Integrated project delivery enablers to enhance conventional project delivery toward improving design documentation quality

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify specific enablers intrinsic to integrated project delivery (IPD) that can be adapted into the conventional project delivery (CPD) approach to enhance the quality of design documentation produced under the CPD within the Ghanaian construction industry. Design/methodology/approach The study employed questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for data collection. The sample size was 235 responses for questionnaires while 15 participants were interviewed. The survey instrument was piloted with industry professionals to ensure validity. IBM SPSS was used to analyze quantitative data by determining frequencies, percentages, correlation and regression, while content analysis was used on qualitative data with the aid of QSR Nvivo software. Findings Key findings include the need to adapt the early involvement of key participants for collaborative design input, tie individual success to overall project success with incentives and establish shared accountability for design errors and encourage open communication. Practical implications Adapting IPD enablers into the CPD approach would ensure higher-quality design documentation and more efficient project delivery. This has the potential to improve project outcomes, reduce errors, and foster better collaboration among stakeholders. Originality/value This study is the first of its kind to identify specific enablers inherent in IPD that can be adapted into the CPD approach to improve the quality of design documentation within the Ghanaian construction industry.