Abstract
Increased demand for building infrastructure delivery advocates for innovative
construction methods. This paper examines the concept and application of Modern
Method of Construction used in the South-West UK, and the Innovative Building
Technologies in South Africa. It assesses the methods, current use, off-site
manufacturing; identifies and evaluates aspects of the construction process typically
used with the aim of identifying and analysing the barriers and merits for the adoption
in the Ghanaian construction industry. The research design adopts a qualitative method
and case study of two housing projects as part of a broader study to determine an
appropriate innovative construction method to meet project targets of time, cost, quality
and improved delivery for the Ghanaian industry. The study finds; convenience; speed;
reduced cost and improved delivery as the key success factors though there is less than
5% use of the innovative methods in the entire sector for mainly repetitive housing,
schools and hospital projects. Negative end-users perception of building quality and low
satisfaction; less government intervention through education; promotion; availability of
off-site contractors and materials were also the barriers identified. Management contract
is adopted in most cases hence the risk transferred to the management contractors.
Lessons learnt are outlined and recommendation made for government action plans to
mitigate the barriers during its implementation in the Ghanaian construction industry.