An Integrated Framework for Selecting the Optimum Project Delivery System in Post-conflict Construction Projects

The growing complexity and dynamism of construction projects have ultimately elevated the importance of project delivery systems. In addition, working in post-conflict environment has further magnified their significance. The literature review lacks a synthesized framework that is designed for the selection of project delivery systems in post-conflict construction projects. Accordingly, the overarching objective of this research is to develop a well-rounded framework for structured selection of the most suitable project delivery system (PDS) in post-conflict construction projects. The developed model encompasses two approaches for PDS selection, namely individual based and consensus based. These approaches differ in their modality of judgment elicitation and score aggregation but coincide in the output which is the suitability index for the PDS options. The constructed suitability index simulates both the relative importance weights of the most significant PDS factors alongside their relative effectiveness values. In this regard, it harnesses analytical network process to compute the relative importance weights of the PDS selection factors. The first approach is predicated on individual assessment of the parameters leading to calculation of the suitability indices. This approach applies Monte Carlo simulation to define a range for the suitability indices. The second approach, however, is hinged upon consensus-based assessment of the components of the suitability index through conferencing workshops. Comparative analysis demonstrated that construction manager at risk is the most attractive PDS option in post-conflict Afghanistan. In addition, design-build is a more suitable PDS option than design-bid-build for construction of health/educational and office/government projects in post-conflict Afghanistan. It is also manifested that project cost, security constraint and political impact, availability of experienced contractors sustain the highest significance on the suitability index in health and educational buildings. Furthermore, availability of resources and material, agency's in-house capacity, and availability of experienced contractors sustain the most paramount implication on the suitability index of construction manager at risk in office and government projects. It is anticipated that the developed integrated model could aid development agencies in selecting the most appropriate project delivery system that is best suited to their projects on the basis of project objectives, priorities, and location conditions.