CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF DESIGN VARIATION IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Code No: 549828

₦5,000.00

ABSTRACT

Variation is one of the most severe problems in the construction industry. This variation occurs in every construction project and the magnitude of these variations varies considerably from project to project. As such, the client had to spend more than what was initially estimated in most cases, sometimes, disputes and unnecessary delays occur due to variations. This study focused to investigate causes and effects of design variation in road construction project in Akwa Ibom State. The objectives were to examine the causes of design variation, to investigate the effects of design variation in road construction projects and examine measures to minimizing its occurrence. Relevant literature review on causes and effects of design variation in road construction projects were carried out and an elaborate field survey was undertaken to verify the objectives of this study. A total of 62 questionnaires were collected against 68 questionnaires distributed among professionals in the construction industry, representing 91% response rate. The data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to the professionals were analysed using simple random sampling technique. The results revealed that change in clientâ€™s opinions was the most predominant cause of variation. Others are consultant and contractorsâ€™ factors were also seen as the severe causes. The results also revealed that the most common effects of design variation on construction projects were increase in project cost, delays in completion and disputes among stakeholders. The study pointed early interaction between the design team and the client to ensure that clientâ€™s requirements are clarified and communicated effectively into the design to reduce variations. The study recommends team work spirit amongst stakeholders involved in the project and respect to original design by the client as the key ingredients for a successful project delivery.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The complexity of the construction industry due to different stakeholdersâ€™ involvement makes it differ from other industries. This complexity leads to unwanted situations like variations with their associated effects. And presently, it is almost becoming a rare thing for a construction project not to have variation. Most contracts these days must make provisions for possible variations given the nature of road construction project (Finsen et al., 1999). (Uff, 2005) further pointed out that a clause permitting variation of works is an essential feature of any construction contract because without it the contractor is not bound to execute additional work or to make omissions or changes. In line with these, the nature and approach to the conception, planning and subsequent actualization of construction projects are dynamic, complex, sophisticated and capital intensive in recent times. In consequence, these projects are subjected to adequate appraisals by the sponsors on the basis of political, social, projects relativesâ€™ benefits, externalities, etcetera, with a view of ascertaining the values of money (Onwusoye, 2005). The certification for the realization of this objection through various techniques and other implied factors by the potential owner of the projects leads to the eventual take off of a construction project. Therefore, design variation need to be critically addressed as this continue to be a frequent problem that gets worse often in construction project. Though of recent, it is a common phenomenon for design variation to occur on construction project. But under normal circumstance, it is possible for a complex set of drawings and specification to be available for preparation of fully described and accurate bill of quantities for tendering purposes. These would deplete further charges as a result of design changes during the construction stage.