Capabilities required of the conventional project delivery (CPD) approach in producing quality design documentation: the Ghanaian construction industry perspective

Purpose The conventional project delivery (CPD) approach has been reported in the literature as the most widely used project delivery method in the construction industry globally compared to other delivery methods. However, researchers and practitioners have argued that the approach, specifically during the production of design documentation under the CPD, lacks certain capabilities that ensure quality and enhance project delivery. Therefore, this study aims to use the Ghanaian construction industry to identify the capabilities required of the CPD in practice, particularly during the production of design documentation. Design/methodology/approach The study design follows a pragmatist philosophy and uses mixed methods based on a deductive approach. Data collection involved a questionnaire survey, followed by semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics, whereas qualitative data analysis used content analysis with the assistance of IBM SPSS and QSR Nvivo 12 Pro. Findings Findings indicate that there should be incentives for producing good design documentation quality; mandatory coordination of design documentation; improving collaboration among designers; and allowing contractors to make input during the design stage. Practical implications The results indicate the need for the identified capabilities to be introduced in the CPD approach to improve design documentation quality. Originality/value This study offers a significant insight into the specific capabilities that are required of the CPD approach in practice particularly, in the production of design documentation