Contextual intelligence : a leadership model for engineering and construction management companies in South Africa

Abstract

This research was undertaken to test an existing model of contextual intelligence in the engineering and construction industry of South Africa. It similarly attempted to determine the contributing elements within the defined categories of the contextual intelligence construct that include skills and abilities, types of leadership, intelligence and types of thinking. A qualitative exploratory research method was used whereby sixteen semi-structured, in-depth interviews were held with leaders in the engineering and construction sector of South Africa. A number of existing categories and elements of the contextual intelligence model were found to be relevant, albeit incomplete. A revised Contextual Intelligence Model was developed utilising both highly relevant and relevant elements within the four categories. New elements contributing towards the revised model included having the ability to listen, being collaborative, displaying authentic, participative, organisational and transformational leadership abilities, utilising system thinking and conscious thinking structures, and lastly utilising both emotional and technical intelligence.