Abstract:
The progress of many institutions relies on a well - functioning physical
infrastructural development. The involvement of local construction firms in
constructing infrastructure projects cannot be over emphasized. However, most of the
local construction firms perform abysmally as far as quality delivery was concerned.
Many projects undertaken by local construction firms experience delays and other
substandard performance. The aim of this study was to assess the causes of poor
performance of local construction firms. The study adopted a mixed method design
involving the administration of survey questionnaires, interviews and observation to a
sample of 71 respondents made of Quantity Surveyors, Site engineers, Structural
engineers, Masons Steel benders and Electricians The collected data was analyzed
using statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 21. The results were
presented using percentages and mean values in Tables and charts .The findings of the
study suggested that lack of adequate technical expertise, inadequate construction
equipment and lack adequate skilled laborshortage of materials, improper design,
unreliable sub-contractors, complexity of the project, unclear details in drawings,
equipment unavailability were the key factors causing low performance of local
construction firms in Wa Municipality. The study recommends that sub-contractors
should be selected based on their past experience. Contractors should not be selected
only based on their lowest bid. Local construction firms should have competent – spot
supervisors to ensure persuasive execution of the project in time. The study finally
recommends that local construction firms should ensure they have necessary capital to
purchase equipment and machinery for easy and prompt delivery of projects.
Description:
A Dissertation in the Department of CONSTRUCTION AND WOOD
TECHNOLOGY, Faculty of TECHNICAL EDUCATION, submitted to the
School of Graduate Studies, University of Education, Winneba in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Master of Technology Education
(Construction) degree