Exploring effective contract management strategies: a case study of selected construction projects of Public Works Department (PWD)

Abstract

Contract management is one of the most important phases in construction projects and involves numerous tasks occurring before and after contract execution and issuance of Notification of Award (NOA). Furthermore, contract management involves making timely decisions, smooth and efficient flow of information and decisions to enable completion of the project as required by the contract documents, including review, supervision and monitoring of the construction project. PWD is responsible for the construction of infrastructure along with providing service to 24 ministries. It is one of eight executing organs in the Ministry of Housing and Public Works. It is also the Government's biggest construction agency. PWD procure goods, works and services as a large scale. This case study is concerned with PWD officials, addressing the present practice of contract management in works procurement and its knowledge among themselves. The study summarizes that PWD officials have moderate understanding on contract management issues though some field level staffs have little knowledge of it in procurement process. Procurement system follows the all clauses which are mentioned in PPR- 2025 and STDs published by BPPA. Adequate training on contract management plan for all stakeholders including procuring entities, contractors and beneficiaries is very important in order to increase knowledge. Finally, there is scope of further study about the issues in works procurement.