Multicriteria methodology for aligning managerial competencies with Critical Success Factors in construction firms

Construction project performance depends partly on managerial competencies and their alignment with organizational success conditions. However, existing competency models are predominantly compensatory and rarely explain how competencies relate to Critical Success Factors (CSFs). This study proposes an integrated non-compensatory multicriteria methodology combining DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory), the Minimum Performance Profile (MPP), and an ideal competency vector. DEMATEL identifies perceived causal relationships between competencies and CSFs, MPP establishes minimum role-specific competency thresholds, and the ideal vector quantifies gaps between current and target competency profiles. The methodology was applied in three construction firms of different sizes to identify key CSFs, determine associated competencies, assess managers against minimum role requirements, and identify competency gaps for managerial allocation and training. Results indicate that ‘Project’ was prominent among CSFs across the assessed influence structures, while ‘Project Manager’ and ‘Team’ were prominent in specific organizational contexts. ‘Decision-Making’, ‘Directness/Assertiveness’, and ‘Leadership’ emerged as influential competencies. The integrated methodology provides a structured basis for managerial allocation and targeted training by linking organizational success conditions, minimum role requirements, and competency development needs.