British Construction Business 1700-2000: Proactive Innovation or Reactive Evolution?

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to study the British construction sector c.1700-2000 and compare its “proactive” innovative development with “reactive” business evolution. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative, interpretative, literature synthesis was used in this paper. Findings: Each of the three centuries observed exhibits distinct construction business (CB) characteristics resulting mainly from exogenous influences, including: macroeconomic forces, demand volatility, supply chain and allied sectors’ evolvement, division of labour, competition and technological change. For most CB organisations, innovation was principally an exogenous influence vis-à-vis endogenous strategic intention. Research limitations/implications: The study adds to a dearth of historical CB research and its documentation. Practical implications: The evolvement of construction organisations will be of relevance to CB stakeholders. Originality/value: Construction history is under-researched. Contrasting CB innovation and evolution is novel.