Validating factors influencing monitoring and evaluation in the Ghanaian construction industry: a Delphi study approach

Abstract

Construction practice globally is characterized with challenges cutting across processes and methods. It is evident also that the mechanisms to mitigate these challenges have not resulted in the desired performance envisaged in the Ghanaian construction industry. Whereas monitoring and evaluation of the projects have been applauded as a panacea to solving this performance challenges, the factors influencing effective monitoring and evaluation systems have not been agreed upon in the Ghanaian construction industry. The qualitative Delphi approach was adopted to validate the factors influencing monitoring and evaluation in the Ghanaian construction industry. Eleven experts concluded a two-stage iterative Delphi study process and reached consensus on all the fourteen (14) factors identified to influence the monitoring and evaluation process to ensure successful project delivery in Ghana. The study agreed that factors such as stakeholder involvement, budgetary allocation, leadership, communication and M&E information systems were needed to ensure effective monitoring and evaluation. The Delphi technique served a vital tool to achieve the objective of the study. It is subsequently recommended for studies that require consensus to be reached on matters that are lingering and being understood in diverse perspectives on the challenges of construction project management. The implication of the finding is for a quality, robust monitoring and evaluation system for project success.