A conceptual model for overcoming the challenges of mega construction projects in developing countries

Ayman Othman

African Journal of Engineering Research
Published: December 2 2014
Volume 2, Issue 4
Pages 73-84

Abstract

The development of Mega Construction Projects (MCPs) in developing countries is a two-edged dilemma. On the one hand, MCPs require high design knowl¬edge and technical skills, competent human resources and managerial capa¬bilities as well as high cost investment. On the other hand, developing countries have shortage in many of these requirements, which obstructs the development of MCPs. This paper aims to develop a conceptual model to overcome the challenges of MCPs development in developing countries. To achieve the aforementioned aim, theoretical and practical approaches were adopted to accomplish three objectives. Firstly, literature review examined the characteristics of developing coun¬tries, MCPs and challenges of delivering MCPs in developing countries; secondly, presenting an innovative model, developed by the author, to overcome the challenges of delivering MCPs in developing countries; and finally, summarising research conclusions and recommendations necessary to facilitate the development of MCPs in developing countries. MCPs are essential means for achieving sustainable development objectives in developing countries. However, lack of knowledge, experience and skills needed to develop such projects has hindered the development of MCPs in developing countries. This topic is new to construction literature; hence, many areas of megaprojects management remain largely uncharted such as challenges and solutions of their delivery in developing countries. This study focuses on developing a conceptual model to overcome the challenges of MCPs in developing countries especially with low to lower middle income and low to medium human development. This is because these countries are in dire need for MCPs. Through adopting and implementing the strategies and action plan of the developed model, the research presents a practical solution to improve the capacity of developing countries towards overcoming the challenges of MCPs development. This paper presents an innovative conceptual model to improve the capacity of developing countries as an approach for overcoming the challenges of MCPs development. This ideology is a new area of research in construction management. The developed model represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value to the knowledge in a manner that has not previously occurred.

Keywords: Model, challenges, mega construction projects, sustainable development, developing countries.

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