An investigation into perceptions of client-professional interactions at project inception: an Australian clients' perspective: pilot study results

There is a consensus between United Kingdom (UK) and Australian literature on the key factors that need to be addressed when clients and construction professionals are communicating at the project inception stage. The theoretical foundation to this research has already been established with key factors being identified. One of the objectives of this research pilot study, upon which this paper focuses, was to elicit the perceptions and experiences of construction clients, in Australia. The research method involved conducting a series of in-depth semi-structured interviews with 'experienced’ construction client representatives, in Australia. Ethnographic software was used to code, sort and analyse the interview data. The data were analysed by comparing Australian clients’ perceptions against each other to identify if any significant consensus existed. The results strongly support the key outcomes of the literature review, reinforcing the importance of: comprehensive project briefs; the use of appropriate procurement procedures; and the definition of client and professional roles, responsibilities and communication systems. The research impact is a greater understanding of the nature of formative client-professional interaction and relationship development, from the perspective of experienced clients.