Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Cost overruns in construction projects continue to be a significant challenge faced by the construction industry worldwide. These overruns not only impact project budgets but also lead to delays, disputes, and overall project inefficiencies. This thesis aims to analyze the factors contributing to cost overruns in construction projects through a case study approach. The research methodology includes a thorough literature review, data collection from multiple construction projects, and detailed analysis of the findings. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter 2 presents a comprehensive literature review, covering ten key aspects related to cost overruns in construction projects. The review synthesizes existing knowledge and identifies gaps in the literature that this study aims to address. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology, detailing the research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for the case studies and provides a rationale for the chosen approach. The research methodology ensures the reliability and validity of the study findings. In Chapter 4, the findings of the case study analysis are presented and discussed in detail. The analysis identifies the primary factors contributing to cost overruns in construction projects, such as poor project management, inaccurate cost estimation, scope changes, and external factors. The chapter explores the interrelationships between these factors and their impact on project outcomes. Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing their implications for the construction industry, and providing recommendations for practitioners and policymakers to mitigate cost overruns in construction projects. The conclusion highlights the importance of proactive risk management, effective communication, and continuous monitoring to prevent cost overruns and improve project performance. Overall, this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on cost overruns in construction projects by providing a detailed analysis of the factors influencing project costs and offering practical insights for project stakeholders. The findings of this study have implications for project management practices, cost estimation techniques, and decision-making processes in the construction industry, ultimately aiming to enhance project efficiency and success.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Analysis of Cost Overruns in Construction Projects: A Case Study Approach" aims to investigate the factors contributing to cost overruns in construction projects and explore potential solutions to mitigate these overruns. Cost overruns are a common challenge in the construction industry, leading to delays, disputes, and financial losses for all parties involved. By focusing on a case study approach, this research seeks to provide a detailed analysis of real-world scenarios to understand the root causes of cost overruns and identify effective strategies for cost management. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing studies, theories, and best practices related to cost overruns in construction projects. By synthesizing this information, the study aims to build a solid theoretical foundation for the analysis. The literature review will cover various aspects such as the causes of cost overruns, the impact on project performance, and different cost management techniques employed in the industry. Following the literature review, the research will delve into the methodology section, outlining the research design, data collection methods, and analytical techniques used in the study. The methodology will incorporate a mix of qualitative and quantitative approaches to gather data from multiple case studies, enabling a thorough investigation into the factors influencing cost overruns. The findings section will present a detailed analysis of the case studies, highlighting common trends, patterns, and key factors contributing to cost overruns in construction projects. This section aims to provide valuable insights into the specific challenges faced by project stakeholders and offer practical recommendations for improving cost management practices. In the conclusion and summary section, the research will consolidate the key findings and implications of the study, emphasizing the importance of proactive cost management strategies in construction projects. By critically evaluating the case study findings, the research aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on cost overruns and provide guidance for industry practitioners, project managers, and policymakers on how to effectively address this pervasive issue. Overall, this research project on the "Analysis of Cost Overruns in Construction Projects: A Case Study Approach" seeks to advance understanding of cost management challenges in the construction industry and offer evidence-based recommendations for enhancing project performance and reducing financial risks associated with cost overruns.