Frontline Supervisor Communication Efficiency in the Construction Industry

The efficiency of communication in the construction industry is crucial for the successful management of construction projects. Frontline Supervisors are construction professionals that have daily impact on physical construction. These supervisors have the unique challenge of managing various tasks, schedules, and people in order to complete their scope of work on time. With many methods of communication today, construction managers are searching for the most effective way to communicate with supervisors on all levels. This research project aims to study the quality of communication and quantity of communication methods among front line supervisors working on construction sites in Phoenix, Arizona. Findings may inform what types of communication, e.g., face-to-face individual conversations, in-person meeting, cell phone conversations, emails, etc., are most effective for frontline supervisors. The results of this research paper will be used to aid general contractors in their communication decisions. This research will also serve as a jumping point for future research on construction communication. Researchers at Arizona State University will be able to use the information collected in this research paper to continue communication surveys in the Phoenix metro area. By continuing this project, researchers will be able to inform contractors to make decisions that benefit trade partners and contractors.