CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
PREAMBLE
This chapter describes in detail the step-by-step actions that were taken to achieve the
study's objectives. The chapter is divided into sections titled research design, study
population, sample design, sampling frame, sample size, sources and instrument for
data collection, and data analysis method.
Research design
According to Creswell and Creswell (2018), research design is “the entire process of
research from conceptualizing a problem to writing the narrative” (p. 274). It provides
a framework for the procedures that researchers use to collect, analyse, and interpret
data to address their research questions or hypotheses.
This study employed both qualitative approach and quantitative case study approach.
Quantitative methods included statistical analysis of scheduling data, while qualitative
methods involved interviews and surveys to gather insights from project managers,
contractors, and other stakeholders. This mixed-methods approach provided a
comprehensive understanding of the scheduling challenges and potential solutions in
construction projects.
In terms of case study approach, selected construction projects were analysed and the
effectiveness of optimization techniques that were used on these projects was
evaluated. Alternatively, a case study design focusing on a specific construction
project or company could provide in-depth insights into the effectiveness of
scheduling optimization strategies.
A quasi-experimental design could be suitable for this research topic where the
scheduling performance of construction projects before and after implementing
optimization techniques could be compared. However, time taken to observe the
results would be the disadvantage.
Previous study
Site
The study focused on a large-scale commercial construction projects in an urban
setting. The projects sample involved multiple stakeholders, complex task
dependencies, and tight deadlines, making it representative of typical scheduling
challenges in the construction industry.
Sampling Technique
Purposive sampling was used to select participants with expertise in construction
project management and scheduling. The sample included project managers,
construction engineers, schedulers, and subcontractors involved in the selected
construction projects. Diversity in roles and experiences ensures a comprehensive
understanding of scheduling practices and challenges.
Data Collection Instruments
For the purpose of this study, both primary and secondary data were used. The
primary data collection for this study came from semi-structured interviews. Semi-
structured interviews were conducted with with key stakeholders to gather qualitative
data on scheduling challenges, current practices, and perspectives on optimization
strategies. Project scheduling software is used to collect quantitative data on project
time-lines, task dependencies, resource allocation, and critical path analysis. A survey
questionnaire is distributed to a broader sample of construction professionals to gather
quantitative data on their experiences, opinions, and preferences regarding
construction project scheduling.
Framework for Data Analysis
Quantitative Analysis
Statistical techniques such as regression analysis and trend analysis were applied to
scheduling data to identify patterns and factors that influenced project schedules.
Qualitative Analysis
Thematic analysis was used to analyse interview transcripts, identifying common
themes, challenges, and potential solutions related to construction project scheduling.
Survey responses were analysed using content analysis to further explore participants’
perspectives.