This chapter discusses the historical trend of declining productivity in the construction sector in the United States over the past 50 years. It explores various theories and factors that may explain this decline, including regulation, internal issues within the industry, and lack of capital investment. The chapter also highlights the challenges and risks involved in construction projects and mentions the potential benefits of using technology to improve efficiency.
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.