Impact of uncertainty factors on the performance of building renovation projects

Dandago, A A; Yamusa, M A; Lawal, H S; Abubakar, M; Abdullahi, M and Zailani, B M (2025) Impact of uncertainty factors on the performance of building renovation projects. Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, 23(6), pp. 1875-1897. ISSN 1726-0531

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to assess the extent of the impact of uncertainty factors on renovation project performance. Design/methodology/approach – This study aims to adopt a quantitative approach, using structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess the extent of the impact of uncertainty variables on construction project performance based on data from 226 construction professionals sourced using a questionnaire. Findings – The SEM result indicates four (4) principal uncertainty factors have a significant effect on renovation projects, while the remaining four (4) do not. Results of descriptive and inferential statistics showed that 25 out of 45 identified uncertainty factors have a critical impact on performance, thereby serving as the basis for exploratory factor analysis, which produced an eight-group factor solution. Research limitations/implications – The research is limited to specific locations, as uncertainty factors can be location-sensitive. Further research should be done to assess the Impact of these Uncertainty factors on a specific location and other project types. Practical implications – The study aids practitioners in estimating project costs and durations by identifying uncertainty factors affecting renovation projects. It aids project managers in managing uncertainties to improve cost, quality and schedule and serves as a risk management tool for clients and project managers. Originality/value – The study presents a path model that shows the impact of uncertainty factors on renovation project performance. The insights provided in this study are poised to assist project managers and other construction professionals in planning renovation projects more effectively and successfully.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: performance; projects; renovations; SEM; uncertainty
Index terms: statistics, duration, risk management tool, project performance, construction professional, renovation, project manager, estimating, performance-based, questionnaire, practitioner, construction project, building renovation, methodology, project cost, structural equation modelling, exploratory factor analysis
Subjects: financial and cost management, mathematical modelling, profession, data collection methods, statistical analysis, project controls, project management theory and practice, professional development, economics, performance measurement, renovation and retrofit, practitioner, asset management, financial risk, production management, research methods
Topics: Quality Management, Engineering Principles, Project Management, Time Control, Information Management, Research Practice, Cost Management, Business Strategy, Roles and Professions
Descriptive scope: 4 PCTA

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here