Mitigating Risks of Construction Projects Using Contracts in Sudanese Construction Industry

Abstract

This research addresses the problem of risk in the construction industry in Sudan. Most of projects in Sudan are confronted by obstacles which constitute risk events. The primary objectives of projects namely, cost, time and quality are always threatened by eventual changes or variations. To cut down such risk problems the study predicted that some solutions may be achieved through using suitable construction contract conditions. The main issue of this research is how to mitigate risk impacts by contract management techniques. The research problems, objectives and hypothesis were clearly stated. A theoretical frame was established throughout different reliable references in the scope of the research. On the other hand the practical part of the research adopted a questionnaire as a tool for eliciting data from the research population. The population comprised of consultants, contractors and clients. After collecting, analyzing and interpreting the obtained results, a real contrast was found between the hypothesis and the findings. The research discovered and insured most of negative phenomenon that was raised in the problem statement. The existence of problems concerning lack of knowledge in the area of contract conditions was proved. The results reflected the real reasons behind risk impacts. The questions established in the questionnaire strongly addressed the objectives of the research. The problems of delay and variations were proved to be of direct impact on project objectives. They were results of many reasons concerning sponsors of the industry. The study, for having a safer industry and representing good database for decision and policy makers, recommended that:- 1. Giving more attentions for risk management as part of the project management. 2. Increasing of awareness about risks and hazard causing issues by conducting intensive training courses. 3. Establish modern techniques for risk allocation and mitigation.