Assessment of Communication Practices adopted for Managing Construction Projects in Abuja

Abstract

Communication enables exchange of ideas and instruction from one person to another. In the construction industry, effective communication among project participants helps to improve the level of understanding in order to achieve project objectives. This study assessed the communication practices adopted for managing construction projects in Abuja. The study employed data from key stakeholders who are actively involved in construction projects domiciled in Abuja, where a total number of 155 questionnaires were administered, with 132 returned. Subsequently, 30 interviews were carried out with key stakeholders to elicit responses regarding some objectives of the research. Key findings of the study indicated that drawings are the most used mode of communication. Language was the most frequently stated as a barrier to effective communication by all the stakeholders. Furthermore, the site operatives were the most difficult people to communicate with during project construction phase. The Mechanical engineers, Quantity surveyors and Civil engineers communicate frequently with the Architects. The outcome of this research highlights practical implications for the construction project team regarding communication practices adopted. It further exposed the need for effective communication among stakeholders in the construction for achieving project goals.