Describing Construction: Industries, Projects and Firms

This third book from editors Rick Best and Jim Meikle brings together and presents insights into a number of key concepts in the study of construction firms, projects, and the group of activities that loosely define the construction industry. The focus is on analysis of the industry and its component parts from the viewpoints of construction economists and others seeking to understand the drivers and challenges that shape an area of economic activity that is a major contributor in all economies. It is essential reading for students and researchers in construction management, quantity surveying, architecture, and engineering.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 16 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This third book from editors Rick Best and Jim Meikle brings together and presents insights into a number of key concepts in the study of construction firms, projects, and the group of activities that loosely define the construction industry. The value for readers comes from the collection of a variety of topics in a single volume, which provide a basic understanding of the complexities of construction as more than a set of practical concerns such as labor management and materials handling. Instead, the focus is on analysis of the industry and its component parts from the viewpoints of construction economists and others seeking to understand the drivers and challenges that shape an area of economic activity that is a major contributor in all economies.

The aim of this book is to provide an overview and discussion of several aspects of what makes construction tick. It is unlike other industry sectors in many ways, being project-based with often intense competition for work. Where the first book, Measuring Construction, focused on particular areas associated with quantifying various aspects of construction activity and the second, Accounting for Construction, looked more at how we record and report on construction activity, Describing Construction gives readers the views of experts in the field of how the construction industry is described, what its make-up is, it even asks the question: is construction a single industry? This book will change the way most readers understand the ‘construction industry, whatever that may be, not from the point of view of visible on-site activities, but through a scientific approach to analysis and understanding of how projects, firms, and various sectors of the industry work and how things are changing and may continue to change in the future.

Construction is a complex and multifaceted industry that plays a vital role.

Construction is a complex and multifaceted industry that plays a vital role in the development and growth of societies. It involves the construction of buildings, infrastructure, and other physical structures, and it is one of the largest industries in the world. Construction is a project-based industry, which means that projects are completed in stages, with each stage having its own set of challenges and requirements.

One of the key challenges facing the construction industry is the need for efficient project management. Construction projects are often complex and require a high level of coordination and collaboration between different stakeholders, including contractors, subcontract the government, and clients. Effective project management is essential to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Another challenge facing the construction industry is the need for sustainable development. With the increasing focus on climate change and environmental sustainability, construction companies are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices. This includes the use of renewable energy sources, the reduction of waste and pollution, and the promotion of recycling and reuse.

In addition to these challenges, the construction industry is also facing a shortage of skilled workers. The industry requires a skilled workforce to carry out its work, and there is a growing demand for workers with specialized skills such as carpenters, electricians, and plumbers. This shortage of skilled workers is putting pressure on construction companies to invest in training and development programs to ensure that they have the necessary skills to meet the demand.

Despite these challenges, the construction industry is also experiencing growth and innovation. There are new technologies and materials that are being developed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of construction projects, and there is a growing emphasis on the use of prefabrication and modular construction to reduce the time and cost of construction.

In conclusion, the construction industry is a complex and multifaceted industry that plays a vital role in the development and growth of the world. It is project-based, requires efficient project management, sustainable development, and a skilled workforce. Despite these challenges, the industry is experiencing growth and innovation, and there are new technologies and materials that are being developed to improve the efficiency and sustainability of construction projects.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367608903