AN INVESTIGATION INTO MEANS OF ACHIEVING ENHANCED PRODUCTIVITY AMONG TRADEMEN IN BUILDING INDUSTRY (A CASE STUDY OF EKITI STATE)

ABSTRACT This study investigates the factors influencing the productivity of building tradesmen in Ekiti State, utilizing a descriptive survey methodology to gather quantitative data through structured questionnaires. A sample of 40 respondents, comprising architects, engineers, and project managers, provided insights into productivity levels among tradesmen. Data analysis using SPSS revealed that "Wages and Bonus" (Mean = 4.33) emerged as the most significant factor affecting productivity, underscoring the motivational power of financial incentives. Other notable variables included "Time for completion of activity" (Mean = 3.72) and "Familiarity with equipment in use" (Mean = 3.60), highlighting the critical role of effective time management and technical expertise in enhancing operational efficiency. Demographic analysis indicated a predominantly young workforce, with 65% of respondents under 25 years old. Educational qualifications varied, with 55% holding diplomas and 37.5% possessing bachelor's degrees. In terms of professional roles, civil engineers constituted 67.5% of the sample, emphasizing the strong presence of engineering expertise in the construction sector. The study also identified key performance outcomes, with "Completion to time" (Mean = 3.93) and "Quality of work to client satisfaction" (Mean = 3.87) ranking highest among performance indicators. Furthermore, the findings suggest that enhanced wages and flexible work schedules are pivotal in driving workplace improvements, aligning with previous research on the impact of financial incentives on workforce motivation. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of productivity determinants in the construction industry and provides actionable insights for improving tradesmen performance in Ekiti State.