Capitol News

Michigan State University has conducted new research highlighting the importance of communication in improving large-scale construction projects. The study, led by Professor Sinem Mollaoglu from MSU's School of Planning, Design and Construction, focused on real-world teams over two years using green-certified building projects as a test environment.

Mollaoglu emphasized the significance of communication, stating, “We found that how people communicate — not just what they do — shapes project success.” The research showed that teams with better knowledge sharing and stronger internal networks were more resilient and capable of overcoming challenges.

The MSU team employed various tools such as email analysis, surveys, meeting records, and digital platforms to create "network maps." These maps visually demonstrated team interactions, helping to identify miscommunications and key players. This allowed for timely feedback during construction phases.

The study revealed that team members often imitate the knowledge-sharing behaviors of their peers. However, project "opinion leaders" or experts are less likely to be influenced by peer pressure but instead influence others. Their role is crucial in shaping how knowledge flows between disciplines and organizations.

To enhance collaboration in architecture, engineering, and construction projects, Mollaoglu suggested intentional network design. This involves strategically assigning personnel and engaging experts in critical areas to build adaptable teams.

Supported by a $1.4 million National Science Foundation Future of Work grant, the research extended into combining construction with data science and workforce development. This initiative aims to shape a smarter future for the building industry through new learning modules for project-based teaching.

“The research didn’t just stay in the lab,” Mollaoglu said. It provided practical responses to real-world disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic while also training future industry leaders. One Ph.D. student secured a data engineering job at a construction firm following an NSF-funded internship; another became a civil engineering professor.

To engage younger audiences, the team developed a web-based game introducing K-12 students to teamwork in engineering projects. “When it comes to large infrastructure projects, steel and concrete matter, but it’s communication that holds everything together,” added Mollaoglu.

Collaborators on this project included MSU colleagues Kenneth Frank, Dong Zhao, Angelo Joseph Garcia, and doctoral students Meltem Duva and Hasan Bayhan. Funding was provided by the National Science Foundation’s Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation and Engineering Design Systems Engineering.