3. Electronic Theses and Dissertations (ETDs) - All submissions
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Item Feasibility assessment of projects for risk of failure: how feasibility assessment are done for infrastructure projects(2019) Smith, Ronald GeorgeAvoiding project failure is a concern within the discipline of project planning and management. Feasibility assessment is a front-end process used in project planning to analyse risks and avoid failure. The aim was to explore how feasibility assessments for large infrastructure development projects are conducted and the extent to which risk of failure is recognised. Literature review established theory and definition of feasibility assessment as applied to projects. Two cases of large scale infrastructure development projects in South Africa were investigated to compare different approaches of how feasibility assessments are conducted. Methodology was a combination of direct observation, interviews and analysis of documents collected from the case studies. The predominant risk factor recognised by expert feasibility assessors in both cases was found to be perception of risk itself. Questions asked of the experts are designed to lead to a confirmation that the project could go ahead. The questions do not necessarily ask opinion on whether the project should go ahead. Comparison of the cases showed that the process of feasibility assessment was driven by each assessing firm’s own interpretation of the purpose and objective of feasibility assessment. Overall, the study confirms that the feasibility assessment process is useful as a way for project managers to recognise risk of failure before deciding to proceed with a project. However, the process depends on each assessor’s own interpretation of the definition of feasibility assessment and its purpose. Further research is suggested into the distinction between the reasons justifying why a feasibility assessment was not done, and the reasons why feasibility assessment was not considered for a projectItem Relationship quality and service quality between contractor and construction client(2017) Singh, EvashnePurpose Existing studies demonstrate that contractors have not fully embraced the idea of forming relationships with their clients and providing superior service quality through improved project performance. Performance on projects has been poor and client contractor relationships have become adversarial as a result of the short term, profit orientated approach adopted by many construction firms. To improve client value and construction business sustainability, it is necessary that construction firms adopt a client- orientated approach to managing projects and this can be achieved through understanding the client’s needs closely. In line with the foregoing, the aim of the current research is to investigate South African public sector construction client’s perspectives on relationship quality between contractors and construction clients and their perceived shortcomings in service quality. Having this understanding will help contractors improve their service quality and their relationship with clients. This is likely to improve the competitiveness of contracting firms, thereby improving business sustainability. Methodology/ Approach A survey research design was adopted for this study. Adopting a semi-structured mailed questionnaire survey, 45 different construction client representatives, from 11 public sector organisations in South Africa were approached, out of which 10 client representatives of different roles and responsibilities responded (22% response rate). Public sector clients targeted were those who have mainly worked with contractors undertaking medium to large scale construction projects. The respondents incorporated project managers/ leaders and middle and senior management who have experience on construction projects. Initial contact was made telephonically and this was followed by the distribution of survey questionnaires through email. Findings Based on the responses from client representatives, the primary factors influencing relationship quality between client and contractor was found to be open and honest communication, followed by trust and fairness. The primary shortcoming in service quality was found to be competency, followed by a lack of open and honest communication. Competency related shortcomings incorporated the contractor’s inability to manage resources, time and cost on projects. The findings have also revealed that a small percentage of public sector clients are aware of the problems in service quality and have started to consider alternative procurement approaches to offset performance related risks and consequently, improve contractor client relationship quality and service quality. However, some public sector clients still support traditional procurement approaches and others are not knowledgeable on how ongoing challenges in relationship quality and service quality may be mitigated though adopting appropriate procurement strategies. Practical Implications Client contractor relationships are likely to improve when there is open and honest communication at all times and where there is a level of trust between contractors and clients. Service quality is likely to improve if contractor competence issues are addressed to effect better service quality through improved project delivery. Contractors engaging in open and honest communication with their clients is also likely to improve the service quality of contractors. To effect change it is necessary for clients to consider alternative procurement approaches to achieve better service quality and client contractor relationships. The consultant’s role becomes pivotal in ensuring quality service delivery and harmonious client contractor relationships. Originality This research adds to the limited studies in South Africa on the client’s perspectives on relationship quality and service quality. It bridges a gap in the previous studies, which have not investigated public sector clients’ views on relationship quality and service quality. Keywords: Construction Industry, Construction Projects, Contractor Performance, Relationships, Service qualityItem Construction project management registration and project performance(2017) Phirwa, TabodiProject 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.Item Investigating public sector client performance in South African construction procurement(2017) Saad, Mohammed MustaphaThis study proceeds from the premise that the dissatisfaction of the clients with the outcomes of the construction projects stems from their objectives not being met by the industry. The study aimed at investigating public sector clients’ performance in the South African construction procurement with a view to establishing how their efficiency and effectiveness could be improved during procurement processes. The specific research objectives are to: identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) for public sector clients in their procurement process; assess and analyse the weaknesses and strengths associated with public sector clients’ performance in the construction procurement process; develop a methodical approach to the measurement of public sector clients’ performance in their procurement processes; and recommend implementable approaches to improving client performance in the public sector procurement process. A qualitative and quantitative mixed method research design was adopted in carrying out the study. This involved the use of interviews and structured questionnaire survey. Data were collected from National and Provincial Departments of Public Works as public sector client representatives in South Africa. Based on the analysis of the organogram, a total of six functional units involved in the procurement process were identified and targeted for the purpose of data collection. The purposive sampling technique was adopted for the study. These are Heads of Departments, Deputy Directors General responsible for construction projects, Chief financial officers, Heads of supply chain management, Heads of human resources management, and senior project managers. Information collected included issues leading to uncovering of public sector key performance indicators (KPIs) and strengths and weaknesses associated with public sector clients’ performance. Data collected were analysed using content analysis to determine the themes and constructs leading to the identification of public key performance indicators. Further analysis was carried out using mean ranking analysis of factors associated with the strengths and weaknesses associated with public sector clients’ performance. The results of the research show project delivery process as good, not excellent; no detailed template for clarifying project briefs; legislative and administrative procedures lead to time and cost overruns; lack of adequate capabilities within in-house trained professionals and technical expertise to supervise all projects, insufficient in-house professionals to be represented on each project site; lack of mechanism to monitor in-house professionals’ participation on project sites; low participation of end users’ agents due to high incapacitation of User Department organisation; DPW are highly incapacitated because of lack of standard documentations; lack of professional training and short courses to enhance the skills and expertise of technical professionals. Other results show that delayed/late payment to contractors and end user agents due to cash flow challenges; weak or neglect of project monitoring and supervision; disputes between project managers and consultants as a result of quality of work done by contractors; bureaucratic bottlenecks and long decision making processes; design changes and variation due to contingent events, unforeseen circumstances due to weather, earthworks, disasters, changes in User Department briefs and challenges due to administration and political issues. The findings could also be drawn from challenges in descending order of importance from the human resources management units, the financial management units, the supply chain management units, project management units, decision making processes, planning units, design, briefing, documentation and policy issues. The study concluded that 137 public sector key performance indicators are identifiable for assessing public sector client performance in South African procurement. It also concluded that out of several challenges, the human resources, financial management, supply chain management, and project management challenges are the most severe challenges that beset the National and Provincial Department of Public Works, while the documentation and policy issues are less severe. Implementable recommendations were made to specific user departments. The human resources management units in the South African National and Provincial Departments of Public Works should adopt the recommendation suggested in this study to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of professionals during their project delivery process.Item The impact which ethical decision making has on rework within the construction industry(2017) Barnes, CraigThis study examines the lack of application of ethical values by construction project managers towards work activities under their control. At the same time, this study also examines the barriers preventing construction project managers from acting ethically. The non-application of ethical values by the construction project managers is resulting in an increase in the amount of rework during the construction process which is in turn impacting on the timeous completion of construction projects. Interpretivist and positivist research methodology was applied to this study through a single case study which was tested through a later set of interview questions. The case study took place at the Medupi Power Station construction project and composed of interviews and questionnaires distributed to construction project managers working on the Medupi Power Station site. The further interview questions took place in Johannesburg. The further interviews were undertaken to determine supporting evidence for the previous findings established through the initial data collected in the study. The findings of the study established that a failure of the construction project manager’s ethical values is resulting in an increase in the amount of rework occurring on a construction project which is having a negative impact on the successful timeous completion of these construction projects. The findings from this study further established that although there are current barriers in place to prevent construction project managers from acting unethically, the implementation of an ethical code of conduct would have a positive influence on the amount of rework that is currently occurring during the construction phase of construction projects.Item The influence of unrealistic initial contract duration on time performance of construction projects in South Africa(2017) Mavasa, Amanda ViolaThe construction industry in many countries is faced with challenges when it comes to construction project delivery and this may be due to various factors, which are identified in the research. (Memon, et al ,2010), categorized the challenges faced in the construction industry as; delays in completing projects on time, expenditure exceeding budgets as well as poor quality. The purpose of the research is to determine the impact of unrealistic initial construction programmes on time performance on projects. The research Investigates how project managers or project planner determine the initial construction periods. Investigate how the three industry participants i.e. the contractor, the consultants, and the client contribute to project delay due to unrealistic construction time periods. And further investigates what can be done to assist inexperienced consultants in determining construction time periods. This study addresses factors that affect project time performance, with the focus on the initial estimated contract duration. A mono method quantitative research was selected and used, to identify the factors that affect timely completion of projects. 33 out of 70 respondents responded to the questionnaire. Through the analyses of questionnaires, the research reports on how industry professionals use existing construction guidelines in determining the construction duration as well as the impact of programming on project performance. From numerical data obtained from the respondents, 43% believes that the client determines the construction duration, while 38% says it’s the consultant project manager and only 14% says it’s the contractor. The client, through his representative determines the construction duration. There are no regulated or standardized guidelines for determining the construction duration, this is dependent on the project managers experience. Though there are other factors that causes construction delays, and not specifically the initial programme, all these factors can be directly linked to this programme.Item Investigating the existence of common and agreed design and construction process among consulting professionals(2017) Simango, SiapengaThe prevalence and persistence of problems of late project delivery, cost overruns, poor quality and many others, coupled with the lack of concrete solutions to eliminate the causes of these problems over many years have driven construction industries around the world to reconsider their design and construction processes that are used to deliver projects. A government led study in the UK recommended re-thinking the design and construction process; learning from the manufacturing industry. The process protocol was developed as a result, in order to bring about a common and agreed project delivery process. Other construction industries around the world have considered adopting similar models, believing change intended to introduce process-thinking for consistency and standardisation is required to improve project delivery. In South Africa, the existence of a common and agreed project delivery process is not clear. This study has endeavoured to explore the current phenomenon among professional councils and bodies on the existence of a common and agreed design and construction process. The research is a general opinion survey without the need for a statistical analysis. Therefore, utilising the qualitative research method was deemed to be most appropriate at this high level stage. From the research findings, it has been concluded that while there are six stages recognised by all professional councils and associations, these stages are not used as a project delivery process. The six stages are only applied to the measurement of the professional fees due at a given stage though not applied the same way by all professional disciplines. The underlying details in the stages overlap between disciplines in some instances and are inconsistent as well. The general consensus, from the research participants, is that a more defined and agreed process is required. The government has already taken the lead with the initiative of developing the Infrastructure Delivery Management System (IDMS) for public infrastructure projects. There is unanimous agreement among the research participants that the IDMS would be appropriate to be applied throughout the industry as a starting point for process standardisation.Item Investigating public consultation in the implementation of mega projects in South Africa(2017) Mahayi, Mawelewele LudicThere is a noticeable prevalence of public resistance when implementing mega public sector projects in South Africa. This resistance is indicative of a lack of communication between implementers and the general populace. The aim of the study was to assess the regulatory framework of public consultation in mega projects in South Africa. A cross-sectional survey design of consulting engineers, project managers, and municipality staff, using structured questionnaire was adopted. This was followed by case analyses of three mega projects in South Africa. The main finding of the study is that there has to be operationalizable regulatory framework which could be utilized to inculcate public consultation, its coordination should be articulated within the three spheres of government, this has to be monitored systematically. As such thereis the need to improve on the provisions and implementation of the existing regulatory framework among the spheres of government for better coordination and monitoring with the public.Item An evaluation of the effectiveness of Transnet Capital Project’s Preferential Procurement in Civil Engineering Construction Projects(2017) Dlamini, Lusanda Siphesihle NomceboPreferential procurement is one of five elements of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment which is used to measure the compliance of organizations. This research evaluates the effectiveness of Preferential Procurement that Transnet Capital Projects (TCP) has in civil engineering contracts. This research was conducted to understand the contribution made by of the civil engineering contracts in isolation to all the other procurement activities done TCP as the business mandate is to deliver Infrastructure projects reliably. A mixed research method was used to analyze the data for this research. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) tool was used to compare the overall organization scores to the scores calculated by this research, after which, a questionnaire was developed and interviews conducted to validate the quantitative results. The outcome of the analysis was that civil engineering projects were non-compliant to the desired targets outlined by TCP. As a result, initiatives were proposed by this research to assist both TCP and the service providers to improve future scoring in preferential procurement. As a deliverable for this research, a Microsoft Excel Model to track the compliance and monitor the preferential procurement scores was developed.Item The use of Total Quality Management (TQM) concepts in public sector infrastructure project delivery(2016) Khomela, Emmanuel MarangSouth African public sector clients use a variety of Total Quality Management (TQM) practice in infrastructure project delivery. However, there is a dearth of information on the impact of TQM on these projects. The three main drivers of public projects delivery are time, cost and quality. In many instances, the quality of the work is lacking and this in return hamper service delivery and consequently cost and time overruns are experienced. Furthermore, The public sector in the South African construction industry is the main employer of consultants, contractors and professionals in the construction fraternity, could lead from the front by bring the culture of quality in the construction industry. The study is investigating the level of TQM adoption in the public sector and is motivated by the limited academic research that has been done locally in TQM with respect to construction industry, especially from the client’s perspective. Internationally there have been extensive studies that were conducted on the subject. In general, there are ten elements of TQM, if practiced, there is an opportunity for positive results which can be attained both in short and long term basis. A questionnaire was used to collect the qualitative data, from public sector engineers and technicians, Consulting engineers and Contractor, which is then analysed using a range of statistical techniques, tables and graphs. In general, TQM concepts are used in the South African public sector infrastructure projects. There public sector should work towards quality management certifications, which will translate into standardised quality process. TQM can only be achieved if there are already process in place. Keywords TQM, Infrastructure projects, Project management, Service delivery Public sector, South Africa