Material Logistics in Urban Construction Sites: A Structural Equation Model

Aim: The aim of this paper is to identify best practice relating to the effective management of materials in an urban, confined construction site, using structural equation modelling.<br/><br/>Methodology: A literature review, case study analysis and questionnaire survey are employed, with the results scrutinised using confirmatory factor analysis in the form of structural equation modelling.<br/><br/>Results: The following are the leading strategies in the management of materials in a confined urban site environment; (1) Consult and review the project programme, (2) Effective communication and delivery, (3) Implement site safety management plans, and (4) Proactive spatial monitoring and control.<br/><br/>Implication for Practice: With the relentless expansion of urban centres and the increasing high cost of materials, any potential savings made on-site would translate into significant monetary concessions on completion of a development.<br/><br/>Originality/Value: As on-site project management professionals successfully identify and implement the various strategies in the management of plant and materials on a confined urban site, successful resource management in this restrictive environment is attainable.<br/><br/>Innovative Aspect of Paper: An empirical study of three different construction sites in three different countries (Ireland, England and USA) together with a questionnaire survey from the industry, investigating the managerial strategies in the management of plant and material in confined urban site environments<br/>