A review of international construction joint ventures research in construction journals

Abstract

Research on international construction joint ventures (ICJVs) has increased for the past two decades, and the aim of this contribution is to conduct a systematic review to identify current research priorities and future research directions for development. It analyzed the trend of ICJV research in terms of annual publication, countries’ contributions, contributions by institutions and researchers, and research interests. This study fills this gap through a comprehensive and systematic analysis of selected ICJV research papers published in 17 selected CM journals from 1990 to 2018. Scopus search engine was used with some related keywords, a systematic desktop search was conducted, followed by the selection of journals and papers. The results indicated that while the largest contribution to ICJV research has come from developed countries like Singapore, the UK, and the US, developing countries like China and Turkey have also made an enormous contribution. Also, the output of this study shows the pioneer authors and the leading institutes. The key research topics covered within the study period include entry modes, formation decision strategies, and operation; risk assessment and management practices; performance evaluation; dispute resolution mechanisms; management issues in ICJVs; influential factors for ICJV practice; and technology transfer. The findings provide an in-depth understanding of ICJV research to practitioners and researchers and stimulate future research based on the identified gaps.