Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Assistant Professor in Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Development, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
2
Master of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Development, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran
3
Master of Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Development, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
Abstract
Feasibility studies are indispensable tools in the planning and executing construction projects, offering critical insights into technical, economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Globally, they have proven instrumental in ensuring project success by mitigating risks, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing decision-making processes. However, in Iran, the application of feasibility studies remains significantly underutilized, leading to widespread inefficiencies and challenges in major construction endeavors. This research investigates the importance of feasibility studies and examines the consequences of their neglect in Iran’s construction sector. Using a qualitative methodology, the study analyzes case studies of prominent projects, including Tehran’s Mosalla, Milad Tower, Shahr-e Aftab Exhibition Center, Tabiat Bridge, and Palladium Mall. These projects were chosen due to their scale and the complexities encountered during their planning and execution phases, revealing systemic issues resulting from the lack of feasibility assessments.
The findings demonstrate that ignoring feasibility studies often results in significant cost overruns, delays, and suboptimal project outcomes. For example, the Tehran Mosalla project faced extended timelines and escalated expenses due to insufficient initial assessments. These cases illustrate feasibility studies’ critical role in identifying potential challenges early and formulating effective strategies to address them.
The absence of feasibility studies has broader implications, in addition to direct financial and operational impacts. Delays and inefficiencies can erode public trust, diminish stakeholder confidence, and compromise the perceived value of infrastructure investments. Addressing these gaps requires a paradigm shift in how construction projects are planned and executed in Iran.
Technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, offer innovative tools to enhance the scope and precision of feasibility assessments. Leveraging AI-driven solutions enables the efficient analysis of vast datasets, improves risk management, and supports data-informed decision-making processes, thus streamlining project implementation. The study advocates for developing standardized guidelines to institutionalize feasibility studies within Iran’s construction practices. These guidelines should be tailored to address the unique needs and constraints of the local industry while aligning with global best practices to ensure consistency and reliability.
Workshops and training programs targeting engineers, architects, and project managers are essential for disseminating knowledge about the benefits and methodologies of feasibility studies. These initiatives can bridge knowledge gaps and promote interdisciplinary collaboration among stakeholders, fostering a more cohesive approach to project planning.
Partnerships with international institutions and industry leaders can facilitate the exchange of expertise and the introduction of proven strategies to the Iranian construction sector. Such collaborations can bridge existing gaps and establish a robust foundation for long-term improvements in project planning and execution. The research identifies feasibility studies’ economic and social benefits in reducing resource wastage, enhancing project sustainability, and achieving stakeholder satisfaction. It also underscores the importance of evaluating environmental impacts to align projects with global sustainability goals.
A lack of feasibility studies has consistently resulted in delays, cost escalations, and reduced functionality in Iranian construction projects. Addressing these shortcomings is a technical necessity and a socio-economic imperative to ensure the optimal use of public and private resources. One key recommendation is the integration of post-project evaluations to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Learning from completed projects provides invaluable insights that can inform the planning and execution of future initiatives.
The research also emphasizes the need to involve diverse stakeholders in the feasibility study process. Including community perspectives ensures that projects are socially inclusive and responsive to end-users’ needs, thereby maximizing their long-term value.
In-depth feasibility studies can help avoid conflicts and disputes by clearly defining project objectives, timelines, and budgets. This proactive approach minimizes uncertainties and creates a collaborative environment for all parties involved. International comparisons reveal that countries with established feasibility study protocols experience fewer project failures and achieve higher satisfaction levels among stakeholders. This insight reinforces the need for Iran to adopt similar practices to improve its infrastructure outcomes.
This study is a foundational effort to address the gaps in feasibility study practices in Iran. It provides actionable insights and recommendations that can drive systemic change and enhance the overall efficiency of the construction industry. The findings highlight the importance of ongoing research to explore innovative methodologies and tools for conducting feasibility studies. Such advancements can further refine the process and ensure its adaptability to changing industry demands.
Feasibility studies are not merely an additional step in project planning but a critical component that shapes the trajectory of construction endeavors. By institutionalizing this practice, Iran can unlock its construction industry’s full potential. In conclusion, this research underscores the transformative potential of feasibility studies in achieving sustainable, efficient, and socially responsive construction projects. It calls for a concerted effort among stakeholders to prioritize this essential practice, ensuring the successful realization of future infrastructure goals.
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