Construction Research and Education

Abstract

The construction industry, the largest industry in America, is in disarray because of high costs, sliding productivity, marginal profits, and high turnover. Research and development (R&D) in the industry is at present minimal, but could be a decisive factor needed to spark rejuvination. An R&D policy is proposed, with a discussion of creativity, the skills needed by R&D personnel, the interaction of R&D with bureaucratic activities, and negative side of R&D specialization. Construction education needed to supply research manpower, as well as to upgrade the skills and knowledge of construction personnel in general, may be the second decisive rejuvinating factor. The status of construction education in America is reviewed.