Performance evaluation of building construction projects using earned value analysis (EVA): the case study of jimma University

Abstract

In broad classification of construction projects, building construction project is the one. In building construction project there are many activities should be done to change the drawing into tangible object. During execution of the construction problems are encountered as a consequence of engaged parties problems and/or natural problems. Due to those problems most of the time the best project performance is not achievable. The objective of this study was evaluation of building construction performance in terms of cost performance, time performance and forecast the future project cost by using earned value analysis next to that find out the major responsible causes for variations and to make recommendations for construction parties engaged in building construction projects to improve performance based on the outcome of the study. As a case study, six building construction projects were selected using non-probability purposive sampling, four of them are ongoing, during data collection, and two of them are finished. Data from six construction projects was analyzed using MS Excel and statistical RII formula. Based on the selected building construction projects, all projects showed poor in cost and schedule performances. In result dormitory II and classroom project noted the maximum and minimum schedule variance which was -78 and -35 percent behind schedule time. Similarly canteen and dormitory II projects showed minimum and maximum cost variance by scoring -1 percent and -29.93 percent over budgeted from original budget. The maximum Cost and Schedule performance index values were recorded on canteen and class room projects with values of 0.99 and 0.67. The lowest Cost and Schedule performance index values were recorded on both dormitory II project with values of 0.77 and 0.06. From all six projects, dormitory II project forecasted completion cost showed the highest difference with budgeted at completion. By using RII ranking design change, actual quantity of activity greater than planned and Shortage of skilled and unskilled labor has been top three major responsible causes by scoring RII of 0.912, 0.907 and 0.864 respectively. It is recommended that the owner should be set the scope, cost and time of the project according to actual. Design and material changes should be considered during planning. The contractor should also deliver construction materials and equipment as per schedule. Again the consultants should delivered the drawing as per schedule.