Weaknesses
in the Construction Industry
·
In the total process an inherent weakness is the separation of
design development from the realities of construction practice. It contributes to lack of practical design
and to separate groups whose aims rarely seem to merge. It divides the design
team from the construction team. No wonder clients are seeking to use more
integrated procurement methods! The large number of small building and
sub-contracting firms makes it difficult to achieve a comprehensive and unified
approach to improving performance and efficiency within the industry.
·
In the construction field, contractors have a shoddy image based
on illegal and collusive tendering practices and bribery; some corrupt
activities are far too prevalent for the general public to hold the industry in
high esteem. Inefficient and outdated practices tend to reduce the potential
for improvements in productivity.
·
Patterns of conflict seem to characterize relations in the
industry. Contracts are based on adversarial relationships, not co-operation
and the sharing of joint objectives. As a consequence the client’s needs
are often lost in inter-party and inter-disciplinary rivalry, which seems to
contribute little to the outcome.
·
A poor quality finished product.
·
Delays caused by factors which are within the control of the
design and construction teams and should not occur
·
Cost overruns, many of which become news items because they and
construction teams and should not occur. Involve public money.
·
Poor marketing and client relations.
·
Inefficient organization of subcontractors.
·
Lack of attention to public concerns of noise, nuisance, danger
and generally poor public relations.
