ASSESSEMENT OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES: THE CASE OF SELECTED LOCAL PRIVATE CONTRACTORS IN ADDIS ABABA

Abstract

Project management practices are essential for the successful completion of any construction project. However, due to the dynamic nature of the construction industry, it is crucial for contractors to continuously improve and update their skills and knowledge in project management. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the current management practices of selected local private contractors in Addis Ababa and explore how they can improve their project skills in 10 key knowledge areas defined by the project management institutes (PMI) by addressing six project management knowledge areas such as project integration management, scope, time, quality, cost, and stakeholder management. The research methodology involved a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, and it adopted a descriptive research design. The primary data was collected through surveys, observation, interviews, and questionnaires. And as secondary data, related books, articles, journals, and publications from the project office were reviewed. Percentages and mean values were used to analyse the collected data and case studies of three selected private construction companies involved in various construction projects. The findings of the research showed that among project management knowledge area assessments, almost all of them have a low level of mean value, except project quality management. The project quality management knowledge area practices were better in the organization; the other objective was the assessment of project management challenges. Lack of suitable project management methodology and lack of project management practices are the major challenges that the organization faced during the assessment. Thus, the research recommended that contractor’s project managers, and stakeholders seek to improve project management knowledge and practices in the construction industry.