This book tells you everything you need to know about international
construction: the companies, their markets, the types of projects they
build, how they compete and operate and how it affects us all. It paints
a comprehensive portrait of an overlooked global business that generates
a major portion of the GDP in every developed nation. As with any mature
sector, countries make efforts to export their expertise, but the
competition in construction is fierce, and the risks are many. Only the
leanest and meanest survive. What, then, does it take to win? Most
writing on construction focuses at the project-management level or even
more narrowly at the level of technical performance. This book presents
the big picture; it tells you what successful international construction
companies do to stay in the game and thrive.
The book examines international construction through three lenses. The
first is theory. The body of existing knowledge on construction is here
brought together, condensed and explained. The second are the actors.
The companies that lead the way in global construction are showcased,
and the features that make countries desirable hosts are appraised.
Finally, what is it that firms actually do? This last part delves into
the various strategic approaches taken by 60 construction firms in
carving out and defending an overseas market niche. The insights provide
guidance on how global construction companies develop competitive
advantage and stay resilient in the face of a mercurial global economy.
These lessons will be of interest to the student and manager alike.
