Impact of Flexibility on Working Drawing and Specification in the Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

The Nigerian construction industry continues to face significant challenges, particularly in the areas of project delays, cost overruns, and miscommunication among stakeholders. A major contributor to these issues is the prevalence of rigid and often unclear working drawings and specifications, which hinder effective collaboration and limit the flexibility needed to address unforeseen site conditions or design changes. This study investigates how adopting more flexible documentation approaches, supported by advanced digital tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), can enhance project delivery, improve quality outcomes, and strengthen coordination across multidisciplinary teams.
By employing a mixed-method approach—drawing on case studies from construction projects in Lagos and survey data collected from industry professionals—this research provides an in-depth analysis of the root causes of documentation-related inefficiencies. The findings underscore the urgent need for adaptable practices that reflect the complex realities of the Nigerian construction environment, where infrastructural constraints, regulatory gaps, and varying levels of technical capacity often complicate project execution.
In response to these challenges, the study recommends the strategic integration of digital technologies to streamline information flow, the implementation of targeted professional training programs to build competency in modern documentation practices, and stronger regulatory enforcement to ensure compliance with industry standards. Together, these measures aim to foster a more responsive and efficient construction process, ultimately contributing to the timely and successful delivery of projects within Nigeria’s rapidly growing built environment.