Network Topologies and Team Performance: A Comparative Study of AEC Projects

The inherent characteristics of the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry require experts from various organizations and disciplines to collaborate toward shared project goals. However, it is significantly difficult to connect individuals from diverse disciplines, backgrounds, organizations, and effectively integrate their knowledge. Social network approach addresses integration and know-how flow dynamics. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding how network topologies (i.e., parameters relating to nodes, ties, boundaries, and their placements across network) help improve knowledge transfers and optimize project outcomes. Thus, this study compares the network topologies of two similar AEC project teams. We collected e-mail exchange, observational, and archival data and conducted surveys from two projects during the construction phase and performed mixed methods of analysis. The study findings showed different network topologies between the two projects and one of the project networks evolved based on the project needs which yielded better performance. The results suggest that network parameters are not meaningful alone and engagement and network topology matter in measuring AEC project team performance. The results shed light on dynamic and multidimensional characteristics of knowledge transfer networks in complex project teams and contribute to the body of knowledge by providing a methodology in studying project teams in this light.