STUDENT PAPER
By Iresha S. Hewage
University of Moratuwa
Sri Lanka
Abstract
The construction industry is undergoing increased complexity due to continuous advancements in design and technology. Completing projects within specified timelines and budget constraints poses a significant challenge. In the Sri Lankan context, the demand for efficient management has become more pressing, given the rapid expansion of construction activities. Achieving successful project completion necessitates the involvement of professional project management expertise, and an instrumental tool in this regard is the utilization of project management software. This software aids in streamlining processes, enhancing communication, and ensuring effective resource allocation for improved project outcomes.
The focus of this research was to gather industry experience in applications of construction management software and to assess the difficulties & benefits realized by the industry. The study was conducted in 287 construction companies, the firms registered under ICTAD (Institute for Construction Training and Development) and the grades C1, C2, C3 and C4 were considered. Focuses on three main areas in management and the survey was done through a questionnaire-based interview. Data collected were used to understand the position where construction firms stand in terms of software usage for project management activities in the Sri Lankan construction industry.
According to the study Over 80% of building contractor firms (ICTAD grades C1 to C4) are using MS Project as their project management software tool. Some firms have extended the usage to the MS Project server facility, but it was very limited for a few firms. If the satisfaction levels, irrespective of software usage for those particular areas are also decreased along with the software usage. Around 35% of construction firms in the industry have a plan to develop their software systems in the future. Among them, getting to train the staff has become the 1st place activity and 28% of firms in a place to introduce the latest/ newer versions of software to their firms. Therefore, firms use only the basic and initial features of the project management software and gradually decrease the usage with the complexity of features. Further, need to measure and address the issues, the nonavailability of trained staff through training programs and introducing the latest version of the software.
Keywords: Software application, time, cost, recourses, Project Management
- Introduction
The Management of construction projects is a challenging occupation as the environment in which projects are constructed increases in complexity. Such complexity arises from the increasing technological, social and economic forces that impact the process of constructing the world’s buildings and infrastructure (Alameri et al., 2021).
All those complex and rapid improvements in design as well as technological disciplines have added new dimensions to the construction industry (Muñoz-La Rivera et al., 2021). The scarcity of essential materials for construction and rapid increase in the cost of labor have led to new techniques in construction technology and management Further, the continued exploitation of labor in the past has increased workers discontent and new rules and regulations imposed by the governments as well as international organizations have created more obligations on workers facility and welfare (Forcael et al., 2020). Therefore, the importance of systematic planning and programming of works and effective management of construction projects is highlighted more than ever to prevent drudgery and to improve productivity & efficiency.
According to the Annual Survey of the Sri Lankan Construction Industry, the total estimated value of work done by all types of construction activities of the contractors in Sri Lanka was Rs. 316,448. Million 2018-2019. The Highest contribution to this value has been made by the building construction sector. Furthermore, GDP from Construction in Sri Lanka decreased to 185519 LKR Million in the third quarter of 2023 from 187194 LKR Million in the second quarter of 2023 as per the Department of Census & Statistics in Sri Lanka ( statistics,2021 ). The figures show how important the role of construction is in the country and its contribution to its economy. This clearly suggests that enhancing the efficiency and productivity of the construction industry through the adoption of new technologies, coupled with effective management techniques, has the potential to significantly boost the contribution of the sector to the country’s economy.
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How to cite this paper: Hewage, I. S. (2024). Effectiveness of Software Applications in Construction Project Management; PM World Journal, Vol. XIII, Issue IV, April. Available online at https://pmworldlibrary.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/pmwj140-Apr2024-Hewage-Effectiveness-of-Software-Applications-in-Construction-PM.pdf
About the Author
Iresha S. Hewage
Sri Lanka
Passionate about environmental sustainability and conservation, Iresha Hewage is a graduate of the University of Ruhuna in Sri Lanka, specializing in Green Technology (BSc. Hons). She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree at the University of Moratuwa while actively working as a research assistant at the Pro Green Lab, University of Moratuwa. With a keen focus on biodiversity conservation and addressing the challenges posed by polythene plastic pollution, she is dedicated to finding innovative solutions that promote a cleaner and healthier environment. Additionally, her interest in wood technology complements her multidisciplinary approach to sustainable practices. Driven by a strong commitment to environmental management, conservation, and waste management, she strives to make a positive impact in these areas. With a passion for exploring new avenues and collaborating with like-minded professionals, she is eager to contribute to meaningful projects that address pressing environmental issues. She can be contacted at https://lk.linkedin.com/in/iresha-s-hewage-4020a2200
