In the bustling heart of Ghana’s construction industry, a critical examination of the factors dragging down project performance has just been unveiled, offering a roadmap for improvement that could resonate across the energy sector and beyond. Benjamin Boahene Akomah, a researcher from the School of Civil Engineering at VIT University in India, has pinpointed the culprits behind delayed, over-budget, and subpar construction projects, and his findings could reshape how we approach large-scale builds.
Akomah’s study, published in the journal *Construction Economics and Building* (translated as *Construction Economics and Building*), employed a sophisticated statistical technique called confirmatory factor analysis to dissect the negative influences on construction projects. The research identified 66 variables that could hamper project performance, which were then distilled into three critical latent factors: poor assessment strategies, weak management systems, and inefficient regulatory systems.
The study revealed that poor assessment strategies are particularly detrimental. “A poor assessment strategy is more consequential,” Akomah stated, highlighting the need for robust evaluation methods to foresee and mitigate potential pitfalls. The research also underscored the importance of environmental and safety considerations, noting that inadequate legislative frameworks and the absence of occupational health and safety clauses in contracts significantly impact project outcomes.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Construction projects in this arena often involve complex, large-scale builds that demand meticulous planning and stringent safety measures. Akomah’s findings suggest that enhancing assessment strategies and fortifying management and regulatory systems could lead to more efficient, safer, and environmentally sound projects. This could translate to reduced costs, minimized delays, and improved project outcomes, ultimately benefiting both the construction firms and the end-users.
Moreover, the study calls for stronger anti-corruption mechanisms to curb malpractices in the construction sector. By addressing these issues, the industry could witness a shift towards more transparent and accountable practices, fostering a healthier business environment.
Akomah’s research serves as a wake-up call for stakeholders in the construction and energy sectors. It underscores the need for a holistic approach to project management, one that prioritizes assessment, management, and regulatory efficiency. As the industry grapples with increasing complexities and demands, these findings could pave the way for innovative solutions and improved project performance.
In the words of Akomah, “The government should enact adequate health and safety and environmental and local community protection laws to protect the environment and local communities during construction.” This call to action resonates beyond Ghana, offering a blueprint for construction industries worldwide to enhance their practices and deliver better outcomes.