Assessing innovative tools and techniques for managing knowledge in construction firms in Nigeria

Abstract

risks and require the input of several stakeholders. Therefore, there is a need to help organisations identify, assess, and manage these risks, reducing the likelihood of project delays, cost overruns, and other problems faced in the industry through effective Knowledge Management (KM). Previous studies on knowledge management and its practices in construction firms have dealt extensively with identifying these practices, how KM practices are carried out, and their importance to better construction performance and service. However, these studies have yet to recognise and discuss the innovative ways knowledge is managed. The practices of knowledge creation, acquisition, transfer, storage and use have seen recent developments in how they are being carried out, and this is primarily a result of the application of Information Technology (IT) to construction. The study sought to assess the innovations in KM practice in construction firms in Lagos state, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to assess innovative KM practices carried out by construction firms and examine the innovative tools and techniques for managing knowledge in construction firms. A quantitative research method was used in this study. The targeted population was construction professionals in construction firms. Data collection was through a structured questionnaire administered to the targeted population, and a response rate of 62% was achieved. The data was analysed using statistical tools. The study revealed that knowledge management is particularly important to the construction industry, and there is a need to improve and invest in knowledge management practices through adopting Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve project delivery and performance. The study recommended that construction firms be open to learning and adopting innovative ideas, tools and techniques to ensure that knowledge is properly managed.