Assessment of Relationship between Project Consultants and the Performance of Construction Projects: A Case of Rwanda Urban Development Project I

Abstract

In several of Rwanda's key industries, including construction, there is a chronic lack of qualified project consultants. In most cases, the owner of a building project places his trust in the words of the contract agreements between himself and the builders or project contractors. The general objective of this research assessed the relationship between project consultants and performance of construction projects in Rwanda. This study had the following specific objectives: to find out the relationship between cost management consultancy and performance of Rwanda Urban Development Project I, examine the relationship between scope management consultancy and performance of Rwanda Urban Development Project I, determine the relationship between risk management consultancy and performance of Rwanda Urban Development Project I and analyze the relationship between stakeholders participation consultancy and performance of Rwanda Urban Development Project I. The survey design collected data via the use of questionnaires, while the correlational approach investigates the connection between the variables under consideration analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Target population of this study was 138 staff of Rwanda Urban Development Project in City of Kigali, Huye, Muhanga, Musanze, Nyagatare, Rubavu, Nyagatare and Rusizi District. Sample size was determined by the help of Solvin’s formula. For this study, 103 Questionnaires used to collect quantitative and qualitative data related on Rwanda Urban Development Project I. To analyze the data gathered, the researcher used Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) statistical methodology.  The correlation coefficient (R) of 0.858 indicates a strong positive relationship between the combined consultancy factors (Stakeholders Participation, Scope Management, Risk Management, and Cost Management) and project performance. The coefficient of determination (R squared) at 0.736 suggests that approximately 73.6% of the variability in project performance can be explained by the variation in these combined consultancy factors. This highlights the significant influence of these consultancies on enhancing project outcomes. To enhance the relationship between cost management consultancy and project performance in Rwanda Urban Development Project I, it is recommended to implement robust cost estimation techniques, regularly monitor budget variances, and employ advanced cost forecasting models. Keywords: Project Consultants, Cost Management, Scope Management, Risk Management, Stakeholders Participation and Project Performance