Factors affecting workforce productivity in road construction projects: A statistical analysis from Nepal

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key factors affecting labor productivity in road construction projects and to identify strategies for improving workforce performance in the construction industry. A mixed-methods research approach was adopted, integrating quantitative and qualitative analyses. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires using a five-point Likert scale to assess construction professionals' perceptions of productivity-related factors. The analysis identified five major factors significantly influencing labor productivity: labor experience, remuneration, material availability, quality of supervision, and weather conditions. The findings further revealed distinct differences in productivity between skilled and unskilled labor, underscoring the need for differentiated management practices and workforce development strategies. The study also demonstrated that inadequate planning, poor material management, and insufficient supervision adversely affect project performance and labor efficiency. Based on the findings, several practical measures are recommended, including providing competitive remuneration, improving project scheduling, ensuring efficient resource allocation, implementing effective inventory control systems, adopting standardized design practices, and establishing sound financial planning mechanisms. In addition, the study highlights the importance of adequate break periods in reducing worker fatigue and enhancing productivity. Finally, the research emphasizes the lack of universally accepted criteria for measuring labor productivity in construction projects and recommends developing standardized productivity measurement frameworks to improve consistency, benchmarking, and overall project performance across the industry.