Improving Pre-Construction Planning on Public Construction Projects: An Analysis of the Time Allocated to the First Three Project Work Stages of the Construction Process

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Sibongile Zwane, Mantombi Xamba, Hombakazi Mgwili and Nondumiso Nene

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64755/YWKW4056

Keywords: Public construction Projects, Pre-construction Planning, Project Work Stages, Time Allocation

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ABSTRACT

PURPOSE

Time allocated to the initial three work stages of the construction process in South Africa is crucial for the success and completion of public construction projects. The paper evaluates the factors influencing the time allocated in the initial stages. Identifying challenges, best practices, and optimization opportunities in pre-construction planning procedures in public construction projects to identify areas of improvement.

DESIGN / METHODOLOGY / APPROACH

Use of a questionnaire allowed data to be collected from the built environment professionals involved in the pre-construction planning stages of public construction projects.

FINDINGS

The study finds that the factors influencing time allocation in pre-construction work stages are closely linked to respondents’ perceived knowledge. These factors have a significant effect on the time allocated in the pre-construction planning stage and they are not fully optimized to improve project outcomes of the time allocated in the pre-construction work stages.

VALUE & CONTRIBUTIONS

Sufficient pre-construction analysis is important in establishing a project’s scope, giving stakeholders insightful information, and guaranteeing the project’s successful completion.

RESEARCH ASSUMPTIONS

Sufficient time allocation in pre-construction planning is linked to successful project delivery and the three pre-construction planning work stages are inception, concept and viability and design development.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasizes the importance of adequate preparation time in the first three work stages to define a project’s scope, provide stakeholders with useful information, and ensure the project’s successful completion. It highlights the need for public construction project stakeholders to prioritize sufficient time allocation in the pre- construction planning stages for project efficiency.