Document is current

Article History

Received: 23 November 2025

Accepted: 4 March 2026

First Online: 9 March 2026

Declarations

:

: This study analyzed anonymized historical project data (contract values, invoices, and progress reports) from capital projects administered by the City of Sugar Land. No personal, sensitive, or identifying information was used. According to the policies of the City of Sugar Land, the analysis of existing, non-identifying project records for the purpose of improving internal administrative processes does not constitute human-subjects research. Therefore, this study did not require review or approval by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) or ethics committee. All procedures were performed in accordance with relevant institutional guidelines and regulations.

: AI assistance disclosure: Microsoft Copilot (Microsoft; July-September 2025, January 2026) was used solely for minor grammar and wording improvements after completing the analysis and drafting. The authors reviewed and edited all output and took full responsibility for the content.

: Not applicable. The manuscript does not contain any individual person’s data in any form (including individual details, images, or videos).

: The authors declare no competing interests.