Workers productivity in construction sites: A critical review

Productivity is well-known to be of a great importance to companies and researchers’ alike, possessing high levels of productivity is the key to long term prosperity. However, it is well established as an ongoing challenge facing the construction industry. Although many studies have examined factors affecting productivity, there is still no consensus among researchers on a clear solution to improve productivity, with the research implying that the productivity levels of the industry have not improved compared to other industries. Indeed, this has been seen in studies of the last few decades and suggested motivation as a key factor linked to labor productivity. Thus, this study provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on the motivational factors affecting productivity globally. The factors presented in this study are discussed in terms of the current motivation models, worker management plans, work environment, and empowerment and incentives. This study concludes with recommendations to improve productivity of construction workers in terms of extrinsic and intrinsic rewards, communication between the management and workers, and the systematic flow of work.