Paul Kwabla Afatsawu
Akatsi College of Education
Email: paulbless2012@gmail.com
Abstract
Effective and efficient use of construction materials is very crucial in achieving project success. Increasingly, construction companies need to develop competitive advantages based on an adequate and intensive use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of construction Material Management Processes. The aim of the dissertation was to explore the application of ICT to materials (MMP) in the construction industry in Ghana. The research design adopted was a quantitative approach using survey questionnaires to collect field data. The key findings included: Organizational Policy, Identification of materials and supervision of workers for usage of store materials, tracking of materials movement and quality materials from suppliers and Working relationship and formal training. Also, it was found that ICT tools application in MMP have positive significant impact on labour productivity (LP). Key barriers that militate against the application of ICT tools included; Technical, environmental and legal reasons, Financial Reasons and Complete Technical Reasons. Benefits identified included; More cost effective projects are achieved, expedite purchasing processes of construction material, Reduction in craft labour cost, a better standard of work and Completion of construction works on schedule. A descriptive framework for categorizing major enabling factors, critical barriers, ICT tools, (LP) and benefits derived was developed. It is recommended that, Stakeholders of construction education in Ghana should make sure that they have adequate ICT content in construction education in addition; Materials managers should have much commitment towards ICT tools application in (MMPs).
Keywords: Materials Management Processes, Ghanaian Construction Industry, Critical Barriers to ICT Application
