Abstract
Construction industry globally is bemoaned by project delays despitethe importance of the Industry in most of the countries. In context of this sentiment this study examined the causes of construction project delays, the effects of construction projects delays, and strategies to improve construction projects delivery.A quantitative research methodologywas used.Questionnairewas developed from literature review. A total of76 conveniently sampled respondents were sent the questionnaires. Forty two useable questionnaires were returned representing response rate of 55.26%. The respondents were concentrated in Gauteng province in South Africa. The questionnaire consisted of twenty two factors defining causes of construction project delay, six factors related to effects of delays and ten proposed strategies to improve project delivery. The statistical parameters used were mean score and percentage and were computed using excel statistical method. The findings indicated that the most common causes of delay reported were improper planning, poor site managem ent and supervision,poor communication, skills shortages and corruption. The most common effects of delay were cost overrun,timeoverrun,disputes, litigation and total abandonment. Lastly the five highest strategies toimprove project delivery established were complete and proper design at the right time, site management and supervision,proper material procurement, clear informationand proper communication channels and frequent co-ordination between the parties.The study suggested that the constructioncompanies should concentrate on the strategies inorder to stifle project delay.A modelto reduce or prevent delaysfrom occurringonconstruction projects is advocated.