Delay Management in Construction Projects in the Gaza Strip -Clients Perspectives

Abstract

Most of construction projects in Gaza Strip are suffering from delay due to borders closure and shortage of materials in markets. This delay has had an effect on all parties which work in construction sector. The effects of delay could be traced to cost overrun, loss of efforts, and suspension of work, contract termination and huge problem between parties of contract. The aim of this study is to identify the major causes of delays in construction projects in the Gaza Strip, the effects of delays, methods of minimizing delays in construction project. It also aims to develop a mathematical model for management of construction project delays in order to mitigate the negative impact of delay. The objectives of the study were achieved through two approaches; the first one was a valid questionnaire that was obtained from client organization that works in Gaza Strip. The second by case study approach showing analytical data was used to collect actual data from sixty nine projects that were constructed during the period from (2005-2007). The results showed that the most important factors that contributed to the causes of delays include political situation, shortage of construction materials, unethical behaviors used by contractors to achieve the highest possible level of profit, contractor un commitment to consultant instructions, and low motivation and morale. The study illustrated that time and cost overrun were the common effects of delays in construction projects. The results showed that adequate and available source of finance, competent project manager, and site management and supervision were the most effective methods of minimizing delays. From the result of this study the appropriate model was established by using Factor analysis from a stepwise multiple regression analysis on the delay factors. The model is able to predicts the delay in project before it happens; it gives the client a chance to make suitable procedures which lead to the reduction of the negative effects that include cost overrun, disputes', claims and so on. The study recommended clients to use the developed predictive model to measure delay of project. Project managers can use this model to assess the delay level of a construction project. Assessments of likely project outcomes can be ascertained during construction and any necessary correction actions can be initiated.