Thesis Abstract

The abstract is as follows Contract drawings are a crucial component of building projects as they serve as the visual representation of the design intent and specifications agreed upon between the parties involved. This research project aims to investigate the influence of contract drawings on building projects. The study will explore how the quality, accuracy, and level of detail in contract drawings impact various aspects of the construction process, including project timelines, costs, and overall project success. A comprehensive review of existing literature on the subject will be conducted to establish a theoretical framework for the research. This will involve examining previous studies, industry reports, and best practices related to contract drawings in building projects. The research will also analyze case studies of real building projects to understand the practical implications of contract drawings on project outcomes. The methodology for this research project will involve both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Surveys and interviews will be conducted with architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders involved in building projects to gather insights on their experiences with contract drawings. Additionally, project data such as construction timelines, change orders, and project costs will be analyzed to assess the impact of contract drawings on project performance. The findings of this research project are expected to provide valuable insights for improving the use and management of contract drawings in building projects. By understanding how contract drawings influence project outcomes, stakeholders can make more informed decisions during the design and construction phases to mitigate risks and optimize project delivery. The research outcomes will contribute to the body of knowledge in the construction industry and inform best practices for project stakeholders. In conclusion, this research project will investigate the influence of contract drawings on building projects, focusing on how the quality and accuracy of contract drawings impact project outcomes. By examining the theoretical and practical aspects of contract drawings, the research aims to provide recommendations for enhancing the use of contract drawings in building projects. Ultimately, the findings of this study will help project stakeholders improve project performance and achieve successful project delivery.

Thesis Overview

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Working /contract drawing according to Thomas and Marvin (1978), working drawings are defined to be a communication medium whose purpose is to graphically convey the design requirement for a construction project.They control the design by indicating the construction in considerable detail; if they are sufficiently detailed, a competent builder can construct the project in accordance with the design and without confusion. Nowadays, many building clients are curious of knowing their probable cost of having a particular building before the commencement of the work. However, the task of making the cost known to the building client entailed arrays of exercise to be done by the professionals involved, stating from the design stage up to the practical completion of the project, the design stage encompasses various activities, such as, the client brief, site investigation, skeletal design, construction design and finally the contract/working drawings which can be passed to the quantity surveyor and finally issued to the contractor.These are expected to be the minimum numbers of drawings which give production information showing all relevant information’s from consultant transferred to agreed scale, exchanges details and exploiting the values of three dimensional sketches.The information is read to gather by the client, the estimator and the site agents. Seely (2008), believed that drawing should show the nature and scope of work to be carried out under the contract. They are to be detailed and comprehensive of bill of quantities. It is also to assist the contractor to accurately price and carry out the work satisfactorily.Drawings are expected to have description and explanatory notes clearly defined, legible and free from abbreviations amplified figured dimension should be inserted in the drawing to ensure maximum accuracy in taking off quantities and in setting out construction work on site. Turner (2003), referred to the design and quality of the finished work as a major feature of the contract document. Contract drawings should show the positioning of the building members or a supplementary non-contract document. These contract drawings will include: architectural, structural and services.