Demotivating factors influencing productivity in Jordanian residential construction projects

Residential construction involves labour‐intensive tasks where workers are frequently confronted with problems that could lead to demotivation. Demotivation is caused not simply by a lack of motivators but the existence of certain situations that cause dissatisfaction and discourage individuals, therefore reducing overall productivity potential. Since low productivity is one of the significant challenges facing the construction industry in Jordan, the objective of this study is to identify the most critical factors that demotivate manpower in the residential projects in Jordan. A host of causes of demotivation in residential projects are identified and classified according to Thomas's factor model. The most common causes are evaluated by using both, the data collected in a survey conducted to residential projects contactors and workers, and interviews with senior professionals in the field. Most correspondents agree that, working overtime and specifications and quality requirements are the leading causes of demotivation. Lack of suitable tools and sequencing problems rank among the least important causes. Although this study is specific to the country of Jordan, its results can be applicable to other developing countries facing similar problems in their residential construction sectors.