Decision-making Model by Specialty Subcontractors in Construction Projects

Specialty subcontractors enter construction projects because of their expertise or possession of special machineries and skilled workers or both. Like other project-based organizations, specialty subcontractors gain their organizational knowledge during projects. However, experiencing specific limited tasks several times in different circumstances raises their level of knowledge over that of other parties and impedes knowledge deterioration over time. This organizational knowledge distinguishes them from other parties involved in construction projects. Despite their critical role in the construction industry, specialty subcontractors have not received enough attention from academia. This study looks at the procedures of different knowledge that specialty subcontractors acquire through their experience and the way they use it in their future jobs. This study proposes a decision-making model exercised by the specialty contractors, which differentiates events from routines. The model was validated through interviews with constructional professionals. This model clarifies the potential contribution of subcontractors in managing knowledge in different stages of construction projects.