ANALYSIS OF CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN INDIA

Abstract

The construction sector, the second largest industry in India after agriculture, often faces challenges of cost and schedule overruns. Addressing these issues requires effective management of "critical success factors" (CSFs), which influence the success of construction projects. This study identifies key CSFs by analyzing responses from a structured questionnaire survey completed by construction professionals and technocrats. Defining "success criteria" is crucial for evaluating project performance, but perceptions of success vary widely among stakeholders, making it difficult to measure. This research advocates for a unified framework, such as the "Iron Triangle" of Time, Quality, and Cost (TQC), to standardize success evaluation. The study also examines how quality, as a success criterion, evolves with stakeholder perceptions and project progress. Through the analysis of 40 survey responses, a comprehensive list of CSFs and sub-factors is developed, highlighting distinctions between smaller and larger projects. The findings provide actionable insights for improving project management practices, helping to mitigate cost and time overruns and enhance construction project outcomes in India.