Current Practices of Implementing Quality Control Plans in Managing Quality Assurance Programs in Highway Construction Projects
2026
Download PaperDOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/qbf9ko1j4
Authors: Phuong Nguyen, Daniel Tran
Citation:
Nguyen, P., and Tran, D. (2026). Current Practices of Implementing Quality Control Plans in Managing Quality Assurance Programs in Highway Construction Projects. Lean Construction Journal 2026 Special Issue CRC-CSCE pp 18-34 https://doi.org/10.60164/qbf9ko1j4 (Submitted 10Jan2026; Accepted 28Aug2026) www.leanconstructionjournal.org
Abstract:
Question: How are contractor quality control (QC) plans currently required, developed, reviewed, accepted, and overseen by U.S. state DOTs when administering quality assurance (QA) specifications in highway construction?
Purpose: The main objective of this paper is to investigate the current practices of implementing QA and QC activities in highway construction projects in terms of roles and responsibilities of agency and contractor personnel, requirements, review and acceptance processes, monitoring and inspection of contractor’s QC plan implementation and innovative efforts and technologies in QA and QC processes.
Research Method: The data collected from a national survey questionnaire of 50 state departments of transportation (DOTs) in the U.S. were used to perform content analysis and verify the use of QC plans for QA.
Findings: As a result, 80% of the agencies studied in this paper used operation-specific QC plans or a combination of operation-specific and generic QC plans for administering QA specifications. State DOTs also indicated the substantial benefits of utilizing advanced technologies, including unmanned aircraft systems, digital delivery models, field inspection tools, and e-Ticketing, for their QA and QC activities.
Limitations: Heterogeneity in DOT practices and terminology complicates direct comparison. The content analysis depended on the currency and completeness of publicly available manuals/templates.
Implications: This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by advancing the understanding on the current implementation of QC plans for administering QA specifications in highway construction projects. State DOTs are recommended to provide more guidance and templates for administering effective QC plans.
Value for authors: This paper provides nationwide visibility into how QC plans are used in highway construction and where enforcement and guidance gaps persist. A snapshot of QC plan practices with a Lean lens, pinpointing variability drivers (staffing, communication, subcontractor integration). A pathway to Lean-based QC, helping teams reduce waste, stabilize flow, and improve acceptance outcomes.
Keywords: Quality assurance, quality control plans, highway construction, transportation agency, contractor oversight, acceptance & verification
Paper type: Full Paper