- KN 4155
ACCRA-GHANA
Purpose Supply chain (SC) disruption, whether demand sided or supply sided, is conversely perceived to affect organisational performance of construction firms. This paper, therefore, aims to examine the linkage of supply chain disruptions... more
Purpose Supply chain (SC) disruption, whether demand sided or supply sided, is conversely perceived to affect organisational performance of construction firms. This paper, therefore, aims to examine the linkage of supply chain disruptions with organisational performance of construction firms through the moderating role of innovation. Design/methodology/approach Using a quantitative research, approach the views of 84 construction professionals were elicited using a structured questionnaire. Ordinary least squares were utilised to validate the hypotheses set. Findings The study proved that there is a negative relationship between demand-related disruption and business performance as well as project performance. Also, it was clear from the study that supply-related disruptions had a significant impact on both project performance and business performance. Although SC innovation was seen to impact business performance, it had no relationship with project performance. Generally, innovatio...
Research Interests:
Design for disassembly (DfD) is a promising sustainable design paradigm for the construction sector development. Thus, the study provides a critical review on the principle of design for disassembly for a period of 8year. The study... more
Design for disassembly (DfD) is a promising sustainable design paradigm for the construction sector development. Thus, the study provides a critical review on the principle of design for disassembly for a period of 8year. The study revealed that documentation of materials and methods, standardization of components and use mechanical joints instead of chemical joints were most frequent principle that are used for design for disassembly. The finding revealed that authors from Australia, United Kingdom and United states have made the most contribution to principles on DfD. Moreover, the study has provided a checklist to promote this design paradigm.
The price of goods and services are generally difficult to determine. This is as a result of several factors that are involved in the fortitude of a specific price. In the light of this, there is a growing awareness of effective pricing... more
The price of goods and services are generally difficult to determine. This is as a result of several factors that are involved in the fortitude of a specific price. In the light of this, there is a growing awareness of effective pricing issues in recent times among construction professionals. In the Ghanaian Construction Industry, the issue of pricing is more dreadful as project works are easily abandoned. Construction projects in developing economies such as Ghana are largely faced with poor cost planning practices. Achieving desirable products for which the clients are interested in is founded on the amount they are willing to pay, however, determining such payments have always led to misunderstanding. Thus, in this paper, the pricing characteristics are reviewed to bring the discussion on pricing to focus. From the review, the study establishes three main characteristics as underpricing, over-pricing and equilibrium pricing. The study further establishes the need for quantity surveyors to achieve equilibrium in their pricing or either developed strategies that will curb the growing phenomenon of underpricing and over-pricing which has been the bane of the development of the construction industry. It is suggested that construction participants are to create mediums for the application of effective pricing.
Research Interests:
Adaptation and retrofitting of existing buildings in recent times has gained increasing recognition as an acceptable alternative to new buildings. The aim of this study was to identify the challenges to retrofitting and adaptation of... more
Adaptation and retrofitting of existing buildings in recent times has gained increasing recognition as an acceptable alternative to new buildings. The aim of this study was to identify the challenges to retrofitting and adaptation of existing buildings within the major central business district in Ghana. Questionnaires were distributed to clients, contractors and construction consultants within Accra, Kumasi and Sekondi-Takoradi Central Business Districts. Out of the 300 questionnaires administered, 55% of responsive rate was achieved. Data generated from the survey was analysed using mean score ranking to determine the level of severity regarding its significance. The high cost of adaptation and retrofitting process, poor maintenance culture of building owners, health and safety requirements during retrofitting, building tenants' resistance to disruptive processes, inadequate government legislation among others were identified as some challenges to retrofitting and adaptation of existing buildings. It was therefore suggested that policy makers and practitioners should put in place measures for curbing such occurrences.
Research Interests:
The construction industry is a sector of the economy that transforms various resources into constructed physical economic and social infrastructure necessary for socioeconomic development. Labour forms an integral part of the construction... more
The construction industry is a sector of the economy that transforms various resources into constructed physical economic and social infrastructure necessary for socioeconomic development. Labour forms an integral part of the construction process and cannot be overlooked. The reward of labour wages has become a domain for agitation in recent times as a result of the differential pricing of labour across the country, ranging from city to city. The aim of this study is to explore the determinants that account for different rates of labour. A mixed method approach was used that involves semi-structure interview and closed-ended questionnaires. The target population for the data collection was contractors, labourers and consultants within Ghana. Data generated from the survey were analysed using relative importance index (RII). The study revealed that consultants, labourers and contractors take into account the level of skill of personnel, demand for labour competition among firms, use of plant and equipment among others as the important determinants for labour pricing differential. The empirical data are limited to the views of consultants, labourers and contractors in the Ghanaian construction industry only. The article is of utmost importance for policymakers especially consultants in estimating prices of labour for certain geographical regions. Likewise, the study has the potential of spurring future development of the industry in order to stop labour agitation and also serve as a basis for future research.
Research Interests:
The increasing demand for construction products has put pressure on the ranging prices. This has brought a trend where prices of construction products differ from one locality to the other. The effect of this has adversely increased the... more
The increasing demand for construction products has put pressure on the ranging prices. This has brought a trend where prices of construction products differ from one locality to the other. The effect of this has adversely increased the cost of construction in general. The purpose of this study was to explore the causes of differences in prices of three selected construction products in Ghana Construction Industry namely timber, concrete, electrical fittings and appliances. This study adopted the quantitative research approach where a structured questionnaire survey was used to collect data from total respondents of six-hundred (600) thus involving: manufacturers, suppliers and contractors. The data collected from the field survey was organized and further analyzed using Relative Importance Index (RII) to capture the weights of various factors within a specified method. The findings of the study revealed that differential pricing exist in the Ghanaian Construction Industry and that the causes of differences in prices includes; cost of production, competition, product substitution, exchange rate and demographics for concrete products and product differentiation, systematic differences in production costs, product quality; and random measurement and reporting errors for timber products. Lastly, smuggle of products at the borders, the cost of production, high demand of product, transportation cost of product and short supply of product were some of the causes of price differentials in terms of electrical fittings and appliances. The implication is that the paper identifies and creates awareness of the causes of price differentials in the Ghanaian Construction Industry (GCI), so that strategies can be adopted to deal with differential pricing.
Research Interests:
The aim of the paper was to identify factors that influence venture capital financing in real estate development in Ghana. In achieving this, a quantitative research technique was untilised. Hence, based on a thorough literature review a... more
The aim of the paper was to identify factors that influence venture capital financing in real
estate development in Ghana. In achieving this, a quantitative research technique was
untilised. Hence, based on a thorough literature review a questionnaire was designed and
administered to members of Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA). Relative
Importance Index (RII) was use determined the level of significant of identified factors. The
results of the survey indicated that impact of high interest, collateral security, lack of ...
estate development in Ghana. In achieving this, a quantitative research technique was
untilised. Hence, based on a thorough literature review a questionnaire was designed and
administered to members of Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA). Relative
Importance Index (RII) was use determined the level of significant of identified factors. The
results of the survey indicated that impact of high interest, collateral security, lack of ...
Research Interests:
Over the past decade, value engineering (VE) has developed to become a recognized methodology with ordinarily comprehended tools and procedures. Its adoption in public projects in developed countries is credited with meeting stakeholders’... more
Over the past decade, value engineering (VE) has developed to become a recognized methodology with ordinarily
comprehended tools and procedures. Its adoption in public projects in developed countries is credited with meeting
stakeholders’ expectations. Although this may be so for construction industries in developed countries, the situation is
bleak for developing countries. This paper considers the challenges facing the successful implementation of VE in public
projects among developing countries. Using an empirical questionnaire survey, respondents were invited to rate their
perception of 22 challenges identified from literature. This paper is based on a survey of construction and consulting firms
based in Ghana. The data set was subjected to factor analysis. Correlations between the 22 variables show that five key
components underlie the challenges facing VE in developing countries. Findings and recommendations of this study may
be useful to construction professionals who are seeking innovative ways to enhance value for money.
comprehended tools and procedures. Its adoption in public projects in developed countries is credited with meeting
stakeholders’ expectations. Although this may be so for construction industries in developed countries, the situation is
bleak for developing countries. This paper considers the challenges facing the successful implementation of VE in public
projects among developing countries. Using an empirical questionnaire survey, respondents were invited to rate their
perception of 22 challenges identified from literature. This paper is based on a survey of construction and consulting firms
based in Ghana. The data set was subjected to factor analysis. Correlations between the 22 variables show that five key
components underlie the challenges facing VE in developing countries. Findings and recommendations of this study may
be useful to construction professionals who are seeking innovative ways to enhance value for money.
Research Interests:
The role of public procurement professionals in achieving value for money in public procurement activities is widely acknowledged around the globe. This has inspired the organisation of training programmes and workshops for procurement... more
The role of public procurement professionals in achieving value for money in public procurement activities is widely acknowledged around the globe. This has inspired the organisation of training programmes and workshops for procurement professionals, particularly those in developing countries in order to hone their knowledge and skills for proper management of government projects. This paper sought to explore the opportunities in networking for knowledge in capacity building of procurement professionals in Ghana. The study adopted mixed research methods for both data collection and analysis. The paper revealed that professional networking can offer procurement professionals the opportunity to acquire new knowledge from external professionals, knowing global trends about procurement practice and glean new information from other institutions about procurement. It is recommended that a platform that can support a network of procurement professionals in Ghana should be developed in order to ensure effective interaction and communication among procurement professionals for their capacity building.
Research Interests:
Quality of construction is a problem worldwide. The problem is serious and evident in both developed and developing countries. This study sought to explore the problems and critical success factors that impact on quality assurance for... more
Quality of construction is a problem worldwide. The problem is serious and evident in both developed and developing countries. This study sought to explore the problems and critical success factors that impact on quality assurance for public works procurement. The study adopted a mixed research approach. Data for the study was obtained through a questionnaire survey of 120 procurement officers (made up of works officers, quantity surveyors, architects, quality officers, amongst others). Data obtained from the study was analyzed by mean score rankings, one sample t-test and factor analysis. The findings from the study revealed that 'award of contract primarily on price', 'consultants acting on behalf of contractors', 'single contractors buying all tender documents',' poor workmanship', and 'lack of codes and standards' were the five major problems associated with public works procurement. The findings further showed that out of the 15 factors identified by the respondents as the critical quality assurance success factors for public works procurement, factor analysis enabled 10 of them to be placed under four components: 1)Procurement Systems comprising competitive bidding, contract review and application of quality standards; 2) Quality related factors comprising application of quality standards and material quality; 3) Contractor selection and training factors comprising competitive bidding, contractor selection framework and training policy and education; and 4) Project related factors comprising project supervision, motivation and quality recognition and information, specification and documentation. The study recommends that, Public Procurement Authority organizes regular training and education for procurement entities on non-traditional procurement systems and their impact on quality delivery of projects. Government policies and legislations relating to public procurement need to be further reviewed in order to incorporate quality assurance strategies at the initial phases of projects. The study will be of significance to major stakeholders of public procurement, educational institutions, construction professionals, contractors , among others who seek to achieve quality in their day to day transactions.
Research Interests:
Economic crisis and its growing antecedent continues to be a growing sensation in developing countries. The much anticipated growth by these countries can be measured by its industrial growth, especially with the construction industry. As... more
Economic crisis and its growing antecedent continues to be a growing sensation in developing countries. The much anticipated growth by these countries can be measured by its industrial growth, especially with the construction industry. As a result, clients in the determination of prices of the products in which their money can afford and at the same time ensuring value for money has recent times become a critical issue. Thus, the motivation of this study was to critically review literature as conduit for developing a conceptual framework that underpins Tender Price Index (TPI) development. On this basis, a conceptual framework was developed based on three main concepts including cost analysis, pricing and indices. In addition, these concepts are influenced by two indicators namely: Construction Industry Environment and Economic Environment. These indicators largely influence the Tender Price Index acting as external factors. This framework offers the basis for both stakeholders and researchers in the construction industry aiming at establishing a robust understanding for the development TPI.
Research Interests:
Cost planning practices in the construction industry worldwide has gained much popularity in recent times due to economic recession and stringent measures that various procurement laws prescribe in most developed and developing countries.... more
Cost planning practices in the construction industry worldwide has gained much popularity in recent times due to economic recession and stringent measures that various procurement laws prescribe in most developed and developing countries. Nevertheless, these practices in developing countries such as Ghana are constrained with the existence of critical barriers that render them non-effective and hence, accounting for the numerous abandonment of both private and public projects. Consequently, this study was enunciated with the aim to examine the critical barriers to the practice of effective cost planning in the Ghanaian construction industry. Through an in-depth literature review and a pilot survey, questionnaires were designed and administered to quantity surveyors. Data generated from the field survey was subjected to principal component analysis. The findings of the study revealed weak cost planning knowledge base, poor cost databases and understanding, inadequate designs and planning and external conditions are the major barriers to cost planning practices in the Ghanaian construction industry. The need for this study cannot be doubted since it provides an insight for experts in the construction industry on the barriers of the practice of cost planning in the industry. The awareness of these barriers will therefore facilitate efficient and effective efforts to resolve them. A future study is thereby proposed by this study to explore effective cost planning practices in the Ghanaian construction industry that will ensure private and public stakeholders get value for their money invested.
Research Interests:
Construction enterprises in Ghana are increasingly being criticized for works that fail to meet stakeholders' expectations, thus achieving project delivery within a reasonable amount of time; within budgeted amounts whilst ensuring... more
Construction enterprises in Ghana are increasingly being criticized for works that fail to meet stakeholders' expectations, thus achieving project delivery within a reasonable amount of time; within budgeted amounts whilst ensuring quality. Seemingly, Value management (VM) presents a solution to these problems via the generation of a wide variety of innovative alternatives. However, the concept of VM is in the route of finding a niche in the construction industry in Ghana. Hence, this study presents the strategies for implementing VM in the construction industry in Ghana. To do so, a structured questionnaire survey was used to elicit data from architects, civil engineers, quantity surveyors, project managers, and contract managers belonging to construction and consulting firms in the Ashanti region of Ghana. The results revealed that, development of a successful application model in the context of construction, clarifying clients' perceptions about VM, creation of VM workshops for construction professionals, creation of local guidelines and data on VM techniques, and application of effective techniques and tools in VM as the most significant strategies for implementing VM in the Ghanaian construction industry. The findings of this study may be beneficial to construction professionals who are in quest of innovative ways to implement VM on construction enterprises. A way forward is recommended for future development of VM in the Ghanaian construction industry.
Research Interests:
Tender price determination for every construction project remains a critical variables for a successful project delivery. For project participants it is the fundamental concept for which prices for project are appraised. Proper analysis... more
Tender price determination for every construction project remains a critical variables for a successful project delivery. For project participants it is the fundamental concept for which prices for project are appraised. Proper analysis of how much clients investment can afford within appreciable cost is hinged on the Tender Price Index (TPI), which gives and forecasts the average movement in building prices within a certain time frame and much treasured at design stage for effective cost planning The need for cognizant effort by quantity surveyors in giving a realistic price for project remains crucial due to the extent that clients are willing to spend within their budget peripheral. In the domain of accurate tender price index prediction researchers over the years have conjectured divergent views due to variances of statistical method adopted and their interpretations. This paper reviews various models adopted for prediction of TPI as a way of establishing need for further studies that will ensure more accurate prediction. The findings indicate that a combination of two statistical tools give more accurate prediction. In addition, variables used varies from one model to another which was compounded with a common statistical problem of non-stationary. This suggest that variables for tender price index prediction continues to vary from one geographical location to another, this is due to dynamism in economic indicators. Consequently, the need for development of a robust model cannot be shelved in any developing countries due to the fact that these countries have unstable market conditions.
Research Interests:
Professional Project Management Practice (PPMP) has become a modern technique for implementation of projects. However, in developing countries such as Ghana the practice has not seen much improvement in its implementation. Therefore, the... more
Professional Project Management Practice (PPMP) has become a modern technique for
implementation of projects. However, in developing countries such as Ghana the practice has not
seen much improvement in its implementation. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to determine
strategies that are important for effective practices of project management in the Ghanaian
Construction Industry (GCI). In order to ascertain these strategies, a mixed methodology approach
was adopted. Qualitative data was gathered through semi-structured interviews at the pilot survey
stage with twenty (20) stakeholders and on the quantitative approach one hundred and eighty three
(183) questionnaires were administered to professional project managers. Out of this, 143 were
retrieved which achieved a relatively high response of 78%. Subsequently, data was analysed using
mean score analysis (one sample t-test). Based on the findings of the survey and analysis, this paper
highlights six (6) most significant strategies for improving professional project management
practices. These strategies are ranked as: setting-up of institution for regulation of the practice,
stakeholder's engagement and round table discussions among project participants, policy makers
recognising the benefits of the practice and incorporating procurement laws thereby enforced to the
letter, continuous professional developments, awareness creation among organisations and
institutions and developing an attitude at the corporate level by treating any assignment as project
management task. The paper suggests strategies which, when adopted will help to improve the
performance of the construction industry as a whole. It is also the baseline on which, other
developing countries can enumerate upon for effective, efficient and comprehensive practices of
project managemen
implementation of projects. However, in developing countries such as Ghana the practice has not
seen much improvement in its implementation. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to determine
strategies that are important for effective practices of project management in the Ghanaian
Construction Industry (GCI). In order to ascertain these strategies, a mixed methodology approach
was adopted. Qualitative data was gathered through semi-structured interviews at the pilot survey
stage with twenty (20) stakeholders and on the quantitative approach one hundred and eighty three
(183) questionnaires were administered to professional project managers. Out of this, 143 were
retrieved which achieved a relatively high response of 78%. Subsequently, data was analysed using
mean score analysis (one sample t-test). Based on the findings of the survey and analysis, this paper
highlights six (6) most significant strategies for improving professional project management
practices. These strategies are ranked as: setting-up of institution for regulation of the practice,
stakeholder's engagement and round table discussions among project participants, policy makers
recognising the benefits of the practice and incorporating procurement laws thereby enforced to the
letter, continuous professional developments, awareness creation among organisations and
institutions and developing an attitude at the corporate level by treating any assignment as project
management task. The paper suggests strategies which, when adopted will help to improve the
performance of the construction industry as a whole. It is also the baseline on which, other
developing countries can enumerate upon for effective, efficient and comprehensive practices of
project managemen
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Cost planning remains an effective medium for administration of construction projects that devoid projects from being under-grouped either cost or time overruns. The construction industry all over the world, thus in both developed and... more
Cost planning remains an effective medium for administration of construction projects that devoid projects from being under-grouped either cost or time overruns. The construction industry all over the world, thus in both developed and developing countries are characterised with an issue of lack of effective cost planning practices before, during and after construction projects. It is imperative that construction professionals tackle the issue of cost planning with a professional edge using various effective techniques. However, in developing countries, effective cost planning remains pathetic and a major concern to construction stakeholders. For instance, in Ghana nothing can be construed in terms of measures used for effective cost planning. Hence, the abandonment of construction projects resulting from poor construction cost planning and control is a well-known phenomenon in the Ghanaian Construction Industry (GCI) with mass housing projects appearing to have been abandoned as progress of work has stalled over the years. In an attempt to address this problem of construction cost planning in the GCI, the aim of this paper is to examine the relevance for developing tender price index for effective cost planning in the GCI. Cast in the qualitative approach, and adopting content analysis stances, the study established that the relevance of developing tender price index for effective cost planning inevitably cannot be doubted. About 90% of the respondents agreed to this fact. Thus, the foregone research will contribute immensely to the improvement of GCI.
Research Interests:
The technical training institutions in Ghana have o ver the years contributed to the national development. These institutions however, face probl ems in the field of their operation in... more
The technical training institutions in Ghana have o
ver the years contributed to the national
development. These institutions however, face probl
ems in the field of their operation in the
environment. It appears that very little or no att
ention is being given to the growth of the operatin
g
environment of the technical training institutions
thereby rendering trained students inefficient for
the
job market. The purpose of this research is to inve
stigate the operating environment of the second
cycle Technical training Institutions in Ashanti re
gion by looking into these areas of concern;
development of syllabus, funding, entry requirement
and assessment. Questionnaires were distributed
to fifty two (52) institutions in gathering the inf
ormation, and out that of thirty-nine (39) was retr
ieved
represent 75% of data collected. The data collected
was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The
results revealed that most of the training institut
ions have little knowledge in the above areas of
concern and also theoretical aspect of training is
much more than the practical in the aspect of sylla
bus
and assessment. Again, it also came to the limeligh
t that the grade of acceptance to various programs
is those below average. In conclusion, technical ed
ucation has become bedrock and catalyst to the
growth of every developing nation. It is therefore,
important that policy makers should consider the
need to making technical education more accessible
and innovative enough to attract the youth by
creating avenues that seeks to engage prospective s
tudents after graduation.
ver the years contributed to the national
development. These institutions however, face probl
ems in the field of their operation in the
environment. It appears that very little or no att
ention is being given to the growth of the operatin
g
environment of the technical training institutions
thereby rendering trained students inefficient for
the
job market. The purpose of this research is to inve
stigate the operating environment of the second
cycle Technical training Institutions in Ashanti re
gion by looking into these areas of concern;
development of syllabus, funding, entry requirement
and assessment. Questionnaires were distributed
to fifty two (52) institutions in gathering the inf
ormation, and out that of thirty-nine (39) was retr
ieved
represent 75% of data collected. The data collected
was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The
results revealed that most of the training institut
ions have little knowledge in the above areas of
concern and also theoretical aspect of training is
much more than the practical in the aspect of sylla
bus
and assessment. Again, it also came to the limeligh
t that the grade of acceptance to various programs
is those below average. In conclusion, technical ed
ucation has become bedrock and catalyst to the
growth of every developing nation. It is therefore,
important that policy makers should consider the
need to making technical education more accessible
and innovative enough to attract the youth by
creating avenues that seeks to engage prospective s
tudents after graduation.
The lack of Professional Project Management Practices (PPMP) particularly in developing countries has led to low productivity and poor quality of work. Though professional project management is an evolving discipline, the application of... more
The lack of Professional Project Management Practices (PPMP) particularly in developing countries has led to low productivity and poor quality of work. Though professional project management is an evolving discipline, the application of effective construction project management techniques in many developing countries still constitute a serious challenge. This research therefore seeks to ascertain, through literature, factors affecting the professional project management practice in developing African countries. The study identified lack of knowledge, high bureaucratic, political, and economic constraints, leadership, and organisation culture, misunderstanding of the PM concepts, and lack of appropriate software as the emerging constraints to the development of professional project management practices. Finally, PPMP require a broad knowledge base and skills. The need for organizational learning and more rigorous training for managers and staff are thereby recommended.
Evidence of Professional Project Management Practices in the Ghanaian Construction Industry (GCI) dates back to the 1980s. However, to date not much has been achieved in its advancement and deployment especially in an era where project... more
Evidence of Professional Project Management Practices in the Ghanaian
Construction Industry (GCI) dates back to the 1980s. However, to date not much
has been achieved in its advancement and deployment especially in an era where
project management is considered as an important management philosophy in
achieving project success. This paper reports on a study to determine the constraints
that exist in the advancement of project management practices in the GCI. The
paper adopted a two-stage data-gathering approach involving qualitative and
quantitative techniques. The qualitative approach helped in identifying eighteen
(18) Project Management (PM) variables that stakeholders believe are posing
challenges to effective PM practices in Ghana. Out of the eighteen variables, nine
supported existing literature while the remaining nine appear to be peculiar to the
Ghanaian context. Subsequently, questionnaire containing the eighteen (18)
variables were administered to 183 professionals who are involved in PM practices
and then subjected to factor analysis. The paper highlights five (5) major underlying
constraints namely: weak project management knowledge base, lack of clearly
defined role for project managers, poor understanding of procurement practices,
weak institutional framework and poor communication practices. The paper
therefore recommends that, it is important for these underlying factors to be
addressed conscientiously as they provide firm basis for advancing professional
project management practices in the GCI.
Construction Industry (GCI) dates back to the 1980s. However, to date not much
has been achieved in its advancement and deployment especially in an era where
project management is considered as an important management philosophy in
achieving project success. This paper reports on a study to determine the constraints
that exist in the advancement of project management practices in the GCI. The
paper adopted a two-stage data-gathering approach involving qualitative and
quantitative techniques. The qualitative approach helped in identifying eighteen
(18) Project Management (PM) variables that stakeholders believe are posing
challenges to effective PM practices in Ghana. Out of the eighteen variables, nine
supported existing literature while the remaining nine appear to be peculiar to the
Ghanaian context. Subsequently, questionnaire containing the eighteen (18)
variables were administered to 183 professionals who are involved in PM practices
and then subjected to factor analysis. The paper highlights five (5) major underlying
constraints namely: weak project management knowledge base, lack of clearly
defined role for project managers, poor understanding of procurement practices,
weak institutional framework and poor communication practices. The paper
therefore recommends that, it is important for these underlying factors to be
addressed conscientiously as they provide firm basis for advancing professional
project management practices in the GCI.
In many developing countries such as Ghana project management theory has gained enough attention and popularity as a useful means for achieving project success. To this extent, Ghana has recently added impetus to this popularity by for... more
In many developing countries such as Ghana project management
theory has gained enough attention and popularity as a useful means for
achieving project success. To this extent, Ghana has recently added
impetus to this popularity by for the first time specifically mentioning
and recognizing the title project manager (PM) in the procurement Act
(Act 663 of 2003). However, almost a decade on, it is not quite clear yet
how this significant recognition has helped in fully integrating
professional project management practices (PPMP) as a core
managerial function in the Ghanaian Construction industry (GCI). To
help bring the reality of the issue to a sharp focus, a survey was
undertaken on major construction projects to establish the status of
project management practice especially in the aftermath of the
enactment of the procurement act. The methodology involved
assessing the presence of professionals by virtue of the designations
displaced on construction billboards and also interview of site
managers/contractors/clients of the various sites. The findings
revealed that out of 30 project sites surveyed, only 3 representing
(10%) specifically had the title PM reflecting on the billboard.
Interviews with the site managers also suggest that many are not aware
of the specific role PMs are to play on project sites. It is concluded that,
even though the procurement act specifically mentions the PM, the
correct interpretation of their roles and their integration in project
management practice in the GCI is not yet clearly establish. The
implication of this study is for all stakeholders and policy makers to
revisit the drawing board towards a more pragmatic approach in
engendering the advancement of PPMP in the GCI
theory has gained enough attention and popularity as a useful means for
achieving project success. To this extent, Ghana has recently added
impetus to this popularity by for the first time specifically mentioning
and recognizing the title project manager (PM) in the procurement Act
(Act 663 of 2003). However, almost a decade on, it is not quite clear yet
how this significant recognition has helped in fully integrating
professional project management practices (PPMP) as a core
managerial function in the Ghanaian Construction industry (GCI). To
help bring the reality of the issue to a sharp focus, a survey was
undertaken on major construction projects to establish the status of
project management practice especially in the aftermath of the
enactment of the procurement act. The methodology involved
assessing the presence of professionals by virtue of the designations
displaced on construction billboards and also interview of site
managers/contractors/clients of the various sites. The findings
revealed that out of 30 project sites surveyed, only 3 representing
(10%) specifically had the title PM reflecting on the billboard.
Interviews with the site managers also suggest that many are not aware
of the specific role PMs are to play on project sites. It is concluded that,
even though the procurement act specifically mentions the PM, the
correct interpretation of their roles and their integration in project
management practice in the GCI is not yet clearly establish. The
implication of this study is for all stakeholders and policy makers to
revisit the drawing board towards a more pragmatic approach in
engendering the advancement of PPMP in the GCI
This paper sought to discuss entrepreneurial learning competencies by determining the outcome of entrepreneurial learning on the views of built environment students in the university setting. In this study, three relevant competencies... more
This paper sought to discuss entrepreneurial learning competencies by determining the outcome of
entrepreneurial learning on the views of built environment students in the university setting. In this study, three
relevant competencies were identified for entrepreneurial learning through literature, namely: entrepreneurial
attitude, entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of entrepreneurship. On this basis, questionnaire was designed and
administered to graduate students in built environment. In all, a total of 124 questionnaires were administered to
respondents. Out this, 84 were retrieved representing a response rate of 68% and were further subjected to
analysis using Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings from the study highlighted on competencies factors
that have great impact on entrepreneurs in dealing with tasks and problems related to entrepreneurial learning
processes. These key entrepreneurial competencies as perceived by the built environment students were ranked
as: entrepreneurial attitude, knowledge of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial skill. The findings may help
stakeholders in the building industry including up-coming graduate students. Thus, it could help in their journey
into entrepreneurial terrain affiliated to advancement of their career, as a way to increase private wealth and the
pursuit of a more balanced life.
entrepreneurial learning on the views of built environment students in the university setting. In this study, three
relevant competencies were identified for entrepreneurial learning through literature, namely: entrepreneurial
attitude, entrepreneurial skills and knowledge of entrepreneurship. On this basis, questionnaire was designed and
administered to graduate students in built environment. In all, a total of 124 questionnaires were administered to
respondents. Out this, 84 were retrieved representing a response rate of 68% and were further subjected to
analysis using Relative Importance Index (RII). The findings from the study highlighted on competencies factors
that have great impact on entrepreneurs in dealing with tasks and problems related to entrepreneurial learning
processes. These key entrepreneurial competencies as perceived by the built environment students were ranked
as: entrepreneurial attitude, knowledge of entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial skill. The findings may help
stakeholders in the building industry including up-coming graduate students. Thus, it could help in their journey
into entrepreneurial terrain affiliated to advancement of their career, as a way to increase private wealth and the
pursuit of a more balanced life.
Basically, the purpose of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is to equip people with the technical and professional skills needed for socio-economic and industrial development of the country. The emphasis is on... more
Basically, the purpose of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is to equip people with the
technical and professional skills needed for socio-economic and industrial development of the country. The
emphasis is on training people for self-employment. This paper highlights the importance of (TVET), its policy
framework to promote science and technology and its curriculum design and delivery to meet the labour market.
Literature reviewed indicated that the Government of Ghana recognizes the strengthening of TVET as a means
of developing the technical and skilled human resource base which the nation needs urgently as a key strategy
for achieving its industrial development. It was noted that, to achieve this objective, requires a policy framework
and direction as well as a radical shift in the design and delivery of the TVET curriculum at all levels. The paper
suggested that Competency Based Training (CBT) should be included in the TVET curriculum design and
delivery at all levels of TVET institutions to help promote skill acquisition and industrial development. The
paper also highlighted that, it is the people with requisite scientific and technological education and technical
skills who can create wealth and help a country to attain economic prosperity and industrial development.
technical and professional skills needed for socio-economic and industrial development of the country. The
emphasis is on training people for self-employment. This paper highlights the importance of (TVET), its policy
framework to promote science and technology and its curriculum design and delivery to meet the labour market.
Literature reviewed indicated that the Government of Ghana recognizes the strengthening of TVET as a means
of developing the technical and skilled human resource base which the nation needs urgently as a key strategy
for achieving its industrial development. It was noted that, to achieve this objective, requires a policy framework
and direction as well as a radical shift in the design and delivery of the TVET curriculum at all levels. The paper
suggested that Competency Based Training (CBT) should be included in the TVET curriculum design and
delivery at all levels of TVET institutions to help promote skill acquisition and industrial development. The
paper also highlighted that, it is the people with requisite scientific and technological education and technical
skills who can create wealth and help a country to attain economic prosperity and industrial development.
The Procurement of Act 663 (2003) of Ghana was promulgated to sanitize the procurement management process with the ultimate aim of ensuring value for money. Since its introduction in 2003, various evaluation reports have come up with a... more
The Procurement of Act 663 (2003) of Ghana was promulgated to sanitize the procurement
management process with the ultimate aim of ensuring value for money. Since its introduction in 2003,
various evaluation reports have come up with a number of strategies to ensure full compliance in
public organizations. The aim of the study was to establish the extent to which district education offices
adhere to Act 663; to identify the weakness associated with the practice and to propose
recommendations for high level of compliance. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative
research approaches in data collection involving five selected districts in Ashanti region namely
Ashanti Akim Central, Asante Akim South, Bosome-Freho, Ejisu-Juaben and Sekyere East. Relative
Importance Index (RII) was used to analyze data collected. The study revealed low compliance level of
42.42 percent implying a huge compliance deficit of 57.58 percent. The study further identified contract
management, lack of procurement units, lack of proper procurements plans, inadequate use of standard
tender documents and high propensity to use sole sourcing method without recourse to Section 40 of
Act 663 were identified as weaknesses areas. These weaknesses have negative implications in
procurement management practices. It is therefore recommended that procurement units should be
established in all the district education offices in Ghana, more importantly, these units should be
provided someone with technical expertise in procurement. Similarly, under the auspices the Public
Procurement Authority (PPA), refresher courses in procurement management should be organized for
district education officers involved in procurement duties. The on-going review of the Act 663 should
conspicuously spell out the composition of the Tender Committee at the district education offices. It is
anticipated that if these suggestions are enforced, the current level of compliance of the Act 663(2003)
would be improved in the district education offices.
management process with the ultimate aim of ensuring value for money. Since its introduction in 2003,
various evaluation reports have come up with a number of strategies to ensure full compliance in
public organizations. The aim of the study was to establish the extent to which district education offices
adhere to Act 663; to identify the weakness associated with the practice and to propose
recommendations for high level of compliance. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative
research approaches in data collection involving five selected districts in Ashanti region namely
Ashanti Akim Central, Asante Akim South, Bosome-Freho, Ejisu-Juaben and Sekyere East. Relative
Importance Index (RII) was used to analyze data collected. The study revealed low compliance level of
42.42 percent implying a huge compliance deficit of 57.58 percent. The study further identified contract
management, lack of procurement units, lack of proper procurements plans, inadequate use of standard
tender documents and high propensity to use sole sourcing method without recourse to Section 40 of
Act 663 were identified as weaknesses areas. These weaknesses have negative implications in
procurement management practices. It is therefore recommended that procurement units should be
established in all the district education offices in Ghana, more importantly, these units should be
provided someone with technical expertise in procurement. Similarly, under the auspices the Public
Procurement Authority (PPA), refresher courses in procurement management should be organized for
district education officers involved in procurement duties. The on-going review of the Act 663 should
conspicuously spell out the composition of the Tender Committee at the district education offices. It is
anticipated that if these suggestions are enforced, the current level of compliance of the Act 663(2003)
would be improved in the district education offices.