Forming identity in a construction development multi-project – A case study

Abstract

In the construction industry, especially in alliance projects, studies have shown a dependency between smooth cooperation among those working on the project and the success of the project. In previous studies, this seamless cooperation has been described as meaning a clear strategic vision, total alignment of the goals and means, adaptation to complexity, and the "we" spirit. These factors are all inexorably linked to a common identity.

Since recent research in the construction industry has focused mainly on the study of the formation of the project identity of alliances, less attention has been paid to the study of formation of identity in other types of multi-projects or internal communication of the identity in the project.

Based on the interviews of the case project members and other supporting material, I present a grounded theory of the formation of a project’s identity in a multi-project environment. In addition to this, I will discuss the methods of communication in a multi-project environment. My key finding is that the formation of a project identity is a continuous process in which communication plays a central role. My research provides more insight into how the identity of an individual megaproject is formed and how communication between its internal projects takes place in a multi-project. In the future, this information can be used to support the implementation and strengthening of the internal identity of a project within a megaproject.

Although this study is limited to only one case in a construction company within a multi-project environment, I observed noteworthy similarities in my case project with the existing literature about project identity and organization identity. Therefore, I recommend conducting further studies about project identity in a multi-project environment in order to research whether similar results would occur within other organizations. Also, conducting a longer-term study, following the formation of a project identity in a multi-project starting from the development phase and ending when the building is commissioned would benefit the construction industry in understanding the importance of project identity.