A Conceptual Framework for Enhancing Subcontracting Performance in the Construction Industry of Developing Countries

Abstract

A significant portion of construction work is executed through subcontracting (SC), making a study on SC performance instrumental. The study aimed to develop a holistic conceptual framework to enhance SC performance for the construction industry of developing nations. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to examine the available scholarly literature from Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases. From the databases, 27 studies were screened for a detailed review. A thematic content analysis was conducted to explore different themes from the screened studies analysed using ATLAS.ti23 software. These themes then served as components to be intricately linked and build the framework. The framework encompasses SC strategy, business constraints, adoption of information technology, uncertainties, and capabilities impacting the four core activities of SC performance: bidding and selection of subcontractors, subcontract management, operations management, and monitoring and evaluation of subcontract works. Adopting the framework's principles will cause a push towards fairness, symmetric information and dependency, mutual trust, and continual improvement efforts along the SC value chain, resulting in the overall growth and competitiveness of the construction industry of developing countries.