Firm Attributes and Performance: A Study of Architectural Firms in Nigeria

Abstract

The performance of architectural firms has been a concern to the professional bodies. Studies have however shown that there are factors within organisations that influence their performance. From the Resource-Based Theory of the Firm, this study aims to identify attributes in the profiles, structure and strategies of architectural firms, which are associated with the success of these firms. The performance of firms is conceptualized according to profitability, while the attributes considered are the ones identified as resources in the Resource-Based Theory of the firm. Data on the attributes and performance of the firms were obtained from a survey of ninety-two randomly selected architectural firms in Nigeria, using questionnaires and interviews. The results of the discriminant analysis carried out show that factors, which were related to the successes of the firms, include the availability of information technology facilities and the level of specialization of duties. The findings suggest that appropriate sizes, professionally qualified staff; and provision and use of IT facilities were areas that architectural firms can concentrate on for enhanced performance. Keywords: Architectural firms, Architectural practice, Firm attributes, Firm Performance, Nigeria, Professional Service Firms.