Developing a framework towards effective quality control management practice on building construction projects in Nigeria : a case study of Lagos

Abstract

Across the world, quality issues on construction projects have been challenging, especially in developing countries with increased demand for buildings due to emerging economies and growing populations. In Nigeria, especially Lagos, poor quality of work has led to the continuous collapse of buildings, with several lives claimed. The need to improve the quality performance of construction projects and curb the quality issues faced by construction industries in Lagos has called for effective quality control management practices. Therefore, this research aims to develop a framework for effective quality control management of building construction projects in Lagos, Nigeria, by investigating the current quality control practices, the challenges inhibiting effective quality control management, the influence of quality control managers as well as the critical success factors required for quality control management of building construction projects. The study employs a quantitative research method using a questionnaire as the research instrument. A total of one hundred and sixteen responses were obtained from construction professionals working in the construction industries within Lagos state, Nigeria. The professionals were randomly selected from each construction firm. The data collected were analysed through descriptive and exploratory factor analysis methods utilizing Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. The findings revealed that the firms carry out quality control management practices but mostly adopt traditional quality control practices to control the quality of work being carried out. Also, the findings revealed that employing quality control managers will positively influence the quality control management of construction projects. They would ensure the implementation of quality plans and checklists, boost quality compliance, and increase the project's success. The study further identified quality control challenges and the success factors required for effective quality control management. Upon this, a graphical framework for effective quality control management was developed. The proposed framework in this study shall be helpful to construction stakeholders and organisations in efficiently controlling the quality of construction projects. The study, therefore, recommends applying digital quality control tools to building projects among construction professionals, as this will help put the industry ahead of others and reduce human error in production.