What do you think?
Rate this book
Built to Fail: Why Construction Projects Take So Long, Cost Too Much, And How to Fix It
The construction industry is as big as it is important. Without construction, our society would cease to be. We would have no ports, roads, or bridges. No communications networks, power grids, or water systems. No hospitals. No schools. No homes. But we can barely get anything built. Capital projects are routinely finished late and over budget. Everyone acknowledges the problem, but no one seems to have the vision, or the will, to fix it. The problem is the separation of “planning” from “doing” that has taken place over the last century. A misplaced focus on administration has marginalized the tasks of designing and building, which are the essence of construction. New techniques and cutting-edge technology provide us with a different way of doing things. This is not mere theory; as author Todd Zabelle demonstrates, his company and other innovative firms are doing it now. But because too many construction professionals are set in their ways or are profiting from an ineffective system, nothing changes. By drawing on operations science and focusing on the critical aspects of construction and on how we design, make, and build instead of administration, we can fix what has dogged the industry for decades while expanding the bottom line of owners, investors, and construction managers. As Built to Fail argues, • we must recognize projects as an assemblage of multiple production systems and use operations science to understand and influence their behavior and thus improve project outcomes.
• the Taylorist preoccupation with squeezing as much work out of workers as possible is counterproductive. Having “materials waiting on workers” is avoided at all costs over “workers waiting on materials,” but we don’t need to choose between these two options. When it comes to supply, we can replace “just in case” (stacking up inventory) with “just in time” (delivering supplies when and where they are needed).
• the separation of design from construction and the fallacy that design is a phase that can be “finished” has contributed to the problem. Design is an ongoing process through the life of the project.
• deployment is changing from a centralized model to a decentralized instead of a project situated in one location, headed by one design firm and a single lead contractor and regulated by one permit, we must contend with multiple locations and jurisdictions, governed by numerous permits, various suppliers, and a multiplicity of design firms.
• the future is autonomous and digital. Yet few construction firms really know how to utilize this technology. Built to Fail explains how AI and machine learning along with IoT, can be fused with operations science and data science to jump ahead of the pack.
• the Taylorist preoccupation with squeezing as much work out of workers as possible is counterproductive. Having “materials waiting on workers” is avoided at all costs over “workers waiting on materials,” but we don’t need to choose between these two options. When it comes to supply, we can replace “just in case” (stacking up inventory) with “just in time” (delivering supplies when and where they are needed).
• the separation of design from construction and the fallacy that design is a phase that can be “finished” has contributed to the problem. Design is an ongoing process through the life of the project.
• deployment is changing from a centralized model to a decentralized instead of a project situated in one location, headed by one design firm and a single lead contractor and regulated by one permit, we must contend with multiple locations and jurisdictions, governed by numerous permits, various suppliers, and a multiplicity of design firms.
• the future is autonomous and digital. Yet few construction firms really know how to utilize this technology. Built to Fail explains how AI and machine learning along with IoT, can be fused with operations science and data science to jump ahead of the pack.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published January 16, 2024
5 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
October 2, 2024
Todd R. Zabelle's book Built to Fail hits hard and doesn’t hold back—because it doesn’t need to.
We've heard the stories: Berlin Brandenburg Airport, delayed for nearly a decade, opened billions of dollars over budget with 120,000+ defects discovered by inspectors.
Crossrail in the UK, delayed by nearly four-and-a-half years and exceeding its initial funding allotment by over $4 billion.
Or closer to home, the Purple Line metro extension in D.C., where the contractor walked off the job, leaving the project years behind schedule and billions in the red.
These aren’t just a few isolated incidents. They’re acute symptoms of a broken system.
Zabelle uses these examples to drive home a message that’s impossible to ignore: a high percentage of construction projects are swamped in bureaucratic red tape, weighed down by outdated project management methods, and hamstrung by fragmented teams that aren’t working together as well as they could be.
The systems that projects rely on don’t work—causing teams to be more reactive than proactive.
But Zabelle doesn’t stop at exposing the cracks in the foundation—he lays out a new way forward that drills down to the heart of the problem.
Throughout the book, he unpacks how deeply ingrained mental models are at the core of the industry’s stagnation.
By challenging these outdated beliefs through mindful, reflective questioning, and shifting our mental frameworks, he argues, we can unlock the true potential for real change in construction.
One of Zabelle's key recommendations is leveraging technology to bridge these gaps and transform how we manage construction.
As part of his concept of Era 3, he advocates for using real-time data, technologies such as augmented reality (AR), and autonomous systems to keep projects on track, reduce inefficiencies, and improve collaboration.
If you’re serious about cutting through the inefficiencies and rethinking how construction projects are managed, Built to Fail is a must-read.
This review only scratches the surface of the insights Zabelle offers on operational excellence, technology adoption, and transforming the industry for the better.
We've heard the stories: Berlin Brandenburg Airport, delayed for nearly a decade, opened billions of dollars over budget with 120,000+ defects discovered by inspectors.
Crossrail in the UK, delayed by nearly four-and-a-half years and exceeding its initial funding allotment by over $4 billion.
Or closer to home, the Purple Line metro extension in D.C., where the contractor walked off the job, leaving the project years behind schedule and billions in the red.
These aren’t just a few isolated incidents. They’re acute symptoms of a broken system.
Zabelle uses these examples to drive home a message that’s impossible to ignore: a high percentage of construction projects are swamped in bureaucratic red tape, weighed down by outdated project management methods, and hamstrung by fragmented teams that aren’t working together as well as they could be.
The systems that projects rely on don’t work—causing teams to be more reactive than proactive.
But Zabelle doesn’t stop at exposing the cracks in the foundation—he lays out a new way forward that drills down to the heart of the problem.
Throughout the book, he unpacks how deeply ingrained mental models are at the core of the industry’s stagnation.
By challenging these outdated beliefs through mindful, reflective questioning, and shifting our mental frameworks, he argues, we can unlock the true potential for real change in construction.
One of Zabelle's key recommendations is leveraging technology to bridge these gaps and transform how we manage construction.
As part of his concept of Era 3, he advocates for using real-time data, technologies such as augmented reality (AR), and autonomous systems to keep projects on track, reduce inefficiencies, and improve collaboration.
If you’re serious about cutting through the inefficiencies and rethinking how construction projects are managed, Built to Fail is a must-read.
This review only scratches the surface of the insights Zabelle offers on operational excellence, technology adoption, and transforming the industry for the better.
June 23, 2025
Quick review:
As a young graduate of Civil Engineering, i was thrilled to indulge into this X-ray dissection of the status quo in the construction industry. Construction projects often go out of hand in regards of the time and the budget they take, and not in trivial magnitudes. After having experienced many of these outcomes, and having passed by the Lean Construction Institute, Todd Zabelle attributes these shortcomings on narrow sight, defined by two eras: (a) Era 1 or "Taylorism": Maximum production approach. Each worker has to produce the most it can. (b) Era 2: too much focus on administrative aspects of construction management. In Era 1, optimization of isolated processes are encouraged, while disregarding the whole picture and the accumulation of work in process, that "clogs" the whole cycle of work. In Era 2, tools such as Earned Value Management and use of charts prove to be ultimately impractical towards achieving goals in the construction industry.
These two frameworks are throughly explained, as such the barriers that keep them alive and in their place. In opposition, Zabelle proposes an "Era 3" based on a focus on Project Production Management, which gives an outlook focused on predictable flows, process mapping and optimization, and avoidance of cluttering construction sites with too much anticipation. Aspects of supply management are also explained to great success.
I still have to give the book a second read to let its contents simmer more in my mind. Regardless, i can already say i truly enjoyed it, and i recommend it to anyone interested in construction project management. It is truly an illuminating read. One thing i didn't like is that many of the pictures seem blurry, at least on the Kindle version i acquired.
As a young graduate of Civil Engineering, i was thrilled to indulge into this X-ray dissection of the status quo in the construction industry. Construction projects often go out of hand in regards of the time and the budget they take, and not in trivial magnitudes. After having experienced many of these outcomes, and having passed by the Lean Construction Institute, Todd Zabelle attributes these shortcomings on narrow sight, defined by two eras: (a) Era 1 or "Taylorism": Maximum production approach. Each worker has to produce the most it can. (b) Era 2: too much focus on administrative aspects of construction management. In Era 1, optimization of isolated processes are encouraged, while disregarding the whole picture and the accumulation of work in process, that "clogs" the whole cycle of work. In Era 2, tools such as Earned Value Management and use of charts prove to be ultimately impractical towards achieving goals in the construction industry.
These two frameworks are throughly explained, as such the barriers that keep them alive and in their place. In opposition, Zabelle proposes an "Era 3" based on a focus on Project Production Management, which gives an outlook focused on predictable flows, process mapping and optimization, and avoidance of cluttering construction sites with too much anticipation. Aspects of supply management are also explained to great success.
I still have to give the book a second read to let its contents simmer more in my mind. Regardless, i can already say i truly enjoyed it, and i recommend it to anyone interested in construction project management. It is truly an illuminating read. One thing i didn't like is that many of the pictures seem blurry, at least on the Kindle version i acquired.
March 8, 2024
While reading Built to Fail, I discovered the complex, interesting and huge world behind the construction industry. The author, Todd R. Zabelle, is an expert in the field and I totally noticed his vast knowledge when reading. He starts the book by highlighting the importance of this industry and its key role in the functioning of our society. He goes on providing fascinating studies of the ongoing challenges upsetting the construction industry and suggests methods to solve them. He stands that the problem arises in the separation of planning and execution, making progress slower and causing projects to frequently fall behind schedule and over budget.
Having started my way into the construction field, the author made the topic clear to understand for me as a beginner. The language is specific and accurate but clear and simple. I highly recommend this book to anyone involved in construction or planning to have construction projects done.
Having started my way into the construction field, the author made the topic clear to understand for me as a beginner. The language is specific and accurate but clear and simple. I highly recommend this book to anyone involved in construction or planning to have construction projects done.
March 8, 2024
This incredible read provides a discerning but positive examination of the existing issues within the construction sector. It's outstanding how it thoroughly shows the reasons behind the frequent delays, cost escalations, and inefficiencies in construction projects, highlighting major factors such as inadequate project management, the incapacity to adopt new technologies, and the burden of regulatory procedures as the culprits. What stands out to me is the book's commitment to not only spotlighting these challenges but also offering viable solutions aimed at transforming the management and implementation of construction projects. These solutions advocate for the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, the enhancement of collaboration among all parties involved, and the implementation of more cohesive project delivery approaches. In my view, Zabelle's contribution is crucial for the advancement and refinement of the construction industry.
June 14, 2024
This book explains why “Era 1&2” thinking is antiquated and antithetical to efficient construction projects. One key example is the shift away from on-site knowledge, know-how, and management to office-dominant planning, scheduling, and administration. This critique makes sense. However, the rest of the book / the “solution” is an almost incomprehensibly complex operations and process management suggestion that only office admins or “lean-process” experts could ever hope to understand.
All Todd’s “New Era” systems and thinking would do is replace bloated out of touch GC admins with OS, PSO, CAPE, PPC, and SFC “experts”. I’m sure the intent is good, but as an operator in the industry I can’t see how this would be helpful in the slightest for improving operations and putting more of the focus back where it belongs - on the people who know how to do the actual work (eg. field and skilled trades).
All Todd’s “New Era” systems and thinking would do is replace bloated out of touch GC admins with OS, PSO, CAPE, PPC, and SFC “experts”. I’m sure the intent is good, but as an operator in the industry I can’t see how this would be helpful in the slightest for improving operations and putting more of the focus back where it belongs - on the people who know how to do the actual work (eg. field and skilled trades).
March 4, 2024
Built to Fail by Todd R. Zabelle is a much-needed and very timely book on what is wrong with the construction industry and how to fix it. Construction is all around us and is fundamental to the functioning of our society. Nevertheless, despite its importance, construction projects are chronically plagued by running over budget and time, by poor worker and resource management, and much more. In this book. Zabelle shows clearly that the separation of the administrative side of construction projects from the practical side has caused many if not most of these issues. He also points out that many of these problems would already be obsolete if companies made effective use of modern technologies and operations science. This is a highly necessary book for anyone involved in construction or planning to have construction projects done.
March 8, 2024
In Built to Fail, the author offers a critique of the construction industry, highlighting its pivotal role in society juxtaposed with its chronic inefficiencies. The book presents a compelling argument for a paradigm shift in construction methodology, emphasizing the urgent need to bridge the gap between planning and execution.
The author advocates for a holistic approach that integrates operations science into the construction process, enabling a deeper understanding of production systems and fostering improved project outcomes. He carefully identifies outdated practices and promotes new principles.
This book is very interesting. I found it to be a thought-provoking and informative read. I think that this is a timely and indispensable resource for anyone invested in the future of construction.
The author advocates for a holistic approach that integrates operations science into the construction process, enabling a deeper understanding of production systems and fostering improved project outcomes. He carefully identifies outdated practices and promotes new principles.
This book is very interesting. I found it to be a thought-provoking and informative read. I think that this is a timely and indispensable resource for anyone invested in the future of construction.
March 11, 2024
This book is amazing, I never thought that a book that offers an insightful critique of the construction industry would be so interesting. I'm starting a new job in this industry so I need to understand more and this book helped me a lot, it shows the importance of the separation between planning and execution as a primary cause of inefficiencies.
This read challenges the status quo, advocating for a shift towards integrating design and construction processes with the help of operations science. The author suggests that new methodologies and technologies, including AI and IoT, could revolutionize how projects are managed and executed. I think this book is great because it shows the importance of moving from a traditional, administration-heavy approach to a more streamlined, technology-driven model which for me is the key to having a successful business.
This read challenges the status quo, advocating for a shift towards integrating design and construction processes with the help of operations science. The author suggests that new methodologies and technologies, including AI and IoT, could revolutionize how projects are managed and executed. I think this book is great because it shows the importance of moving from a traditional, administration-heavy approach to a more streamlined, technology-driven model which for me is the key to having a successful business.
March 6, 2024
Todd R. Zabelle makes an analysis on the challenges on the construction industry and practical solutions to improve them. Zabelle shows the root causes of poor efficiency and delays in construction projects, highlighting issues such as poor planning, inadequate communication and lack of collaboration among stakeholders.
I believe this book is a wake-up call for professionals who tend to focus on traditional practices that can become obsolete. Here are guidelines, examples and mostly, solutions to achieve clear objectives in the industry. This is a must-read masterpiece for all those involved in construction project management and looking for improvement and positive changes not only in the industry but also in their professional path and growth.
I believe this book is a wake-up call for professionals who tend to focus on traditional practices that can become obsolete. Here are guidelines, examples and mostly, solutions to achieve clear objectives in the industry. This is a must-read masterpiece for all those involved in construction project management and looking for improvement and positive changes not only in the industry but also in their professional path and growth.
March 7, 2024
Built to Fail is a book that analyzes the dilemmas of construction, exploring important topics and bringing together administration with designing and building, an issue that's been there for ages and it's hard to change in the construction world.
Curiosity made me buy this book; as an enthusiastic fan of architecture, the plot of the book caught my attention because I didn´t know the process, I normally focus on the results rather than the process. Todd Zabelle gave me a deeper understanding of these critical topics, writing this book for entrepreneurs as well as beginners in the matter. It is easy to understand.
Recommended for people inside this intriguing business, who want to change how things are done.
Curiosity made me buy this book; as an enthusiastic fan of architecture, the plot of the book caught my attention because I didn´t know the process, I normally focus on the results rather than the process. Todd Zabelle gave me a deeper understanding of these critical topics, writing this book for entrepreneurs as well as beginners in the matter. It is easy to understand.
Recommended for people inside this intriguing business, who want to change how things are done.
March 6, 2024
Construction is one of the main drivers of the economy and can be considered an indicator of the economic situation of a country. As author Todd R. Zabelle currently mentions, the industry environment is currently experiencing difficulties in relation to payment chains. According to the author, the financial problem comes from slowed payments. This generates a complex situation to process for which it is necessary to have an order and financial projections that contribute to the sustainability of the companies.
I personally recommend "Built to Fail" to all those who are about to start construction, since the author has experience in the field and gives very good advice.
I personally recommend "Built to Fail" to all those who are about to start construction, since the author has experience in the field and gives very good advice.
Read
March 12, 2024Everyday buildings are being constructed. Sometimes I wonder why they take a long time for them to be built. Other times I notice a building is quickly built. For the former, Built to Fail written by Todd Zabelle shares a reality that I was not aware of. One reality is that the design may never be complete. There are times when changes will need to be made in the building and production process. Sometimes unforeseen circumstances happen which leads to more building and possibly more money. Overall, I enjoyed the book but it’s hard for me to accept that we should accept some advancements of technologies. This book will make you think and give you a new perspective.
March 9, 2024
The first time I found and read a book of this type. I think it surprised me in a good way with all the info and how the author describes the things that should be improved in the construction world to enhance productivity.
I think the point of discussion about traditional ways of doing things is that it leads to inefficiencies. It was a very informative read and I learned a lot from it as well.
One of the main concerns when going into a construction project are money and time and this book talks about that and gives expert solutions to avoid wasting money and the project to be delayed.
I think the point of discussion about traditional ways of doing things is that it leads to inefficiencies. It was a very informative read and I learned a lot from it as well.
One of the main concerns when going into a construction project are money and time and this book talks about that and gives expert solutions to avoid wasting money and the project to be delayed.
March 17, 2024
This read is a wake-up call for the construction industry. The autor offers a refreshing perspective and actionable solutions. Drawing on real-world examples and cutting-edge technology, he challenges the status quo and proposes a new way forward. From rethinking the separation of planning and execution to embracing AI and machine learning, I think this book is a blueprint for success in an industry ripe for innovation. If you want to be at the forefront of change and improve project outcomes, "Built to Fail" is a must-read.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews