Investigation of team communication in construction projects with structural equation model

Project team members need to communicate frequently about project activities, processes, and decisions at every stage in the life cycle of construction projects. While effective communication can prevent situations that can negatively affect project success, poor communication between individuals can lead to undesirable consequences in construction projects. In this study, various constructs that interact with each other and different styles influencing communication in construction projects are examined. To achieve the study objective, a comprehensive literature review was conducted, which enabled to develop a questionnaire survey. Required data for the research was collected from construction industry professionals. Based on research gaps identified in the literature, two structural equation models were developed, and various communication factors were examined with a holistic approach. First, a structural model was developed to determine the main elements of communication components and the main communication constructs, and hidden patterns underlying these constructs were discovered. Second, various factors related to communication were obtained based on the literature review. By developing a comprehensive and practical framework, these factors were grouped as communication methods, communication transfer forms, and communication dynamics, which were evaluated in different contexts through statistical analyses. Finally, a conceptual model was developed, and model tests were performed to demonstrate the effects of constructs on communication quality at the project, group, and individual levels including project complexity as a moderating variable. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into communication that can help industry practitioners improve their communication performance and develop effective communication strategies.