Evaluation of core competencies required by project managers to effectively execute a construction project

Abstract

Construction projects are deemed to be complex due to the uncertainties in-volved in such projects. The project management literature has outlined chal-lenges that are found in construction projects. It points out that major challenges and problems found in construction projects include cost and schedule overruns. To achieve construction project success a project has to be completed within cost, time and quality standards or performance. To attain success has always been difficult due to the lack of skills and competencies required by construction project managers. A project manager that has the desired competencies to effectively manage cost, time and quality standards in construction projects is needed. Poor management of construction projects is not only in South Africa but it’s a global challenge. Through the combination of qualitative and quantitative research method (also known a mixed method) this study evaluates project manager’s competencies with the objectives of determining the appropriate competencies that could assist a project manager to excellently execute construction projects. This thesis points out that for an effective project manager to successfully manage construction projects requires to have high strength on leadership competency to provide pro-ject leadership, communication competency to direct a way forward in a project and problem solving competency to provide feasible solutions. Provision of project leadership refers to a project manager upholding effective working relationships with colleagues, influencing others to work without being pressurised and provision of vision for the team to know their direction. Direct a way forward in a project refers to a project manager effectively communicating project objectives, speaking to encourage team members to perform tasks effi-ciently and listen actively. Provision of feasible solutions refers to a project man-ager having an ability to identify a problem, seeking best solutions when dealing with problems and exhibiting creativity in problem solving.