CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

The background of the study on the effect of employees’ training on projects performance in construction firms can be traced back to the recognition of the importance of human capital in driving productivity and competitiveness in the construction industry. Construction firms operate in a dynamic and complex environment, characterized by rapid technological advancements, changing regulations, and increasing demands for quality, safety, and sustainability. In this context, employees’ training and development have become crucial for enhancing the knowledge, skills, and competencies of the workforce, which in turn contributes to improved project performance (Ballesteros et al., 2017; Rowlinson and Cheung, 2008).

Empirical research has provided evidence on the positive relationship between employees’ training and project performance in construction firms. Studies have shown that training programs can enhance employees’ technical and managerial capabilities, improve their problem-solving and decision-making abilities, and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation (Chen and Chang, 2013; Pfeffer and Sutton, 2006). Furthermore, training interventions can enhance team collaboration, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are critical for managing complex projects and achieving project objectives (Turner et al., 2011; Edum-Fotwe and McCaffer, 2000).

However, the effectiveness of employees’ training on project performance may vary depending on various factors, such as the type and quality of training programs, the level of employee engagement and motivation, and the support and resources provided by the organization. Moreover, there is a need for more research to explore the long-term impacts of training on project performance, and to identify the mechanisms through which training interventions contribute to project success (Jia et al., 2018; Tahir et al., 2014). Overall, understanding the effect of employees’ training on project performance is crucial for construction firms to enhance their competitiveness, innovation, and sustainability in the global market.

The background of the study on the effect of employees’ training on projects performance in construction firms with an African perspective can be traced back to the increasing importance of human capital development in the construction industry. In Africa, as in other regions, the construction industry plays a critical role in economic growth and development, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and infrastructure development. However, the industry is also faced with numerous challenges, including project delays, cost overruns, and quality issues, which have been attributed to various factors, including the lack of skilled and trained personnel (Ameyaw et al., 2014).

Given the dynamic and complex nature of construction projects, there is a growing recognition of the need for continuous training and development of employees to enhance their skills, knowledge, and competencies. This is particularly important in Africa, where the construction industry is rapidly expanding, and there is a growing demand for skilled labour to meet the needs of the sector. Research has shown that employees’ training and development can have a positive impact on projects performance, including improved efficiency, productivity, and quality of work (Garavan et al., 2001).

However, despite the potential benefits of training and development, there are challenges to effective implementation in the construction industry, particularly in Africa. These include the lack of resources and infrastructure for training, the high cost of training programs, and the lack of alignment between training and the specific needs of the industry (Awakul and Ogunlana, 2002). Furthermore, there is limited empirical evidence on the impact of employees’ training on projects performance in the African context, which has implications for policy and practice in the region. Therefore, research on this topic is essential for understanding the role of training and development in enhancing projects performance in construction firms in Africa.

The background of the study on the effect of employees’ training on projects performance in construction firms in Cameroon can be traced back to the country’s rapid urbanization and infrastructure development in recent decades. As the construction sector in Cameroon continues to grow, there is a pressing need for skilled and competent labour to meet the demands of complex and large-scale projects. Employees’ training and development have become crucial in enhancing the skills and competencies of workers, improving their productivity, and ultimately contributing to the success of construction projects. In this context, researchers have focused on examining the relationship between employee training and projects performance in construction firms in Cameroon, including the impact of different training programs and methods on the skills, knowledge, and attitudes of construction workers (Ahadzie, Proverbs, & Olomolaiye, 2008).

In the Cameroon perspective, the construction industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development and job creation. The government and industry stakeholders have recognized the importance of human capital development and have invested in various training and capacity-building programs for construction workers. However, there is limited research on the specific impact of employees’ training on projects performance in construction firms in Cameroon. This research topic is important as it seeks to provide insights into the effectiveness of training programs in the construction industry in Cameroon, and to identify the factors that contribute to successful training initiatives. By understanding the relationship between employee training and project performance, construction firms in Cameroon can develop strategies to enhance their workforce capabilities and improve their competitiveness in the industry (Ahadzie et al., 2008).

1.2. Statement Of the Problems

Training is a systematic process to enhance employee’s skill, knowledge and competency, necessary to perform effectively on job. Efficient training methods are often liable to produce prolific performance of employee on projects. But some of the project managers have not yet understood the necessity of implementing adequate and effective training method. The lack of effective training method results to unskilled employees, unorganized working group and intern resulting in poor project performance. Addressing the issue of the lack of effective training methods can help construction firms in Bamenda to be more advanced with employees who can handle projects with confidence.

More so, gaining access to vital information can practically enhance the performance of employees on projects. The construction firms in Bamenda could improve on project performance if inadequate information is share amongst the employee. This lack of circulation of important information lead to project mismanagement, mismanagement of funds and valuable resources. Addressing this problem is paramount to the construction firms in Bamenda.

Skilled technology is an important facet of construction firms, as it eases work flow, facilitates project implementation and completion. But the employees at the construction firms in Bamenda have not yet seen the necessity to invest in skilled technology. This results in common errors, ineffectiveness in project performance and poor outcomes.

1.3. Research Question

In order to achieve the objectives of this research, attempts will be made to answer the following research questions

1.3.1. Main Research Question

What is the effect of employees’ training on projects performance on construction firms in Bamenda?

1.3.2. Specific Research Questions.

1. What is the effect of effective training methods on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda?
2. What is the effect of access to information on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda?

• What is the effect of skilled technology on projects performance on construction firms in Bamenda?

1.4. Objectives of the study.

1.4.1. Main Objective

To investigate the effects of employees training on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda.

1.4.2. Specific Objectives

1. To evaluate the effects of effective training methods on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda
2. To assess the effects of access to information on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda.

• To investigate the effects of skilled technology on projects performance in construction firms in Bamenda.