An expert analytical approach to reducing construction project delays from ineffective scheduling

The study investigated the effects of ineffective scheduling on the completion of construction projects; identified causes of poor planning and ineffective scheduling of construction projects by industry experts; and provided possible research solutions and industry experts recommendations to solve ineffective scheduling. Using a combination of online surveys, physical questionnaires, and statistical analysis, including the Relative Importance Index (RII), the Reliability Test, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The analysis of factors influencing construction project scheduling reveals a hierarchy of challenges, with "Time Overrun" and "Cost Overrun" emerging as the most significant concerns, obtaining RII values of 0.8892 and 0.8246, respectively. The "Compromise of Project Quality," ranked third with an RII value of 0.8077, highlights the adverse effects of ineffective scheduling, where time constraints and rushed work undermine the quality of construction projects, potentially resulting in costly rework and repairs. Moreover, the research identified the top three recurring causes of ineffective scheduling, including "Poor Decision-Making Regarding Activity Criticality," "Lack of Finance for Project Execution," and "Lack of Expertise in Scheduling." Addressing these core issues is essential for stakeholders seeking to enhance scheduling efficiency and reduce delays. Additional influential elements, such as "Inaccurate Estimate of Materials Requirement," "Insufficient Project Details Available," and "Inadequate Knowledge of Project/Work Activities," also warrant attention in scheduling improvement strategies. These insights illuminate the critical areas requiring attention to enhance project scheduling practices and strengthen the construction industry's reputation. In conclusion, this research provides a comprehensive roadmap for stakeholders, offering practical steps to enhance construction efficiency and mitigate project delays through improved scheduling practices.