Strategic Implications of Intangible Resources and Capabilities on Construction Logistics - A Case Study of NCC’s Intangible Resources and Capabilities

Abstract

The report addressed the topic of intangible resources, capabilities and strategy in relation to construction logistics. This was done through a case study of NCC, a major Swedish construction company. The background highlighted the relevance of this research based on the lagging labor-productivity development within the construction industry, the lacking amount of strategy found within construction logistics and further, the lacking contextualization of the resource based view (RBV) to construction logistics. Followingly, the report aimed to answer two questions, one regarding what intangible resources and capabilities can be found to be insufficient at NCC, and the second regarding how NCC should act strategically based on that. This was performed through a qualitative, single case study utilizing semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis. The report included interviews with employees at NCC, a professor, as well as an external logistical partner. The findings identified a set of themes based on codes which was later connected to theory in the analysis section to answer the research questions. Regarding the first research question, the report highlights how NCC can be seen to have insufficient organizational resources, knowledge resources and managerial capabilities in relation to construction logistics. Further, lacking dynamic capabilities was shown related to construction logistics through inadequate help and support, cultural resistance, insufficient logistical education and unstructured collaborations. The answer to the second research question is shown through a problem solving model signaling that NCC ought to clearly define their logistical roles, create further strategic congruence between projects and business areas as well as enforce stricter requirements on construction logistics. Additionally, measures to develop logistical knowledge must be performed, more project manager support is necessary and certain documentation must be required. The report shines a light on the fact that construction logistics within the Swedish context has the potential for many improvements related to efficiency and competitive advantage. Regarding the theoretical contribution, the report augments the RBV through a contextualization, providing groundwork to further the understanding of strategy within construction logistics.