A Conceptual Framework for Integrated Process Quality Management Systems (IPQMS) in Construction Projects

The construction industry faces persistent difficulty in coordinating quality, safety, health, and environmental (QSHE) requirements across fragmented project processes. This paper develops an Integrated Process Quality Management Systems (IPQMS) conceptual framework for construction projects by synthesising integrated management systems literature, QSHE integration studies, ISO harmonised management system logic, PDCA-based improvement principles, and process-based quality management theory. The framework organises seven critical processes into three tiers: foundation processes (integrated planning and design; process integration and coordination), operational processes (quality control and assurance; risk management and safety integration; environmental and sustainability management), and enhancement processes (performance monitoring and evaluation; continuous improvement and learning). A small-N quantitative synthesis from five eligible studies is used as supplementary evidence only, with effect-size estimates treated as indicative rather than confirmatory. The paper contributes an integrative process architecture, five theoretical propositions, and a validation roadmap for future empirical testing through case studies, surveys, and longitudinal implementation studies. The framework is particularly relevant to infrastructure project contexts in Indonesia and Malaysia, while remaining adaptable to broader construction settings.

Integrated process quality management systems, IPQMS, construction management, conceptual framework, quality management, QSHE integration, ISO High Level Structure, process-based management

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