A study of critical skillsets and methodologies of construction project managers

• Main Author: Lee, Woo Bin
• Other Authors: Tiong Lee Kong, Robert
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2024
• Subjects: Engineering; Civil; Construction; Project; Management; Critical; Skillsets; Methodologies
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/177028
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

The “Fourth Industry Revolution” has brought forward an era of change for all industries across the globe. The transition towards Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Automation, Internet of Things and also Quantum Computing has altered the perception and outlook of various industries, which includes the basic definition of success and of course the skillsets and methodologies that follow suit to guarantee this success. The construction industry has also undoubtedly experienced changes in the recent years, transitioning towards “Construction 4.0”. To facilitate a smooth transition to Construction 4.0, the Singapore Government has launched the Construction Industry Transformation Map to help aid firms in the built industry have a smooth transition towards Construction 4.0. These changes bring new requirements for construction project managers (CPMs), who play a crucial role in the success of project management. In order to transition to Construction 4.0, upgrading of skillsets and adapting methodologies to the new industry framework has been critical for construction project managers. To address this matter, this research aims to study the skillsets and methodologies of construction project managers in Singapore. In turn, developing a competency model suitable for Singapore’s construction project managers to transition to Construction 4.0. To achieve this, a mixed-method approach was utilised, which involved conducting a focus-group survey using the Delphi Method, analysing job advertisements through the use of data mining and finally, gathering real life data from professionals in the industry through interviews. The results gathered indicates a steady demand for essential project management skills. Additionally, the research identifies a discrepancy in the demand of skillsets and methodologies between companies and individuals. This suggests that the skillsets and methodologies of CPMs has not yet adapted well to Construction 4.0, despite the local government’s efforts. The findings of this study makes a significant contribution towards the construction industry by identifying the critical competencies required in Construction 4.0. Furthermore, the study also identifies the gap in skillsets and methodologies between those currently acquired by Construction Project Managers in the industry and those required in Construction 4.0.