Examining Governance Impact on Infrastructure Delivery Management

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Weziwe Hadebe and Nishani Harinarain

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64755/ISOH7825

Keywords: Governance, Infrastructure Delivery Management System, School Infrastructure, Project Success

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

This paper investigates the impact of governance on the Infrastructure Delivery Management System (IDMS) and its influence on the success of school infrastructure projects within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education (KZN DoE). Recognising the critical role of governance as a framework for managing complex infrastructure projects, this study aims to elucidate how governance mechanisms affect project outcomes in school infrastructure delivery.

DESIGN / APPROACH / METHODOLOGY

The study adopts a qualitative research approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eleven construction project managers in the KZN Provincial Department of Education, responsible for delivering school infrastructure. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify key themes related to governance structures, stakeholder engagement, policy implementation, resource management, and their interplay in influencing project success.

FINDINGS

The findings revealed that robust governance structures and clear accountability mechanisms significantly enhance project transparency, stakeholder collaboration, and adherence to policy frameworks. The cumulative effect of governance quality was demonstrated to impact critical success indicators, including timeliness, budget adherence, and infrastructure quality.

RESEARCH LIMITATIONS

This study is limited to one province in South Africa, and due to the small qualitative sample, the findings cannot be generalised.

WHAT IS THE ORIGINAL / VALUE

This research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical governance frameworks by highlighting areas requiring reform to optimise the IDMS for school infrastructure delivery. Recommendations emphasise strengthening accountability structures, fostering inclusive stakeholder engagement, enhancing policy compliance, and improving resource management. By addressing these facets, the KZN DoE can better achieve sustainable infrastructure outcomes, which may serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions.