Barrier of technology transfer for construction projects: a comparative study between Iran and Malaysia

Abstract

Technology transfer in the international construction industry is an important source as it helps companies move to better stages of design and construction capabilities. Three main barriers of technology transfer in construction have been identified through literature review - language barrier, cultural barrier and procurement options. The importance of these barriers has been verified through surveys in the construction industry in Iran and Malaysia. Totally 102 responses were received. Most of construction professionals in Iran and Malaysia consider technology transfer as an important issue in construction. Through SPSS application, the impacts of these barriers have been analysed. The impact percentages are; language barrier: 12.1%, cultural barrier: 52.8% and procurement options 88.3%. In comparison between Iranian construction professionals and Malaysia professionals, Malaysians showed less impact in language and culture barrier but higher impact in procurement options than Iranians. Future researches are required in procurement options particularly in Iran.

Keywords: Technology Transfer; Construction; Barrier