Dire Dawa University

School of Civil Engineering and Architecture

Department of Construction Technology and Management

Course Title: Independent Study in Construction

Technology and Management

Pilot Study on Assessment of Causes and Effects of Delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Con

By: Semere Zebene (DDU1500230)

Submitted to: Werku K. Hareru, Ph.D., PE

February 15, 2024

 Pilot Study on Assessment of Causes and Effects of Delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construc

Contents
Abstract............................................................................................................................................2

1. Introduction..............................................................................................................................2

1.1. Background of the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project..............2

1.1. Importance of studying delays in construction projects....................................................3

1.2. Organizational overview...................................................................................................4

1.3. Objectives of the pilot study.............................................................................................4

4.2.1. General Objective......................................................................................................4

1.4.2. Specific Objectives....................................................................................................4

1.4.3. Research Questions....................................................................................................4

1.4. Scope and limitations........................................................................................................5

4.2.1. Scope..........................................................................................................................5

1.5.2. Limitations.................................................................................................................5

1.5. Significance of the Study..................................................................................................6

2. Literature Review.....................................................................................................................6

2.1. Introduction.......................................................................................................................6

2.3. Effects of delay on construction projects..........................................................................8

2.4. Strategies for mitigating delays in construction projects..................................................9

3. Research Methodology...........................................................................................................10

3.1. Research design...............................................................................................................10

3.2. Data collection methods..................................................................................................10

3.3. Sampling technique and sample size..............................................................................11

3.4. Data analysis techniques.................................................................................................11

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 Pilot Study on Assessment of Causes and Effects of Delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construc

4. Results and Discussion...........................................................................................................11

4.1. Results.............................................................................................................................11

4.1.1. Analysis of Questionnaire Responses......................................................................11

4.1.2. Causes of delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project to
determine the effects of these delays on the projects.............................................................13

4.1.3. Effects of delay on the progress and outcome of the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt
road construction project........................................................................................................13

4.1.4. Mitigation Strategies for Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project
to determine the effects of these delays on the projects.........................................................15

4.2. Discussion.......................................................................................................................15

4.2.2. Implications of Findings..........................................................................................15

5. Conclusion..............................................................................................................................16

5.1. Summary of Key Findings..............................................................................................16

5.2. Future Research Directions.............................................................................................17

6. Recommendations..................................................................................................................18

7. References..............................................................................................................................19

List of Tables

Table 1 Reliability Statistics..........................................................................................................12

Table 2 Relative Importance Index ranks of Causes of Delays.....................................................12
Table 3 Relative Importance Index ranks of Effects of Delays.....................................................12
Table 4 Relative Importance index ranks of Mitigation Strategies...............................................12

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 Pilot Study on Assessment of Causes and Effects of Delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construc

Abstract
The pilot study on the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project addresses the
significant issue of delays in construction projects. The research aims to assess the causes and
effects of these delays to improve project management practices. Utilizing a structured
approach, including a questionnaire survey, the study identifies primary causes of delays and
their impacts on the project. Through statistical analysis, key findings reveal the effects of delays
on project progress and outcomes. The study concludes that proactive measures, such as
implementing advanced technologies, strengthening contract management, regular monitoring,
enhancing site management, and fostering stakeholder collaboration, are essential to mitigate
delays and drive project success. Recommendations include embracing IoT and sensors, robust
contract management procedures, frequent monitoring, effective site management, and
stakeholder coordination to enhance project efficiency and achieve successful outcomes. By
following these recommendations, stakeholders can minimize delays and enhance sustainability
in construction projects.

Keywords: Construction delays, Project management, Stakeholder collaboration, Advanced

technologies, Arberekete to Gelemso

1. Introduction

1.1. Background of the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project

The Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project is a significant infrastructure

development initiative aimed at improving transportation connectivity and facilitating economic
growth in the East Hararghe Zone of the Oromia region in Ethiopia. The project involves the
construction of a new asphalt road stretching from Arberekete to Gelemso, spanning a
considerable distance and connecting several communities along the route.

The need for this road construction project arises from the inadequate transportation
infrastructure in the region, which hinders access to essential services, markets, and opportunities

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for local residents. The existing road network is often unpaved, poorly maintained, and prone to
damage, leading to challenges in mobility, transportation of goods, and overall socio-economic
development.

The Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project is envisioned to address these
challenges by providing a durable, all-weather road that enhances connectivity between rural
areas, urban centers, and key economic hubs. The project is expected to reduce travel times,
transportation costs, and vehicle maintenance expenses, thereby improving access to education,
healthcare, markets, and other vital services for the local population.

Furthermore, the construction of this asphalt road is anticipated to stimulate economic activities
along the route, creating employment opportunities, attracting investments, and fostering
sustainable development in the region. By enhancing transportation infrastructure, the project
aims to promote social inclusion, reduce poverty, and enhance the overall quality of life for
residents in the East Hararghe Zone.

However, like many infrastructure projects, the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road
Construction Project may face challenges such as delays, budget constraints, environmental
impacts, and community resistance. Understanding these potential obstacles and developing
effective strategies to address them will be crucial for the successful completion and long-term
sustainability of the project.

1.1. Importance of studying delays in construction projects

Delays in construction projects are a common and significant challenge that can have far-
reaching implications on project outcomes, including cost overruns, schedule extensions, and
quality issues. Understanding the importance of studying delays in construction projects is
crucial for mitigating risks, improving project management practices, and enhancing overall
project performance. By analyzing the causes, impacts, and potential solutions for delays,
stakeholders can proactively address issues, optimize resource allocation, and ensure successful
project delivery. This introduction sets the stage for exploring the critical role of studying delays

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in construction projects and the benefits of effectively managing and minimizing their impact on
project outcomes.

1.2. Organizational overview

Causes of Delays in Asphalt Road Construction Projects identify and analyze various factors
contributing to delays, categorizing them into internal and external factors. Internal factors may
include poor project planning, inadequate resource allocation, and ineffective communication,
while external factors encompass regulatory hurdles, weather conditions, and supply chain
disruptions. Effects of Delays in Asphalt Road Construction Projects overview examines the
ramifications of delays on different aspects of construction projects, such as cost overruns,
schedule extensions, reduced quality, and stakeholder dissatisfaction. Furthermore, it explores
secondary effects, such as increased traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and
compromised safety measures.

1.3. Objectives of the pilot study

4.2.1. General Objective

To assess the causes and effects of delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction
project.

1.4.2. Specific Objectives

a) To identify the primary causes of delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road
construction project.
b) To examine the effects of delays on the progress and outcome of the Arberekete to
Gelemso asphalt road construction project.
c) To propose recommendations for mitigating delays and improving the efficiency of future
asphalt road construction projects in similar contexts.

1.4.3. Research Questions

a) What are the main factors contributing to delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road
construction project?

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b) How do delays impact the overall progress and outcome of the Arberekete to Gelemso
asphalt road construction project?
c) What strategies can be implemented to minimize delays and enhance the efficiency of
similar asphalt road construction projects in the future?

1.4. Scope and limitations

4.2.1. Scope
This pilot study focuses specifically on assessing the causes and effects of delays in the
Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project. The scope includes identifying the
factors contributing to delays at different stages of the project and analyzing their impacts on the
project timeline, budget allocation, and quality of construction work. The study will involve
collecting data from various stakeholders involved in the project, including project managers,
contractors, engineers, and local authorities.

1.5.2. Limitations
Limited Sample Size: The pilot study may have a constrained sample size due to resource
limitations, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.

Time Constraints: The time available for data collection and analysis may be limited, potentially
restricting the depth of the study.

Access to Information: Access to project-related data and stakeholders may be restricted,

impacting the comprehensiveness of the study.

Reliance on Self-reporting: The study may rely on self-reported data from project stakeholders,
which could introduce bias or inaccuracies.

External Factors: External factors such as weather conditions or regulatory changes may also
influence project delays but might not be fully addressed within the scope of this study.

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Generalizability: The findings of this pilot study may not be fully generalizable to other
construction projects due to the specific context of the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road
Construction Project.

1.5. Significance of the Study

A study on project delays will lead to a better understanding of the root causes of inefficiency in
road construction projects. Once the most significant delay causing factors are identified, the
stakeholders of the projects shall then be able to channel their energies and deploy resources to
remove the specific limiting factors and thereby reduce delays to the projects.

2. Literature Review

2.1. Introduction

This literature overview synthesizes existing research and scholarly works focusing on the causes
and effects of delays specifically in asphalt road construction projects. It explores a diverse range
of factors contributing to delays, including but not limited to, project management issues,
contractual disputes, environmental challenges, and unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, the
overview investigates the multifaceted effects of delays on project stakeholders, budgets,
schedules, quality standards, and overall project performance.

2.2. Causes of delays in construction projects

The main causes of delays in construction projects from clients' perspective are poor
communication between contractors and investors, and minimizing these dependencies can help
minimize the risk of delays (Głuszak & Leśniak, 2015). Delays in construction projects are
caused by factors such as poor communication between client and contractor, poor planning, and
poor scheduling, with potential solutions to avoid delays through existing time and cost
forecasting methods (Manzur et al., 2017). Slow decision-making, poor site management, labor
shortages, changes in scope, and late revisions of design documents are major causes of
construction project delays (Romzi & Ing, 2022). Financial crisis, security situation, slow pace of
work, lack of detailed plan, materials supplying delays, inaccuracy in time schedules, design

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errors, and design changes during execution are the top ten significant factors of delay in
construction projects in Iraq (Taraziya & Ali, 2020). Delays in construction projects can be
categorized into three types: unexpected delays, planned delays, and actions not timely (Nagata
et al., 2017). Delays in construction projects in Hargeisa are mainly caused by payment delays,
underestimation of project costs, and work scope changes (Fashina et al., 2021). Adopting
communication, management, information systems, law enforcement, and financial strategies
can effectively reduce construction project delays and impact the industry and economy (Abd
Aziz et al., 2022).

(Koshe & Jha, 2016) identified Schedule delays in construction projects are influenced by
various factors such as owner interference, inadequate contractor experience, financing issues,
labor productivity challenges, slow decision-making, improper planning, subcontractor-related
issues, change orders, poor site management, financial difficulties, design changes, delay in
progress payments, lack of skilled professionals, and ineffective planning by contractors. (Assaf
& Al-Hejji, 2006) identified finance, change orders, and cost overruns as significant causes of
delay in large construction projects. (Cheng & Darsa, 2021) emphasized the importance of
construction schedule risk assessment and management strategies, especially for foreign general
contractors working in the Ethiopian construction industry. (Alhajri & Alshibani, 2018)
highlighted critical factors behind construction delays in petrochemical projects in Saudi Arabia,
shedding light on the specific challenges in this sector. In developing countries, such as Oman,
construction delays are influenced by factors such as improper planning, poor site management,
and delayed decisions, as indicated by (Islam & Trigunarsyah, 2017; Latif et al., 2019).
Furthermore, the management of construction risks, including those related to schedule delays, is
crucial for building projects, as discussed by (Aljassasi & Dawood, 2021; Perrenoud & Sullivan,
2016) emphasized the implementation of project schedule metrics to identify the impact of
delays correlated with contractors, highlighting the need for effective monitoring and assessment
of delays. Additionally, (Vu et al., 2016) focused on determining schedule delay risk in highway
projects in Vietnam, providing insights into the specific determinants of schedule delays in this
context.

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(Belay et al., 2021) explored the negative impacts of cost overrun and schedule delays on various
stakeholders involved in construction projects, highlighting the importance of understanding and
mitigating these impacts. (Xie et al., 2021) focused on scheduling optimization of prefabricated
construction projects, emphasizing the need to consider influencing factors of precast
components for accurate project scheduling arrangements. (Ji et al., 2018) categorized delay
factors of prefabricated concrete building projects in China based on a literature review and
expert interviews, shedding light on the specific challenges in this sector.

Moreover, (Mahamid, 2017) investigated schedule deviations in road construction projects,

identifying political situations, payment delays, lack of coordination, change orders, and
unexpected ground conditions as significant factors affecting project. (Hai, 2020) conducted a
comprehensive review of mainstream works influencing the factors causing delays in
construction projects, emphasizing the need for a systematic understanding of delay factors.
(Panchal et al., 2023) highlighted the prevalence of delays and cost overruns in residential
construction projects in the Surat region of India, indicating the widespread nature of these
challenges in the industry.

Additionally, (Mahamid, 2017) studied schedule delays in road construction projects in Saudi
Arabia, identifying improper planning, poor labor productivity, additional works, rework, and
lack of contractor experience as crucial factors affecting project schedules. (Melvin et al., 2023)
predominantly studied delay factors through surveys, emphasizing the importance of empirical
analysis for evaluating schedule irregularities in bore pile foundation projects. Furthermore, (Vu
et al., 2016) focused on determining schedule delay risk in highway projects in Vietnam,
providing insights into the specific determinants of schedule delays in this context.

2.3. Effects of delay on construction projects

Delays in construction projects can lead to cost overruns, time overruns, termination of contract,
arbitration, and litigation (Gebrehiwet & Luo, 2017). According to (Alfakhri et al., 2017), the
five most significant factors affecting the completion of road construction projects in Libya are
utility service delays, budget availability, short contract duration, progress payments delays, and

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subsurface conditions. Delays in construction projects can create cost and time overruns, and
disputes between client and contractor (Manzur et al., 2017).

In addition, several studies have also highlighted the impact of schedule delays on project
budgets. For instance, (Roumeissa, 2019) emphasized that schedule delays are considered the
main cause of cost overrun, time overrun, disputes, and claims in construction projects,
indicating the significant influence of delays on project budgets. Similarly, (Li et al., 2015)
pointed out that schedule delays may lead to budget overruns, threatening project time and cost
objectives.

Generally, the factors that lead to schedule delays in building construction projects have a
substantial influence on project timelines and budgets. Delays caused by various factors such as
financial issues, design changes, poor management, and inadequate planning significantly impact
project schedules and budgets. Understanding these factors is crucial for effective project
management and successful project delivery within the planned timelines and budgets.

2.4. Strategies for mitigating delays in construction projects

Effective site management, strategic planning, and clear communication channels can minimize
construction delays and reduce time and cost overruns in projects (Daripa & Mangaraj). Greater
use of Project Time Management processes in construction projects in Mexico is statistically
associated with timely completion (Solís-Carcaño et al., 2015). According to (Abd Aziz et al.,
2022), five leading aspects of strategies to reduce construction project delays are communication,
management, information systems and technology, enforcement of law and order, and financials.
Digital tools and associated technologies may prevent delay in construction projects by
addressing resources, project context, stakeholder performance, and external factors (Sepasgozar
et al., 2019). In successful projects, owners and contractors weighted similar causes of delay and
suggested mitigation strategies like close project supervision, capacity building training, and
proper logistics management (Banobi & Jung, 2019). The integrated balanced scorecard and
quality function deployment framework help prioritize and reduce construction delays by
focusing on customer- and contractor-related factors (Gunduz & Al-Naimi, 2022). Adopting

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technologies like planning, imaging, geo-spatial data collection, machine learning, and
optimization can help address specific delay causes in construction projects (Gurgun et al.,
2022). Real-time technologies like IoT, sensors, and smartphones can significantly alter delay
management in construction projects by acquiring, screening, analyzing, and presenting
information through an Industry 4.0 application (Radman et al., 2022). Communication could be
a key strategy to resolve major delay causes in planning and design phases of construction
projects (Halim & Zin, 2016).

3. Research Methodology

3.1. Research design

The pilot study used a structured approach to assess the causes and effects of delay in the
Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project through a questionnaire survey. The
objectives were to identify primary causes of delays, examine their effects on the project, and
propose recommendations for improvement. A comprehensive questionnaire with closed-ended
questions was used for data collection. Purposive sampling targeted participants with direct
involvement in the project. Data analysis involved statistical methods for quantitative data.
Acknowledgment of research limitations, such as sample size constraints and respondent bias,
was addressed in the interpretation of findings. The study aimed to provide valuable insights into
the project's delays.

3.2. Data collection methods

The data collection method employed in this study was a questionnaire survey, which provided a
structured approach to gather information on the causes and effects of delay in the Arberekete to
Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project. The questionnaire was carefully designed to
address specific objectives, focusing on identifying primary causes of delays, examining their
effects on the project, and proposing recommendations for improvement. The questionnaire
consisted of closed-ended questions, ensuring a systematic and comprehensive approach to data
collection. Purposive sampling was utilized to target participants directly involved in the project,
ensuring that the data collected was relevant and insightful. The analysis of the collected data

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involved both statistical methods for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data,
enabling a robust and in-depth exploration of the issues at hand. Throughout the study, careful
consideration was given to potential limitations, such as sample size constraints and respondent
bias, ensuring that the findings were interpreted with a clear understanding of any potential
constraints. Overall, the questionnaire survey method proved to be an effective tool for gathering
valuable insights into the causes and effects of delays in the construction project.

3.3. Sampling technique and sample size

The sampling technique employed in this study was a systematic approach that targeted 10% of
the total population of stakeholders involved in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road
Construction Project. The participants included the contractor, the consultant, and the client.
With a target population of 80 stakeholders, a deliberate effort was made to ensure representation
from each group. Ultimately, 8 respondents were selected to complete the questionnaire,
representing 10% of the total target population. This approach allowed for a focused and
meaningful data collection process, ensuring that the perspectives of key stakeholders were
captured and analyzed in a comprehensive manner.

3.4. Data analysis techniques

The study utilized rigorous data analysis techniques, including quantitative methods such as the
reliability test by Cronbach's alpha and the ranking relative importance index. These approaches
were chosen to ensure the robustness and accuracy of the findings. The reliability test by
Cronbach's alpha allowed for the assessment of internal consistency and the reliability of the
research instrument, while the ranking relative importance index facilitated the identification and
prioritization of key factors. By employing these advanced analytical tools, the study was able to
derive meaningful insights and draw reliable conclusions based on the data collected.

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4. Results and Discussion

4.1. Results

4.1.1. Analysis of Questionnaire Responses

Using SPSSv20, the reliability index of the data was computed using Cronbach's Alpha, resulting
in a commendable outcome. The calculated reliability index reflects the robustness and
consistency of the data, indicating a high level of internal consistency and reliability.
Furthermore, the relative importance of the factors was determined and ranked, providing
valuable insights into their respective significance. This ranking offers a comprehensive
understanding of the impact and implications of each factor, guiding informed decision-making
and strategic planning.
Table 1 Reliability Statistics

Cronbach's Alpha N of Items

0.849 15

Table 2 Relative Importance Index ranks of Causes of Delays

1. Causes of Delays RII Rank

1. Poor communication between contractors and investors significantly contributes to delays 0.725 1
in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.
2. Inadequate project funding is a primary cause of delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso 0.375 5
asphalt road construction project.

3. Late decision-making by project stakeholders is a major cause of delays in the Arberekete 0.5 4
to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.

4. Poor site management practices significantly contribute to delays in the Arberekete to 0.625 3
Gelemso asphalt road construction project.

5. Change orders during project execution often lead to delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso 0.7 2
asphalt road construction project.

Table 3 Relative Importance Index ranks of Effects of Delays

2. Examining Effects of Delays RII Rank

1. Delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project have a substantial 0.600 2
impact on the overall progress of the project.
2. Delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project often lead to cost 0.450 3
overruns.

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3. Rushed construction activities due to time pressure often result in substandard project 0.675 1
quality in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.

4. Delayed payments from clients significantly disrupt the supply chain and lead to work 0.425 4
stoppages in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.
5. Increased project durations due to delays result in additional expenses related to labor, 0.425 4
equipment, and materials in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.

Table 4 Relative Importance index ranks of Mitigation Strategies

3. Proposing Mitigation Strategies RII Rank

1. Effective site management and strategic planning can help minimize delays in the Arberekete 0.550 4
to Gelemso asphalt road construction project.
2. Adopting advanced technologies like IoT and sensors can help in better monitoring and 0.750 1
management of the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project, thereby reducing
delays.
3. Close coordination and collaboration among project stakeholders are essential for timely 0.550 4
decision-making and preventing delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction
project.
4. Implementing robust contract management practices can mitigate delays by addressing issues 0.600 2
related to scope creep and change orders in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road
construction project.
5. Regular monitoring and evaluation of project progress against established milestones can 0.575 3
help in early identification and mitigation of potential delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso
asphalt road construction project.

4.1.2. Causes of delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project to
determine the effects of these delays on the projects.
The Relative Importance Index (RII) has been utilized to assess the perceived significance of
various factors contributing to delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction
project. The results reveal that poor communication between contractors and investors has been
identified as the most influential cause of delays, followed by change orders during project
execution, poor site management practices, late decision-making by project stakeholders, and
inadequate project funding. These findings underscore the critical need for addressing
communication gaps, managing change effectively, implementing efficient site management
strategies, making timely decisions, and securing adequate funding to minimize delays and

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enhance the project's overall success. By proactively addressing these identified causes of delays,
project stakeholders can mitigate inefficiencies and improve project timelines and outcomes.

4.1.3. Effects of delay on the progress and outcome of the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road
construction project
The Relative Importance Index (RII) has been calculated and ranked to assess the effects of
delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project. The RII ranks provide
valuable insights into the perceived significance of various delay-related factors, guiding the
interpretation and discussion of their implications.

Rushed construction activities due to time pressure (RII Rank: 1, RII: 0.675): The high RII rank
of rushed construction activities underscore the potential compromise in work quality, posing
safety and structural risks. Managing time pressures effectively is crucial to upholding quality
standards and ensuring the long-term functionality of the road.

Delays in the project impacting overall progress (RII Rank: 2, RII: 0.600): The significant
impact of delays on project progress highlights the potential for cascading disruptions and
challenges in meeting objectives within the planned timeline. Proactive measures to address
delays are essential for maintaining project momentum and achieving timely completion.

Increased project durations leading to additional expenses (RII Rank: 3, RII: 0.425): Extended
project durations due to delays can result in heightened costs related to labor, equipment, and
overhead expenses. Efficient delay management is vital for controlling project budgets and
avoiding unnecessary financial burdens.

Delayed payments disrupting the supply chain (RII Rank: 4, RII: 0.425): The disruption caused
by delayed payments can impact the project's cash flow, leading to work stoppages and logistical
challenges within the supply chain. Timely payments are essential for maintaining a smooth
project flow and stakeholder relationships.

Delays leading to cost overruns (RII Rank: 5, RII: 0.450): Project delays often result in increased
costs, straining project budgets and profitability. Proactive delay management is critical for
controlling expenditures and ensuring project viability.

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Addressing these delay-related effects through proactive project management strategies, quality
control measures, efficient resource allocation, timely payment schedules, and cost monitoring
mechanisms is essential for mitigating negative impacts and enhancing the overall success of the
Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project. These findings underscore the
importance of prioritizing effective delay management to ensure project efficiency and success.

4.1.4. Mitigation Strategies for Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project to
determine the effects of these delays on the projects
The Relative Importance Index (RII) has been utilized to rank and propose mitigation strategies
for addressing delays in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road construction project. The
interpretation and discussion of these mitigation strategies, based on their RII ranks, reveal
significant insights. Firstly, the adoption of advanced technologies such as Internet of Things
(IoT) and sensors has been ranked highest (RII Rank: 1, RII: 0.750). This approach can enhance
project monitoring, data collection, and decision-making processes, thereby improving project
visibility, efficiency, and quality control, ultimately reducing delays and enhancing project
outcomes. Additionally, implementing robust contract management practices (RII Rank: 2, RII:
0.600) can address issues related to scope creep, change orders, and contractual disputes,
streamlining project execution and mitigating delays. Regular monitoring and evaluation of
project progress (RII Rank: 3, RII: 0.575) can help identify potential delays early on, while
effective site management and strategic planning (RII Rank: 4, RII: 0.550) and close
coordination among project stakeholders (RII Rank: 4, RII: 0.550) are also crucial in minimizing
delays and improving project efficiency. By implementing these proposed mitigation strategies,
project stakeholders can proactively address the root causes of delays, enhance project
efficiency, and improve overall project outcomes in the Arberekete to Gelemso asphalt road
construction project. Leveraging technology, effective contract management, continuous
monitoring, strategic site management, and stakeholder collaboration can help mitigate delays
and drive project success.

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4.2. Discussion

4.2.2. Implications of Findings

The implications of the findings from the pilot study on the causes and effects of delay in the
Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project underscore the critical need for
proactive measures to address delays in construction projects. By prioritizing the adoption of
advanced technologies, implementing robust contract management practices, ensuring regular
monitoring of project progress, enhancing site management, and fostering close collaboration
among stakeholders, project teams can effectively mitigate delays, improve project efficiency,
and ultimately achieve successful project outcomes

5. Conclusion

5.1. Summary of Key Findings

The key findings from the pilot study on the causes and effects of delay in the Arberekete to
Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project are as follows:

Identified Primary Causes of Delays: The study pinpointed various internal and external factors
contributing to delays, including poor project planning, inadequate resource allocation,
regulatory hurdles, weather conditions, and supply chain disruptions.

Effects of Delays on Project Progress: Delays were found to result in cost overruns, schedule
extensions, reduced quality of work, and stakeholder dissatisfaction, with secondary effects such
as increased traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and compromised safety measures.

Mitigation Strategies: Recommendations were proposed to address delays, including the

adoption of advanced technologies like IoT and sensors, robust contract management practices,
regular monitoring of project progress, effective site management, and stakeholder collaboration.

Importance of Proactive Measures: The study emphasized the significance of proactive

measures in mitigating delays, improving project efficiency, and driving successful project
outcomes in asphalt road construction projects.

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By understanding these key findings and implementing the recommended strategies, project
stakeholders can effectively address delay factors and enhance the overall success of
construction projects.

5.2. Future Research Directions

The pilot study on the causes and effects of delay in the Arberekete to Gelemso Asphalt Road
Construction Project suggests several future research directions to further enhance understanding
and address challenges in construction projects:

Advanced Monitoring Technologies: Investigate the integration of advanced monitoring

technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and real-time project tracking
systems, to improve project visibility, decision-making, and proactive risk management.

Stakeholder Engagement Strategies: Explore innovative approaches to enhance stakeholder

engagement and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle, aiming to streamline
communication, resolve conflicts, and align project goals for improved project outcomes.

Sustainable Construction Practices: Examine the implementation of sustainable construction

practices, including green building materials, energy-efficient design solutions, and
environmentally friendly construction methods, to minimize environmental impacts and promote
long-term sustainability in infrastructure projects.

Risk Management Frameworks: Develop comprehensive risk management frameworks tailored

to the construction industry, focusing on identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks
effectively to prevent delays, cost overruns, and quality issues.

Comparative Studies: Conduct comparative studies across different construction projects and
regions to analyze common delay factors, best practices, and lessons learned, facilitating
knowledge sharing and benchmarking for continuous improvement in project management
practices.

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By exploring these future research directions, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers can
further advance the field of construction project management, drive innovation in infrastructure
development, and contribute to the successful delivery of construction projects with minimized
delays and enhanced sustainability.

6. Recommendations
Based on the pilot study's findings on the causes and effects of delay in the Arberekete to
Gelemso Asphalt Road Construction Project, the following recommendations are proposed:

Implement Advanced Technologies: Embrace technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) and
sensors to enhance project monitoring, data collection, and decision-making processes,
improving project visibility, efficiency, and quality control.

Strengthen Contract Management Practices: Establish robust contract management procedures

to address issues related to scope creep, change orders, and contractual disputes, streamlining
project execution and mitigating delays.

Regular Monitoring and Evaluation: Conduct frequent monitoring and evaluation of project
progress to identify potential delays early on, enabling timely interventions and adjustments to
keep the project on track.

Enhance Site Management and Planning: Focus on effective site management practices and
strategic planning to optimize resource allocation, streamline workflows, and ensure smooth
project execution.

Foster Stakeholder Collaboration: Promote close coordination and collaboration among all
project stakeholders to facilitate communication, resolve issues promptly, and align efforts
towards common project goals.

By implementing these recommendations, project teams can proactively address delay factors,
enhance project efficiency, and improve overall project outcomes in the Arberekete to Gelemso
Asphalt Road Construction Project

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