Successful verification of subcontracted work in the construction industry

Due to specific characteristics of the construction industry, such as a highly fragmented supply chain, suppliers play an essential role in construction projects. A major shift in tasks and responsibilities in the construction industry from client to contractor, has an effect on the verification problems contractors face when subcontracting work to suppliers. To manaage the design and verifictation process, systems engineering is increasingly used in the construction industry. This paper explores, by using a literature review and cast study, which verification problems are faced. A conceptual framework, is applied to categorize these problems and to find suitable solutions, using systems engineering tools, for improving a contractor's procurement strategy and for solving verification problems once they do occur. The major finding in this paper is that causes of verification problems can be found at both the contractor and the supplier side. Some improvements are suggested for both these sides.