Abstract
Construction projects are complex, risky and time-consuming undertakings that are
usually commissioned by governments and delivered by national and international
participants with a variety of cultural differences, backgrounds, political systems, and
languages. The South African construction industry operates in a uniquely projectspecific
and complex environment, combining different investors, clients, contractual
arrangements and consulting professions. It impacts directly on communities and the
South African public at large, and its improved efficiency and effectiveness will
enhance quality, productivity, health, safety, environmental outcomes and value for
money. Therefore, this paper will investigate measure that can be used to improve the
performance of construction projects in the South Africa construction industry. Data
for this paper were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. For the
primary data; a structured questionnaire was distributed to construction professionals
both from the contracting companies, consultant offices & public owners sectors.
Findings from the questionnaire surveys revealed that the measures to be taken for the
improvement of the performance of construction projects in Gauteng, South Africa,
include: proper project planning and scheduling, use of effective project management
techniques, clear information and communication channels, adherence to construction
drawings and specifications, proper material procurement, adequate planning,
effective strategic planning, proper project implementation and management, frequent
coordination between the construction team, use of appropriate construction methods,
site management and supervision amongst others. The study contributes to the body
of knowledge on the subject of measures to improve the performance of construction
projects in the South Africa construction industry.