Critical design factors for minimising waste in construction projects: A structural equation modelling approach

The study suggests that construction waste could be significantly reduced by designing for standard materials size and by designing for modern method of construction, thereby minimising waste due to breakage, materials leftover and other major causes of waste. The study further suggests that the design process and design documentation are key underlying measures for mitigating waste in construction projects. This could be enhanced through such critical success factors as a collaborative delivery process, which is characterised by early involvement of contractors and adequate coordination of design between various disciplines involved. Findings of this study would assist designers and other construction stakeholders in understanding the significant measures for designing out waste in construction projects.