Proposed Model for Enhancing Performances of Small Projects in Small Island States – Case Study of the Republic of Mauritius

Abstract

In this study the sources and causes of poor performances on small residential building projects, within the island of Mauritius, were used to devise a model that would enhance success on such types of construction ventures. The model was initially tested and refined. During the observational studies, 18 houses were observed within various districts around the island. Throughout the investigation, no two houses were constructed by the same builder/labour contractor or team of workers. For the validation of the proposed system, the same 18 teams were contacted. However, to form part of the selection list, the following criteria were mandatory: (i) the Builder/Contractor had to be agreeable to follow the proposed framework and, as per the previous endeavour, will supply only labour; (ii) the Client was also agreeable to follow the proposed model; (iii) residence was less than or equal to 1615 square feet; (iv) the residence was only one level high; (v) the residence was made of reinforced concrete elements and cladded with cellular blocks; (vi) construction started in August 2017; and (vii) the consultant on the project was myself. The impact of the system on the different projects proved to be very successful on many frontiers. The constructions were executed within the expected budgets with very little or insignificant deviations. Duration of projects was as expected and the quality of the resulting works was above average industry standard. Health and safety recommendations were implemented on all of the sites with the result being zero major/fatal accidents. Wastage on site was reduced considerably. Feedbacks collected with the different stakeholders were all positive, which proved that the proposed framework had boosted the performance of these residential building projects.