Purpose This study aims to investigate the interrelationships between COVID-19 pandemic impact and architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) organizations. To achieve that aim, the objectives are to: identify the critical pandemic impact (CPI) of COVID-19 on AEC organizations; compare the CPI between the different organization characteristics; and analyze the interrelationships between the CPI. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review of 519 articles and in-depth interviews with 40 AEC practitioners were carried out, yielding 12 COVID-19 impacts. Then, data on the 12 impact’s criticality were collected through a survey among AEC practitioners. In total, 127 valid responses were received and analyzed using mean ranking analysis, analysis of variance and Spearman’s correlation. The findings were also compared with pandemic impacts from prior works. Findings Five CPI exist among the 12 impacts, namely, “reduced construction productivity,” “reduced foreign investment in the construction industry,” “reduced demand on construction-related works,” “disruption in the supply chain” and “reduced number of public projects.” “Reduced foreign investment in the construction industry” and “reduced demand on construction-related works” significantly impact small-medium enterprises than large enterprises. Also, “disruption in the supply chain” and “reduced construction productivity” are recurring impacts in all countries compared. Finally, moderate relationships exist between “reduced foreign investment in the construction industry” and “reduced demand on construction-related works” and “disruption in the supply chain” and “reduced construction productivity.” Originality/value The findings can be used to prioritize available resources in developing short-term responses for COVID-19. Also, action plans can be developed to mitigate the CPI from recurring.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the overall economy and the construction industry badly. The Movement Control Order (MCO) caused the suspension of the construction sector, including infrastructure projects. Contractors are suffering losses and facing many problems caused by the pandemic, even with the on-going government financial aids. By identifying the right approaches to improve existing government policies and strategies, contractors could better manage the problems. Thus, this research aims to explore mechanisms for reducing COVID-19’s negative impact on the infrastructure construction industry. To achieve that objective, this study involves collecting and analyzing interview data with industry practitioners. The significant findings from the analysis are: (1) COVID-19 affects the infrastructure construction industry by causing financial and productivity problems; and (2) mechanisms to address those problems include legal, financial, productivity, and environmental support. This paper’s finding is valuable for the government in determining the right actions in assisting contractors in this critical period.

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