Ontology-based investigation of construction delay analysis methodologies in Egypt

Delays in construction projects are more commonplace than most of us wish. The intensified market competition is driving all to accept tighter schedules, shrinking budgets and slimmer contingency allowances. Such pressures give rise to claims, disputes, and litigation in courts. Understanding how to utilize Critical Path Method (CPM) Delay Analysis Methodologies (DAMs) is inevitable to resolving these problematic project situations. This study was initiated to investigate the level of awareness, frequency of usage, information needs, complexity of application, and success rate of each CPM DAM used in the Egyptian construction market where authors work or had previously worked. Research was conducted through a triangulation approach for data collection that employed a Quantitative Questionnaire and a Qualitative Interview. Distribution of questionnaire followed a thorough analysis of the market structure, size of organizations in the Egyptian construction market, and the required sample size to sufficiently reflect the differences between the targeted groups. Collected data was subsequently analyzed with the aid of SPSS software. An unbiased hypothetical determination of the level of awareness, usage and success rate of each DAM among different groups within the Egyptian construction market shall develop an understanding of the DAMs that should be adopted for a more successful settlement and resolution of disputes.