Construction Management

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Assessment of Price Adjustment Practice on Public Building projects; The Case of Selected Projects in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-04-01) Hamdu Nesru; Tadesse Ayalew (PhD)
The construction sector contributes significantly to a nation's GDP, which is crucial for economic growth and development in terms of the development of physical infrastructure. Ethiopia allocates a huge amount of budget for the development of public projects. Even though most public projects in Ethiopia face challenges to complete successfully within in planned budget and specified time frame. Ethiopia's building industry has faced difficulties due to market price fluctuations and inadequacies of the necessary construction inputs. The study looks into how Addis Ababa's public building projects are affected by price escalation in terms of project performance in terms of project cost and time overrun. The study employed a case study methodology to investigate how escalation affects public construction projects. Systematic sampling techniques were applied for the selection of a few best fit cases and focused on detailed contextual analysis. To measure the impact of price escalation on public building projects, construction material prices were investigated for a different period, and contract documents were reviewed and analyzed to explore the current price adjustment practice to overcome the risk of escalation by crosschecking the provision of different conditions of contract forms. The research shows that the price adjustment practices observed in the selected cases were different on the subject of selected construction inputs for the price adjustment, non-adjustable portion, permissible weighting/ coefficient, and the source of price/index. The number of representative elements for the price adjustment component, fixing non-adjustable factor, and establishment of permissible weight/coefficient was not consistent in the selected cases in this study. On the other hand, Addis Ababa Construction Bureau implements price adjustment evaluation for projects having a duration of less than 18 months in setting a new unit rate in assessing the direct cost of each work item. Assessment of Price Adjustment Practice on Public Building projects; The Case of Selected Projects Hamdu Nesru , MSc In Construction Management 2025 vi In conclusion, escalation is a major challenge facing the construction sector in Ethiopia. The high escalation rate on the price of construction materials, labor and other inputs made it difficult to complete public building projects on schedule within budget. Key Words: Construction Projects, Price Escalation, Price Adjustment
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Bus Priority Systems and Their Challenges: The Case of Mexico to German Roundabout, Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Nyamouch Simon; Berhanu Woldetensae (Associate Professor)
Bus priority system are increasingly recognized as a key component of sustainable urban transportation, offering solutions to congestion and improving public transport efficiency. They are one solution that can help address the challenges faced by the bus transport system in Addis Ababa. This system improves public transport on the road network by providing buses with dedicated lanes, signal priority, and other elements that reduce travel times and improve reliability by looking at the challenges that affect urban mobility. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative traffic data with qualitative input from stakeholders. the study aims how well bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors, dedicated bus lanes, and signal prioritization may improve bus service dependability and cut down on trip times. although concerns such as poor lane markings, enforcement gaps, and lack of public awareness persist. The study finds that well-designed bus priority schemes can reduce bus travel time by 66% and improve service reliability by 68%. Targeted recommendations emphasize improve enforcement, periodic infrastructure maintenance, enhanced public awareness, and integrated institutional collaboration. Key words: Bus priority system, road infrastructure, Sustainable Urban Transport, Challenges
Assessing the significance of dedicated bike lanes for sustainable mobility in the Jemo-Mebrat Haile corridor in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Solomon Kushu; Tesfaye Hailu
This study assesses the contribution of dedicated bike lanes to sustainable mobility within the Jemo-Mebrat Haile corridor in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, necessitated by rapid urbanization and increasing traffic congestion. Utilized a mixed-methods approach, the research employed a purposive sampling method to survey 60 active cyclists using the corridor's bike lanes, with inclusion criteria focused on regular users. Key findings indicate that bike lanes significantly improve cycling accessibility, yet perceived safety remains a critical concern (2.8/5) due to inadequate enforcement and obstructions, acting as the strongest predictor of usage. The study also highlights gender disparities in safety perception and reveals that utilitarian motives like health/exercise (50%) and commuting (35%) are the primary drivers for bike lane use, rather than environmental concerns, alongside a critical need for infrastructure upgrades, policy enforcement, and network expansion. In conclusion, while the bike lanes are a foundational step towards sustainable mobility, their full potential is hindered by issues of safety, enforcement, and integration, leading to recommendations for strategic investments in physical barriers, enhanced policy enforcement, inclusive design, and integrated urban planning to maximize their effectiveness and sustainability in Addis Ababa and similar African urban contexts. Keywords: Urban cycling infrastructure, bike lane effectiveness, sustainable transportation, Addis Ababa, transport policy, active mobility
Exploring Suitability of 3d Scanning Tools to Enhance Facility Management Practices in Ethiopia: The Case of As-Built Modelling Using Ios 3d Scanning Tools
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Selamab Simeon Sumoro; Denamo Addissie (PhD)
which involves ensuring its functionality, safety, efficiency, and overall performance by overseeing the operation, maintenance, and enhancement. In maintenance period, conventional Manual method of measurement, which works without the use of automated or computerized systems, of existing buildings is a common method used currently, these manual method approaches are subjected to human errors, since it is done through human manual collaboration which can lead to measurement inaccuracies. These inaccuracies could cause distinctness with existing condition when performing facility maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. Moreover, this method takes a lot of time and effort. When working in large and complicated facilities in particular, it can be a laborious and tiresome process to manually measure, sketch, and annotate the drawings. In this study the way of using technology aid instruments like 3D scanning usage is investigated. Moreover, it studied the perceived difference of the measurement methodologies between these conventional and 3D scanning tools. the data collection and data analysis are done by taking scanned data from existing buildings taken from Addis Ababa residential buildings. The focus group discussion is also taken to reach the challenges of implementing the 3D scanning devices in Ethiopia. It is seen using 3D scanning tools would decrease a time and an effort with more accurate results and give more detailed information with in the same consumed time than traditional measurement system. Then, after comparing two methods, this study figured out what has been the challenges for the vast applicability of this 3D scanning tools in construction sector. It gives some emphasis on which the barriers making applicability of 3D scanning tools on construction firms of Ethiopia. Some are awareness of construction sector which is a limited exposure to these technologies in academic institutions reduced awareness among professionals. And also, the budget issues that is the high cost of advanced 3D scanning tools that are workable for institutions has been a barrier for applicability of 3D scanning tools. Which means a developing country like Ethiopia could have a struggle since budget shortages. After analysing these challenges, this study develops the suitable approach for applicability of this 3D scanning tools in Ethiopia. And finally, the study sets some conclusions and future directions to improve the applicability of these tools in vast. Key words: - Facility management, Maintenance, Existing building, As built modelling, 3D scanning, iOS device
Intermittent Water Supply and Aging Infrastructure as Determinants of Water Quality: Evidence from Lideta Subcity, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05-01) Dawit Degefa; Tesfaye Hailu
This study assesing the compounded effects of intermittent water supply (IWS) and aging infrastructure on water quality in Wereda 04 and 05 of Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates hydraulic modeling—applying the HazenWilliams equation, chlorine decay analysis, and water age estimation—with field inspections, household surveys, and stakeholder interviews. Framed by systems theory, infrastructure lifecycle theory, and public health models, the study identifies critical zones with low flow velocities (below 0.3 m/s) and extended water residence times (exceeding 8–10 hours), which contribute to reduced disinfectant levels and microbial contamination. Field observations revealed severe pipe corrosion and leakage, while community feedback highlighted discolored water, unpleasant odor, and reliance on unsafe coping strategies such as prolonged storage and alternative water sources. The findings confirm that IWS and aging infrastructure interact to degrade water quality and public trust. In response, the study recommends: Prioritize Replacement of Aged and Corroded Pipelines, Reconfigure Network Layout to Reduce Dead-End Segments, Upgrade Storage and Elevation Infrastructure, Establish Routine Maintenance and Inspection and Integrate Hydraulic Modeling into Planning . Key Words: Intermittent Water Supply (IWS), Urban Water Quality, Ageing Water Infrastructure, Hydraulic Modeling, Chlorine Decay
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Reversible Lanes in Reducing Traffic Congestion: A Case Study of Key Corridors in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Ephrem Zeleke; Ephrem Gebremariam
Traffic congestion is a pressing issue in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, requiring innovative traffic management strategies, beyond constructing and expanding infrastructure. This study evaluates the effectiveness of reversible lanes in reducing peak hour congestion. Two roads, Asko to Winget and Mexico to Mesqel Square, were selected, representing peripheral and central areas of the city, respectively. Traffic data were collected at major intersections along these roads using video recording, and SUMO traffic simulation was used to analyze key parameters, including travel time, speed, time loss and traffic volume under existing conditions and proposed reversible lane scenarios. From reversible lanes setups, a two-lane reversible configuration provided the best network wide performance, where travel time and time loss reduced by 27.44% and 32.33%, Speed increased by 2.84% while traffic flow slightly decrease by 7.91%. However, no improvement on Mexico to Mesqel Square is gained due to balanced flows and westbound losses. The study also identified directional volume imbalance, number of reversible lanes, traffic light systems, intersections number and spacing as the major factors influencing effectiveness. Based on the findings, this study recommends the implementation of reversible lanes on major roads connecting the outskirts of the city to the center to optimize capacity without land acquisition, supported by adaptive signals and bus priority lanes to minimize disruptions. Additionally, the research recommends road specific traffic simulation studies before implementing such strategies. Moreover, the research provides valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking data-driven approaches to traffic management in Addis Ababa and other cities facing similar challenges. Keywords: congestion, reversible lanes, microsimulation, intersections
Waste for Value: Designing Small-Scale Energy Recovery Centers for Apartment Dwellers in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Yasmin Teleha; Tesfaye Hailu
This research investigates the feasibility and transformative potential of small-scale waste-toenergy (WtE) systems in Addis Ababa’s apartment complexes to address escalating solid waste management challenges and foster sustainable urban development. The study aimed to design community-driven WtE solutions that minimize landfill dependency and produce renewable energy. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrated quantitative waste characterization, resident surveys, technical assessments, and qualitative stakeholder interviews across three apartment complexes of varying sizes in diverse neighbourhood. The research quantified waste generation patterns, revealing substantial organic waste suitable for WtE conversion, and evaluated technologies, identifying anaerobic digestion (AD) as the most viable due to its compatibility with high-moisture organic waste, low emissions and compact design suitable for urban constraints. Technical assessments confirmed AD’s feasibility, particularly in medium complexes, where sufficient basement space and garbage chute availability facilitate integration, producing energy for communal lighting or cooking. Socially, strong resident willingness to sort waste, motivated by incentives like energy credits, supports adoption, though challenges such as social stigma around waste handling and irregular collection require targeted interventions like resident committees and awareness campaigns. Economically, AD systems are viable with initial costs offset by potential savings and subsidies, aligning with global models like Bangalore’s residential AD success. The study proposes AD pilots in medium complexes to reduce landfill pressure, enhance energy reliability amidst frequent outages, and position Addis Ababa as a model for contributing to urban resilience and sustainable development goals. Keywords: waste-to-energy, anaerobic digestion, solid waste management, apartment complexes
The Level of Women’s Involvement in Project Management Positions in the Ethiopian Construction Industry
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-04-01) Serawit Getachew; Denamo Addissie (PhD)
This study explores the extent of women’s involvement in project management positions within the Ethiopian construction industry, with a particular focus on Addis Ababa. Despite increasing awareness of gender equity, gender diversity improves innovation and decision-making in construction, women remain significantly underrepresented in leadership roles across the sector. Most existing studies in Ethiopia focus on general construction roles and there is a lack of practical frameworks to support women’s advancement in PM roles. Therefore, the study aims to assess the level of female representation, identify the challenges hindering their participation, and propose effective interventions to enhance gender inclusion in project management roles. The conceptual and empirical literature review with relevant international and Ethiopian experiences was conducted to examine key challenges, representation gaps, and strategies for career advancement. A mixed-method research approach was adopted, combining quantitative data from 394 survey respondents drawn from a population of 25,000 licensed construction professionals, with qualitative insights from interviews and a focus group discussion involving female project managers. The research employed descriptive statistical analysis for quantitative data using SPSS, and thematic analysis for qualitative data to ensure comprehensive interpretation. Findings reveal that women constitute a small minority in project management roles less than 10% and face multiple structural, institutional, and socio-cultural barriers. The study identifies 6 major challenges, including physical demands, Unequal Job opportunities between men and women, gender bias, lack of mentorship and training programs, work-life imbalance, and Unsociable work hours and harsh working condition. Moreover, only a few companies reported having active goals or policies to promote female leadership. The research concludes that there is an urgent need for sector-wide strategic interventions, including gender-sensitive recruitment policies, mentorship programs, flexible work arrangements, and targeted leadership training. These measures are essential not only for enhancing women’s participation in project management but also for improving overall organizational effectiveness and equity in the Ethiopian construction sector. Keywords: Women in Construction, Project Management, Gender Inclusion, Ethiopian Construction Industry, Leadership Barriers, Addis Ababa
Infrastructure Integration in Historic Places: Case of Shonke Village, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-03-01) Hiwot Ergetie; Zegeye Chernet (PhD)
Historic urban development presents unique challenges, the risks of neglect on one hand and over-commercialization on the other, making preservation and modernization a complex task. This study explores how to manage this balance through infrastructure integration in the historic place of Shonke Village. The research employed a single case study design and a mixed-methods approach, utilizing qualitative and quantitative research methods. Primary data were collected through survey, key informant interview, focus group discussion, and transect walks, while secondary data were collected from published and unpublished sources. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to select 89 household heads, 10 key informants, and 7 Focus group discussion participants, ensuring diverse perspectives and representation. Transect walks along four routes provided valuable observations on the village's infrastructure, historic features, and land use patterns, offering insights into the unique opportunities and challenges of the places. The collected data is analyzed using spatial, thematic, statistical, and comparative methods. The study highlights that Shonke Village possesses a rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage with sustainable development potential. However, inadequate infrastructure like water, sanitation, energy, transportation, and ICT threatens heritage and drives resident relocation. Notably, it proposes hybrid renewable energy, eco toilets, and sustainable transportation. Focusing on small targeted interventions that generate ripple effects across social, cultural, environmental, and economic domains, the proposed solutions aim to improve essential services, foster economic growth, attract tourism, and preserve Shonke’s cultural heritage. The findings underscore that strategic infrastructure improvement is grounded in a nuanced understanding of a place's cultural values, social needs, physical context, economic vitalities, and environmental considerations. This research contributes to the broader discourse on urban planning in heritage-rich cities, offering a model for harmonizing development with preservation through locally rooted, context-sensitive infrastructure solutions. Keywords: Integrated infrastructure, Urban Planning, Heritage Preservation, Shonke Village
Assessment of Quality Management Practices of Selected Façade Materials
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Hawi Bogale; Tadesse Ayalew (PhD)
This research investigates the quality management practices of wall exterior finishing materials in public construction projects in Addis Ababa. The study aims to identify commonly used finishing materials, assess the quality planning, control, and assurance the current practices applied, examine the key factors affecting their performance, and propose a guideline for improvement. To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative data through questionnaires, interviews, site observations, and document reviews. Triangulation was applied to ensure the reliability of findings across projects handled by the Addis Ababa Design and Construction Works Bureau, Addis Ababa Housing Development Corporation, and the Ministry of Health. The spatial scope of the study is limited to public building projects located within Addis Ababa, while the thematic scope centers on quality management practices related to wall exterior finishing materials specifically focusing on quality planning, quality control, and quality assurance. The study covers mid-rise (5-12) story public buildings constructed over the past fifteen years. Key findings reveal that durability, availability, and cost-efficiency dominate material selection, while sustainability, safety, and compatibility with other systems are often overlooked. Gaps were identified in documentation practices, material integration, and design specification clarity. Inadequate quality assurance systems and incomplete design documents prior to material procurement were common across projects. These issues have contributed to delays, increased costs, and reduced durability of exterior finishes. The study mentions strengthening design documentation, enforcing material compatibility assessments during the planning stage, and institutionalizing design review mechanisms before material procurement. These measures are vital for enhancing quality management practices and ensuring more sustainable and resilient public infrastructure in Addis Ababa. Key words: Exterior finishing materials, Quality management, public building projects, Quality planning, Quality control, Quality assurance, façade defects
Assessment of Construction Material Management Practice in Federal Housing Corporation Projects
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-04-01) Huda Ahmed; Tadesse Ayalew (PHD)
Material management practice involves planning, procuring, transporting, logistics, inspection, receiving, storage, and controlling material usage in construction projects. Ineffective management, poor procurement, delayed delivery, inadequate storage, and poor control systems can negatively impact project budget and completion time. The study evaluates construction material management practices at Federal Housing Corporation projects, focusing on planning, procurement, transport, logistics, handling, storage, inspection, wastage control, challenges, stakeholder involvement, and identifying best practices, aiming to provide direction for future projects. This study involved questionnaires and document reviews to gather data from contractors, clients, site counter engineers, and FHC-hired consultants involved in FHC projects. The study reveals current practices in material handling, inventory control, and material tracking, but also highlights challenges such as market fluctuations, incomplete design, local trafficking, and wastage. Stakeholders like owners, contractors, and consultants are involved in material delivery, quality planning, and schedules. Consultants focus on continuous inspections and follow-ups for material and work progress. Finally, the study suggests that effective material management techniques improve overall handling, site delivery, and prevent unexpected price variations from impacting project budget and completion time. Keyword: Material, material management practice, construction project, FHC projects
Assessing the Current Management Practice of Price Escalation and Its Effects on Cost Performance for Federal Public Building Projects
(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Saron Gebeyaw Alemu; Solomon Sertse Desta
In a country like Ethiopia, the construction sector is one of the major contributors tonational growth. Despite its importance in one country growth its performance, theindustry has faced many challenges during the last few years. One of the major reasons identified by different researchers is price escalation in the inputs of the construction projects. This study assesses the management practice of price escalation and its effect on the cost performance of federal public building projects. The research is descriptive and explanatory in nature and employed a mixed-method approach (both qualitative and Quantitative) with case study methodology. Four suitable cases from Universities located in Addis Ababa city were selected, and document review was used as a data collection instrument and utilized both primary and secondary data. For analyzing the collected data, the researcher used content and thematic analysis with within case analysis and cross-case analysis. In addition to these, the researcher uses four themes for analyzing the data: a description of the case, identifying the increment of major materials, labor, and equipment, assessing the effect of price escalation on each project's cost performance, and identifying the price adjustment techniques, source of price, and weightage for each project. The study investigates the impact of material price escalation on the cost performance of selected construction projects. Price increment were analyzed across various activities in both substructure and superstructure elements. In Project A, the maximum increment in the substructure was 49% for the 500 mm thick mat slab, while the superstructure’s 180 mm thick floor and roof beams experienced an escalation of 89%. For Project B, the substructure’s 200 mm thick suspended ground floor slab showed the highest increase at 85%, with a similar escalation of 88% seen in the superstructure’s 270 mm thick flat roof slab. Project C recorded an 84% increment in the foundation pad for the substructure, while the 180 mm thick roof slab led in the superstructure with an 87% increase. And also in Project D, the footing in the substructure had the greatest escalation at 91%, alongside the superstructure’s elevation column, which increased by 88%. And also, the results showed that there were different management practices used by contractors to overcome the challenges of price escalation. To enhance effectiveness, the study recommends early implementation of contractual adjustments and proactive cost management strategies in building projects. In the future, studies should focus on regularly developing construction resource price indices, analyzing the influence of finishing material cost fluctuations on project outcomes, and evaluating the contractor’s cost structure to better address non-adjustable contract elements. Key word: construction; Cost Performance; Price escalation
Root Causes of Poor Contractors’ Performance in Construction - A Case of Selected Public Building Projects in Addis Ababa
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08-01) Derege Yemanebirhan; Asregedew Kassa(PhD)
Building contractors play a pivotal role in construction projects, influencing their success or failure. This study investigates the underlying factors contributing to subpar performance among contractors involved in selected public building projects in Addis Ababa. A cross-sectional study was conducted, encompassing ongoing and recently completed projects, involving key stakeholders from Ethiopian building construction organizations. The research utilized a probability sampling technique—stratified, proportional, and random sampling—to select participants. Data collection employed a semi-structured questionnaire and interview checklist. The findings identify several root causes of contractors’ poor performance, including cost-related issues, human resources challenges, and management deficiencies. Delayed payments, variations in project scope, fraudulent practices, corruption, decreased labor productivity, and compliance issues with procurement laws emerged as significant concerns. The study underscores that under performing contractors jeopardize their profitability and sustainability within the local construction sector. In conclusion, the study recommends timely payment to contractors and swift resolution of payment-related disputes by clients. It also suggests that contractors consider securing bank financing to manage short-term cash flow challenges, with the expectation of repaying such loans promptly upon receipt of client payments. These measures are critical for improving contractors’ performance and ensuring the successful execution of public building projects in Addis Ababa. Key Words: Contractor Performance, Public Building Projects, Addis Ababa
Spatial and Physical Qualities of Public Recreational Parks in Addis Ababa: The Case of Selected Inner City Recreational Parks
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-05-01) Salem Gulilat Tilahun; Darik Zebenigus Wuhib (PhD)
Public spaces are an important part of cities as they contribute to improvements in quality of life and urban development. Additionally, urban residents' "quality of life" is the result of their interactions with the physical and urban environment. Many studies indicate that public recreational parks are fundamental physical component of a city to attain livability, environmental quality, social integrity and sustainability. They also show that they are a driving force to improve quality of life. The Addis Ababa city administration launched projects on public space in response to the inadequate physical and spatial quality to rehabilitate and newly develop the substandard recreational parks. However, the lack of standard criteria for the design and quality assessment of public space, especially public recreational parks, made it difficult to maintain the physical and spatial quality of the parks. Research on the human aspects of uses and related activity in recreational parks is also disregarded. There is also an inefficient and inconsistent evaluation on the recreational park spatial and physical changes by the responsible organization. The general objective of this study is to assess the success of public recreational parks' physical and spatial quality in the inner city of Addis Ababa. It focuses on operating three public recreation parks in Addis Ababa, Ambassador Park, Lideta Park, and Sheger Park. In the study, the case study method was employed using observational studies and closed-ended questionnaires. The selected case study areas were analyzed according to Site Specific Assessment frameworks, use and user, accessibility, amenities & furniture, comfort & safety, and a green environment, using quality indicator scores ranging from one to five. The study's findings indicated that the recreational spaces in the case study locations, Lideta Park and Sheger Park, are inadequate, below site-specific standards, and have poor spatial and physical quality. The parks have fewer users with low social interaction, and the users were unsatisfied. Ambassador Park gets a medium score despite, inclusion, sustainability, and energy efficiency issues. The park has better physical and spatial quality where users have a better experience of public space and quality of life. Users prefer to enjoy and stay longer and engage in social interaction. Therefore, using research-based planning approaches, general recreational park standards must be developed and implemented to improve the quality of existing recreational parks and guide newly designed public recreational spaces. Key Words: Public Space, Public Recreational Parks, Spatial and Physical Quality Dimension i
Assessment on Practice of Real Property Valuation for Collateral in Addis Ababa: in the Case of Two Selected Private Commercial Banks
(Addis Ababa University, 2023-08-01) Agernew Aseres Alene; Teshome Tefera (PhD)
The main aim of the study is to assess the existing practice of real property valuation for collateral in the case of commercial banks in Addis Ababa; and investigate if the practice is consistent among the banks and to check if the practices are compatible to the internationally accepted principles. In order to accomplish this objective, the real property valuation practice for collateral in banks was considered as a real-life context as existing phenomenon; thus, appropriate case study method is deployed to investigate the aforementioned valuation related matters in the selected banks in Addis Ababa. The case study method allowed the researcher to use a variety of data using multiple data collection mechanisms that facilitated the validation of data through triangulation. It also helped the researcher avoid bias and error of data. The study assessed the local and international guidelines related to real property valuation, manuals of selected banks and Ethiopian bankers association. And, it finally benchmarking practice of real property valuation on Ethiopian banks’ guidelines is done based on the findings. The study revealed that each bank has its own valuation manual and procedures to do valuation. The amount of loan given to borrowers is not based on the market value of the property. In addition, the value of a property estimated by the banks doesn’t predict the actual market price but on securing the bank from risk as much as possible to ensure the banks can get their money back in case of default. Thus, properties are compulsorily undervalued by the lending banks and restricts the borrowing potential of investors and firms. Almost all commercial banks employ cost method due to availability of relevant comparative cost data, the difficulty in updating rental rates of buildings, and lack of stability in the Ethiopian property market. The depreciated replacement cost method of building valuation and determination of land value of land use right are not also compatible to the generally accepted standards due absence of income and expense data of subject and comparable property. The study recommended the need to minimize variation of value; revisit the existing land property law; align the standards to the generally accepted practice; develop standardized valuation framework in banks, and it is also strongly recommended that valuators need to demonstrate appropriate academic/professional qualifications, and technical competence to improve the practice.. Key words: real property, collateral, basis of valuation, valuation methods, location value
Comparative Construction Cost analysis of Selected Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build Road Projects in Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2020-12-01) Muluken Shibru; Solomon Sertse (PhD)
Design-bid-build (DBB) and Design-build (DB) are the two common Project Delivery Systems (PDSs) that have been used widely in the international and local construction industry. For DB projects, during tendering, unlike the DBB’s contractor, the responsive design-builder offers a lump-sum amount using incomplete detailed engineering design. Although the DB PDS provides better cost certainty, that certainty may come at a higher premium as compared to DBB. This is because the design-builder allocates a certain risk factor to compensate for the design risk as well as for the lack of information to estimate the work quantities. Previous studies have demonstrated the cost certainty in favor of DB projects than DBB; however, it lacks to examine the amount of risk that comes with cost certainty. To fill this gap, this research undertakes a cost comparison between road projects delivered through the DBB and DB PDS using their cost-per-kilometer. It involves seven road projects (three DBB and four DB projects) tendered by the Ethiopian Roads Authority (ERA) from 2009 to 2017. It used a holistic multiple-case study design, primary sources of data, and document analysis. After ensuring the similarity between the projects, the DB’s bill quantities for selected pay items were multiplied by the corresponding nearby and similar DBB’s bill item-unit rates. The first, second, third, and fourth case analysis shows that DB projects exhibit a higher cost-per-kilometer and they are found to be 12.7%, 17.1%, 11.6%, and 13.5% costly than DBB projects respectively. Therefore, DB PDS can increase the project cost on average by 13.7% than the DBB PDS. This is also expected from the theoretical justification that, due to the lack of detailed information, the design-builder can be argued to include higher markup for possible risks. As a result, unless the project has a high state of urgency, the DBB PDS is the better option than DB PDS from a static cost performance perspective for the ERA context. Keywords: Comparative Cost Analysis, Design-bid-build, Design-build, Road Project Costs, ERA, Case Study Page iv Muluken Shibru, EiABC-AAU, M.Sc. in Construction Manag
The Practice of Building Demolition in Addis Ababa City: Current Practice Assessment and Regulatory Framework Development
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06-01) Tirufat Mekuria; Denamo Addissie (PhD)
The Addis Ababa city Administration has been demolishing old buildings and clearing up slum areas for urban renewal purpose for quite some time now. This is being carried out either as part of a government development plan or due to strong interest of foreign investors to participate in the housing and hospitality sector. In addition, increased value of land invited local private property owners to upgrade existing structures in to more income generating spaces aiming at maximizing benefits. However, the practice is not coping up with the technological advancements in the area; rather it is highly dependent on the experience and skill of individuals involved. The fact that Ethiopia doesn’t have a code of practice for building demolition has paved the way for the practice to be performed in non-structured manner. This research started aiming at achieving three objectives; the first being examining the current practice of building demolition in Addis Ababa city. This was done by using selected cases to detect the loop holes through direct observation and interviewing representatives of parties involved in a building demolition project. Furthermore, an in-depth document analysis was done on existing local protocols; ranging from policies to codes and regulations, that can serve as a starting point to develop the framework. As a result, the gaps were analyzed in five major categories related to stakeholders management, planning and methodologies, safety, environment and waste management, productivity and performance recording. The second objective goes on with examining the international trend of the sector through intensive review of literatures so as to derive key performance indicators to evaluate the local practice against later on. For this, it was necessary to benchmark certain countries with best practice, such as Kenya, India, Hong Kong and the Netherlands. Afterwards, standard factors extracted from the study were categorized under generic sections after critical adaptations are made. The third and final objective of this research was to develop a guiding regulatory framework aiming to serve as a milestone point for the regulatory authority. The developed framework describes the main actors of the building demolition ecosystem and states the major responsibility of each entity for the success of the cycle. Finally, it concludes by summarizing the findings of the research in such a way that the practice lacks proper emphasis from the regulatory body in terms of standardizing work items like contracts and safety protocol strictly to follow while performing the act. In addition, qualification of professional is another area which needs big work in order to rescue the system being reliant on personal skill. As far as the recommendation points are concerned, the study suggests for the upper regulatory body to draft a standard code of practice so as to set the minimum requirement of professionals and the other stakeholders. In addition, it was also recommended that regulatory body to have a distinct organ dedicated to keeping the performance record of the sector in order to make future plans and structure demolition acts in more coordinated manner. At last, studies related to waste management and recycling, pattern against city expansion and application of prefabricated elements vs demolition are suggested for further research. Key Words: Building demolition, Construction Industry, Building, Code of practice, Regulatory framework
Rule-Based Expert System For Project Delay Management: A Case Of Wash Water Supply Construction Projects In Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2021-07-01) Eden Halefom; Tilahun Derib (PhD); Tesfaye Hailu (PhD)
In developing countries like Ethiopia, satisfying the access of water supply, sanitation and hygiene to the community is a huge challenge. These challenges are opposed in different sectors by various methods. Among the efforts of United Nations Organization to fulfil l this goal includes, setting international plans such as Millennium Development Goal, Supporting countries in financial, human resource, training and infrastructure. Even with all these efforts, access to water supply and sanitation ratio in sub-Saharan Africa is still at its lower rate. Access to water supply and sanitation in Ethiopia is amongst the lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa and the entire world. The major challenge for water supply and hygiene in Ethiopia is to maintain a year-round and adequate supply to meet people‘s need. The purpose of this research is therefore, to develop rule-based expert system for WASH projects delay management in the case of WASH water supply construction projects in Ethiopia. To achieve the expectations of this system, the methodologies followed in this system were knowledge acquisition using structural interview and workshop as one of primary knowledge source. The required data was gathered from sources such as; first identified the list of causes and effect from the different documents and also through workshop with the group of construction management masters students of Addis Ababa university and also finds the delay causes and effects of 15 towns water supply and sanitation project from their technical audit report arranging in the rule-based form or ―if…then‖ form and in the next phase structured interview was employed with selected experts and come with list of probable solutions and causes of delay. Finally rules for delay management was formulated by the rule-based expert system. Domain experts were selected by using purposive sampling techniques from the experienced experts from construction sector and academicians. After the development of knowledge-based system, verification and validation tests were eployed. The study certainly answered the problem of the water sector delay problems because it can identify the cause and solution of the delay regarding the experts view and experiences. As a recommendation additional studies are needed for the rule-based expert system to develop in different soft wares. Key words: Delay management, Expert, Rule based expert system, WASH project , Water
A Study of Alternative Wall Making Materials Selection Using AHP Method
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06-01) Behailu Workneh Tolu; Denamo Addissie, (PhD)
Material selection is a complex and delicate task determined by the vast number of building material options. Likewise, multiple factors are often considered by the architect or building designer when evaluating the various categories of building materials. As a result, these sets of factors or variables often present tradeoffs that further complicate the decision-making process. To ease the material-selection process, this study examines the relevant factors or variables needed to develop a systematic and efficient material-selection system. Through the analysis of frequency data and results of the study, it has identified the potential factors that will impact designers’ decisions in their choice of wall making alternative building materials, during the design-decision making process. The application of the criteria for the quantitative evaluation and selection of the best alternative building material, using the analytic hierarchy process model, are discussed. The developed decision support system assist designers to assess their consequences in terms of whether or not a material option is likely to be best chosen over the existing conditions. The study also investigates the existing situations in the application of alternative wall making building materials. It assesses the current materials which are being used as a wall making alternative building materials, the extent of usage and barriers to use these materials. Keywords: decision making process; factors or variables; selection criteria; alternative building materials; selection framework; analytical hierarchy process (AHP)
Developing Built-Asset Maintenance Maturity Rating Model for Public University Buildings in Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06-01) Zewdu Seblework Tafesse; Asregedew Kassa Woldesenbet( PhD)
In Ethiopia, a significant amount of funds is invested in mega projects like dams, highways, railways, airports, power plants, public buildings, etc. These investments are showing unprecedented expansion which, by some estimates, has shown a 9-fold growth of the GDP of the construction sector. However, once these projects, be it mega or otherwise, are completed and ownership is transferred, the post-construction phase of asset management is noticeably neglected, if not ignored totally. And this national reality is witnessed in the building facilities of public universities in the country. In this research paper, a modest attempt is made to examine the building maintenance practice of the nation, factors affecting proper maintenance management, and challenges faced. A thorough investigation of the current situation of building facilities of public universities in Addis Ababa is made. Along with that significant focus is made to develop a viable maturity rating model for building maintenance management of public universities in Ethiopia. A multi-case study was conducted on the three public universities in Addis Ababa. The research approach of this study is both deductive and inductive research. Both quantitative and qualitative data are collected from primary and secondary data sources by document analysis, observation, and semi-structured interviews of the FM office and project office representatives of each public university. All the semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and observation data were analyzed using the thematic and statistical analysis method. The three main objectives of this study are effectively addressed. When it comes to identifying factors that influence the proper practice of building maintenance management in public universities in Ethiopia, the main factors were grouped under seven categories and five critical factors. Finally, a built asset maturity rating model is proposed based on the weights calculated by DEMATEL, MCDM analysis weights that can be used as a self-assessment tool by public universities in Ethiopia. Keywords: Facility Management, Built Asset, Maintenance, Maturity Rating Model, DEMATEL

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