Assessing the readiness of construction quality assessment systems (CONQUAS) deployment within UK construction organisations

This research paper focuses on the levels of awareness of the Construction Quality Assessment System (CONQUAS) deployment within the UK Construction Related Organizations. The findings of the paper are based upon a comprehensive literature search and empirical studies conducted with 24 construction firms currently utilizing various modes of quality systems within their construction projects. Six management practices associated with the effective management of complex change are correlated with eleven different motivation factors for CONQUAS certification. The study used Canonical correlation methods to correlate simultaneously the management practices to the assessment of the motivation for CONQUAS certification. In summary it can be stated that the overall level of readiness of CONQUAS deployment within UK Construction Organizations is medium. The most important motivational factors for CONQUAS certification were found to be increased corporate image; increased sales and attracting more customers. The least important factors were the reduction in operational costs, more advantages in tendering reducing material wastage. The findings suggest that the integration of Total Quality Management (TQM) with CONQUAS as the preferred option for the enhancement of the quality performance within the UK Construction Industry. This paper concludes by presenting a new methodology for assessing the readiness of CONQUAS deployment for UK Construction Organization. The framework presented in form of a hexagonal profile can be used to depict the levels of consideration of the management practices desirable for the CONQUAS deployment. Senior Management can utilize this model to assess their strengths and weaknesses on the Management Practices necessary for the effective deployment of CONQUAS.