An Appraisal Of Information And Communication Technology (ict) Application In Nigerian Construction Industry

This study is aimed at investigating the level of Information Communication Technology (ICT) applications in the Nigerian Construction Industry; determine the prospects with respect to benefits, costs, risks and research and development needs and to make recommendations on possible interventions. Relevant literature on studies done in other counties and in Nigeria as well was reviewed. A comprehensive questionnaire was designed and administered to the respondents (construction industry professional) for data collection and analysis. A total of 63 respondents to a questionnaire survey most of which were construction companies provided empirical data for the analysis.

Preliminary findings indicate that Nigerian Construction Industry has not fully appreciated the value of ICT and the impact of its use on the productivity value chain management. This delay in ICT uptake in Nigerian construction industry is limiting advances in construction quality, cost efficiencies and competitiveness of local firms. However, there are indications that the construction companies in Nigeria are beginning to realize that they would record substantial financial benefits as a result of ICT implementation and are flexible in the case of adapting to new technology.

The survey through the questionnaire had limitations as it relates to industry best practice in the international Arena because of varying applications of construction techniques and methodologies. Furthermore, the survey was relatively small compare to the  target group of over 2000 industry players. This was  mainly due to lack of funding  for the research. However, the study establishes a baseline for future construction sector ICT studies and further registered the sectoral ICT competitiveness of the Nigeria construction industry.