A systems thinking approach for managing design change complexities in UAE construction projects

This study investigates the complexities of construction delays in the UAE arising from design changes and proposes a system-based approach to improve their management across the project lifecycle. A case study strategy was adopted, employing semi-structured interviews and site observations to capture stakeholder-specific perspectives on the causes, impacts, and mechanisms of design changes. Using thematic analysis, the study integrates systems thinking to map interdependencies between stakeholders, project phases, and design change events. The findings demonstrate that design changes represent multi-dimensional challenges requiring coordinated, stakeholder-sensitive strategies. This study introduces a novel systems thinking-based model incorporating storytelling techniques to support the management of design changes in UAE. By addressing project complexity holistically, the model provides a foundation for improving design change management across diverse project contexts.