Improving the main contractor-subcontractor relationship through partnering on construction projects

The construction sector plays a significant role in the national economy through consolidating and enabling other sectors. Projects in the construction industry provide basic amenities and infrastructures that support social and economic development. Subcontracting is a major aspect of construction projects as it allows for specialisation, the sharing responsibilities and mitigation of project risks. However, instead of improving project success, subcontracting can act as a catalyst for poor project outcomes. Though there are many reasons that contribute to problems from subcontracting, a strained relationship between main contractors and subcontractors can be seen as a notorious contributor to poor project outcome. The study aimed at investigating the relationship between main contractors and subcontractors in Zambia and to provide a means to improve the relationship. To investigate the relationship, data collection techniques utilised included, literature review, questionnaire survey and interviews. The study established that the relationship between main contractors and subcontractors on most projects in Zambia is poor therefore needing attention. Top factors that can enhance the main contractor-subcontractor relationship were identified. From the factors deduced a non-contractual project partnering model was developed with the aim of improving this relationship