Strategies to Reduce Cost Overruns and Schedule Delays in Construction Projects

Strategies to Reduce Cost Overruns and Schedule Delays in Construction Projects by Ali Al-keim MPM, University of Technology, Sydney, 2007 MCPM, University of New South Wales, 2005 BS, Almustansiriyah University, Iraq 1995 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University December 2017 Abstract Senior managers fail to control time and costs of construction projects despite available advanced project management tools. Based on project management theory, the objective of this multiple case study was to explore the strategies senior managers use to reduce cost overruns and schedule delays in construction projects. Primary data were obtained from semistructured interviews with 3 senior managers from different constructionSenior managers fail to control time and costs of construction projects despite available advanced project management tools. Based on project management theory, the objective of this multiple case study was to explore the strategies senior managers use to reduce cost overruns and schedule delays in construction projects. Primary data were obtained from semistructured interviews with 3 senior managers from different construction project management companies who have successfully managed construction projects in Qatar. Data analysis process included a modified Van Kaam method. The transcribed interviews were interpreted and coded to generate themes and were validated through member checking and archival documents. The most centralized themes included (a) master planning, (b) processes and procedures, (c) managing design stage, (d) procurement management, (e) use of proper software, (f) setting project cost and time, and (g) deciding clear scope. A construction project may not succeed without appropriate planning for all stages of the project lifecycle. Managing the approval of the project components during the design stage contributes to reducing changes during construction, which is helpful to control cost and time. The project processes and procedures are meaningful roadmaps for the managers and decision makers. The implications for positive social change include the potential to maintain a cleaner Earth by reducing design and construction wastes. Reducing wastes improves the cost of construction and provides opportunities for people to own property at more affordable costs. Strategies to Reduce Cost Overruns and Schedule Delays in Construction Projects by Ali Al-keim MPM, University of Technology, Sydney 2007 MCPM, University of New South Wales 2005 BS, Almustansiriyah University, Iraq 1995 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University December 2017 Dedication I thank God first for giving me the power to complete this DBA journey. I dedicate this doctoral study to my father who dreamed of seeing me completing this degree. I also dedicate this research to my wife, Zainab. My wife supported me by providing the best atmosphere for completing this study of which without her support, this study would not be completed. Many thanks for my father and for Zainab. Acknowledgments I thank the Walden community for the support provided while in this DBA journey. My special thank you is for my chair, Dr. Patsy Kasen who provided me with extraordinary support and guidance whenever needed. I also thank Dr. James Glenn as part of my committee for his valuable contributions and all classmates for exchanging their knowledge and experience. Others that enhanced my ability to complete this research are other members of my committee, academic advisors, and librarians.