ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN

SUPERVISORS AND WORKERS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES

IN LAGOS, NIGERIA

BY

BAMGBOSE, OLUSAYO AYOBAMI

OND. (Bldg Tech.), HND. (Bldg Tech.)
QSV/12/2208

A THESIS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF QUANTITY SURVEYING

(QSV) SUBMITTED TO SCHOOL OF POSTGRADUATE
STUDIES, IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN CONSTRUCTION
MANAGEMENT OF THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF
TECHNOLOGY, AKURE ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

2015
CERTIFICATION
This work has not been presented elsewhere for the award of a degree, or any other purpose.

CANDIDATE’S NAME: Bamgbose, Olusayo Ayobami

Sign…………………………

Date…………………………

I certify that this work has been carried out by Bamgbose, Olusayo Ayobami in the department

of Quantity Surveying, School of Environmental Technology, Federal University Technology,

Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

SUPERVISOR’S NAME: Dr. J.O. Abiola-Falemu

Sign…………………………

Date…………………………

DEDICATION

ii
 This thesis is dedicated to the memory of my late mother, Mrs C. T. Bamgbose.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

iii
All thanks to God for the strength and enablement bestowed upon me from the beginning of this
programme to the end.

I sincerely appreciate the unflinching contribution, support and motivation given by my

supervisor, in person of Dr. J.O. Abiola-Falemu to supervise the project, his teachings and
guides are immensely appreciated in the course of this work

The body of knowledge put together in this text would have been impossible without the
contribution of the various authors of relevant texts and journals consulted in the preparation of
this thesis. These authors are acknowledge accordingly.

I acknowledge Dr. (Mrs) Adeyonu for the energy and time devoted in guiding me through the
research. Great appreciation to my father, J O Bamgbose for his word of wisdom at all time.

Quatro Architects limited has always been a supportive company from the inception of this
programme to its end, I appreciate every professional in the company.

I am endowed with friends of great intellect and vision. Thank you for being there always. Your
love is immeasurable.

I appreciate Arc. Yinka Adediji for standing by at all time as a father, brother and friend at all
time.

ABSTRACT

Communication is a means by which operatives and other members of the  building

team are linked in order to achieve the central goal. In construction, communication could

iv
be achieved through letters, drawings, symbols, signs, posters and word through which members
of an organization sends and receives information and also sends information to the public at
large
Communication is not effective until it serves the purpose it is being used for. This research
work focused on assessment of effective communication between supervisors and workers on
construction sites, which is the aim of the project. The objectives are to assess the major means
of communication on construction sites, evaluate how frequent the supervisors communicate
with their workers, assess the extent to which workers understand their supervisors and
determine the most suitable communication channels for effective delivery of information on
site. The research is a descriptive study of assessment of communication effectiveness between
supervisors and workers on building construction sites. The research sampled 60 respondents on
building construction sites within Lagos state via snowballing method of population study. The
research established that drawings and construction materials are frequently communicated to
workers. Also, team members are carried along in projects planning along with mutual relation
among team members. In spite of that, the choice of language and form of communication
adopted on construction site determines effectiveness of communication between workers and
supervisors. Major hindrances found to render communication ineffective on site are; lack of
appropriate skills and limited resources on site as well as poor leadership and poor listening
attitude. It is therefore necessary workers are assessed and trained for the job required of them
and provision should also be made for retraining of workers, every needed material to execute
tasks on site should be provided and it is the responsibility of both supervisors and workers to
possess good leadership and followership characters respectively; with a good listening attitude.
In addition, apt channel of communication should be adopted on site and supervisors can make
use of feedback approach to ascertain workers understand what is being communicated to them;
ditto for workers to supervisors.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

v
Contents page no

Titlepage i
Certification ii
Dedication iii
Acknowledgements iv
Abstract v
Table of contents vi-vii
List of tables viii
List of figures viii

1.0 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION 1-5

1.1 Background to the Study 1

1.2 Statement of Research Problem 2
1.3 Research Questions 3
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study 3
1.5 Justification for the Study 4
1.6 Scope of the Study 4

2.0 CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW 6-18

2.1 Introduction 6
2.2 Characteristics of communication 9
2.3 Means of Communication 10
2.4 Concept of Communication 6
2.5 Method of Communication 15
2.6 Causes of Poor Communication 17
2.10 Summary of Literature Review 18

3.0 CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 19-22

vi
3.1 Introduction 19
3.2 Research Design 19
3.3 Research Population study 19
3.4 Sample Frame 20
3.5 Sampling Size 20
3.6 Data Collection Instrument 21
3.7 Procedure for Data Collection 21
3.8 Method of Presentation and Analysis 21

4.0 CHAPTER FOUR: ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION OF RESULT 23-32

4.1 Introduction 23
4.2 Characteristics of Respondents 23
4.3 Interpretation of Result 24

5.0 CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 32-33

5.1 Summary of Findings 32

5.2 Conclusion 32
5.2 Recommendations 33
References 34

LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1: Forms of Communication 10

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Table 3.1 Selected Construction Site by Location 20
Table 4.1: Geographical Distribution of Respondents 25
Table 4.2: Distribution of Respondent according to type of company 25
Table 4.3 Distribution of Respondents’ Profession 26
Table 4.4: Level of Education of Respondents 26
Table 4.5: Years of Experience of Respondents 27
Table 4.6: General opinion of respondents about effective communication on site 27
Table 4.7: General Overview of communication on construction site 29
Table 4.8: Communication Barriers on Construction Projects 30
Table 4.9: Communication Channels on Construction site. 31

APPENDIX 1: QUESTIONNAIRE

viii
 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Communication is essentially the interpersonal process of sending and receiving messages. The

key component process includes the sender who encodes and sends (transmits) the message, and

the receiver who decodes and interprets the message. The receiver then feeds back a response to

the sender and closes the loop. The communication model focuses on each element of the

process to identify what should happen and prevent misunderstanding (Burke, 2003).

Communication is a means by which operatives and other members of the  building

team are linked (considering construction) in order to achieve the central goal

(Oresegun, 2010).

Communication is one of those subjects that is hard to separate from what we do naturally every

day. For a project to succeed there is a continuous need for communication to issue instructions,

solve problems, make decisions, resolve conflicts and keep everyone supplied with the

information needed (Burke, 2003).

When communication gaps arise between workers and supervisors on construction sites, the

results are often confusion, unclear motives, misaligned priorities and indecisive actions. Such

communication gaps could be technological in nature, requiring an upgrade of the office

computer equipment. Other times, gaps emerge because of personal problems originating from

personality differences (Hearst Newspaper, 2015).

Effective communication helps us understand a person or situation and enables us to resolve

differences, build trust and respect, and create environments where creative ideas, problem
solving, affection, and caring can flourish. As simple as communication seems, much of what we

try to communicate to others—and what others try to communicate to us—gets misunderstood,

which can cause conflict and frustration in personal and professional relationships.

Communication can only be effective when both parties are able to comprehend each other, lest

communication is not achieved.

Many at times conflicts occur on site due to poor or no communication between construction

workers and supervisors, which most time result in project delay, wastage of both time and

resources.

1.2 Statement of Research problem

Most of the errors and conflicts on site are caused by ineffective communication among the

workers on site including their site managers. It is important that communication is seen as a key

element if construction projects must have a safe landing. Even in some occasion,

communication is not done at all as this happen when the workers fail to understand what the site

manager or supervisor is talking about, which most time lead to wrong jobs being done on site.

Many problems concerning communication have been reported, with a focus on intra-supplier

communication within the construction sector; demand-supply communication during the design

phase; and communication between and within single demand and supply side parties, during

whole the construction process. In this division the demand side contains (representatives of)

principals, users, investors, etc. and the supply side architects, (sub) contractors, advisors, etc

(Hoezen, Reymen & Dewulf, 2010).

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1.3 Research questions

The research questions to be considered in this project are:

1. What are the major means of communication employed on construction sites by site?

2. How frequent do the supervisors communicate effectively with their workers on site?

3. Do the workers easily understand the information their supervisors send to them?

4. What are the most useful communication channels for effective delivery of information

on construction site?

1.4 Aim and objectives

The aim of this study is to assess the level effectiveness of communication between

supervisors and workers on construction sites.

The objectives are to:-

1. Assess the major means of communication on construction sites.

2. Evaluate how frequent the supervisors communicate with their workers.

3. Assess the extent to which workers understand their supervisors.

4. Determine the most useful communication channels for effective delivery of information

on site?

1.5 Justification of the study

The construction industry is one of the most information dependent industries and heavily based

upon traditional means of communication such as face to face meetings, phone calls and the

exchange of drawings and associated paperwork or documents. Communication can therefore be

seen as the key factor in the overall success of any construction project. Crucial to the running of

3
any construction project is the movement and transfer of project information amongst the distinct

professions all of whom have conflicting priorities and differing objectives (Wikforss, 2006).

While some specialists will be able to visualize aspects of the building with a high degree of

accuracy, possibly with little information, other aspects of the building will hold little relevance

unless the information is conveyed in a way which allows them to develop an understanding

(mental model). Hence, communication is extremely relevant in the management of projects.

Lack of communication between supervisors and their team will definitely lead to poorly done

job, conflict, time and resource wastage as well as loss of integrity of the contractor due to his

inability to manage his site properly (Mamee, 2012).

However, a good number of construction professionals are oblivious of the importance of as an

unavoidable tool to achieving their set goals on construction site. Therefore, findings of this

research will make these communication challenges on site available for future construction site

management as well as project implementation.

1.6 Scope and limitation of the study

The scope of this research work is to assess the effectiveness of communication between

supervisors and workers on various building construction sites in Nigeria, with its objectives

in identifying various means of communication on construction sites and as well studying the

effectiveness of each method of communication as being used between supervisors and their

workers on construction sites. The supervisors being considered are the ones within

construction of building elements and the workers being referred to, are artisans working

under them.

4
Although there are various construction activities existing in the selected location (Lagos) but

this research work shall be limited to building construction sites in Lagos state as it is known

to be the one of the locations housing lots of construction activities.

5
 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

Communication is a means by which operatives and other members of the  building

team are linked in order to achieve the central goal. In construction, communication could

be achieved through letters, drawings, symbols, signs, posters and word through which member

of an organization sends and receives information and also sends information to the public at

large. Communication in the large sense of it, is used to express facts, ideas, opinion and

emotions between two or more people and through communication exchange of thought,

information is also a good tool for human relation (Oresegun, 2010).

Also, communication usually involves the transfer of information, a generic term that embraces

meaning such as knowledge, processed data, skills and technology. Communication within

project-based environments presents special challenges, which is especially true within

the construction industry, where interaction tends to be characterized by unfamiliar groups of

people coming together for short periods before disbanding to work on other endeavor.

Communication is essential to all business activities; it is also an integral part of

the construction process. Beyond the argument, any improvement in communication can

improve an organization’s operating effectiveness. Good communication within an organization

and between organizations contributing to the construction project can improve motivation levels

and improve the processes. Conversely, inadequate communication can result in

a demotivated workforce and lead to problems especially on construction sites.

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Construction projects are complex and risky, requiring the active participation of all

contributors. Co-operation and co-ordination of activities through interpersonal and group

communication are essential in ensuring the project is completed successfully. Poor

communication, lack of consultation and inadequate feedback can be found to be the root cause

of defects in many constructed works. Poor co-ordination and communication of design

information lead to design problems that cause design errors. Communication is the one aspect

of the management of projects that pervades all others.

The efficiency and effectiveness of the construction process strongly depend on the quality of

communication. The following four reasons were mentioned why improvements in

communication are needed. The first reason is that an improvement in the communication within

the building team, in project teams and between project manager and contractors, could reduce

failure. Second, more open communication at all levels could lead to innovations and better

technical solutions. Third, communication improvements in early phases of projects would

positively influence the quality as perceived by all stakeholders involved. Finally, improved

communication during the briefing might lead to better decision making.

Given that construction is such a fragmented, dynamic and disparate sector, the challenges of

communicating effectively are greater than in most other production environments. Contractually

driven relationships, conflict and a lack of mutual respect and trust, all combine to hinder open

communication and render the role of the project manager extremely demanding and

problematic. Nevertheless, addressing communication in the industry can be seen as a principal

enabler for improving the industry in the future (Matthew, 2014).

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Considering the above definition of communication, it is observed that everybody in an

organization is responsible for communication irrespective of the role of the person being the

originator or the receiver of the information. In all aspects of human professions,

communication is seen as a vital central organ especially through the use of language. Human

have transferred culture, record history and document occurrences to a good deal with the use of

language from one generation to another. The organ called communication has helped man

to build societies and other social groups which has contributed immensely to the growth

of man’s life.

Effective communication facilitates the workers especially in construction firms to

work together for higher productivity. When instructions and orders are given by

the leaders to the subordinate, they are carried out as expected once they are well

understood. The working day of every personnel is filled with communication in

different ways and forms through orders, directives, information, conversation,

requests and rumours (Oresegun, 2010).

All construction project execution requires communication between professionals in all the

various stages of construction. These professionals transfer appropriate and relevant information

to develop a buildable design that meets the client’s requirements. As the project unfolds and the

design is realized, information in the form of drawings, specifications and construction methods

must be communicated from one expert to another (Tipili et al 2014).

8
Whether during design or during construction, communication is most effective when the four Cs

are covered: clear, concise, complete, and correct.  Each one should be considered if you are

writing a letter, preparing an email, talking on the phone, or preparing a set of construction

documents.  Failure to do so can result in the message being misunderstood, either partially or

completely.  How well you communicate has an impact on how you are perceived by others. 

Thus, a poor communicator will either have their messages questioned or ignored completely.

The process of constructing a structure involves teamwork.  Like teamwork on the sports playing

field, communication is essential to integrate all players to achieve a win.  The motivation of

team players to have a successful outcome improves communication and further enhances

teamwork.  Thus, a good attitude is important to successful communication.

According to the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI), teamwork communication relies on

timeliness of communication.  Delay in transmitting essential information can lead to

misunderstandings and eventual escalation of problems.  To avoid these problems, identifying

the lines of communication before a project begins is a good practice.  This can be best

accomplished at the preconstruction meeting and re-emphasized, if necessary, at the periodic

progress meetings.

Construction communication channels are dependent somewhat on the delivery method used for

the project.  Those delivery methods that have similar communication channels are:

Design-Bid-Build, Construction Management as Constructor and Design-Negotiate-Build.

Although the above delivery methods incorporate different means of selecting the contractor,

each utilizes the traditional tripartite relationship of owner, architect, and contractor.

9
On the other hand, delivery methods that do not utilize the tripartite relationship have very

different channels of communication.  These delivery methods include the following: Design-

Build, Construction Management as Advisor, Owner-Build.

Regardless of which delivery method is employed on a project, the content that is communicated

and the method by which it is communicated between all parties involved remains the same, only

the channels through which content is transmitted differ (RLGA 2013).

The ability to communicate well, both verbally and in writing is the foundation of effective

leadership. Through communication, team members share information and exchange ideas and

influence attitudes, behavior and understanding. Communication enables the site supervisors to

develop interpersonal relationships; inspire members, handle conflict, negotiation with

stakeholders, chair meetings and make presentation (Burke, 2003).

Communication and leadership go hand in hand. Communication is not only talking to the

troops, and telling them what you expect of them - it goes much deeper. Successful project

management communication is about being there for everyone, being in touch with the real

challenges of the project, understanding the real issues within the team who must deliver the

project as well as understanding the issues of the sponsors whom the team delivers the project

for. 

Being present, visible and engaged with everyone is important - during the good times and the

challenging times. Communication is not only about speaking to and hearing from people, it's

about understanding the complete message.

What language to use, how to convey the message with respect to tone, feeling and body

language. Body language, another immense subject not to be covered in depth here; only that so

10
 often the words spoken conflict totally with the body language adopted to deliver them – the

result, which is a confused message and misunderstanding of the real issues.

So a successful project manager can only maximize the effectiveness of communication within

the team by being prepared to lead by example. A big part of this leadership is to be present, and

be prepared to communicate with all at their respective levels. (Holland and Enterprises, 2010)

2.2 Characteristics of communication

Some of the characteristics of communication according to Mehra are as follows;

i. Communication is a process – it is continuous, ongoing and dynamic. Communication

becomes only effective if there is a continuous flow from the sender to the receiver and

response from the receiver back to the sender of the code.

ii. Communication requires a sender and a receiver: without a sender and a receiver,

communication cannot take place

iii. Communication has information (message/content): this is most important part of

communication.

iv. Communication requires a medium (symbols, signs, behaviour, speech, writing or

signals): the medium is the channel that connect the sender and receiver together to make

it a complete process.

v. Communication requires shared understanding – all parties understanding the same thing

the same way: this also include es familiarity of the parties with the mode of

communication employed.

vi. Communication is transitional and irreversible. ( Mehra, 2009).

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In addition, the essential features of an effective communication system are keys for productive

communication. Characteristics of an effective communication system are as follows can as well

be the clearness and integrity of message to be conveyed, adequate briefing of the recipient,

accurate plan of objectives, reliability and uniformity of the message, main purpose of the

message, proper response or feedback, correct timing, use of proper medium to convey the

message properly, use of informal communication (Communication Technology, 2015).

Characteristics of communication was also stressed further by Saritha in his article submitted to

article library, were he pointed out 6 major characteristics of an effective communication as

thus:

Two or More Persons: The first important characteristic of communication is that there must be

a minimum number of two persons because no single individual can have an exchange of ideas

with himself. A listener is necessary to receive one’s ideas. Therefore, there must be at least two

persons-the sender of information and the receiver.

Exchange of Ideas: Communication cannot be thought of in the absence of exchange of ideas.

In order to complete the process of communication there must be an exchange of ideas, orders,

feelings, etc., among two or more than two persons.

Mutual Understanding: Mutual understanding means that the receiver should receive the

information in the same spirit with which it is being given. In the process of communication, it is

more important to understand the information rather than carry it out.

Direct and Indirect Communication: It is not necessary in communication that the receiver

and giver of information should be face-to-face with each other. Communication can be both

direct and indirect. Direct communication means face-to-face conversation, while indirect

communication is through other means and;

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Continuous Process: Communication is an endless process, as is the case with business where

the manager continuously assigns work to his subordinates, tries to know the progress of the

work and gives directions and;

Use of Words as well as Symbols: There can be many means of communication, like the

written, the oral and symbolic. The examples of symbolic communication are the ringing of bell

for closing a school or a college, saying something by the movement of the neck, showing anger

or disapproval through eyes, giving some decision by the raising of a finger in cricket, etc

(Saritha, 2015).

2.3 Means of Communication

According to construction industry training board, Communication in the workplace is very

important. It is needed so that a group of people can work together safely to complete a

construction project. It is also very important to be able to read and follow written information

and instructions.

Some form of communication commonly adopted on construction site were explained as thus:

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Table 2.1: Forms of Communication

Forms Means Channels

Verbal Speech Two way radio
Industry terms and Telephone/Mobile Phone
vocabulary Abbreviations Voice messaging
Written Written information Work OH&S requirements
instructions Plans Work Company procedures
schedules/trade sequences Emergency procedures
Bulletins Time sheets Notices Induction procedures
Charts Agreements/contracts Regulations Quality
Specifications Orders requirements Maps Industrial
Delivery slips/cart notes agreements Checklists
Workplace policies Text
messaging Material Safety
Data Sheets (MSDS)
Electronic Email Mobile Phone
Fax Laptop
Non – verbal Hand Signals Mime
Gesture Personal presentation and
reactions
Signage Signs Symbols Tags, labels and stickers.
Alarms Emergency Whistle
Lunch Bell
Reversing truck Buzzer

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One of the most important methods of communicating is speech. It is used consistently as

feedback can be instantaneous, it is a very effective and efficient method of communicating. The

following should be considered when speaking:

1. Speak clearly and in a way that can be easily understood

2. Use the correct names of tools and equipment.

3. Pay attention and listen when others are speaking to you

4. Ask questions if you do not understand what you are being told. The construction industry is

unique with its own vocabulary and it therefore is necessary to familiarize oneself with these

terms and use them correctly.

There are so many people involved in the completion of a construction project and they are not

always located in close proximity to each other. Telephone and mobile phones are used for these

people to communicate with each other. It is important to consider the following when

communicating on phone: answer the phone with the name of your business and your name,

speak clearly, speak plainly so that you are easily understood, ask for feedback so you can

determine if instructions have been understood, ask for caller’s name and phone number if you

need to call them back, confirm information in writing if necessary. Two Way Radio Two way

radios are often used by workers directing cranes, workers communicating with truck drivers or

to instruct flag people. When using a two way radio remember: use a call sign when trying to

contact somebody, sign off each time you have finished speaking. The term ‘over’ is often used

to sign off, turn your microphone on when speaking and off when listening, be aware of privacy

issues, There is no privacy when using a two way. Hence successful verbal communication does

not only depend on what is said, the way you present yourself is also important. This is called

15
using interpersonal skills. Interpersonal skills include: personal presentation and image,

appropriate tone of voice, rapport, empathy, appropriate behavior (CITB 2004).

Communication is the sending and receiving of spoken or written messages between people and

places. Letters are the most common means of communication. Other means are telegram,

telephone, telex, fax, e-mail, radio, television, newspapers, etc.

Every city and nearly all the villages of our country have post offices. We can buy postcards,

inland letters, envelopes and stamps from the post office. We can also send parcels and money

through money orders to our friends and relatives. This method of communication costs very

little.

Telephone is the fastest means of communication. Today, we can talk to people in far-off cities

or even in different countries through the STD (Subscriber Trunk Dialing) and ISD (International

Subscriber Dialing). Telephone facilities are available in all cities, towns and most of the villages

these days.

We can also send message by electronic-mail (e-mail) and the internet to any part of the world

on the computers. The internet is a worldwide computer network, by which a user can connect

his computer to another computer in any part of the world. E-mail is a very inexpensive means of

communication.

The letter, telephone and e-mail are personal means of communication i.e. they are used as

means of communication between individuals.

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When we have to communicate with a big group of people, or many people at one time, we have

to use means of mass communication Newspaper, radio or television, etc., are means of mass

communication.

A newspaper has something for everybody. It gives opinions, information and news of interest

from every corner of the world (Jateline, 2010).

2.4 Concept of Communication

Communicating frequently is necessary throughout the life of any project because all projects are

executed by humans and they interact by way of teams.

The best way to communicate in the teams is to involve team members in all activities because

Project manager along with team members are responsible for managing communication on

projects. Communication may be carried out using symbols, signs, behaviour, speech, writing or

signals, as well as through project plans, project scope statement and status reports. (Mehra,

2009).

It was also noted that projects fail when expectations are not aligned with results. Timely and

effective communication can bridge this gap to avoid surprises at the end. Expectations, goals,

and priorities of the project stakeholders should be well documented and communicated to the

stakeholders. Communication consists of transmitting information from one person to another. In

fact, some scholars of communication take this as working definition, and also as a means

circumscribing the field of communication theory. Their definitions are outlined as thus;

Communication is a term used to refer to any dynamic, information hearing-process.

17
Communication is the exchange of information, usually via a common system of symbols.

Communication is the process of conveying information from a sender to a receiver with the use

of a medium in which the communicated information is understood the same way by both sender

and receiver.

With inference from the above definitions, communication can defined as “the process of

exchanging information related to the progress and successful completion of a project through

the sharing of knowledge and experiences for the mutual benefit of the parties involved in

ensuring timely project delivery (Mehra, 2009).

2.5 Methods of Communication

The best communication methods succeed in putting across the right message in a clear,

unambiguous way that gets noticed by the target audience, whilst also saving on time and cost.

Good communicators succeed in choosing the best medium of communication for the particular

purpose in mind.

The most suitable channel of communication should be selected for the right message and right

audience, which is the manner in which the message is sent. Channels of communication include

speaking, writing, video transmission, audio transmission, electronic transmission through

emails, text messages and faxes and even nonverbal communication, such as body language.

A communication strategy should be conceived at the project planning stages, so key is its

influence on the success of the project. You could consider communication methods to be

either active or passive. Active communication methods being those used to communicate can be

considered, for example the use of face to face meetings, video conference, meeting - one on one,

18
or group; telephone conference, or voice only web conference, webinars, becoming increasingly

popular for the delivery of presentation based activities, telephone - old School! Granted but still

better than not speaking to someone; stand-up presentations in person.

Passive communication methods would be those, which recipients can adopt in their own time,

for example - Pod cast, Web cast, Email, Intranet bulletin boards, Blogs, Website, Project

Newsletter - paper based, Table top presentation Holland and Enterprises (2010).

2.6 Structure of Communication in Construct Industry.

It is worthy of note that not all participant in a construct project has a contractual relationship

with each other but it is important they communicate effectively so as to have the project

successful.

Structure defines the line of authority and communication specifies the mechanism by which

tasks and programs are accomplished. The performance depends on the coordination between the

parties involved, the system of communication, the culture of the project, the staff members and

the communication structure.

Intercultural communication is far more complicated because participants n e e d to be

cognizant of an increased p o s s i b i l i t y of misunderstanding. Project team m e m b e r s are

part o f different sub-cultures. In a project team, there may be c o m m u n i c a t i o n problems

because of these differences a n d expressions in different professions.

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People, systems, cultures and s t r u c t u r e s may b e used as communication strategies to

ensure the performance of t h e p r o j e c t . Every sub-project has a set of people, systems and

culture different to those of t h e m a i n project. These differences strain the project, increase

communication problems and make it less likely to c o m p l e t e a pr oj ec t without incidents.

People i n the organization use the proper system implemented by the organization to

communicate effectively, whether internally or externally. This proper system also helps in

improving communication within the organization. It plays a vital role among the stakeholders

because i t results in good understanding within the organization and among the different

parties (Peruma, Abu, 2011).

2.7 Causes of Poor Communication

Poor communication on construction site can lead to poor relations among the workers on site;

especially between the supervisors and workers under them. It can also breed unfriendly

atmosphere which in turn renders workers inefficiently effective.

The following causes of poor communication were identified in Hearst Newspaper, Texas:

1. Unclear Goal: - When a worker is selected to fill a position, the individual is expected to be

taken through the job description face to face. People have different ways of interpreting a

job posting. If the company does not communicate its expectations, the new employee gets

confused and ends up underperforming. Unclear goals lead to poor communication and

frustration.

2. Cultural Diversity: The world is turning into more of a global village. It is common to find

people from different backgrounds and locations converging in the same workplace. This

diversity, encouraged in businesses, still can prove a cause of poor communication. Different

20
 cultures have their own way of interpreting things, especially with nonverbal language. If the

company does not bridge the differences, there is a danger that misunderstandings will arise.

3. Poor Leadership: Employees look to their leaders to provide direction in the workplace. If the

people at the helm have poor leadership skills, the chances of having poor communication

are high. Incompetent leaders exhibit indecisiveness and fail to inspire confidence in their

subordinates or over-exert control and pass on poor communication to their employees. They

may also be unable to answer queries raised by the employees, leaving subordinates in the

dark over what to do.

4. Personal Issues: Though you encourage employees not to let personal matters interfere with

their work, there are times when it is hard to divorce a person from situations the individual

may be facing outside of work. A distracted employee is irritable and may wrongfully

communicate disrespect and lack of interest in the job. Give distracted employees some time

off, where necessary and possible, to allow them deal with a personal matter.

5. Demoralization: Demoralized employees lose interest in the company. They may be present

at their workstation but only do the expected and nothing more. Employees gets demoralized

when they are unappreciated, disrespected or not given a chance to use their creativity and

skills at work. Such employees do not communicate anything extra other than what is

necessary, leading to weak lines of communication. When you respect employees, they are

more creative, productive and alert (Diana, 2015).

2.7. Summary of Literature Review

Various authors have defined communication, its important, types and methods adopted by

workers in carrying our various construction activities on site.

21
Therefore it is necessary to prove further by assessing the effectiveness of communication on

sites between supervisors and workers in achieving the set objectives of the construction

projects.

CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

This chapter defines the entire method adopted in this research work. It described

the procedure followed in actualizing the objectives of this project, which involved

adequate description of the research and stressing on the inclusiveness of the chosen

area of this study, the research tools and sampling techniques necessitating the

administration of questionnaires and oral interview.

Other discussions centered on study design which described the major procedure

followed in carrying out the project, the method of data collection and finally, the

analysis of data indicating the statistical tool used and suitability of such tools.

3.2 Research design

This is a descriptive study in order to obtain views from site supervisors and artisans working on

various construction projects in Lagos state.

3.3 Research population study

There are hundreds of registered building contractors in Lagos according to Lagos

State Tender Board record of contractors. 60 percent of the contractor reside in

22
 Lagos mainland while the remaining 40 percent have their offices in Lagos Islands.

However, Lagos Islands (Lagos island , Victoia Island, Lekki/Epe) has the larger part of the

construction projects going on in the state.

It is therefore expected that a standard construction site will have a Site Manager, Supervisors for

each department and workers working under them. But due to lack of record of construction

activities in Lagos state, a snowballing approach was used to select construction sites needed for

this work.

Snowballing sampling is a form of non-probability sampling in which the researcher begins by

identifying an individual perceived to be an appropriate respondent. This respondent is then

asked to identify another potential respondent. The process is repeated until the researcher has

collected sufficient data. It is also called ‘chain letter’ sampling. Snowball sampling can be a

useful technique in research concerned with behaviour that is socially unacceptable or involves

criminal activity. The nature of such activities may make it a virtually impossible task to identify

all members of the research population; even identifying a few members (Paul, O. 2013).

3.4 Sampling Frame

The research work has no sample frame because there is no record of active construction sites in

Lagos as at the period of this research work

3.5 Sample Size

The study size are considered based on major geographical distribution of construction areas as

thus: Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Barrier Island and sand pits such as Victoria Island, Lekki

and Ajar; and Lagos suburb such as Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe. Though there is no readily

23
available data to show the number of construction sites in Lagos and their geographical

distribution but Lagos mainland and Barrier Islands (Victoria Island, Lekki and Ajar) house the

larger percentage of construction activities in Lagos state.

Therefore, the construction sites were selected via snowballing sampling as thus:

Table 3.1: Selected Construction by location

Location No
Lagos Island 5
Lagos Mainland 10
Barrier Island (Victoria Island, Lekki and 10
Ajar)
Lagos Suburb 5
Total 30
Figure

The questionnaires were distributed to the following - Site supervisors, Site Engineer and

Artisans working under them. Two respondents were considered on each site as thus: a site

supervisor or Engineer and an Artisan.

3.6 Data Collection Instrument

Questionnaire was largely adopted in gathering useful information needed for this study.

3.7 Procedure for Data Collection

Necessary information needed for this study was gathered through the use of a structured

questionnaire. In order to obtain appropriate and adequate responses from the

respondents, a combination of fixed responses and open-end questions were adopted

in such a way that the options of the respondents were required on the subject of the

study.

24
3.8 Method and presentation of analysis

SPSS and STATA packages were employed in the analysis of the collected data.

Objective 1 and 4 were captured and analyzed with the use of frequency. Objective 2 and 3 were

captured with mean item score.

25
 CHAPTER FOUR

ANALYSIS AND PRESENTATION OF RESULT

4.1 Introduction

The Data for this research was collected from geographical distribution of Lagos state as thus,

Lagos mainland, Lagos Island, Barrier Island and Lagos Suburbs. There is a larger concentration

of construction activities going on at Lagos barrier island being a contemporary environment;

especially Ikoyi, Lekki and Ajar environment.

Questionnaires were administered to both professionals and artisans on sites so as to gather the

needed information.

4.2 Characteristics of the Respondents

Some of the sites disallowed entry despite all attempt to counsel them. Some of the engineers

and artisans too decided not to fill in the information for reasons known to them. A good number

of the respondents had to be orientated before they could accept the questionnaires and fill in the

needed information accordingly. The aim and objectives of the study was also communicated to

the respondents

26
Table 4.1: Geographical Distribution of respondents

Location Number Number of Percentage

of site Questionnair
e
Lagos Island 5 10 16.67
Lagos Mainland 10 20 33.33
Barrier Island (Victoria Island, Lekki and 10 20 33.33
Ajar)
Lagos Suburb 5 10 16.67
Total 30 60 100
Source: Field Survey 2015.

The table above presented the geographical distribution of respondents and their location.

None of the questionnaire given out was missing, which gave a total of 60(100%).

1.2 Interpretation of Result

Table 4.2: Distribution of respondents according to type of company

Type of Company Frequency Percentage

Construction 16 26.7
Design and Building 25 41.7
Contracting 10 16.7
Consulting 4 6.7
Project Management 5 8.3
Total 60 100.0
Source: Field survey, 2015.

The results of respondents’ type of company is presented in Table 4.1 above. The result shows

that 16(26.7%) of the respondents worked with construction firms, 25(41.7%) of the respondents

worked with design and build firms, 10(16.7%) of the respondents worked with contracting

27
firms, 10(16.7%) of the respondents worked with consulting firms, and 5(8.3%) of the

respondents worked with Project Management firms.

Table 4.3: Distribution of profession of respondents.

Profession Frequency Percentage

Architect 8 13.3
Builder 7 11.7
Engineer 12 20.0
Quantity Surveyor 3 5.0
Artisan 30 50.0
Total 60 100.0
Source: Field Survey 2015

From the above table, 8(13.3%) of the respondents were architects, 7(11.7%) were builders,

12(20.0%) were Engineers, 3(5.0%) of the respondents were Quantity Surveyors and 30 (50.0%)

were Artisans (Skilled labour).

Table 4.4: Level of Education of respondents

Highest Level of Education of Respondent

Total
Profession Primary school SSCE ND BSc/HND MSc/PhD
leaving
Certificate
Architect 0 0 0 5 3 8
Builder 0 0 1 6 0 7
Engineer 0 0 0 9 3 12
Quantity Surveyor 0 0 0 3 0 3
Artisan 8 15 7 0 0 30
Total 8 15 8 23 6 60
Source: Field Survey 2015

Most of the Professionals (Architects, Builders, Engineers and Quantity Surveyors) from the

respondents has BSc/HND as their highest level of education as it is seen from the above table.

28
Many of the Artisans (15) are senior secondary school certificate holders as shown from the

above table.

Table 4.5 Years of Experience of Respondents.

Frequency Percentage

Less than 5 11 18.3

5 - 10 years 21 35.0
11 - 15 years 18 30.0
16 years and above 10 16.7
Total 60 100.0
Source: Field Survey 2015

From the table above, 11(18.3%) of the respondents have experience less than 5 years.

21(35.0%) of the respondents have experience between 5 and 10 years. 18(30.0%) have

experience between 11 and 15 years. 10(16.7%) have experience of 16 years and above in their

field of work.

Table 4.6: General opinion of respondents about effective communication on site

S/N DESCRIPTION YES NO

1 Site meeting is an important channel of communication 46(76.7%) 14(23.3%)
between consultant and contractor on site
2 Do you always carry out on-site communication for 44(73.3%) 16(26.7%)
your workers
3 Poor communication result to delay, cost increase and 55(91.7%) 5(8.3%)
abandonment of projects
4 Inexperience interpretation of working drawings causes 53(88.3%) 7(11.7%)
failure in Building Components
5 Poor means of Communication leads to Distorted 46(76.7%) 14(23.3%)
information on site
6 Language used among workers aids effective 44(73.3%) 16(26.7%)
communication on site
Source: Field Survey 2015
Majority of the respondents, 46(76.7%) have it that site meeting is an important channel of

communication between consultants and contractors just as Tipili (2014) said that all

construction project execution requires communication between professionals in all various

29
stages of construction which makes site meeting a necessity. The respondent, 44(73.3%) agreed

they always carry out on-site meeting with their workers on sites, while 16(26.7%) didn’t

consider it necessary.

A good number of the respondents, 55(91.7%) believed that poor communication result to delay,

increase in construction cost and abandonment of projects, which agrees with Clevenger (1959)

assertion that project fails when expectation are not aligned with results. Also, 53(88.3%) of the

respondents believed that inexperience interpretation of working drawings causes failure in

Building components. 46(76.7%) agreed that poor means of communication leads to distorted

information on construction site, while 14(23.3%) said poor means of communication has

nothing to do with distorted information on site.

In addition, 44(73.3%) considered language used among workers aids effective communication

on construction sites just as said by talk2mento(2009) that the use of simple and direct language

will enhance communication on site. Few of the respondents 16(26.7%) said the choice of

language used does not make communication to be effective on site.

30
Table 4.7: General Overview of communication on construction site.

SN General overview of 1 2 3 4 5 RANK

communication on construction N N N N N (Mean)
site
5 Drawings and other construction 3 9 12 25 11 4.37 1
materials are communicated
2 Are you always carried along in 1 10 18 25 6 4.07 2
project planning
3 How often do you relate with 1 6 11 24 17 3.85 3
your team towards project
actualization
8 Freedom of expression granted to 3 9 15 21 12 3.47 4
all workers on site
9 Project type and duration are 8 8 11 18 15 3.37 5
communicated to all involved
parties on site
4 Project challenges are discussed 5 4 22 22 7 3.36 6
on site always
6 Supervisor/workers brainstorm on 2 11 22 17 8 3.29 7
project challenges
11 Communication is done on site 8 7 13 22 10 3.29 8
via local language
7 Opinions are allowed to allow for 2 14 16 19 9 3.28 9
better performance
1 How often do you discuss the 2 16 17 16 9 3.20 10
project at hand with your
workers/leader
10 Daily/Weekly performance report 1 13 16 16 4 2.80 11
are presented to all participants on
site
N = Number of Respondents.
1 = Not frequent, 2 = seldomly frequent, 3 = fairly frequent, 4 = frequent, 5 = very frequent
Source: Field Survey 2015

From the result of the analysis indicated in Table 4.7, many of the respondents agreed that

drawings and other construction materials are communicated to them frequently. This agreed

31
with Oresegun, 2010, which opined that communication could be achieved through letters,

drawings, symbols, signs, posters and word through which member of an organization sends and

receives information and also sends information to the public at large.

Construction team members are always carried along in project planning and there is mutual

relation among the team members towards the achievement of set objectives, which supported

Mehra, 2009 that the best way to communicate in the teams is to involve team members in all

activities because Project manager along with team members are responsible for managing

communication on projects

Table 4.8: Communication Barriers on Construction Projects

S Communication Barrier 1 2 3 4 5 Mean RANK

N N N N N N

1 Lack appropriate skills 0 2 1 23 22 4.08 1

3
2 Limited resources 1 5 1 23 20 3.93 2
1
3 Unclear Objectives 1 2 1 28 13 3.83 3
6
4 Poor leadership 2 3 1 25 14 3.77 4
6
5 Poor Listeners 3 5 1 26 10 3.58 5
6
6 Unclear channel of 3 8 1 23 7 3.38 6
communication
9
7 Lack of Trust 2 15 2 10 9 3.15 7
4
8 Ineffective report system 4 14 2 13 4 2.98 8
5
9 Conflicting Cultural 3 15 2 12 2 2.91 9
Values 8

32
 10 Language Difficulties 10 12 2 11 6 2.85 10
1
11 Religious issues 21 24 7 8 0 2.03 11
12 Age Differences 24 20 1 6 0 1.97 12
0
Note: The figure in parenthesis the mean values
N = Number of Respondents,
1 = Not important, 2 = Less important, 3 = Fairly Important, 4 = Important, 5 = Very important
Source: Field Survey 2015

The result of the analysis from table 4.8 showed that the major barrier to effective

communication on construction are lack of appropriate skills and limited resources.

In addition, poor leadership and poor listening attitude were identified as barriers to effectiveness

of communication on site as highlighted by Diana (2015) that unclear goals, cultural diversity,

poor leadership, personal issues, and demoralization are major barriers in communication

effectiveness.

Table 4.9: Communication Channels on construction site

SN Communication Channels YES NO

N (%) N (%)
1 Noticeboard 33(55.0) 27(45.0)
2 Formal communication – email, letter, telephone, fax 50(83.3) 10(16.7)
3 Social Gathering 18(30.0) 42(70.0)
4 Annual report 31(51.7) 29(48.3)
5 Site Review meetings 52(86.7) 8(13.3)
6 Websites/Newsletter 16(26.7) 44(73.3)
7 Team work 51(85.0) 9(15.0)
8 General Meeting 43(71.7) 17(28.3)
9 Face to face discussions 54(90.0) 6(10.0)
10 Public relations 16(26.7) 44(73.3)
N = Number of Respondents
Source: Field Survey 2015

33
The table above showed respondents channel of communication commonly employed on site.

33(55%) make use of notice board, 50(83.3%) of the respondents make use of formal

communication such as email, letter, telephoning, fax, etc, 52(86.7%) also employ site review

meetings and 54(90.0%) of the respondents commonly use these channels as means to

communicate on site with their supervisor or workers on site. The result agrees with

Construction Industry Training Board (2004) statement that communication on construction site

is most effective when speech (site meeting, discussion, telephoning, radio) is used.

Other channels used are general meeting 43(71.7%) and annual report 31(51.7%) to

communicate with members on construction sites.

34
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

The data collected from the respondents can be summarized with the following points:

1. Drawing and other construction materials are frequently communicated to workers on site.

2. Team members are carried along in project planning and there is mutual relation among team

members.

3. The choice of language and form of communication adopted facilitate effective

communication on site.

4. The major barriers to effective communication on site between supervisors and workers were

identified to be lack of appropriate skills and limited resources.

5. Poor leadership and poor listening attitude were also identified as against effective

communication on construction sites among team members.

5.2 CONCLUSION

35
Every stage of project requires the effectiveness of communication if it must be successful.

Communication is a medium of interaction, sharing of opinion, exchange of ideas, knowledge

and skills, establishment of goals and objectives.

It is therefore necessary we understand what communication entails, provision of construction

materials and team work should be established among workers at all time. There is a great need

to pay attention to leadership attitude and ensure workers have the appropriate skills needed to

executive tasks given to them.

In addition, the channel and means of communication to be adopted to each construction site

should be understood by workers on such site in order to make communication effective.

5.3 RECOMMENDATION

1. Workers should be trained properly for the work they are employed for.

2. The supervisors should display good leadership character to achieve effective communication

on site.

3. Needed materials and tools should be provided for the workers on site for effective

performance.

3. The team members also have a responsibility to listen attentively to their supervisors and ask

question when instructions are not clear to them.

4. The supervisor should choose the right channel to communicate with his workers, especially

speaking the language they can easily understand.

5. Supervisors should always use feedback approach to ascertain the workers understand what

they are saying, so also the workers to the supervisors.

36
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Burke, R. (2003). Project Management: Planning and Control Techniques (4th ed.), pp 270, 271.

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communication

Diana, W., (2015). What are the causes of Poor workplace communication. Hearst Newspaper,

Houston Chronicle. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/causes-poor-

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APPENDIX 1

QUESTIONNAIRE

Please tick [ ] appropriately to indicate your response for the questions below.

Section One: Respondents’ Profile

1. What is the name of you firm? …………………………………………………….

2. What type of company do you work with? Construction Design and Building

Contracting Consulting Project management

3. Which of the following describes your discipline?

Architect Builder Quantity Surveyor Engineer Artisan

4. What is the highest level of education you possess?

Pry SSCE ND HND/Bsc Msc/PhD

5. How many years of experience do you have in construction industry?

Less than 5 5-10 years 11 – 15 years 1 16 years and above

6. Have you ever had any form of communication on a project? Yes No

7. If yes, what form did it take? Please specify…………………………………………………

40
Section Two – Questions Relating to Effective Communication on Construction Sites

Below are statements relating to effective communication on construction site. From your

experience, please express your opinion via each statement on effective communication on

construction sites.

8. Site meetings are an important channel of communication between the consultants and

contractor on site? Yes No

9. Do you always carry out on-site communication for your workers? Yes No

10. Poor communication often results into delay, increase in cost, abandonment, amongst other

problems? Yes No

11. Poor and distorted information will affect the level of work done on site? Yes No

12. Inexperience interpretation of working drawings can cause a failure in building components

Yes No

13. Poor means of communication leads to distorted information on site? Yes No

14. The importance of language used among operatives is very essential for effective

communication on site? Yes No

41
15. Late dissemination of information will affect output on site negatively? Yes No

Section Three: (Please tick the approximate cell).

Degree of frequency: 1 – Not frequent, 2 – Seldomly frequent, 3– Fairly frequent,
4 - Frequent, 5 - Very Frequent
SN General overview of communication on construction site 1 2 3 4 5
1 How often do you discuss the project at hand with your
workers/leader
2 Are you always carried along in project planning
3 How often do you relate with your team towards project
actualization
4 Project challenges are discussed on site always
5 Drawings and other construction materials are communicated
6 Supervisor/workers brainstorm on project challenges
7 Opinions are allowed to allow for better performance
8 Freedom of expression granted to all workers on site
9 Project type and duration are communicated to all involved
parties on site
10 Daily/Weekly performance report are presented to all
participants on site
11 Communication is done on site via local language

Section Four: Questions Relating to Communication Barriers Construction Projects

Relative importance: 1 – Not important, 2 – Less important, 3– Fairly Important, 4 –Important,
5 - Very important
SN Communication Barrier 1 2 3 4 5
1 Poor leadership
2 Poor Listeners
3 Unclear Objectives
4 Conflicting Cultural Values
5 Unclear channel of communication
6 Ineffective report system

42
 7 Limited resources
8 Lack appropriate skills
9 Lack of Trust
10 Religious issues
11 Language Difficulties
12 Age Differences

Section Five - Questions Relating To Communication Channels

in Nigeria Construction Projects

SN Communication Channels YES NO

1 Noticeboard
2 Formal communication – email, letter, telephone, fax
3 Social Gathering
4 Annual report
5 Site Review meetings
6 Websites/Newsletter
7 Team work
8 General Meeting
9 Face to face discussions
10 Public relations

43