@article{Alumbugu_Shakantu_Tsado_Ola-awo_2022, title={Efficient utilisation of automation in construction materials-handling processes }, volume={29}, url={https://journals.ufs.ac.za/index.php/as/article/view/6907}, DOI={10.18820/24150487/as29i2.2}, abstractNote={<p>There is a limited understanding of automation in construction materials-handling processes utilised by manufacturing firms in Nigeria. This article evaluates the level of utilisation of automation in construction materials-handling operations by manufacturing firms in North-Central Nigeria, to improve operational efficiency and reduce operating costs. Using a case study research design, quantitative data (observation guide with measurements) were collected from 32 purposively selected construction-material manufacturers. A total of 72 customers’ orders were observed and recorded to be representative of deliveries from the sampled (n=32) manufacturers’ warehouses to other terminals. The descriptive method of data analysis was employed using percentages and results presented in a form of bar charts. The study reveals low-level utilisation of automation in the combined processes of order picking, storage, loading, and offloading of material. These imply increasing material costs and causing a delay in delivery. The article concludes by providing construction-material manufacturers with areas that require automation to optimise material-handling operations. A recommendation is made for further study to explore why automation is not utilised despite its advantage.  </p>}, number={2}, journal={Acta Structilia}, author={Alumbugu, Polycarp and Shakantu, Winston and Tsado, Abel and Ola-awo, Wasiu}, year={2022}, month={Nov.}, pages={33–57} }