Relevance of Contractors’ Prequalification Criteria to Time Performance of Civil Engineering Project

Abstract

Abstract:Civil engineering project completion within predetermined time schedule is usually the desire of the client and every other stakeholder. This has been a mirage because project in this case often fails to meet time target as a result of challenges emanating from its various peculiar characteristics. Civil engineering project completion within estimated time target can be achieved by adopting appropriate contractors' selection criteria. This research therefore reflected Quantity Surveyors' and Civil/Structural Engineers' perception on the relevance of contractors' prequalification criteria to time performance of civil engineering project. The purpose was to determine the impact of contractors' selection criteria on time performance of civil engineering project, revealed the contractor prequalification criteria impacting most on time performance of civil engineering project. The primary data used were obtained from construction professionals in consulting, client and contracting organizations engaging in both private and public projects through a well designed questionnaire. Regression analysis and Karl Pearson's coefficient of correlation were employed to evaluate the impact as well as relationship between contractors' prequalification criteria and time performance of civil engineering project. Contractors' prequalification criteria had both positive and negative relationship with time performance of civil engineering project at varying degree of significance. Also, contractors' prequalification criteria significantly impact on and differently predict time performance of civil engineering project. Therefore, prioritizing reputation and past performance as well as strict adherence to the impact order of the set of criteria for contractors' prequalification listed in this study would lead to achievement of civil engineering project that meet time target.