A resilience-oriented guiding framework for managing post-disaster reconstruction projects

Abstract

This research explores the problem of limited success measurement indicators for post-disaster reconstruction project assessment, primarily because of the miniscule inclusion of end-users’ perspectives and involvement in project planning and execution, and limited contribution with project objective(s) setting. Consequently, the success of reconstruction projects has traditionally been judged on the metrics of time, cost and quality; however, new resilience-oriented metrics such as satisfaction, sustainability and maintainability have added new success dimensions. The purpose of this research is to develop best practice guidelines for embedding or mainstreaming resilience into project management practice for post-disaster reconstruction projects. This research thesis focuses on the context of the Caribbean region and the perspectives of Caribbean project end-users (beneficiaries). By using a mixed-methods approach, comprising desktop reviews and a questionnaire survey in four islands (Antigua, Dominica, Grenada and St. Vincent), this research gathered data from 268 people. Factor analysis, multiple regression and structural equation modelling were used for data analysis. Quantitative analysis identfied 26 reconstruction project success factors and 24 resilience factors, among which governance was considered as the most critical and cross-functional factor required for successfully embedding resilience into reconstruction practice. A resilience-oriented guiding framework for managing post-disaster reconstruction projects is developed with a set of best practice guidelines. The framework is hoped to assist construction industry practitioners and professionals in decision making and planning before a reconstruction project commences. This research contributes to the body of knowledge in project management by way of evidence-based findings from project end-users’ perspective. The guidelines developed from this research can also add value to the Project Management Institute’s guidance document for post-disaster reconstruction projects. As the postdisaster reconstruction period is critical for incorporating resilience into communities that are vulnerable to future disaster events, how to monitor and improve resilience performance in reconstruction projects, in coordination with project management knowledge areas, deserves attention for future research.