Impact of Unwholesome Practices on the Performance of Public Building Projects
Chapter One
Objective of the study
The primary objective of this study is to comprehensively investigate the impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building projects. In pursuit of this overarching goal, the study aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- To Identify Types and Manifestations of Unwholesome Practices.
- To Assess the Effect on Project Timelines.
- To Evaluate Financial Implications
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Concept of Unwholesome Practices
Unwholesome practices in the context of construction projects refer to unethical, illegal, and detrimental behaviors that undermine the integrity, transparency, and efficiency of the construction process. These practices encompass a wide range of actions that compromise project performance, quality, and overall societal well-being. Unwholesome practices include corruption, collusion, bid rigging, use of substandard materials, and other forms of misconduct that deviate from ethical norms and legal standards.
- Corruption and Bribery: Corruption involves the abuse of power or position for personal gain, often through bribery or kickbacks. Transparency International defines corruption as “the misuse of entrusted power for private gain” [1]. Corrupt practices in construction projects can lead to misallocation of funds, substandard work, and project delays.
- Collusion and Bid Rigging: Collusion occurs when parties within the construction sector conspire to manipulate prices, suppress competition, and gain unfair advantages. Bid rigging is a specific form of collusion where competitors secretly agree on bid prices or submit fake bids to secure contracts. Such practices distort market dynamics and lead to inflated project costs [2].
- Substandard Materials and Workmanship: Unwholesome practices may involve the use of substandard materials, shortcuts in construction techniques, and poor workmanship. These actions compromise the quality and safety of constructed buildings and infrastructure, posing risks to occupants and the public at large [3].
- Conflict of Interest: Conflict of interest arises when individuals in decision-making positions have personal interests that could influence their professional judgments. This can lead to biased decisions that prioritize personal gain over the best interests of the project and the public.
- Fraudulent Practices: Fraud includes deliberate misrepresentation of information, falsification of documents, and embezzlement. Fraudulent practices in construction projects can lead to financial losses, compromised project outcomes, and legal consequences.
- Unfair Tendering and Procurement: Unwholesome practices can affect the fairness of tendering and procurement processes. This may involve favoritism in awarding contracts, bypassing competitive bidding, or manipulating selection criteria to benefit certain parties.
- Lack of Transparency and Accountability: When there is a lack of transparency and accountability, it becomes easier for unwholesome practices to thrive. Concealing project information, financial transactions, and decision-making processes can facilitate corrupt activities.
Unwholesome practices have far-reaching negative consequences on construction projects and the broader society. They can lead to delays, cost overruns, compromised quality, erosion of public trust, and reduced economic benefits. Addressing these practices requires a combination of regulatory reforms, enforcement mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, and a commitment to ethical principles.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
According to Udoyen (2019), a study population is a group of elements or individuals as the case may be, who share similar characteristics. These similar features can include location, gender, age, sex or specific interest. The emphasis on study population is that it constitutes of individuals or elements that are homogeneous in description.
This study was carried to examine Impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building project. Selected constructions companies in Lagos state forms the population of the study.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building project. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing Impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building project
Summary
This study was on Impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building project. Three objectives were raised which included; To Identify Types and Manifestations of Unwholesome Practices, to Assess the Effect on Project Timelines and to Evaluate Financial Implications. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from selected construction companies in Lagos state. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study’s insights provide a foundation for informed decision-making, enabling stakeholders to take meaningful steps towards curbing unwholesome practices and improving the performance of public building projects. By addressing these challenges head-on, we can usher in an era of more efficient, transparent, and successful construction endeavors, ultimately contributing to sustainable development and the betterment of society as a whole.
Recommendation
Building upon the insights gained from this study, a series of strategic recommendations are proposed to mitigate the impact of unwholesome practices on the performance of public building projects. These recommendations are aimed at fostering transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct throughout the construction industry:
- Strengthen and update existing laws and regulations related to construction projects to explicitly address unwholesome practices.
- Implement clear and rigorous procurement guidelines that promote fairness, competitiveness, and equal opportunity for all stakeholders.
- Establish centralized platforms for project information, financial transactions, and bidding processes to ensure transparency and discourage covert dealings.
- Introduce mechanisms for public oversight, such as citizen participation, independent audits, and regular project reporting.
References
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