Abstract:
The construction industry is characterized by numerous projects that often experience significant
time and cost overruns. These delays have detrimental effects on project success, including
impacts on time, cost, quality, and safety. The existing literature has explored various aspects of
construction project performance, including cost, time, and quality. However, there is a lack of
research specifically focusing on small construction enterprises. This research aimed to assess
the performance of small construction enterprises undertaking construction projects Jimma
University Agaro campus. The general objective of the study was to assess the
performance of small construction enterprises undertaking construction project’s in Jimma
University Agaro Campus. The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, including both
qualitative and quantitative techniques. A total of 76 participants selected from the project
owner, consultants and contractors of construction projects were participated. Simple random
sampling was used after the employees were stratified into project owner, consultants and
contractors. Data were collected through various sources, including surveys, interviews, and
document analysis. Both qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques were employed to
analyze the data. Frequency tables were used to present the quantitative data. The measurement
of time performance indicated that delays were primarily caused by factors such as poor
coordination among project stakeholders and inadequate resource allocation. Finally, the study
identified common challenges faced by small construction enterprises, including poor planning,
limited access to resources, and insufficient communication and coordination. Cost overruns and
time delays were observed. The identified factors contributing to these challenges include poor
planning, inadequate resource allocation, lack of effective communication, and coordination
among project stakeholders. To address the identified issues and improve the performance of
small construction enterprises recommendations are made for responsible stakeholdrs.
