Mapping the global research landscape of human resource management in construction projects: a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis

Abstract

This study conducts a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis to determine publication trends, prolific journals and publications, and analytical techniques in human resource management (HRM) research within construction projects. A total of 374 journal articles and reviews published between 1986 and 2023 were retrieved from Scopus for analysis. The findings indicate substantial growth in HRM related construction research since 2013. The study identifies 10 prolific journals and 21 highly cited publications significantly influence HRM studies in construction projects, along with the key analytical techniques they employ. Bibliographic coupling produces 8 thematic clusters including ‘competency-based models and leadership styles in construction projects’, and ‘advanced technologies and construction management’. A keyword co-occurrence analysis presents 6 clusters including ‘leadership and management’, and ‘management of human resources and processes’. The presented insights enhance the theoretical framework of HRM in construction by systematically identifying key knowledge themes, guiding future research areas. Furthermore, it offers practical implications for construction practitioners seeking to address HRM challenges in construction projects. Lastly, the study highlights the need for further investigations into sustainability, diversity, and the integration of HRM with environmental management to enrich existing literature and inform best practices in the field.