An examination of the critical variables in the use of the virtual concept in *construction value delivery

Recent innovative technologies like the virtual construction concept, where construction actors may be able to operate irrespective of time and space in the delivery of construction projects, are increasingly becoming important and can potentially provide enhanced value delivery opportunities in construction projects if given the necessary structured attention. However, given its novelty, little research has been done on the critical variables in the use of the virtual concept to support delivery of value in construction projects. This study provides an in-depth examination of the critical variables which can enhance value delivery in construction projects where the virtual concept is used; as well as what may be seen as value provided in construction projects.

The study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches, as well as other embedded triangulated methods to examine the key issues of the research. Apart from previous literature, alternative sources of evidence were gathered via initial in-depth semi-structured and focus group interviews; three focused quantitative surveys were undertaken to test generated propositions, and also explore essential emerging issues; qualitative semi-structured follow-up studies were done to examine the results, the practical tools generated from this study, and also to illuminate the integrated findings of the study.

Unlike previous approaches often used to examine critical variables, the research provides embedded, triangulated perspectives of the manifest, and also a structured set of interrelated 1^st and 2 ^nd order latent constructs defined by the manifest variables which can be vital in construction value delivery. The study has disentangled 16 observed variables, which can be critical in enhancing the delivery of construction value from the manifest perspective. Also a 2^nd order latent created synergy among four 1^st order latent constructs is found to be an influential construct for value delivery in projects supported by the virtual concept.

Through the triangulated studies on value in construction projects, the study has provided an integrated perspective and also typologies to illuminate the study of the phenomenon via a critical analysis of many rival theories found from empirical examination. It was also found that construction value has three key broad dimensions: context, transcendent and generic. Also from the generic classification of construction value, the dominant view of value relates to its conception from the perspective of conformance. The study also provides evidence to support the dominant reference to the terms goals and standards as the best words which describe the meaning of value in construction projects.

The study has generally increased understanding and extended the literature on the key concepts examined on the critical virtual variables and the concept of construction value. Also a set of generated practical tools and evolved strategies based on the findings of this study can potentially support virtual construction project value delivery processes.