Methodological strategies to gain insights into informality and emergence in construction project case studies

Barrett, PS; Sutrisna, M

Abstract

In investigating complex situations, such as construction projects, the case study approach has been considered
reliable to capture rich information for the purpose of the investigation by allowing the investigators to retain
the holistic and meaningful characteristics of real-life events. Subsequent to data capture, data analysis will take
place according to the intended research methodology. However, there is a potential for certain information to
be hidden within the data and diluted during this data analysis phase. In order to minimize this and to reveal
informal aspects and freshly emerging themes from the case study data, it is proposed that there is great value
in analysing case studies on various levels, through different phases using multiple methods. Examples of the
outcomes of applying multiple analyses involving different approaches, such as grounded theory methodology,
rich picture diagrams and cognitive mapping, to the same set of data from multiple case studies are presented
and discussed. This application of multiple analyses to case study research of construction projects provides
valuable insights by revealing informal aspects and stimulating the emergence of a fresh understanding of the
processes and interactions among different stakeholders. From the findings, the limits of the formal
management systems were revealed. Further, the limits of tacit understanding around an evolving shared vision
for a project were found to be substantial dimensions in understanding construction projects in a more holistic
way.

Citation

Barrett, P., & Sutrisna, M. (2009). Methodological strategies to gain insights into informality and emergence in construction project case studies. Construction Management and Economics, 27(10), 935-948. https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190903273943

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2009
• Deposit Date: Jan 25, 2011
• Journal: Construction Management and Economics
• Print ISSN: 0144-6193
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 27
• Issue: 10
• Pages: 935-948
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190903273943
• Keywords: Case study, cognitive mapping, construction projects, emergence, grounded theory methodology,; informality, rich picture diagrams.
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01446190903273943