INTERVIEW REPORT
CE 410
Presented to the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture
And Technology Sciences Department
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the
CE410 – CONSTRUCTION METHODS AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
SUBMITTED BY:
KAREN LIE GUTIERREZ BALAO
BSCE – 4B
21 – 1 – 0610
SUBMITTED TO:
ENGR. PATRISHA CAGUIOA MADRONA
INSTRUCTOR
INTRODUCTION
The construction industry plays a fundamental role in shaping modern
society, providing essential infrastructure for residential, commercial, and
large-scale projects. It is a complex field that integrates engineering,
architecture, project management, and skilled labor to transform designs into
reality. Beyond its contribution to economic growth, urban development, and
job creation, construction is a dynamic industry where collaboration among
various stakeholders is crucial for project success.
However, due to the intricate nature of construction projects—
characterized by tight schedules, resource limitations, and involvement of
multiple parties—disputes are a common challenge. These conflicts may arise
from contractual disagreements, design modifications, unforeseen site
conditions, delays, budget overruns, and communication breakdowns. If left
unaddressed, disputes can disrupt workflows, escalate costs, and strain
relationships between clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
To navigate these challenges effectively, industry professionals employ
diverse dispute resolution strategies such as negotiation, mediation,
arbitration, and other structured approaches. Engineers, architects, site
managers, and legal experts rely on their experience to minimize risks, foster
cooperation, and ensure project continuity. Understanding the causes of
construction disputes and the solutions applied by professionals is essential
for improving conflict management within the industry.
To deepen our understanding of these disputes, I conducted interviews
with experienced professionals actively involved in construction project
planning, execution, and dispute resolution. Engineers, architects, and site
managers shared their perspectives on the common conflicts they encounter,
their root causes, and the strategies they implement to resolve disputes
efficiently. Their insights provide valuable knowledge on maintaining
productivity, collaboration, and professionalism in the construction sector.
FIRST INTERVIEW
Name of Interviewee: Queen Alyssa C. Alvaira
Position in their Company: Site Engineer/ Technical Staff
Year/s of Experience: 5 months
Question 1: What are the most common causes of construction disputes you
are encountering nowadays?
“One of the most common causes of construction disputes is a
delayed construction schedule due to unforeseen site conditions or poor
performance by construction workers.
Question 2: How do you (or your team/company/organization) handle these
disputes?
“In order to handle these kinds of disputes, first, clear
communication is essential, especially when addressing issues on the
construction site. Holding regular toolbox meetings to discuss project
status can help identify the causes of delays. Second, it is important to
determine who is responsible for the delays in order to find ways to get
back on schedule. Having a realistic construction schedule that takes
weather conditions into account is also beneficial for accommodating
unexpected delays.”
SECOND INTERVIEW
Name of Interviewee: Kristian G. Fetalsana
Position in their Company: Exterior and Interior Designer, General
Contractor
Year/s of Experience: 10 years
Question 1: What are the most common causes of construction disputes you
are encountering nowadays?
“Payment disputes remain one of the most frequent challenges in
the construction industry. Late or non-payment for completed work can
lead to delays, financial strain, and in extreme cases, project
termination.”
Question 2: How do you (or your team/company/organization) handle these
disputes?
“We ensure that payment terms are clear and strictly followed
from the outset. To avoid misunderstandings, we maintain accurate
records of work completed, approvals, invoices, and change orders.”
THIRD INTERVIEW
Name of Interviewee: Patrick M. Carandang
Position in their Company: Engineer II, Quality Assurance Section (QA/QC)
Year/s of Experience: 6 years
Question 1: What are the most common causes of construction disputes you
are encountering nowadays?
“In terms of dispute, there are many kinds. Dispute with
coworkers, dispute with the owner or dispute from the other persons
involved in the project.”
Question 2: How do you (or your team/company/organization) handle these
disputes?
“If we say we have a dispute with other workers regarding the
project. We have to solve it professionally. First, identify the problem.
What are the main roots of the problem. Then solve it in a technical
way by providing data to support your stand. No need to raise the issue
to the top management if you can handle it in the lower level.”
CONCLUSION
The findings presented in this report highlight the importance of
structured dispute resolution approaches, including negotiation, mediation,
and arbitration, as well as proactive communication and transparency in
construction projects. By applying best practices for conflict management,
construction professionals can minimize project delays, cost overruns, and
strained relationships, ultimately ensuring smoother operations and
successful project completion.
"The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low
price is forgotten." — Benjamin Franklin
