Selecting the Appropriate Construction Contract Type by Using the Analytical Hierarchy Process Approach

摘要

No contract type is perfect; one type may be better suited than another based on the unique requirements of a particular project. All of the contract types have distinct advantages and disadvantages with the best choice being governed by the requirements of the specific project. This research aimed at facilitating the owners' and contractors' need to select the appropriate contract type. Ten criteria were used to select the appropriate contract type between the lump sum, unit price and cost-plus types using one of the most popular multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) processes. This approach was the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Pre-questionnaires interviews, structured questionnaires were applied through the research methodology steps to reach the best contract type. Excel sheet was prepared for applying AHP procedure. The research determined the most appropriate contract type that was preferred selected by owners. The main findings of this research were the best contract type was the unit price contract. There were differences in the type of contract that achieves each criterion separately. The most effective criterion for selecting the appropriate contract type for owners was the achievement of best value for their money.