Review of concepts and trends in international construction joint ventures research

Abstract

The adoption of international construction joint ventures (ICJVs) of late for more complex and large-scale construction projects across the globe has drawn an increasing broad range of research interest since the early 1990s. A number of studies on ICJVs focusing on diverse perspectives have been published by globally renowned construction management (CM) journals over the past two decades. However, a systematic review of research development in this domain is still lacking. Thus, it is critical to conduct a comprehensive review to detect current research priorities and future research directions for development. This study aims to fill this gap through a comprehensive and systematic analysis of selected ICJV research papers published in 17 selected CM journals from 1990 to 2018. Using Scopus search engine and keywords, a systematic desktop search was conducted, followed by the selection of journals and papers. It analyzed the trend of ICJV research in terms of annual publication, countries’ contributions, contributions by institutions and researchers, data collection and analysis methods adopted, and research interests. The results highlighted an increasing attention to ICJV research within the studied period. Also, 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 enormous contributions. Key research topics covered 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. This study also suggests useful directions for future research. The findings provide an in-depth understanding of ICJV research to practitioners and researchers and stimulate future research based on the identified gaps.