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Assessment of current and future critical skills in the South African Construction Industry

  • Authors: Musonda, Innocent , Okoro, Chioma
  • Date: 2021
  • Subjects: Construction industry , Performance , Productivity
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/487810 , uj:44420 , Citation: Musonda, I. & Okoro, C. 2021. Assessment of current and future critical skills in the South African Construction Industry.
  • Description: Abstract: The role of skills development in attaining productivity and competitiveness in industry and global level cannot be overemphasized in the construction sector. The study aims to evaluate the critical skills needed in the construction industry. A quantitative study was conducted and data were collected using questionnaires distributed among construction professionals including project managers, construction managers, quantity surveyors, architects and engineers based in South Africa. The data amassed were analyzed to output descriptive statistics. The skills were ranked according to the level of priority as perceived by the respondents. Findings from the empirical data analysis established that the critical skills needed within the construction industry at present and in the future are health and safety competence, decision-making, leadership, and problem-solving skills. On the other hand, public-speaking, big data mining, and internet of things were not considered to be critical. These findings indicated that even with technological advancements, skills needed to ensure that projects were delivered successfully included managerial skills. The study sheds more light on skills considered critical at present and which might be relevant in the future. The study signposts the importance of critical skills to an individual and the entire construction industry. Efforts can be made to ensure that relevant critical skills for high output are emphasized and planning can be made for future and predicted construction industry workforce needs.
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Procurement planning factors influencing the quality performance of primary healthcare building facilities : a mediation effect of the firm’s business partnership

Costing of health and safety elements in 2 construction projects in Gauteng, South Africa

Effect of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on Road Transport Asset Management Practice in Nigeria

  • Authors: Gambo, Nuru , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Fourth Industrial Revolution , Road asset , Management practices
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/458307 , uj:40702 , Gambo, N., Musonda, I.: Effect of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on Road Transport Asset Management Practice in Nigeria.
  • Description: Abstract: Poor management practices of road transport assets posed a challenge to the sustainable development of the transport system in developing countries like Nigeria. Studies in the past focused mainly on the performance of road construction process. However, few studies have evaluated the effect of the fourth industrial revolution (4.0IR) on the road transport assets in developing countries such as Nigeria. The current study aimed at assessing the effect of the fourth industrial revolution towards improving the management practice of road transport assets. Survey instruments were administered to project and facility managers in the Nigerian road construction sector of the economy using a proportionate random sampling technique. Partial least square structural equation modelling was used for data analysis utilising the Warp 7.0 PLS-SEM software algorithm. The software calculates p-values with WarpPLS based on non-parametric algorithms, resampling or stable algorithms and thus does not require that the variables to be normally distributed. The study concluded that 4.0IR drivers have a moderate effect change on the management practice of road transport assets in Nigeria at the moment. The findings imply that management of road assets in Nigeria would moderately improve due to 4.0IR technologies resulting in transport, safety and general efficiency and effectiveness of road networks in Nigeria. The study identified 4.0IR drivers to include; robotics, mobility, virtual and augmented reality, internet of things and cloud computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, blockchain, 3D printing drones that are built with an attached 3D printer, (the drone hangs a 3D printing nozzle that's fed plastic, concrete mix or other material from a tube connected to the top of the drone's printing path that precisely plotted by software, for a promised printing accuracy of 0.1mm),and digital engineering. This study emanated from the government reports and past studies in the area of road transport asset management practice which the study investigated the major causes of poor practices and assessed the effect of the fourth industrial revolution on the practice.
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Effects of Financial Management practices on technical performance of building contractors in Northeast Nigeria

  • Authors: Gambo, Nuru , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Financial Management Practices , Technical , Performance
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/458287 , uj:40700 , Gambo, N., Musonda, I.: Effects of Financial Management practices on technical performance of building contractors in Northeast Nigeria.
  • Description: Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to assess the effects of financial management practices of small scale building contractors on the technical performance of the contractors in northern part of Nigeria with international best practices. Previous studies argued that the technical performance of small scale building contractors in developing countries is poor because of insufficient cash to acquire strategic resources at the outset of a project. This continues to pose a challenge to the sustainable development of the construction industry, particularly, in developing countries like Nigeria. There is therefore, a need to identify, assess, and compare the effects of financial practices of the contractors with technical performance best practices. Design/methodology/approach – The technical performance of each contractor was evaluated using a five-point Likert scale. This is used to obtain the mean technical performance levels of the contractors. A questionnaire survey was administered to the professionals in the industry who were selected by using a proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The contractors’ performance was compared by using ANOVA with post hoc and the effects of contractors’ financial management practices were determined using multiple regression analysis. Findings – The results indicated that the contractors in Nigeria were average technical performers and there were large effects of financial management practices on technical performance of contractors in building projects’. . Research limitations/implications – The study is limited to small scale building contractors in the northeast Nigeria. One of the implications of this study is that it provides the criteria for an evaluation of small scale building contractors’ technical performance in Nigeria and other developing countries that faced similar problems. Practical implications - The practical implications of this study is that it establishes the current level of contractors' technical performance and serves as awareness to contractors current financial practices. Social implications – The study created bases for self-evaluation of contractors’ technical performance and competition among small scale contractors in Nigeria for the enhancement of productivity particularly in rural areas and general national development. Originality/value – This study emanated from the governmental reports and past researches in the area of performance management based on the persistence of poor technical performance of small scale contractors in construction industry.
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Identifying factors of collaboration critical for improving health and safety performance in construction projects : a systematic literature review

Identifying motivators and challenges to BIM implementation among facilities managers in Johannesburg, South Africa

  • Authors: Okoro, Chioma , Musonda, Innocent , Kruger, Andre
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Assets , BIM , Facilities
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/446157 , uj:39059 , Citation: Okoro, C., Musonda, I. & Kruger, A. 2020. Identifying motivators and challenges to BIM implementation among facilities managers in Johannesburg, South Africa. , DOI: https://doi.org/10.3311/CCC2020-028
  • Description: Abstract: The use of technology such as building information modelling (BIM) during the operational and management phase of a building helps to improve facilities and asset performance. However, the slow uptake of building information modelling (BIM) in the facilities and asset management industry diminishes the value derivable from properties and assets in general. The current study examines the motivation to adoption of BIM in the facilities and asset management industry and identifies barriers or challenges to BIM implementation in the sector. A field questionnaire survey was used to collect data among facilities management firms in Johannesburg South Africa. Empirical data from 17 participants were analysed to output frequencies on the challenges of BIM implementation. Findings revealed that competitive advantage, innovativeness, peer-push, as well as organisational image and objectives were motivators for adopting BIM in facilities management. The challenges of BIM implementation were mostly a lack of knowledge (trained personnel) on how to use BIM in facilities management, data management quality, lower data management standards (quality) at the operational stage, inadequate data provision for maintenance and management of facilities. Other issues included limited coordination or cooperation from team members and stakeholders on projects, absence of guidance on best practices to ensure performance optimisation and facilities management support using BIM, and financial commitment and infrastructure involved.
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Mediation effect of partnership on procurement strategy factors influencing sustainable smart housing development, Nigeria

  • Authors: Gambo, Nuru , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2020
  • Subjects: Smart housing , Sustainability , Technology partnering
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/458299 , uj:40701 , Gambo, N., Musonda, I.: Mediation effect of partnership on procurement strategy factors influencing sustainable smart housing development, Nigeria.
  • Description: Abstract: Purpose - The procurement strategy challenges influencing the development of sustainable smart housing requires a holistic system approach that models the relationships between procurement strategies and sustainable smart housing development approach. This considers the use of technology partnering to ensure value for money. The purpose of the paper is to assess the mediation effect of the technology partnership on procurement strategy influencing sustainable smart housing development. Design/Methodology/Approach - This study used a quantitative approach and primary data were collected via a structured questionnaire. In total, 500 survey questionnaires were administered to project managers in the Nigerian construction industry and a stratified proportionate random sampling method was used for the selection of respondents. Findings - The results indicated that the procurement strategy influenced sustainable smart housing development in Nigeria, and the technology partnership mediates the relationship between procurement strategy and sustainable smart housing development. Research limitations/implications - This quantitative study is based on the perception of construction project managers in Nigeria. The findings serve as an awareness to the government and other stakeholders in the construction industry on the development of sustainable smart housing in Nigeria. Managerial implications – The study suggests that technology partnership reduces the effect of procurement strategy factors and hence improves development of sustainable mass smart housing infrastructure for the growing population. Practical implications – The study establishes that technology partnership mediates the relationship between procurement strategy factors and sustainable smart housing development through enhancement of smart housing development and serves as awareness to stakeholders on the factors influencing smart housing development in Nigeria. Originality/Value – Mediation roles of technology partnership minimizes procurement strategy challenges and enhances sustainable smart housing development.
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A factor analysis of transportation infrastructure feasibility study factors : a study among built environment professionals in South Africa

A factor analysis of transportation infrastructure feasibility study factors : a study among built environment professionals in South Africa

A Review of Critical Project Management Techniques to Enhance Construction SMEs Project Performance

  • Authors: Emere, Chijioke , Musonda, Innocent , Okoro, Chioma
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Construction SMEs , Project performance , Project management techniques
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/396774 , uj:32951 , Citation: Emere, C., Musonda, I. & Okoro, C. 2019. A Review of Critical Project Management Techniques to Enhance Construction SMEs Project Performance.
  • Description: Abstract: Performance is linked with implementation of project management techniques. Lit- erature suggests that problems such as inefficiency, poor budgetary issues, improper planning, scheduling and control in projects execution are associated with inadequate implementation of the essential techniques for meeting project deliverables. These shortcomings are prevalent among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the developing countries including South Af- rica. Hence, the primary objective of this paper is to review the critical project management tech- niques for the improvement of construction project performance especially among SMEs in South Africa. The study is based on previous literature on construction SMEs project performance as well as project management techniques implementation. The literature review centered on both international and South African context. The study revealed that critical path method, work breakdown structure, and earned value management analysis were the most occurring project management techniques from the sampled literature. Findings from this study are envisaged to be beneficial to construction stakeholders in developing relevant project management techniques to improve the performance of SMEs.
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A review of critical project management techniques to enhance construction SMEs project performance

  • Authors: Emere, Chijioke , Musonda, Innocent , Okoro, Chioma
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Construction SMEs , Project performance , Project management techniques
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404321 , uj:33903 , Citation: Emere, C., Musonda, I. & Okoro, C. 2019. A review of critical project management techniques to enhance construction SMEs project performance.
  • Description: Abstract: Performance is linked with implementation of project management techniques. Literature suggests that problems such as inefficiency, poor budgetary issues, improper planning, scheduling and control in projects execution are associated with inadequate implementation of the essential techniques for meeting project deliverables. These shortcomings are prevalent among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the developing countries including South Africa. Hence, the primary objective of this paper is to review the critical project management techniques for the improvement of construction project performance especially among SMEs in South Africa. The study is based on previous literature on construction SMEs project performance as well as project management techniques implementation. The literature review centered on both international and South African context. The study revealed that critical path method, work breakdown structure, and earned value management analysis were the most occurring project management techniques from the sampled literature. Findings from this study are envisaged to be beneficial to construction stakeholders in developing relevant project management techniques to improve the performance of SMEs.
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An assessment of factors influencing collaboration and impacts on organisational performance : a review

An assessment of transformation strategies in South Africa: A multi-case study of the accounting, financial services, government, and construction sectors

  • Authors: Musonda, Innocent , Gumbo, Trynos , Okoro, Chioma
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Built environment , Socio-economic , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/405000 , uj:33989 , Citation: Musonda, I., Gumbo, T., Okoro, C. 2019 : An assessment of transformation strategies in South Africa: A multi-case study of the accounting, financial services, government, and construction sectors.
  • Description: Abstract : Globally, transformation is etched in all sectors of the economy. In the South African context, transformation is viewed as the catalyst to address the country’s socio-economic problems and their associated impact on different sectors and the economy at large. However, progress on transformation within the built environment has been slow in comparison with other sectors of the economy. As a result, this has led to a need to examine the transformation processes in the country. This article aims to analyse transformation strategies as conceptualised and implemented by various sectors. The article is based on a multi-case study of identified sectors and organisations that have developed and implemented transformation strategies. The materials used to conduct the study include sector transformation strategies, charters, journal articles, articles published in reputable South African newspapers, organisation reports, information publicly available on the internet, and interviews conducted with sector representatives. The findings show that, for all sectors, transformation strategies are driven through skills development of human resources, with a view to redressing historical imbalances and providing equal opportunities. The process of strategy development involves sector- wide participation and having a champion for the strategy. In order to ensure that strategies are implemented, specific structured training and education programmes from the grassroots to professional level, as well as monitoring of progress are emphasised. Recommendations are made in line with the findings in order to guide the Council for the Built Environment in the development of a strategy for the built environment.
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An exploratory factor analysis of transportation project sustainability indicators : a case of projects in South Africa

  • Authors: Okoro, Chioma , Musonda, Innocent , Agumba, Justus Ngala
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Infrastructure , Performance , South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/396810 , uj:32956 , Citation: Okoro, C., Musonda, I. & Agumba, J.N. 2019. An exploratory factor analysis of transportation project sustainability indicators: a case of projects in South Africa.
  • Description: Abstract: Sustainable transportation is vital since its impact traverses generations. The concept of sustainable transportation is known to account for incorporation of various elements including environmental, economic, social and institutional factors. The current study employed exploratory factor analytic technique using maximum likelihood factoring to identify critical indicators for assessing transportation infrastructure projects in South Africa. Using purposive and snowball sampling, a questionnaire was distributed via email, google forms and by hand, to project managers, directors, construction managers, planners and feasibility study consultants involved in transportation projects at different stages, in the nine provinces of South Africa. Empirical data amassed from 132 responses, were analysed using SPSS version 25 software.s Descriptive analyses were used for preliminary analyses. Inferential statistics was conducted using exploratory factor analysis, to output common factors and the minimum number of variables that were related to each construct. Findings revealed that a four-factor structure including infrastructure condition and impacts, user acceptability, financial management and safety and security, can adequately measure transportation infrastructure project sustainability. By establishing critical indicators for assessing transportation projects, the study provides relevant evidence to develop strategies to ensure that such investments bring lasting and desirable impacts in the long run. The study was conducted in South Africa and may not be generalisable to other geographical regions, which may have differing priorities with regard to sustainable performance of transport infrastructure. Further studies are on-going to validate the four-factor structure using confirmatory factor analytical techniques.
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Construction contingency determination : a review of processes and techniques

Evaluating the relationship between communication management practices and project outcomes : a case study of Eswatini (Swaziland) construction industry

Gravity-fed column configuration for acid mine drainage experiment

  • Authors: Solomon, Fitsum H. , Ekolu, Stephen O. , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Gravity column , Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) , Pervious concrete
  • Language: English
  • Type: Article
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/404495 , uj:33924 , Citation: Solomon, F.H., Ekolu, S.O. & Musonda, I. 2019. Gravity-fed column configuration for acid mine drainage experiment.
  • Description: Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a gravity feed column set-up and to set the flow parameters based on experimentally measured flow rates and pressure drops. Prior to the present study the authors used a column set-up in which acid mine drainage was pumped through pervious concrete filled columns. However, power outages due to load shedding often disrupted the experiments. As such, the gravity feed set-up was designed to overcome the need to rely on electrical power supply. The study describes the design set-up of four gravity columns. The design requirements comprised determination of appropriate column sizes, pressure heads and hydraulic gradients required to produce a low flow rate of about 1 mL/min at outlets of the columns filled with pervious concrete media. Of special interest is the hydraulic gradient being responsible for continuous flow in each column. Following completion of the design set-up, continuous flow rates of 0.60 to 0.80 mL/min were attained with a Reynolds number of about 4.0 in the columns filled with pervious concrete. Further research is in progress involving employment of the gravity-feed system for acid mine drainage treatment investigations.
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Mediation effects of incentive partnerships on smart procurement factors influencing quality provisions of affordable housing projects within construction sector of Nigerian economy

  • Authors: Gambo, Nuru , Musonda, Innocent
  • Date: 2019
  • Subjects: Incentive partnership , Smart procurement factors , Quality affordable housing
  • Language: English
  • Type: Conference proceedings
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10210/403627 , uj:33831 , Citation: Gambo, N. & Musonda, I. 2019. Mediation effects of incentive partnerships on smart procurement factors influencing quality provisions of affordable housing projects within construction sector of Nigerian economy.
  • Description: Abstract: Construction industry is one of the industries that contribute significantly to global economic development through procurement of various infrastructures that enhance living standards and other economic activities. The development of any nation is measured by the level of its fixed capital formations. Unfortunately, the provisions of such assets are being influenced by smart procurement process influencing successful delivery of quality and affordable housing projects in developing countries like Nigeria. This study is aimed at assessing the mediation effects of incentive partnership concept to reduce effects smart procurement factors influencing quality provisions of affordable housing projects in the rural areas of Nigeria; this would tremendously enhance the living standards of rural populace in developing countries.. The study identified smart procurement planning factors influencing provisions of quality affordable housing projects in rural areas of developing countries. In total, 400 survey questionnaires were administered to project managers in the Nigerian construction industry and stratified proportionate random sampling method was used for the selection of respondents and 322 questionnaires were returned, with 300 used in the analysis. The results indicated that partnership incentive mitigates/reduces the effects of poor management of smart procurement factors. The study recommends adoption of partnership incentives for enhances mass provision of quality affordable housing in developing countries.
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No one-size-fits-all organizational solution : learning from rapid rail developments in Ethiopia and South Africa

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