An Empirical Assessment of Delay Factors in Road Maintenance Projects Using PLS-SEM

Abstract

This study empirically examines the determinants of time overrun in road maintenance projects in North Central Nigeria, using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze interrelationships among multiple latent constructs. Data were collected via structured questionnaires from project managers, contractors, consultants, and government officials, covering nine dimensions: contractor-related, owner-related, consultant-related, utility service-related, regulatory, project-specific, and external, equipment and material-related factors, and time overrun. Measurement model assessment demonstrated satisfactory reliability and validity, while the structural model revealed that contractor-related, owner-related, project-specific, and utility service-related factors significantly predict time overrun, accounting for 76.4% of its variance. Consultant, regulatory, external, and equipment/material factors were not significant in this context. These findings corroborate prior research emphasizing the systemic and multidimensional nature of delays in road projects. The study contributes theoretically by validating a context-specific multidimensional delay framework and demonstrates the utility of PLS-SEM in infrastructure research. Practically, the results provide actionable insights for improving contractor performance, enhancing owner decision-making, and strengthening utility coordination, thereby mitigating schedule delays and enhancing project delivery outcomes.