Construction Law

A large number of complex construction projects are due to be finished more than six months late because of poor time management, according to new research.

The study by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) looked at data on more than 2,000 projects and examined the methods used to manage time on projects - in particular the techniques used and the competence of those engaged in the process.

"In the last ten years we have seen massive developments in hardware, software and communications that have made it virtually impossible to efficiently conduct any business without the use of computers and electronic services," said the CIOB's senior vice president, Keith Pickavance.

He pointed out that the construction industry makes intensive use of these systems in almost all areas, apart from in the field of time management, which he said did not make effective use of the technology.

"The growth in training, education and skill levels within the industry in the use of time-management techniques has not kept pace with the technology available," Mr Pickavance said. "This should be of concern to many companies, as there is a trend towards developing contracts which are increasingly punitive if not executed efficiently."

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Nick Bates from law firm Irwin Mitchell said: "With prompt delivery of projects usually a key requirement and the numerous challenges that exist to achieving this aim which are out of their control, construction companies can ill afford failings in controllable areas like time management. This is especially so when the consequence will be substantial damages claims."