Evaluation of procurement systems performance for mechanical and electrical services towards effective delivery of construction products

Abstract

This study critically evaluates different procurement mechanisms and approaches practiced in the Nigerian construction industry, and ascertain the appropriateness of each method towards building services installation and project delivery in the industry. Views of scholars and authors on procurement system were reviewed and discussed summarizing the procurement methods. Questionnaires were administered to stakeholders in the industry within the local government areas in Lagos state involved in the procurements of mechanical and electrical services for building projects. The data collected from the questionnaires was analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS Version 13) statistical tools. From the analysis, it was deduced that labour only procurement method enhance the achievement of clients objectives of cost effectiveness, project management mostly ensures the achievement of clients objective of specified quality standard while design and install mostly enhance the clients objective of quick completion of mechanical and electrical services within required time among other things. The paper recommends, among other factors, that a clear understanding of project objectives, identifying the project constraints and clear understanding of the roles of the contracting parties are essential for procurement of building services. If the issues identified in this research study are managed properly, a project will significantly achieve its time, cost and quality objectives, in addition to client satisfaction.