Are Construction Pipeline Information Reliable: The Primacy of Internally Generated Data in Strategic Decision Making

The construction industry in New Zealand is a vital contributor to the nation's economic growth, employment, and business expansion. However, to align with the government's objectives of affordable, secure, and sustainable housing and infrastructure, the industry must adeptly navigate the uncertainties in infrastructure pipelines. Infrastructure pipeline information is crucial in guiding construction stakeholders and government in making strategic decisions about when, where, and how to invest in projects across New Zealand. This study investigates the reliability of construction pipeline information and its impact on strategic decision-making within construction organisations, with a particular focus on the primacy of internally generated data. Through a systematic literature review of 53 publications from 2005-2025, the research identified the factors influencing information quality and evaluates the challenges associated with utilizing both internal and external data sources for strategic decision-making. The findings reveal that while internally generated data offers more context-specific insights, organizations must balance this with external sources to avoid data silos and maintain market awareness. The study identifies key factors affecting information quality, including system integration, data access, organizational readiness, and management commitment. Results indicate that construction organisations with robust internal data management practices demonstrate superior strategic outcomes, though the effectiveness of those internal information systems is heavily dependent on organizational preparedness and proper implementation frameworks.