Setting a Course to Validate and Operationalize Quality II in Construction

Quality II is a nascent paradigm (i.e., a distinct set of concepts) for reducing and containing errors and mitigating rework in construction. It has emerged from empirical observations of best practices implemented in two large-scale infrastructure assets delivered using alliancing—a relational delivery strategy—underpinned by: (1) a contractual joint venture agreement (CJV) that fosters a collaborative “no-blame” culture where all parties aim to deliver best-for-project outcomes; (2) sharing of risks and rewards; (3) delivering value for money; and (4) a program of continuous improvement. Questions, however, surround the generalizability of Quality II beyond the alliances from which best practices were identified. This paper introduces the concepts of Quality II and discusses the need to validate and operationalize its use more broadly within the practice of project procurement. The contributions of this paper are twofold: (1) a new way to contain (i.e., enhance the detection and minimize the adverse consequences) and reduce (i.e., limit the occurrence of) errors in construction is introduced—Quality II; and (2) it provides opportunities to initiate the cultural and organizational changes in practice needed to improve performance and productivity in construction.