Analysis of factors impacting technology transfer in construction projects: Case studies from developing countries

Construction firms in developing countries lack technological and managerial capabilities and capacities. One potential mechanism for the acquisition of these capabilities and capacities is through technology transfer programmes in international construction projects. The vertical and horizontal fragmentation of the construction industry greatly impairs effective acquisition of construction technologies and technology transfer is traditionally not undertaken by construction project management teams.

This study analyses relationships between project delivery systems, project management teams, and technology transfer programmes, and examines the impact of these on project performance. A model based on a Systems Approach concept is presented. The model attempts to show qualitative and quantitative relationships between the variables. A case study approach is adopted. A detailed analysis of seven variables was performed on a sample of twelve international construction projects executed in the developing countries. Data and information obtained from the selected sample projects are used to examine the relationship between the variables. Nonparametric statistical techniques, contingency tables, chi-square test statistics, and rank correlation coefficients, are used to analyse the data matrix.

Strong direct and positive relationships exist between project performance and integration of local personnel in the project team. The composition of the project management team was found to have the highest influence on the technology acquisition efforts. Local firms' participation and project funding were major factors impacting the form of project organization. Client involvement was found to be positively correlated with the technology acquisition variable. It is suggested that technology acquisition objectives should be clearly formulated, and mechanisms for effecting them created, monitored and controlled by the project management team. Client involvement, local firms participation and local employment should be emphasized more to achieve these objectives.