College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Construction Management Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Construction Management
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor/Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Liz Adams, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Construction Management Department
Abstract/Summary
Every day the construction industry is looking for ways to improve labor productivity, jobsite morale, and overall project efficiency. Contractors often focus on larger strategies such as scheduling, manpower planning, equipment selection, and material coordination to help projects stay on time and within budget. However, smaller jobsite conditions can also affect how workers perform throughout the day. Music is one of these conditions. On many construction sites, music is already used informally by laborers while they complete physical and repetitive tasks. Even though music is common in construction culture, its effect on productivity and morale is not often measured or formally studied. This research project studies how music affected laborers on a residential construction site in California. The project compared normal workdays without music to workdays where music was played during parts of the shift. Worker interviews and jobsite observations were used to understand whether music affected focus, energy levels, mood, and perceived productivity. The results showed that workers generally felt more focused, energized, and productive when music was playing. Possible benefits of using music on a construction site include improved morale, increased energy, better focus during repetitive tasks, and a more positive work environment.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cmsp/972
Poster Board