Exploring the Quality Management Methods Adopted by Contractors in Fast-Track Construction Projects in Eastern Cape

Abstract

The aim of this research is to explore the quality management methods adopted by contractors in fast-track construction projects by identifying the challenges experienced by the contractors and how these challenges are mitigated. To achieve the study objectives, a qualitative case study research design was applied using the narratives, in form of interviews, extracted from the contractors, clerk of works, quantity surveyors and project managers. The case studies were from projects in East London, Queenstown and Aliwal North in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The findings from the study suggest that majority of those interviewed have an understanding of the concept of fast-track construction. The study also discovered that the most essential quality management methods adopted by contractors in fast-track construction were checklist, design-build, schedule compression technique, quality control plan, and Plan-Do-Act-Check methods. The study concludes that the fast-track construction approach can aid construction projects to be completed on time without jeopardising the quality standard. However, the contractors need to be meticulous in the application of the fast-track construction approach considering the challenges inherent therein.