Programmes for improving the performance of contracting firms in developing countries: A review of approaches and appropriate options

Ofori, G (1991) Programmes for improving the performance of contracting firms in developing countries: A review of approaches and appropriate options. Construction Management and Economics, 9(1), pp. 19-38. ISSN 01446193

Abstract

Contractor development schemes have been part of national programmes for improving the construction industries of developing countries for many years. The nature of, and results obtained from, such schemes have been different from one country to another. This paper considers the issues involved in the efforts to improve the performance of contracting firms in the developing countries. The features of such firms and their operating environments are discussed. With the emphasis on countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South East Asia, existing contractor development programmes are reviewed. Some of the principal factors that might contribute to the success of such programmes are discussed. It is suggested that the programmes should be country-specific and incorporate specific targets. They should be based on objectives that are achievable considering the circumstances in which they will be implemented. Finally, their implementation should be monitored and periodically reviewed.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: contracting; contractor development programmes; developing countries; operating environment; problems
Index terms: construction industry, implementation, South-East Asia, option, developing country, Sub-Saharan Africa, contractor development, programme
Subjects: contractual arrangements, decision analysis, project controls, industry analysis, management, physical geography and landforms, development economics
Topics: Risk Management, Procurement, Research Practice, Geographical Context, Time Control, Organizational Design, International Construction
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

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