INVESTIGATION ON FACTORS AFFECTING EFFECTIVE MATERIAL MANAGEMENT IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: THE CASE STUDY OF CONTRACTORS OPERATING IN ARBA MINCH TOWN

Abstract

Material is the main component in building construction projects. An essential factor adversely affecting the performance of construction projects is the improper handling of materials during site activities. The aim of this paper is to investigate the factors affecting effective material management in Arba Minch building construction projects. Questionnaire surveys together with case study of five building construction projects used to collect data on challenges and factors affecting material management. Out of twenty questionnaires distributed to concerned peoples for material management in case study projects, seventeen questionnaires received and analyzed by using relative importance index method. The study shows that the main challenges facing contractors in materials management activities were lack of capable suppliers, fluctuation of prices of materials, financial problem and distance between supplier’s depots and project site. Respondents identified 45 factors affecting effective material management for Arba Minch case. The results shows that: inadequate preconstruction survey on material, engaging inadequate skill on labor, delayed payments, insufficient supervision at site and control, damage by mishandling and re-work due to poor workmanship, and over crowdedness of work place were the highest factors. The most factors identified by this research are delay in delivery of materials, lack of complete recording and documentation and late purchasing of materials. Based on the findings, it recommended that adequate preconstruction survey on material availability and recording prices of materials in market. In addition, contractors are recommended to provide proper supervision at site and should be engaged competent and experienced personnel on site to enhance material management practice.