Materials Supply Chain Management Practice And Its Effects On Water Supply Construction Projects In Oromia

Abstract

The Aim Of This Research Is To Assess The Practice Of Materials Supply Chain Management Process Of Contractors In Oromia Region Working On Water Supply Construction Projects. Finally To Develop A Framework For The Best Practice Of Material Supply Chain Process Through The Project Phases That Suits The Local Construction Industry In Order To Help Contractors To Have The Right Materials In The Right Quantities At The Right Place, At The Right Moment At Minimal Cost. This Will Assist Contractors To Improve Their Productivity Minimize Losses And Increase Competitiveness. Accordingly, Thirty Eight Questionnaires Were Distributed To The Contractors Of Grade, One, Two, Three And Four. However, Thirty Questionnaires Were Received Back And Analyzed. The Important Result Of This Study Is Developing Material Supply Chain Process Framework. The Framework Consists Of Six Phases Which Are: Bidding Phase, Sourcing Phase, Procurement Phase, Construction Phase, Post Construction Phase And Evaluation Phase. The Study Reveals That Contractor/Supplier Relationship Is Based On Project By Project Basis. Most Of The Contractors Do Not Form Long Term Agreement Or Partnership With The Suppliers. Competitive Pricing Is The Most Important Criteria Adopted For Selection Of The Suppliers And It Is Primarily Based On The Lowest Price. Finally The Problems That May Hamper The Smooth Application Of The Material Supply Chain Process Through Project Phases Were Identified And Possible Solutions For These Problems Were Provided.