Interfaces, flows, and problems of construction supply chains: A case study in Brazil

This research investigates the interfaces, flows, and problems of construction supply chains in the infrastructure sector. The discussion focuses on how construction companies should manage different interfaces between suppliers and project sites, not only from a temporary project perspective but also from a long-term enterprise viewpoint. Such interfaces are studied according to the flows of information, capital, and materials connecting the different parties in supply chains. In this context, a framework comprising interfaces and flows is developed. Based on such framework, problems of construction supply chains are identified and positioned accordingly. Therefore, the main purpose of this paper is to develop and implement a framework for addressing interfaces, flows, and problems of construction supply chains. This underlying research was developed in a Brazilian contractor, responsible for infrastructure projects such as tunnelling, earthworks, and highways construction. In addition, eleven of its suppliers were included in the empirical investigation. Data has been collected in semi-structured interviews, meetings, collection and analysis of documents, observation of meetings, workshops, site visits, and from the company's ERP database. It was found a lack of awareness regarding the existence of the abovementioned supply chains' interfaces and flows, the root causes of supply chain problems, and the implications of supply chain issues in project delivery. This research has two limitations: was developed in the context of infrastructure projects and investigates a single case-study. Implications from this paper are directed to the research field of frameworks for managing construction supply chains.