Impact of Smart-Lean Construction Methods on the Quality Performance of Building Construction Projects in Kaduna and FCT Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the influence of Smart-Lean construction methods on the quality performance of building projects in Kaduna State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Nigeria. Specifically, it aimed to evaluate how the application of Smart-Lean approaches affects quality outcomes in these locations. The construction sector in both Kaduna State and Abuja continues to face recurring issues of substandard quality in building projects, despite the growing demand for durable and regulation-compliant infrastructure. From a total population of 1,297 registered professionals—comprising Architects, Builders, Quantity Surveyors, and Engineers—a purposive sample of 477 respondents was drawn to represent the study population. The research employed a descriptive survey design, with data collected using a structured questionnaire. Findings indicated that the adoption of Smart-Lean construction methods has a significant positive effect on the quality performance of building projects in Kaduna and FCT Abuja. This improvement is evident in enhanced compliance with standards, reduction in defects and material waste, better efficiency and coordination, timely project delivery, and the encouragement of continuous improvement practices. Based on these findings, the study concludes that Smart-Lean construction methods are instrumental in improving quality performance in building projects within the study areas. It therefore recommends that construction firms should embed Smart-Lean practices into their operations by incorporating digital technologies and lean principles into project planning and execution to strengthen quality compliance, minimise defects, and reduce material waste.