PROJECT PROPOSAL

Tittle
Assessing the impact of emerging technologies on
onsite construction material management in
Zimbabwe construction industry.
1. INTRODUCTION
The Zimbabwe construction industry is facing a
lot challenges due to lack of emerging
technologies. The construction industry in
Zimbabwe, historically relied on traditional
methods for onsite material management.
Older techniques often included manual
inventory tracking, paper-based
documentation, and rudimentary
communication systems. These methods were
characterized by their inefficiency, delays and
susceptibility to human error. (Jain ,2020).
For instance, workers would manually count
materials and record them on paper logs,
which could lead to discrepancies between
actual inventory levels and what was recorded.
As the construction sector evolves, there is a growing recognition of the need for more
efficient and effective material management practices. Emerging technologies are
beginning to reshape how materials are tracked, managed, and utilized onsite.
(Hezen ,2022). One significant advancement is the adoption of Building Information
Modelling (BIM), which allows for digital representations of physical and functional
characteristics of construction projects. BIM enables stakeholders to visualize the entire
project lifecycle, facilitating better planning and coordination among teams. This
technology not only enhances accuracy in material estimation but also improves
collaboration by providing a shared platform for all parties involved. Therefore
architects, engineers, contractors and suppliers access information on material
quantities, location and reporting through use of databases or barcodes. (Springfield,
2019).

Another notable innovation is the use of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in material
management. According to (Webb ,2019) the IoT sensors can be attached to materials
or equipment to provide real-time data on their location and condition. This technology
1.1 BACKGROUND

Traditionally, material management in the Zimbabwean construction industry relied heavily on

manual processes. These included physical inventory checks, paper-based documentation for
procurement and logistics, and rudimentary tracking systems. Such methods were often prone to
human error, inefficiencies due to miscommunication among stakeholders, and delays caused by
logistical challenges (Chikozho,2019).

The construction industry in Zimbabwe faces significant challenges due to the inadequate
adoption of emerging technologies for onsite material management. (Macken,2020). Traditional
methods of tracking and managing materials often lead to inefficiencies, including delays,
increased costs, and wastage. The lack of real-time data access affects decision-making
processes, resulting in poor inventory control and misallocation of resources. (Johnson, 2022).
Furthermore, the absence of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM),
Internet of Things (IoT) applications, and automated inventory systems limits the industry’s ability
to optimize workflows and enhance productivity. (Loganathan, 2017). This technological gap not
only affects project timelines but also compromises the overall quality of construction outputs
Also, due to a lack of emerging technologies in onsite construction material management.
This deficiency has resulted in inefficiencies, increased costs, and delays in project
completion. Previous studies have highlighted various aspects of these issues, emphasizing
the need for modern solutions to enhance material management practices. For instance,
(Moyo ,2019) conducted a study that identified the critical role of technology in improving
inventory management and reducing wastage on construction sites. Their findings suggest
that adopting digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) can streamline
processes and improve accuracy in material tracking. Moreover, (Chikozho ,2020) explored
the impact of traditional procurement methods on material management efficiency within
the Zimbabwean construction industry. The study revealed that reliance on outdated
practices often leads to miscommunication between stakeholders and poor forecasting of
material needs, which exacerbates delays and cost overruns. The research advocates for
integrating advanced technologies like RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) systems to
enhance real-time tracking of materials and improve overall site logistics.
1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

The construction industry in Zimbabwe faces numerous challenges, particularly in the management of
onsite materials. The lack of emerging technologies exacerbates these issues, leading to inefficiencies,
increased costs, and project delays. According to (Kariuki ,2021) Zimbabwe’s World Bank manager, the
country’s construction industry is recovering slowly from past economic challenges but remains
hampered by outdated practices and insufficient investment in technology. The reliance on traditional
methods for managing onsite materials is resulting waste, mismanagement, and ultimately affects
project timelines and budgets. Also, due to lack of emerging technologies there was inefficient material
tracking resulting in delays in projects. (Mukwena ,2020). Thus, the traditional methods such as manual
inventory checks are prevalent in Zimbabwe’s construction sites. Without advanced tracking systems
like RFID or barcode scanning, it becomes difficult to monitor material usage accurately.
(Mawocha ,2016). For instance, the construction of the Robert Mugabe International Airport Expansion
Project in 2018, faced wastage attributed to poor material tracking systems that resulted in over-
ordering (Munyoro, 2022). Due to inadequate tracking mechanisms, there was a tendency to over-order
materials. Thus, excess materials can become damaged or obsolete if they are not used promptly. The
implementation of RFID technology could have streamlined inventory processes, reduced costs and
1.3 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

[Link] are the benefits of emerging technologies onsite construction material management in
Zimbabwe.

[Link] are the common challenges faced by construction companies when implementing
emerging technologies on the construction material onsite.

[Link] are the emerging technologies that can be used to manage onsite construction material in
Zimbabwe’s construction industry.

1.4 AIM

To investigate the impact of emerging technology in managing materials onsite in the construction
industry of Zimbabwe.

1.5 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

[Link] access the how emerging technology affects on site material management in the Zimbabwe
construction industry.

[Link] identify strategies that can be implemented to overcome challenges faced when
1.6 HYPOTHESIS

H0: The adoption of emerging technology do not have the capacity to manage materials on site in the
Zimbabwe construction industry.

H1: The adoption of emerging technologies significantly improves the management of construction
materials on site.

1.7 JUSTIFICATION

Thus, due to challenges faced in the Zimbabwe construction industry such as delays, increase in costs
and wastages, emerging technology plays an important role in mitigating these challenges. This
involves the use of cloud-based material tracking which involves the use of cloud computing
technology to monitor, manage, and store data related to materials used in various projects,
particularly in construction and manufacturing. (Morse, 2021) .This system allows for real-time tracking
of materials from procurement through delivery and usage on-site. The integration of cloud technology
enhances accessibility, collaboration, and efficiency in managing material inventories. automates the
entire inventory tracking process, which helps to monitor stock levels and their movements in real-
time. (Gowri ,2023). Cloud-based material tracking facilitates real-time communication between
reducing errors and improving inventory management (Cheng, 2020). Automated alerts and
notifications ensure timely communication, allowing for issue resolution and feedback, fostering
strong supplier relationships and increasing productivity (Kumar et al., 2018). Thus effective
communication through Internet of Things is crucial in material management, as it minimizes delays,
reduces material waste and loss, and enhances collaboration (Wang, 2020). Research has shown
that effective communication can reduce errors by 50% and improve inventory management by 30%
(Liu, 2019). Moreover, strong supplier relationships, fostered through effective communication, can
lead to improved material quality and reduced lead times (Kumar et al., 2018). Hence, minimized
delays waiting for materials or return of unwanted materials.

1.8 DELIMITATIONS

This research focus will be limited to Harare and Bulawayo due to limited time and
resources .Therefore other cities where construction works takes place will not be considered .The
study also considers large-scale construction projects ,excluding small scale or residential projects.

1.9 DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS

be developed in the near future. In the context of construction, these may include
advancements such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), drones for surveying, and 3D
printing of materials. According to Ashworth and Hogg (2017), emerging technologies can
significantly enhance efficiency and productivity in construction projects

Onsite materials

It refers to the physical construction materials that are present at a specific construction
site. These materials can include a wide range of items such as concrete, steel, timber,
bricks, insulation, and finishes that are required for the execution of a building project. The
management and control of these materials are crucial for ensuring that projects are
completed on time and within budget. (Kirkman,2015).

Material Onsite Management

Onsite construction material management involves the planning, control, and monitoring of
materials used on a construction site to ensure that they are available when needed while
minimizing waste and costs. Effective material management is crucial for maintaining
project timelines and budgets. Proper onsite management can lead to reduced delays and
LITERATURE REVIEW
The chapter will look to review existing and obtainable literature on
the adoption of emerging technology in managing materials on site.
Various number of contributions by different authors and construction
professionals which have immense knowledge of emerging technology
and its impact in managing materials onsite were utilized to fill the
research gap shown in the research objectives. The review will
examine various technologies including drones, Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID), material kitting and artificial intelligence (AI) and
will analyse their potential impact on material onsite management in
the construction industry as well as the challenge being faced with
regard to the use of these emerging technology by construction firms.

2.1 THEORETICAL FORMWORK

The Resource Dependency Theory, one of the theories previously
mentioned, will be used specifically for this study because it explains
how an idea or product spreads within a particular system over time.
In the context of this study, it relates to how emerging technologies in
construction material management arise and how they are being
implemented over time along with the other theories previously
mentioned
2.3 Emerging technologies being used for material management in the construction industry of
Zimbabwe.

Radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology is a modern, innovative technology that has also
proved to be effective in improving material tracking in several ways (Salminem, 2016). According to
Kang (2019), RFID technology enables real-time tracking of construction material movement, enabling
construction managers to keep track of the location and movement of materials. This helps to reduce
the risk of theft and loss of materials and equipment, which can result in significant financial losses for
construction companies. (Jeon, 2018) adds on to say that RFID technology helps construction
managers to monitor the inventory levels of materials and equipment and to ensure that they are
adequately stocked. This helps to prevent delays in construction projects caused by a shortage of
materials or equipment. RFID technology can also help to improve the accuracy of material
management by reducing the risk of human error (Karna, 2016). RFID tags can be programmed with
accurate information about materials, which can be automatically updated as they are moved or used
on the construction site (Lee, 2018) .

2.4 Challenges hindering Effective Implementation of emerging technologies in material management.

Richer (2018) ,also acknowledged the challenges further hindering the implementation of these
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Philosophy

Research philosophy refers to the use of abstract ideas and beliefs that
inform a particular research (Cresswell, 2013

Positivism is a research philosophy that emphasizes the use of scientific

methods to test hypotheses and theories. It focusses on objective,
measurable data and seeks to establish casual relationships between
variables. It would be best applicable to this research as it seeks to identify
emerging technologies being used in construction material management
and determine their impact in the industry

3.2 Research Approach

This study will make use of the mixed method which incorporates both
quantitative and qualitative data .

3.3 Study Area

(Creswell, 2015). The area of study will be based in Harare and Bulawayo. These two cities are
chosen mainly because 90% of the building and civil engineering contractors and consultants
registered under category A to H of the Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (CIFOZ) are
located in these two cities respectively (CIFOZ, 2021)

3.4 Target Population

It represents a specific sector within a large population that is best suited to serve as a primary
source of data during the research (Dudovskiy, 2016). The researcher will collect data from
registered Engineers, contractors and registered building material suppliers and Quantity Surveyors.

3.5 Sampling Technique

To collect quantitative data, stratified random sampling will be used. The researcher used stratified sampling
which is a probability sampling technique that involves selecting individuals according to a predetermined
sequence

3.6 Sample Size

The sample size refers to the number of units that are chosen from which data is gathered (Shapiro,
2018)

.Voohis and 30%.(2015)