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1
Burroughs, Gary Leslie. "The response to environmental economic drivers by civil engineering contractors in South Australia." Title page, contents and abstract only, 2000. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09ENV/09envb972.pdf.
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Bibliography: leaves 91-93. Examines the response of two civil engineering construction contractors in South Australia to environmental economic conditions and market requirements using primarily an action research methodology whilst the researcher was engaged as the environmental manager at both corporations.
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Weddikkara, Chitra. "The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka." Weddikkara, Chitra (2003) The impact of professional culture on dispute resolution in the building industries of Australia and Sri-Lanka. PhD thesis, Murdoch University, 2003. http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/395/.
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The construction industry poses a number of challenges to those working in it. One important challenge is that the industry is dependent upon human interactions in the management of building projects. In this environment it is important for those who manage the projects to deal with intricate relationships and to consider the emotions, interactions and various types of reasoning that lie behind the actions and decisions taken by the participants in the construction process.
The issue for researchers is to gain a better understanding of the variables that affect the actions of the participants in this process. Such research demands sensitivity to the values, attitudes and behavior developed by the different occupational groupings. These factors according to Edgar Schein define the culture of a professional group. This research was conceived on the belief that the professionals in the construction industry brought to bear their own professional culture on the industry. It was necessary to have a better understanding of this culture in order to be able to resolve disputes that occur in the construction process.
That is the impact of culturally deternlined values, attitudes and behavior of these professional groups. Therefore, this research is aimed at investigating the professional cultures of the participants who come together in a construction project. The question posed was whether they shared a culture or had differences, and if differences existed whetherthese differences had an effect on the reactions of each of the groups to disputes and their resolution.
A survey was carried out among professional groups in Australia and Sri-Lanka and the survey data from both countries were analyzed using statistical tests. The results show that professional groups share similarities in professional culture as well as differences. It also showed that these cultural differences created an adversarial atmosphere among construction project participants. It was also found that introducing a party outside of the usual professional groups would be beneficial in the resolution process. Respondents were of the opinion that the third party outside of the construction team could be a lawyer.
This type of research is still new within the field of construction. The contributions of this work are to link professional culture and conflict and give some indication how such conflict could be addressed. In this context by identifying the values attitudes and behavior of professional groups the subject of conflict and disputes could be beneficially addressed through professional education.
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Emuze, Fidelis Abumere. "Performance improvement in South African construction." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1642.
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In general, dreams are conceived, ideas are conceptualised, and initiatives are embarked upon in order to alter the state of realities. Dreams change realities; when mechanisms are put in place to realise them, dreams succeed. However, anecdotal evidence as well as empirical findings has continued to reiterate the difficulties associated with realising dreams related to construction projects. Extending the „dream‟ analogy to the South African construction industry context therefore paints an uninspiring picture. Dreams associated with construction do not have a 100% chance of becoming realities as evident in reported poor project performance in the industry. Shattered dreams in the form of poor performing projects, poorly implemented construction processes, or worst, projects delivered at the expense of unexpected cost to the client as a direct result of poor H&S or time overruns, negate the intent of dreams. This thesis is primarily concerned with project performance related bottlenecks in South African construction. After an extensive review of related literature that entails the analysis of publications related to non-value adding activities (NVAAs), supply chain management (SCM), and system dynamics (SD) in the construction project management realm, an exhaustive mixed-mode quantitative survey was conducted among key participants in the South African infrastructure sector. Public sector clients, consulting engineers and contractors that were involved in civil engineering projects were surveyed repeatedly with approximately five survey instruments at convenient intervals. Results arising from the study, inter-alia, indicate that: an appreciable amount of NVAAs occur in South African construction; these NVAAs become further compounded when propagated into other value adding activities (VAAs) in the construction process; the identified NVAAs equally perpetrate the menace associated with poor performance to the detriment of the achievement of cost, H&S, quality, and time project targets, and the root cause of these NVAAs that often contribute to poor performance is not far from the much reported „shortage of skills‟ in South Africa. Notable contributions to the body of knowledge include SD models are extendable regardless of the source of their empirical data as evident in the qualitative models proposed in this study; within the SD domain, it is advisable to consider the „competence‟ of individuals assigned to tasks especially in a developing country as this study revealed that human resources issues predominate among the sources of NVAAs that eventuate in a range of poor project performance; the NVAAs that occur, and their causes on projects are perceived to be due to lapses and / or inadequacies that involved the entire construction supply chain; there is no single construction process / task that is immune from being affected by NVAAs; and within the South African, and by implication construction context generally iii in developing countries, the adequacy of required knowledge among project stakeholders is the most crucial determinant of project performance. As opposed to what is obtainable in developed countries, the construction industry in developing countries, particularly in South Africa, should take advantage of knowledge management (KM) techniques such as brainstorming, communities of practices, and face-to-face interactions. These techniques can be driven through appropriate mentorship programmes, industry focused built environment education, and other human resources driven avenues that do not necessarily require substantial investment in technologies, so that to a large extent organisations in the industry can prioritise KM, and thereafter, continually engage in it for future performance improvement. Using inferential statistical methods for hypotheses testing, and SD concepts for creating qualitative models led to a range of recommendations which, inter-alia, propose that halting the tide of NVAAs and poor performance requires the management of both tacit and explicit knowledge gained in construction; and most importantly, it requires the assurance that „competence‟ is the overriding criteria for selecting project partners, and also, for assigning either design or construction related activities to responsible parties involved in project realisation in South Africa. In effect, in order to engender a culture of continuous improvement in South African construction, other considerations should be subservient to „competence‟ in the construction supply chain. Competence must be located among everyone involved in project realisation, that is, enhancing the competence of all involved in project realisation is as good as ensuring performance improvement, which in turn, equates to the acceleration of project delivery in South Africa.
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Van, Rooyen Roelof Petrus. "Strategic management of construction companies." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020407.
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The research emanated from an investigation of GB7, GB8 and GB9 main contractors in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The study was focussed on the strident economic times in the construction industry following the FIFA Soccer World Cup from August 2010 to December 2012. The research was conducted to identify the key strategy or combination of strategies keeping construction entities in operation. The study further investigates the key elements of a successful turnaround strategy as well as the most effective methods in implementing strategies within construction organizations. The research took the form of an empirical quantitative study where a descriptive survey was used to collect data. Structured interviews were held with the target population to collect data in the field. The study established that geographic diversification was the most effective method utilized by main contractors for survival during the study timeframe. The study also found that lowering of profit margins and preliminary and general amounts were most effective methods in the use of turn around strategies. The study finally concluded that effective steps were taken by main contractors in the Eastern Cape to implement corporate strategies within their organizations. Step by step guidance to all employees on new processes was the key element in successful strategic implementation of a strategy within construction organizations. The research conducted contributes to the strategic management competency within the built environment as well as the existing body of knowledge within the construction industry. All members of the construction industry in South Africa involved with strategic level planning of entities would value the study.
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Groeneveld, G. D. "The way forward for the South African construction industry : an industry analysis with project management solutions." Thesis, Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/5029.
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Thesis (MBA (Business Management))--University of Stellenbsoch, 2006.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: South Africa's construction industry is emerging from decades of decline into a period of significant growth and opportunity. The industry will need to double its output over the next ten years in order to cope with the infrastructure and housing demands placed on it. The construction industry is also a national asset and South Africa's
economic growth depends on the physical infrastructure that is delivered by this industry. This growth trajectory holds out significant opportunity for employment and training to a community that largely suffers from poverty, unemployment and lack of education. This opportunity will only be realised if the role-players in the industry collectively understand and address the challenges of meaningful and sustainable industry growth and efficiency.
The study proceeds with a critical look at issues in the construction industry, to identify the industry's inhibiting factors to delivery and to highlight issues contributing to these factors. A SWOT analysis assists in highlighting internal and external characteristics that can be turned into possible solutions. Based on this analysis, action guidelines are identified. Subsequent chapters investigate possible solutions through project management techniques.
The first area of research evolves around labour resource management and finds
that thoroughly researched resource planning models could provide predictions
regarding shortages and performances, and could also assist in the more accurate planning of skills requirements in the design phase of a project. The advantages of multi-skilling can also be beneficial to efforts to overcome current shortages and train a wider base of new entrants. In order to address low production of workers in the industry, morale-boosting investments are suggested that can yield high returns in the form of improved individual performance, higher job-site productivity, as well as cost and time savings to the project.
There is strong evidence that a lack of project team integration is a major constraint to its efficient functioning and, inevitably, successful project delivery. Solutions in the next chapter focus on integration strategies to integrate design and construction in a common goal of delivery methods, to streamline workflow and to find synergy in the efforts of team members. The process of benchmarking encourages participation and clear communication of goals and expectations to all project participants. Process mapping assists in understanding how value is added to projects and mapping of business processes identifies how the project meets its customer's requirements.
The third section looks at tools and techniques to promote a more economical
construction process through improved management initiatives. Lean construction methods are based on traditional manufacturing concepts, but focuses on minimising waste and inventory and streamlining the flow of resources and information. Another technique is the key emphasis on quality assurance and the advancement through all the processes of innovation that needs to be part of an organisation or project strategy. Knowledge management as a further tool and support measure is complex and challenging in the organisational framework of construction projects. Much of the knowledge gained on projects is lost to future projects. All of the project management
tools described in this study will benefit greatly from improved knowledge
management.
The study identifies some applicable tools and techniques that can be implemented to address critical issues of delivery in the construction industry. The continuous effort and commitment required for successful implementation of these measures will ultimately however depend on change agents and management buy-in that goes with organisation renewal.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die konstruksiebedryf in Suid-Afrika beweeg, na dekades van verval, na 'n tydperk van betekenisvolle groei en geleenthede. Die bedryf sal in die volgende tien jaar moet verdubbel om tred te hou met die eise wat gestel gaan word deur die behoefte aan infrastruktuur en behuising. Die konstruksiebedryf is ook 'n nasionale bate en die ekonomiese groei van Suid-Afrika is afhanklik van die fisiese infrastruktuur wat deur die bedryf gelewer word. Hierdie groeitrajek bied betekenisvolle geleenthede vir
werkskepping en opleiding aan 'n gemeenskap wat gebuk gaan onder armoede,
werkloosheid en gebrek aan onderwys. Hierdie geleenthede sal slegs realiseer as al die rolspelers in die bedryf begryp wat die uitdagings behels en die geleenthede van volgehoue groei en doeltreffendheid aanspreek.
Hierdie studie gaan verder met 'n kritiese benadering tot die strydvrae in die
konstruksiebedryf en om die beperkende faktore te identifiseer en die
aangeleenthede uit te lig. 'n SWOT ontleding is 'n hulpmiddel om die interne en
eksterne karaktertrekke, wat tot oplossings kan lei, saam te voeg. Uit hierdie
ontleding kan riglyne vir aksie bepaal word en moontlike oplossings in spesifieke areas van navorsing gevind word. Opvolgende hoofstukke sal moontlike oplossings in tegnieke van projekbestuur ondersoek.
Die eerste navorsingsgebied ontvou rondom die bestuur van die arbeidsbron. Die
bevinding is dat deeglik nagevorsde modelle van beplanning vooruitskattings lewer ten opsigte van leweringstekorte. Dit bring beter beplanning van
vaardigheidsbehoeftes in die beplanningsfase van die projek mee. Die voordele van meervoudige vaardighede kan ook voordelig wees in pogings om die huidige tekort te oorbrug en lei 'n breër spektrum van toetreders op. Ten einde die lae produksie van werkers in die industrie aan te spreek, word die uitbou van moraal voorgestel. Dit lewer hoër opbrengste in die vorm van verbeterde individuele prestasie, hoër produktiwiteit in die werkplek, sowel as algehele koste- en tydsbesparings.
Daar bestaan sterk aanduidings dat die gebrek aan interpretasie van projekspanne 'n belangrike beperking op die effektiewe werking en die suksesvolle aflewering van 'n projek het. Oplossings in die volgende hoofstuk fokus op die integrasie van strategiee om ontwerp en konstruksie in die gesamentlike mikpunt van leweringsfunksies te integreer, om die werksvloei te verfyn en sinergie in die pogings van spanlede te vind. Die proses van doelstellingsbestuur verhoog deelname. Dit verskaf duidelike mikpunte en lig verwagtinge aan deelnemers uit. Proses-kartering help mee in die proses om waarde toevoeging tot projekte te begryp. Die kartering van sakeprosesse dui aan hoe projekte die behoeftes van kliënte bevredig.
Die derde afdeling plaas die blik op tegnieke om tegniese vaardigheid te bevorder deur meer ekonomiese samestelling en verbeterde bestuursinisiatiewe. Skraalkonstruksie ("lean construction") is gegrondves op tradisionele vervaardigingskonsepte.
Dit fokus op minimalisering van vermorsing en stroombelyning van
voorraadbestuur sowel as die vloei van hulpbronne en inligting. 'n Ander tegniek is die versekering van kwaliteit en vooruitgang deur die genoemde proses van innovering wat deel moet wees van 'n organisasie of projek se strategie.
Kennisbestuur is 'n verdere ondersteuningsmeganisme. Dit is kompleks en uitdagend in die organisatoriese raamwerk van konstruksie projekte. Baie kennis, wat deur projekte verwerf word, gaan verlore vir projekte van die toekoms. Alle hulpmiddels vir projekbestuur wat in hierdie studie beskryf word kan aansienlik baat vind deur verbeterde kennisbestuur.
Hierdie studie identifiseer sekere hulpmiddels wat toegepas kan word. Dit spreek ook kritieke strydvrae oor lewering in die konstruksiebedryf aan. Die voortdurende inspanning en toewyding benodig vir die suksesvolle aanwending van hierdie maatreëls vereis voortdurende deelname en onderskrywing van die topbestuur van organisasies.
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Olatunji, Aiyetan Ayodeji. "Influences on construction project delivery time." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1548.
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Construction delays are a global phenomenon. Factors causing construction delays in construction projects differ from country to country, due to different prevailing conditions. The prevailing conditions that could exert an influence on project delivery time are: political, economic, and physical factors as well as level of technological development; management style, and construction techniques. The construction industry is a major player in the economy, generating both employment and wealth. However, many projects experience extensive delays and thereby exceed initial time and cost estimates. This study aims at determining the causes of delays in project delivery in South Africa; evolving interventions, and developing a model for the delivery of projects on time. Inferential and linear regression statistical tools were used in the analysis of data for the study. The sample population consists of architects, builders, quantity surveyors, structural engineers, and clients, and the metropolitan cities of five provinces constituted the geographical delimitation of the study. The provinces are: Eastern Cape; Free State; Gauteng; KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape. The metropolitan cities are: Bloemfontein; Cape Town; Durban; Johannesburg, and Port Elizabeth. Findings which negatively influence project delivery time in South Africa include the following: lack of adequate planning; management style; the lack of constructability reviews of designs; inadequate motivation of workers; economic policies; lack of prompt payment to contractors, and quality of management during design and construction. Recommendations include: (1) The introduction of the following courses in built environment tertiary education � quality management competences; operational planning; design management, and generic management; (2) pre-qualification of suppliers; (3) inclusion of the following in tender documentation � human resource schedule; plant and equipment schedule; quality assurance plan, and work schedule; (4) appointment of materials specialists on a large projects; (5) the model developed should be adopted for use in the South African construction industry for the delivery of projects on time, and (6) the linear regression equation: Y = 13.1159 + 1.1341x or 35.3 percent addition on time for the estimation of project delivery time.
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Adebowale, Oluseyi Julius. "Framework for effective management of the construction workforce towards enhancement of labour efficiency during the building production process in South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1065.
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Thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree
Master of Technology: Construction Management in the Faculty of Engineering
at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology
2014<br>The study investigates the predominant factors that adversely affect the efficiency of construction labour in the South African construction industry.
There is a significant number of studies on construction labour efficiency and productivity. Nonetheless, construction labour efficiency in developed and developing nations is widely reported to be inadequate, and thus adversely impacts the delivery of construction projects. Adequate utilisation of basic construction resources (construction materials and machinery) is significantly dependent on the efficiency of human assets in the construction industry. Hence, the utilisation of construction resources to achieve project objectives in the construction sector cannot be disconnected from the efficiency of construction employees. As a result, the study identified five objectives directed towards improving the efficiency of employees in the construction industry. The first objective identified construction-related factors affecting construction workers’ efficiency; the second objective highlighted design-related factors reducing the efficiency of construction labour; the third identified the impact of construction resources on construction labour efficiency; and the fourth ascertained the external factors affecting the efficiency of human assets in the construction industry. Finally, the last objective is directed towards developing a framework for improving the efficiency of the South African construction workforce.
The research adopted a mixed methodological approach, utilising a quantitative questionnaire completed by construction professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, site engineers, project managers, contract managers and site manager). Due to the high level of awareness of site supervisors on labour performance in construction, the quantitative data obtained from construction professionals was subsequently validated using semi-structured interviews with site supervisors. The research questionnaire was designed to elicit the perceptions of construction professionals on various identified factors affecting construction workers’ efficiency on Gauteng and Western Cape construction sites in South Africa.
With the aid of 35 unstructured questionnaire surveys, an exploratory study was undertaken within construction firms in Cape Town to ensure the validity of research instruments, where the inputs and comments of respondents were duly considered in formulating the questionnaire for the main study. In the main study, two hundred and sixty-five (265) questionnaires were administered via hand-delivered and electronic mail to construction professionals in the Western Cape and Gauteng
provinces, South Africa. Sixty-two (62) questionnaires (23.39%) were duly completed, returned and analysed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Cronbach's alpha coefficient reliability test was subsequently conducted on scaled research questions to ensure reliability of the research questionnaire.
The findings revealed that the major factors contributing to the shortfall of construction workers’ performance include; missing details in architectural working drawings, the communication ability of site managers, site managers’ coordinating skills, the effect of strikes on construction operations, the planning ability of site managers, slow response of architects to drawing questions, slow response of structural engineers to drawing questions, construction skills of site supervisors and, finally, shortages of construction materials. Improved construction productivity is a product of construction labour efficiency and enables the achievement of construction project objectives. Therefore, an adequate implementation of the framework presented in this study will not only enhance construction labour efficiency and heighten construction productivity during building production process, but will also increase the satisfaction of construction stakeholder on Gauteng and Western Cape construction projects.
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Cook, Iain Murray. "Risk analysis and management systems in South African construction project management practices." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3469.
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Risk management (RM) should be seen as one of the most important functions in the South African built environment. Without the effective management of the risks associated with the industry, the noble vision of a sector that is efficient, profitable, and sustainable cannot be achieved. By embracing tried and tested policies that successfully mitigate risk, industry stakeholders will achieve many project successes, and will outlast any competitors that choose to ignore, or are ignorant of the fact, that the negative impact risk has on projects is inversely proportional to the level of RM employed. Construction Project Management (CPM) practices, realising that there are excellent business opportunities across South Africa’s borders, and faced with a competitive South African market, are engaging with developers and government entities involved in cross border projects in the hope of securing these potentially lucrative African projects. With this move into Africa comes increased uncertainty and risk for these CPM practices, and other project stakeholders. Similarly, CPM practices that have made the strategic decision to remain operational only within South Africa’s borders, are faced with a competitive and complex built environment and industry, made increasingly challenging by a weakening economy, exacerbated by industrial strikes, infrastructure deficiencies and a decrease in industry skill levels. This study reports on Project Managers’ (PMs’) perceptions of project failures and inefficiencies resulting from inadequate RM on projects, including the RM methodologies currently being employed. The study focused on perceptions of PMs who operate within South Africa’s borders, PMs that operate across border into other African countries, as well as PMs who operate exclusively within South Africa’s built environment framework. A study was undertaken incorporating qualitative methodologies via a normative survey. The survey was split into three main phases. Phase one employed the use of a pilot survey executed with the objective of further investigating the main sub-problems to gain more insight into the related issues and challenges. For the pilot survey, PMs were selected based on their engagement in CPM activities within South Africa as well as across South Africa’s borders into other African countries. Phase two of the main survey, with the sample stratum being the Association of Construction Project Managers (ACPM), was aimed at PMs within the ACPM who have engaged, or are engaging, in CPM activities both within South Africa’s borders as well as across South Africa’s borders into other African countries. Phase 3 of the main survey, with the sample stratum being the ACPM, was aimed at PMs within the ACPM who have engaged, or are engaging, in CPM activities within South Africa’s borders only and have not engaged in cross border activities. Survey findings identified the commercial sector and value of the projects undertaken by the practices, the level of risk associated with different client typologies, the link between inadequate RM and project inefficiency and failure, and the importance of RM on projects. Findings also identified that RM methodologies are employed by CPM practices, and that CPM practices generally endeavour to create a culture of risk awareness amongst employees. Further findings indicated that CPM practices may not always understand the risks associated with new industry sectors, regions or countries that they are considering operating within, and that that there is room for improvement regarding the effectiveness of current RM systems. Survey findings also indicated that risk is not always transferred to the correct project stakeholder most suited to managing the risk, and CPM practices are not always able to accurately quantify the costs associated with project risk. Furthermore, it was identified that CPM practices do not always undertaken risk assessments (RAs) at the correct project stage resulting in inadequate risk contingencies allowances, regular risk reviews are not always undertaken for projects, project pre-mortems are seen as valuable tools by CPM practices as a method to reduce future risk, and project post-mortems relative to ‘lessons learnt’ are not always undertaken. Conclusions outline the link between effective RM, project inefficiencies and project failure, as well as the increase or decrease in risk relative to ineffective or effective use of risk identification and management methodologies for time, cost, and quality factors respectively. Conclusions also outline the fact that although CPM practices generally understand the link between RM and project success, they are not always able to fully comprehend the risks associated with new industry sectors, regions or cross border countries. This indicates that without the adequate identification of risk, the RM process or steps that follow the qualitative risk identification process will have little or no value. This is indicative of the requirement for professional associations to consolidate risk data for industry activities with the aim of improving the level of RM industry wide. Recommendations highlight the importance of the compiling of sector specific risk registers, compiled by the South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) with registered member input, made available to all PMs via the SACPCMPs online database. Further recommendations include: the engendering, by senior management of CPM practices; a healthy ‘risk aware’ culture, by promoting RM practices aligned with best practice methodologies; the implementation of well balanced and formal RM systems throughout the CPM practice, with the aim of achieving effective RM without overburdening PMs with unnecessary documentation or ‘paperwork’; the attendance of risk conferences and workshops by all CPM practices, aimed at specifically identifying challenges that exist with RM and methods that can be employed to improve the status quo; the attendance of formal risk training courses, by all CPM practices, aimed at improving the knowledge base of PMs relative to effective RM, and the appointment of risk professionals, driven by the monetary value and risk levels of the project, to undertake the RM process and unburden PMs from the task, allowing PMs to concentrate on the other project knowledge areas.
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Ramjee, Shivani. "The construction of a price index for the South African Medical Scheme Industry." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/5709.
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A methodology is proposed for constructing a price index that reflects the change in the prices of the goods and services purchased by medical schemes in South Africa. The methodological choices were made taking cognisance of the unique characteristics of the South African medical scheme environment, both in terms of the factors influencing the mix of goods and services purchased by medical schemes, as well as the factors affecting price determination. An example of a pharmaceutical price index was constructed to illustrate the proposed methodology, the results of which are presented. Whilst the proposed methodology provides a base for creating a meaningful and useful medical scheme price index there is considerable further work that needs to be done to refine the methodology.
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Emuze, Fidelis Abumere. "The impact of construction supply chain management on value on projects." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1209.
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Much research work has assessed the construction process and discovered that the process is ineffective and besieged with problems. Analysis of these problems has shown that a major part of them are related to the state and workings of the supply chains. Prior research justifies that waste and problems in construction supply chains are extensively present and persistent. This anomaly may be ascribed to the nature of the industry. Horizontal integration that is common place in the construction industry tends to fragment the supply chain, resulting in an unstable production environment occasioned by high unpredictability, much rework, low profits and eventual low level of value creation in the process. Therefore, an increased level of integration of interfaces and processes has been canvassed. The purpose of supply chain management is to achieve the expected increased level of integration of the whole supply chain. Supply chain management is a concept that has flourished in the manufacturing industry through Just in Time production and logistics. Supply chain management represents an autonomous managerial tool, though still largely dominated by logistics. Supply chain management has long been advocated as a means of improving the performance of supply chains in construction. This research study reports on an investigation into the impact of supply chain management on value creation in the South African construction industry. The research discovered that collaborative working is already in the industry and contractors consider supply chain management important for project success. Here construction supply chains were approached from the relationship view point. All issues are encouraged to be viewed and resolved in the supply chain from the relationship perspective.
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Okorie, Victor Nnannaya. "Behaviour-based health and safety management in construction: a leadership-focused approach." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021034.
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The construction industry remains a pillar in the South African economy, generating employment and wealth. Nonetheless, the industry is reportedly bedevilled by a high rate of accidents and serious injuries that often lead to permanent deformation and fatalities among workers and the general public. These accidents and injuries manifest due to poor construction health and safety (H&S) performance that is often related to poor H&S leadership of the key project leaders involved in the construction business. Shortcomings pertain to client leadership in terms of involvement and commitment to H&S and project H&S related decisions of professionals (designers, project managers, quantity surveyors and engineers). They also pertain to contractor related aspects such as H&S management systems and leadership at all levels of management. In addition, contractors’ inadequacies of H&S management relative to workplace planning and materials related issues have continued to marginalise H&S performance in construction. The H&S leadership of key project leaders is very important in creating a culture of H&S in the workplace. This study examined the H&S management practices and leadership of the key project leaders that contribute to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. Presently, there is limited or no research in South African construction on how the H&S leadership of the key project leaders contributes to at-risk work practices or unsafe behaviour of workers. The methodology employed in the study included an extensive review of relevant literature, which enabled the field work to proceed unhindered. The quantitative survey and qualitative inquiry was conducted with the key construction participants in South African construction. Focus group discussions and interviews were used in a complementary manner. Accordingly, the sampling technique for the study comprised simple random and purposive sampling. The study revealed apparent poor leadership and lack of involvement and commitment to workers’ H&S by the key project leaders. Notably, there is statistical evidence of poor H&S management practices among contractors in terms of top management commitment to and involvement in project H&S. This statistical evidence includes poor H&S education and training of workers and lack of workers’ involvement and participation in H&S matters, which is the tenet of behaviour-based H&S anagement. The model of leadership influence on worker H&S behaviour developed in this research constitutes an innovative contribution to construction H&S performance improvement through a leadership-focused approach. The study has established a basic level of awareness and understanding among key project leaders in that their upstream decisions during the project planning and construction phases have significant influence on workers’ safe or unsafe behaviour or at-risk work practices. The study strongly advocates transparent leadership, ethical behaviour among clients in public and private sectors, designers’ critical H&S decisions, project managers’ and quantity surveyors’ commitment towards project H&S and contractors’ adoption and implementation of behaviour-based H&S management systems. The developed leadership influence model of worker H&S behaviour in the study provides a useful guide for the key project leaders to realise the desired H&S performance improvement in the South African construction industry.
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Larwood, Andrew John. "Cleaner production : promoting and achieving it in the South Australian foundry industry." Title page, table of contents and abstract only, 2000. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09ENV/09envl336.pdf.
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Bibliography: leaves 123-130. The literature search and the findings from the investigation have been used to provide recommendations for a sector specific cooperative approach using regulation, self-regulation, voluntary agreements, economic incentatives and educational/information strategies to promote and acheive cleaner production in the South Australian foundry industry.
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Duku, Leju. "Evaluating the optimal innovative cost control techniques used in the South African construction industry." Master's thesis, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, 2020. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/32604.
Full textAbstract:
The execution of construction projects commands a myriad of technological, human, organisational and natural resources. However, the construction and engineering undertaking of these projects are frequently overshadowed by economic difficulties, such as the high costs of construction materials, that have a negative impact on project costs. Cost overruns have been determined as a phenomenon continually plaguing the construction industry in both private and public sectors, and very few projects are completed within cost parameters. This research evaluated the barriers to the use of innovative cost control techniques during the construction phase, and determined the level of cost overruns on construction projects in South Africa; identified innovative cost control techniques used by construction firms on construction projects; established the optimal innovative cost control technique used in the South African construction industry; and uncovered the relationship between the level of use of innovative cost control techniques on construction projects and cost overrun. Questionnaires were the chosen instrument for data collection and were circulated via Survey Monkey. A total of 123 questionnaires were returned, and they provided the base for the computation of study results. Statistical tools employed in the study included percentages, mean item score (MIS), and frequency distributions. A scatter plot was used to distinguish whether there was a correlation between the cost performance of projects and level of innovativeness by establishing a line of best fit through the set of the two variables. A line of best fit in the positive direction indicates that increased levels of innovativeness improves the cost performance of projects, while a line of best fit in the negative direction indicates that increased levels of innovativeness does not enhance project performance. The relationship between the level of innovative cost control techniques usage in construction projects and cost overrun was determined to be negative. This led to the conclusion that construction professionals are limiting themselves and are not exploring alternative or innovative cost control techniques. They were focused on project efficiency and productivity rather than cost overruns. Innovative cost control techniques identified in the study were Earned Value Analysis (EVA), Last Planner System (LPS), 4D Scheduling, Fuzzy Project Scheduling, Integrated critical path and Line of Balance, and Reserve Analysis. Study findings determined that the critical contributors to cost overruns included tight project budgets, project complexity, a high frequency of change orders by clients and financial difficulties encountered by contractors. Perceived barriers to the implementation of innovative cost control techniques in projects by participants included a poor scope definition, a lack of training and technical skill of project personnel, poor understanding of cost analysis and variables involved in cost planning. It also emerged that projects cannot meet project objectives, and construction organisations are not making use of the right tools and techniques to monitor and control construction costs. The research findings have shown that professionals have limited knowledge of innovative cost control techniques. This also concludes that they are not taking advantage of the features of new innovative techniques to tackle complex projects. This, therefore, means that complex projects will continue to experience cost overruns. This study concludes that top management of construction organisations are not training their staff to embrace new technologies and innovation. To address the barriers to the use of innovative techniques, there should be increased investment on the part of construction organisations toward affording their workforce the relevant training, knowledge and technical skill required to implement the modern techniques for cost control identified in the report. The cidb should organise seminars and workshops on the usefulness and importance of innovative cost control techniques, and workers should embrace self-development and change. Government should implement policies on the use of innovative cost control techniques for their projects, and construction organisations should develop capacity in line with innovative cost control techniques.
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Mhlekwa, Gcobani Sydney. "Evaluating quality management on selected South African freight rail construction projects." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2019. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2866.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTech (Business Administration in Project Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2019.<br>This study focussed on the evaluation of quality management at one of the selected South African freight rail construction projects. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) was selected for its high rate of accidents and injuries that happen on daily basis which affect the company’s operations and profits. The study’s approach was to obtain as much as possible opinions from local and international experts on quality management in construction projects. The opinions were gathered through a number of official journals on the best practices for quality management, comparing all of these practices to that of TFR in order to conclude whether the need for improvement or the change in practicing quality is required. The mixed − method approach was employed, to gather more and accurate data. The strengths of qualitative research approach can make up for the weaknesses of the quantitative research approach, this was the reason why mixed − method was chosen. The targeted population of this study included the internal stakeholders such as quality assurance officers, project managers, project coordinators and project team members. This targeted population was able to provide the accurate information as they are directly involved in the execution of the projects in terms of quality management of the project. A questionnaire was developed and employed as a tool to gather data to satisfy the research questions. This study was a case study because it only focused on TFR Iron Ore line projects. The focus was that, within TFR Iron Ore line, only those who are affected directly by the above mentioned projects were interviewed. The study has revealed that the Total Quality Assurance measures are being ignored at TFR, such as unscheduled quality tours, quality audits, quality control routines, random sampling of errors and record seen defects, and quality monitoring throughout the project life cycle.
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Fredericks, Cameron. "HIV/AIDS-related stigma in the South African construction industry: the case of ESKOM." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/14131.
Full textAbstract:
The South African construction industry has not responded effectively to address the high HIV-prevalence rate within its workforce. The Western Cape construction industry is the least responsive. No formal studies have examined how the construction industry's unresponsiveness to the pandemic has impacted Eskom's capital construction projects. Central to the fight against the spread of the disease is voluntary testing and counselling (VCT). AIDS-related stigma and discrimination are impediments to VCT. The aim of this study is to explore how stigmatisation and discrimination of HIV/AIDS positive persons negatively impacts site-based HIV/AIDS intervention programmes implemented at Eskom construction sites. The three main objectives are: to determine the current attitude and views Koeberg employees have towards HIV/AIDS; to determine if the stigma of HIV/AIDS prevents Koeberg employees from accessing HIV intervention programmes offered at Koeberg; and to determine the percentage of Koeberg employees utilising the HIV intervention programme at Koeberg. A self-administered questionnaire gathered data from 296 site-based employees, mostly contract construction workers, at Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, located in Cape Town. The data were analysed using Pearson's product-moment correlation, the test for differences in means, the chi- square test for independence, and multiple regression analysis. These statistical analyses were conducted to determine relationships among 'demographic' variables (age, gender, ethnicity, employment type, marital status and education level) and 'cognitive ' and 'behavioural' factors ('lifestyle risk', 'condom non-compliance', 'substance use', 'HIV/AIDS knowledge', and 'attitudinal fear of testing') - to predict HIV/AIDS-related stigma. The results indicate that: (1) age predicts lifestyle risk, condom non-compliance and alcohol consumption - younger workers i.e., under 30 years, consume more alcohol , partake to a greater extent in riskier sexual affairs , but practice safer sex than older workers; (2) gender predicts lifestyle risk and alcohol use, and directly influences attitudinal fear of being tested for HIV – younger men, particularly contract construction workers, tend to be more fearful of being tested for HIV, lead riskier sexual lifestyles, and consume greater amounts of alcohol; (3) ethnicity predicts condom non- compliance and alcohol consumption – 'White', 'Indian' and 'Coloured' men are less likely to use condoms and consume more alcohol than 'Black' African men; and (4) HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudinal fear of testing predicts stigmatised views toward HIV/AIDS - those with lower levels of education and possessing poor knowledge about HIV/AIDS, coupled with high attitudinal fear of testing, hold highly stigmatised views towards HIV/AIDS persons. 'Coloured' employees living with HIV have higher levels of felt-stigma and enacted stigma than 'Black' African employees living with HIV. The Koeberg site-based HIV/AIDS intervention programme should increase its focus on communicating the benefits of being tested for HIV/AIDS, and encourage younger men, particularly contract construction workers, to undergo testing. Effort should also be focussed on reassuring employees about their confidentiality and dispel misinformation and myths associated with the disease. Finally, Koeberg senior management should pledge their support, influence and guide construction firms employed at Koeberg to utilise the Eskom HIV/AIDS intervention programme.
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Kajimo-Shakantu, Kahilu. "An investigation into the responses of the construction industry to preferential procurement in South Africa." Doctoral thesis, University of Cape Town, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/11321.
Full textAbstract:
Includes bibliographical references.<br>The aim of this research is to establish a base level understanding of the influence of preferential procurement policies on construction firms with a view to contributing to theory development. The fundamental premise of this thesis is that preferential procurement polices are not neutral, but have distributed consequences.
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Quantoi, Phoebus Llewellyn. "Assessing the health and safety management of SMME's in the South African construction industry." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/3842.
Full textAbstract:
The prosperity of small micro and medium enterprises (SMME’s) in the construction industry is vital for the improvement of the South African economy. Unfortunately, the poor safety record of this industry negatively affects the sustainability of SMME’s and augments the loss of human lives. Owners and managers of SMME’s in the construction industry are usually financially fragile and unaware of the direct and an indirect cost associated with injuries that may result in potential profit loss and ultimately, bankruptcy. The construction industry continues to lead with high levels of fatalities and injuries compared to other industrial sectors. High levels of non-compliance with health and safety legislation in the construction industry necessitate creative interventions to improve health and safety standards. The objective of the research was to establish to what extent SMME’s comply with health and safety in the construction industry. Research was done by means of a survey questionnaire and the findings concluded that government laws are appropriate however the enforcing of such law needs attention. Furthermore, most owners are aware of the required legislation but the competitive nature allude that “that shortcuts are taken”.
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Mabanjwa, Siyabonga. "The use and effectiveness of construction management as a building procurement system in the South African construction industry." Pretoria : [s.n.], 2003. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-08272003-104103/.
Full text
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Mbanjwa, Siyabonga. "The use and effectiveness of construction management as a building procurement system in the South African construction industry." Thesis, University of Pretoria, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/27570.
Full textAbstract:
Project objectives are no longer being determined in terms of time, cost and quality only. Other factors such as employment creation, transfer of skills, use of small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and community empowerment now play a role in determining project objectives and success. Is project management, applied with the traditional building procurement system the best method to achieve these unique project objectives ? Some have argued that construction management, as a building procurement system, could be the most suitable method to use in the South African situation considering the unique project objectives described above. This research proposed to determine whether the use of construction management, as a building procurement system, can improve the attainment of client objectives in the South African construction industry. Based on the problem statement, the following hypothesis was formulated: "The use of construction management as a building procurement system on construction projects with a strong focus on the empowerment of previously disadvantaged individuals (PDIs) and affirmable business enterprises (ABEs) leads to an improved attainment of project / client objectives." It was further broken down as follows: * The choice of building procurement system does influence project success or failure. * Construction management can improve the attainment of client objectives on certain projects. * Construction management in South Africa has not been widely used and understood hence may have failed in its use thus far. * Construction management can be applied successfully on certain projects by following international best practices. The problem was resolved firstly through a literature survey, followed by an empirical survey. Respondents targeted for the empirical survey were clients or developers and project managers based in the following provinces: Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal and the Western Cape. Literature reviewed indicates that this procurement system leads to cost savings and shorter project duration, thereby resulting in improved client satisfaction levels. Furthermore, it can also be of benefit as it allows affirmative construction to take place. This may be of particular interest to public sector clients. Construction management has been widely used in the United States of America and the United Kingdom. In certain instances, it achieved good results, whereas in other instances the results were disastrous. Authors such as Kweku et al (1987) argue that this is due to poor implementation. In the light of this, it is important to note that this method has its shortcomings and can be poorly implemented resulting in unsuccessful projects. Ensuring that "recipes of success" identified herein are applied, can go a long way to ensuring that the system is properly applied and that favourable results are achieved. In theory, therefore, construction management can lead to more satisfied clients as it can achieve better results in terms of their objectives, when properly implemented. Based on literature reviewed and the empirical survey findings, it is concluded that the hypothesis is proven. Based on the literature review, empirical survey and conclusions reached, It is recommended that: q Private sector and public sector clients (such as the National Department of Public Works), consider the use of construction management as a building procurement system on some of their future projects, especially projects with a strong empowerment component. q Clients select suitably qualified and experienced individuals (such as construction project managers) and/or organisations (such as established building contractors) to perform construction management services on their projects. q Existing best construction management practices are applied on construction management projects. q Further research be undertaken on, inter alia, the role of the construction manager and the project manager on construction management projects, the development of emerging contractors on construction management projects and the development of guidelines for the implementation of construction management projects in South Africa.<br>Thesis (MSc (Project management))--University of Pretoria, 2004.<br>Construction Economics<br>unrestricted
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Hefer, Andre le Roux. "The influence of project management service provision on role-players within the South African construction industry." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1008295.
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The legitimate existence of the Project Management Profession in the South African construction industry needs to relate to positive project influence on the industry roleplayers. This study assessed the perceived lack of recognition and acceptance of Project Management as a stand-alone profession relating to: · Appointments of Project Managers being questioned due to a perceived lack of influence and impact on project success. · Project Managers not being recognised as an integral part of the industry. · Project Management not being perceived as having a unique and defined function. Interviews were held with 23 industry role-players made up of clients, contractors and consultants. The interviews solicited input on the role-players’ perception and experience related to the influence of Project Management over the past 10 years, not only on a list of success criteria relative to their own role in the industry, but also their perception of the influence on the other defined role-player groups. Included in the interview questionnaire was also a range of general questions to refine the feedback and further test the hypotheses. The data were interpreted and analysed by comparing the feedback of the respondents as a combination and separately as groups. The results of the study indicate that: · Project Management could be seen as a legitimate part of the industry; · The industry role-players perceive Project Management as making an impact and having a growing influence on the industry; A specific but broad set of skills are required by Project Managers; · The Project Management function cannot be fulfilled by other consultants, but there are project related criteria which should be considered before making a final judgment. These criteria relate to project size and complexity; and · Project Management is currently perceived to be more related to a specific person’s skill than to a specific profession. The study’s aim was to influence and inform the views of industry role-players on the appointment of a Project Manager in the construction industry.
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Akinyede, Imisioluseyi Julius. "Framework for effective management of cost constraint on building project delivery in South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1063.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirement for the degree
Master of Technology (Construction Management)
In the Faculty of Engineering
2014<br>According to findings presented in literature, construction projects are restrained within budgeted cost. Hence, the operational system is challenged within prohibitive cost limits to deliver projects at a stipulated time and at a satisfactory quality. This has prompted the intention of establishing effective management of cost constraint on building project delivery in South Africa. Data for the main study were collected through observations, semi-structured and unstructured qualitative interviews and quantitative close-ended questionnaires administered to construction stakeholders working in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces, South Africa. Findings are that the following are factors that affect cost during building production process: additional works without contractual procedure, inadequate co-ordination of design phase and construction phase during production by project managers, financial mismanagement, frequent changes in design, cost of materials in the market, fluctuation of price of materials. Additional findings are proper monitoring and controlling at stages during production, procurement of competent contractors and subcontractors, involvement of experienced professionals in production, proper briefing by the client during production process, targeting quality during production, prompt decision taking during production, and the establishment of effective communication systems on site during production, frequent changes in building design by the client during production affect construction cost; frequent changes in building design during production cause rework; changes in building design during construction caused by errors and omissions detected affects quality of project delivered; and specification due to procurement of new materials during construction causes changes in building design, labour productivities, wrong planning for machine usage on site, late delivery of equipment during production and unanticipated increases in prices of building materials. Late delivery of materials also affects production process. Regular meetings on site will promote efficient productivities of human resources, team work on site during production, general progress reports on site during production, projects schedule/timetable for production and work programmes for site activities.
The study concluded by recommending that proper adoption of these findings by the South African construction stakeholders during production processes will enhance delivery of building projects at reduced construction resources, at the standard of quality expected, at the time stipulated, at the budgeted cost specified, and to the satisfaction of the client. Interest will be achieved as illustrated under each objective of the research study. This research recommends further investigation of the effects of building material supply management during production processes in the South African construction industry.
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Lefoka, Mochelo Mackson. "An evaluation of the contextual factors that affect labour productivity in the South African Construction Industry." Master's thesis, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, 2019. https://hdl.handle.net/11427/31686.
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Poor labour productivity is an endemic global problem in the construction industry. In the past two decades, it has been observed over the different sectors of the construction industry that the labour productivity expended on projects has reported a decline, particularly in the building and civil sectors. This research explores the variables that affect labour productivity on construction sites and whether the estimation practices used considers the various circumstances in which buildings and infrastructure are produced. Literature review aided in the identification of contextual factors classified in four categories that affect labour productivity on construction projects. These categories were; site environment factors, organisational factors, technical factors and social factors. These factors were used in the development and design of the questionnaire to analyse the impact of these factors on construction labour productivity. The population of the study comprised of directors, contracts managers, project and construction managers, quantity surveyors and estimators who are employees of construction firms listed in Grades 2-9 of the Construction Industry Development Board (cidb) Register of Contractors in South Africa. The study area covered nine provinces of South Africa. At the end of the survey period, 117 valid responses were received and analysed. The findings of the study revealed that at the pre-construction phase of a construction project, social factors, complexity of the project and organisational factors are not considered in the estimation practices and techniques. Results further revealed that four core factors that affect productivity of labour are; lack of experience amongst workers, delays in the wages of labourers, change orders from designers/consultants and the relationships between labourers and their supervisors. The study established a relationship between the contextual factors and labour productivity on construction projects. Motivation and training emerged as significant changes needed to improve labour productivity on projects. Based on these findings, the study concludes that labour productivity is impacted by contextual site factors such as lack of experience, delays in labour payment and that these are not considered by estimators at the project pre-construction phase. The study recommends that these site factors need to be considered during the preconstruction phase of a project in order to allow for their impact on labour productivity during construction. Furthermore, a benchmark and standard of what constitutes effective labour productivity needs to be developed on construction sites, especially one that is project specific and considering all the four categories of contextual factors and their probable impacts.
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Nene, Sinenhlanhla Sindisiwe. "Occupational health and safety and industrial relations in the South African construction industry : case studies of selected construction firms in Grahamstown." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1018663.
Full textAbstract:
The construction industry is one of the most dangerous industries in the world, with many workplace fatalities every day. The existence of legislation that governs Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is an intervention to ensure that all governments, employers and employees play their part in establishing and implementing policies that will help secure healthy and safe working environments. The study is qualitative and with the help of an interview guide, semistructured interviews were used to collect the data. The respondents were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Ten managers from ten (five small, five large) construction firms, two employees from each firm, and the OHS inspector from the Department of Labour in Grahamstown were interviewed. Having explored management’s practices, communication methods, training and distribution of information, employee representation and participation, and industrial relations, several conclusions were reached. During the study it was found that there are a number of obstacles that are hampering effective OHS in the construction industry. Some of these include; management’s lack of commitment to a participatory approach in OHS decision-making, limited resources to invest adequately in OHS, and the lack of sufficient trade union involvement. In addition, we know very little about OHS in the construction industry, and the mere existence of OHS legislation does not help reduce the risks associated with construction work, especially when there is a shortage of skilled personnel to enforce the legislation and regulations.
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Pillay, Poobalan. "An empirical exploration of supply chain constraints facing the construction industry in South Africa." Thesis, Vaal University of Technology, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10352/382.
Full textAbstract:
The South African Construction Industry is one of the largest contributors to the gross domestic product of the country as well as to employment. It has, however, been experiencing significant challenges due to multifaceted factors. The main objective of this research was to identify the supply chain management constraints within the South African Construction Industry and how these can be overcome. This study is by nature descriptive and exploratory and contains qualitative elements. The problems were identified through a literature review, focused group discussions and interviews with major construction companies in South Africa.
The findings also indicate that the main supply chain management constraints are to a greater extent internal and typical of supply chain methodologies and approaches. These constraints are among others the lack of coordination, collaboration and commitment between suppliers and clients within the supply chain, poor leadership in key areas of systems, design problems (many changes and inconsistent information), deficient internal and external communication and information transfer, inadequate management within the supply chain, mainly poor planning and control just to mention a few.
A model based on supply chain system management as well as the Theory Of Constraints (TOC) has been developed that can be a useful tool to address the constraints in the construction sector. Originating from the study are applicable recommendations for the South African construction industry supply chains, covering key themes that have been articulated in the study, particularly benchmarking to the theory of constrains. Such recommendations include further research core components of supply chain such as, collaborations, logistics and how each of system components can be linked to performance of the supply chain management system.
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Sidloyi, Xabiso. "Manufacturing as a reference for rethinking construction design management." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/766.
Full textAbstract:
Design changes due to lack of constructability, cost overruns, delays and dissatisfied clients are but a few problems experienced in construction due to poor management of the design processes. Increased problems, challenges, demands and continuous criticism of the architectural profession has led to increased demand for research into the improvement of design processes. The aims of this research were to determine the adequacy of design management processes used by Eastern Cape (EC) architectural companies and compare these with the design management processes used in manufacturing in order to establish practices, theories, principles, technologies and deliverables that can be transferred from the manufacturing into the construction to improve efficiency of architectural design management. The quantitative research approach was implemented for this research, the questionnaire was designed to acquire primary, factual and attitudinal data from EC architectural companies and secondary data were acquired through a literature review. The results revealed that design management processes, continuous improvement philosophies, lean principles, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) used by EC architectural companies are not similar to those used in manufacturing. Therefore EC architectural companies could increase their efficiency by adopting some of the design management processes, ICT, continuous improvement philosophies and lean principles originating from the manufacturing industry.
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Kruger, I. J. "Project management delays : project management delays with specific reference to the building and construction industry of the Western Cape." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2000. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/51888.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2000.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study is to investigate reasons for delays and
disruptions in project management, with specific reference to the
building and construction industries of the Western Cape. The reason
for the study can be posed in the form of a question, "Why, even
though the construction and building industry possess the skills of
highly competent people do a substantial percentage of projects still
experience significant delays and disruptions often leading to
financial and program difficulties?"
The study can point to certain problem areas in the building and civil
industries that might need to be addressed in order to make the
industry more manageable and even to get the industry better aligned
with the rapid changing business environment. It is not unrealistic to
make the statement that a fast developing industry like the
Information Technology industry will have a huge influence on the
manner in which building and civil projects will be managed in the
future.
Electronic Networking Technology (ENT) is a new and very powerful
tool in the discipline of project management. It is clear from the study
that ENT is not widely used in the building and construction
industries. The cellphone is probably the piece of electronical
equipment that has had the biggest impact on the way projects are
managed in the past couple of years. By far the biggest form of communication in a project is orally informal. Already cellphones are
being integrated with ENT and this will make managing from site or
while on the move even easier.
The use of ENT appears to be limited to e-mail messages. ENT is not
an accepted project management tool in the industries yet. It will take
a good couple of years before this is entrenched, accepted and
widely used in construction project management. It is the author's
opinion that ENT will be brought into the industries, as the newly
qualified construction project managers move upward through the
ranks.
It is also clear from the study that the role-players in the industry are
very aware of a commercial division in the industries. On the one side
of the division is the clients and the consultants and on the other
side, the main contractors, sub-contractors and suppliers. This divide
is perceived as an unhealthy divide and all parties would like to see it
narrowed or completely removed.
Clients, consultants, contractors and suppliers need to work more
closely together to remove this commercial division present in the
industry. This would require a whole paradigm shift.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die doel van hierdie mini-werkstuk is om die redes vir vertragings en
versteurings in projekbestuur te ondersoek, met spesifieke verwysing
na die konstruksie- en boubedryf in die Wes Kaap. Die rede vir die
studie kan in die vorm van 'n vraag gestel word, "Waarom, alhoewel
die konstruksie- en boubedryf beskik oor die vaardighede van hoogs
bevoegde persone, is daar nog steeds 'n substantiële hoeveelheid
vertragings en versteurings in projekte wat dikwels finansiële and
tydsverloop probleme tot gevolg het?"
Die studie sal poog om sekere probleem areas in die konstruksie- en
boubedryf uit te wys, wat indien aangespreek sou word, die
konstruksie en boubedryf beter sal sinkroniseer met die snel
veranderende besigheids omgewing waarbinne die bedrywe
funksioneer. Dit is nie vergesog om die stelling te maak dat 'n vinnig
ontwikkelende industrie soos die Informasie Tegnolgie industrie 'n
enorme invloed sal hê op die manier waarop konstruksie- en
bouprojekte in die toekoms bestuur sal word nie.
Elektroniese Netwerk Tegnologie (ENT) is 'n relatief nuwe en kragtige
hulpbron in die disipline van projekbestuur. Dit was duidelik vanuit
die studie dat ENT nog nie intensief in die konstruksie- en boubedryf
gebruik word nie. Die selfoon is waarskynlik die elektroniese
apparaat wat die grootste impak op projekbestuur gehad het die
afgelope paar jaar. Die oorgrootte meerderheid van kommunikasie in projekbestuur word mondelings informeel gedoen. Selfone word
alreeds geintegreer met ENT deur WAP (Wireless Application
Protocol) tegnologie. Dit sal projekbestuur vanaf die terrein of op die
pad aansienlik vergemaklik.
Die gebruik van ENT bleik beperk te wees tot e-pos boodskappe. ENT
is hoegenaamd nog nie 'n ten volle benutte hulpbron in die
konstruksie- en bou bedryf nie. Dit sal nog 'n hele paar jaar neem
voordat ENT 'n behoorlik ingeburgerde hulpbron in die konstruksie en
boubedryf is. Dit is die skrywer se opinie dat ENT in die
konstruksie en boubedryf ingefaseer sal word soos die nuwe jong
konstruksie- en boubedryf projekbestuurders opwaarts deur die
bedryf beweeg.
Dit is ook duidelik vanuit die studie dat daar 'n duidelike kommersiële
skeiding in die konstruksie- en boubedryf teenwoordig is. Aan die een
kant van die skeiding het ons die kliënt en die konsultant en aan die
ander kant van die skeiding het ons die kontrakteur, sub-kontrakteur,
vervaardiger en verskaffer. Die skeiding dra by tot vertragings en
versteurings van projekte. Die skeiding word beskou as 'n ongesonde
skeiding en daar moet gepoog word om die skeiding te vernou of te
verwyder. Kliënte, konsultante, kontrakteurs, vervaardigers en verskaffers moet
nouer saamwerk om die skeiding te vernou of te verwyder. 'n
Paradigma-skuif in die hele bedryf sal hiervoor nodig wees.
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Ludidi, Vathiswa Lungelwa. "The impact of culture on the successful implementation of quality management systems." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1214.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTech (Quality)--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2009<br>Irrespective of the nature of organisations, they all face a certain amount of uncertainty and risk. In order to maintain resilience, competitiveness and performance, organisations must have a system in place to manage the risks associated to their organisations. The challenge is to determine how much risk and uncertainty is acceptable, and how to cost effectively manage the risk and uncertainty while meeting the organisation‟s strategic and operational objectives. For many large organisations, quality or so called „customer perceived quality‟, has become an issue of survival. Furthermore, increased competitiveness is necessary in order to become the obvious choice for the customer.
Corporations must have long term goals and Quality Management Systems serve as organised mechanisms to manage quality, effectiveness and competitiveness involving every one at all levels of the organisation. An understanding of culture in organisations can thus offer insight into individual and group behaviour, and leadership. Furthermore, it can help to explain not just „what‟ happens in an organisation, but „why‟ it happens. Companies view culture as something to be influenced to achieve organisational goals of productivity and profitability. Attempts to change the culture of an organization, may meet with varied levels of success.
The emphasis on quality building products, have been the focus of the construction industry in South Africa. As a supplier of extruded aluminium profiles to the building industry, Hulamin Extrusions is also faced with typical challenges representative of the industry and as a result, the following aspects would be subjected to research scrutiny:
Introduction of a Quality Management System.
The challenges of organisational culture.
The need for change management.
Facilitating the implementation of the system.
Continuous Improvement.
The researcher anticipates finding ways to improve organisational culture, which in turn would facilitate quality improvement within the organisation.
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Chapano, Munodani. "The impact of high performance work practices on project performance in selected construction companies in Cape Town, South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2532.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTech (Business Administration))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017.<br>The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of four High Performance Work Practices (HPWPs) on project performance in selected construction companies in Cape Town, South Africa. The four HPWPs comprised: recruitment and selection (RS); performance appraisal (PA); training and development (TD); and compensation system (CS). The study employed a positivist philosophy utilizing the survey method to collect data from 70 employees who were drawn from a select group of multi-project construction companies in Cape Town, South Africa. The respondents comprised employees who worked as project team members and line staff/ administrative staff. Non-probability sampling procedure in the form of convenience sampling technique was used for the selection of five (5) construction organisations in Cape Town, South Africa. Probability sampling procedure in the form of stratified sampling technique was employed in the selection of the respondents to complete the questionnaire.Collected data was captured and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. The main research question of the study was: What is the relationship between the four HPWPs and project performance? The results indicate that CS has a weak positive relationship with project performance, whereas TD, PA and RS have weak negative relationships with project performance. It also emerged that there are other factors that significantly affect project performance other than the HPWPs investigated.The results of this study are significant because they provide a unique view of the work environment that has been insufficiently examined. Also, very few studies have focused on the above four universal HPWPs, which this study was earmarked for. The results that are obtained from this study significantly add to the overall body of knowledge pertaining to theories and their application in HRM, project performance and multi-project environments issues.
29
Simpeh, Eric Kwame. "An analysis of the causes and impact of rework in construction projects." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1046.
Full textAbstract:
A dissertation presented to the Higher Degrees Committee of the Cape
Peninsula University of Technology in fulfilment of the requirements
for the degree of Master of Technology: Construction Management, 2012<br>This study investigated the underlying causes of rework in construction projects and the
impact on overall project performance so that effective containment and reduction
strategies can be developed. The objectives of the study were as follows: (i) to
determine the influence different project types have on the causes of rework in
construction projects; (ii) to determine the impact of rework on organisational and project
performance; (iii) to determine the influence various project types have on rework costs
(direct and indirect) in construction projects; (iv) to determine the influence various
procurement methods have on total rework costs in construction projects; (v) to design
and develop rework reduction and containment strategies. The research was motivated
by several international and local studies demonstrating a lack of concern for the root
causes of rework and the potential impact on cost, overall project performance, and the
‘value-addedness’ to the completed project.
The research approach adopted included an exploratory and main study targeting
purposively selected construction professionals and stakeholders in the Cape Peninsula
metropolitan area of the Western Cape Province. The exploratory case study was
carried out at the initial stage of the study to gain more insight into the causes and
impact of rework on overall project performance. Specifically, data was collected by
means of observation of physical works, semi-structured interviews with relevant parties
directly involved in site operation and the analysis of site instruction record documents.
The main study obtained data from 78 construction professionals and stakeholders via
questionnaire survey, a survey conducted among design consultants and contractors in
the general building category ranging from grade 3 to 9 who are registered with
Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). Descriptive, inferential statistics and
probability distribution functions were used to analyse the data.
The findings revealed that changes initiated by the client, changes initiated by the design
team due to errors and omissions, poor coordination, and finally, integration among the
design team were the major contributing factors to rework. Moreover, non-compliance
with specifications, setting-out errors, low labour skills, and emphasis on time and cost
aggravated the occurrence of rework on site. The study revealed that while there is no
significant difference between the causes of rework and various project types, rework
can and often does make a significant contribution to any project’s cost overrun. The
total mean cost of rework as a percentage of the original contract value for new build
project and refurbishment/renovation projects was 4.89% and 6.28% respectively.
However, rework costs do not differ relative to project type or procurement method.
Furthermore, the study revealed that cost overruns, time overruns and design team
dissatisfaction all impacted on project performance. The findings indicate that designrelated
rework can be minimised by implementing the following strategies: team building,
involvement of subcontractors and suppliers, and design for construction. Moreover,
involvement of subcontractors during construction, and the implementation of quality
control and site quality management systems could also lead to reduction in rework
during the construction phase. Furthermore, the probabilistic analysis of rework
occurrence was determined in the projects selected; this analysis predicts the
occurrence of rework so that a quantitative risk assessment could be undertaken prior to
the commencement of construction.
The research concludes by recommending that design and construction firms must
develop organisational measurement systems for recording rework occurrence and its
associated costs. It is by determining the frequency and costs of rework that effective
strategies for its containment and reduction can be identified.
30
Mbambe, Putumani. "Construction small and medium enterprise development." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/11681.
Full textAbstract:
The objective of this treatise study was to determine the leading causes which limit the development of SMME contractors, to ascertain the accessibility of SMME incubators available to support SMME development and to identify the cause of poor management performance by SMME contractors based in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality. A qualitative method was adopted for this study. The primary data was collected using a structured interview guide which incorporated the sub problems and the research questions. The salient findings of this study are: SMME contractors are unaware of the available business information and government support programmes designed to assist them; SMME contractors do not receive capital from banks when they don‟t have collateral; Desperation to secure projects among SMME contractors is the leading cause for under-pricing; SMME contractors are still paid later than the 30 day period for completed work; SMME owners who had started their construction companies lacked training and do not have the relevant experience and knowledge required to manage a construction company. In summary the study concluded that SMME who have access to capital have high growth prospects than those that have not. Accessibility to information and awareness of available opportunities remains significant for the growth of SMMEs. Construction related knowledge and training for SMME owners contributes vastly to the success of SMME companies. The study recommended that; Government needs to promote the accessibility of SMME incubators and ensure institutions designed to assist SMMEs with finance are accessible; The effectiveness of current development programs for small enterprises and skills development programs should be reviewed; MMBM should setup a mentoring program to help train SMME contractors theoretically and practically; NMBM local government should promote women to own SMMEs in order to close the gap of inequality in the built environment; Banks must work with government institutions to ensure that they are able to fund SMMEs.
31
Terblanche, Johan Christiaan. "Construction and infrastructure development in local economic development : a Southern Cape perspective." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/21998.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2007.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: During the past decade the government of South Africa has launched various initiatives
to stimulate the economy in general, but more specifically to economically and socially
empower previously disadvantaged communities. Initially these initiatives have been
very broadly defined, but are increasingly fitting in with the concept of Local Economic
Development (LED). The concept of LED is not new; in fact, research has shown that
LED initiatives have been successfully implemented in various countries in the world
with needs and problems very similar to those of South Africa.
This study focuses on the Eden District Municipality in the Western Cape province of
South Africa and more specifically on the relation between LED and the construction
industry. To answer some relevant questions relating to this topic, a questionnaire has
been distributed to the agents of LED in the major municipalities of the district. The
survey was divided into four main sections, which dealt with issues relating to both the
construction industry and local economic development.
The responses in general reflected what could be observed in practice. Due to the
current relatively high economic growth in South Africa the regional economies also
experience good economic growth. Focusing on the issue of Local Economic
Development, it is important to note that the economy of the Eden District is driven by
the tourism and public services sectors. Taking the cue from the survey responses, the
deduction has therefore been made that the construction industry, consisting of the
building and infrastructure subsectors, is driven by the demand for housing and public
services. The construction industry was therefore not a driver of economic
development, but more a 'secondary' industry, that would benefit from sustainable
growth and development in the primary economic sectors.
Therefore it is important that managers and agents of local economic development
should consider the issue of sustainability when deciding on empowerment and
development initiatives. Sustainable development can only be achieved when
development initiatives are focused on sectors of the local economy that are the
'primary' industries in the region, and therefore less susceptible to fluctuations in the
global and South African economy.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Gedurende die laaste 12 jaar het die regering van Suid Afrika verskeie inisiatiewe van
stapel gestuur met die doel om die ekonomie te stimuleer, en meer spesifiek om voorheen
benadeelde gemeenskappe en individue op maatskaplike en ekonomiese gebied te
bemagtig. Aanvanklik was hierdie inisiatiewe slegs breedweg gedefinieer, maar algaande
het dit in meer doelgerigte konsepte ontwikkel, waaronder die konsep van Plaaslike
Ekonomiese Ontwikkeling (PEO). Hierdie konsep is egter nie nuut nie, en 'n kort
literatuurstudie het getoon dat PEO-inisiatiewe reeds met sukses geimplementeer is in
verskeie lande met behoeftes en probleme baie soortgelyk aan die van Suid Afrika.
Hierdie studie fokus op die Eden Distriksmunisipaliteit in die Wes-Kaap provinsie van Suid
Afrika en meer spesifiek op die verband tussen PEG en die konstruksie-industrie. Ten
einde sekere relevante vrae te beantwoord, is 'n vraelys aan die verskeie rolspelers in PEG
in die groter Munisipaliteite in die distrik gestuur. Die vraelys het uit vier dele bestaan wat
elk oor kwessies van beide konstruksie en plaaslike ontwikkeling gehandel het.
Die terugvoer van die vraelyste bevestig dat die ekonomiee van die onderskeie provinsies
en streke dieselfde positiewe groei ondervind as die landsekonomie in die algemeen. Indien
meer spesifiek op die konsep van PEG gefokus word, dan word dit gou duidelik dat die
ekonomie van die Eden Distrik hoofsaaklik deur die toerisme- en openbare dienste sektore
gedryf word. Hierdie feit, sowel as die antwoorde op die vraelyste, het gelei tot die
gevolgtrekking dat die konstruksie-industrie, wat uit die bou- en infrastruktuur subsektore
bestaan, hoofsaaklik deur die vraag na behuising en publieke dienste gedryf word. Die
konstruksie-industrie is dus nie self 'n drywer van ekonomiese ontwikkeling nie, maar in
werklikheid 'n 'sekondere' industrie wat baat vind by volhoubare groei en ontwikkeling in die
primere ekonomiese sektore.
Dit is dus noodsaaklik dat bestuurders en agente van PEG die konsep van volhoubaarheid
deeglik oorweeg wanneer daar oor bemagtigings- en ontwikkelings-inisiatiewe besin word.
Volhoubare ontwikkeling kan slegs suksesvol geimplementeer word wanneer ontwikkelingsinisiatiewe
op die primere industriee in 'n streek gefokus word wat in die algemeen minder
blootgestel is aan die sikliese beweging van die Suid-Afrikaanse en globale ekonomiee.
32
Bolumole, Iyiola. "Contract procurement strategies for project delivery towards enhancement of housing sustainability in South Africa." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/2636.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTech (Construction Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2017.<br>The supply of housing products that is durable, obtained at optimum cost and available within the shortest time possible describes the term sustainable housing. Findings derived from the reviewed literature concerning the ever-increasing quest of construction clients for ‘best value for money’ on construction projects brought about the emergence of alternative contract procurement strategies. Essentially, literature revealed that it is vital to adopt an appropriate contract procurement strategy, one that best addresses particular project needs and objectives, as the adoption of an inappropriate procurement system would result in excessive project cost and time overrun, low project quality standards and the dissatisfaction of involved construction stakeholders.
The quest for the supply of sustainable housing in the Western Cape, South Africa, prompted the need to establish an effective contract procurement strategy for housing project delivery. Noteworthy, this study identified five (5) objectives directed towards establishing an effective contract procurement strategy to enhance sustainable housing delivery: 1) the first objective examined the effectiveness of contract procurement strategies used for housing projects; 2) the second objective identified the factors influencing the selection of a suitable contract procurement strategy for housing projects; 3) the third objective analysed the influence of contract procurement strategies on project cost, time and quality; 4) the fourth objective examined the benefits and shortfalls associated with various contract procurement strategies on housing project resources – construction materials, machinery and manpower; 5) and the last objective was to establish the contract procurement strategy that is most effective for the delivery of sustainable housing.
This research adopted a mixed methodological approach involving the administration of close-ended quantitative questionnaires submitted to construction professionals and stakeholders and semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted with construction site managers and supervisors. SPSS version 24 software was used to analyse the quantitative data elicited, and “content analysis” was used to analyse the information obtained through the qualitative interviews. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient reliability test was conducted on scaled research questions to ensure the reliability of the research questionnaire.
The research findings revealed that the traditional and the design and build contract procurement approaches are cost, time and quality effective and therefore satisfactory, while the traditional contract procurement system is also effective regarding construction stakeholder satisfaction. The research identified that the significant factors influencing the selection of a contract procurement strategy include delay and mistakes in producing design documents; client inability to brief and make timely decisions; project type, nature, scope and complexity; lack of communication and feedback; lack of discipline among construction workers; and finally, lack of availability of construction materials.
The study concluded that thorough consideration of these findings by construction stakeholders within the construction industry will enhance the delivery of affordable, sustainable housing. The research study recommends, among other issues, the comparison of effectiveness of contract procurement strategies on project performance on a site-by-site basis, through work study and other available strategies, to further enhance sustainable housing delivery in the South African construction industry.
33
Howell, David Evan. "Aspects of general conditions of contract which give rise to dispute." Thesis, Cape Technikon, 1991. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1026.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis ( Masters Diploma(Civil Engineering))--Cape Technikon, Cape Town, 1991<br>The incidence of disputes has long frustrated effective management and
completion of Construction Contracts. Very little material is available on the
causes of disputes and how the respective General Conditions of Contract used
in this country handle circumstances relating to these areas of dispute.
Causes of dispute can be divided into two categories, namely Primary Causes
and Secondary Causes. The Primary Causes are Time, Cost and Quality and the
Secondary Causes are Risk. Variations and Alterations, Delays, Claims, Adverse
Physical Conditions, Extensions of Time and Payment. All the secondary
causes of dispute are risk related and a consideration of risk is therefore of
utmost importance with regard to avoidance of disputes.
To avoid disputes. risk has to be fairly allocated amongst the parties involved
in the Contract. Before this can be done, however, risk first has to be
identified and an attempt has to be made to reduce it. For a long time General
Conditions of Contract have been used in this country which have been closely
allied to British General Conditions. The General Conditions of Contract (1982)
(Blue Book) is very closely allied to the I.CR General Conditions of Contract (4th
edition). The latter contract was revised in 1979 and was generally
considered to be more favourable toward the Contractor. It has become
known as the LCE. General COnditions of Contract (5th edition). Both the
General Conditions of Contract (1982) and the ESKOM General Conditions of
Contract have recently been reVised, and on comparison of the clauses relating
specifically to the major causes of disputes mentioned preViously, were found
to be more biased in favour of the Employer and more closely allied to the
C.S.R.A. General Conditions of Contract 1986, also widely used in South Africa
The major reason for having drawn this conclusion is that in the case of GC C
'90 and ESKOM '90, all claims have to be made in accordance with a general
claims clause which involves a procedure which subjects the Contractor to
unfair requirements and allocates risk unfairly on him. The General
Conditions of Contract 1990 do, however, represent improvements in certain
respects, namely with respect to clauses relating to Care of Works, Excepted
Risks, Valuation of Variations, Monthly Payments, Time of Payments and
Correction or Withholding of Certificates.
No set of General Conditions can provide a completely equitable situation and
each has its pros and cons. This thesis should provide an easy reference as to
which are the major causes of disputes and as to how the respective General
Conditions of Contract in this country handle the circumstances relating to
these areas of dispute.
It will also put forward recommendations on how disputes can be avoided and
how certain clauses of the relevant documents can be improved.
34
Moore, Johannes. "Impact of the traditional tender procurement system on the public sector projects within the South African construction industry." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/97350.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2015.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Expenditure on South African public sector projects is vital to infrastructure development and
creating employment opportunities in the country. The submission of tenders by contractors is the
traditional procurement method utilised in awarding contracts. The traditional tender procurement
method is not only costly, but the lowest-bid method does not ensure that the eventual project at
completion is the most cost effective.
Although regulatory frameworks are in place to ensure that public sector projects are awarded to
suitable contractors, there are numerous examples of public sector projects that have been
awarded to incompetent contractors.
The traditional tender procurement method is non-collaborative in its composition, as the
contractors executing the work are not part of the design team. Furthermore, industry stakeholders’
perceptions influence procurement method preferences.
This research project investigates whether the tender procurement method is best suited to meet
the South African public sector’s requirements and achieve infrastructural development so
desperately required, or whether it needs to be replaced in its entirety or adapted.
35
Fester, Ferdinand Cedric. "An investigation into experiential learning experience of South Africa construction management students at universities of technology." Thesis, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11838/1051.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (MTech (Construction Management))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2005.<br>Cooperative education is practiced in many fields of industry. The South
African construction industry has shown a preference for cooperative construction
management education. Cooperative construction management education is practiced
worldwide, but the majority of these programmes do not have compulsory credit
bearing experiential learning as part of its programmes. This study examined the
experiential leaning experience as well as the relevance and adequacy of preparation
of subject areas taught in UT construction management programmes from the
perspective of all the stakeholders. The study had four main objectives namely (I) To
measure the extent of the perceived relevance by industry stakeholders, students and
academics of the topics and content of construction management programmes at UT;
(2) To establish the level of inadequacy, as perceived by industry stakeholders and
academic staff of the preparation of UT construction management graduates to
perform construction management functions: (3) To determine the level of
dissatisfaction, if it existed with the experiential learning of construction management
students; and (4) To establish the preparedness of construction industry stakeholders
to mentor construction management experiential learning students; and to use the
findings of the study to inform development of construction management
programmes.
Literature was reviewed relative to experiential learning and its general and
specific application to construction management education. Self- administered
questionnaires were completed by I" year as well as senior students registered for the
National Diploma: Building as well as the B. Tech. degrees in Construction
Management and Quantity Surveying.
The study suggests that although the experiential learning experience IS
relevant and generally well accepted by all role-players, there is a mismatch between
the needs of industry and what is being produced by the UT. The topics that form the
programme are relevant, but a level of dissatisfaction exists with the preparation of
construction management graduates to perform construction management functions
do exist.
36
Ramokolo, Bruce Sabelo Mpumelelo. "The capacity of emerging civil engineering construction contractors." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/873.
Full textAbstract:
Construction management competencies are essential to realise sound practices among and to realise optimum performance by, inter alia, emerging civil engineering contractors. Such competencies enable a clear focus on the business of construction and the management of projects, with increased efficiency and reduced costs as a benefit. The objective of the MSc (Built Environment) treatise study were to determine the current practices and performance of emerging civil engineering construction contractors operating in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole. The descriptive method was adopted in the empirical study. The salient findings of the study are: most of the emerging civil engineering construction contracting organisations lack construction management competencies; construction resources are inappropriately managed leading to construction failures; most of the emerging civil engineering construction contracting organisations lack adequate supervision resulting to poor workmanship; there is a shortage of skilled labour amongst emerging civil engineering construction contractors; procurement processes are inappropriate leading to under capacitated emerging civil engineering construction contracting organisations being awarded contracts; most emerging civil engineering construction contracting organisations lack the requisite aptitude for construction; there is a lack of capacity at all management levels of emerging civil engineering construction organisations in managing the business of construction and that of projects; the nine functions of organisations are not comprehensively represented, and self-ratings indicate inadequacy relative to the management function of control, and relative to certain activities of the organising function. Conclusions include that emerging civil engineering construction contracting organisations need to be comprised of technical teams that possess adequate competencies and that use the construction technology to its full use enabling their organisations to stay abreast of their competitors. Recommendations that can contribute towards improving the status quo include: formal civil engineering and construction management education, resources must be present and training should be promoted throughout the industry at all levels of management to ensure proper supervision and correct use of adequately trained labour, skilled or semi-skilled, incapacitated emerging civil engineering construction contractors should be awarded contracts through appropriately and structured procurement procedures, adequate aptitude in construction should be promoted and enhanced in order to realise conceptualisation and visualisation capabilities, comply with legislation, maintain records and communicate using state of the art technology, optimally manage the finances, have the requisite resources and undertake the work efficiently, interact with the respective publics, and market the organisation to ensure sustainability thereof.
37
Greyling, Een Lange. "A systems approach to project implementation within the public sector towards formulating a framework for project evaluation." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1021223.
Full textAbstract:
The procurement process, from the demand formulation to the final delivery of a public building to the end-user, is defined by the government in terms of procedures and policies to be followed, which is based to be ineffective and inefficient where the process as a whole from a client-value perpective, is flawed. Presently, the National Department of Public Works(NDPW) as a governmental administration is deemed to be a controlling institution and cost centre rather than a service provider. This mind-set is reflected by the inability of government project implementing agencies such as the NDPW to deliver projects successfully in terms of cost, time, and quality whilst failing to meet the government's socio economic objectives to create employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and transfer skills to the previously disadvantaged through black economic empowerment (BEE) initiatives. Client satisfaction has widely been recognised by researchers as one of the key challenges for quality improvement in the construction industry. It is a vital factor in the development and management of the construction process, as well in the creation of efficient organisation-client relationship. In addition, client satisfaction is deemed to be a catalyst for client retention which is a success strategy for any organisation. This thesis is primarily concerned with project performance and service delivery by the NDPW as a government project implementing agency that involves an integrated approach that considers the entire supply chain of a construction project. The success or failure of a project is is not the effect of a single variable, or factor, but a set of variables interacting with each other to produce the final result. An extensive review of related literature that entails the analysis of publications related to the projectimplementation and construction project management realm was deemed necessary to formulate a clear understanding of the complexities of implementing projjects within the public sector. The use of systems thinking as the nucleus of the multi-methodological approach to this research was to assist in ascertaining the primary causes of the problem situation and to clarify the process of project implementation as a sub-system within the greater system of the construction industry. The success of projects depends as much on the client as it does on the implementing agencies, project managers (PMs), consultants, contractors and the suppliers of materials.
38
Hund, Peter J. "A review of construction work sampling methods and an investigation into their use in South Africa." Bachelor's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1987. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/26617.
Full textAbstract:
Work sampling had its origin in industrial engineering; however, its use in construction has increased greatly during the 1970's and 1980's. Research would suggest that most of the innovation in this field is taking place in the United States. The basic methods of Work Sampling have been developed to suit the peculiarities of the construction site as opposed to the production line or factory where it was first used. The objectives of this report are as follows: 1. To review the existing methods of Construction Work Sampling as well as discuss further aspects and problems which should be considered when undertaking a Work Sampling study. 2. To compare Construction Work Sampling with other methods of measuring productivity. 3. To evaluate by means of a case study the ease of applicability of the sampling methods to a South African construction site, and at the same time to identify differences between the description of the methods in theory and their use in practice. 4. To establish by means of a questionnaire the extent to which Construction Work Sampling methods are already in use in South Africa as well as other related information. Information for this report was obtained from journals, manuals, text books, interviews, and the case study and questionnaires mentioned.
39
Schreuder, F. A. "An investigation into global distribution systems in the crop protection industry and the development of distribution system managment model for particular application in South Africa and Australia." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/21185.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (PhD)--Stellenbosch University, 2002.<br>ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The traditional ways in which manufacturers of crop protection products exercised
control over distribution systems have diminished in their impact. Control was based on
quality products, the power of the brand, an installed customer base and a broad
portfolio of mostly patented products. Manufacturers of crop protection products need to
review the manner in which these products are marketed, which distribution system
management models are to be used, and the importance that is placed on distribution
system management in the marketing mix.
The primary aim of this study was defined as: "The development of appropriate
distribution system management models for application in South Africa and Australia~.
The secondary aim was defined as: "Establishing the key factors which determine the
relationship between manufacturers and distributorsn
.
The dominant economic characteristics of the global crop protection industry are
deemed to consist of a global market valued at US $28,090 mio, a mature market in a
decline phase, the rapid consolidation of industry players, increased generic product
manufacturer activity and an overall decline in manufacturer profitability.
In South Africa crop protection product manufacturers use approximately 46
independent distributors to market products on farms through 600 affiliated
commissioned sales agents. In Australia the distribution of crop protection products is
much more concentrated. Distribution is essentially controlled by five national
distributors and their coupled salaried representatives. Manufacturers therefore rely on
third parties for the marketing of their products to farmers in both countries.
The applicable problem statement has been formulated to select a distribution system
management model that will: (i) optimally balance direct distribution related cost and
subsequent levels of control over distributors; (ii) maximise the probability that a
distributor will buy and actively promote the complete product portfolio of a
for high levels of interpersonal relationship maintenance; and (vi) manufacturers have to
instill the philosophy that distribution system management is part of a manufacturer's
strategic business and marketing focus and not simply a task to be performed by a third
party.<br>AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die tradisionele maniare waarop die vervaardigers van oesbeskermingsprodukte beheer
kan uitoefen oor verspreidingsisteme is nie meer so suksesvol nie. Beheer was
gebaseer op kwaliteil produkte, die mag van die handelsmerk:n gevestigde klientebasis
en 'n wye produktereeks,bestaande uit gepatenteerde produkte,
Vervaardigers van oesbeskermingsprodulcte moet die wyse waarop hierdie produkte
bemark word, watter verspreidingsisteem bestuursmodelle gebruik word en die
belangrikheid wat geplaas word op die bestuur van die verspreidingsisteme in die totala
bemarkingspoging in heroorweging neern.
Die primere doelstelling van hierdie studie is: "Die ontwikkeling van toepaslike
verspreidingsisteem bestuursmodelle vir toe passing in Suid-Afrika en Australia. "Die
sekondere doelstelling is: "Die vas stelling van die sleutelfaktore wat die verhouding
tussen velVaardigers (verskaffers) en verspreiders bepaar.
Die dominante ekonomiese kenmerke van die globale oesbeskermingsindustrie is 'n
markwaarde in VSA $ 28,090 miljoen, 'n stagnante mark in 'n agteruitgang lase, die
drastiese konsolidasie van die industrie spelers, 'n toename in die aktiwiteite van die
generiese produkvervaardigers en 'n algemene daling in die winsgewindheid van die
vervaardigers.
In Suid-Afrika gebruik die vervaardigers van die oesbeskermingsprodukte ongeveer 46
onafhanklike verspreiders om die produkte op plaasvlak te bemark met behulp van 600
geaffilieerde kommissie agente. Die verspreiding van oesbeskermingsprodukte is baie
meer gekonsentreerd in Australie. Verspreiding word in wese beheer deur vyf nasionale
verspreiders en hulle spanne van verkoopsteenwoordigers wat 'n salaris verdien. In
beide lande moet velVaardigers van oesbeskermingsprodukte staatmaak op
onafhanklike instansies vir die bemarking van hul produkte op plaasvlak.
Die probleemsteiling is dus die uitdaging om 'n verspreidingsisteem bestuursmodel t9
ontwikkel wat: (i) . n optima Ie balans sal gee tussen direkte verspreidingskoste en
gekoppelde vlakke van beheer oor verspreiders; (ii) die waarskynlikheid dat . n
verspreider die betrokke produkreeks van die vervaardiger sal aankoop en aktief sal
promoveer; (iii) dit kan bereik in . n mark waar verspreiders talle bronne het van
soortgelyke produkte teen kompeterende pryse.
Gebaseer op die sekondere navorsing wat gedoen is wit dit blyk dat daar 'n algemene
konsensus is dat daar n nei9in9 weg is van transaksie spesifieke
besigheidsverhoudings na besigheidsverhoudings gebaseer op vennootskap
gebaseerde benaderings in die interaksie tussen vervaardigers (verskaffers) en
verspreiders. Hierdie tipe besigheidsverhouding word gekenmerk deur hoe vlakke van
onderlinge vertroue, wedersydse verbintenis, konflik hanteringsmeganismes en goeie
wedersydse kommunikasie.
Primere navorsing is in Suid-Afrika (253 respondente) en Australia (180 respondente)
gedoen. Implikasies vir die konstruksie van verspreidingsisteem bestuursmodelle wat
voortvloei uit hierdie navorsing sluit in die belangrikheid dat on vervaardiger on wye en
gesogte produkreeks het, die vereiste dat produkte beproefde effektiwiteit het, produkte
kompeterend geprys is, die vereiste vir hoe vlakke van verskaffer opvolgdiens en die
vereiste vir goeie interpersoonlike verhouding tussen werknemers van beide die
vervaardigers en die verspreiders. Hierdie elemente moet ondermeer gerugsteun word
deur goeie kommunikasiesisteme.
Die "idea Ie" verspreidingsisteem bestuursmodelle is vervolgens voorgestel vir beide
Suid-Afrika en Australie, gebaseer op die bevindinge van ondermeer die sekondere- en
primere navorsing. Hierdie mode lie het ten doel om toepaslike strukture en
besigheidsbenaderings vir vervaardigers daar te stel om hulle behulpsaam te wees om
die geidentifiseerde behoeftes van die verspreiders aan te spreek.
40
Fyvie, Richard Michael. "The risks of civil engineering project development in emerging nations." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/1481.
Full textAbstract:
This research reviews the challenges and obstacles confronting multinational civil engineering consulting and contracting companies seeking to conduct project developments within Emerging Markets, specifically with regard to the regions of Africa and the Middle East. With the increasing convergence of the global economy towards an interconnected and co-dependant system, the emerging economies of previously underdeveloped parts of the world are now capturing the focus of the civil engineering industry as the primary area of operation. Multinational companies that historically were restricted to construction of the developed world must now adapt and reposition themselves with a footprint in these emerging markets, if they are to take advantage of the changing conditions within the global infrastructure construction industry. For companies historically unfamiliar with operating in Africa and the Middle East, a plethora of potential risks are associated with project development. This research incorporated a substantial literature study that determined a number of critical issues that directly and indirectly influence a company’s ability to complete a project within time and under budget. The literature bank was then tested against the expert opinions of four selected respondents utilising a case study research methodology, as detailed by Yin (1994: 1-17). The respondents represented two selected civil engineering consulting firms, one based in a developed country with an extensive interest in the Middle East, and the other based in an emerging country itself, with operations throughout Africa. The outcome of the research ii highlighted several internal risk factors affecting development in Africa and the Middle East, such as capacity, staff experience, available resources and corporate culture. External factors were, however, the primary focus of respondents’ feedback, and included the reliability of energy supply in the target country, the condition of the built infrastructure such as roads and ports, tax rates and cost of finance, the prevalence of corruption as well as the risk of civil conflict and political instability. The Project Risk Guideline was the final output of this research process, which represented a synthesis between the literature review, the case study investigations as well as synthesis of various accepted risk evaluation techniques. The Guideline is a stage-gate sequential process, and may be utilised by civil engineering consulting or contracting firms with an interest in risk profiling and mitigation for project developments in emerging nations.
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Haydam, Erich. "Mental stress among civil engineering construction site agents and foremen in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/5545.
Full textAbstract:
The civil engineering sector of the construction industry as a whole has been suffering from mental stress due to a lack of stress management interventions, rendering employees vulnerable to burnout, poor mental health, and subject to injury on site. The rationale of this study is to explore the prevalence of mental stress in the civil engineering sector of the construction industry, and the potential causes of stress, vis-à-vis the effects it has on an individual. An empirical study based on a descriptive and analytical survey method was conducted among medium to large civil engineering contractors in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole (NMBM). The study adopted the use of questionnaires, and a review of the related literature to effectively summarise and describe the collected field data. The sample stratum included civil engineering site agents and foremen. The salient findings include: high job demands, low job control, and low job social support are contributors to stress; site agents and foremen long for more time spent with family and friends; site agents and foremen are exposed to various physical, organisational and socio-economic stressors; site agents and foremen are displaying coping strategies unsupportive of a healthy lifestyle; there is a lack of awareness of stress management in the civil engineering sector of the construction industry; the level of stress experienced by site agents and foremen is rated as a lesser extent; the prevalence of depression among site agents and foremen is rated as a lesser extent; site agents and foremen are at risk of injury due to feeling stressed, and site agents and foremen are exposed to a range of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to poor ergonomics, and possibly stress too. It can be concluded that stress negatively affects the civil engineering sector of the construction industry by, inter alia, increased employee absence, injuries and accidents, higher staff turnover, depression, and lower levels of production. Furthermore, stress may lead to eventual burnout, rendering an individual at a significantly higher risk of developing physical health complications. Recommendations include: organisations to address the problem of work-family imbalance, by providing more time off to spend with family and loved ones. v Organisations need to promote and implement internal coping strategies, to assist those who are facing strain to effectively deal with their stress. More support from line managers to employees should be provided, as this will increase their resources in terms of job support, job demand, and job control in their working environment. Also, organisations need to promote teambuilding activities and exercise among their employees. Lastly, organisational policy and government legislation need to be revised in the long term, to provide for individual mental wellbeing, and reduced occupational stress.
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Ayessaki, Winn-Yam Houdou. "Construction project manager health and safety interventions towards improving workers' performance." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/12275.
Full textAbstract:
Optimum construction worker (CW) performance is required to achieve project delivery within project parameters. It is not always the case as CWs are regularly exposed to hazards, involved in accidents, their productivity is poor, they suffer from ill health, suffer from work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and contractors lack resources to allocate towards H&S. However, the lack or the absence of health and safety (H&S) measures, which the aforementioned depend on, has a negative impact on workers’ performance. Two descriptive surveys were conducted among professional construction project managers (CPMs) registered with the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) and general contractors (GCs) registered with the East Cape Master Builders Association (ECMBA). Interviews were also conducted with CPMs registered with the SACPCMP residing in the Nelson Mandela Bay metropolitan area. The salient findings include: • Accidents, which occur on construction sites, impact workers’ performance; • Inadequate H&S implementation affects both CW skills and motivation, which in turn affects their performance; • Poor constructability is relevant to H&S and CWs’ skills; • Provision and maintenance of welfare facilities are commonly inadequate and affect workers’ performance, and • Projects do not benefit from the adequate financial provision for H&S. It was concluded that exposure to hazards, poor site conditions, inadequate provision of welfare facilities, WMSDs, and insufficient financial provision for H&S affect workers’ performance by either incapacitating or demotivating them. Recommendations include : CPMs should make better use of their influence on clients; they should improve communication channels between project stakeholders; legislators need to raise awareness regarding H&S and worker welfare, and training and education institutions need to empower workers and professionals with H&S knowledge.
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Bierman, Marius. "Productivity management in the South African civil construction industry." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13795.
Full textAbstract:
M.Ing. (Engineering Management)<br>Labour productivity in South Africa is at its lowest in 46 years, according to Naicker. South Africa, when compared to its competitors in the emerging market, is less efficient and labour productivity is one of the lowest in the developing world; this does not bode well for the economy and the wellbeing of its citizens. ProductivitySA stated that productivity has an impact on several aspects of a country such as the economy and the society in general and is seen as “a critical driver of economic growth, employment, poverty reduction, and competitiveness” The Civil Construction Industry contributes 3.5% to the GDP of South Africa and it is faced with challenges such as an environment that is exceedingly competitive and organizations in the civil industry experience financial difficulties such as low profit margins. Furthermore, the industry is labour intensive and employs a significant number of unskilled and semi-skilled labour from the local community which is located within the vicinity of the project. The aim of this dissertation, therefore, is to identify the factors that have an impact on the productivity of the civil construction industry of South Africa. A secondary aim is to utilize the factors, which have been identified, to create a productivity management framework with a view to improve construction productivity as part of the normal project management system. An industry specific survey was conducted, in the form of a questionnaire, to ascertain the perceptions of industry professionals regarding factors that have an impact on productivity. A literature study was done to create a benchmark which was used to compare the findings of the questionnaire. The top ranked factors were then used as the foundation of the productivity management framework.
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"Leadership style practices of construction and project managers in the South African construction industry." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13804.
Full textAbstract:
M.Tech. (Construction Management)<br>The construction industry is an important sector in the development and economic progression of South Africa. Moreover, projects in the South African construction industry involve different individuals and organizations that collaborate to achieve a specific task at a specific time. Hence, leadership is essential in any construction organization to achieve organizational goals and to promote individual professional achievement in the industry. This study evaluates different leadership style practices of construction and project managers in the South African construction industry. The study further investigates leadership development approaches in the industry. The data used in this research were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data were collected via a detailed review of related literature. The primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire aimed at 150 construction and project managers in the South African construction industry. The study revealed that project and construction managers in the South African construction industry prefer transformational leadership, followed by transactional and democratic leadership. It was also revealed that communication skills, vision, honesty and reliability are some of the important traits of a project leader. This study also suggests ways in which leaders can be developed in the construction industry. Formal leadership training, mentoring and personal development are highlighted as some of the ways in which construction leaders can be developed in the construction industry. It is therefore recommended that construction organizations in South Africa should invest more than they are currently doing in leadership development programs, so that future project and construction managers can be developed to be effective leaders in the industry. The current study contributes to the body of knowledge on the subject of leadership in the construction industry. The value of the study is to facilitate and understand the different leadership style practices in the construction industry and to determine the relationship between leadership styles and project success. This research also provides new information on how to improve leadership in the South African construction industry.
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"Comparative analysis of construction project management in specified Asian countries." Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1988. http://library.cuhk.edu.hk/record=b5885862.
Full text
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Mukuka, Mulenga Joseph. "Cost and schedule overruns on construction projects in South Africa." Thesis, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/13811.
Full textAbstract:
M.Tech. (Construction Management)<br>The construction industry is a key sector in the development and economic growth of South Africa. However, the industry has not escaped the challenges facing other countries worldwide in terms of delivering construction projects within budget and on time as stipulated in the contracts. This study assesses the causes, effects and measures of minimising construction projects cost and schedule overruns in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. The data used in this study were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The secondary data was collected via detailed review of related literature. The primary data was collected through a questionnaire which was distributed to construction professionals. Out of the 200 questionnaires sent out, 146 were received representing a 73% response rate. Findings revealed that inadequate planning, change in project design, poor project management, inadequate financial provision and inaccurate estimates were the major causes of construction projects cost overruns. Furthermore the study also showed that the causes of construction projects schedule overruns in Gauteng province included: slowness in decision making process, reworks due to errors during construction, delays in approving major changes in the scope of work, delay in material delivery, shortage of skilled equipment operators and low productivity level of workers. Additionally, it was observed that construction project delays, increased project cost due to extension of time, liability of companies to bad debt and project abandonment. The study also revealed that extension of time, cost overruns, loss of profit, disputes and poor quality of work due to hurrying the project were the major effects of construction projects schedule overruns. Likewise, the study revealed that adequate planning, proper pre-contract planning, proper project implementation and management and good workmanship were the most effective ways of minimising construction projects cost overruns. Finally the results revealed that proper project planning and scheduling, effective strategic planning, site management and supervision, frequent coordination between the construction team, availability of clear information and communication channels were the most effective ways of minimising construction projects schedule overruns in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. It is recommended that all members of construction teams be trained and educated of the factors that cause project cost and schedule overruns in order to minimise these overruns.
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Ndlovu, Sithembiso. "Investigation of a financial model for small and medium sized contractors in South Africa." Thesis, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10210/4841.
Full textAbstract:
M. Tech.<br>The financing needs of contractors, especially emerging contractors, need to be explored. In the case of the Small, Medium and Micro-Enterprises (SMMEs’) within the contracting sector, a type of “finance-PLUS” arrangement, which sees the lender, or an intermediary, offer additional support services to emerging enterprises, would be worth exploring. There are various perspectives and opinions on the format and context of the contribution. One of these perspectives embraces the obstacles involved in the entrepreneurial process hindering contribution and economic catalisation. This study follows a focused approach towards the investigation of a financial model for small, medium sized contractors in South Africa. Interviews were conducted and questioners were sent out to different constructors who have been successful in the business for more than five years and also contractors who are currently straggling and trying to survive and grow. Conclusions will be drawn from the analysis and recommendations will be made for further study and curriculum revision, if necessary. All types of businesses need capital before and after they start operating as well as for expansion purpose. The problem is people who have been listed on credit bureaus have their records count against them when they apply for a loan. A key factor mitigating against increased investment in the SMMEs’ sector is the structure of the financial sector. The findings of the study point to the fact that conventional financing mechanisms do not allow for cost-effective provision of finance to large numbers of entrepreneurs seeking small quantities of finance. Effects of poverty and lack of assets mean that many people do not have the collateral needed to access finance. The study also found that although there are different initiatives that are in place to assist small and medium size contractors the typical problems and challenges are still existing. The scopes of this study only focused on small, medium and micro-enterprise in the built environment (specifically the construction industry). In addition, the study focuses on the different financial programmes that are currently in place. An overarching concern is that previously disadvantaged individuals do not have adequate access to credit offered by formal financial institutions and therefore are forced to seek relatively expensive (and often inadequate) amounts of credit from alternative financial sources.
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Phirwa, Tabodi. "Construction project management registration and project performance." Thesis, 2017. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24105.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis is submitted in partial fulfilment for the degree of M.Sc. Building to the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, School of Construction Economics and Management at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2017<br>Project management is no longer seen as just a management based approach but as a profession in its own right. It is, however, still common that individuals practice project management without, necessarily, being registered with the profession creating a crossing of professional jurisdiction. Existing literature or lack thereof indicates shallow investigation into project management registration and its impact on project performance.
This report compares the project performance of registered and non-registered construction project managers in the South African built environment. A mix method approach was applied where the quantitative data was collected and complimented by qualitative data that aimed to solicit perceived factors that may influence improved project performance. Using a cross-sectional survey interview consisting of a semistructured questionnaire, data were collected from project management practitioners and professionals with the relevant knowledge and experience. The survey solicited 578 responses, with only 402 being regarded as complete survey responses. There respondents were sourced from the various professional councils that fall under the South African Built Environment.
The results indicate no significant differentiation between the project performance of registered construction project managers and those who are not registered as construction project managers. On the job experience is considered a vital factor influencing project performance from a project manager’s perspective. Responses also indicate a variance in the perceived importance of construction project management registration. Despite the primary motivation behind registration having been expressed as “competitive advantage”, registration was considered most effective when used in combination with education, training and the understanding of project management knowledge areas.<br>XL2018
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Fok, Clinton. "Virtual collaboration: improving communication in the South African construction industry." Thesis, 2018. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/25738.
Full textAbstract:
A research report submitted to the School of Construction Economics and
Management
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Witwatersrand
15 February 2018<br>This thesis aims to explore the impact of virtual communication among professionals
within the South African construction industry by analysis of responses to a distributed
questionnaire and interviews which will highlight trends and hindrances to effective
communication. It hopes to answer the key question of key factors affecting virtual
communication from a global perspective to that of the current South African state in order
to improve future forms of ICT to maintain and enhance global competitiveness.
To date, many construction organisations are autocratic and have a hierarchical
organisational structure, which is often static and unable to change to current market
needs. However, there is a growing trend for organisations to form specialised
decentralised teams. These units are dynamic and are more flexible with knowledge
transfer allowing their organisation to adapt to the ever changing global market. One
particular adaptation in the construction industry is in information communication
technology (ICT) which has resulted in organisations becoming more globally competitive.
ICT is becoming more widely used in the construction project life cycle.
While the development of virtual collaborations has allowed for companies to be globally
competitive, there are areas in need of improvement such as communication and
information processing. The use of current communication methods and processes are
technologically driven and do not consider the individual’s psychological aspects. Social
interaction within a workplace is important with a move away from autocratic information
dissemination. These aspects have a direct effect on project delivery efficiency;
productivity of labour force; as well as quality of the final product.
There is a distinct shift in the use of different media for communication and effective those
medium has proved to be. The reluctance to change and how quickly individuals adapt to
technological advancements also impact on the efficiency of communication.<br>MT 2018
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Msani, Thulani Armstrong. "Critical success factors influencing project success in the Durban construction industry." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10321/689.
Full textAbstract:
Dissertation submitted in compliance with the requirements for the Masters Degree in Technology: Business Administration, Durban University of Technology, 2011.<br>This study presents an assessment of the perceptions of project managers and contractors regarding the critical success factors influencing project success in the Durban construction industry. To achieve this aim, questionnaires were administered to 95 project managers and 61 active grade four contractors in Durban. The critical success factors are encapsulated in components, that is, comfort, competence, communication and commitment (COMs). These components make up the four COMs model which forms a basis for evaluation of the questionnaires.
An in-depth analysis review of the literature on the critical success factors in the construction industry has affirmed the four COMs model. The interpretation of this quantitative study was conducted with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics presented in a tabular format.
The findings revealed that both project managers and contractors strongly support the critical success factors as significant in achieving project success. There was no significant difference in their perception of critical success factors, given the biographic differences between them. Achieving project success has eluded the Durban construction industry to a point where it is battling to keep existing clients. The critical success factors identified in this study have provided a way forward for project managers and contractors. Hence, the results presented in this study can be used as a guideline for successful execution of construction projects in Durban. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) can play a pivotal role by providing an enabling environment which will facilitate the adoption of the results of this study. For example, the CIDB can amend its legislation on contracts by making them simple to comprehend. In this way the number of lawsuits between project managers and contractors would be drastically reduced.