SCRUM IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TO IMPROVE PROJECT PERFORMANCE IN DESIGN PHASE

Author

YINGCHEN LIU, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Completion Date

Spring 3-11-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Program or Discipline Name

Project Management

First Advisor

Stephen Onu

Abstract

As building technologies dramatically developed over the past several decades, construction project delivery methods evolved tremendously. Since the Renaissance, the fields of architecture and construction have been regarded as complex art forms. Today, both disciplines are regarded more as technical fields meant to improve human functional, technological, and practical needs. Therefore, the management of a project plays a more critical role in contemporary construction projects.

Over the several decades, there has been no significant change in the way of construction projects management changes. However, client requirements and expectations are constantly evolving. Because of this disconnect, traditional construction management practices cannot meet the needs of the current market. The potential project risks are increased by the gap between how the projects are conducted and how the projects should be managed. This negatively impacts the overall performance of the project as well as the quality of delivery.

Recently, more and more construction projects have begun improving project performance by utilizing new management frameworks. Most notably, “Agile” construction has gradually garnered attention throughout the industry because of its outstanding ability in managing risks and changes.

This thesis researches the implementation of “Scrum” (a framework of Agile project management) from the information technology field into the construction industry by means of the literature review. Through precedent analysis, the benefits and shortcomings of Scrum will be revealed. The benefits of Scrum that contribute to overall project performance will be analyzed in detail through the findings made through case studies, personal interviews, and a comprehensive literature review.

The result of the research shows that Scrum provides significant improvements for construction project performance in many ways. By decreasing uncertainty and increasing management of risks, it has obvious potential benefits in the design phase of a construction project.

In sum, this thesis identifies the advantages of the project performance by using Scrum in the design phase of construction projects. It predicts the future outlook of the possible development of Agile models in the construction industry. The thesis also includes the recommendation section to provide the suggestions for the future researches.

Recommended Citation

LIU, Y. (2018). SCRUM IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TO IMPROVE PROJECT PERFORMANCE IN DESIGN PHASE. Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.harrisburgu.edu/pmgt_dandt/31