Construction Industry Organization, Labor Relations and Productivity

The definitive works on construction organization have been credited to Arthur L. Stinchcombe who postulated a theory based on craft orientation, and Robert G. Eccles whose theory is based on subcontracting. The author takes issue with the bases of these theories and provides statistical support for the contention that they do not correctly describe the basis for the crganization of construction. An alternative theory is offered and its basis supported with appropriate data.

Various theories have been put forward to link productivity with motivation, satisfaction and job characteristics. Many such theories are based on Expectancy, Equity and Job Characteristic models. The author contends that Expectancy theories can be utilized to link needs satisfaction to productivity in the construction industry. conducted on a number of projects which resulted in the of an Research was needs development Equilibrium Model to explain satisfaction and associated productivity. The results of this research are given and support for the model indicated.

Additional analysis of the research data resulted in conclusions and recommendations which may help the construction industry in improving its productivity.