Relationship between delay and productivity in construction projects

Abstract

This study is conducted to recognize the major delay factors, the major construction productivity factors, and to establish the relationship between productivity and delay in construction projects in Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire survey is performed to achieve study objectives. Fourteen time overrun factors and 13 construction productivity factors are listed in a questionnaire form. Fifty contractors consultants are asked to rank the identified factors according to their importance. The study also addresses the relationship between labor productivity and time overrun based on data collected from 34 building projects implemented in Saudi Arabia. Results conclude that the top factors affecting delay in construction projects are: poor labor productivity, poor coordination between construction parties, lack of adequate manpower, bid award for lowest price, and mistakes in design. It also indicates that the major labor productivity factors are: payments delay, lack of labor experience, frequent change orders, rework, and financial conditions of the contractor are ranked overall as the top 13 factors affecting labor productivity on construction sites. Regression analysis for data collected from 34 building projects indicates a strong correlation between the delay and labor productivity. It is hoped that the results of this study will be helpful for construction parties and researchers in Palestine and other developed and developing countries.