The impact of e-business on performance of construction firms in the Kumasi Metropolis

Abstract

The use of Information Communication Technology on construction activities has gained prominence in recent times due to the rise in innovative ways to execute task electronically which e-business is no exception. This study sought to examine the impact of e-business on performance of construction firms using Kumasi Metropolis as the case study. Purposive and stratified sampling techniques were adopted for selecting the sample size of 268 (employees and contractors) out of which 204 responded. Questionnaire and interview guide served as the University of Education,Winneba http://ir.uew.edu.gh 12 main data collection instruments for the study and results were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that e-business was not effectively accepted and utilized by most construction firms though there some little patronage of the system for performing transactions. It was established that e-business has led to saving of time and collaboration with stakeholders through effective communication and cost saving approach in construction activities. Some challenges enumerated by most respondents were lack of security and trust in transacting business online, lack of technological expertise and inadequate training organized for employees. Despite these challenges, careful and effective e-business systems were found to have led to construction firms gaining competitive advantage, increased transactional speed and eliminates many manual activities and enhance efficiency in conducing construction business processes. It is appropriate for construction industry of Ghana to promote and create adequate awareness on e-business and its related significance. This will help inspire confidence in construction firms’ owners and management to adopt e business practices.