This chapter discusses the problem of declining productivity in the construction industry in the US, highlighting a report from 1968 and a new paper by economists revealing a significant decrease in productivity over the past 50 years. It emphasizes the link between declining productivity and higher prices.
Most industries have become more productive over time. But not construction! We identify the causes — and possible solutions. (Can you say ... “prefab”?)
RESOURCES:
EXTRAS:
SOURCES:
- Vaughan Buckley, founder and C.E.O. of the Volumetric Building Companies.
- Carrie Sturts Dossick, professor of construction management at the University of Washington.
- Ed Glaeser, professor of economics and chair the economics department at Harvard University.
- Michael Hough, director of MJH Structural Engineers.
- Ivan Rupnik, professor of architecture at Northeastern University.
- Chad Syverson, professor of economics at the University of Chicago.