DETERMINANT FACTORS INFLUENCING THE QUALITY OF RIGID PAVEMENT PROJECT EXECUTION IN SUNGAI PENUH CITY

Abstract

The quality of road construction projects is a critical determinant of infrastructure performance and sustainability. However, in Sungai Penuh City, several rigid pavement projects have faced issues of poor execution quality, leading to reduced durability and increased maintenance costs. This study was conducted with three main objectives: (1) to identify the factors contributing to low construction quality, (2) to determine the dominant factors influencing project outcomes, and (3) to propose practical solutions for improvement. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative analysis through surveys with qualitative insights from literature reviews and expert interviews. A total of 64 questionnaires were distributed, allowing comprehensive statistical analysis. The results revealed nine major factors influencing construction quality: design, work methods, materials, equipment, workforce, managerial aspects, supervision, financial resources, and environmental conditions. Factor analysis highlighted that material-related issues were the most dominant, accounting for 33.907% of the variance. Key problems included non-compliance of materials with technical specifications, inadequate material testing, procurement delays, and logistical inefficiencies. To address these challenges, a PDCA (Plan–Do–Check–Action) framework was applied as a structured solution, emphasizing systematic planning, effective implementation, quality inspection, and corrective measures. The findings demonstrate that improving material management through PDCA not only enhances compliance with technical standards but also establishes a framework for continuous quality improvement in road construction projects. This study contributes both theoretically by validating critical factors in construction quality and practically by offering actionable strategies for stakeholders to ensure sustainable infrastructure development in Sungai Penuh City.