• An Investigation Into Design Errors And It's Impact On Initial Cost Of A Construction Project

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    • 1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
      Design errors indicate the total design in-effectiveness of a project. Major design quality problems occur during construction when errors, omissions and ambiguities in plans and specifications become evident (Davis and Ledbetter, 1987). This statement directs that the inadequacies in the plans and specifications are the major causes of changes to the contract. There have been extreme examples of design errors such as numerous building collapse in Nigeria - projects that have wrought disaster after the construction are completed. These are examples of design errors that escaped the close scrutiny of all parties. One or two major errors that can be corrected with only cost considerations and little effect on the schedule can impact projects. The projects that really suffer are those with many small errors (design, rework or change of scope) which when finally added up cause major impacts on the cost and schedule growth. Through Davis and Ledbetters research it was determined that "accuracy of the design documents" was the most critical of the criteria used in the initial evaluation of design effectiveness. This accuracy was further described as the concern for the frequency and impact of errors in the specifications and drawings. This is due to the fact that the drawings and specifications are the most "readily identifiable outputs of the design process." It is evermore important that the quality control of designs be addressed during the planning phase and closely monitored during the construction phase.
      1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
      The main aim of the study is to investigate how design errors can affect the initial cost of a project. The specific objectives are:
      To determine what constitutes a design error.
      To examine the contributing factors to design errors in Nigeria.
      To examine how these factors can affect initial cost and growth of a project.
      RESEARCH QUESTIONS
      What makes or contributes to a design error?
      What are the factors that lead to design errors?
      What effect can design errors have on initial cost and growth of a project?
      1.5 HYPOTHESIS FORMULATION
      Hi: There is no significant relationship between design error and initial project cost.
      Ho: There is significant relationship between design error and initial project cost.
      1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
      This study gives a clear insight into the various ways in which contractors in the construction companies in Nigeria can maximise profits and reduce initial cost through effective and efficient contract planning and management. The study also gives a clear insight into the various effects of design errors on the cost of a project. The findings and recommendations of the researcher will help in building a strong and better project management guideline for contractors in Nigeria.

  • CHAPTER ONE -- [Total Page(s) 3]

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