THE EFFECT OF PROJECT COMMUNICATION MANAGEMENT ON PROJECT PERFORMANCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY OF MIDROC INVESTMENT GROUP

Abstract

This study assessed the effect of project communication management on project performance in the construction industry, focusing on the MIDROC Investment Group in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A mixed methods approach, utilizing a case study research design, was employed. Data were collected from Project Managers, Project Coordinators, Site Supervisors, Stakeholder Engagement Specialists, and Risk Managers at MIDROC Investment Group. Out of 238 distributed questionnaires, 233 were completed, yielding a response rate of 97.90%. Additionally, interviews were conducted with 30 of the 33 planned participants, resulting in a 90.91% response rate. Thematic analysis was performed alongside quantitative data analysis using SPSS version 26. Findings highlight the critical role of effective communication practices and technology integration in enhancing project performance. Furthermore, stakeholder engagement and cultural context may require further exploration, as they did not show a direct impact on performance in this context. The study recommends improving communication practices, investing in digital tools, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and implementing training programs focused on cultural differences and conflict management. Future research should investigate additional effects of project communication management on project performance in the construction industry through longitudinal studies, focus group discussions, and comparative studies.