Success of a value engineering workshop (VEW) depends on numerous interrelated factors. Unfortunately, some of these factors are overlooked by VEW teams. This study applied factor analysis and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to analyze a questionnaire survey distributed to experienced VE practitioners. A VEW performance assessment model was designed based on the data collected. The proposed model was used to assess two VEWs of a construction project to demonstrate its usefulness in performance assessment. Assessment results were analyzed, and suggestions were provided to improve VEW performance. Performance can be enhanced by using the proposed model for self-diagnosis, process improvement, and team motivation. _ 2009 Elsevier Ltd and IPMA. All rights reserved.