In the sprawling deserts of Saudi Arabia, where towering skyscrapers and ambitious infrastructure projects are reshaping the landscape, the construction sector is grappling with a monumental challenge: sustainability. A recent study published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, authored by Abdullah Alghuried of the University of Tabuk, sheds light on the critical success factors (CSFs) essential for sustainable construction project management in the region. The findings are set to redefine how projects are executed, particularly in the energy sector, where sustainability is no longer a buzzword but a necessity.
The research, which involved an extensive literature review and a detailed survey of industry experts, identified 24 CSFs that are pivotal for sustainable construction project management. These factors were then categorized into five groups: human resources and stakeholder requirements, sustainable project delivery and stakeholder engagement, strategic planning and alignment, project management practices and leadership, and compliance and governance.
The study revealed that stakeholders in the Saudi construction sector are increasingly recognizing the importance of modern tools and processes in overcoming challenges and improving project outcomes. According to Alghuried, “The adoption of modern tools and processes is crucial for enhancing sustainability in construction projects. It’s not just about building structures; it’s about building a sustainable future.”
The research highlighted five key CSFs that are pivotal in advancing sustainable construction project management: effective strategic planning, adherence to anti-corruption measures, efficient resource allocation, project managers’ expertise, and robust policy enforcement. These factors are not just theoretical constructs; they represent practical steps that can significantly impact the bottom line of energy projects.
As the energy sector in Saudi Arabia continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure, the insights from this study are particularly relevant. The energy sector, which is a significant driver of the Saudi economy, stands to benefit immensely from these findings. By adopting effective strategic planning and ensuring robust policy enforcement, energy projects can achieve greater sustainability, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
The study provides a structured framework for evaluating CSFs and offers practical insights to stakeholders for promoting sustainability within the construction sector. This framework can be a game-changer for the energy sector, which is increasingly under pressure to adopt sustainable practices. By identifying and prioritizing these CSFs, energy projects can not only meet regulatory requirements but also gain a competitive edge in the market.
The implications of this research extend beyond Saudi Arabia. The Middle East, with its rapidly growing infrastructure needs, can benefit from these insights. As the region continues to invest heavily in construction and energy projects, the findings from this study can serve as a roadmap for achieving sustainable development.
The study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, which translates to “Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering,” is a significant contribution to the field. It underscores the importance of a holistic approach to sustainable construction project management, emphasizing the need for effective planning, resource allocation, and policy enforcement. As the construction sector in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East continues to evolve, these insights will be invaluable in shaping future developments and ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of every project.