An Appraisal of Negotiation as a Dispute Resolution Method in Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

Construction industries had contributed immensely to the Nigerian growing economy. However, the industries are faced with the challenge of dispute among their client which causes problems such as delay in construction, cost increase and unsuccessful project implementation in the industry. The productivity of such project management system can be improved only if potential dispute were avoided. This research therefore proposed a potential approach toward an effective disputes resolution experienced in Nigerian construction industries. The study analysed and identified the effects of disputes and the various ways by
which it could be controlled. The study also looks at various types of dispute resolution techniques and the efficiency of negotiation in dispute resolution process. The method of data collection was through the use of structured questionnaires distributed to various construction professionals. The data was analysed using Microsoft excel employing bar charts, pie charts and tables. From the data analysed, majority of the responded (About 84%) concur that negotiation is an effective and beneficial method of settling dispute among Nigerian construction industries. This study provides information sufficient to strengthen the relationship of client with their constructors, thereby boosting the overall performance of construction project in the industries. The study finally established that, negotiation is the most suitable technique in resolving dispute in Nigerian construction industry.