Quantification of Delay Factors Using the Relative Importance Index Method for Construction Projects in Turkey

TLDR

Construction delays are common and arise from many factors, posing major concerns for project performance. This study aims to identify and analyze delay factors in Turkish construction projects using the relative importance index method. The authors identified 83 delay factors, grouped them into nine categories, visualized them with an Ishikawa diagram, and quantified their relative importance via the relative importance index. The case study revealed the most critical delay factors and groups, and the authors offered recommendations to reduce and control delays.

Abstract

Construction delays are common in construction industry and create major concerns for project performance. Construction delays are caused by many factors. The aim of this paper is to identify delay factors on construction projects and analyze these factors with the relative importance index method. For this purpose, 83 different delay factors were identified, categorized into nine major groups, and visualized by the Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram through detailed literature review and interviews with experts from the construction industry. The relative importances of these delay factors were quantified by the relative importance index method. The ranking of the factors and groups were demonstrated according to their importance level on delay. According to the case study results, the factors and groups contributing the most to delays (those needing attention) were discussed, and some recommendations were made to minimize and control delays in construction projects.