Effect of accuracy and timeliness of information on performance of contractors

Abstract

Improper information flow within the construction parties are most frequently experienced in Sri Lankan construction industry. Due to this situation, contractors faced several difficulties on their performance in terms of cost, time, and quality. Therefore, this paper intends to identify the accuracy and timeliness of information on performance of contractors. The aim is to identify how deficiencies in accuracy and timeliness of information affect performance of contractors in terms of cost, time, and quality. The outcome of this study will be beneficial for practitioners in Sri Lankan construction industry to reduce practical issues related accuracy and timeliness of information. Detailed questionnaire survey was used to identify the significant factors relating to accuracy and timeliness of information. Findings revealed that ‘mistakes in design’ and ‘incomplete drawings’ as the most significant factors on cost performance of contractors; ‘delay in design’, and ‘slow drawing revision and distribution’ as the most significant factors on time performance of contractors and ‘mistakes in design’ and ‘incomplete drawings’ as the most significant factors on quality performance of contractors. Further, factors were categorized as agreed factors and disagreed factors based on contractors’ and clients’ and consultants’ perspectives. Important finding of the study is that there are number of factors considered highly significant by contractors but clients and consultants do not assume them to be so. Furthermore, the study recommended clients, contractors and consultants to hold their responsibilities with regard to information related issues on performance of contractors. Findings will be further useful to build a good relationship between stakeholders and improve the performance of contractors.