An investigative study into the challenges impacting the South African public sector construction industry

Abstract

Within South African literature, there exists an empirical gap on the key challenges that impact the successful delivery of construction and engineering projects in the public sector. Earlier research has focused on select aspects of construction and engineering project delivery within a refined context. This study focuses on obtaining a greater understanding of various unique influences that influence and impact the South African construction and engineering industry. An empirical investigation assists the study by refining the key challenges that impact the successful delivery of public sector construction projects in South Africa. DESIGN The study employs methodological triangulation to discern the views of research participants and their respective opinions regarding the challenges impacting the South African public sector construction industry. The research data collected through triangulation methods were empirically analysed through the adoption of Statistical Product and Service Solutions and AMOS for the purpose of structural equation modelling. FINDINGS The findings highlighting the key project challenges contribute theoretically and practically to the current body of knowledge. The findings also provide the base for public sector stakeholders to develop a Strategic Model for implementation by public sector institutions. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS The study was limited to Kwazulu-Natal due to the coronavirus pandemic. It was conducted among 750 construction and engineering sector stakeholders from organisations registered with the Construction Industry Development Board through the adoption of survey questionnaires, which present the views and opinions of their respective organisations. VALUE The study contributes directly to the existing body of knowledge and promotes a basis for further research into the South African public sector construction industry and the management systems within.