Implementating construction projects on schedule - challenge in a developing economy

Debabrata Kar. PhD (Engr), FICE, F ASCE

Bengal Engineering and Science University, Shibpur, Howrah 711 103, India. Institution of Civil Engineers (UK) Representative in India, Eastern Region.

E mail: debuk@vsnl.net .

Accepted 15 July, 2009

   Abstract

Engineers all over the world have been trying to find out workable solutions to keep project time over-run under good control. The activity networking technique initiated in the USA in the late fifties gained large popularity. This was followed by the introduction of the computer and a large number of management software aiming at effective project control. The techniques are in use globally including in the developing world. Needless to say these techniques have proved very useful, but the real problem of effectively controlling the slippage on construction projects, particularly in the developing countries, still remains largely unsolved. The author has done substantial work in India and other developing countries trying to find workable solutions to this burning issue and have achieved some success. Keeping in view this experience, the author has been actively pursuing further studies, research and detailed work in this area and his broad findings are outlined in this paper.

Key words: Activity network, concurrent delays, developing countries, project slippage, project implementation profile, work breakdown structure, remedial measures.