Construction’s human factor

Our News Analysis is a review of a new publication, Global construction success, edited by risk management expert Charles O’Neil, with contributions from 17 industry experts, including Professor Rudi Klein, CEO of the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group (SEC).

The book explores construction projects and industries all over the world, which share many major problems including poor pricing practice; late payments; and mistreatment of sub-contractors.

Global construction success explores the importance of human dynamics in the risk management of construction projects. Every time a project is structured, designed and built, personal behaviours and inputs can either lead to success or be the cause of failure.

O’Neil has identified this human factor as crucial, based on more than 40 years’ experience in property development, steel fabrication, design and construction and asset management.

In our Analysis, MBS speaks to O’Neil about the factors for success and how a different approach to training construction professionals could not only improve project outcomes, but also help the industry embrace the potential of new technology - something that government in the UK is keen for the industry to achieve.