Comparative study of delay factors in Libyan and the UK construction industry

Purpose – The aim of the research presented in this paper is to develop a new methodology for the comparative analysis and quantification of the impact of delay factors in construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach – A framework of delay analysis system (DAS) is developed using the findings from the literature review and industry survey. Frequency and severity index method are used to identify and compare the delay factors in Libya and the UK. Statistical experiments are used to test the relationship and confidence level of survey results. A case study of a building project is used to evaluate the functions of the DAS.

Findings – The survey illustrated that construction projects suffered more delays in Libya than the UK. The survey results indicated that critical delay factors are quite different in both countries. The case study found that a building project might be delayed by 41 to 46 days in Libya, or 34 to 38 days in the UK, when considering the most critical delay factors.

Practical implications – The outcome of the study is expected to help policymakers, decision makers and others stakeholders within the construction industry to improve the industry's processes and reduce the impact of delay in the construction operations.

Originality/value – This paper provides a new methodology and a delay analysis system that assists construction managers to analyse and quantify the impact of delay factors in building projects. The system is also expected to provide timely information about possible delays so that necessary measures can be taken to reduce the impact of delays and improve project delivery.