The effect of contract management systems on quality management systems in construction industry: the mediating role of Quality 4.0 technologies

Purpose This research work aims to investigate the effect of the contract management system (CMS) on the quality management system (QMS) with a focus on the mediating role of Quality 4.0 technologies in the construction industry in Palestine. Design/methodology/approach The survey method collected the data of a random sample of 95 questionnaires from top and middle managers who works in Palestinian construction contracting companies. The partial least squares structural equation modeling technique was used for the data analysis. Findings The findings contribute to the current literature by displaying a significant association between CMS and Quality 4.0, where each shows a significant effect on QMS in construction companies. Furthermore, the research revealed that CMS has a significant indirect effect on QMS in construction companies, mediated by Quality 4.0. Originality/value In Palestine, there is a scarcity of empirical studies that address the relationship between contract and quality management in practices in the construction industry. Such studies become more important because of the unique secularities of construction industry represented, mainly, by a set of economic, political, social, legal, administrative, financial and environmental constraints in the Palestinian construction industry. This study helps decision-makers in the Palestinian construction industry in identifying and assessing the enabling factors to adopt and implement the Quality 4.0 technologies and understand its mediation impact between CMS and QMS to stay competitive in the market and achieve client satisfaction.