Lessons from Failures and Successes
FEATURED PAPER
By Funke Folasade Fakunle
Project Management Program
College of Professional Studies
Northeastern University
and
Adebayo Adeboye Fashina
Independent Researcher
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract
Effective communication is the backbone of successful construction projects, yet its absence often leads to costly delays, disputes, and failures. In the Canadian construction industry, where projects are influenced by regional complexities, multicultural workforces, and environmental challenges, the stakes are even higher. This article explores the pivotal role of communication in determining the outcomes of construction projects across Canada. By analyzing real-world examples of both failures and successes, it uncovers key lessons and actionable strategies. From misaligned expectations and cultural misunderstandings to exemplary collaboration and technological innovation, the findings highlight how communication can either derail or drive project success. The article further offers valuable insights for project managers, stakeholders, and teams striving to bridge communication gaps and foster better outcomes in the dynamic landscape of Canadian construction.
Keywords: Canadian Construction projects, Communication, Stakeholders, Project Management, Collaboration
- Introduction
The construction industry has long been recognized as a critical driver of economic growth and societal development worldwide (M. Van Nguyen, 2023). As nations strive to modernize infrastructure and accommodate urbanization, the construction sector plays a pivotal role in delivering projects that range from skyscrapers and residential complexes to highways and power plants (A. Fashina et al., 2018; A. A. Fashina et al., 2021; Fewings & Henjewele, 2019; Moshood et al., 2024). Globally, the construction industry accounts for approximately 13% of the world’s GDP (Alaloul et al., 2022; Robinson, 2015), with projections indicating steady growth due to increasing demand for housing and infrastructure (Alaloul et al., 2022; Myers, 2022). Despite its scale and importance, the sector is often plagued by inefficiencies, including delays (Fakunle & Fashina, 2020), cost overruns (Xie et al., 2022), and disputes (G. S. Martin & Thompson, 2011), many of which can be traced back to communication breakdowns (Saxena & McDonagh, 2022; Suleiman, 2022). These challenges highlight the universal significance of effective communication as a cornerstone of project management.
In Canada, the construction industry reflects similar dynamics but operates within unique contextual challenges (Haan et al., 2020; Siraj & Fayek, 2019). Representing about 7% of the nation’s GDP, construction is one of the largest sectors in the country, employing over 1.6 million people and contributing significantly to economic stability (Kumarage et al., 2024). The industry is diverse, encompassing residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects, each characterized by varying degrees of complexity (Kumarage et al., 2024). From urban mega-projects like transit expansions in major cities to remote infrastructure developments in the northern territories, Canadian construction projects must navigate diverse terrains (Povoroznyuk et al., 2023), extreme weather conditions (Povoroznyuk et al., 2023; Schuldt et al., 2021), and jurisdictional regulations (Lucy Saddleton, 2023). Additionally, the sector is heavily reliant on a multicultural workforce, with professionals and laborers coming from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds, which further underscores the need for clear and inclusive communication strategies (Ochieng & Price, 2010).
Communication in construction is not merely about the exchange of information; it is a dynamic process that integrates planning, execution, and stakeholder engagement (Emmitt & Gorse, 2006; Senaratne & Ruwanpura, 2016). In Canada, effective communication is particularly vital due to the decentralized nature of many projects and the extensive collaboration required among stakeholders, including owners, contractors, architects, engineers, and regulatory bodies (H. Martin et al., 2014; Senaratne & Ruwanpura, 2016; Zulch, 2014b). Poor communication, whether due to unclear documentation, misaligned expectations, or ineffective use of technology, can have cascading effects (Suleiman, 2022). These may include project delays, budget escalations, diminished quality, and strained relationships among stakeholders. Prior studies also identified communication failures as a leading cause of disputes and project inefficiencies, a trend observable in Canadian projects as well (Gamage, 2022; Lucy Saddleton, 2023).
More…
To read entire paper, click here
How to cite this paper: Fakunle, F. F., & Fashina, A. A., (2025). Exploring the role of communication in Canadian construction projects: Lessons from failures and successes; PM World Journal, Vol. XIV, Issue III, March Available online at http://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/pmwj150-Mar2025-Fakunle-Fashina-Exploring-Communication-in-Canadian-Construction-Projects.pdf
About the Authors
Funke Folasade Fakunle
Toronto, Canada
Funke Folasade Fakunle is a seasoned Project Management professional with over 13 years of experience managing complex construction projects and driving health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance across diverse industries, including logistics, oil and gas, and construction. Her career is defined by a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, oversee multimillion-dollar projects, and ensure alignment with regulatory standards while maintaining high safety and quality benchmarks.
Currently pursuing a Master’s in Project Management with a concentration in Construction at Northeastern University, Funke is further honing her expertise in project scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder collaboration. Her academic journey complements her extensive professional background, equipping her with cutting-edge strategies to manage today’s fast-paced construction challenges. She has published 16 articles in reputed journals like Heliyon, PM World Journal etc.
Funke has held pivotal roles, including as HSE and Sustainability Manager at BHN Logistics, where she supervised projects exceeding 1 billion Naira, achieving an 80% reduction in incident rates and improving operational efficiency. Her leadership in managing construction phases at Tolaram Group and Concord Enviro FZE highlights her skill in optimizing processes, resolving on-site challenges, and delivering projects on time and within budget.
A passionate advocate for safe and sustainable construction practices, Funke is dedicated to creating environments where safety and efficiency go hand-in-hand. She actively contributes to community betterment through volunteering with organizations such as the Daily Bread Food Bank and Evergreen Brick Works, reflecting her commitment to social impact and collaboration.
Funke’s core competencies include project planning, compliance with building codes, SAP and Microsoft Project proficiency, and risk mitigation. She is an emerging thought leader in construction project management, with a mission to inspire and implement best practices that drive innovation and sustainability in the field.
Connect with Funke Fakunle to explore her insights and expertise in advancing construction project management standards worldwide.
Funke can be contacted at funkefakunleca@gmail.com
Dr. Adebayo Adeboye Fashina
Toronto, Canada
Dr. Adebayo Adeboye Fashina is a seasoned educator, researcher, and consultant with fifteen years of substantial international experience in teaching, research, community service, developmental training, leadership, consulting, and capacity building across various educational levels. His career reflects a strong commitment to advancing education, fostering innovation, and addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research and impactful solutions.
Dr. Fashina holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics/Electronics, an MSc in Theoretical Physics, and a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Physics. He is also an alumnus of the Executive MBA program at the Quantic School of Business and Technology, USA.
As a renowned educator and researcher, Dr. Fashina is highly regarded by both students and colleagues for his teaching excellence, mentorship, and ability to address student concerns effectively. He has taught over 500 students from more than 20 countries, covering diverse subjects such as renewable energy, physics, and project/engineering management. His expertise extends to higher education systems, with in-depth knowledge of both American and British curricula.
Dr. Fashina is currently an Independent Researcher based in Toronto, Canada, where he continues to contribute to global knowledge through his research and consultancy efforts. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and project management skills, with a proven track record of leading and managing project teams to achieve successful outcomes. His interests span sustainable living, renewable energy policy and management, education organization management systems (EOMS), effective project management, and construction management.
He has held several key academic and leadership roles, including positions as a Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University, Uganda; Associate Professor of Applied Physics at William V. S. Tubman University, Liberia; and Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering Management at Gollis University, Hargeisa.
Dr. Fashina’s accomplishments include being a finalist in the “Emerging Leaders” award category at the 2016 Nigeria Energy Forum and being nominated for the 2016 Sustainable Energy Africa Awards. He has published over 45 articles in reputed journals, delivered training workshops, and presented at conferences worldwide.
Dedicated to fostering innovation, promoting community impact, and advancing education globally, Dr. Fashina continues to be a driving force in his field. Dr. Adebayo Fashina can be reached at adebayofashinaca@gmail.com.
