Construction Project Performance Research: A Bibliometric, Scientometric, and Qualitative Review (1989–2023)

Abstract

Despite the significant increase in publications on construction project performance (CPP), there is a deficiency of research that rigorously assesses and synthesizes previous studies to delineate the field’s development, themes, and research gaps. This article employs quantitative and qualitative methodologies to critically evaluate studies on CPP published over the last three decades and indexed in the Scopus database. The quantitative approach includes bibliometric searches and scientometric analyses to assess the extent of research interest and achievements. The qualitative methodology aims to conduct thorough content analysis to classify existing material based on prevalent themes. The results demonstrate an exponential growth of interest in this scientific research topic. Project management, construction industry, construction projects, project performance, and critical success factors are top keywords in pertinent research publications. This research field has been investigated in over 50 nations and published in over 100 scholarly journals. The United States and the Journal of Construction Engineering and Management are the primary contributors. Prior studies were categorized according to their objectives into four main research themes: project performance assessment and prediction, project performance improvement, critical success factors, and key performance indicators. This article uncovers research gaps and suggests avenues for further investigations. Researchers and practitioners may utilize the findings of this study to evaluate and implement CPP principles.