Evaluating Readability Risks in Construction Contracts Using Fuzzy TOPSIS Method


Künkcü H., Koç K., Gürgün A. P.

7th international Project and Construction Management Conference (IPCMC2022), İstanbul, Turkey, 20 - 22 October 2022, pp.1490-1495

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • City: İstanbul
  • Country: Turkey
  • Page Numbers: pp.1490-1495
  • Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Construction contracts play a significant role in the success of a project. Multiple interpretation of contract clauses in construction contracts may cause adverse outcomes between contracting parties. Therefore, an analysis of risks influencing readability of construction contracts is essential. In this study, fuzzy technique for order of preference by the similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is proposed to assess the readability risks judged by construction professionals who have experience in the construction sector. The findings indicated that unnecessary complexity in noun phrases and improper use of referents, lack of visual representations, and unnecessary length in the clauses, sentences, and words were the most significant risks; while inclusion of matters which are more effectively covered in the technical specification, paraphrasing existing law, and lack of flowcharts between clauses were the least significant risks. The findings are expected to help construction professionals  improve readability of construction contracts, aiding to reduce conflicts.