Ripple effects in construction supply chains: Risk identification, propagation, and mitigation in SMEs

Chen, Shicheng ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7878-1635 2026. Ripple effects in construction supply chains: Risk identification, propagation, and mitigation in SMEs. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This thesis examines the ripple effect within construction supply chains, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Although the ripple effect has been widely investigated in supply chain contexts, research addressing its characteristics in the construction sector remains limited. To bridge this gap, this study identifies the key triggers of ripple effects in construction SMEs, evaluates their relative importance, and explores how ripple effects materialise and influence project performance in practice. Using a multiple-method approach, the research combines thematic analysis, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), and an in-depth case study. Four overarching categories of risk: Financial, safety, design, and contractual, were identified as the primary triggers of ripple effects in construction SMEs. The AHP results reveal substantial variation in risk perception across six SME sub-sectors, with safety and financial risks exerting the highest overall influence. A detailed case study of a renovation project further demonstrates how ripple effects evolve across project phases and propagate among stakeholders, affecting time, cost, and quality outcomes. Supported by Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs), the study visualises the mechanisms through which ripple effects escalate or are contained and identifies the role of communication, design accuracy, and supervision in shaping their impacts. The thesis makes three key contributions. First, it proposes a structured framework for examining ripple effects in construction SMEs and identifies 13 risk factors that drive ripple propagation. Second, it introduces a new SME sub-sector categorisation that enables targeted risk analysis and supports more effective management strategies. Third, the study enhances both theoretical and practical understanding of ripple dynamics in project-based supply chains. Overall, the research advances knowledge on ripple effects within the construction domain and provides actionable recommendations to strengthen SME supply chain.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Business (Including Economics)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	1. Ripple Effect 2. Construction 3. SMEs 4. Supply chain 5. Risk management 6. Empirical study
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	23 October 2026
Last Modified:	23 Oct 2026 13:31
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/190268

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