By Joseph Salameh, MEng, MSc (PM), PMP – Expert Witness & Certified Arbitrator, CEO at Experts Project Management LLC
The construction industry in the UAE is suffering from delays and cost overruns caused by design changes that are not handled properly, and their causes are diverse.
While preparing my thesis for the MSc in Project Management (Construction and Infrastructure) at the University of Liverpool in 2013, I identified 26 factors causing post-contract design changes in the UAE, versus 21 factors identified worldwide. Five factors are unique to the UAE construction and infrastructure industry, and all of these factors may apply to the GCC countries as well.
Seven years after that study, and based on our experience with the cases we handle at our company, I found that the study is still valid today. The factors causing post-contract design changes persist, are still not handled properly, and their effect on cost and time for completion keeps increasing.
As a member of the construction and infrastructure industry community, I found it appropriate to share the study I submitted to the University of Liverpool in 2013, as guidance for all professionals in the construction industry, and to invite their thoughts and feedback based on their own experience. Such discussion and idea-sharing are part of my commitment to our community, and I hope it adds value for all of us.
Read the full dissertation
The complete dissertation, Investigation of the factors causing post contract design changes in the UAE construction industry (University of Liverpool, 2013), is available to download:
Download the Full Dissertation (PDF)
Dealing with design changes on your project?
Experts Project Management LLC helps contractors and subcontractors across the GCC evaluate variations and recover the time and cost they are entitled to.
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