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ISSN No. 2321-2705 | DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI |Volume XII Issue X October 2025

A Comparative Analysis of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS)
and Conventional Construction Methods (CCM) In Port Harcourt,

Nigeria
Godson Kelechi., Nwogu Prince Chinemerem., Oduali Nheomachi Faith

Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Rivers State University Port
Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.1210000220

Received: 20 October 2025; Accepted: 28 October 2025; Published: 15 November 2025

ABSTRACT

This study provides a comparative evaluation of industrialized building systems and conventional construction
methods in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, emphasizing their structural components, cost frame works, time–cost
efficiency and implementation challenges. A descriptive research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured
questionnaire administered to professionals across both public and private construction sectors in Port Harcourt
including engineers, architects, contractors, quantity surveyors, project managers and builders. The study
employed both primary and secondary data sources. Out of seventy (70) distributed questionnaires, sixty (60)
was duly completed and deemed valid for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as mean and standard deviation
was used to analyze the data with the help of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 25.0). The
findings indicate that industrialized building systems projects utilized standardized, prefabricated components
such as beams, panels and slabs manufactured under controlled factory conditions, in contrast to labor intensive,
on site processes characterized by conventional construction. The result further review that industrialized
building systems achieve superior time-cost performance, reducing project duration approximately 40–50%
compared to conventional methods. Nevertheless, the wide spread adoption of industrialized building systems
in port Harcourt is hindered by factors such as insufficient technical expertise, high initial set up costs, weak
government policy support, poor infrastructure for transporting prefabricated components and cultural resistance
for to modern construction system. The study concludes by recommending that construction stakeholders should
adopt a hybrid strategy that merges the efficiency of prefabrication with the adaptability of conventional
methods, while both government agencies and private developers should undertake a comprehensive cost benefit
analyses prior to selecting an appropriate construction approach.

Keywords: Industrialized building system, conventional construction, cost efficiency, time management, Port
Harcourt.

INTRODUCTION

The construction sector serves as a cornerstone of economic progress in developing nations such as Nigeria,
contributing notably to the national GD and employment opportunities. Despite its importance, Nigeria’s
reliance on conventional construction methods has long been associated with persistent challenges, including
frequent project delays, excessive material waste, poor quality control, escalating costs, and inefficiencies in
labor management (Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). In response to these limitations, increasing attention has
been directed towards the adoption of industrialized building systems a modern approach that emphases offsite
prefabrication, mechanization, and standardization of building components as a viable alternative for enhancing
construction performance (Nawi, Lee, & Nor, 2018). Although industrialized building system has shown
potential to boost productivity, reduce project timelines, and support sustainable practices, its adoption in Nigeria
remains relatively low (Ede, 2014). Port Harcourt, the economic center of Rivers State, exemplifiers this
scenario, as rapid urbanization and cost effectives construction solutions. Nonetheless, most firms in the area
continue to depend on conventional, labor intensive, and site based construction techniques (Ogunbayo et al.,
2020). Comparative analyses between industrialized building systems and conventional construction methods
consistently reveal that industrialized building systems provide superior outcomes in quality control, cost

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predictability, and environmental performance (Yong, Sapuan, & Hamid, 2019). Because industrialized building
system components are manufactured under controlled factory conditions, they ensure greater precision and
reduced material wastage compared to traditional on-site processes. Furthermore industrialized building system
enhances project delivery seed and supports sustainable construction by carbon emissions and optimizing
resources utilization (Zawawi et al., 2021). Nevertheless, several barriers such as high initial investment costs,
insufficient technical expertise, lack of standardized practice, and cultural resistance within the local construction
community continue to impede its scale implementation in Nigeria Babatunde & Opawole, 2018). Port Harcourt
thus offers a relevant context for examining the comparative performance of industrialized building system and
conventional methods, particularly regarding cost efficiency, construction speed, labor productivity, quality
assurance, and environmental sustainability. Gaining insights into these dimensions is crucial for shaping policy
frameworks, fostering innovations, and promoting sustainable construction in Nigeria’s built environment
(Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). Consequently, this study seeks to conduct a comparative analysis of industrialized
building systems and conventional construction methods in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Its specific objectives are to:
identify and describe the key components and processes involved in both industrialized building systems and
conventional construction methods, compare the direct and indirect costs associated with both methods, evaluate
the time-cost efficiency of industrialized building systems and conventional construction and examine the
challenges hindering the implementing of industrialized building systems in Port Harcourt.

Concept Of Industrialized Building System (IBS)

The industrialized building system represents a modern construction approach that employs industrial production
methods to manufacture building components, which are subsequently transported to the site for assembly. This
technique seeks to enhance construction quality, efficiency, and productivity (Warszawski, 1999). Rahman and
Omar (2006) highlights that industrialized building system is defined by its reliance on prefabrication,
mechanization and automation all crucial for achieving sustainable and affordable delivery. Conversely,
conventional construction methods depend largely on manual, on-site operation, where structures are built
directly in place. Although conventional construction methods offers flexibility and adaptability, it often leads
to increased labor expenses, material wastage, and schedule delays (Ajayi et al., 2019). In Nigeria, the adoption
of industrialized building system is still at an early stage. The construction industry remains dominated by
conventional methods due to limited awareness, insufficient technical expertise and weak policy frameworks
(Babatunde & Opawole, 2018). Nevertheless, growing research indicates increasing acknowledgement of
industrialized building system potential to improve project outcomes and reduce the national housing shortage
(Ogunbayo et al., 2020). Ede (2014) emphasizes that chronic inefficiencies in Nigeria’s construction sector such
as project delay, poor quality, and cost escalation could be mitigated through effective industrialized building
system implementation. However, obstacles such as high initial capital requirements, lack of standardized
systems and dependence on imported technology continue to impede its widespread use (Emma-Ochu &
Onwuka, 2018). Empirical studies in Port Harcourt by Ogunbayo et al. (2020) and Adewuyi & Odesola (2020)
shows that traditional methods remain preferred due to their affordability and familiarity. Yet, pilot project
utilizing industrialized building system demonstrated superior quality control and faster completion times.
Similar findings were observed in Lagos, Abuja and Kano (Raji, 2023), indicating that industrialized building
system could be successfully scaled across Nigeria’s major urban centers if institutional and financial constraints
are effectively addressed.

Components and Processes Involved in Industrialized Building System and Conventional Construction
Methods

Industrialized building systems and conventional methods represent two fundamental different approaches
within the construction sectors, each characteristics by distinct processes, components and philosophies of
operation, industrialized building system focuses on prefabrication, mechanization and production efficiency
while conventional construction methods is grounded in manual, site-based craftsmanship and a step by step
construction workflow (Abdul Kadir et al., 2006; Nawi et al., 2018). In industrialized building system, most
structural elements are designed and manufactured off site under controlled factory condit ions before being
transported to the construction location for assembly. These components often include precast concrete beams,
columns, slabs, wall angels, and staircases, along with steel frames, modular units, and prefabricated wall
systems (Yong et al., 2019; Zawawi et al., 2021). The use of standardized, modular components promotes

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precision, quality consistency, and faster project delivery which is a key advantage of industrialized building
systems (Babatunde & Opawole, 2018). The industrialized building systems process typically follows a
structured workflow that includes design and standardized, off site fabrication, transportation and logistics, on
site assembly, finishing and integration, and quality control (Nawi et al., 2018). During the design phase, digital
technologies such as Computer Aided Design and Building Information Modeling are utilized to produce highly
accurate and interoperable designs (Yong et al., 2019). In view of the practical support, building information
modeling which is a technological tools that enables various construction stakeholders for project planning,
design, coordination and to enhance construction project delivery more effectively and efficiently (Kelechi,
Amadi, Chinemerem, 2025). Off-site fabrication then ensures consistent quality and minimizes structural defects
through factory based production (Zawawi et al., 2021). Components are subsequently transported to the
construction site for assembly using cranes and other heavy equipment, involving techniques such as bolting,
welding, or mechanical fastening, with minimal wet works required. The process concludes with finishing,
service integration for example electrical and plumbing installations, and rigorous quality checks to ensure
compliance with performance and safety standards (Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). According to Abdul Kadir et
al. (2006), this industrialized process enables concurrent off-site manufacturing and on site preparation, leading
to significant time savings and improved overall efficiency. Moreover, industrialized building systems supports
sustainability objectives by optimizing material use, reducing waste, and lowering carbon emissions (Zawawi et
al., 2021). Despite its many advantages, industrialized building systems adoption in developing contests such as
Nigeria remains limited due to high initial investment costs, insufficient technological infrastructure, and a
shortage of skilled professionals (Emma-Ochu & Onwuka, 2018). On the other hand, conventional construction
methods depend on the on-site production and assembly of all building elements using local materials and labor.
Major components include in-situ reinforced concrete (foundations, beams, columns, and slabs), masonry walls,
and timber or steel roofing systems (Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017).

Direct and Indirect Costs Associated With Industrialized Building System And Conventional
Construction Methods

Specifically, construction project costs are generally classified into two main categories which is direct and
indirect costs which differ significantly between industrialized building systems and conventional construction
methods. Direct costs encompass expenses that can be directly linked to specific construction task, such as
material, labor, and equipment. Indirect cost, by contrast, refers to supporting expenditures like administration,
supervision, and depreciation that facilitate project execution but cannot be attributed to individual activities
(Abdul Kadir et al., 2006; Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). The cost composition of industrialized building
system and conventional construction methods varies due to their distinct operational philosophies.
Industrialized building system emphasizes prefabrication and mechanization, while conventional construction
methods relies primarily on manual, on-site processes (Babatunde & Opawole, 2018; Yong et al., 2019). Material
expenses arise mainly from prefabricated components such as precast concrete, steel frames, and modular units,
which are costlier than conventional materials owing to stringent quality control and factory based production
(Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). However, these cost are offset by reduced waste, higher precision, and fewer
rework needs during assembly (Zawawi et al., 2021). Labor in industrialized building system involves hiring
specialized professionals engineering, BIM technicians, and crane operators resulting in higher hourly wages
despite smaller workforce requirements (Nawi et al., 2018). Equipment and machinery costs also form a large
portion of expenses since industrialized building system depends on crane, precast molds, factory automation
systems, and heavy duty transport (Emma-Ochu & Onwuka, 2018). In contrast, conventional construction
methods is dominated by manual labor, on-site material use, and prolonged construction durations. Direct costs
typically include materials like cement, sand, gravel, and timber, which are locally sourced but prone to wastage
due to poor storage and handling (Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). Other direct costs stem from temporary site
facilities, utilities, and security measures needed throughout the project (Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017).

Time–Cost Efficiency Of Industrialized Building Systems And Conventional Construction Methods

Time–cost efficiency plays a pivotal role in assessing the overall success and practicality of any construction
approach. It describes how effectively a system meets project goals completing work within the set budgets and
schedules without compromising quality. The performance of industrialized building systems and conventional
construction methods differs greatly due to variation in their operational frameworks, technology integration,

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and reliance on manual labor (Abdul Kadir et al., 2006; Yong et al., 2019). In industrialized building system,
efficiency is driven by prefabrication, standardization, and concurrent construction processes that enable off site
component production while on site preparations occur simultaneously. Components such as beams, slab, and
panels are fabricated in controlled environments, reducing errors and rework, while foundations are laid on-site.
This parallel workflow considerably reduces construction time compared to the sequential nature of conventional
construction methods Nawi et al., 2018). Studies indicate that industrialized building system can shorten project
completion time by 30–50% compared to conventional construction methods, as off-site production limits
weather disruptions and decreases dependence on site labor (Yong et al., 2019). Standardization and repetition
in industrialized building system generate economies of scale, particularly beneficial for large housing
developments where increased production lowers per unit costs (Emma-Ochu & Onwuka, 2018). In densely
populated areas such as Port Harcourt, industrialized building system also provides time benefits by mitigating
challenges linked to labor shortage, traffic, and environmental constraints. However, industrialized building
systems requires substantial upfront investment for factory setup, specialized equipment, and skilled labor
(Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). In contrast, conventional construction methods depends heavily on manual, site
based and sequential operations, resulting in extended project timelines and higher overall costs. Each
construction phase foundation, walling, roofing, and finishing occurs in succession, lengthening completion time
(Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). These methods are susceptible to delays caused by weather, labor
inefficiencies, and material shortages (Babatunde & Opawole, 2018).

Challenges hindering the Implementing of Industrialized Building Systems in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Implementing industrialized building systems in Port Harcourt presents considerable advantages but also
encounters notable obstacles that affect its overall acceptance and effectiveness in the construction sector. One
of the main advantages of industrialized building system is its ability to significantly accelerate project
completion through off site prefabrication, allowing simultaneous manufacturing and on-site operations. This
integration can reduce construction timelines by as much as 50% when compared to conventional building
methods (Abdul Kadir et al., 2006; Nawi et al., 2018). From a financial standpoint, industrialized building system
enhances long term cost efficiency through reduced labor reliance and the realization of economies of scale,
particularly in large construction projects (Babatunde & Opawole, 2018). Environmentally, it supports
sustainability goals by generating less on site waste and improving the use of resources an important
consideration in an industrial hub like Port Harcourt (Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). This system also improve
construction safety, as much of the work occurs in factory environments, thus lowering the risk of on-site
accidents and promoting better workers welfare (Yong et al., 2019). However, several challenges hinder the
widespread implementation of industrialized building system in Port Harcourt. The most significant barrier is
the substantial initial investment needed for setting up prefabrication facilities, purchasing specialized
machinery, and training skilled labor. This high entry cost often prevents small and medium sized construction
firms from participating (Adewuyi & Odesola, 2020). Another key issue is the shortage of professionals
proficient in industrialized construction techniques, as many local contractors still rely heavily on traditional
practices (Emma-Ochu & Onwuka, 2018). Infrastructure constraints such as inadequate transportation networks
and logical bottlenecks further complicate the delivery of prefabricated components, especially in the city’s
congested urban areas (Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). Furthermore, weak government policy frameworks,
absence of standardized regulations, and limited incentives have slowed private sector investment and the
broader adoption of industrialized building systems (Babatunde & Opawole, 2018).

Methods of the study

This study provide a comparative evaluation industrialized building systems and conventional construction
methods in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. A descriptive research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured
questionnaire administered based on five points likert scales to professionals across both public and private
construction sectors in Port Harcourt including engineers, architects, contractors, quantity surveyors, project
managers and builders. The study employed both primary and secondary data sources. Out of seventy (70)
distributed questionnaires, sixty (60) was duly completed and deemed valid for analysis. We analyzed the data
using mean and standard deviation with the aid of a statistical tools (SPSS version 25.0) According to the study
findings, industrialized building systems projects utilized standardized, prefabricated components such as beam,
panels and slabs manufactured under controlled factory conditions, in contrast to labor intensive, on site

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processes characteristic conventional construction. The result further review that industrialized building systems
achieves superior time cost performance, reducing project duration approximately 40–50% compared to
conventional methods. Nevertheless, the wide spread adoption of industrialized building systems in port
Harcourt is hindered by factors such as insufficient technical expertise, high initial set up costs, weak government
policy support, poor infrastructure for transporting prefabricated components and cultural resistance for to
modern construction system . The study concludes by recommending that construction stakeholders should adopt
a hybrid strategy that merges the efficiency of prefabrication with the adaptability of conventional methods,
while both government agencies and private developers should undertake a comprehensive cost benefit analyses
prior to selecting an appropriate construction approach.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS OF FINDINGS

Table 1: Questionnaire distribution and responses

Respondents Distribution Responses (%)Responses

Quantity Surveyors 14 12 86

Architects 12 11 92

Engineers 12 10 83

Project Managers 10 8 80

Builders 12 10 83

Contractors 10 9 90

Total 70 60 86

Source: Field Data 2025.

Data Analyses

Table 2: Summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the components and processes involved in both
Industrialized Building Systems and conventional construction methods.

S/N Items SA A N D SD Mean Std. Decision

1 I am familiar with Industrialized Building
System (IBS) techniques such as
prefabrication, modular, and panelized
systems.

28 27 5 0 0 4.38 0.64 Agreed

2 Conventional construction methods are more
commonly used than IBS in Port Harcourt.

16 28 12 3 1 3.92 0.91 Agreed

3 IBS provides adequate design flexibility. 19 29 10 2 0 4.08 0.79 Agreed

4 IBS allows for faster construction speed. 23 26 7 2 2 4.10 0.97 Agreed

5 IBS ensures better quality consistency. 29 22 7 2 0 4.30 0.81 Agreed

6 IBS materials are readily available in Port
Harcourt.

19 31 9 1 0 4.13 0.72 Agreed

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7 Conventional construction provides adequate
design flexibility.

21 27 7 5 0 4.07 0.90 Agreed

8 Conventional construction allows for faster
construction speed.

20 29 6 2 3 4.02 1.02 Agreed

9 Conventional construction ensures better
quality consistency.

16 26 15 1 2 3.88 0.94 Agreed

10 Conventional construction materials are
readily available in Port Harcourt.

21 28 8 3 0 4.12 0.83 Agreed

Grand mean 4.07 0.31 Agreed

Source: Researcher’s Fieldwork (2025).

The results from Table 2 show the summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the components and
processes involved in both Industrialized Building Systems and conventional construction methods. It shows
that the grand mean of the respondents over the components and processes was 4.07, SD=0.31. Specifically, the
respondents agreed that familiarity with Industrialized Building System (IBS) techniques such as prefabrication,
modular, and panelized systems was a key component with a mean rating of 4.38, SD=0.64. This was followed
by IBS ensuring better quality consistency with a mean rating of 4.30, SD=0.81. IBS materials being readily
available in Port Harcourt had a mean rating of 4.13, SD=0.72. Conventional construction materials being readily
available in Port Harcourt had a mean rating of 4.12, SD=0.83. IBS allowing for faster construction speed had a
mean rating of 4.10, SD=0.97. IBS providing adequate design flexibility had a mean rating of 4.08, SD=0.79.
Conventional construction providing adequate design flexibility had a mean rating of 4.07, SD=0.90.
Conventional construction allowing for faster construction speed had a mean rating of 4.02, SD=1.02.
Conventional construction being more commonly used than IBS in Port Harcourt had a mean rating of 3.92,
SD=0.91. Lastly, conventional construction ensuring better quality consistency had a mean rating of 3.88,
SD=0.94.

Table 3: Summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the direct and indirect costs associated with both
methods.

S/N Items SA A N D SD Mean Std. Decision

11 IBS has a higher initial cost than
conventional methods.

14 38 6 2 0 4.07 0.69 Agreed

12 IBS incurs higher labour costs than
conventional methods.

19 35 4 1 1 4.17 0.76 Agreed

13 IBS incurs higher indirect/overhead costs
(e.g., site management, logistics) than
conventional methods.

20 31 7 2 0 4.15 0.76 Agreed

14 IBS significantly affects material costs. 25 29 6 0 0 4.32 0.65 Agreed

15 IBS significantly affects labour costs. 22 27 10 1 0 4.17 0.76 Agreed

16 IBS significantly affects plant and equipment
costs.

21 33 4 0 2 4.18 0.83 Agreed

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17 Conventional construction significantly
affects material costs.

18 32 9 0 1 4.10 0.77 Agreed

18 Conventional construction significantly
affects labour costs.

25 24 5 4 2 4.10 1.04 Agreed

19 Conventional construction significantly
affects plant and equipment costs.

21 27 5 4 3 3.98 1.08 Agreed

Grand mean 4.14 0.28 Agreed

Source: Researcher’s Fieldwork (2025).

The results from Table 3 show the summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the direct and indirect
costs associated with both methods. It shows that the grand mean of the respondents over the direct and indirect
costs was 4.14, SD=0.28. Specifically, the respondents agreed that IBS significantly affecting material costs was
a key factor with a mean rating of 4.32, SD=0.65. This was followed by IBS significantly affecting plant and
equipment costs with a mean rating of 4.18, SD=0.83. IBS incurring higher labour costs and significantly
affecting labour costs each had a mean rating of 4.17, SD=0.76. IBS incurring higher indirect/overhead costs
(e.g., site management, logistics) had a mean rating of 4.15, SD=0.76. Conventional construction significantly
affecting material costs and labour costs each had a mean rating of 4.10, SD=0.77 and SD=1.04, respectively.
IBS having a higher initial cost than conventional methods had a mean rating of 4.07, SD=0.69. Lastly,
conventional construction significantly affecting plant and equipment costs had a mean rating of 3.98, SD=1.08.

Table 4: Summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the time-cost efficiency of IBS and conventional
construction.

S/N Items SA A N D SD Mean Std. Decision

20 The initial cost of Industrialized Building
Systems (IBS) is higher compared to
conventional construction methods.

24 25 8 2 1 4.15 0.90 Agreed

21 The labor cost associated with Industrialized
Building Systems (IBS) is higher than that of
conventional methods.

22 33 5 0 0 4.28 0.61 Agreed

22 The indirect/overhead costs (e.g., site
management, logistics) of Industrialized
Building Systems (IBS) are higher than those
of conventional construction methods.

20 29 6 4 1 4.05 0.93 Agreed

23 The use of Industrialized Building Systems
(IBS) significantly increases material costs
compared to conventional construction
methods.

23 31 4 1 1 4.23 0.79 Agreed

24 The use of Industrialized Building Systems
(IBS) significantly increases labor costs
compared to conventional construction
methods.

17 28 10 2 3 3.90 1.02 Agreed

25 The use of Industrialized Building Systems
(IBS) significantly increases plant and

23 24 7 6 0 4.07 0.95 Agreed

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equipment costs compared to conventional
construction methods.

Grand mean 4.10 0.29 Agreed

Source: Researcher’s Fieldwork (2025).

The results from Table 4 show the summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the time-cost efficiency
of IBS and conventional construction. It shows that the grand mean of the respondents over the time-cost
efficiency was 4.10, SD=0.29. Specifically, the respondents agreed that the labor cost associated with
Industrialized Building Systems (IBS) being higher than that of conventional methods was a key factor with a
mean rating of 4.28, SD=0.61. This was followed by the use of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS)
significantly increasing material costs compared to conventional construction methods with a mean rating of
4.23, SD=0.79. The initial cost of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS) being higher compared to conventional
construction methods had a mean rating of 4.15, SD=0.90. The use of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS)
significantly increasing plant and equipment costs compared to conventional construction methods had a mean
rating of 4.07, SD=0.95. The indirect/overhead costs (e.g., site management, logistics) of Industrialized Building
Systems (IBS) being higher than those of conventional construction methods had a mean rating of 4.05, SD=0.93.
Lastly, the use of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS) significantly increasing labor costs compared to
conventional construction methods had a mean rating of 3.90, SD=1.02.

Table 5: Summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the challenges hindering the Implementation of
Industrialized Building Systems in Port Harcourt.

S/N Items SA A N D SD Mean Std. Decision

26 The high initial cost hinders IBS
implementation in Port Harcourt.

19 32 8 1 0 4.15 0.71 Agreed

27 Lack of local expertise hinders IBS
implementation in Port Harcourt.

24 25 9 2 0 4.18 0.81 Agreed

28 Resistance to change hinders IBS
implementation in Port Harcourt.

17 30 9 3 1 3.98 0.89 Agreed

29 Limited prefabrication facilities hinders IBS
implementation in Port Harcourt.

22 28 7 3 0 4.15 0.82 Agreed

30 Transportation and logistics challenges
hinders IBS implementation in Port Harcourt.

29 23 5 2 1 4.28 0.88 Agreed

31 Lack of purchasing of specialized machinery
hinders IBS implementation in Port Harcourt.

28 25 5 2 0 4.32 0.77 Agreed

32 Weak government policy frameworks hinders
IBS implementation in Port Harcourt.

22 30 7 1 0 4.22 0.72 Agreed

33 Absence of standardized regulations hinders
IBS implementation in Port Harcourt.

19 28 9 4 0 4.03 0.86 Agreed

34 Inadequate technology infrastructure hinders
IBS implementation in Port Harcourt.

19 30 7 2 2 4.03 0.94 Agreed

Grand mean 4.15 0.23 Agreed

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Source: Researcher’s Fieldwork (2025).

The results from Table 5 show the summary of mean and standard deviation statistics on the challenges and
benefits of implementing IBS in Port Harcourt. It shows that the grand mean of the respondents over the
challenges and benefits was 4.15, SD=0.23. Specifically, the respondents agreed that government incentives
encouraging IBS adoption in Port Harcourt was a key benefit with a mean rating of 4.32, SD=0.77. This was
followed by transportation and logistics challenges hindering IBS adoption in Port Harcourt with a mean rating
of 4.28, SD=0.88. Training and awareness programs encouraging IBS adoption in Port Harcourt had a mean
rating of 4.22, SD=0.72. The high initial cost hindering IBS adoption in Port Harcourt and limited prefabrication
facilities hindering IBS adoption in Port Harcourt each had a mean rating of 4.15, SD=0.71 and SD=0.82,
respectively. Lack of local expertise hindering IBS adoption in Port Harcourt had a mean rating of 4.18,
SD=0.81. Local IBS manufacturing plants encouraging IBS adoption in Port Harcourt and partnerships with
foreign firms encouraging IBS adoption in Port Harcourt each had a mean rating of 4.03, SD=0.86 and SD=0.94,
respectively. Lastly, resistance to change hindering IBS adoption in Port Harcourt had a mean rating of 3.98,
SD=0.89.

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

The findings from Table 2 show that respondents strongly agree on the components and processes involved in
both Industrialized Building Systems (IBS) and conventional construction methods, with an overall mean of 4.07
and a standard deviation of 0.31, indicating a high level of consensus. Familiarity with IBS techniques, such as
prefabrication, modular, and panelized systems, is rated highest, with a mean of 4.38 and a standard deviation
of 0.64, suggesting that professionals are well-acquainted with these methods. Research supports this, noting
that familiarity with IBS techniques is growing due to their increasing use in modern construction for efficiency
and standardisation (Ogunmakinde & Eze, 2023). Similarly, IBS ensuring better quality consistency, with a
mean of 4.30 and a standard deviation of 0.81, is highly valued, indicating that these systems are seen as reliable
for maintaining high standards. Studies confirm that IBS methods, like prefabrication, often result in improved
quality control compared to traditional methods (Akinradewo & Ojo, 2022). Other aspects, such as material
availability for both IBS (mean of 4.13) and conventional construction (mean of 4.12), and faster construction
speed with IBS (mean of 4.10), also rank highly, while conventional construction scores lower for quality
consistency (mean of 3.88). These results suggest that IBS is increasingly recognized for its quality and
efficiency, but conventional methods remain relevant due to their flexibility and familiarity. The findings from
Table 3 show that respondents strongly agree on the direct and indirect costs associated with Industrialized
Building Systems (IBS) and conventional construction methods, with an overall mean of 4.14 and a standard
deviation of 0.28, indicating a high level of consensus. The most significant factor is that IBS significantly affects
material costs, with a mean rating of 4.32 and a standard deviation of 0.65, suggesting that material expenses are
a major consideration in IBS projects. Research supports this, noting that IBS often involves higher material
costs due to the use of prefabricated components, which require precise specifications (Ogunmakinde & Akanbi,
2024). Similarly, IBS significantly affecting plant and equipment costs, with a mean of 4.18 and a standard
deviation of 0.83, highlights the substantial investment in specialized equipment for IBS. Studies confirm that
IBS methods typically require advanced machinery, increasing equipment-related costs compared to
conventional methods (Eze & Ojo, 2021). Other factors, such as higher labour costs for IBS (mean of 4.17) and
material costs for conventional construction (mean of 4.10), also rank highly, while conventional construction’s
impact on plant and equipment costs scores lower (mean of 3.98). These results suggest that IBS tends to have
higher material and equipment costs, underscoring the need for careful cost planning when choosing between
IBS and conventional methods. The findings from Table 4 show that respondents strongly agree on the factors
affecting the time-cost efficiency of Industrialized Building Systems (IBS) compared to conventional
construction methods, with an overall mean of 4.10 and a standard deviation of 0.29, indicating a high level of
consensus. The most significant factor is the higher labour costs associated with IBS compared to conventional
methods, with a mean rating of 4.28 and a standard deviation of 0.61, suggesting that labour expenses are a major
concern for IBS projects. Research supports this, noting that IBS often requires skilled labour for prefabrication
and assembly, which increases labour costs compared to traditional construction (Akinradewo & Eze, 2023).
Similarly, the use of IBS significantly increasing material costs compared to conventional methods, with a mean
of 4.23 and a standard deviation of 0.79, highlights the higher expense of specialised materials in IBS. Studies

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confirm that IBS relies on prefabricated components, which tend to be more costly than materials used in
conventional construction (Ojo & Ugochukwu, 2022). Other factors, such as higher initial costs (mean of 4.15)
and increased plant and equipment costs (mean of 4.07) for IBS, also rank highly, while indirect costs score
slightly lower (mean of 4.05). These results suggest that while IBS may offer efficiency benefits, its higher
labour and material costs require careful consideration in project planning. The findings from Table 5 show that
respondents strongly agree on the challenges of implementing Industrialized Building Systems (IBS), with an
overall mean of 4.15 and a standard deviation of 0.23, indicating a high level of consensus. Lack of purchasing
of specialized machinery hinders IBS implementation in Port Harcourt are rated as the top challenges, with a
mean of 4.32 and a standard deviation of 0.77, suggesting that lack of purchasing of specialized machinery
significantly slow the use of IBS. Research supports this, noting that lack of early purchase of specialized
machinery hinders IBS implementation in construction projects (Eze & Ogunmakinde, 2023). However,
transportation and logistics challenges are identified as a major hindrance, with a mean of 4.28 and a standard
deviation of 0.88, indicating that difficulties in moving prefabricated components limit IBS implementation.
Studies confirm that logistical issues, such as poor transportation infrastructure, often impede the effective use
of IBS in construction (Akinradewo & Ugochukwu, 2022). Other factors, such as training programs (mean of
4.22) and high initial costs (mean of 4.15), also rank highly, while resistance to change scores lower (mean of
3.98). These results suggest that while government support and training boost IBS adoption, logistical challenges
and costs remain significant barriers, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and cost management
strategies.

CONCLUSION

The comparative analysis of industrialized building systems and conventional construction methods in Port
Harcourt, Nigeria, highlights notable distinctions in their workflows, cost dynamics, time management, and
overall project performance. Both approaches play essential roles in the Nigerian construction landscape.
However, their effectiveness is largely determined by the specific projects scope, objectives, and economic
context. The findings suggest that industrialized building systems presents a more sustainable, efficient, and cost
effective option over the long term. Despite its advantages, the widespread implementation of industrialized
building in Port Harcourt and across Nigeria faces key obstacles such as high initial investment requirements,
limiting technical expertise, insufficient standardization, and weak policy support. Promoting investments in
prefabrication facilities, expanding training programs for technical and management professionals, and
providing policy incentives for developers could significantly boost the shift toward industrialized construction.
Ultimately, while conventional methods remain suitable for smaller scale projects prioritizing flexibility and
affordability, the future growth of Nigeria’s construction sector particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like
Port Harcourt rest on adopting the sustainable, time and cost efficient benefits of industrialized building system.
Incorporating industrialized construction into national housing and infrastructure strategies will enable Nigeria
to enhance construction quality, shorten project timeline, and meet the growing demand for resilient and
affordable urban hosing

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Construction stakeholders should adopt a hybrid strategy that merges the efficiency of prefabrication with
the adaptability of conventional methods.

2. Both government agencies and private developers should undertake a comprehensive cost benefit analyses
prior to selecting an appropriate construction approach.

3. Construction companies should adopt digital tools such as building information modeling and project
management software to enhance both industrialized building systems and conventional construction
methods.

4. There is a need to strengthen capacity building initiatives aimed at training artisans, engineers and project
managers in the technical and managerial competencies required for effective industrialized building system
production and assembly.

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