Constructability : a model framework for knowledge transfer development, a three country comparison

Constructability is an important approach that allows the building industry to achieve quality outputs making best use of resources – the linked goals of time, cost and quality. Information supply and knowledge transfer are central to this and are recognized as integral to an industry strategy to improve productivity. However, poor delivery of information to those at the construction site and lack of effective methods of transferring knowledge between parties involved in construction become major challenges. This paper reviews the building production practices and information networks adopted by three countries to achieve better constructability practices. The elements of ‘control’, ‘innovation’, ‘best practice’ and ‘audit’, identified as key to improving knowledge transfer, are modelled for the construction sectors of Singapore, Australia and Malaysia. A framework for knowledge transfer is proposed to promote better practices in the construction industry.