Development Paths and Strategies for Whole Process Engineering Consulting in China: A Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis

As an innovative model in China's engineering construction sector, the application of whole process engineering consulting (WPEC) has made notable progress since the policy was introduced. However, the actual impact has varied, with certain policies exhibiting limitations in coordination and effectiveness, thus hindering their widespread implementation. Based on policy tool theory and configuration theory, this study adopts fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to examine the policy documents and contract amounts from 31 provincial-level units in China. The research systematically analyzes seven categories of promotional content outlined in the policy documents, with a particular focus on the application characteristics of coercive, hybrid, and voluntary policy tools, and their impact mechanisms and combinatory paths in the development of WPEC. The findings indicate that the high-level development of WPEC relies on the synergistic use of diverse policy tools. Three primary pathways are identified: the comprehensive path (coercive-hybrid-voluntary joint leadership), the hybrid path, and the coercive + voluntary path. In contrast, the key factors for the lack of high-level development are attributed to the absence of coercive and hybrid tools. This study provides theoretical insights and practical recommendations for enhancing policy effectiveness and fostering the high-quality development of the engineering consultancy industry.