Construction projects: a compilation and content analysis of delay-causing factors

This study aims to assess the existing literature on the causes of project delays in the global construction sector, compile it, and identify any research gaps. The author used the construction project delay-related keywords to search literature published after 2010. In total, 55 articles were considered for compilation based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The content analysis resulted in identifying the factors that contributed to the project’s delay. These factors were grouped based on themes using successive coding. The most important finding from the literature review is that minimal emphasis has been placed on identifying the delay causes from multiple stakeholders’ perspectives. Additionally, the impact of quality and safety-related issues was not adequately addressed in the delay-related studies. The study identifies the gaps in the previous research carried out in construction delay analysis which can be considered for future research.