Developing a framework for minimising conflicts between subcontractors and main contractors in the construction industry in selected regions in Ghana.

Abstract

Construction industry is one of the largest and complex industry in Ghana which involve multiple Consultants with different interests’ areas. Conflict and disputes are almost inevitable in construction industry. The aim of the study was to develop a framework for minimizing conflicts between subcontractors and main contractors in the construction industry in selected regions in Ghana. The study employed a cross sectional survey design and a quantitative strategy. The target population of the study is construction site managers/engineers of main contractors and subcontractors. Stratified random sampling was used to select construction firms registered with the Registrar Generals Office at Tamale and purposive sampling technique used to select the site managers/engineers. The findings of the study suggest that the five key causes of conflicts between main and sub-contractors in the construction industry include; inaccurate design information, delayed in response on the part of the main contractors, lack of effective communication among project consultant and main contractors, incomplete work-drawings or specifications, and inadequate supply of materials. The findings revealed that the main effects of conflicts on projects include; reduces productivity at construction sites, cost overruns, increase in the additional work for the project, diversion of resource in respect of management time allocated to resolving conflict, loss and reduction of quality of work, delays in project completion, and termination of contract. Also, the findings suggest that the role of project Consultants include; help in selection of subcontractors through competitive tendering, make clear understanding of the contract conditions and requirements, project objectives and implementation, the clarity of the contract between main contractors and subcontractors, ensure compliance with regulations by main contractors & subcontractors, and ensure effective communication & coordination of main contractor and subcontractors. The study also revealed that effects of conflicts have a positive and significant effect on Role of Consultants in Minimizing Conflict, given the path coefficient results β =.521, t = 8.274, p < .01. A framework was developed for minimizing the causes and mitigating the effects of conflicts in the construction industry.