Development of project life cycle communication ladder framework using factor analysis method

Every construction project requires a continuous flow of communication between project stakeholders. However, complex project participants and team members who are responsible for regularly delivering multiple pieces of vital information to several people/entities face internal miscommunication challenges, which may ultimately lead to significant conflicts and disputes. Although incorrect and/or inaccurate transmission of data may cause major project delays and cost overruns, few researchers have focused on the prediction and analysis of communication quality in complex construction projects. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the contractor's internal communication quality indicators throughout the project life-cycle. To achieve this objective, a comprehensive survey was developed and distributed among experienced practitioners. Depending on the collected type of data, appropriate statistical method was utilized. Through a factor analysis of these indicators, the number of significant variables was reduced, and the major components of the contractor's internal communication were determined. Results indicated that there are six principal internal communication components for contractor entities: clarity, decision-making, financial support, technical issues, procurement, and execution. The contribution of this work lies in defining and improving the quality of the main elements of effective contractors' internal communication (ECI) in complex construction projects, allowing practitioners to plan proactively, utilize project resources properly, and avoid costly miscommunications and conflicts.