Managing Ambiguity in Construction Projects in Nigeria: The case for Selecting and Achieving Set Milestones

Abstract

Investigations that explore the knowledge, selection, and influence of milestone management practices on the performance of construction projects are limited. This study examined the dynamics involved in managing ambiguity and achieving set milestones in construction projects in Minna, Nigeria. Using the quantitative method, questionnaires (n = 150) were distributed to obtain data from construction professionals who adopted milestone management practices on their projects, of which 119 responded. This resulted in a remarkable 79% response rate, and high data reliability (0.962) was obtained. Notably, the findings underscore the pivotal role of specific milestone selection criteria in building construction projects as identified and ranked by the respondents. Scope of work (0.861) ranked first; schedule estimation (0.845) and quality assurance (0.845) ranked second; budget significance (0.844) and resource allocation (0.844) ranked third. Further findings show a significant relationship (i.e., p-value = 0.00) between the dynamics of milestone management and the performance of projects. The study accentuates the urgent need for appropriate selection and management of milestones for timely project completion in Nigeria. With this widely known practice, construction professionals would be able to represent and manage work activities and achieve set time expectations regardless of project disruptions.