Project Abstract

Abstract
Contract drawings play a crucial role in the successful execution of building projects. This research aims to investigate the influence of contract drawings on building projects by examining how the quality, accuracy, and clarity of contract drawings impact various aspects of the construction process. The study will explore the relationship between contract drawings and project cost, schedule, quality, and overall project success. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of project data with qualitative interviews and surveys of project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients. The quantitative analysis will involve examining a sample of building projects to assess the correlation between the quality of contract drawings and project outcomes such as cost overruns, delays, and rework. The qualitative component will involve gathering insights from stakeholders on the challenges and benefits associated with contract drawings. The findings of this research are expected to provide valuable insights for improving the preparation and use of contract drawings in building projects. By identifying the factors that contribute to effective contract drawings and understanding how these drawings impact project outcomes, stakeholders will be better equipped to address challenges and optimize project performance. The research aims to contribute to the body of knowledge on construction management and project delivery by highlighting the importance of clear and accurate contract drawings in ensuring project success. The implications of this research extend to various stakeholders involved in building projects. Architects can use the findings to enhance the quality of their drawings and improve communication with other project team members. Engineers can gain insights into how their design information is translated into contract drawings and construction documents. Contractors can better understand the importance of thorough reviews of contract drawings and the impact on project cost and schedule. Clients can also benefit from the research by understanding the role of contract drawings in project delivery and quality assurance. Overall, this research seeks to shed light on the critical role of contract drawings in building projects and provide practical recommendations for enhancing their effectiveness. By addressing the challenges associated with contract drawings and promoting best practices in their preparation and use, stakeholders can contribute to the successful delivery of building projects and improve overall industry performance.

Project 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.