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Information and communication technology (ICT) is one of the important factors that support construction project performance. Various studies have concluded that by aligning the ICT utilization with organizational ICT infrastructure, better performance outcomes can be achieved from the project to organization level. A positive connection between utilization of ICT and project performance has been established. However, the effects of ICT utilization strategy alignment with the organizational ICT infrastructure on construction project performance have not been investigated. This research evaluates and analyzes the importance of organizational ICT infrastructure to improve ICT utilization not just at the project level but also at the level of construction organizations. The main objective of this research is to investigate whether the effect of ICT utilization on project performance may be restricted and affected by its alignment with the ICT infrastructure level in the organization. The analyses of ICT infrastructure, ICT usage, and their associations with project performance are based on case studies of projects and organizations from the New Zealand construction sector. A method of evaluating ICT utilization and ICT infrastructure is proposed. This allows for further detailed examination of the strategic alignment between ICT utilization and organizational infrastructure. The effects of this strategic alignment on project performance are discussed and recommendations for the optimal strategic utilization are provided.

1 PhD student; mjel010@aucklanduni.ac.nz 2 Senior Lecturer; k.yiu@auckland.ac.nz 3 Professor; s.wilkinson@auckland.ac.nz ASTRACTSelecting the best conflict and dispute resolution method is not easy and can be very problematic specially when the decision involves multiple objectives or attributes. Conventionally construction parties consider cost, time and the amount of control they have in selecting their dispute resolution method. However one of the most important issues is the intended relationship quality and future retention status of working relationships. Based on the range of potential relationship contingencies the conflicting parties can decide on their potential strategy, style and method of conflict management. In the current study four attributes of cost, time, control and relationship quality are used to develop a multi-objective Decision Support System (DSS). Multi Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) methodology is employed utility of these four selected attributes are defined and the mathematical model is driven in two stages; stage one for each party and in the second stage for the integrated utilities of all the parties. The presented model although having some limitations can form the bases of a DSS for better selection of conflict and dispute resolution process.

PurposeInternational Engineering, Procurement and Construction (IEPC) projects deliver complex and critical infrastructure and construction projects. However, these projects face multiple challenges, especially in foreign construction markets, to the main contractors. The purpose of this article is to develop a tool for effective implementation of project management services for these international projects through upskilling and incorporate local expertise. Accordingly, the employment of a Native Project Management Consultant (NPMC) by the main contractor is proposed and investigated.Design/methodology/approachA three-stage research method was employed for triangulation of knowledge. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was carried out to examine the theoretical foundations of the study. The concepts were further explored through a survey and expert interviews. The study was performed in Iran as the host nation of multiple IEPC projects.FindingsIt was found that NPMC involvement has a significant contribution to the success of nearly all project management areas in IEPC projects. However, quality, schedule and budget management were the top-ranked areas. The study combines the results of previous studies with the interviews and questionnaire to create a tool designed to capture strategy actions and detailed activities designed to build capabilities in IEPC teams through the involvement of NPMCs.Practical implicationsA practical tool is developed which aims to enhance NPMC integration into IEPC projects. The tool is in-line with the project management concept of work-breakdown structure; which is understandable by project stakeholders.Originality/valueThe employment of NPMCs, and their potential role in IEPC projects has not been formally investigated and guidelines for such collaborations do not exist. The current study provides a platform for regulating such facilitators and enhancing project success.

The low-level application of digital tools and information systems in construction implies that many projects cannot meet modern requirements and standard of work of advanced industries. This study adopts a practical and diagnostic approach to identify key attributes and implementation processes of information systems in construction and logistics. To have triangulation of knowledge, a three-step methodology is adopted. Initially an exploratory analysis of previous literature is performed. Secondly a diagnostic analysis of IS applications in construction is achieved by case studies. Finally, expert interviews are performed to examine and consolidate the findings. The study illustrated practical and innovative applications of low-cost digital tools in IS development and created a framework for documentation of these discrete and mostly unshared practices. It is recommended that the construction sector should embrace more advance technologies to minimise human intervention and enhance real-time capabilities. The practicality of how different low-cost and off-the-shelf tools and digital platforms can be combined is discussed and demonstrated. The study provides a clear distinction for practitioners and academics as to what is being practiced in comparison to the dominant theories.