Performance of construction projects: Perception of owners in Palestine

Abstract

Management of construction projects in Palestine has faced many problems due to various reasons, such as political uncertainty, scarcity of materials and equipment, and lack of regulation. The performance of construction projects in the Gaza Strip has been a source of concern for contracting parties. This paper presents the findings of a questionnaire survey conducted on the main factors affecting the performance of construction projects in the Gaza Strip. 25 questionnaires were randomly distributed to owners and 17 questionnaires were received (68% respondent rate). Sixty three factors were identified, categorized into ten groups, evaluated and ranked from the owners' perspectives. The most important factors which affect the performance of construction projects were average delay because of closures and materials shortage, availability of resources as planned through project duration, leadership skills of project managers, escalation of material prices, availability of personnel with high experience and qualification, and quality of equipments and raw materials in project. Innovation and learning was the highest ranked group according to the respondents. It is recommended that a new contract awarding approach by giving less weight to prices and more weight to the capabilities and past performance of contractors should be adopted. It is necessary to establish proper industry regulations and appropriate mechanism for proper contractors' enforcement. Owners are recommended to facilitate payment to contractors in order to overcome delay, disputes and claims.