Driving unlegislated social value through local-government operated construction procurement

Abstract

Purpose Social value (SV) is gaining traction worldwide. However, there are no clear strategies to drive SV where there is limited or no formal SV legislation. The purpose of this study is to determine the key drivers of SV through construction procurement practices in regions without formal SV laws. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative data on the SV drivers of construction projects were obtained from local government construction procurement operatives using a survey questionnaire. The analytic hierarchy process was applied to prioritise SV drivers. A one-sample t-test was used to determine the significance of the SV drivers. Subsequently, the Pareto technique was deployed to determine the key drivers of SV. Findings The key drivers of SV to consider during construction procurement are investment by project clients, the education and training of contractors and consultants and organisational planning and policy reformation. Social implications The findings of this study will engender investment in sustainable projects and the integration of SV into construction practices to elevate industry standards, enhance corporate reputation and meet social expectations. The strategies identified in this study for promoting SV will foster community development through improved infrastructure, job creation and economic growth while supporting long-term sustainability and resilience. Originality/value The originality of this research lies in its context-specific insights into a country without formal SV legislation. The proactive measures identified, such as education and policy alignment, demonstrate a bottom-up approach for integrating SV into construction procurement. This contrasts with top-down legislative approaches seen in other contexts, providing a unique perspective on how SV can be driven in the absence of formal laws.