Communication in Construction: Theory and Practice

Communication within project-based environments presents special challenges. This is especially true within the construction industry. Many of the problems that develop in construction projects are a result of both the temporary and inter-disciplinary nature of project teams - each player having a different employer compounds this arrangement. Practical guidance is provided on possible solutions to communication problems, and a number of examples and case studies are presented, especially with relation to the construction industry. Several non-typical perspectives on the process of communication are introduced, to encourage the reader to think about communication in a more innovative manner. "Thinking with diagrams," for example, is useful for those, such as architects, who work primarily with visual communication media. This can be contrasted with the "visual perception" approach, which emphasizes the rational and scientific aspects of human biology. The combination of differing perspectivesillustrates the diversity of communication problems facing those working within project-based environments.

Michael Murray is a Lecturer in Construction Management within the Department of Architecture at the University of Strathclyde.