An Integrated AHP-TOPSIS Methodology for Selecting Suitable Project Delivery Method for Construction Projects

Abstract

Selecting the appropriate Project Delivery Method (PDM) for a project can influence a project’s success significantly. No one PDM is the perfect option for all projects. The most suitable PDM should be chosen based on specific requirements, characteristics, and success factors of the project. Design-bid-build (DBB), Design-Build (DB), and construction management at risk (CMR) are typical PDM alternatives that owners can choose based on the specific needs of the project. PDM selection is a multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) problem that is affected by several factors. In this research, a three-phase model will be presented. First, a list of critical factors that affect PDM selection is developed. Second, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is used to derive selection criteria weights based on the owner’s needs and preferences. Finally, having criteria weights, the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is proposed for ranking PDM alternatives. The results provide decision makers with a systematic solution to overcome the challenges in selecting the most suitable PDM for their projects.