The concept of integration in an IPD context: a grounded theory review
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management
ISSN: 0969-9988
Article publication date: 20 September 2022
Issue publication date: 2 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Recent construction literature has been focusing more on integrative contracting approaches such as integrated project delivery (IPD). However, conceptual studies on integration in IPD literature are scattered and fragmented, that is, most of the studies only focused on the segmented dimension of integration. A systemic understanding of the concepts of integration in IPD project-based context is still lacking. To fill this gap, this paper analyzes two aspects of integration (dimensions and directions) in IPD literature and explores their extent in construction projects.
Design/methodology/approach
Grounded theory review and focus group discussion approaches were employed to perform a thorough conceptual review of the literature, frame the research into the theory and increase the fundamental understanding of the concept of integration in IPD literature.
Findings
In this study, IPD integrating techniques were identified and their integration dimensions and directions were discussed. Results show that integration in the project-based environment of IPD is a multidimensional construct. Based on organizational, contractual and operational characteristics of IPD projects, twenty-four integration mechanisms were identified and framed into seven clusters. The integration directions over project life-cycle were demonstrated in three contexts: (1) an on-site construction project, delivered traditionally, (2) an on-site construction project, delivered with IPD and (3) an off-site construction project, delivered with IPD.
Originality/value
This paper gathers the segments of integration into a comprehensive overview, which can help researchers and practitioners explore elements of IPD project success more precisely. A theoretical framework of integration clusters is developed, based on IPD literature. The impact of IPD on on-site versus off-site construction is illustrated from an integration direction perspective. Finally, future areas of studies for researchers and practitioners about the concept of integration in an IPD context are discussed. This paper provides a point of departure for future theoretical and empirical explorations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This research is funded by scholarships from the Fonds de Recherche du Quebec, Nature et Technologies (FRQNT), and Pomerleau Industrial Research Chair in Innovation and Construction Governance at Polytechnique Montreal, whose supports are gratefully acknowledged.
Citation
Rankohi, S., Bourgault, M. and Iordanova, I. (2024), "The concept of integration in an IPD context: a grounded theory review", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31 No. 1, pp. 48-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0009
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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