Engineering Productivity Measurement: A Novel Approach

Abstract

The productivity of an engineer could be used as a factor in decision-making in construction management and the coordination of work execution. In this study, an empirical assessment tool is proposed to be used as means to measure the individual productivity of an engineer in a fair and objective manner. The method involves the implementation of a point system for work tasks as well as the definition of repetitive work and different types of delays, these values are then input into a mathematical equation that results in a productivity measure in a percentage format. The final productivity value can be used to assess the engineer, build effective teams, and recalculate engineers’ wages based on their monthly productivity. Moreover, the productivity values can be used to determine more accurately the time estimate for the completion of construction tasks. The proposed assessment tool was developed based on construction site observations. Through conducted trial cases, this tool was found to be applicable to different engineering departments; the point system used for the trials was suggested by the authors and can be adjusted to each firm’s preferences because no standard exists. Although the method is proposed in the context of construction, the authors hope to further develop the implementation of this methodology in other industries. This proposed novel methodology should be further validated and adjusted as required; this paper serves as an initial step to advance the search for a more wholesome method of productivity measurement.