Factors affecting the performance of construction industry during the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study in Turkey

Purpose The construction industry is a crucial industry for national development worldwide. Because the construction industry is tied to national and international economic activities, the COVID-19 outbreak has limited construction projects. Therefore, this study investigates the most influential factors regarding COVID-19 and their effects on the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach The potential impacts of COVID-19 on the construction industry were identified through a realistic literature review and interviews with professionals. A questionnaire was distributed via e-mail to architects, civil engineers and contractors who play vital roles during the construction processes. The data were analysed using SPSS 22 and LISREL 8.7 software to quantify the most influential pandemic-related factors faced by the construction industry. Findings Ten influential pandemic factors affecting the construction industry in Turkey were identified. Among them, increased costs and price escalations due to shortage of raw materials and supply chain disruption and challenges with payment and cash flows were determined as the most influential pandemic factors. Research limitations/implications This research aims to advance comprehension of pandemic impacts and contributes an incipient assessment framework based on 10 determined pandemic factors. Therefore, contractors, architects and civil engineers may analyse their weaknesses and organise precise priorities so that their firms may remain competitive, thus minimising the adverse impact of COVID-19 and possible forthcoming waves. Originality/value Few studies have identified the effect of pandemics on the construction industry qualitatively, forcing management to make projections to the current situation. Moreover, no study has provided insights into the influential factors of pandemics using quantitative methods. Therefore, this study comprehensively and quantitatively determines the relevant COVID-19 pandemic factors using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and utilises confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling to present a structural model of how pandemic factors affect the Turkish construction industry.

Automated summary

This study investigates the influential factors of COVID-19 on the construction industry through literature review, interviews, and a questionnaire survey. Ten influential pandemic factors are identified in the Turkish construction industry, including increased costs and challenges with payment and cash flows. The research provides insights for construction firms to analyze weaknesses and prioritize actions to minimize the adverse impact of COVID-19 and future waves.