The Application of Design Management Methods for Design Process Success for Construction Projects in Kenya [a Case Study of Nairobi County]

Abstract

The failure of construction projects to meet target objectives is a major concern in developing countries. Even though there are numerous reasons why projects fail, the construction sector faces serious issues that are either directly or indirectly related to poor designs, poor design processes, and poor design management practices. This study discussed the research problem as the need to intentionally apply design management methods to the design process to curb the challenges arising from its complexities and promote project success in Kenya. It was therefore the purpose of this study to investigate whether the arising issues regarding management of the design process of projects, as established by other studies elsewhere, is also true for the Kenya construction industry. The study also evaluated the extent of the application of design management methods on the design process of construction projects in Kenya. This study employed a survey research methodology based on the descriptive studies approach. Data was collected via questionnaires administered to a sample of 63 consulting firms of Architects, Engineers, Quantity Surveyors and Construction Managers in Nairobi. The findings indicate that Chapter 525 of the Laws of Kenya, that contains details of design approaches amongst other regulations, is the most applied plan of work of the design process of construction projects in Kenya. It also found that other design management and evaluation methods identified in literature, exist in the Kenya construction industry but were only used occasionally. The study found that inadequate design time and unclear client briefs are the most significant challenges faced by the design team in the achievement of designs of construction projects in Kenya. The implications of these findings point to the need for designers in Kenya to consider documenting a design process and policies that help stem the negative consequences that are currently existing in the country. The study recommends that design firms should consciously and intentionally apply the established different design management methods so as to improve performance of the designs and the completed buildings. To address the major challenges, design firms should ensure that they interpret client briefs correctly so as to meet client requirements. The study also recommends that designers should explore the use of scientific methods to establish minimum time required to carry out tasks and complete the design processes so as to mitigate the challenge of inadequate design time.