Application of supply chain management in building construction process

Abstract

As Supply Chain Management (SCM) concepts originated in the manufacturing industry, application of those concepts in construction is a challenging task. Although there are some implications of SCM in manufacturing and apparel industries, it is not sufficiently visible in the construction industry in Sri Lanka. Thus, this study aims to identify critical success factors affecting construction supply chains by implementing the concepts of SCM. A questionnaire survey was carried out among experts in the construction industry to formulate critical success factors. Thereafter, case study approach was used to evaluate formulated critical success factors in real time projects to identify strengths and weaknesses. It established fewer activities - greater effect, activity rotation and controlling, strategic management, managing inputs, information communication technology supported decision making and organizational behavior as critical success factors which need to be addressed in managing supply chain operations. Case study revealed that critical success factors are highly complementary and joint use of these factors provide a comprehensive view on how construction project supply chains can be optimized.