A model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian Construction Industry
- Authors: Adjei, Kofi Owusu
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/444993 , uj:38914
- Description: Abstract: One of the key roles of construction project managers is to execute construction projects within the targeted project cost. In Africa, most construction projects suffer huge cost overruns. Project cost control practice is required by every construction firm to keep the project cost in line with the budgeted cost. A comprehension of the different parts of cost control philosophies is fundamental to empower project cost managers to adequately set up robust cost controls and to improve future strategies for active construction project cost delivery. Although there are efforts by project cost managers to control cost, there is a lack of understanding of the factors that determine cost control practice in Ghana, as a developing nation. The factors enhancing cost control practice and a formal model are needed for consideration by project cost managers to guide their operations. This study develops a model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian construction industry... , Ph.D. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adjei, Kofi Owusu
- Date: 2020
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/444993 , uj:38914
- Description: Abstract: One of the key roles of construction project managers is to execute construction projects within the targeted project cost. In Africa, most construction projects suffer huge cost overruns. Project cost control practice is required by every construction firm to keep the project cost in line with the budgeted cost. A comprehension of the different parts of cost control philosophies is fundamental to empower project cost managers to adequately set up robust cost controls and to improve future strategies for active construction project cost delivery. Although there are efforts by project cost managers to control cost, there is a lack of understanding of the factors that determine cost control practice in Ghana, as a developing nation. The factors enhancing cost control practice and a formal model are needed for consideration by project cost managers to guide their operations. This study develops a model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian construction industry... , Ph.D. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
A model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian construction industry
- Authors: Adjei, Kofi Owusu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry - Ghana , Construction industry - Cost control
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/437411 , uj:37979
- Description: Abstract: One of the key roles of construction project managers is to execute construction projects within the targeted project cost. In Africa, most construction projects suffer huge cost overruns. Project cost control practice is required by every construction firm to keep the project cost in line with the budgeted cost. A comprehension of the different parts of cost control philosophies is fundamental to empower project cost managers to adequately set up robust cost controls and to improve future strategies for active construction project cost delivery. Although there are efforts by project cost managers to control cost, there is a lack of understanding of the factors that determine cost control practice in Ghana, as a developing nation. The factors enhancing cost control practice and a formal model are needed for consideration by project cost managers to guide their operations. This study develops a model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian construction industry. Mixed-method methodology was utilised for this study. The qualitative survey used the Delphi survey approach to investigate the primary factors and measurement-related factors. The study identifies project cost control as eight-factor constructs: project cost estimation, project cost budgeting, project cost reporting, project cost monitoring, project cost analysis, decision-making, change management and project cost communication. These had strong inter-quartile deviations. .. , D.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adjei, Kofi Owusu
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry - Ghana , Construction industry - Cost control
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/437411 , uj:37979
- Description: Abstract: One of the key roles of construction project managers is to execute construction projects within the targeted project cost. In Africa, most construction projects suffer huge cost overruns. Project cost control practice is required by every construction firm to keep the project cost in line with the budgeted cost. A comprehension of the different parts of cost control philosophies is fundamental to empower project cost managers to adequately set up robust cost controls and to improve future strategies for active construction project cost delivery. Although there are efforts by project cost managers to control cost, there is a lack of understanding of the factors that determine cost control practice in Ghana, as a developing nation. The factors enhancing cost control practice and a formal model are needed for consideration by project cost managers to guide their operations. This study develops a model for predicting cost control practice in the Ghanaian construction industry. Mixed-method methodology was utilised for this study. The qualitative survey used the Delphi survey approach to investigate the primary factors and measurement-related factors. The study identifies project cost control as eight-factor constructs: project cost estimation, project cost budgeting, project cost reporting, project cost monitoring, project cost analysis, decision-making, change management and project cost communication. These had strong inter-quartile deviations. .. , D.Phil. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
An assessment of risk associated with digitalisation in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Meno, Tsholofelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa - Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/445041 , uj:38920
- Description: Abstract: In recent years, globalisation, international trade and industry competition have become a part of the construction industry’s operative. In this regard, time and space are progressively diminishing as obstacles to deliver customised and best services to clients at constrained budgets and time frames. All these deliverables call for an innovative approach in conducting business with effective communication being a key to its success. It is for this reason that digital methods and processes are slowly becoming a requirement for any construction company in South Africa to keep abreast with competitors in the same market. Digitalisation is the term used to describe the optimisation of information that has been digitised to improve business operations. Companies around the globe are considering this digital transition in order improve bottom line figures. However, the introduction of digital methods that threaten processes that have been working for years is perceived as a risk. Previous research studies outline a wide range of benefits related to the implementation of digital technology in the construction industry; however, studies do not highlight the inherent critical risk factors. This reveals an information deficit, which this study sought to fill. This study therefore assessed risks that are related to digitalisation uptake in the South African construction industry. In pursuit of this, a quantitative approach was adopted with questionnaires used as the instrument for data collection from construction professionals in the Gauteng Province... , M.Tech. (Quantity Surveying)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Meno, Tsholofelo
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa - Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/445041 , uj:38920
- Description: Abstract: In recent years, globalisation, international trade and industry competition have become a part of the construction industry’s operative. In this regard, time and space are progressively diminishing as obstacles to deliver customised and best services to clients at constrained budgets and time frames. All these deliverables call for an innovative approach in conducting business with effective communication being a key to its success. It is for this reason that digital methods and processes are slowly becoming a requirement for any construction company in South Africa to keep abreast with competitors in the same market. Digitalisation is the term used to describe the optimisation of information that has been digitised to improve business operations. Companies around the globe are considering this digital transition in order improve bottom line figures. However, the introduction of digital methods that threaten processes that have been working for years is perceived as a risk. Previous research studies outline a wide range of benefits related to the implementation of digital technology in the construction industry; however, studies do not highlight the inherent critical risk factors. This reveals an information deficit, which this study sought to fill. This study therefore assessed risks that are related to digitalisation uptake in the South African construction industry. In pursuit of this, a quantitative approach was adopted with questionnaires used as the instrument for data collection from construction professionals in the Gauteng Province... , M.Tech. (Quantity Surveying)
- Full Text:
Assessment of lean concepts in the South African construction industry
- Authors: Ramaru, Pretty
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business - South Africa , Entrepreneurship - South Africa , Construction industry - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/453006 , uj:39975
- Description: Abstract: The South African construction sector has been confronted with the issues of not meeting project schedules, budget and specifications set by the client and architect or engineer. Several studies have demonstrated that the applied models of project management and tools it employs fail to deliver projects on time, at agreed budget and at desired quality. Lean construction promotes the construction development and accomplishing the project objectives by reducing waste. However, in spite of the potential benefits of lean construction and assuming its awareness among stakeholders, little has been reported regarding its execution for performance enhancement and the successful fulfilment of clients’ needs in the South African construction industry. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess lean concepts and to recommend the most effective options for lean concepts’ adoption in South Africa. A quantitative approach has been used for this study. The data used in this study was derived from primary sources using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed both physically and using Google Forms. Out of the 200 questionnaires distributed, 152 were returned. However, only 151 questionnaires were usable, representing a 75.5% response rate. The data collected were analysed using the descriptive statistics (mean item score) and multivariate statistics (exploratory factor analysis) and Cronbach's alpha reliability test. Findings from the data revealed that there is a high level of awareness of lean principles and there is an average level of awareness of lean techniques within the South African construction industry. The study also revealed that there is an average level of application of lean principles while there is a low level of usage of lean techniques within the South African construction industry... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ramaru, Pretty
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Small business - South Africa , Entrepreneurship - South Africa , Construction industry - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/453006 , uj:39975
- Description: Abstract: The South African construction sector has been confronted with the issues of not meeting project schedules, budget and specifications set by the client and architect or engineer. Several studies have demonstrated that the applied models of project management and tools it employs fail to deliver projects on time, at agreed budget and at desired quality. Lean construction promotes the construction development and accomplishing the project objectives by reducing waste. However, in spite of the potential benefits of lean construction and assuming its awareness among stakeholders, little has been reported regarding its execution for performance enhancement and the successful fulfilment of clients’ needs in the South African construction industry. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess lean concepts and to recommend the most effective options for lean concepts’ adoption in South Africa. A quantitative approach has been used for this study. The data used in this study was derived from primary sources using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed both physically and using Google Forms. Out of the 200 questionnaires distributed, 152 were returned. However, only 151 questionnaires were usable, representing a 75.5% response rate. The data collected were analysed using the descriptive statistics (mean item score) and multivariate statistics (exploratory factor analysis) and Cronbach's alpha reliability test. Findings from the data revealed that there is a high level of awareness of lean principles and there is an average level of awareness of lean techniques within the South African construction industry. The study also revealed that there is an average level of application of lean principles while there is a low level of usage of lean techniques within the South African construction industry... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
Sustainable development as a competitive advantage tool : a case study of South African small and medium food processing enterprises
- Authors: Mbuyane, Slindile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food industry and trade - Quality control , Food processing by-products industry , Food industry and trade - Management , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/425199 , uj:36393
- Description: Abstract: The rapidly increasing advancements in manufacturing sector has created pressure for manufacturers to rethink and redesign their existing systems in order to cope with the challenges that emerged with globalization and environmental concerns. This trend brought about the introduction of the sustainable manufacturing concept; this concept of sustainable manufacturing is generally referred to as “green business” which emerged towards the end of the 20th century. An increase in customer awareness and pressures from stakeholders shifted manufacturers' focus, as a result, many innovative strategies were brought into the realm of manufacturing systems, such as lean, green, agile, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Sustainable manufacturing has been acclaimed in recent years for its significant benefits directed at triple bottom line factors (social, environmental, and financial) also known as the sustainable development pillars. As one of the top 20 Greenhouse Gases (GHG) polluters and responsible for almost half of the total Carbon emission for Africa, South Africa’s food manufacturing businesses and Government are pushed to strategize on more sustainable manufacturing practices and principles. Even though many studies have been conducted on sustainable manufacturing, the critical assessment conducted in this study posits that there is still a gap to be covered as far as ensuring that all SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector are fully aware, understanding and adhering to the country’s commitment and objectives of sustainable development. However, the fundamental stages of adoption, implementation, and integration of sustainable development concept in food manufacturing SMEs have proven to be rather facing numerous challenges, hence very little execution has been observed. This becomes more important when considering the constant increase in the number of newly registered SME’s in the country. Considering this gap, this study aimed at first theoretically assessing sustainability in food manufacturing SMEs. The results of the critical appraisal of the current literature clearly illustrated that there is a gap in the current body of knowledge particularly with SMEs. The paper sought more understanding through deepening in literature review of the key parameters, and later formulated a survey, which was distributed within the Gauteng region. Feedback from 81 copies was received and analysed for descriptive data, factor exploratory analysis and reliability test. The results showed that the concept of sustainable development is not yet fully understood especially in the South African narrative and objectives. This is due to the lack of visibility, information and support from Government, where SMEs felt less involved thus disengaged. This paper therefore recommended that sustainable development be introduced to main stream education from primary school phase, involve SMEs even at... , M.Tech.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mbuyane, Slindile
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Food industry and trade - Quality control , Food processing by-products industry , Food industry and trade - Management , Sustainable development
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/425199 , uj:36393
- Description: Abstract: The rapidly increasing advancements in manufacturing sector has created pressure for manufacturers to rethink and redesign their existing systems in order to cope with the challenges that emerged with globalization and environmental concerns. This trend brought about the introduction of the sustainable manufacturing concept; this concept of sustainable manufacturing is generally referred to as “green business” which emerged towards the end of the 20th century. An increase in customer awareness and pressures from stakeholders shifted manufacturers' focus, as a result, many innovative strategies were brought into the realm of manufacturing systems, such as lean, green, agile, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Sustainable manufacturing has been acclaimed in recent years for its significant benefits directed at triple bottom line factors (social, environmental, and financial) also known as the sustainable development pillars. As one of the top 20 Greenhouse Gases (GHG) polluters and responsible for almost half of the total Carbon emission for Africa, South Africa’s food manufacturing businesses and Government are pushed to strategize on more sustainable manufacturing practices and principles. Even though many studies have been conducted on sustainable manufacturing, the critical assessment conducted in this study posits that there is still a gap to be covered as far as ensuring that all SMEs operating in the manufacturing sector are fully aware, understanding and adhering to the country’s commitment and objectives of sustainable development. However, the fundamental stages of adoption, implementation, and integration of sustainable development concept in food manufacturing SMEs have proven to be rather facing numerous challenges, hence very little execution has been observed. This becomes more important when considering the constant increase in the number of newly registered SME’s in the country. Considering this gap, this study aimed at first theoretically assessing sustainability in food manufacturing SMEs. The results of the critical appraisal of the current literature clearly illustrated that there is a gap in the current body of knowledge particularly with SMEs. The paper sought more understanding through deepening in literature review of the key parameters, and later formulated a survey, which was distributed within the Gauteng region. Feedback from 81 copies was received and analysed for descriptive data, factor exploratory analysis and reliability test. The results showed that the concept of sustainable development is not yet fully understood especially in the South African narrative and objectives. This is due to the lack of visibility, information and support from Government, where SMEs felt less involved thus disengaged. This paper therefore recommended that sustainable development be introduced to main stream education from primary school phase, involve SMEs even at... , M.Tech.
- Full Text:
A comparative analysis between outsourced and insourced public infrastructure projects’ performance in a Provincial Department of Public Works
- Authors: Mcwari, Zwelinzima Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/417726 , uj:35389
- Description: Abstract: Procurement and subsequent delivery of infrastructure projects by a Provincial Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (PDPWI) can be achieved through two ways, namely: outsourcing or insourcing (in-house). Outsourcing is a widely used method for transferring non-core activities of the firm to external service providers. It is used across different industries in both public and private sectors globally. Conversely, insourcing is regarded as the opposite of outsourcing. The delivery of PDPWI projects is always late, incurring extra costs and often of average quality. The purpose of this paper is to investigate reasons behind the decision to either outsource or insource public infrastructure projects and to subsequently propose a comparative analysis for outsourcing versus insourcing in Department of Public Works and Infrastructure at a Provincial level. A Grounded Theory research design will be deployed for data collection. Accordingly, relevant project-centric documents spanning a duration of five (5) years was reviewed whilst semi-structured interviews were conducted concurrently, with a purposively selected sample of interviewees. The data emerging from the deployment of both data collection techniques enabled an understanding of the attributes of projects which were either outsourced or insourced and the performance of such projects thereof. The data was analysed according to the procedures associated with the grounded theory method research design. As such, open coding, axial coding and pattern matching were carried out at several intervals to develop categories and themes. Besides highlighting the usefulness of the grounded theory methodology for such study, the study’s findings established the absence of a properly structured approach to decision making within the PDPWI as it pertained to the choice of either outsourcing or insourcing construction projects. Yet, it was furthermore observed that the nature of outsourced projects differed from insourced projects. On performance of these projects, the study found both the procurement pathways yielded the same poor results, and the study indicated that outsourced projects performed slightly better in comparison to insourced projects in terms of cost certainty. These findings culminated in the evolution of a comparative analysis which is expected to guide effective decision making within PDPWI on which projects to be outsourced or insourced. The proposed comparative analysis of performance of in-house versus outsourced can be used as a guideline in future for procurement of public infrastructure projects by decision makers in public sector. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mcwari, Zwelinzima Peter
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) , Project management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/417726 , uj:35389
- Description: Abstract: Procurement and subsequent delivery of infrastructure projects by a Provincial Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (PDPWI) can be achieved through two ways, namely: outsourcing or insourcing (in-house). Outsourcing is a widely used method for transferring non-core activities of the firm to external service providers. It is used across different industries in both public and private sectors globally. Conversely, insourcing is regarded as the opposite of outsourcing. The delivery of PDPWI projects is always late, incurring extra costs and often of average quality. The purpose of this paper is to investigate reasons behind the decision to either outsource or insource public infrastructure projects and to subsequently propose a comparative analysis for outsourcing versus insourcing in Department of Public Works and Infrastructure at a Provincial level. A Grounded Theory research design will be deployed for data collection. Accordingly, relevant project-centric documents spanning a duration of five (5) years was reviewed whilst semi-structured interviews were conducted concurrently, with a purposively selected sample of interviewees. The data emerging from the deployment of both data collection techniques enabled an understanding of the attributes of projects which were either outsourced or insourced and the performance of such projects thereof. The data was analysed according to the procedures associated with the grounded theory method research design. As such, open coding, axial coding and pattern matching were carried out at several intervals to develop categories and themes. Besides highlighting the usefulness of the grounded theory methodology for such study, the study’s findings established the absence of a properly structured approach to decision making within the PDPWI as it pertained to the choice of either outsourcing or insourcing construction projects. Yet, it was furthermore observed that the nature of outsourced projects differed from insourced projects. On performance of these projects, the study found both the procurement pathways yielded the same poor results, and the study indicated that outsourced projects performed slightly better in comparison to insourced projects in terms of cost certainty. These findings culminated in the evolution of a comparative analysis which is expected to guide effective decision making within PDPWI on which projects to be outsourced or insourced. The proposed comparative analysis of performance of in-house versus outsourced can be used as a guideline in future for procurement of public infrastructure projects by decision makers in public sector. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
An assessment of conflict in construction project lifecycle in South Africa
- Authors: Bodika, Matthieu Ilunga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction projects - South Africa - Management , Conflict management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443787 , uj:38762
- Description: Abstract: Conflict is a phenomenon which is constant in our daily lives; hence it is unavoidable in the workplace in which we find ourselves. With this information, this study was conducted to assess and evaluate conflict in the lifecycle of projects in the construction industry in South Africa. This research examined at the causes of conflict in the lifecycle of construction projects, the stages during a project lifecycle at which it occurs, project participants affected by conflict, conflict effect on project stakeholders, conflict resolution approaches used in construction projects and lastly, The benefits of conflict resolution to the project lifecycle in the construction industry in South Africa... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Bodika, Matthieu Ilunga
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction projects - South Africa - Management , Conflict management - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443787 , uj:38762
- Description: Abstract: Conflict is a phenomenon which is constant in our daily lives; hence it is unavoidable in the workplace in which we find ourselves. With this information, this study was conducted to assess and evaluate conflict in the lifecycle of projects in the construction industry in South Africa. This research examined at the causes of conflict in the lifecycle of construction projects, the stages during a project lifecycle at which it occurs, project participants affected by conflict, conflict effect on project stakeholders, conflict resolution approaches used in construction projects and lastly, The benefits of conflict resolution to the project lifecycle in the construction industry in South Africa... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
An assessment of social sustainability considerations during public sector infrastructure procurement in Free State
- Diba, Nthabiseng Molebogeng Joycynthia
- Authors: Diba, Nthabiseng Molebogeng Joycynthia
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398833 , uj:33219
- Description: Abstract : Infrastructure is vital to the economic and social development of a country. Infrastructure projects attributes to construction of schools, houses, employment, religious structures and financial holdings of the country. South Africa is championing the sustainable development agenda across all sectoral facets. Accordingly, its construction industry is gradually transforming towards wholesome adoption of sustainable project delivery (SPD) practices and this is includng social considerations such as education, health and safety and community engagement. Yet, industry stakeholders remain fixated on economic and environmental sustainability dimensions. Tendering and bid evaluation exercises are deemed critical to attaining SPD goals. However, infrastructure procurement seems to have continued in a manner that depicts non-consideration of social sustainability (SS) aspects. Such observation makes this study reported herein, imperative, as it explored the perceptions of bid evaluation staff concerning the consideration of SS aspects during bid document preparation, evaluation and adjudication respectively. This study report looked at what aspects regarding social sustainability are considered during the procurement process of infrastructure projects delivery in the Free State. The study first delved into social sustainability and development focusing on the Free State. A sequential mixed method was adopted for this study. An embedded multi-case study research strategy, where bid evaluation teams of distinct public sector organisations within the Free State province was identified and the bid committees interviewed. Furthermore, bid documents such as tender notices were reviewed. Questionnaires were sent out after the interviews, to collate the information gathered and rank them with their level of significance. The emerging data was analysed through the use of qualitative and quantitative content analysis and the use of descriptive statistics. The findings of this study highlighted perceptions of bid evaluation teams on their inclination towards the consideration of SS aspects during the procurement of infrastructure projects by their organizations. It also revealed if and how any of these aspects were prioritised, in comparison to aspects of other sustainability dimensions. , M.Tech. (Quantity Surveying)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Diba, Nthabiseng Molebogeng Joycynthia
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/398833 , uj:33219
- Description: Abstract : Infrastructure is vital to the economic and social development of a country. Infrastructure projects attributes to construction of schools, houses, employment, religious structures and financial holdings of the country. South Africa is championing the sustainable development agenda across all sectoral facets. Accordingly, its construction industry is gradually transforming towards wholesome adoption of sustainable project delivery (SPD) practices and this is includng social considerations such as education, health and safety and community engagement. Yet, industry stakeholders remain fixated on economic and environmental sustainability dimensions. Tendering and bid evaluation exercises are deemed critical to attaining SPD goals. However, infrastructure procurement seems to have continued in a manner that depicts non-consideration of social sustainability (SS) aspects. Such observation makes this study reported herein, imperative, as it explored the perceptions of bid evaluation staff concerning the consideration of SS aspects during bid document preparation, evaluation and adjudication respectively. This study report looked at what aspects regarding social sustainability are considered during the procurement process of infrastructure projects delivery in the Free State. The study first delved into social sustainability and development focusing on the Free State. A sequential mixed method was adopted for this study. An embedded multi-case study research strategy, where bid evaluation teams of distinct public sector organisations within the Free State province was identified and the bid committees interviewed. Furthermore, bid documents such as tender notices were reviewed. Questionnaires were sent out after the interviews, to collate the information gathered and rank them with their level of significance. The emerging data was analysed through the use of qualitative and quantitative content analysis and the use of descriptive statistics. The findings of this study highlighted perceptions of bid evaluation teams on their inclination towards the consideration of SS aspects during the procurement of infrastructure projects by their organizations. It also revealed if and how any of these aspects were prioritised, in comparison to aspects of other sustainability dimensions. , M.Tech. (Quantity Surveying)
- Full Text:
An assessment of the growth of small, medium and micro enterprises in the Zambian construction industry - a case of Lusaka
- Authors: Mabasa, Khanyisa Desiree
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business - Zambia - Lusaka - Growth , Construction industry - Zambia - Lusaka
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452526 , uj:39915
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry is one of the sectors that contribute significantly to the growth and development of the Zambian economy. Construction Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a significant role in reducing unemployment and poverty through the creation of jobs for semi-skilled and unskilled individuals. However, they are restricted through the challenges they encounter daily in their operation. Hence, this study assesses the growth of SMMEs in the Zambian construction industry. Detailed literature was reviewed, and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The respondents were owner of construction SMMEs in Zambia. These owners had various qualifications within the built environment. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out, and 105 were returned, representing a response rate of 70%. Descriptive and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) were used to analyse the data. From the findings it was revealed that the Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission, the Government policy of pronouncement on contracts to subcontract MSMEs, the Zambia Development Agency and Road Construction as well as management supervision training programmes are the support policies and programmes that a majority of the construction firm owners in Zambia are aware of and they regarded them to be effective, having implemented them in their various entities. Furthermore, the study reveals the barriers to the growth of the SMMEs in the Zambian construction industry such as poor financial control, poor cash flow management, corruption, credit problems/insolvency, lack of management skills and poor record keeping. In addition, the findings show the enhancement of employment creation, the improved development of unskilled and semi-skilled employees and the contribution to the expansion of the economy as the benefits of the growth of SMMEs in Zambia. Moreover, the findings reveal good financial management, adequate financial record management training, financial risk identification, good cash flow management, efficient strategic planning, the high intellectual capacity of employees, efficient human resource management practices and good management skills as the drivers of the growth of SMMEs. From the findings of the study it can be concluded that the growth of the SMMEs is always restricted and limited, regardless of the good economic condition of the country and the construction industry. Therefore, it is recommended that large construction firms should mentor at least three SMMEs, which will make large companies to use SMMEs as sub-contractor so to train/ mentor them. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mabasa, Khanyisa Desiree
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Small business - Zambia - Lusaka - Growth , Construction industry - Zambia - Lusaka
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/452526 , uj:39915
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry is one of the sectors that contribute significantly to the growth and development of the Zambian economy. Construction Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) play a significant role in reducing unemployment and poverty through the creation of jobs for semi-skilled and unskilled individuals. However, they are restricted through the challenges they encounter daily in their operation. Hence, this study assesses the growth of SMMEs in the Zambian construction industry. Detailed literature was reviewed, and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The respondents were owner of construction SMMEs in Zambia. These owners had various qualifications within the built environment. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out, and 105 were returned, representing a response rate of 70%. Descriptive and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) were used to analyse the data. From the findings it was revealed that the Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission, the Government policy of pronouncement on contracts to subcontract MSMEs, the Zambia Development Agency and Road Construction as well as management supervision training programmes are the support policies and programmes that a majority of the construction firm owners in Zambia are aware of and they regarded them to be effective, having implemented them in their various entities. Furthermore, the study reveals the barriers to the growth of the SMMEs in the Zambian construction industry such as poor financial control, poor cash flow management, corruption, credit problems/insolvency, lack of management skills and poor record keeping. In addition, the findings show the enhancement of employment creation, the improved development of unskilled and semi-skilled employees and the contribution to the expansion of the economy as the benefits of the growth of SMMEs in Zambia. Moreover, the findings reveal good financial management, adequate financial record management training, financial risk identification, good cash flow management, efficient strategic planning, the high intellectual capacity of employees, efficient human resource management practices and good management skills as the drivers of the growth of SMMEs. From the findings of the study it can be concluded that the growth of the SMMEs is always restricted and limited, regardless of the good economic condition of the country and the construction industry. Therefore, it is recommended that large construction firms should mentor at least three SMMEs, which will make large companies to use SMMEs as sub-contractor so to train/ mentor them. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
An assessment of the relevance of feasibility studies in public projects in South Africa
- Authors: Willemse, Hanno
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/296356 , uj:32287
- Description: Abstract: Purpose: The current status of governmental projects is down in the gutters. South African public projects congruously encounter overruns due to miss-management and poor planning. This paper aims to address these factors, as well as strive to improve the focus on society when conducting feasibility studies on the subject of public projects. The study aimed to identify the drivers for feasibility studies; how current feasibility practices hold up against theoretical best practice; the benefits gained from conducting a feasibility study prior to project commencement; factors hindering feasibility studies; and determine to what extent feasibility studies can address and improve on public project performance. Approach: This research study set out to assess the relevance of feasibility studies within the South African public project sector. Through an extensive literature review, it was found that feasibility studies could address overruns continuously encountered within the industry. Through applied research, questionnaires, interviews and effective factor analysis methodologies the study concretes the need for feasibilities, alongside strong governance. Findings: It was found that economical factors still lead the decision-making scheme towards granting projects the green light for construction. Although public projects are of concern, economical factors are still valued higher. Further findings illustrate that complete and thorough studies are not conducted, indicating a productive beneficial loss of potential gain. Further findings illustrate that governance, rather than feasibilities, could have a positive effect against overruns. Conclusion: South Africa’s construction industry suffers a great deal from cost and schedule overruns. Feasibility studies may hold the answer in mitigating these overruns. Comparing the theoretical best practices for feasibility studies and the practical execution, it is possible to determine where the industry is lacking. The findings suggest that tailored procedures should be developed specifically for SA public projects. And that governance over these procedures should be enforced if overruns are to be mitigated. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Willemse, Hanno
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/296356 , uj:32287
- Description: Abstract: Purpose: The current status of governmental projects is down in the gutters. South African public projects congruously encounter overruns due to miss-management and poor planning. This paper aims to address these factors, as well as strive to improve the focus on society when conducting feasibility studies on the subject of public projects. The study aimed to identify the drivers for feasibility studies; how current feasibility practices hold up against theoretical best practice; the benefits gained from conducting a feasibility study prior to project commencement; factors hindering feasibility studies; and determine to what extent feasibility studies can address and improve on public project performance. Approach: This research study set out to assess the relevance of feasibility studies within the South African public project sector. Through an extensive literature review, it was found that feasibility studies could address overruns continuously encountered within the industry. Through applied research, questionnaires, interviews and effective factor analysis methodologies the study concretes the need for feasibilities, alongside strong governance. Findings: It was found that economical factors still lead the decision-making scheme towards granting projects the green light for construction. Although public projects are of concern, economical factors are still valued higher. Further findings illustrate that complete and thorough studies are not conducted, indicating a productive beneficial loss of potential gain. Further findings illustrate that governance, rather than feasibilities, could have a positive effect against overruns. Conclusion: South Africa’s construction industry suffers a great deal from cost and schedule overruns. Feasibility studies may hold the answer in mitigating these overruns. Comparing the theoretical best practices for feasibility studies and the practical execution, it is possible to determine where the industry is lacking. The findings suggest that tailored procedures should be developed specifically for SA public projects. And that governance over these procedures should be enforced if overruns are to be mitigated. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
An evaluation of information and communication technology application in South African construction industry
- Authors: Odubiyi, Tawakalitu Bisola
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa , Construction industry - Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413220 , uj:34804
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry is evolving like other allied industries. New innovations are borne out of the quest to achieve more value for money, while also retaining a competitive edge in the international sphere. A comprehensive study on the application of information and communication technology (ICT) for construction work in South Africa, particularly the stages of construction work, is lacking. This study seeks to evalaute information and communication technology tools used for construction activities in the South Africa construction industry. The research evaluates the level of awareness of construction professionals as to the use of new ICT tools in the fourth industrial revolution era. It also discusses the ICT tools used at the planning stage of construction, the design and the construction stage. It employed the Professional Client/Consultants Service Agreement Committee (PROCSA) template but limited it to stage 0 to 5. It also discusses the challenges, drivers and benefits of using ICT tools for construction activities in South Africa. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed online via Questionpro platform to South African construction professionals in Gauteng Province only. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were distributed. One hundred and twenty (120) of the responses were valid and used for the analysis. This accounted for eighty per cent (80%) of the total survey. In ensuring the reliability of the research questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha coefficient reliability was conducted on the scaled research questions. Compare mean was used to address the level of awareness of ICT tools and ICT tools used at the planning, design, and construction stages. Factor analysis was used to analyze the factors which serve as challenges to, drivers of, and benefits of the effective use of ICT tools. The study revealed that professionals have different awareness levels of ICT tools. They are more aware of ICT tools that are the core of their professional duties. At the planning stage of construction work in South Africa, all professionals use design/estimation and simulation-based tool most. In the design stage, the most frequently used tools are the computer-based tools and the design/estimation-based tools which are used by engineers, architects, and construction project managers. At the construction stage, computer-based tools and administrative tools are the highest-ranked tools. The exploratory factor analysis revealed that the challenges to the use of ICT in the South African construction industry are classified into people, cost, standardization, and management-related problems. The measures to ensure the effective use of ICT tools for construction processes in South Africa are also grouped into user-related factors, ICT knowledge and end-uses. The benefits from the effective use of ICT tools for construction... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Odubiyi, Tawakalitu Bisola
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa , Construction industry - Information technology
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413220 , uj:34804
- Description: Abstract: The construction industry is evolving like other allied industries. New innovations are borne out of the quest to achieve more value for money, while also retaining a competitive edge in the international sphere. A comprehensive study on the application of information and communication technology (ICT) for construction work in South Africa, particularly the stages of construction work, is lacking. This study seeks to evalaute information and communication technology tools used for construction activities in the South Africa construction industry. The research evaluates the level of awareness of construction professionals as to the use of new ICT tools in the fourth industrial revolution era. It also discusses the ICT tools used at the planning stage of construction, the design and the construction stage. It employed the Professional Client/Consultants Service Agreement Committee (PROCSA) template but limited it to stage 0 to 5. It also discusses the challenges, drivers and benefits of using ICT tools for construction activities in South Africa. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed online via Questionpro platform to South African construction professionals in Gauteng Province only. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were distributed. One hundred and twenty (120) of the responses were valid and used for the analysis. This accounted for eighty per cent (80%) of the total survey. In ensuring the reliability of the research questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha coefficient reliability was conducted on the scaled research questions. Compare mean was used to address the level of awareness of ICT tools and ICT tools used at the planning, design, and construction stages. Factor analysis was used to analyze the factors which serve as challenges to, drivers of, and benefits of the effective use of ICT tools. The study revealed that professionals have different awareness levels of ICT tools. They are more aware of ICT tools that are the core of their professional duties. At the planning stage of construction work in South Africa, all professionals use design/estimation and simulation-based tool most. In the design stage, the most frequently used tools are the computer-based tools and the design/estimation-based tools which are used by engineers, architects, and construction project managers. At the construction stage, computer-based tools and administrative tools are the highest-ranked tools. The exploratory factor analysis revealed that the challenges to the use of ICT in the South African construction industry are classified into people, cost, standardization, and management-related problems. The measures to ensure the effective use of ICT tools for construction processes in South Africa are also grouped into user-related factors, ICT knowledge and end-uses. The benefits from the effective use of ICT tools for construction... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
An evaluation of sustainable construction practices in the Zambian construction industry
- Authors: Musenga, Chanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - Zambia , Climatic changes - Zambia , Sustainable development - Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/445138 , uj:38932
- Description: Abstract: The rapid deterioration of the ecosystem as evidenced in the various occurrences around the world has captured the attention of leaders globally. This has prompted the various sectors around the world to initiate actions to mitigate the gradual extinction of the planet through the implementation of sustainable development principles and Zambia should not be left out. Thus, in order to keep pace with this paradigm shift, this study sought to evaluate the sustainable construction practices (SCPs) in the Zambian construction industry (ZCI). This study adopted a quantitative approach. A questionnaire survey was conducted on construction professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, civil engineers, construction managers, construction project managers, project managers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, land surveyors and town planners). Out of the 150 questionnaires sent out, 122 were received back representing an 81% response rate. The data received from the questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Musenga, Chanda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - Zambia , Climatic changes - Zambia , Sustainable development - Zambia
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/445138 , uj:38932
- Description: Abstract: The rapid deterioration of the ecosystem as evidenced in the various occurrences around the world has captured the attention of leaders globally. This has prompted the various sectors around the world to initiate actions to mitigate the gradual extinction of the planet through the implementation of sustainable development principles and Zambia should not be left out. Thus, in order to keep pace with this paradigm shift, this study sought to evaluate the sustainable construction practices (SCPs) in the Zambian construction industry (ZCI). This study adopted a quantitative approach. A questionnaire survey was conducted on construction professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, civil engineers, construction managers, construction project managers, project managers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, land surveyors and town planners). Out of the 150 questionnaires sent out, 122 were received back representing an 81% response rate. The data received from the questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
Application of digital technology in TQM business processes
- Authors: Khwela, Nozipho C.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Total quality management , Organizational effectiveness , Artificial intelligence - Industrial applications , Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/444923 , uj:38905
- Description: Abstract: TQM (Total Quality Management) has become the world`s dominant quality solution in improving quality systems and continuous improvement. Industries are using the ISO 9001 standard for compliance, while other organizations practice TQM to further develop and sustain the organizational strategic goals and income growth. The revelation on the application of a quality management system and ISO 9001 has by far been the quality requirement from customers and regulators as evidence of commitment and ability of every organization. Various industries have implemented TQM to advance their quality systems in order to control and better the organizational culture. Competition within industries indicated the importance of customer satisfaction for corporate profitability and survival, where quality has become the key factor for the survival and competitiveness of a business [1]. Currently all industries have become competitive. According to Hendricks and Singhal [2], firms that have effectively implemented Total Quality Management outperform firms within the same level caliber that have not implemented total quality management in terms of cost, income, profits, total assets, number of resources and capital outlay. Aleksandrova, Vasiliev, Letuchev [3], emphasized on the integration of quality management methods with modern information technology that it may ensure competitiveness in existing organizations. Total Quality Management has only been applied in manufacturing industries but has over the years evolved into diverse business sectors to gain reputation as the main factor to achieve competitive advantage... , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Khwela, Nozipho C.
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Total quality management , Organizational effectiveness , Artificial intelligence - Industrial applications , Technological innovations
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/444923 , uj:38905
- Description: Abstract: TQM (Total Quality Management) has become the world`s dominant quality solution in improving quality systems and continuous improvement. Industries are using the ISO 9001 standard for compliance, while other organizations practice TQM to further develop and sustain the organizational strategic goals and income growth. The revelation on the application of a quality management system and ISO 9001 has by far been the quality requirement from customers and regulators as evidence of commitment and ability of every organization. Various industries have implemented TQM to advance their quality systems in order to control and better the organizational culture. Competition within industries indicated the importance of customer satisfaction for corporate profitability and survival, where quality has become the key factor for the survival and competitiveness of a business [1]. Currently all industries have become competitive. According to Hendricks and Singhal [2], firms that have effectively implemented Total Quality Management outperform firms within the same level caliber that have not implemented total quality management in terms of cost, income, profits, total assets, number of resources and capital outlay. Aleksandrova, Vasiliev, Letuchev [3], emphasized on the integration of quality management methods with modern information technology that it may ensure competitiveness in existing organizations. Total Quality Management has only been applied in manufacturing industries but has over the years evolved into diverse business sectors to gain reputation as the main factor to achieve competitive advantage... , M.Ing. (Engineering Management)
- Full Text:
Assessment of the performance of roads infrastructure in the Gauteng province of South Africa - stakeholders’ perspective
- Authors: Mushatu, Shonisani Winnie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Roads - Inspection - South Africa - Gauteng , Roads - South Africa - Gauteng - Design and construction , Roads - South Africa - Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413195 , uj:34801
- Description: Abstract: This thesis is based on the assessment of project performance in roads infrastructure projects in the Gauteng, South Africa. Many research studies identified performance as poor performance; however, there is good performance to be found as well. Furthermore, the study focused to the completed road projects performance, the recent and the future road projects. The data used were derived from primary and secondary resources. Structured questionnaire were distributed to construction professionals such as Project Managers , QS, Resident Engineers among others from various construction companies within Gauteng Province. Out of 100 distributed questionnaires, 76 were returned as completed by respondents and the 24 distributed questionnaires were not returned back to the researcher. Overall, 76 % of the questionnaires were valid and usable. The secondary source data was derived from a review of the literature.Research findings were revealed as per related categories which are staed in chapter 8. Among other categories are client,contractor,consultant,design and human related categories. The findings revealed that on that related categories, factors such as payment delays, late reviewing of design tender document, financial difficulties, cash flow, community unrest,poor communication, worker absenteeism, cost overrun and time overrun were having the high impact in the performance of road infrastructure projects. Mitigations to the revealed findings highlighted. Skills transfer; education and training, and effective communication were among other mitigation stated. The study continued to indicate the measures used to assess the performance of road infrastructure projects, the quality factor ,the cost factor and time factor were one of the top measures used to assess the performance. The treatise recommends that project stakeholders should work as a team to run the project in professional manner.It is recommended that poor performance should always and effective communication is the success of any project. Originality The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the assessment of the performance of road projects in Gauteng Province, South Africa. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Mushatu, Shonisani Winnie
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Roads - Inspection - South Africa - Gauteng , Roads - South Africa - Gauteng - Design and construction , Roads - South Africa - Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413195 , uj:34801
- Description: Abstract: This thesis is based on the assessment of project performance in roads infrastructure projects in the Gauteng, South Africa. Many research studies identified performance as poor performance; however, there is good performance to be found as well. Furthermore, the study focused to the completed road projects performance, the recent and the future road projects. The data used were derived from primary and secondary resources. Structured questionnaire were distributed to construction professionals such as Project Managers , QS, Resident Engineers among others from various construction companies within Gauteng Province. Out of 100 distributed questionnaires, 76 were returned as completed by respondents and the 24 distributed questionnaires were not returned back to the researcher. Overall, 76 % of the questionnaires were valid and usable. The secondary source data was derived from a review of the literature.Research findings were revealed as per related categories which are staed in chapter 8. Among other categories are client,contractor,consultant,design and human related categories. The findings revealed that on that related categories, factors such as payment delays, late reviewing of design tender document, financial difficulties, cash flow, community unrest,poor communication, worker absenteeism, cost overrun and time overrun were having the high impact in the performance of road infrastructure projects. Mitigations to the revealed findings highlighted. Skills transfer; education and training, and effective communication were among other mitigation stated. The study continued to indicate the measures used to assess the performance of road infrastructure projects, the quality factor ,the cost factor and time factor were one of the top measures used to assess the performance. The treatise recommends that project stakeholders should work as a team to run the project in professional manner.It is recommended that poor performance should always and effective communication is the success of any project. Originality The study contributes to the body of knowledge on the assessment of the performance of road projects in Gauteng Province, South Africa. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
Effects of globalization on logistic management of multinational companies in Nigeria
- Authors: Adeitan, Ayodeji Dennis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics , Business logistics - Nigeria - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413034 , uj:34781
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: Globalization process has been recognized as an important underlying force impacting global logistic service providers because it is an essential function in the transportation and logistics system, the actions of which appear in different parts of the logistics management processes. This study explored the effect of globalization on logistics management in Nigerian multinational companies. Data used in this study were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. Secondary data were obtained through literature reviews of related studies while primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire which was distributed to logistics management professionals in the Nigerian logistics industry. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were sent to the respondents; one hundred and six (106) questionnaires were responded to and returned for analysis. This represented a response rate of 71%. Data obtained from the research study were analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Findings from the descriptive analysis of the level of awareness of logistics activities in Nigerian industries revealed transport logistics as most aware form of logistics activities among the respondents while awareness level of fourth party logistics (4pl) and green logistics activities is low in the Nigerian industries. The study also revealed that respondents are more aware of technologies, cultural, political, global economic growth, and reductions of trade barriers as top factors that influence globalization in Nigeria. In addition, the decrease in transport process costs, encouraging customer service quality, and the increase in the wide network of resources are the top benefits of globalization in logistics management in Nigeria. Furthermore, access to new/effective information, efficiency in logistic chains transportation modes, and improvement in technology are the most important impacts of good logistics management in Nigeria. Lastly, cost effectiveness, advancements in technology, and quality operations are the most important factors to be considered for logistics management in Nigeria to take advantage of globalization. The research recommended that for globalization to benefit logistics management in Nigeria, efficient legislation and policies should be enacted to improve transport efficiency in order to reach new customers in new markets. Also, an increase in the economies of scale to reduce transport costs, would lead to a better sustainable growth of the Nigerian logistics industry.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Adeitan, Ayodeji Dennis
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Business logistics , Business logistics - Nigeria - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/413034 , uj:34781
- Description: M.Tech. (Operations Management) , Abstract: Globalization process has been recognized as an important underlying force impacting global logistic service providers because it is an essential function in the transportation and logistics system, the actions of which appear in different parts of the logistics management processes. This study explored the effect of globalization on logistics management in Nigerian multinational companies. Data used in this study were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. Secondary data were obtained through literature reviews of related studies while primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire which was distributed to logistics management professionals in the Nigerian logistics industry. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were sent to the respondents; one hundred and six (106) questionnaires were responded to and returned for analysis. This represented a response rate of 71%. Data obtained from the research study were analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Findings from the descriptive analysis of the level of awareness of logistics activities in Nigerian industries revealed transport logistics as most aware form of logistics activities among the respondents while awareness level of fourth party logistics (4pl) and green logistics activities is low in the Nigerian industries. The study also revealed that respondents are more aware of technologies, cultural, political, global economic growth, and reductions of trade barriers as top factors that influence globalization in Nigeria. In addition, the decrease in transport process costs, encouraging customer service quality, and the increase in the wide network of resources are the top benefits of globalization in logistics management in Nigeria. Furthermore, access to new/effective information, efficiency in logistic chains transportation modes, and improvement in technology are the most important impacts of good logistics management in Nigeria. Lastly, cost effectiveness, advancements in technology, and quality operations are the most important factors to be considered for logistics management in Nigeria to take advantage of globalization. The research recommended that for globalization to benefit logistics management in Nigeria, efficient legislation and policies should be enacted to improve transport efficiency in order to reach new customers in new markets. Also, an increase in the economies of scale to reduce transport costs, would lead to a better sustainable growth of the Nigerian logistics industry.
- Full Text:
Evaluation of factors influencing environmental sustainability performance of construction projects in South Africa
- Authors: De Koker, Chad Rhuaidri
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Sustainable construction - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443827 , uj:38767
- Description: Abstract: The built environment contributes a substantial share of environmental degradation being experienced in contemporary society. As such, monitoring the environmental sustainability performance of these temporary multi-organizations during project delivery has become imperative. The incidence of poor environmental sustainability performance appears to have worsened as a result of project teams that lack knowledge on environmental sustainability, lack of technology implementation on sustainable workflow, pollution during construction activity, minimum waste regulators, poor energy usage control and inexperienced appointed professionals. This study was done to evaluate critical factors that influence environmental sustainability performance of construction projects in the Free State, South Africa. Several factors were deduced from a review of relevant literature. The identified factors were subsequently categorized into six main categories which relied upon in the development of questionnaires for the survey. Using a quantitative approach, structured questionnaires were sent out to construction professionals who are based within the study area. Out of 165 questionnaires that were sent out, 101 were completed and reflecting a 61% response rate... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: De Koker, Chad Rhuaidri
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Sustainable construction - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/443827 , uj:38767
- Description: Abstract: The built environment contributes a substantial share of environmental degradation being experienced in contemporary society. As such, monitoring the environmental sustainability performance of these temporary multi-organizations during project delivery has become imperative. The incidence of poor environmental sustainability performance appears to have worsened as a result of project teams that lack knowledge on environmental sustainability, lack of technology implementation on sustainable workflow, pollution during construction activity, minimum waste regulators, poor energy usage control and inexperienced appointed professionals. This study was done to evaluate critical factors that influence environmental sustainability performance of construction projects in the Free State, South Africa. Several factors were deduced from a review of relevant literature. The identified factors were subsequently categorized into six main categories which relied upon in the development of questionnaires for the survey. Using a quantitative approach, structured questionnaires were sent out to construction professionals who are based within the study area. Out of 165 questionnaires that were sent out, 101 were completed and reflecting a 61% response rate... , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
Evaluation of risk management in the Nigerian construction industry
- Authors: Ugwu, Moses Chukwuebuka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - Nigeria - Management , Risk management - Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/294986 , uj:32107
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: The construction industry is characterized by an array of risks that can hinder construction managers in the fulfilment of the objectives of a construction project. If these risks are not properly evaluated before the commencement of a construction project, they could lead to project abandonment. This has been one of the major problems of the developing nations’ construction industry. Nigeria is one such nation. Hence, this study was focused on the Nigerian construction industry and how the industry players have been able to respond to risks that occur during construction projects. This study evaluated the factors that affect the management of construction risks in the Nigerian construction industry, the methods of risk management adopted by the industry players in the management of construction risks in Nigeria, the effectiveness of these methods and the extent to which the factors that influence risk management affect the Nigeria construction industry. This study adopted a questionnaire approach in collecting primary data. These questionnaires were distributed to construction professionals located in Lagos, Port Harcourt and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) which happen to be cities in Nigeria where construction work is prominent. A total of 200 questionnaires were administered through Google Forms. Out of the total, 150 completed questionnaires were validated as sufficient to answer the research questions and test whether the research objectives had been met. This represents a 75% response rate. So as to ensure the reliability of the data gathered through the questionnaire, a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient reliability test was carried out. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Further analysis carried out on the data using exploratory factor analysis to determine the correlation and reliability of the factors revealed that construction project managers should ensure that the history, team size, delivery time, management stability, experience and availability of resources are checked before the commencement of any project as this reduces the occurrence of risk. Factor analysis was also carried out on the remaining research questions and a general conclusion was reached, namely that the Nigerian construction industry is seen to adopt industry best practices in construction risk management through the use of identifying, assessing, responding, and control processes. The study recommends that practitioners in the industry need to increase the awareness of risks related to construction projects and to ensure its members are trained and updated with evolving construction risks and their management. Also, a certifying body should be put in place that regulates the activities of construction practitioners in the country so to ensure proper conformance to the laid down standards.
- Full Text:
- Authors: Ugwu, Moses Chukwuebuka
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - Nigeria - Management , Risk management - Nigeria
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/294986 , uj:32107
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: The construction industry is characterized by an array of risks that can hinder construction managers in the fulfilment of the objectives of a construction project. If these risks are not properly evaluated before the commencement of a construction project, they could lead to project abandonment. This has been one of the major problems of the developing nations’ construction industry. Nigeria is one such nation. Hence, this study was focused on the Nigerian construction industry and how the industry players have been able to respond to risks that occur during construction projects. This study evaluated the factors that affect the management of construction risks in the Nigerian construction industry, the methods of risk management adopted by the industry players in the management of construction risks in Nigeria, the effectiveness of these methods and the extent to which the factors that influence risk management affect the Nigeria construction industry. This study adopted a questionnaire approach in collecting primary data. These questionnaires were distributed to construction professionals located in Lagos, Port Harcourt and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) which happen to be cities in Nigeria where construction work is prominent. A total of 200 questionnaires were administered through Google Forms. Out of the total, 150 completed questionnaires were validated as sufficient to answer the research questions and test whether the research objectives had been met. This represents a 75% response rate. So as to ensure the reliability of the data gathered through the questionnaire, a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient reliability test was carried out. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Further analysis carried out on the data using exploratory factor analysis to determine the correlation and reliability of the factors revealed that construction project managers should ensure that the history, team size, delivery time, management stability, experience and availability of resources are checked before the commencement of any project as this reduces the occurrence of risk. Factor analysis was also carried out on the remaining research questions and a general conclusion was reached, namely that the Nigerian construction industry is seen to adopt industry best practices in construction risk management through the use of identifying, assessing, responding, and control processes. The study recommends that practitioners in the industry need to increase the awareness of risks related to construction projects and to ensure its members are trained and updated with evolving construction risks and their management. Also, a certifying body should be put in place that regulates the activities of construction practitioners in the country so to ensure proper conformance to the laid down standards.
- Full Text:
Mitigating the triple challenge through the influ-ence of green building literacy on pro-environmental behaviors in Johannesburg, South Africa
- Authors: Suwisai, Musundire
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399011 , uj:33242
- Description: Abstract : This dissertation was motivated by the desire to examine the effect of Green Building Literacy on pro-environmental behaviour and how it can be utilised to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. The study deploys Albert Bandura’s social learning theory as lenses in unmasking the complexities associated with processes of the effect of green building literacy on pro-environmental behaviour and how it can be utilized to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. This research was a qualitative phenomenological study that employed phenomenological interpretivism as its methodological epistemology to critique the perceptions and views of the subjects on the impact of green building literacy on pro-environmental based behaviours and its potential to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. In-depth interviews were utilised to gain in-depth understanding from the university students, Green Building professionals, and stakeholders on how practical the green literacy pro-environmental behaviours can be utilized to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. The documentary review such as the journal articles and reports on green building literacy pro-environmental behaviours and the triple challenge were also used as secondary data sources to triangulate the data from in-depth interviews. The results of the study overwhelmingly established that the green building literacy pro-environmental behaviours in South Africa are being under-utilized to mitigating the triple challenge due to the following reasons: fragmentation of green building literacy on the basis of the differences in the socio-economic lives and locations of people; inadequacy of green building literacy pro-environmental behaviour information because of the lack of community mobilization, stakeholders engagement and participation. Despite the foregoing challenges, the study established that the impact of green building literacy on pro-environmental behaviour program if strategically implemented in South Africa can immensely contribute in mitigating poverty and unemployment through the reduction of the costs of living and creation of employment. In light of the aforementioned findings, the study recommended that the government should invest in green building pro-environmental behaviours education and it must embrace a multidisciplinary stakeholders approach to enhance green building literacy in South Africa. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
- Authors: Suwisai, Musundire
- Date: 2019
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/399011 , uj:33242
- Description: Abstract : This dissertation was motivated by the desire to examine the effect of Green Building Literacy on pro-environmental behaviour and how it can be utilised to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. The study deploys Albert Bandura’s social learning theory as lenses in unmasking the complexities associated with processes of the effect of green building literacy on pro-environmental behaviour and how it can be utilized to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. This research was a qualitative phenomenological study that employed phenomenological interpretivism as its methodological epistemology to critique the perceptions and views of the subjects on the impact of green building literacy on pro-environmental based behaviours and its potential to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. In-depth interviews were utilised to gain in-depth understanding from the university students, Green Building professionals, and stakeholders on how practical the green literacy pro-environmental behaviours can be utilized to mitigate the triple challenge in South Africa. The documentary review such as the journal articles and reports on green building literacy pro-environmental behaviours and the triple challenge were also used as secondary data sources to triangulate the data from in-depth interviews. The results of the study overwhelmingly established that the green building literacy pro-environmental behaviours in South Africa are being under-utilized to mitigating the triple challenge due to the following reasons: fragmentation of green building literacy on the basis of the differences in the socio-economic lives and locations of people; inadequacy of green building literacy pro-environmental behaviour information because of the lack of community mobilization, stakeholders engagement and participation. Despite the foregoing challenges, the study established that the impact of green building literacy on pro-environmental behaviour program if strategically implemented in South Africa can immensely contribute in mitigating poverty and unemployment through the reduction of the costs of living and creation of employment. In light of the aforementioned findings, the study recommended that the government should invest in green building pro-environmental behaviours education and it must embrace a multidisciplinary stakeholders approach to enhance green building literacy in South Africa. , M.Tech. (Construction Management)
- Full Text:
Servitization adoption in the South African construction industry : a business model canvas approach
- Ramafalo, Rotondwa Benevolence
- Authors: Ramafalo, Rotondwa Benevolence
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297440 , uj:32427
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: The construction industry in South Africa and beyond has gained a reputation for delivering products to its clientele. As such, the industry has remained fixated on the attainment of the parameters associated with the iron triangle time, cost and quality; and more recently sustainability. This has prioritized project management success above project success. Accordingly, industry clients have been provided with buildings and infrastructure which do not achieve the initial objectives which led to their commissioning in the first instance, hence the prevalence in dissatisfied customers. The emergence of servitization and servitized business models stems from a need to curb this trend. Servitization is considered as a move from just selling products to offering a coordinated blend of products and services that deliver value in use. Yet, whereas other economic sectors have deployed this business model to enhance user/client satisfaction, the construction industry seems to be lagging. This study explored the factors influencing the adoption of servitization in the South African construction industry, relying on examples from other sectors. A systematic literature review was adopted as the research design for this study. Literature identified was selected based on a set of keywords, over a specified period and the database consulted. The selected articles were analysed using qualitative content analysis (QCA) based on pre-selected themes. The results show that the expanding attention for increasing profit margins, service component, competitive advantages and mostly “sustainability” are probable factors influencing the adoption of servitization in the construction industry. Furthermore, the study identified the critical success factors as well as failure factors which will affect the adoption of servitized business models in the South African construction industry. Finally, leveraging on the identified factors mentioned previously and the business model canvas (BMC), the study proposed a conceptual framework for the adoption of servitized business models in the South African construction industry. This study contributes to body of knowledge on product-service systems, especially as it pertains to servitization in the construction industry. Expectedly, the findings from the study will provide a platform for sustained discourse around the applicability and utility of these models in the South African construction industry in bringing about increased value-in-use for clients across the lifecycle of projects.
- Full Text:
Servitization adoption in the South African construction industry : a business model canvas approach
- Authors: Ramafalo, Rotondwa Benevolence
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Construction industry - South Africa - Management
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/297440 , uj:32427
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: The construction industry in South Africa and beyond has gained a reputation for delivering products to its clientele. As such, the industry has remained fixated on the attainment of the parameters associated with the iron triangle time, cost and quality; and more recently sustainability. This has prioritized project management success above project success. Accordingly, industry clients have been provided with buildings and infrastructure which do not achieve the initial objectives which led to their commissioning in the first instance, hence the prevalence in dissatisfied customers. The emergence of servitization and servitized business models stems from a need to curb this trend. Servitization is considered as a move from just selling products to offering a coordinated blend of products and services that deliver value in use. Yet, whereas other economic sectors have deployed this business model to enhance user/client satisfaction, the construction industry seems to be lagging. This study explored the factors influencing the adoption of servitization in the South African construction industry, relying on examples from other sectors. A systematic literature review was adopted as the research design for this study. Literature identified was selected based on a set of keywords, over a specified period and the database consulted. The selected articles were analysed using qualitative content analysis (QCA) based on pre-selected themes. The results show that the expanding attention for increasing profit margins, service component, competitive advantages and mostly “sustainability” are probable factors influencing the adoption of servitization in the construction industry. Furthermore, the study identified the critical success factors as well as failure factors which will affect the adoption of servitized business models in the South African construction industry. Finally, leveraging on the identified factors mentioned previously and the business model canvas (BMC), the study proposed a conceptual framework for the adoption of servitized business models in the South African construction industry. This study contributes to body of knowledge on product-service systems, especially as it pertains to servitization in the construction industry. Expectedly, the findings from the study will provide a platform for sustained discourse around the applicability and utility of these models in the South African construction industry in bringing about increased value-in-use for clients across the lifecycle of projects.
- Full Text:
An assessment of public urban infrastructure financing in South Africa
- Authors: Dithebe, Khotso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) - South Africa , Construction industry - South Africa - Management , City planning - South Africa , Urbanization - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284800 , uj:30773
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: Infrastructure development plays an essential role in any developing economy. Inadequate infrastructure investment excludes inhabitants from flourishing economically, thus negatively affecting the economic growth of communities and the nation at large. Without financial means to construct, maintain and restore public urban infrastructure, inhabitants continue to struggle. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the current urban infrastructure financing sources and recommend the most effective options for water infrastructure development in South Africa. The data used in this study was derived from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire, from which the questionnaire was developed through the review of literature. The structured questionnaire was distributed physically and using google form. Out of the 150 questionnaires distributed, 96 were returned. However, 91 of the 96 questionnaires were usable, representing a 64% response rate. A quantitative approach was used for this study. Data from the research was analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. Findings from the data analysis revealed that national government, provincial government, local government and para-state agencies are essential stakeholders of financing public urban infrastructure. In addition, the World Bank, development banks, the building and construction sector, infrastructure investors and civic associations were also pivotal stakeholders of public urban infrastructure financing. The study also showed that the level of awareness and usage of the traditional procurement system, develop and construct, management contracting, construction management, project management and public-private partnerships are recognisable procurement systems in the South African infrastructure projects. Likewise, the study revealed that the level of awareness and usage of local tax revenues and tariffs, inter-governmental transfers, user charges, municipal borrowing, debt financing, public-private partnerships and market instruments were important for financing public urban infrastructure projects. Furthermore, insufficient municipal revenue, insufficient investment laws, corruption, weak project structuring, inadequate risk-adjusted returns and extreme state guarantees on debt repayment were revealed as alarming challenges delaying public infrastructure investment in South Africa. Finally, legal frameworks stipulating policy continuity, clear legislation for private participation, political willingness, accountability, transparency and strong institutional arrangement from all spheres of government were identified as critical success factors for financing public urban infrastructure through public-private partnerships. The findings clearly revealed that government remains the custodian of...
- Full Text:
- Authors: Dithebe, Khotso
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Infrastructure (Economics) - South Africa , Construction industry - South Africa - Management , City planning - South Africa , Urbanization - South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Masters (Thesis)
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/284800 , uj:30773
- Description: M.Tech. (Construction Management) , Abstract: Infrastructure development plays an essential role in any developing economy. Inadequate infrastructure investment excludes inhabitants from flourishing economically, thus negatively affecting the economic growth of communities and the nation at large. Without financial means to construct, maintain and restore public urban infrastructure, inhabitants continue to struggle. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the current urban infrastructure financing sources and recommend the most effective options for water infrastructure development in South Africa. The data used in this study was derived from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was collected using a structured questionnaire, from which the questionnaire was developed through the review of literature. The structured questionnaire was distributed physically and using google form. Out of the 150 questionnaires distributed, 96 were returned. However, 91 of the 96 questionnaires were usable, representing a 64% response rate. A quantitative approach was used for this study. Data from the research was analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. Findings from the data analysis revealed that national government, provincial government, local government and para-state agencies are essential stakeholders of financing public urban infrastructure. In addition, the World Bank, development banks, the building and construction sector, infrastructure investors and civic associations were also pivotal stakeholders of public urban infrastructure financing. The study also showed that the level of awareness and usage of the traditional procurement system, develop and construct, management contracting, construction management, project management and public-private partnerships are recognisable procurement systems in the South African infrastructure projects. Likewise, the study revealed that the level of awareness and usage of local tax revenues and tariffs, inter-governmental transfers, user charges, municipal borrowing, debt financing, public-private partnerships and market instruments were important for financing public urban infrastructure projects. Furthermore, insufficient municipal revenue, insufficient investment laws, corruption, weak project structuring, inadequate risk-adjusted returns and extreme state guarantees on debt repayment were revealed as alarming challenges delaying public infrastructure investment in South Africa. Finally, legal frameworks stipulating policy continuity, clear legislation for private participation, political willingness, accountability, transparency and strong institutional arrangement from all spheres of government were identified as critical success factors for financing public urban infrastructure through public-private partnerships. The findings clearly revealed that government remains the custodian of...
- Full Text: