In a revealing study published in ‘NOVASINERGIA,’ Carlos Saldaña from the Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo has shed light on a critical issue plaguing the construction sector in Ecuador: the quality of technical specifications (TS) in civil works. The research highlights how deficiencies in TS can lead to significant delays and cost overruns, affecting not only project timelines but also the overall financial health of construction contracts.
Saldaña’s team conducted an on-site evaluation of 176 items across 30 projects in Zone 3 of Ecuador, utilizing SPSS software to analyze the data. The findings were alarming; the quality of the technical specifications was rated at a mere 39.81%. This stark statistic raises questions about the planning phase of construction projects, where the groundwork for success is laid. “When technical specifications are poorly defined, the repercussions ripple through the entire project lifecycle,” Saldaña noted. “It’s not just about the immediate costs; it affects stakeholder trust and future opportunities.”
The implications of these findings extend beyond academic interest; they resonate deeply within the commercial landscape of the construction industry. With public contracts often subject to scrutiny, a lack of quality in technical specifications can lead to increased project costs and extended timelines, which in turn can deter potential investors and clients. The study serves as a clarion call for construction firms to reassess their TS processes to mitigate risks and enhance project delivery.
As the construction industry grapples with the challenges of rising costs and tight schedules, the insights from Saldaña’s research could shape future practices. By emphasizing the need for robust technical specifications, firms may not only improve project outcomes but also foster a culture of accountability and precision in their operations.
This study is a pivotal step toward understanding the quality of technical specifications in civil works, and it could encourage stakeholders to prioritize thorough planning and quality assurance in their projects. The construction sector stands at a crossroads, and how it responds to these findings may very well dictate its trajectory in the coming years. For more information on this research and its implications, visit Universidad Nacional de Chimborazo.
