Application of Cost Control Techniques in Construction Projects Delivery

Purpose: This research work deals on the application of cost control techniques in Construction project delivery. The need for the work arose as projects suffer from cost and time overruns due to factors stemming from poor cost control during at the design and execution stages of Construction projects. Material and Methods: This study adopted an exploratory research design using a structured questionnaire as the primary instrument for data collection. The research was conducted in Rivers State, Nigeria, known for its robust infrastructure development and relevance to the construction sector. The study population comprised public and private contractors, including civil engineers and quantity surveyors. A random sampling technique was employed to select 50 contractors, considering time and financial constraints. Findings: The analysis of the data obtained from the respondents identified cost control techniques that include schedules, budgeting, inspection, meetings, reports, records, monitoring & evaluations, as the commonly used techniques for cost control.  The study also revealed that most project managers and contractors in Port Harcourt find it difficult in controlling project costs due to problems which include delays by clients to release fund as at when due, indecision, lack of materials and equipment, bad weather, overlapping of activities, unclear and incomplete drawings, making good defective works, and generally failure to control the productivity of resources. Others of paucity were due to theft and vandalism, interference by clients, high labor turnover, and insufficient knowledge on cost control techniques. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy : The study therefore recommends proper knowledge and application of cost control techniques, adequate management of the cost control techniques, good site organization and reporting and adequate supervision of Construction projects should be adopted and implemented.