall performance. Prior research has overlooked the interconnectedness of these success factors, which is essential to grasp how less-critical elements may impact the critical ones. This study aimed to identify, prioritize, and establish a hierarchical structure of critical success factors and their relationships in high-rise construction. Thirty-one factors were selected from existing literature and pilot studies. An analytic hierarchy process–based survey helped identify the top 20 factors, which contributed 90% of their importance. These 20 factors were then used in an interpretive structural modeling survey to explore their interconnections. Analysis using Expert Choice and ISM software yielded valuable insights. Results underscored the importance of factors like adequate resources, contractor financial stability, and client clarity in project goals. Economic and technological environments, project complexity, project type, and client experience were also significant influencers. The combination of factors like resources, contractor financial stability, client goal clarity, project manager decision-making, effective communication, and consultant competence emerged as the most critical and influential. These findings offer valuable guidance for improving contract management practices by understanding and leveraging critical success factors and their relationships. This approach can mitigate performance issues, reduce disputes, and ultimately enhance overall project success.