Due to its critical importance to the profitability of most construction projects, productivity is one
of the most frequently discussed topics in the construction industry. It is also one of the most
frequently used performance indicators to assess the success of a construction project as it is the
most crucial and flexible resource used in such (Construction Industry Institute 2006). Academic
research papers published in relation to construction labor productivity (CLP) are important to
both researchers and industry practitioners. However, research topics under CLP are highly
diversified, and there is a lack of systematic analysis in CLP-related issues. Integration and
classification of the reported literature within the CLP domain may pave the way for future
researchers to gain a clear understanding of the topic and to conduct related research more
intensively and efficiently. It is therefore considered important to summarize the developments of
CLP research through a systematic review, and to suggest new directions for further studies.
This research presents a systematic review on labor productivity in the construction industry. The
aims of this review are to investigate the state of the art and trends in CLP research, and to identify
key research areas. It will help industrialists to develop a body of knowledge about CLP and to
derive an approach to enhance CLP. Scholars are also provided with research references to