Analyzing Factors Influencing Cost Overruns in Pakistan’s Residential Construction Sector

Journal of Construction Engineering and Management 

Focus: CPM, scheduling, cost, contracts, delays, risk, productivity
BEST for applied/practical CPM papers

Topic

Empirical Analysis of Cost Escalation Drivers in Residential Projects: Evidence from Pakistan’s Construction Sector.”

Why it fits:

Cost overruns + real case data = perfect ASCE-style paper.

Brief Summary of Assessment Requirements

The assessment required students to conduct an empirical analysis of cost escalation drivers in residential construction projects, focusing specifically on the Pakistani construction sector. Key pointers included: identifying the major factors causing cost overruns, analyzing real project data, applying principles of CPM (Critical Path Method), scheduling, risk assessment, and productivity evaluation. Students were expected to demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical application, integrating evidence from real-world construction projects to substantiate their findings.

Approach Guided by Academic Mentor

The academic mentor structured the assessment process in a step-by-step manner to ensure comprehensive understanding and execution:

1. Scenario Selection & Data Collection:

   • The mentor advised the student to identify residential projects in Pakistan with documented cost overruns.

   • Guidance was provided on selecting relevant variables such as labor, materials, project scope changes, delays, and contract issues.

2. Formulation of Research Objectives & Questions:

   • The student was guided to formulate a clear research question focusing on the drivers of cost escalation.

   • Key objectives included identifying patterns, ranking factors by significance, and analyzing project documentation.

3. Application of CPM and Scheduling Analysis:

   • The mentor demonstrated how to use CPM tools to map project schedules and highlight the impact of delays on cost.

   • Students were encouraged to analyze critical paths and assess how scheduling issues contribute to cost escalation.

4. Data Analysis & Interpretation:

   • Step-by-step instruction on evaluating quantitative data and linking findings to real-world project outcomes.

   • The mentor highlighted the importance of connecting empirical results to practical recommendations for project management.

5. Report Compilation:

   • The student was guided in structuring the report: introduction, methodology, analysis, findings, discussion, and conclusion.

   • Emphasis was placed on clear presentation, referencing best practices, and APA-style formatting.

Final Outcome & Learning Objectives Covered

• Outcome: The student produced a well-structured, evidence-based report analyzing key cost escalation drivers, supported by real project data and CPM analysis.

• Learning Objectives Achieved:

  1. Applied theoretical knowledge of construction management and CPM in a practical context.

  2. Critically analyzed real-world project data to identify cost drivers.

  3. Demonstrated problem-solving skills in interpreting scheduling and risk factors.

  4. Communicated findings effectively through a structured written report.

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