Identification and Hierarchical Structure of Critical Success Factors for Innovation in Construction Projects: Chinese Perspective

This paper identifies 20 critical success factors (CSFs) of innovation in China’s construction projects through literature review, a case study and expert interviews. Integrated Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC (Impact Matrix Cross-reference Multiplication Applied to a Classification) analysis were used to hierarchically structure CSFs as well as to analyze their inter-relationships. The dependence and driver power of each factor were also analyzed. By doing this, this paper presents structural clarity and establishes a hierarchical order for prioritization for the decision-making. The findings show that most of the CSFs (19 out of 20) have strong inter-relationships. According to the law of vital few and trivial many, 80% of effects come from 20% of the causes for many events. This paper suggests that intensive effort should focus on the root source of CSFs: owner’s involvement and leadership, top management com­mitment, and strategic importance of the innovation project. Besides, external support, which is beyond the innovation project network, plays an important role in the success of innovation in China’s construction projects.