Showing papers by "Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke published in 2018"

Barriers to the adoption of value management in developing countries

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine the barriers to the adoption of value management (VM) in the construction industry of developing countries with a view to providing possible measures in avoiding these barriers and increasing the usage of the system within the construction industry.,The level of knowledge and adoption of VM practices, as well as the barriers to its adoption in the construction industry were assessed through a survey design. Construction professionals were sampled from the six geo-political zones in Nigeria through the use of a structured questionnaire. Factor analysis was conducted on data gathered on the barriers of VM.,The study revealed a moderate level of knowledge of VM among construction professionals. This implies that the problem of VM is not that of awareness, but readiness to adopt the system. The study also reveals that the barriers to the adoption of VM can be categorised under the general stakeholder’s barriers, training and education barriers, client barriers and government/top management barriers.,This study was conducted across the six geo-political zones of the country as against common practice of selecting a particular region or states to represent the entire country. The findings therefore show a true reflection of the barriers to VM adoption in the country and its recommendations can to a large extent promote the adoption of VM in the country and also other developing countries where construction projects are executed through similar method, style and approach.,This paper highlights the possible barriers to the adoption of VM in Nigeria construction industry and provides ways to avoiding these barriers in order to achieve better quality construction and value for money.

Construction 4.0: The Future of the Construction Industry in South Africa

Abstract: The construction industry is a renowned latecomer to the efficiency offered by the adoption of information technology. Whereas, the banking, manufacturing, retailing industries have keyed into the future by using digitization and information technology as a new approach for ensuring competitive gain and efficiency. The construction industry has yet to fully realize similar benefits because the adoption of ICT is still at the infancy stage with a major concentration on the use of software. Thus, this study evaluates the awareness and readiness of construction professionals towards embracing a full digitalization of the construction industry using construction 4.0. The term ‘construction 4.0’ was coined from the industry 4.0 concept which is regarded as the fourth industrial revolution that originated from Germany. A questionnaire was utilized for sourcing data distributed to practicing construction professionals through a convenience sampling method. Using SPSS v24, the hypotheses posed were tested with the Mann Whitney test. The result revealed that there are no differences between the consulting and contracting organizations on the readiness for adopting construction 4.0 concepts in the construction industry. Using factor analysis, the study discovers that adopting construction 4.0 will improve the performance of the construction industry regarding cost and time savings and also create sustainable buildings. In conclusion, the study determined that construction professionals have a low awareness towards construction 4.0 concepts. The study recommends an increase in awareness of construction 4.0 concepts through seminars, workshops and training, while construction professionals should take hold of the benefits of adopting construction 4.0 concepts. The study contributes to the roadmap for the implementation of construction industry 4.0 concepts in the South African construction industry. Keywords—Building information technology, Construction 4.0, Industry 4.0, Smart Site.

Drivers of value management in the Nigerian construction industry

Abstract: Purpose The paper determined the possible drivers of Value Management (VM) in the construction industry with a view of providing better quality construction and achieving value for money through its usage. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a survey design and construction professionals were conveniently sampled from various strata in the six geo-political zones in Nigeria through the use of a structured questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, mean score and one-samples t-test were used in analysing the data gathered. Findings Result revealed that while the level of knowledge of VM practice is high, the level of its adoption in the industry is on the average, and the involvement of construction professionals in VM workshops is low. The drivers that can aid its adoption are; government involvement through the introduction of VM policy, client’s commitment, and proper understanding of VM methodology. Practical implications This research was conducted across the six geo-political zones of the country as against common practice of selecting a particular region or states to represent the entire country. The findings therefore show a true reflection of the drivers of VM in the country and its recommendations can to a large extent increase the use of VM in the country and also other developing countries where construction projects are executed through similar method, style and approach. Originality/value The paper highlights the possible ways of increasing the use of VM in the construction industry with a view to achieving better quality construction and value for money.

Digitalisation in construction industry: construction professionals perspective

Abstract: This study presents the result of an assessment of digitalisation within the South African construction industry from the construction professionals' perspective. The study adopted a quantitative approach through a questionnaire survey carried out among construction professionals in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Appropriate descriptive statistical tools were used in analysing the data gathered. The study revealed that the major stages of construction where digitalisation is evident are the design phase, and the feasibility phase. The major construction processes where it is mostly visible are, construction cost control, cost planning, preliminary cost estimate and building system analysis. In addition, the most significant benefits to be derived from digitalisation in the industry includes time-saving in construction projects delivery, increase productivity, increase speed of work, increase document quality, speeding up of response time, and simpler working methods. This study contributes to the body of knowledge as it reveals the happenings surrounding digitalisation within the South African construction industry; an aspect that seems to be lacking research attention.

Quantity surveyors and skills required for procurement management

Abstract: In Nigeria, there has been clamour for recognition of quantity surveyors as professionals trained and qualified to act and function as procurement officers. Using basic skills required of procurement officers, this study examined the ability of quantity surveyors to function as procurement officers. Data were collected through questionnaires administered on quantity surveyors and procurement managers. The importance of identified skills was examined using Mean item score; Spearman's rank correlation was employed to test relationships while Mann–Whitney test was used to examine the difference in opinions of respondents. The most important skills required for procurement officers are technical and tactical skills. Although, the level of exhibition of these skills by quantity surveyors is a little above average, their performance is low in comparison with the level of importance of the skills. The identified skills are not significantly exhibited by quantity surveyors and their areas of strength are ...

SWOT analysis of indigenous and foreign contractors in a developing economy

Abstract: The call for more engagement of local contractors has been gaining support by construction stakeholders especially as a result of the recent economy recession in Nigeria. However, due to the increasing complexity of the construction industry and technological advancement, the influx and engagement of foreign contractors has been on the increase and their contribution is also germane to the economy development of the country. In view of this, the purpose of this paper is to examine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of indigenous and foreign contractors in the country with a view to understanding their differences in the quest of improving their service delivery.,A case study research was carried out through the use of interview and questionnaire administered on management staff and professionals in selected construction firms, respectively. In order to obtain a balance view of the subject, professionals from construction consultancy firms selected through Delphi method were also included in the study and sampled accordingly. Appropriate statistical tools were employed in analysing the data gathered and result was presented with the aid of a SWOT template.,Findings of the research show that foreign contractors have better strengths than their indigenous counterparts, and this has made them gain better expertise. Also, they enjoyed more opportunities than the threats they are faced with, but the reverse is the case for indigenous contractors.,There is a need for the two categories of contractors to identify their SWOT as indicated in this study and leverage their strengths, correct their weaknesses, capitalise on golden opportunities and avoid potentially devastating threats to enhance their effectiveness and success in the industry.

Bonding capability of Nigerian contracting firms

Abstract: The ability of construction contractors to engage in construction bond agreement with guarantors depends on capital, experience, capacity and continuity. Using these criteria, the purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the bonding capacity of Nigerian contractors.,Factors required for bonding were examined based on a set of questions addressed to managers of contracting firms and personnel involved in issuing bonds and guarantees in commercial banks and insurance companies. The scorecard approach was employed to determine the bonding capability of the contractors.,Contractors’ financial strength and past performance on previous projects are the two important factors considered by guarantors in granting bond to contractors. However, the condition surrounding the bond, the legal capacity of the guarantor to issue bond and the identity of the guarantor are mostly considered by contractors in approaching a potential guarantor. Using the scorecard approach, about one-third of contractors have the necessary requirements to engage in construction bond agreement with guarantors. This ability of contractors is affected by years of experience of the firm but not by their location nor years of experience of their manager.,It is necessary for contracting firms to increase their capital base through merging, borrowing, etc., and also engage experienced professionals and workers in the execution of construction projects, as this will eventually improve their bonding ability.,The study is limited to construction contractors registered with Ondo and Lagos State Governments and guarantors that are banks and insurance companies in Nigeria.,The paper specified various areas of concerns for Nigerian contracting firms in their bid to enhance their bonding ability. This will help them in overcoming various challenges and bottlenecks that may arise in securing bonds and guarantees from guarantors.

Evaluation of UFPA quality assessment criteria for monitoring and evaluation system in the Ghanaian construction industry

Abstract: The need to ensure that construction project monitoring and evaluation systems generate the required project information for effective project delivery and decision-making is imperative for project...

Developing cost model for preliminary estimate of road projects in Nigeria

Abstract: This paper was aimed at developing cost models to predict the preliminary estimate of road projects in Nigeria at the early state using parametric estimating techniques. To achieve this, there is need to identify both the quantitative and qualitative factors that affects the construction cost of road projects. The used procedure resulted in the formulation of linear and multiple regression models which provide a means of determining the cost of road functional activities as a function of projects characteristics. The models developed were for seven major construction activities based on 50 sets of data collected from road projects executed within between 2010 and 2015 in South Western Nigeria. The addition of all elements will give the probable cost of the road project. The coefficient of determination r2 for the developed models ranged from 0.85 to 0.99 indicating that the predicted values from a forecast models fit with the real-life data.

Challenges of front-end loading in construction project delivery

Abstract: Adopting a good pre-project planning or front-end loading method during the early stage of construction is important to the success of the project. However, most construction projects have failed as a result of poor project planning at their early stage. Based on this knowledge, this study assessed the challenges facing the use of front-end loading. The study adopted a quantitative survey approach and questionnaire was used to harness information on the objective of the study from construction professionals in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Data gathered were analysed using statistical tools such as percentage, mean score and standard deviation. Findings revealed that the major challenges affecting the use of front-end loading are inability to identify importance of the process, unreliable information during early project stages, insufficient time to thoroughly carry out the front-end loading process, indecisiveness or lack of knowledge by the client, and lack of structured project team during inception phases of the project. It is therefore recommended that the construction clients be made aware of the importance of front-end loading, while project team members should be introduced to the project from the early stage of the project.

Construction Professionals Perception of Solid Waste Management in the South African Construction Industry

Abstract: Proper management of the excess waste generated by the construction industry can lead to effective usage of same, and reduction in the pressure on the limited available earth resources consumed by the industry. This study presents the result of an assessment of the solid waste management (SWM) systems in the South African construction industry from the view point of construction professionals using a questionnaire survey. Data gathered were analyzed using appropriate descriptive statistics. Result reveals that construction professionals view SWM in the industry as the; re-use of waste, recycling of waste instead of dumping them at landfills, reduction of waste at source to lessens the cost of transportation and disposal, and the use of prefabricated components as a form of waste reduction. The major challenges of SWM in the industry include; inadequate formulation and application of policies, viewing implementation to be costly, and lack of mandatory waste management guidelines.

Impacts of Nanotechnology Adoption on Sustainable Construction

Abstract: The architectural, engineering and construction industry plays a significant role in the development of any country but, the industry have been experiencing a number of challenges relating to safety, environmental issues and general performance especially as a result of continuous adoption of traditional and conventional construction materials. In a view to minimize these challenges and achieve sustainable development, this study examines the effects of the adoption of nanotechnology principle to traditional construction materials. A review of existing literature materials on nanotechnology, sustainable construction and construction materials results in identification of 12 major impacts of nanotechnology on construction materials. In designing the questionnaire for the study, these factors were subsequently adopted and the research instruments were distributed to construction professionals, that is, quantity surveyors, engineers, construction managers, project managers and architects, in private and public establishments in Gauteng region of South Africa. The adoption of nanotechnology will not only help in reducing waste and provide new means of innovation but will also aid reforming of existing environmental remediation techniques. However, the adoption may also result in adverse effects on environment and human health if not properly managed by experts and concerned regulatory agencies. This indicates that as beneficial as the concept of nanotechnology may be to the performance of architectural, engineering and construction projects, care should be taken by contractors or developers, construction professionals and regulatory agencies, to understand and apply the principle in accordance to standards and regulations to avoid any potential negative results.

Barriers of Building Maintenance in Private Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria

Abstract: Maintenance of educational buildings is crucial if quality and sustainable education is to be delivered. However, while studies have emanated as regards maintenance issues of public educational buildings in Nigeria, there seem to be a deficiency in literature as regards maintenance happenings within the private tertiary institutions. This paper therefore presents the findings of the assessment of the barriers of building maintenance in private tertiary institutions in the country. The study adopted a quantitative approach and information were harnessed from maintenance officers and construction professionals within two private tertiary institutions. Data gathered were analyzed using percentage, mean score, standard deviation, and factor analysis. Findings revealed that the maintenance units of these institutions are characterized by inexperienced staffs, while the most used maintenance approach is the corrective maintenance. The factors affecting building maintenance are mostly; building design and usage factors, policy and management factors, and human resources and funding factors.

Utilization of Project Management Tools for Construction Project Success

Abstract: Due to increasing complexity of construction projects and the need to deliver projects to the satisfaction of clients with changing demand, various tools, techniques and methods have been introduced while some are gaining popularity in the construction industry. One of the existing tools are various project management techniques. The purpose of this study is to explore available project management tools and techniques that can be utilized to enhance construction project performance with a view to achieving value for money and ensuring satisfaction of construction clients. The study adopted quantitative research approach and a survey questionnaire was employed as an instrument of collecting data from relevant construction professionals with adequate knowledge and experience of the construction industry and project management tools. The study was limited to Gauteng and Mpumalanga Provinces in South Africa The survey revealed that application of value management or value engineering, reliable feasibility study, usage of computerized integrated software, application of life cycle costing and utilization of emerging technology and development are the five important project management tools for effective project delivery. It can be concluded that client satisfaction can be achieved by the application and full usage of aforementioned project management tools during the preconstruction, construction and post-construction stages of infrastructural projects.

Perception of Consultants and Contractors to Performance Factors of Construction Projects

Abstract: Due to various problems and challenges of construction industry especially in the production and delivery of sustainable infrastructure, performance of construction projects has become an issue of concern not only to contractors and professionals but other stakeholders including clients, project sponsors and end-users. This is due to complexity of construction process, innovation in the use of raw materials and machinery, new construction management techniques and more importantly, change in the demand of clients. Thus, this research evaluates performance indicators for construction projects from the perspective of consultants and contractors. This is to improve construction project performance with a view to enhancing the quest of construction industry of contributing positively to the economy and overall growth of the nation. Using quantitative approach, data were collected through close-ended questionnaires administered on a group of learned consultants and contractors with sufficient knowledge and experience of the construction industry. From the analysed data, there is a significant difference in the perceptions of consultants and contractors regarding factors affecting performance of construction projects. To consultants, general time factors and conformance to specification are the most important performance indicator for project success while from contractors’ view, cost factors including delay in payment from owner to contractor is a major critical success factor. The two groups unilaterally agreed that bringing about the best planning and scheduling technique before and during construction would assist in improving performance of construction projects in the country.

Evaluation of Procurement Systems of Public Sector Funded Projects

Abstract: Due to their complex nature, construction projects are continuously faced with several challenges relating to cost, time, quality, satisfaction, etc. These are as a result of several factors including procurement method adopted, tendering approach, contractual options, etc. This study investigated various procurement routes of projects funded by the public sector with a view to suggesting appropriate options for improved performance construction projects. Based on the data obtained from literature review of the existing body of knowledge, primary data were obtained through questionnaires survey of relevant construction professionals. From the data obtained, design, tender and bill as well as management procurement options are the most preferred systems for public funded projects. The procedures followed when selecting a procurement systems are; competitive, qualified and open procedures. In selecting the system to be adopted, clarity allocation of responsibility, degree of competition and risk management approach are the major aspect considered. In view of this, procurement system for public funded projects should be selected based on the scope of work and not necessarily the experience of the construction team. More so, sustainability, economic stability and construction culture of projects should be considered for optimum project performance.

Importance of Indoor Environmental Quality Criteria to Occupants of Low Income Housing

Abstract: Temperature, humidity, aeration and lighting among others have been the major traditional variables that are considered in understanding and improving comfort of building occupants. As important as these factors are, the need for an hollistic approach to basic necessities and requirements for comfort and satisfaction of people gave rise to the adoption of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) concept. This study therefore examines the importance attached to various IEQ criteria by occupants of selected low-income housing buildings with a view to understanding and improving needed and required facilities for optimum satisfaction. Using questionnaire as the research instrument, purposive sampling was adopted to collect information from occupants of low-income housing, with emphasis on their residence in the building for at least 2 years and above the age of 18. Analysis of the completed 54 questionnaires indicates that basic and traditional factors such as room temperature, humidity and ventilation are the most important IEQ criteria to sampled occupants. The results of this study will help concerned stakeholders of low-income housing including the government, developers, contractors, construction professionals and regulatory agencies to understand the level of importance attached to basic comfort and satisfaction factors by occupants, with a view to providing improve building for better and optimum satisfaction.

Improving Mentoring Relationships of Construction Management Professionals

Abstract: Mentoring is usually undermined and often mistaken as managing and assigning work to individuals. This study examined various characteristics expected of new (mentees) and experienced construction management professionals (mentors) with a view to equipping the mentees with adequate knowledge and reduce mentoring relationship breakdown. Basic attributes required for the two parties to mentoring as well as basic factors for failure of mentoring relationships were obtained from existing relevant literature materials. Based on this, data were collected using close-ended questionnaires administered on various professionals mentees and mentors that are currently working in the construction industry. For effective mentoring, experienced professionals must be respectful, knowledgeable, honest, energetic, encourage communication, share past experience and possess good positive attitude. For mentees, they must be enthusiastic, willing to learn, respectful, motivated, energetic and be a good listener. Mentoring relationships fail due to various personal, attitudinal and organizational reasons. To improve the relationship, individual opinions should be allowed and respected and conversation should focus on personal beliefs and values. More so, construction organizations, that is, contracting and consulting firms should support mentoring by fostering good relationship among employee by assigning experienced and young professionals to the same task, multi-tasking of the young ones, etc.