Drivers of value management in the Nigerian construction industry

Purpose The paper aims to determine the possible drivers of value management (VM) in the construction industry with a view of providing better-quality construction and achieving value for money through its usage. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts a survey design, and construction professionals from various strata in the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria are assessed using a convenience sample through the use of a structured questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, mean score and one-sample t-test are used for analysing the data gathered. Findings Result revealed that although knowledge regarding VM practices is high, its adoption in the industry is average and the involvement of construction professionals in VM workshops is low. Government involvement through the introduction of VM policy, client commitment and proper understanding of VM methodology aid the adoption of VM practices. Practical implications This research was conducted across six geopolitical zones of the country as against common practice of selecting a particular region or state to represent the entire country. The findings therefore show a true reflection of the VM drivers in the country. Its recommendations can, to a large extent, increase the use of VM in the country and also other developing countries where construction projects are executed through a similar method, style and approach. Originality/value This paper highlights the possible ways of increasing the use of VM in the construction industry with a view to achieve better-quality construction and value for money.