DETERMINATION OF THE PROSPECT OF PARTNERING AS PROCUREMENT METHOD IN THE NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Thesis Overview

<p> </p><div><strong>INTRODUCTION</strong></div><div><strong>1.1</strong>&nbsp; <strong>Background of the Study</strong></div><div>Due to the complex nature and unique characteristics of the construction industry, construction projects rely on the efficient organization at all levels of the teams involved, including the clients, architects, engineers, contractors and materials providers. A construction project must proceed through stages of concept, scheme design, bidding, contracting, construction, service and maintenance (Chen and Wu, 2010).As suggested by Chen and Wu (2010), construction projects rely on integrated efforts of several hierarchically linked parties (including clients, architects, engineers, general contractors, suppliers and subcontractors) using their differentiated technology, knowledge and skills. These parties are usually independent organizations with different objectives and goals, operating processes and management styles.</div><div>Partnering isdefined by Al-Amoudi(2011), as a strategic commitment between companies or firms in order to develop their performance in a mutual project.It is a strategic action that delivers marked improvements in construction performance. It is driven by a clear understanding of mutual objectives and co-operative decision- making by multiple firms all focused on using feedback to continuously improve their joint performance <strong>(</strong>Chen and Wu 2010). Although the definitions of partnering in construction vary from one study to another, thereexists a common consensus on the key elements of partnering; co-operation and teamwork, commitment, mutual trust and respect, communication, equity, responsiveness.</div> <br><p></p>