PROJECT PLANNING PRACTICES ON PERFORMANCE OF URBAN HOUSING PROJECTS IN KENYA

Abstract

This study sought to determine the influence of project planning practices on performance of urban housing projects in Kenya. Specifically, this study sought to determine the influence of Project Design on performance of urban housing projects in Kenya, and to establish the influence of risk management on performance of urban housing projects in Kenya. This study was anchored on theory of Project Management, Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT). The current study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population for the study was 140 (engineers, supervisors and contractors) involved in the implementation of infrastructure projects implemented by Housing finance company of Kenya. The study adopted a census and rules out application of specific sampling technique. The study used a census since the population of 140 is small and the study aimed to reach all the housing infrastructure projects in the study area. The study relied on primary data collected using self-administered structured questionnaires. To ascertain reliability, validity a pilot test was conducted by administering the questionnaires on 14 participants. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0 was used for analysis and presentation. The data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included the mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation and percentages. Pearson Correlation analysis was used to determine the relationship between individual variables in the objectives Multiple Regression analysis was used in testing the research questions by establishing the influence of each independent variable on the dependent variable. The significance of the model was interpreted using a significance level of 0.05. The results was presented on frequency tables, charts, and graphs. The study findings reveal that effective project design, risk management significantly influence the performance of urban housing projects in Kenya. Regression analysis demonstrated positive and statistically significant coefficients for project design (B = 0.188, p = 0.005), risk management (B = 0.380, p < 0.001), in relation to overall project performance. These results underscore the critical role of comprehensive project planning practices in enhancing project outcomes and aligning project objectives with organizational goals and strategies.

Key Words: Project Planning Practices, Project Design, Risk Management, Performance, Urban Housing Projects