Exploring the use of contemporary methods of construction in the Ghanaian construction industry

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Date
2021-06-17
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Abstract
Contemporary construction involves the process of preparation, scheming, manufacturing, moving and assembling building elements for fast site assembly. Although the use of contemporary methods of construction provides several significant advantages and it can help solve problems associated with duration of work, quality and further reduce cost when compared to ‗traditional construction‘ which is widely practiced in the Ghanaian construction industry. In an attempt to address this issues, a study was carried out to help simplify the Ghanaian construction industry‘s‘ perception on contemporary construction methods and establish how it would help improve real estate development industry. To achieve this aim, the objectives were; to identify the extent of awareness of contemporary methods of construction, identify the challenges associated with the implementation of these methods of construction and identify strategies needed to alleviate the challenges inhabiting the implementation of these methods to resolve social housing needs in Ghana. The study was positioned in the positivist paradigm which enabled the researcher to make an objective analysis by using the quantitative research strategy which involved a questionnaire survey. A sum total of One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were administered and One hundred and twenty (120) responses were retrieved from Project managers, Quantity surveyors, Architects, suppliers and manufacturers of off-site produced building components and Site Engineers all from construction related firms in Accra and Kumasi. The data was then statistically analysed and found that contemporary methods of construction reduce material waste, improves product quality, improves safety on site, increases profits and helps reduce construction duration. The challenges that were dominant were transportation restraints, the rigid nature inhibiting changes on site and restricted design options. Recommendations such as; forums and teachings about the changing and the use of construction methods should be held periodically for building practitioners in major firms. Comparative value analysis should be done for both traditional and contemporary methods of construction especially on cost for the clients‘ consideration.
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A thesis submitted to the Department of Construction Technology and Management, College of Art and Built Environment in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Science.
Keywords
Exploring, contemporary methods, Construction, Ghanaian Construction industry
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