Update: If I keep the game open and keep the chief 'directing' their work, they make progress. But I just closed the game for about 30 minutes - reopened it and they were not working, no progress made and yet immediately all headed up towards the hut with the 'building a hut' description. WHY will they not work on that hut without the game being open?
I have this same problem. They will only work on the 2nd hut when I have my game open. If I close, they all go back to research or clearing the rubble. When I open back up, the rubble clearers head back to the hut.
Another "problem" I have level 3 alchemy without ever purchasing it. Not complaining just letting you know. I am on version .04.