Evaluation of Labour Efficiency Factors in Building Construction Projects for Concreting Activity Using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the key factors influencing labour efficiency in building construction projects, focusing specifically on concreting activities within the context of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The primary objective is to identify and prioritize these factors so that targeted interventions can improve productivity. A quantitative research approach was adopted, employing structured questionnaires designed with a pairwise comparison matrix and analyzed through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Data were collected from construction industry professionals, including project managers, engineers, and site supervisors. To ensure the validity of results, the primary findings were triangulated with secondary data sourced from industry reports, scholarly articles, and similar urban construction contexts. The results reveal that manpower related factors such as skilled labour availability and supervision are the most significant determinants of productivity, corroborated by secondary data indicating widespread labour skill shortages and management inefficiencies in developing urban environments. Additionally, material quality and management practices emerged as critical components influencing operational efficiency. The triangulation of primary and secondary data confirms these factors' pivotal roles, providing a reliable basis for developing strategic recommendations. The insights gained from this research can guide stakeholders in implementing targeted strategies to improve labour performance, reduce project delays, and optimize resource utilization, thereby contributing to the overall enhancement of construction productivity in the region