EFFECT OF MODERN PROJECT PLANNING APPROACHES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN NORTH – EAST, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed the effect of modern project planning approaches on the
performance of construction firms in North - East Nigeria. A descriptive survey
design was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires
issued to 160 professionals across 16 purposively selected firms in Adamawa,
Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba States, out of which 115 valid responses were
analyzed. Representing a 71% response rate. Descriptive and inferential
statistics, including correlation and regression analyses, were applied using
SPSS version 25. The findings revealed that AI-driven predictive planning, lean
planning, and agile planning were the most impactful techniques, significantly
improving time, cost, and quality performance. Regression analysis showed that
modern planning techniques explained 62.6% of the variance in project
performance, while multiple regression confirmed a strong positive relationship
(R = 0.745, R² = 0.555). The study concludes that although firms still emphasize
traditional success criteria, integrating modern techniques enhances efficiency,
adaptability, and sustainability. It recommends wider adoption of digital, lean,
and sustainable planning approaches to improve project outcomes in the
Nigerian construction sector.