The Identification and Prioritization of Critical Success Factors in Healthcare Projects Through the Application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)

Abstract

The integrity of healthcare infrastructure is a critical determinant in the provision of dependable healthcare services; thus, the successful execution of healthcare construction projects is a significant concern for the Iranian healthcare authority, due to their direct impact on societal well-being. The extant research highlights that beyond cost, time, and quality, which are universally acknowledged as pivotal project success indicators, various elements such as legal considerations, feasibility assessments, and strategic planning play critical roles in determining the outcome of these projects. This paper employs a qualitative methodology to identify 29 success factors specific to healthcare construction projects within the Iranian context. Notable among these are appropriate construction practices, adherence to contemporary healthcare standards, financial viability, and environmental sustainability. Subsequent to this identification, these factors were prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Given the challenge associated with managing all 29 factors, the study emphasizes the importance of focusing on key factors. For the data collection necessary for the AHP analysis, a questionnaire comprising 406 items was developed, and completed by five experts, each with a minimum of 15 years of experience in healthcare construction projects. The findings indicate that factors such as personnel expertise, maintenance efficiency, project management acumen, financial management, and compliance with standards are prioritized over others. The insights generated by this study have enhanced the understanding of project managers regarding the critical success factors in healthcare construction projects, suggesting that by allocating resources and efforts towards these high-priority areas, the likelihood of project success can be significantly improved.