Information Flow and Logistics Coordination Challenges in Saudi Arabian Construction Projects: A SCOR-Based Qualitative Investigation

Abstract

Background: This study investigates information-flow and logistics coordination challenges in Saudi Arabian construction projects within the context of ongoing national infrastructure developments, severe climatic conditions, and evolving labor regulations. Methods: Utilizing the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) framework, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 construction professionals spanning site-level engineers, logistics managers, project executives, and material suppliers over an extended 20-month monitoring period (March 2024–October 2025). Data were analyzed using thematic coding and mapped across the SCOR domains. Results: The findings reveal that logistics vulnerabilities stem predominantly from systemic information-sharing deficiencies, fragmented digital workflows, and weak stakeholder integration rather than standalone material constraints. Operational disruptions across Plan, Source, Make, Deliver, and Return are compounded by region-specific barriers including extreme thermal stress, migrant labor turnover, and high administrative fees for reverse logistics. Conclusions: To address these challenges, the study formulates a tiered, context-adjusted deployment framework for digital integration (BIM, IoT, and real-time tracking) tailored for both large infrastructure schemes and small-to-medium contractors. Staged implementation pathways and policy recommendations are provided to enhance supply chain resilience.