A Pilot-Validated Framework for Identification of Factors Affecting Labour Productivity in Indian Construction Industry

Abstract

Labour productivity is an important factor that determines the performance of projects in the Indian construction industry which impacts directly on cost, time, and efficiency. Despite extensive studies, limited studies have been done on region-specific factors affecting the productivity of Central Gujarat. This research has filled the gap in a structured multi-phase manner. In the first phase, a pilot study was carried out at different construction sites in Nadiad and Ahmedabad, the construction activities considered were masonry, concreting, plastering and tile installation works. The observations made showed significant differences in productivity mainly resulting from labour skill levels, origin of workforce, use of equipment and supervisory practices. In the second phase, a full literature review over studies published between 2005 and 2024 allowed to identify an initial list of 66 productivity-related factors. These factors were refined further in structured expert consultations with contractors, site engineers and supervisors. As a result, the factors were pared down to 42 by eliminating overlaps, combining similar variables, and ensuring that the factors were relevant in the region. The final factors were organized into 9 major categories which created a structured basis for subsequent quantitative evaluation using established methods of productivity assessment.