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The Impact of Contract Functions on Contractors’ Performance Behaviors: A Mixed-Methods Approach

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Understanding how contract functions influence contractors’ performance behaviors is critical for improving project outcomes in the construction industry. Drawing on contractual governance theory, this study explores the differential impacts of three core contract functions—control, coordination, and adaptation—on contractor behaviors, distinguishing between perfunctory and consummate performance. A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining a survey of 345 contractors with semi-structured interviews. Quantitative results indicate that contract control increases perfunctory behavior and reduces consummate behavior, contract coordination stimulates both types of behaviors, while contract adaptation reduces perfunctory behavior and enhances consummate behavior. Qualitative findings further identify boundary conditions such as fairness, trust, and project uncertainty. From a theoretical perspective, the study refines contractual governance theory by clarifying the behavioral implications of multifunctional contracts. From a practical perspective, it offers guidance for contract design that balances compliance and collaboration to encourage proactive contractor engagement.

Source: Buildings

DOI: 10.3390/buildings15193438

Authors: Mingzhu Yang, Haitao Chen, Yongshun Xu, Jinjian Wu

Institutions: Jilin University, Jilin Jianzhu University, Hainan University, China Construction Eighth Engineering Division (China)

Language: English

Topic: Construction Project Management and Performance

Subfield: Management Science and Operations Research

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137

Funder: National Natural Science Foundation of China