Evaluating change orders and their impacts on construction project performance in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

The construction of a project is a complex process, which could make orders unavoidable. Identifying the causes of change orders on construction projects is therefore imperative in order to avoid potential changes in future. This study investigated change orders and construction project performance in Lagos state, focusing on the causes of change orders on construction projects. This is to assess their impact on construction project and minimize their occurrences. The objectives are to investigate the causes of change orders; to examine the important measures to control change orders; to examine the impact of change orders on construction projects and to examine the level of occurrence. The research was carried out using convenience sampling technique. Questionnaire survey was used to elicit information in which 50 questionnaires were distributed to the building construction professionals in Lagos state. A total of 45 questionnaires representing a 90% response rate were analysed using frequency, mean and standard deviation. The result indicated that the major cause of change orders is change of plan or scope of work, the most important measure to control change orders is involving all the parties involved in projects, and the major adverse impact of change orders on construction projects is cost overrun. Conclusively, various causes of change orders can be curtailed through awareness and adequate participation of project parties. It is recommended that practitioners should be cautious of the causes of change orders on construction projects. Construction professionals should as well adopt proper planning among parties involved to control change orders.

Keywords: Change Orders, Measures, Impact, Causes, Occurrence