Influence of Project Setting on the Constructability Practices of Indigenous Road Construction Firms in Nigeria

Abstract

Previous studies on the constructability of construction projects hardly explain the influence of project complexity and setting on constructability practices. This study analysed the constructability practices of indigenous road construction firms (IRCFs) in Nigeria and ascertained the differences in the practices for different complexities of road work and project settings. Quantity surveyors and highway engineers were surveyed, and the data analysed using Kruskal Wallis H test, multiple comparisons and mean scores. It was found that environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) is least carried out in roads of <1Km. Also, cost optimization and adequate allowance for temporary/protective works are practised more in federal government projects than in private sector projects. Constructability practices hardly lead to better stakeholder management and absence of construction disputes. Future studies on constructability should take into cognizance the effects of project complexity and setting since these could determine the extent of constructability practice, and the outcome of the practice. Constructability practices by IRCFs should cover dispute and stakeholder management strategies. This study explicates the differences in the adoption of constructability practices for road projects of different complexities and organisational settings. It also demonstrates the relationship between constructability practices and project performance.