Achieving Higher Energy Efficiency in High-Performance Buildings Using Integrated Practices: A Fuzzy Set- Qualitative Comparative Analysis Approach

High-Performance (HP) buildings are known for the holistic approach to design and construction project delivery, which encompasses various performance goals such as energy efficiency, environmental considerations, and occupants’ wellbeing. Compared to traditional buildings, HP projects require closer integration in the design and construction process. Researchers have used conventional qualitative analysis to identify successful strategies in facilitating integration, and quantitative methods of research to rank such techniques in order of effectiveness. However, there have not been significant attempts in evaluating the joint causal effect of such strategies and uncovering the causal mechanisms that underlie successful HP projects. Utilizing a new methodology called fuzzy set-Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fs-QCA), we analyzed the configurations of integration strategies used in over 30 HP projects. We found that the four elements of 1) setting ambitious environmental goals, 2) having committed and trustworthy team members, 3) using advanced information management technologies, and 4) early and frequent involvement of the key team members create a sufficient recipe for achieving high level of energy efficiency. Our analysis also shows that in presence of the above elements, contractual agreements do not emerge a necessary element, as contractual barriers can be overcome with leadership, information systems, and work processes that engender an environment of trust, openness, and ambitiousness.