Why Construction Projects are delayed in PWA: Problems and Solutions

Abstract

Construction is, by its nature, complex and uncertain. Changes and variations are inherently part of many construction projects, which require serious efforts to overcome. Project delay is a construction problem resulting in contractual claims, increased project cost, and decreased end-user satisfaction. This study investigates the root causes of project delay in Public Works Authority construction projects and gathers different perceptions on the causes of delay to propose a solution matrix that mitigate the effect of those delays and prevents its reoccurrence in future projects. A sample of over two-handed projects in 2021 have been granted an extension of time to its original completion date have been studied to identify and analyse the root causes of project delay and the risk relevant to the project delivery being prolonged. For these reasons, a categorization of delay has been adopted, and every cause of delay has been coded. The method adopted to identify the top root causes of project delay was the Pareto Analysis (Pareto analysis is premised on the idea that 80% of problems can be traced to 20% of the causes). The result of the study was the development of a holistic solution matrix to address the root causes of delay. The solution consists of two parts, (1) identify the relevant corrective, immediate and preventive actions, and (2) develop a responsibility matrix for the implementation of those solutions to ensure its governance.