A risk and cost management analysis for changes during the construction phase of a project

Abstract

In civil construction projects, changes are inevitable, impacting projects in terms of cost, time and quality. It is nevertheless expected of project managers to effectively manage the impacts of project changes, and to complete the project within the project constraints, despite such changes. This article explores the impact of changes on a project by comparing the findings from a South African case study to the impact of changes found in literature. The article further investigates how consulting engineers in the Western Cape deal with changes in projects, and how cost risk management is performed during changes. The findings are startling and expose the shortage of necessary skills and competencies within project management. A fresh approach is required for project managers to deal effectively with project change.