Bridging the Cognitive–Execution Gap in MEP Engineering: A Mixed-Methods Study from Taiwan

This study examined how mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) practitioners understand and apply quality and safety management in construction projects in Taiwan. It focused on the gap between what practitioners know about best practices and what they can carry out on site, defined here as the “Cognitive–Execution Gap.” A mixed-methods design was used, combining a questionnaire survey of 130 MEP practitioners with semi-structured interviews with six senior experts. Practitioners with MEP-related academic backgrounds scored significantly higher in professional knowledge and practice than those from unrelated fields, with mean differences of 0.87 and 0.78 points on a 5-point scale, respectively (both p < 0.001). In contrast, awareness of management optimization strategies was high and similar across all demographic groups. Interview findings suggest that schedule pressure, the lower organizational status of MEP compared with civil engineering, and persistent talent shortages prevent practitioners from applying the practices that they recognize as necessary. The results provide evidence consistent with a Cognitive–Execution Gap and suggest that bridging it requires organization-level reforms, including prospectively evaluated BIM-based coordination, clearer standard operating procedures and performance indicators, and structured mentorship programs to strengthen professional capacity in MEP engineering.