Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Simon Rawlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Rawlinson
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Title: Price stability and the business cycle: UK construction bidding patterns 1970-91
Abstract:
Problems of competitive pricing and strategic management in the
construction industry are discussed. A statistical analysis of tender
spread patterns over the period 1970-91 shows that changing market
conditions influence levels of risk exposure and in turn affect the
establishment of a market-generated 'going rate' for construction. A
pattern of increasing stability of pricing is identified during the 1980s,
and this pattern is linked to developments in the strategic management of
contracting organizations. Despite trenchant criticism of the sealed bid
as a method of price determination, the industry's price levels do respond
relatively quickly to changed economic conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-18
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Business Cycles, Bidding, Market Prices,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373079
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zedan Hatush
Author-X-Name-First: Zedan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hatush
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Criteria for contractor selection
Abstract:
This paper is concerned with identifying universal criteria for
prequalification and bid evaluation, and the means by which different
emphases can be accommodated to suit the requirements of clients and
projects. The information, assessment and evaluation strategies currently
used by procurers for screening contractors are considered, and the
results are reported of an extensive literature review and a Delphic
interview study with a small select sample of construction professionals
with extensive experience in prequalification and bid evaluation
processes. The findings indicate that the most common criteria considered
by procurers during the prequalification and bid process are those
pertaining to financial soundness, technical ability, management
capability, and the health and safety performance of contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 19-38
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Prequalification, Bid Evaluation, Information, Criteria Assessment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373088
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997373088
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:19-38
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Eric
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: George Norman
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Norman
Title: Economic evaluation of materials planning systems for construction
Abstract:
It has been noted that many problems exist among local construction
contractors owing to inefficient materials management. Problems reported
include delays in the supply of construction materials, and inappropriate
scheduling of materials in construction projects. There is a need for an
improved materials planning approach. Efficient planning of materials not
only means increased productivity and profit to the company, but also
facilitates the completion of construction projects. In view of the
variation in size, timing and frequency of material orders, the authors
felt that the implementation of a materials planning system (MPS) in
construction would produce cost savings similar to those achieved in the
manufacturing industry. However, an economic evaluation of a construction
MPS would probably involve the treatment of uncertain costs and savings. A
practical risk analysis based on converting subjective estimates of timing
and magnitude of cash flows to beta distributions was used to illustrate
the feasibility of implementing such a system in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 39-47
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Construction, Materials Planning, Risk Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:39-47
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chun-Li Peng
Author-X-Name-First: Chun-Li
Author-X-Name-Last: Peng
Author-Name: Domenic Scorpio
Author-X-Name-First: Domenic
Author-X-Name-Last: Scorpio
Author-Name: Charles Kibert
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Kibert
Title: Strategies for successful construction and demolition waste recycling operations
Abstract:
Establishing a successful construction/demolition (C&D) waste recyling
operation in the USA is a challenge today, especially because secondary
materials markets have not yet matured. Increasingly, municipal solid
waste (MSW) landfill operations refuse to accept C&D waste. Skyrocketing
tipping fees due to the scarcity of landfill sites, and growing concerns
from regulatory agencies and the public, have placed C&D waste recycling
operations under intense scrutiny. The experiences of regional C&D
recyclers indicate that successful recycling operations require a minimum
of 0.8 ha of clear space for processing equipment, incoming waste
stockpiles, recycled materials, and manoeuvring room for mobile equipment
and operations. Reasonable quality, reliable equipment suitable for these
operations generally costs between $300 000 and $750 000 for a 400-500
tonne/day operation. At present, operators of these facilities make a
profit almost solely on tipping fees, with the recycling operation
functioning mainly to maintain materials throughput. Different categories
of C&D recycling machinery and waste processing strategies are presented.
Strategies for converting C&D landfills into successful C&D recycling
operations are also examined. C&D waste recycling economics are presented
to demonstrate the essential ingredients for successful operations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 49-58
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Recycling, Landfill, Machinery, Demolition, Waste, Sustainability, Environmental Impact,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373105
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:49-58
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christopher Preece
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Preece
Author-Name: Steven Male
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Male
Title: Promotional literature for competitive advantage in UK construction firms
Abstract:
This paper outlines the findings of an in-depth survey exploring the
effective use of promotional brochures and other corporate literature in
providing a competitive advantage in the marketing of contractual services
in construction. The research project on which this paper is based
involved surveys of major client organizations and their professional
advisers, i.e. architects, engineers, project managers etc., who provided
constructive criticism of the promotional efforts of contracting firms.
The research also involved the senior marketing management responsible for
promotion in construction firms, and promotional design consultants and
agents employed by the industry to produce promotional brochures and other
material. The principal findings are that construction firms need to give
more attention to the careful targeting of their promotional literature to
specific members of the client's team, tailoring material to the
particular needs of the client and proposed project, and trimming material
so that it concisely communicates a persuasive message concerning the
firms' corporate image and the benefits of a clearly differentiated
service. The paper presents practical recommendations based on the
analysis for the more effective use of brochures and annual reports as
part of the promotional strategies in the provision of construction
contractual services.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 59-69
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Promotion, Marketing, Competitive Advantage, Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373114
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997373114
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:59-69
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Title: Communication and governance in the building process
Abstract:
Through a proposed interpretative framework the relationship between
forms of transactional governance and type of information processing and
communication media is analysed. Building projects are successfully
completed through the development of federative mechanisms, such as
cooperation, informal roles and rules, that complement and circumvent the
hierarchical and formal provisions of standard contracts. At present there
is a dislocation between the pattern of roles and rules advocated by
standard contracts and that observed in practice. During the design and
engineering process, federative mechanisms are supported by the exchange
of qualitative and uncertain information through personal communication
media such as group meetings and direct contacts. The focus of new
information technologies should be broadened from controlling contractual
compliance to facilitating communication and interaction among project
participants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 71-82
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Building Process, Transactional Organizations, Contracts, Communication Factors, Information Technology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373123
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:71-82
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Kaming
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaming
Author-Name: Paul Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: Factors influencing construction time and cost overruns on high-rise projects in Indonesia
Abstract:
Many variables have an impact upon construction time and cost overruns in
Indonesia. A questionnaire survey was undertaken of project managers
working on high-rise construction projects in two Indonesian cities:
Jakarta and Yogyakarta. The variables identified were ranked according to
their perceived importance and frequencies of occurrence. Inflationary
increases in material cost, inaccurate material estimating and project
complexity are the main causes of cost overruns. The predominant causes of
delay are design changes, poor labour productivity and inadequate
planning. Using factor analysis techniques, delay and cost overrun
variables were grouped into factors, and their relationships analysed.
Although Indonesia specific, the results reflect construction management
problems common to developing countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 83-94
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Delays, Cost Overruns, Productivity, High-rise, Indonesia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373132
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:83-94
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Olugboyega Adams
Author-X-Name-First: Olugboyega
Author-X-Name-Last: Adams
Title: Contractor development in Nigeria: perceptions of contractors and professionals
Abstract:
Foreign construction firms dominate the major projects in most developing
countries as a result of deficiencies in indigenous construction capacity.
A plethora of measures have been formulated and implemented to promote
development of domestic contractors in these countries, but most attempts
have achieved little success. This paper, arising from a larger study on
management training needs of contractors in Nigeria, describes findings on
constraints on indigenous contractors' performance in the Nigerian
industry. Contractor-development programmes perceived as relevant and
appropriate to improve their performance in the industry are also
reported. The views of indigenous contractors and professionals were
compared. There was a strong agreement between both groups on the major
constraints in the industry and on the measures perceived as most
important for the development of Nigerian contractors. Problems emanating
from the business environment were generally perceived by both groups as
the most severe constraints. Contractor-development programmes, perceived
as very important by both groups, are also the measures required to
ameliorate the most important constraints identified: obtaining interim
payments, uncertainties in supplies and prices of materials, inadequate
access to capital, plant and equipment. Contractor development is
inevitably an integral part of a construction industry development
programme, given the nature of constraints and development needs
emphasized by both groups. The focus therefore should be on establishing a
comprehensive programme for the development of the construction industry.
More attention should be placed on contractor training to promote
management development of trained construction professionals, now emerging
as the new crop of construction entrepreneurs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 95-108
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Contractor Development, Developing Countries, Nigeria, Smes, Industry Development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373141
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:95-108
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kwong Wing Chau
Author-X-Name-First: Kwong Wing
Author-X-Name-Last: Chau
Title: Monte Carlo simulation of construction costs using subjective data: response
Abstract:
This communication is a response to the insightful note by Fellows on
previous papers by the author. Not only has Fellows supplemented Chau's
major arguments, he has also expanded the scope of discussion and raised
new issues. While the author agrees with most of the points made by
Fellows, there are concepts and arguments that need to be clarified. This
note is a response to certain issues raised by Fellows. It also clarifies
certain concepts and gives alternative viewpoints. Most of these
viewpoints complement rather than contradict those given by Fellows. It is
hoped that this note will arouse readers' interest in the subject as well
as contribute to the academic debate of the issue. The sequence of the
discussion follows that in Fellows' note.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-115
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Construction Cost Distribution, Monte Carlo Simulation, Probabilistic Cost Estimate,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373150
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997373150
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:109-115
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Darryll Crook
Author-X-Name-First: Darryll
Author-X-Name-Last: Crook
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Title: The role of theory in construction management: a call for debate
Abstract:
We raise a number of questions concerning the theoretical basis of
construction management, and enquire into the nature of construction
management theory. We highlight the dominant research paradigm in
construction management, and call for attention to be paid to alternative
research paradigms. We call for a scholarly debate to investigate these
issues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 117-119
Issue: 1
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Management Theory, Management Research, Research Paradigms, Interpretive Paradigms, Rationalist Paradigm,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373169
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:117-119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zedan Hatush
Author-X-Name-First: Zedan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hatush
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Evaluating contractor prequalification data: selection criteria and project success factors
Abstract:
A Delphic study investigating the perceived relationship between 20
contractor selection criteria (CSC) currently in use and project success
factors (PSFs) in terms of time, cost and quality is described involving a
sample of eight experienced construction personnel, including two
validators. A consensus of the likely impact of each criterion on time,
cost and quality is established in terms of pessimistic, average and
optimistic values, which are then converted into expected means and
variances via the PERT approach. The ten most and ten least important CSCs
are identified and examined for differences and similarities between PSFs.
The results show that past failures, financial status, financial
stability, credit ratings, experience, ability, management personnel and
management knowledge are perceived to be the dominant CSCs affecting all
three PSFs, with safety criteria (safety, experience modification rate,
OSHA incidence rate, management safety accountability) and the length of
time in business being perceived to have the least effect overall. Some
CSCs, such as past performance, bank arrangements, project management
organization, plant and equipment were perceived to affect only one or two
PSFs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-147
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Prequalification, selection criteria, project success factors, Delphic study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000002
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:129-147
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: Choosing an appropriate research methodology
Abstract:
The choice of research methodology is a difficult step in the research
process. By way of a case study, the approach adopted in one PhD study is
explored. The research project involved a detailed study of 33 building
projects constructed in Melbourne during the period 1987 to 1993. The
principal research objective was to understand better why some buildings
are constructed faster than others, by identifying risk factors and how
construction managers respond to them. Multiple regression analysis was
used to derive a model that predicts construction time from a
representative sample of projects. The performance model was then used to
compare predicted with actual construction project duration to develop a
construction time performance index. This performance ratio was then used
to compare 102 variable factors by testing the null hypothesis that each
variable does not affect construction time performance (at the 95%
confidence level). Correlation analysis of all identified variables was
also undertaken to link associations between factors for those affecting
and not affecting construction time performance. The contribution of this
paper is to identify one research approach for a specific research problem
within the construction discipline so that others may be aware of this
when making a choice of methodologies for pursuing their own research
work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 149-159
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Research methodology, case study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000003
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:149-159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. K. Mok
Author-X-Name-First: C. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mok
Author-Name: V.M. Rao Tummala
Author-X-Name-First: V.M. Rao
Author-X-Name-Last: Tummala
Author-Name: H. M. Leung
Author-X-Name-First: H. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Title: Practices, barriers and benefits of risk management process in building services cost estimation
Abstract:
The preparation of cost estimates for construction projects is not an
easy job, because construction projects are subject to risks and
uncertainties, particularly at the inception stage, when very limited
information about the project is available. However, the cost estimates
prepared at this stage are usually the most important to the client.
Nowadays, the costs for building services installations contribute a
significant share of the total construction cost of building projects.
Thus the accuracy of the building services cost estimates plays an
important role in the total building construction project cost estimates.
Traditionally, building services cost estimates are prepared by a
deterministic single-figure (most likely) approach. This approach is often
cost-ineffective and reactionary in nature. The risk management process
(RMP) provides a logical consistent framework in identifying the risk
factors affecting costs and in making allowances for risks in cost
estimation. A survey was conducted to find out the current building
services cost estimation practices and to obtain an insight into the
understanding, use and application of RMP in preparing building services
cost estimates within the building services industry. The results of the
survey have suggested that the traditional deterministic cost estimation
method is still being adopted by the majority of building services
engineers in preparing cost estimates. Also, RMP has not been widely
adopted by the building services industry in Hong Kong. From the analysis
of building services firms and engineers with regard to the critical
success factors for implementation of risk management, the survey reflects
that the potential of implementing RMP for building services cost
estimation is high.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 161-175
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Building services, cost, estimating, risk, uncertainty,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000004
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:161-175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: H. K. Lee
Author-X-Name-First: H. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: K. Wong
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Safety cost optimization of building projects in Hong Kong
Abstract:
A survey was undertaken of the losses or costs incurred in building
contracts because of accidents on building sites. Altogether, 576
accidents from 18 building sites were investigated. On each site, an
accident occurrence index (AOI) was calculated by dividing the total
equivalent day loss by the total man-days required for the project. Using
the results of the 18 projects, a relationship was obtained between the
site accident costs and the AOI. Similarly, a relationship was found
between the safety investment and the AOI. From these two curves, the
optimal safety investment on a building site by a contractor could be
determined. It was found that the minimum safety investment on a building
project is about 0.6% of the contract sum. The above finding was based on
accidents in which employees sustain fatal injuries or are absent from
work for more than 3 consecutive days through injury. If first-aid-only
and non-injury accidents were also considered, the minimum safety
investment increased to 0.8% of the contract sum.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 177-186
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Safety, accident, cost, site operations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000005
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:177-186
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ali Shash
Author-X-Name-First: Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Shash
Author-Name: Mohammed Al-Amir
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Amir
Title: Information technology in contractors' firms in Saudi Arabia
Abstract:
The evolution of the Saudi construction industry correlated with rapid
growth in Saudi Arabian oil revenues. Construction companies of all sizes
were established during this rapid growth. The extent of computer use in
these companies has been surveyed using a structured questionnaire. This
reveals that computers are not widely used among contractors. However, all
large contractors, 62% of medium-sized contractors and 41% of small
contractors use computers mainly for administrative operations, such as
accounting and database management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 187-200
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Information technology, computer, Saudi Arabia, contractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000006
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:187-200
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Philip Leather
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Leather
Author-Name: Susan Rolfe
Author-X-Name-First: Susan
Author-X-Name-Last: Rolfe
Title: Fit for the task: the future of the small scale domestic repair and maintenance industry in the UK
Abstract:
The poor condition of much of the UK's older housing stock is an
important policy issue. Some disrepair arises because owners cannot afford
work, because they are not aware of the need for it or because they do not
know how to go about organizing it. However, the poor reputation of that
sector of the building industry dealing with small scale domestic repair
and maintenance is also a deterrent. If anything, the problems of this
sector have worsened during the recession as the supply of unskilled
'cowboy' operators has increased. This paper reviews the factors leading
to underinvestment and poor quality work in the privately owned housing
stock and examines the extent to which the shortcomings of the building
industry contribute to this phenomenon. It describes the results of a
survey of firms operating in the domestic repair and maintenance sector of
the UK building industry, the majority of which were very small. The
survey examined the size and composition of firms, their organization and
working practices, the types of work they carried out, how they went about
obtaining business, the extent to which their work-force was trained and
the problems they faced in competing with one another and with the cowboy
sector. On the basis of the survey conclusions and discussions with a wide
range of organisations representing the industry, consumers, local
authorities and government, a series of options for reform are discussed
with the aim of stimulating debate on the future of this sector of the
construction industry. It is argued that the problems of the UK industry
cannot be solved by tighter controls on builders alone, but by a range of
measures designed to provide more support and training to reputable
builders, measures to exert greater controls over building techniques and
safety provision to reduce unfair competition and programmes to educate
the consumer to demand better standards and to be willing to pay for them.
Ultimately only compulsory measures may succeed in improving standards,
but much could be achieved by voluntary licensing or registration schemes
backed up by incentives to use qualifying firms such as guarantees. This
is more likely to work if backed up for an initial period by government or
local authority funding. In the long run, however, the improvements to
building quality could save public money.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 201-212
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: repair, maintenance, industry development, SMEs, training, licensing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000007
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:201-212
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Book reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 213-215
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000008
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446199700000008
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:213-215
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Erhan Kozan
Author-X-Name-First: Erhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kozan
Title: Book reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-217
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446199700000009
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:2:p:215-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Hill
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Hill
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Title: Sustainable construction: principles and a framework for attainment
Abstract:
The evolution of the concept of sustainable development is used as a
basis for advancing understanding of sustainable construction. Principles
of sustainable construction are developed and divided into four 'pillars'
- social, economic, biophysical and technical - with a set of
over-arching, process-oriented principles, to be used as a checklist in
practice. A multi-stage framework is proposed which requires the
application of Environmental Assessment and Environmental Management
Systems for construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 223-239
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Sustainable, Development, Environment, Assessment, Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372971
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:223-239
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Wall
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Wall
Title: Distributions and correlations in Monte Carlo simulation
Abstract:
The use of Monte Carlo simulation in construction cost analysis is of
interest to construction professionals as part of the risk analysis of
construction projects. In recent high profile publications the
presentation of Monte Carlo simulation based cost analysis overplays the
importance of the choice of which distribution to use to represent input
variables and underplays the importance of assessing and including
correlations between the variables. The British literature also overplays
the suitability of the beta distribution to represent input variables.
This paper addresses these issues using a data set comprising elemental
rates from 216 office buildings drawn from the BCIS of the RICS. Using a
chi-squared test for goodness of fit it is shown that lognormal
distributions are superior to beta distributions in representing the data
set. Simulation runs of the cost model including and excluding
correlations show that correlations must be included in Monte Carlo
simulation otherwise the analysis leads to serious misassessment of risk.
Simulation results show also that the effect of excluding correlations is
more profound than the effect of the choice between lognormal and beta
distributions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 241-258
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Monte Carlo Simulation, Distributions, Correlation, Interdependence, Cost Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372980
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:241-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. H. Nam
Author-X-Name-First: C. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nam
Author-Name: C. B. Tatum
Author-X-Name-First: C. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tatum
Title: Leaders and champions for construction innovation
Abstract:
Based on empirical studies of the role of key individuals in the
processes of ten successful innovations in the US construction industry,
this paper makes three principal arguments. First, effective leadership is
essential for technological innovation - in particular in construction.
Second, technological competence is an utmost prerequisite for effective
leadership for construction innovation - regardless of the size of the
firm. In other words, an entrepreneurial role as a technical champion in a
small firm does not change even as the firm grows. Lastly, the role of
technical champion can be delegated only with slack resources and adequate
power. This paper also highlights conclusions and practical applications
to increase technological innovation in design and construction firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-270
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Innovation, Leadership, Technology, Entrepreneurship,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372999
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372999
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:259-270
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chimay Anumba
Author-X-Name-First: Chimay
Author-X-Name-Last: Anumba
Author-Name: Nosa Evbuomwan
Author-X-Name-First: Nosa
Author-X-Name-Last: Evbuomwan
Title: Concurrent engineering in design-build projects
Abstract:
The design and build procurement route has witnessed significant growth
in the UK construction industry over the last ten years. It is now being
used for both private and public sector projects of varying complexity.
There are several advantages associated with this method of construction
procurement including shortening of lead times, involvement of the
contractor in the design process, greater price certainty, improved
communication and reduced construction time amongst others. Conversely,
there are also a number of disadvantages ascribed to the design and build
method of procurement. Some of these include reduced design quality,
inhibition of changes by clients, and high tendering costs. A new process
model is proposed to address many of the procurement route's present
shortcomings. In particular, the model facilitates concurrent project
development in the design and build process through the integration of all
project participants into a multi-functional matrix team capable of
resolving potential 'downstream' problems early in the project life-cycle,
and the provision of a formal mechanism for the improved abstraction of
client requirements based on design function deployment (DFD)- a
concurrent engineering design system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 271-281
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Design And Build, Concurrent Engineering, Process Modelling, Client Requirements,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373006
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:271-281
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jean Jinghan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jean Jinghan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: David Wills
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Wills
Title: Development of urban housing policies in China
Abstract:
Housing in China has proved problematic for many years. Since economic
reform started in the 1980s, urbanization has been a token of
modernization, and consequently housing provision in urban areas has been
a major social and economic issue. The major housing problem in China is
the scarcity of supply of housing provision. This paper analyses the
initial housing reform prior to 1993, and points out the reasons for the
lack of success and the lessons drawn from it. It also studies the present
reform programme from 1993, and highlights the problems associated with
it. It shows that the housing reforms so far, while having moved away from
a complete socialist provision of housing, have gone only a small part of
the way to a free market in housing. The reforms have been proved
disappointing. Although privatization of housing has been the major
objective of housing reforms, the reforms are still focused on the rental
sector. On the economics side, the rents are set below costs, and the link
between the value that people place on housing and the cost to the
country's economy has failed to be appreciated. On the management side,
the critical shortcoming of the strategy is its inability to bring an end
to the state-owned enterprise's direct obligations for employee housing.
Several problems associated with the current reforms have also been
identified, especially on the legal side.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 283-290
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: China, Economic Reform, Urban Housing, Privatization, State-owned Enterprise,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373015
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997373015
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:283-290
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Author-Name: Denny McGeorge
Author-X-Name-First: Denny
Author-X-Name-Last: McGeorge
Author-Name: Megan Walters
Author-X-Name-First: Megan
Author-X-Name-Last: Walters
Title: Breaking up methodological monopolies: a multi-paradigm approach to construction management research
Abstract:
A note written in response to: Seymour D. and Rooke, J. (1995). The
culture of the industry and the culture research. Construction Management
and Economics 13, 511-523.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 291-297
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373024
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:291-297
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Title: The role of theory in construction management research: comment
Abstract:
Seymour et al. claim that positivist research methods are unsuitable for
research into construction management. On the contrary, mainstream
methodology has been modified to deal with the special demands of such
research and conventional research methods have been instrumental in
substantial advances in science. Seymour et al.'s argument, ostensibly
about research methods, is essentially anti-scientific, and, although it
has been around for a long time, there are no positive achievements to
suggest that we would benefit from adopting it. Contrary to Seymour et
al.'s claims, positivist research methods are our best insurance against
bad research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 299-302
Issue: 3
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Research Methods, Methodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997373033
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:3:p:299-302
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: G. Bowles
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowles
Author-Name: J. S. Dagpunar
Author-X-Name-First: J. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dagpunar
Author-Name: H. Gow
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gow
Title: Financial management of planned maintenance for housing associations
Abstract:
Since the Housing Act 1988, UK housing associations (HAs) have been
responsible, with the removal of government grants, for funding all
maintenance necessary for the upkeep of new stock over its lifespan.
Sinking funds (SFs) have to be created, out of rental income, that are
adequate to finance the long term projected maintenance demand. This paper
reviews the use of SFs for building asset management with particular
reference to the requirements being made of HAs. Current assumptions of
what constitutes an adequate level of SF investment by their funding
agencies are questioned with an analysis of case study data. Using
linear-programming, the benefits of modelling an SF over merely
calculating it are demonstrated. The technique is used to formulate SF
strategies, some of which admit the possibility of going into deficit in
the future, and these are compared with results from conventional SF
projections. Finally, the effect that varying element and component
lifespans can have on SF projections are investigated by using Monte Carlo
methods to simulate profiles of long term maintenance expenditure, and
observing how well funds projected with the original SF strategy match
them. The results show the importance of reviewing regularly the SF policy
in order that it remains relevant to the needs of the stock.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-326
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Housing Associations, Maintenance, Sinking Funds, Linear Programming, Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372872
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:315-326
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zedan Hatush
Author-X-Name-First: Zedan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hatush
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Assessment and evaluation of contractor data against client goals using PERT approach
Abstract:
A methodology for assessing and evaluating contractor data for the
purpose of prequalification and bid evaluation is presented. The PERT
approach is used to develop a linear model for the assessment of
contractor data. The model incorporates a multiple ratings permitting the
uncertainty in contractor data to be evaluated. An empirical study
investigating the importance of different contractor criteria is
described. A lexicographical ordering with aspiration levels and risk
analysis with sensitivity methods are used to evaluate and select or
rank-order contractors against the main client goals of time, cost, and
quality. A literature review is reported regarding client goals and
current evaluation strategies. The assumptions, advantages and
disadvantages of this work as well as an example are also presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 327-340
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Prequalification, Bid Evaluation, Pert, Criteria, Client Goals, Contractor, Data,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372881
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:327-340
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Author-Name: J. D. Headley
Author-X-Name-First: J. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Headley
Title: Using a weighted score model as an aid to selecting procurement methods for small building works
Abstract:
This paper focuses on the selection of procurement methods for small
building works. While a range of procurement methods is needed to
accommodate different types of small works, and procurement methods often
are applied across different types, for any particular small works job (or
group of jobs), there should be an optimum method of procurement. An
optimum method is one that not only considers the characteristics of the
small works in themselves, but also considers the impact of the works upon
the wider organization and its business operations. In doing so, the small
works organization is assisted to deliver an efficient effective service
which adds value to the client organization. The client, to be in a
position to select the method of procurement that best meets a particular
type of works, needs to consider the realistic measure of performance of
each of the procurement methods which it could employ. This paper proposes
the use of a weighted score model as an aid to selecting procurement
methods for small building works. From this paper, client organizations
should become more aware of the potential to select, with reliability and
consistency over time, the optimum procurement method for a particular
type of small works, given those criteria which they identify as being
important at the time and in consideration of not only the characteristics
of the small works themselves, but the works in the context of the
organization's ongoing business.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 341-348
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Small Building Works, Procurement Methods, Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372890
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:341-348
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Punwani
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Punwani
Title: A study of the growth-investment-financing nexus of the major UK construction groups
Abstract:
This paper compares the relationship between growth, investment and
financing of the contracting operations with that of the housebuilding
operations in the large, diversified UK construction groups during the
1980s. A graphical presentation of a financial analysis of the contracting
and housebuilding divisions' company accounts illustrates significant
changes in the levels of capital investment and the sources and uses of
finance of these two activities during a period of marked growth in
turnover. It is established that the major contractors not only achieved
significant growth in their turnover with negligible recourse to
additional capital investment but in fact generated surplus funds which
could be diverted into other businesses in their respective construction
group's portfolio of business activities. It is shown that their
'cash-requiring' speculative housebuilding businesses relied on such
intra-group funds as a main source of finance for investment in land
during the 1980s.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 349-361
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Construction Majors, Growth, Investment, Intra-group Financing, Contracting, Housebuilding,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372908
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:349-361
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. Bajaj
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bajaj
Author-Name: J. Oluwoye
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Oluwoye
Author-Name: D. Lenard
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lenard
Title: An analysis of contractors' approaches to risk identification in New South Wales, Australia
Abstract:
This study addresses the process of risk identification at the tendering
and estimating stage, which is the first stage of the risk management
process, and for the risk management process be of benefit and for the
project objectives to be achieved, the risk identification stage should be
very detailed and thorough. The aim of this study is to identify,
investigate and evaluate the process of risk identification at the
tendering and estimating stage for construction contractors in the NSW
region. The data for this were collected during the months of December '94
and January '95 using a sample survey of a cross-section of 19
construction contractors, and the results were analysed using frequency
distribution. The results show that the most frequently used methods of
risk identification are the top-down approach techniques, where the
project is analysed from an overall point of view. Techniques based on
top-down approach lead to guesswork in terms of contingency for risks
accepted by the construction contractors. Bottom-up risk identification
techniques are not popular except for a questionnaire and check-list
approach. Also, it was unlikely that the contractors would discuss risk
allocation with the clients. All the contractors interviewed agreed that
when a risk identification process is followed it improves the accuracy of
their estimates.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-369
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Risk Identification, Estimating, Tendering, Contractor,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372917
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:363-369
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Tse
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Tse
Author-Name: Sivaguru Ganesan
Author-X-Name-First: Sivaguru
Author-X-Name-Last: Ganesan
Title: Causal relationship between construction flows and GDP: evidence from Hong Kong
Abstract:
Granger causality methodology is used to investigate lead-lag
relationships between construction activity and aggregate economy. Using
data from Hong Kong, the results of this paper suggest strongly that the
GDP tends to lead the construction flow not vice versa. Our finding is
contrary to the view that construction is more volatile than the GDP.
However, our results show that the construction volatility after 1990 is
smaller than that in the period 1983-1989, a result that is particularly
important for policymakers in that it is the macroeconomic policy of
government that affects output, and influences the construction activity,
and not vice versa.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 371-376
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Unit Root Test, Causality, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372926
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:371-376
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anthony Songer
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Songer
Author-Name: James Diekmann
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Diekmann
Author-Name: Roger Pecsok
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Pecsok
Title: Risk analysis for revenue dependent infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Recent trends in the construction industry indicate continued use of
alternative procurement methods such as design-build, construction
management, build-operate-transfer, and privatization. Increased use of
these evolving methods produces higher levels of uncertainty with respect
to long term performance and profitability. The uncertainties inherent in
implementing new procurement methods necessitate investigation of enhanced
methods of pre-project planning and analysis. This is particularly true
for revenue dependent privatization projects such as toll roads. Poor
initial performance of toll road projects suggests traditional methods of
project analysis are inadequate. Sustaining investor and stakeholder
support of privatized revenue dependent projects is dependent upon
successful financial performance. Enhanced risk analysis tools provide
improved information for pre-project decision making and performance
outcome. One such risk analysis method is the Monte Carlo. Monte Carlo
methods are especially useful in evaluating which of several uncertain
quantities most significantly contributes to the overall risk of the
project. This paper demonstrates a Monte Carlo risk assessment methodology
for revenue dependent infrastructure projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 377-382
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Project Finance, Monte Carlo, Privatization, Risk Analysis, Computer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372935
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:377-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Fenn
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fenn
Title: Rigour in research and peer review
Abstract:
This note discusses rigour in research and in the peer review of academic
journals by examining current research into construction conflict and
disputes. Comments are made on a paper by Alkass, S., Mazerolle, M. and
Harris, F.C. (1996) Construction Management and Economics, 14, 375-394.
The paucity of research in this field is discussed and the current
literature is reviewed. The note concludes that: more work is required in
this area; the lack of data is no excuse for subjective theorizing; basic
rules of research must be complied with for research to retain its
integrity; and the value of peer reviewed journals is reduced by the
publication of papers which ignore these points.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-385
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Conflict, Disputes, Causation, Methodology, Research Rigour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372944
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:383-385
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chau Kwong Wing
Author-X-Name-First: Chau Kwong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wing
Title: The ranking of construction management journals
Abstract:
The quality of construction management journals is assessed using a
questionnaire survey approach. Construction management is broadly defined
to include studies of the human aspects of the construction process.
Twenty-two journals related to construction management are identified.
Questionnaires were sent to potential respondents by e-mail. Respondents
were asked to assess the quality of the journals that they are familiar
with. Although there is some evidence showing that respondents who are
editorial board members or authors of a journal tend to give a slightly
higher score to that journal, the relative ranking of the journals is not
affected substantially by such tendency. Some statistically significant
results on the ranking of the journals are obtained irrespective of the
relatively small sample size compared with some surveys of other main
stream journals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-398
Issue: 4
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Attitude Survey, Journals, Academic Discipline, Construction Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:4:p:387-398
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sunkuk Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Sunkuk
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Title: Organization and managerial environment of the Korean construction industry
Abstract:
In 1983, Korean construction contractors captured over 11% of the
overseas market and twenty-five of them were listed in the top 250
international contractors. However, they have struggled against the
inefficiency of their organizations, accelerating competition, and the
rapid changes in the managerial environment. Although the various features
of the environment had required variety in strategy and organization
structure, the managers of construction firms have not kept pace with the
requirement, but have shown an inability to predict what kind of influence
the changes will have on their organizations and what kind of response is
proper to the environmental changes they confront. These problems are
mainly caused by a lack of understanding of the suitability of their
organization's structure and managerial environment. The present research
shows that: the functional structure is the archetype of the Korean
construction organizations; direction and delegation are the mainstream in
corporate management; the critical factors for corporate management are
accelerating competition, inconsistent government policy and the pressure
of rising costs; and most of the contractors, except the top 5%
large-sized firms, have little capability to respond to a new environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-419
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Korean Construction Industry, Organization Structure, Organizational Life Cycle, Managerial Environment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372782
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:409-419
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lu Youjie
Author-X-Name-First: Lu
Author-X-Name-Last: Youjie
Author-Name: Zhang Qiang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhang
Author-X-Name-Last: Qiang
Title: Building economics research in the People's Republic of China: a review
Abstract:
Research in China into building economics is currently focused on the
transition from a centrally planned economy to a market economy.
Particular attention is being paid to the theoretical and practical issues
arising from the economic reforms. Outside China, there is little known
about the various organizations and individuals involved in this field.
Their work is funded through the Ministry of Construction and the China
National Science Foundation. It is difficult to get commercial sponsorship
for this kind of research. Research has focused upon such issues as the
role of the construction industry in the national economy, the use of
competitive tendering, price formation, urban housing, structuring of the
industry and of firms, project management, expert systems and management
information systems. There have been some notable successes in terms of
building economics researchers influencing the way in which the
construction industry is dealt with in China. Future research will be
aimed at converting state enterprises to true companies and devising the
means to deregulate the pricing of built facilities and construction
services without disrupting the market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 421-428
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: China, Economic Reform, Research Funding, Development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372791
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372791
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:421-428
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ronie Navon
Author-X-Name-First: Ronie
Author-X-Name-Last: Navon
Author-Name: Hillel Arkin
Author-X-Name-First: Hillel
Author-X-Name-Last: Arkin
Author-Name: Isaac Burg
Author-X-Name-First: Isaac
Author-X-Name-Last: Burg
Title: Economic evaluation of HVAC systems with ice storage designed using an optimization technique
Abstract:
Thermal energy storage (TES) is recognized as an important technique for
energy management in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)
systems. This paper discusses the economic aspects of the optimal design
for such systems. The model for optimal design so determines the sizes of
the main components of the system - namely the chiller and the storage
tank - that the system's life cycle cost is minimal. The model is based on
linear programming and is implemented in a computer program for HVAC
systems with ice storage. This paper demonstrates that the optimal sizes
of chiller and storage tanks differ from those selected using traditional
techniques. It emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of the optimally designed
system and also includes a sensitivity analysis pertaining to the economic
feasibility of such systems under different economic conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 429-439
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Economic Analysis, Hvac Systems, Ice Storage, Design, Optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372809
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372809
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:429-439
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Barkham
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Barkham
Title: The financial structure and ethos of property companies: an empirical analysis
Abstract:
Property companies are a key group in the economy of the built
environment. The entrepreneurs that run property companies are responsible
for initiating development projects and managing them. The risk incurred
by participants in the development process, such as banks and construction
firms, is related not only to the risk of the project being undertaken but
also to the financial risk associated with the property company that
initiates and manages the project. This paper attempts to develop a
taxonomy of property companies, for consideration by decision makers in
the construction industry in assessing the risk of being involved in a
project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 441-456
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Property, Trading, Investment, Development, Gearing, Bank, Contractor, Cycle,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372818
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372818
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:441-456
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Irtishad Ahmad
Author-X-Name-First: Irtishad
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmad
Author-Name: Maung Sein
Author-X-Name-First: Maung
Author-X-Name-Last: Sein
Title: Construction project teams for TQM: a factor-element impact model
Abstract:
The factor-element impact model is a normative, theory-based contingency
model. It is concerned with identifying the factors that affect the
success of total quality management (TQM) initiatives in construction
projects. This model is based upon organizational theory, utilizing an
interactionist view of organizational design. If TQM is to succeed,
construction project teams should be formed with its implementation in
mind. The most important factors influencing the success of particular
project team configurations are project characteristics. Organizational
characteristics of participating firms are also significant. The
contingency model developed in this paper involves an iterative approach
of designing construction project teams to minimize negative effects on
TQM. Guidelines are offered on how to apply the model, and two scenarios
are presented to illustrate its application.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 457-467
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Project Team, Organization Theory, Total Quality Management Tqm, Normative Models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372827
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372827
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:457-467
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: The effect of contract type and size on competitiveness in bidding
Abstract:
Multiple regression is used to construct a prediction equation relating
bidder competitiveness (the dependent variable) to the independent
variables of bidder, contract type and contract size. The regression model
shows that differences in contractor competitiveness are greater for
different contract sizes than for different contract types. The most
competitive contractors appear to be those with a preferred contract size
range. Such a model can be used as part of a more systematic approach in
prequalifying contractors. It may also be used by contractors as a basis
for assessing bidding performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 469-489
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Competitiveness, Bidding, Regression Analysis, Contract, Contractor Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372836
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372836
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:469-489
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: D. Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: D. Crook
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Crook
Title: Preserving methodological consistency: a reply to Raftery, McGeorge and Walters
Abstract:
Raftery, J., McGeorge, D. and Walters, M. (1977) Construction Management
and Economics, 15(3), 291-297, criticise Seymour, D.E. and Rooke, J.A.
(1995) Construction Management and Economics 13(6), 511-523 for setting
out battle lines in their use of the terms rationalist and interpretive
paradigms and argue that such dichotomies lead to a degeneration in
research standards. Sharing their concern for research standards, in
reply, we argue that Raftery et al.'s plea for methodological liberalism
will itself undermine standards. Different research methods are required
for different research purposes and are to be evaluated according to
different criteria. These criteria must be made explicit. We state our own
research purposes and make an initial attempt to set out some criteria
against which we would wish our own research to be judged.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 491-494
Issue: 5
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Research Methodology, Research Paradigms, Methodological Debate,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372845
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372845
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:5:p:491-494
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anthony Lavers
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavers
Title: Guest Editorial: Special Issue on Law and Dispute Resolution in Construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 501-504
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372692
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372692
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:501-504
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thomas Stipanowich
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Stipanowich
Title: At the cutting edge: conflict avoidance and resolution in the US construction industry
Abstract:
The American Arbitration Association (AAA) has undertaken a number of
reforms to the dispute resolution process, engendered by the 'quiet
revolution' of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and its impact upon
traditional arbitration mechanisms. This paper appraises the procedural
changes which relate to the three distinct schemes: Fast Track Rules,
Regular Track Rules, and Large Complex Case Rules; it also looks at
parallel progress in mediation and partnering. The author concludes that
the US construction industry has undergone, and continues to undergo, a
transition from private adjudication, such as arbitration, through the
'settlement-oriented interventions' of ADR to more comprehensive
approaches, as exemplified by partnering.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 505-512
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Dispute Resolution, Adr, Arbitration, Us Construction Industry, Aaa Rules, Partnering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372700
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372700
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:505-512
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Fenn
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fenn
Author-Name: David Lowe
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Lowe
Author-Name: Christopher Speck
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Speck
Title: Conflict and dispute in construction
Abstract:
'Conflict' and 'dispute' are two distinct notions. The conceptual
difference between the two is explored and further reviewed through the
literature on conflict and dispute in the field of construction; a
taxonomy for future study is also introduced. Conflict, it is proposed,
exists wherever there is incompatibility of interest, and therefore is
pandemic. Conflict can be managed, possibly to the extent of preventing a
dispute resulting from the conflict. Dispute is associated with distinct
justiciable issues. Disputes require resolution. This means that they can
be managed: the process of dispute resolution lends itself to third party
intervention. The construction industry and the chemical process industry
in the UK are compared, through perceptions and experiences of conflict
and disputes arising from their two sets of standard contract forms. The
methodology is a review of published cases and a survey conducted among
professionals with experience. The paucity of research in this field is
discussed and the empirical work on the causes of conflict and dispute is
reviewed. It is concluded that effective management of conflicts and
disputes would be furthered by separating the two fields, and particularly
by applying a more stringent structuring.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 513-518
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Conflict, Construction, Chemical Industry, Dispute, Standard Contracts, Taxonomy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372719
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372719
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:513-518
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Penny Brooker
Author-X-Name-First: Penny
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooker
Author-Name: Anthony Lavers
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavers
Title: Perceptions of alternative dispute resolution as constraints upon its use in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Attitudes to alternative dispute resolution (ADR) among contractors and
subcontractors/specialists in the UK construction industry are analysed on
the basis of an extensive survey. Positive attitudes contrasted ADR with
litigation and arbitration in terms of cost, delay and damage to working
relationships through confrontation. The study also examined negative
perceptions of ADR which may reduce its appeal and explain its limited use
to date. These include a fear that lawyers may 'colonize' ADR and that its
non-binding quality may prove a deficiency. It is concluded that these
perceptions will be influential in determining the extent to which ADR is
used in construction disputes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-526
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Adr, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Arbitration, Construction Disputes, Dispute Resolution, Litigation, Resolution,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372728
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372728
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:519-526
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. Kennedy
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kennedy
Author-Name: A. Morrison
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Morrison
Author-Name: D. O. Milne
Author-X-Name-First: D. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Milne
Title: Resolution of disputes arising from set-off clauses between main contractors and subcontractors
Abstract:
Set-off relates to the situation where a main contractor raises a
counterclaim against a subcontractor's claim or where an employer raises a
counterclaim against the main contractor. The alternative terms cross
claim, counterclaim, contra charge, compensation and retention are
explained in the context of Scots law. Set-off in the construction
industry in Scotland is then discussed within the contractual frameworks
upon which main contractors are entitled to exercise such rights and how
these conditions of contract have been formed over recent years. A study
reported shows the extent of the use of amended and unamended forms of
subcontract and main contractors' own forms of subcontract which imposed
more onerous set-off conditions than the standard forms, the reasons given
by main contractors for exercising their rights of set-off, the level of
satisfaction amongst subcontractors with the sums set-off against them,
the means by which main contractors and subcontractors settled disputed
set-offs, and subcontractors' reasons for accepting unsatisfactory
instances of set-off. The research was undertaken using a questionnaire to
a stratified sample of subcontractors throughout central Scotland in 1995.
Forty-seven subcontractors responded to the questionnaire and 427
instances of set-off were recorded. The study indicated that, despite the
considerable protection given to subcontractors in the standard forms of
subcontract and in common law, they were prepared to settle set-offs with
which they were dissatisfied without initiating contractual proceedings
which would have improved their situation. It would appear from this study
that subcontractors are reluctant to use their contractual entitlements
either because of fears over the costs of disputing set-offs or because
they fear that they will be denied opportunities to tender for work in the
future. Until there is a culture shift in the industry, reliance on
contractual conditions alone may be inadequate to meet the needs of
subcontractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 527-537
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Adjudication, Conflict, Counterclaim, Set-off, Subcontractors, Disputes,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372737
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:527-537
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Edwin Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Edwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Amicable dispute resolution in the People's Republic of China and its implications for foreign-related construction disputes
Abstract:
A combined mediation/arbitration process is unique to the People's
Republic of China (PRC). This paper looks at how this amicable,
out-of-court dispute resolution system works if the dispute is
foreign-related, as defined under the Foreign Economic Contract Law.
First, it outlines Chinese culture and its relation to the PRC legal
framework and also to the amicable dispute resolution system discussed.
Second, the system is appraised in the context of the uncertainty of the
local judicial system. Third, distinctive features of domestic and
foreign-related dispute resolution mechanisms are discussed by comparison
with international practice. Finally, the amicable dispute resolution
system for resolving construction disputes and its enforcement mechanisms
are analysed, with statistical data to explain their implications for
foreign investors in the construction industry of the PRC.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 539-548
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Adr, Arbitration, Award Enforcement, China, Construction Dispute, Enforcement, Mediation, Foreign Economic Contract Law, People's Republic Of China, Prc,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372746
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372746
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:539-548
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bick
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bick
Title: Statutory reform of aspects of construction law in Australia
Abstract:
Construction contract law in the common law world is largely free of
direct statutory intervention. The agenda of calls within the United
Kingdom to remedy major defects in construction law is used as a framework
in a series of comparisons with recent legislation and practice in
Australia, notably in Victoria where a holistic approach to the industry's
problems has been adopted with signal success. It is suggested that policy
makers in the UK consider what Commonwealth jurisdictions have to offer to
the solution of homegrown problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 549-558
Issue: 6
Volume: 15
Year: 1997
Keywords: Australia, Consumer Protection, Construction Law, Housing Grants, Construction And Regeneration Act 1996, Latham, Post-construction Liability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461997372755
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461997372755
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:15:y:1997:i:6:p:549-558
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ching-Hwang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ching-Hwang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yu-Chun Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Chun
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Controlling activity interval times in LOB scheduling
Abstract:
A new scheduling method is presented in this paper which overcomes the
inability of the line of balance (LOB) method to control the interval
times between adjacent activities in a repetitive construction unit. The
interval times are analysed and then expressed as functions of the number
of repetitive construction units, the difference between construction
times of adjacent activities and the sequence of repetitive construction
units. In order to overcome the LOB problem, this paper presents a new
scheduling method, the multistage linear scheduling (MLS) method, based on
the concept of a multistage decision process. With the MLS method, the
project's completion time is smaller or equal to that estimated with the
LOB method. The sum of construction times of each activity in all units is
the same as that estimated with the LOB method. However, no interval times
are generated. The adjacent activities in a repetitive construction unit
can progress continuously (not allowed under the LOB method). Therefore,
the MLS method can be used to schedule a repetitive project which has
necessary practical constraints on the interval times. This results in the
retention of construction quality, safety and efficiency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-16
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Repetitive Project, Interval Time, Scheduling, Multistage Linear Scheduling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372547
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372547
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:5-16
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: Daniel Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Contributors to construction delays
Abstract:
Projects can be delayed for a large number of reasons. The third phase of
an investigation into such factors focused on the causes of construction
delays in Hong Kong. A questionnaire was based on 83 factors identified in
previous phases of the investigation. Analysis of the responses reveals
differences in perceptions of the relative significance of factors between
clients, consultants and contractors. There was general agreement about
the relative importance of delay factors such as unforeseen ground
conditions. Improving productivity is a useful approach to controlling
delays. Important factors affecting productivity itself are thus examined
in more depth, with a view to enhancing productivity and reducing delays.
The conclusions of this phase of the investigation include a ranking of
factors and factor categories that are perceived by different groups of
project participants to contribute to delays. For example, higher-ranking
factors, such as unforeseen ground conditions, and factor categories such
as project-related factors, are found to merit special management
attention in countering construction delays. The high degree of
disagreement as discerned between the groups of clients, consultants and
contractors is indicative of their experiences, possible prejudices and
lack of effective communication. It is also confirmed that productivity
and other non-scope factors such as effective communications should
supplement the project scope factors incorporated into the construction
time prediction models that were proposed in the previous phases of this
investigation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 17-29
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Productivity, Project Management, Delay, Time, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372556
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372556
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:17-29
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Malik Ranasinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Malik
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranasinghe
Title: Risk management in the insurance industry: insights for the engineering construction industry
Abstract:
A probabilistic framework is developed to analyse a risk management
approach adopted by an insurance firm. The analysis shows that when the
insurance firm classifies a client as 'superior' and 'most acceptable',
the probability of the insurer having to pay out on those claims is
negligible. Even for a policy that is classified as 'acceptable', the
highest probability of a claim is only 12%. When the probability of a
claim is over 50%, the client is considered to be 'unacceptable' for an
insurance policy. Based on that analysis, the insights that the
engineering construction industry can gain from risk management in the
insurance firm with respect to project duration and cost are highlighted.
It is shown that, in responding to risks and uncertainty, the engineering
construction industry should not allocate contingency at a predetermined
probability of success for global variables such as project cost or
duration as suggested in the literature, but at the input level. It is
suggested that the predetermined probability of success value to allocate
contingency at the input level should be at least 70%. Then, the
contingency available for project cost and duration can ensure a high
probability of success in the completion of the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 31-39
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Risk Management, Insurance, Engineering Construction, Target Cost, Contingency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372565
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372565
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:31-39
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Title: Estimating project and activity duration: a risk management approach using network analysis
Abstract:
Variations in the durations of activities are commonplace in the
construction industry. This is due to the fact that the construction
industry is influenced greatly by variations in weather, productivity of
labour and plant, and quality of materials. Stochastic network analysis
has been used by previous researchers to model variations in activities
and produce more effective and reliable project duration estimates. A
number of techniques have been developed in previous literature to solve
the uncertain nature of networks, these are: PERT (program evaluation and
review techniques), PNET (probabilistic network evaluation technique),
NRB, (narrow reliability bounds methods) and MCS (Monte Carlo simulation).
Although these techniques have proved to be useful in modelling variations
in activities, dependence of activity duration is not considered. This can
have a severe impact on realistically modelling projects. In this context,
the objective of the present research is to develop a methodology that can
accurately model activity dependence and realistically predict project
duration using a risk management approach. A simulation model has been
developed to encapsulate the methodology and run experimental work. In
order to achieve this, the following tasks are tackled: identify risk
factors that cause activity variations using literature reviews and
conducting interviews with contractors; model risk factors and their
influence on activity variations through conducting case studies and
identifying any dependence between them; develop a computer based
simulation model that uses a modified Monte Carlo technique to model
activity duration and dependence of risk factors; and run experimental
work to validate and verify the model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 41-48
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Network Analysis, Monte Carlo Simulation, Pert, Stochastic Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372574
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372574
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:41-48
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Ivan Fung
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fung
Title: Effectiveness of safety management strategies on safety performance in Hong Kong
Abstract:
This research describes a study of safety attitudes, practices and
characteristics of construction firms in Hong Kong and their relationship
to safety performance on construction sites. Forty-five construction
companies are compared and studied. Each adopts different safety
management strategies. The 45 companies were composed of 11 small, 25
medium and 9 large-scale construction firms. Construction firms' safety
performance is measured by site casualty rates. Based upon the information
collected from the survey, the accident rates are first derived and
compared with the industrial norms. Then the following safety measures,
and strategies of contractors in Hong Kong and their associated safety
performance, are compared: involvement of top management in safety
management; safety orientation programmes for new workers; safety awards
or incentive schemes; use of post-accident investigation systems; safety
training schemes; safety committees; level of subcontracting. The first
part of the research studies the relation between these measures and the
safety performance using a number of tables. The results show that these
practices have indeed improved site safety. The second part uses a
multiple regression analysis to study the combined effect of these schemes
and practices on safety performance. The study concludes that the
provision of safety training, the use of directly employed labour, the use
of post-accident investigation as a feedback, and promoting safety
practices by safety award campaigns and incentive schemes, are the most
effective tool in mitigating site casualties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 49-55
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Safety, Training, Subcontracting, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372583
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372583
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:49-55
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Brandon
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Brandon
Author-Name: Francisco Loforte Ribeiro
Author-X-Name-First: Francisco Loforte
Author-X-Name-Last: Ribeiro
Title: A knowledge-based system for assessing applications for house renovation grants
Abstract:
This research is concerned with the development of a knowledge-based
expert system for supporting human experts in assessing applications for
the house renovation grant system. The development of the system followed
the task structure analysis and the client-centred approach. The task
structure analysis describes the system at knowledge level in terms of
tasks, problem-solving methods and knowledge types. The implementation of
the system followed the client-centred approach. The resulting system
implements a framework that integrates case-based reasoning, abductive
assembly, decomposition and associative methods. In addition, this
framework combines different types of knowledge, which are required by the
problem-solving methods. The implementation was carried out together with
verification and validation, making it possible to have the system more
valid after each stage of the client-centred approach. The system has
demonstrated that various problem-solving methods are required for
performing the different tasks of the assessment of application for the
house renovation grant system. Therefore the system has proved to perform
as accurately as human experts do for all of the tasks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 57-69
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Case-based Reasoning, Housing, Knowledge-based Expert Systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372592
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:57-69
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bruce Mcdonald
Author-X-Name-First: Bruce
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcdonald
Author-Name: Mark Smithers
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Smithers
Title: Implementing a waste management plan during the construction phase of a project: a case study
Abstract:
The construction industry in Australia contributes approximately 15%, by
volume, of all solid waste disposed in landfills each year. Similar
volumes have been recorded in other countries. The Australian government,
in common with many other countries, has legislation in place to reduce
landfill requirements by 50% by the year 2000. As part of this programme
an Australian division of a multinational construction company has
developed a company policy with the aim of managing waste generated on
site and, thereby, reducing the amount deposited in landfill sites. The
programme has been supported by the Victorian Recycling and Resource
Recovery Council. The first implementation of this policy was at the
Dandenong Police and Court Complex in Melbourne. The effects of the
programme have been compared against a similar project built concurrently.
The results of the trial revealed substantial savings. A total volume of
15% less waste was generated on site prior to recycling and 43% less waste
went to landfill. Cost savings of 50% were made in terms of waste handling
charges. The savings resulted almost entirely from site based strategies
for handling waste.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 71-78
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Recycling, Waste, Audit, Landfill,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372600
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:71-78
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Noyce
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Noyce
Author-Name: Awad Hanna
Author-X-Name-First: Awad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanna
Title: Planned and unplanned schedule compression: the impact on labour
Abstract:
Constructors confronted with the need to compress or accelerate a
construction schedule face the potential for extreme difficulties.
Unfortunately, a limited knowledge base exists for determining the
techniques, methods, or concepts to be employed in mitigating these
potential negative outcomes of lower labour productivity rates and higher
project costs. This paper explores the impacts of planned and unplanned
schedule compression on labour productivity. Additional impacts of
schedule compression related to project costs and schedule duration are
also evaluated. Telephone interviews and questionnaire surveys primarily
were used as the means for data collection to determine which methods of
schedule compression identified are most effective in each of the
aforementioned areas. Members of the National Electrical Contractors
Association (NECA) were used as the data source for this investigation
because of their diversified experience and because of the support
received from NECA management. A number of schedule compression methods
are presented that have been shown to be effective.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 79-90
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Planned Schedule Compression, Unplanned Schedule Compression, Schedule Acceleration, Labour, Productivity, Project Costs, Schedule Duration, Electrical Contractor,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372619
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372619
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:79-90
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ezekiel Chinyio
Author-X-Name-First: Ezekiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinyio
Author-Name: Paul Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Author-Name: Simon Kometa
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Kometa
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: A needs-based methodology for classifying construction clients and selecting contractors
Abstract:
Clients' needs are inadequately evaluated in project schemes. Without a
precise establishment of clients' preferences, the essential criteria for
project implementation and especially contractor evaluation cannot be
appreciated fully. It is not surprising therefore that subjective
decisions have prevailed in tender evaluations and clients' needs have not
been satisfied completely. Objective contractor evaluation will be
realized only when clients' needs and contractors' capabilities can be
quantified and matched reliably. The methodology described herein rests on
identifying clients' needs preferences as comprehensively as possible at
project inception and progressing to identifying contractors who can
satisfy them optimally; relying on 'multidimensional scaling' and 'cluster
analysis' techniques. The investigations suggest that clients' project
needs are not along the traditional classifications of private, public and
developer clients; a reclassification of clients into five needs-based
groups is proposed. A new contractor evaluation methodology matching
client satisfaction to attainment of established needs in project schemes
has been developed for bidding purposes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-98
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Classification, Clients, Tender Evaluation, Scaling, Briefing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372628
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372628
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:91-98
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chau Kwong Wing
Author-X-Name-First: Chau Kwong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wing
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Author-Name: Anthony Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: The baby and the bathwater: research methods in construction management
Abstract:
This note is written in response to Seymour, D., Crook, D. and Rooke, J.
(1997) Construction Management and Economics, 15 (1), 117-19. We argue
against their narrow focus on the interpretative approach. Also, Seymour
et al. are incorrect in implying that the 'rationalist approach' is
necessarily quantitative. Our contention is that the choice of research
approach in construction management depends on the nature of the problem.
However, whatever choice of approach is adopted, it is important that the
problem and associated key concepts are defined clearly and that the
methods used, underlying assumptions and limitations are transparent and
defensible. It is difficult to argue in favour of any single approach
based purely on epistemological grounds as what constitutes knowledge is
still an unsolved philosophical issue. Since construction management is a
practical subject, we suggest that the choice of approach should be a
pragmatic one: the approach that is likely to generate practical solutions
should be adopted. Seymour et al.'s suggestion serves only to limit our
choice of research tools. Furthermore, a lot of the research issues in
construction management are practical problems which involve
generalization of experience and formulation of hypothesis that can
generate empirically testable implications. For problems of this nature,
testability of hypothesis and reproducibility of results are important,
and the naturalist approach (which is labelled 'rationalist paradigm' in
Seymour et al.) of discovering causal relationship is more likely to
produce general practical solutions. However, this does not deny the value
of the interpretative approach, as it may be more suitable for certain
types of problem. Moreover, in practice, an understanding of human
behaviour 'from within' often provides useful insights for formulation of
empirically testable hypotheses, despite the philosophical incompatibility
of the interpretative and naturalist approaches.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 99-104
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Epistemology, Interpretative Approach, Research Methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372637
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372637
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:99-104
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Title: Practices, barriers and benefits of risk management process in building services costs estimation: comment
Abstract:
This note is a comment on Mok, C.K., Rao Tummala, V.M. and Leung, H.M.
(1997) Practices, barriers and benefits of risk management process in
building services cost estimation, Construction Management and Economics,
15 (2), 161-75, which describes research into the risk perceptions and
risk management practices of building services engineers in Hong Kong. The
note questions statements made in the paper and parts of the research
design and data analyses.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 105-108
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Risk, Risk Management, Survey Research, Cost Estimating,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372646
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372646
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:105-108
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Darryll Crook
Author-X-Name-First: Darryll
Author-X-Name-Last: Crook
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Title: The role of theory in construction management: reply to Runeson
Abstract:
In his comment on Seymour, D.E., Crook, D.J. and Rooke, J.A. (1997).
Construction Management and Economics, 15, 117-19 (Construction Management
and Economics, 15, 299-302) argues that positivism provides the best
insurance against bad research in construction management studies. He
claims that positivist methods of theory building have been modified
sufficiently to cope with the demands of management research. He accuses
Seymour et al. of being anti-scientific in questioning the viability of
these methods. In this short reply, we refute these assertions, pointing
out some remaining obstacles to the application of positivist methods to
management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-112
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Management Theory, Positivism, Research Paradigms, Research Methodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372655
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372655
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:109-112
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Harriss
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harriss
Title: Why research without theory is not research A reply to Seymour, Crook and Rooke
Abstract:
Construction management researchers have for too long ignored the
centrality of theory to human activity. A simple analogy from everyday
life, the quest for a suitable life partner, will demonstrate that all
productive action depends on theory if it is to be shared and form a
worthwhile addition to the body of knowledge. This analogy provides a
useful introduction to the philosophy of science, and a criticism of those
who propose a non-scientific approach to construction management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-116
Issue: 1
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Philosophy Of Science, Scientific Paradigms,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372664
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372664
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:1:p:113-116
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Author-Name: L. E. Clausen
Author-X-Name-First: L. E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Clausen
Author-Name: R. Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: G. Norman
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Norman
Author-Name: D. Notman
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Notman
Title: The role of logistics in the materials flow control process
Abstract:
Frequently, the supply of building materials to the construction site is
fraught with difficulties which can have a significant effect on
productivity. Major productivity gains are possible, particularly if the
building process is planned from a logistics perspective. The concept of
logistics was developed initially within the manufacturing industry, and
now constitutes an important management tool to ensure an overall
strategic perspective on the flow of materials in the production process.
This paper contends that logistics are relevant also to the construction
industry, and describes the development of a logistics model to manage the
flow of materials from suppliers to installation on-site and its
application to a Danish house building project. The case study evidence
suggests that the primary focus of the logistics concept in construction
is to improve coordination and communication between project participants
during the design and construction phases, particularly in the materials
flow control process. The logistics concept requires accurate scheduling
of materials to programmed delivery dates keyed to actual site layout and
storage arrangements. The logistics approach also involves a new role for
materials suppliers, including early involvement in the design phase and
overall responsibility for the flow of information relating to materials.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-137
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Logistics, Materials Flow Control, House Building, Denmark,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372420
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372420
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:131-137
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sabah Alkass
Author-X-Name-First: Sabah
Author-X-Name-Last: Alkass
Author-Name: Mark Mazerolle
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Mazerolle
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: Rigour in research and peer-review: a reply
Abstract:
Discussion and constructive criticism of research work when based on
facts and sound scientific arguments are good practice which not only
enrich research work but potentially improve the findings. For these
reasons, they should be encouraged. However, when discussions are put
forward out of ignorance for the sake of criticism to attack the integrity
of some particular research, and to that matter the integrity of its
researchers and the reviewers ability to judge researchers contribution,
then it not only becomes dangerous but is on the verge of being
irresponsible. This should not go unchallenged. This note addresses the
issues brought forth in (Fenn, P. (1997) Construction Management and
Economics, 15 (4), 383-385.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 139-140
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Research In Delay Analysis, Project Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372439
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372439
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:139-140
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Sustainable construction: principles and a framework for attainment - comment
Abstract:
Hill, R.C. and Bowen, P. (1997) Construction Management and Economics,
15, 223-239 discuss the evolution of the concepts of 'environmentalism'
and 'sustainability', highlighting their importance in today's context.
They relate these concepts, especially the latter, to construction, and
provide a framework for environmental management in the construction
process. This is a comment on the contents of Hill and Bowen, and endorses
their stress on the importance of environmental considerations in the
construction process. The paper suggests that other areas relating to the
subject of sustainability in construction also require attention, and
highlights, in particular, the need to take cognisance of the perspective
of developing countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 141-145
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Sustainable Construction, Management, Developing Countries, Progress,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372448
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:141-145
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ching-Hwang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ching-Hwang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yong-Ho Mei
Author-X-Name-First: Yong-Ho
Author-X-Name-Last: Mei
Title: Model for forecasting construction cost indices in Taiwan
Abstract:
A new approach to the forecasting of construction cost indices in Taiwan
is presented. Construction cost indices have always been used to assess
the variations in construction labour and material costs. These indices
have been traditionally based on historical statistical information in
Taiwan. However, the indices fall short in forecasting the future cost
trends in the construction industry. By investigating the characteristic
data that make up the construction cost indices, the major determining
factors were identified as (1) 'the number of difference', (2) the
required periods of preceding construction cost indices, (3) the weight
associated with each preceding construction cost index, (4) the mean value
of the series of construction cost indices that have been converted into a
stationary series, and (5) the estimation of the errors between the
predicted values of construction cost indices and the observed values of
construction cost indices. An analytical model has been established to
forecast the present and future construction cost indices based on these
factors, and its feasibility tested by using the observed data of the
construction cost indices obtained from the Executive Yuan of the Republic
of China. The results suggest that this model is reasonably adequate in
forecasting the trend values of construction cost indices in Taiwan.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 147-157
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction Cost Indices, Determining Factors, Forecasting, Modelling, Taiwan, Experience,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372457
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:147-157
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Cliff Hardcastle
Author-X-Name-First: Cliff
Author-X-Name-Last: Hardcastle
Title: Macro-economic leading indicators of construction contract prices
Abstract:
An understanding of future trends in construction prices is likely to
influence the construction investment strategy of a variety of interested
parties, ranging from private and public clients to construction
contractors, property speculators, financial institutions, and
construction professionals. This paper derives leading indicators for
construction prices in the United Kingdom. These indicators are based on
two experimental methods: turning points of the basic indicators in
relation to construction price turning points; and predictive power of
lags of the basic indicators. It is concluded, based on the analyses, that
unemployment level, construction output, industrial production, and ratio
of price to cost indices in manufacturing are consistent leading
indicators of construction prices. Building cost index and gross national
product constitute coincident indicators. 'Popular' macro-economic time
series such as nominal interest rate, inflation rate, real interest rate,
all share index and money supply produced inconclusive results.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 159-175
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Price, Tender Price Index, Forecasting, Leading Indicator, Time Series, Analysis, Macro-economic, Variables,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372466
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372466
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:159-175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mazin Shammas-Toma
Author-X-Name-First: Mazin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shammas-Toma
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Leslie Clark
Author-X-Name-First: Leslie
Author-X-Name-Last: Clark
Title: Obstacles to implementing total quality management in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Since at least the Tavistock studies, the need to improve communication
and coordination in the construction process has been stressed. This paper
reports from a study of 25 construction projects where QA and a number of
procedures were in use which might have been expected to bring such
improvement. The finding was, however, that coordination was poor. The
purpose of the paper is to consider how this finding is to be explained.
With reference to the markets/hierarchy theoretical framework, it is
proposed that the use of this and other similar frameworks in fact
obscures the empirical reality which they are intended to explain. It is
accepted that the meta-language which such frameworks supply may enable
researchers and those practitioners who choose to use this language to
share their interests and concerns. However, the relationship between the
abstract and global concepts which feature in such talk and the reality to
which they refer needs closer enquiry. This paper proposes that our
knowledge of the impact of QA has been compromised by the lack of such
attention. The paper then inspects the global proposition that QA has been
a step in the right direction towards TQM. With the aim of giving this
proposition a stronger empirical referent, six key principles of TQM are
used as a benchmark against which to assess the significance of the
empirical data drawn from the study. It is proposed that greater attention
to such data is necessary to provide a sounder basis for establishing what
needs to be done to stimulate change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 177-192
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Lean Construction, Continuous Improvement, Concurrent Engineering, Process Re-engineering, Markets-hierarchies, Contractual Controls, Subcontracting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372475
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372475
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:177-192
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Author-Name: Aalia Usmani
Author-X-Name-First: Aalia
Author-X-Name-Last: Usmani
Author-Name: Andrew Edkins
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Edkins
Title: Towards total project quality: a gap analysis approach
Abstract:
This paper presents a critique of existing approaches to the management
of projects and the definition of project success, arguing that these are
both fragmented and fail to place the client at the centre of the process.
In this critique, the paper focuses on quality management, and places the
minimization of client surprise at the heart of the assessment of project
success. As an alternative, a gap analysis approach, derived from the
service quality management literature, is developed which, it is argued,
provides a better way of understanding the challenge of managing projects.
The model is then applied empirically to the Glaxo project, the largest
building project in the UK in recent years. The Glaxo project was
remarkably successful, and the lessons can be learned well through the
perspective of the gap analysis model. In conclusion the paper concludes
that quality on construction projects is a negotiated order, and that
design reviews are the principal means by which this order is negotiated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 193-207
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Project Management, Quality Management, Gap Analysis, Client Satisfaction, Glaxo,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372484
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372484
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:193-207
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Anthony Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: Evaluation of project outcomes
Abstract:
The evaluation of the outcome of construction projects has been the
subject of unresolved debate for many years. This paper argues that
previous views have tried to find a simple solution to a complex problem.
The complexities of the issues which underlie the evaluation of project
outcomes are derived from project goals, participants' behaviour and the
performance of project organizations. Earlier studies did not recognize
the manner by which individuals' perceptions of project outcomes were
influenced by the range of factors in each person's perception. A model is
constructed with two levels of outcome developed from the fundamental
behaviour-to-performance-to-outcome (B-P-O) cycle in
industrial/organizational psychology. It is postulated that the valence of
the first-level outcome (project success) is dependent on the
instrumentality relating to the second-level outcome (participant
satisfaction). The identification of factors of influence, such as
self-efficacy, project complexity, commitment, expectancy, rewards, goals
and environmental variables, are shown to be fundamental in understanding
an individual's perception of the merit of the outcome of a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-219
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Evaluation, Performance, Outcome, Success, Satisfaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372493
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372493
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:209-219
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: P. E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: M. Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: G. Earl
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Earl
Title: Selecting a suitable procurement method for a building project
Abstract:
Building procurement has become a fashionable term with industry
practitioners and researchers. It determines the overall framework and
structure of responsibilities and authorities for participants within the
building process. It is a key factor contributing to overall client
satisfaction and project success. The selection of the most suitable
procurement method consequently is critical for both clients and project
participants, and is becoming an important and contemporary issue within
the building industry. The problem, nevertheless, lies in the fact that
there has been limited empirical research in this field of study. Postal
questionnaire surveys of 41 clients and 35 consultants were carried out,
and were used to obtain experience of and attitudes to a variety of
procurement methods and the criteria used for selection. The findings
indicate that a simple set of the criteria generally is adequate and
sufficient for procurement path selection, and that there is a reasonable
consensus on the appropriate weighting for each path. Moreover, it is
shown that, contrary to expectations, similar clients generally do not
have similar procurement needs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 221-233
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Procurement Selection, Criteria Weighting, Client Needs, Utility Rating,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372501
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372501
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:221-233
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Burchett
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Burchett
Author-Name: V.M. Rao Tummala
Author-X-Name-First: V.M. Rao
Author-X-Name-Last: Tummala
Title: The application of the risk management process in capital investment decisions for EHV transmission line projects
Abstract:
This paper reviews the viability of applying a risk management process to
enhance capital investment decisions, when planning the construction of an
extra-high voltage (EHV) overhead transmission line project that could be
designed and built in the next 10 years by China Light & Power Company
Limited, Hong Kong. Different project proposals will be considered for
this transmission line as well as different completion dates. Each
scenario will be investigated to determine the rate of return and expected
cost to customer, using the net present value model. The lowest 'cost to
customer' approach would be the normal criterion for project selection,
assuming all proposals are technically viable and compatible with Hong
Kong Government infrastructure plans.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 235-244
Issue: 2
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Risk Management Process, Capital Investment Decision, Ehv Transmission, Line,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372510
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:2:p:235-244
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ching-Hwang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ching-Hwang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Mei-Wei Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yu-Chun Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Chun
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Hierarchical indices for measuring the effectiveness of construction automation implementation
Abstract:
The construction industry in Taiwan is reaching the turning point of
industry upgrade and is confronted by such problems as slow productivity
growth; increases in labour costs, and awareness of environmental
protection requirements. In addition, Taiwan is vigorously preparing to
join the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Agreement on Government
Procurement will be signed. Then the market of local public works will be
able to be opened. After Taiwan has joined the WTO, local contractors will
no longer enjoy special protection, and will compete with foreign
contractors on equal grounds. To address these problems, Taiwan is
launching the first phase of a construction automation plan (1990-2000),
trying to assist local contractors in boosting their global
competitiveness through automation. This paper establishes a Taiwanese
approach to measuring the overall effectiveness of automation implemented
in the construction industry in Taiwan. With this approach, 30%, 71% and
94% increases in commitment aspects and 15%, 20% and 24% increases in
benefit aspects have been achieved from 1991 to 1993 (taking 1990 as the
base year): significant improvements after the launch of the construction
automation plan. The effectiveness of the commitment aspects, however, is
far greater than that of the benefit aspects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 257-267
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction Automation, Taiwan, World Trade Organization, Effectiveness,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372295
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372295
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:257-267
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kumaru Yogeswaran
Author-X-Name-First: Kumaru
Author-X-Name-Last: Yogeswaran
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: Douglas Miller
Author-X-Name-First: Douglas
Author-X-Name-Last: Miller
Title: Claims for extensions of time in civil engineering projects
Abstract:
This paper focuses on the principles and practices in formulating and
assessing claims for extensions of time due to excusable delays. Typical
frequency and magnitude profiles of claims for extensions of time are
derived from a surveyed sample of 67 civil engineering projects in Hong
Kong, and major categories of claims for extensions of time have been
identified from the data obtained. Recommendations are made to minimize
claims for extensions of time and to achieve more consistent assessments
of the unavoidable claims, for example those relating to inclement
weather.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 283-293
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Time Extension, Delay, Hong Kong, Claims, Civil Engineering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372312
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372312
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:283-293
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Title: From Ptolemy to Heisenberg: quantitative models and reality
Abstract:
An aspect of methodology in research in the field of design economics and
cost modelling is described, discussed and evaluated. This review is
designed for post-graduate students and built-environment professionals
embarking on a PhD in that field. Models, built using methods regarded as
'scientific' at the time, have enabled us to solve specific problems and
to learn more about the world. A generalized approach to building and
testing symbolic models is outlined. In conclusion, a number of
limitations are identified which are inherent in the conventional
quantitative modelling approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 295-302
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Research Methods, Models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372321
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372321
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:295-302
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Donald Jensen
Author-X-Name-First: Donald
Author-X-Name-Last: Jensen
Author-Name: James Craig
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Craig
Title: The impact of TAMRA '88 on US construction accounting practices
Abstract:
This article addresses the accounting process for a long term
construction contract and the effect of recent income tax reform on
revenue recognition for income tax liability purposes. The Tax Reform Act
of 1986 (TRA '86) introduced several significant changes in tax accounting
for long term construction projects. Further tax legislation reform was
promulgated via the Technical and Miscellaneous Revenue Act of 1988 (TAMRA
'88). Prior to the promulgation of these income tax reform acts, a US
contractor could use the percentage-completion method for reporting income
to creditors and investors, while using the completed-contract method for
income tax recognition purposes. After TRA '86 and ending with TAMRA '88
tax legislation, the contractor is now required by law to utilize a 90/10
split for an income recognition schedule if a contract is longer than two
years and the contractor has sales of more than $10 million per year. An
intent of this article is to create an awareness of these rules and
resulting practices, so that international readers may gain a better
understanding of any global implications.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 303-313
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Percentage-completion Method, Completed-contract Method, Long-term Construction Accounting, Accrual Basis Accounting, Technical And Miscellaneous Revenue Act Of 1988;Tamra '88,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372330
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372330
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:303-313
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charles Egbu
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Egbu
Author-Name: Barbara Young
Author-X-Name-First: Barbara
Author-X-Name-Last: Young
Author-Name: Victor Torrance
Author-X-Name-First: Victor
Author-X-Name-Last: Torrance
Title: Planning and control processes and techniques for refurbishment management
Abstract:
Using a case study approach involving four refurbishment projects from
both the construction and shipping industries (hospital, warship, hotel
and passenger ship), 36 semi-structured interviews with key functionaries
from both sectors and 49 completed postal questionnaires, this paper
attempts to shed light on the function of planning and control by
examining the various systems, methods and techniques associated with
refurbishment management in both industries. The conclusion is that there
is a substantially longer planning lead time in the ship refurbishment
sector than in construction. The state of completion of design before
refurbishment work commences is higher in the shipping industry. Site
managers from the ship refurbishment sector are brought into the planning
and control processes earlier than their counterparts from the
construction industry. In both industries, however, schedules and bar
charts are the most frequently used formal planning techniques, in
comparison with computer based techniques such as PERT, GERT and expert
systems; the main reasons being familiarity, the relatively low levels of
skill and knowledge needed to understand them as much as their perceived
flexibility and relative cheapness for their production and updating.
Planning and control involving the management of risks and uncertainty by
improving the quality and timing of relevant information for the works,
and the timely integration of key functionaries in the refurbishment
process, help to improve planning accuracy and effectiveness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-325
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Control, Planning, Refurbishment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372349
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372349
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:315-325
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Bordoli
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Bordoli
Author-Name: Andrew Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Title: A methodology for assessing construction project delays
Abstract:
Different categories of delay and the different types of delay found on
construction projects are identified. Existing methods for assessing the
effect of delaying events are reviewed and the results of an industry
survey presented. None of the commonly recognized methods for delay
analysis allow the assessment of three important issues at the same time:
the progress of the project at the time the delay occurred; the changing
nature of the critical path; and the effects of action taken (or that
should have been taken) to minimize potential delays. A new method of
delay analysis is presented. This method takes into consideration all
these issues, and is a clear, straightforward step-by-step approach to the
calculation of the expected delay in the completion of the project as a
result of delays in activities encountered during the project. It uses a
dynamic model considered by both experts and practitioners to be the best
method to take account of progress and form the basis of delay claims.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 327-337
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Project Delays, Claims, Delay Analysis, Critical Path Methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372358
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372358
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:327-337
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Atkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkinson
Title: Human error in the management of building projects
Abstract:
This paper seeks to improve the understanding of human error as it is
applied to the generation of defects in construction projects. It reviews
the literature concerning human error, commencing at the psychological
basis of errors. From this, the review is expanded to include literature
from forensic engineering, industrial safety, reliability engineering,
sociology and quality management. Based on the literature, a model of the
factors influencing the incidence of errors in project based industries is
constructed. This model proposes that errors leading to defects and more
dramatic failures can be generated from all levels of project
organizations. They stem from primary factors (related to the performance
of the individual), management factors (related to a range of managerial
tasks) and global factors (related to wider external influences). These
factors can be displayed as a hierarchy with primary factors at the base
and global factors at the top. The paper reports on the results of an
initial test of this model by reference to a survey of a sample of
construction industry practitioners. The findings of the survey support
the model, with some modifications. Additionally, some differences in view
were noted: in particular, respondents from a construction background
emphasized managerial factors more strongly than those from a design
background.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 339-349
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Human Error, Defects, Project Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372367
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372367
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:339-349
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: George Norman
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Norman
Author-Name: David Notman
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Notman
Title: The changing role of builders merchants in the construction supply chain
Abstract:
Builders merchants are an integral part of the construction industry, yet
rarely are they consulted when discussions take place on the future of the
construction industry. Throughout history, builders merchants have played
a dominant role in the construction industry, initially as an intermediary
between the artisan and the buyer, and more recently as a source of
working capital for contracting firms. The merchanting industry currently
is undergoing considerable change. The depressed construction market and
the failure of the housing repair and maintenance sector to recover in the
first half of the 1990's as activity in the private non-housing repair and
maintenance sector has increased, has raised competition between
merchants. The major building merchants are becoming larger by acquisition
and merger, the smaller merchants are seeking niche areas, and the
medium-size firms are under serious threat from acquisition by the larger
merchanting firms. The trend towards consolidation in the sector, driven
by the need to reduce costs, has meant that the large merchanting firms
now control around 60% of the building materials market sales. Factoring
is a growing trend, particularly with smaller companies sourcing goods
from the cheapest source. The larger merchants have to respond by sourcing
goods from the lowest cost base, irrespective of whether they buy from
overseas markets. This paper analyses the UK builders merchants sector and
evaluates the important role played in the supply chain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 351-361
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Building Materials, Builders' Merchants, Components;Imports,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372376
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372376
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:351-361
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: William Vidogah
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Vidogah
Author-Name: Issaka Ndekugri
Author-X-Name-First: Issaka
Author-X-Name-Last: Ndekugri
Title: Improving the management of claims on construction contracts: consultant's perspective
Abstract:
There is tremendous scope for improving claims management practice. This
research comprised a postal questionnaire survey of contractors, project
owners' architects, quantity surveyors and engineers, case studies on
actual claims situations on projects, and structured interviews with
consultants and contractors. Although based mainly on consultants' views
although contractors' views are brought in occasionally for corroboration
and clarification. The main findings are that: (i) claims management is
still performed in an ad hoc manner; (ii) contractors' management
information systems are ill designed to support claims; (iii) the products
of basic good management practice, such as diaries, timesheets, and
programmes, often are inadequate in content even if available; and (iv)
some aspects of claims are impossible to quantify with precision even with
the best information available at reasonable cost. Main remedial measures
suggested include: (a) greater emphasis on the quality of claims
management practice and information systems during evaluation of tenders;
(b) agreeing figures usually in contention as terms of contracts; (c)
implementation of electronic document management systems; and (d) stricter
contractual provisions on the quality of programmes, timesheets and
content of claims.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-372
Issue: 3
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Claims Management, Contract, Contractor, Disputes, Project,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372385
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372385
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:3:p:363-372
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Laurence Marsh
Author-X-Name-First: Laurence
Author-X-Name-Last: Marsh
Author-Name: Eddy Finch
Author-X-Name-First: Eddy
Author-X-Name-Last: Finch
Title: Attitudes towards auto-ID technologies within the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Automatic identification (auto-ID) technologies such as bar coding have
become widespread within manufacturing, medicine and retailing. Bar coding
has also attracted many applications within the US construction industry,
providing tangible cost savings through improved speed and accuracy of
data entry. However, over the past decade the rate of adoption of auto-ID
among UK construction firms has been significantly lower than the US. This
paper presents the findings of a UK survey of construction organizations,
designed to ascertain key factors which attract firms to use auto-ID, the
barriers which have prevented some from doing so, and future developments
which are perceived as important in encouraging more widespread adoption
of the technology within the UK construction supply chain. Key issues
identified include a low level of awareness of auto-ID technologies and
the absence of appropriate industry standards. Recommendations include the
establishment of a standards body and educational initiatives to promote
auto-ID solutions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-388
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Auto-id, Bar Coding, Barriers, Standards,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372169
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372169
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:383-388
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Crosthwaite
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Crosthwaite
Title: The internationalization of British construction companies 1990-96: an empirical analysis
Abstract:
The internationalization of British construction companies is not a new
phenomenon. A recent stated aim of some of the larger companies has been
to increase their overseas activities in an attempt to counteract some of
the problems within the domestic construction market. This paper examines
the international performance of British construction firms during the
period 1990-1996, and is based on a questionnaire survey of senior
executives of the largest British construction companies in an attempt to
analyse their perceptions of the overseas market. The survey was concerned
with the companies' general views, reasons, objectives, conditions,
location and future expectations with regard to their overseas operations.
The principal findings indicate that British firms had increased their
overseas activities during the study period. However, despite theory to
the contrary and relatively high levels of construction demand in some
developing countries, they had tended to conduct the major share of their
overseas work in developed countries. The reasons given for this bias were
that developed countries provided: a secure environment in which to
evaluate risks; financial security; and less corruption. The results
suggest further that shareholder influence is an important factor
affecting the respondent companies location overseas. It was concluded
that while market demand is a factor for overseas location by British
construction companies, it is only one of many.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 389-395
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Internationalization, British Construction Companies, Location, Perceptions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372178
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372178
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:389-395
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Yaw Debrah
Author-X-Name-First: Yaw
Author-X-Name-Last: Debrah
Title: Flexible management of workers: review of employment practices in the construction industry in Singapore
Abstract:
The human resource management literature has covered the issues relating
to labour market flexibility (LMF), and highlighted a trend in many
sectors towards increasing reliance on peripheral workers. Construction
has been cited as a model in terms of its ability to exploit the benefits
of LMF in its widespread use of peripheral workers as a response to an
uncertain operating environment. This paper examines employers' quests for
LMF in the construction industry in Singapore, explores the prevailing
approaches to labour use in the industry, considers the rationales for the
reliance on peripheral workers, and evaluates the merits and disadvantages
of this practice. It argues that Singapore's construction firms have
always relied on a traditional form of employment based on a labour
subcontracting system, but recent years have witnessed changes in the
structure of the system as well as an increase in the proportion of
foreign workers in the labour force. In addition, it is argued that the
conditions for the increasing use of these peripheral workers are
different from those suggested to be underlying the quest for
'flexibility' in industrialized countries. The practice is observed to
have considerable adverse effects, although firms derive some of the
benefits relating to LMF. Possible measures are put forward for improving
construction labour use strategies in Singapore.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 397-408
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Labour Market Flexibility, Construction Industry, Singapore, Employment Systems, Formalizing, Labour Subcontracting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372187
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372187
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:397-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Notman
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Notman
Author-Name: George Norman
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Norman
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Andrew Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Title: A time-series analysis of UK annual and quarterly construction output data (1955-95)
Abstract:
United Kingdom construction output makes a vitally important contribution
to the gross domestic product of the UK economy. Nevertheless, despite the
obvious importance of UK construction, very little is known about the
output behaviour of the industry. This paper endeavours to redress the
imbalance by analysing the post-war time-series behaviour of annual and
quarterly UK construction output. The primary technique of analysis is to
estimate an autoregressive integrated moving-average (ARIMA) model of UK
construction output. Such a model proxies the stochastic or random process
that underlies UK construction output data. Also, a review is given of the
methodology of estimation and diagnostic checking of ARIMA models in the
context of UK construction output, together with ex-post and ex-ante
forecasts of UK construction output using the estimated ARIMA models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-416
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Time-series Data, Arima Models, Random Processes, Ex-post, Ex-ante Forecasts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372196
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372196
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:409-416
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. K. Gowda
Author-X-Name-First: R. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gowda
Author-Name: Amarjit Singh
Author-X-Name-First: Amarjit
Author-X-Name-Last: Singh
Author-Name: Michael Connolly
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Connolly
Title: Holistic enhancement of the production analysis of bituminous paving operations
Abstract:
The construction and repair of highways are becoming very important in
these days of crumbling infrastructure. Costs for these projects have
continued to increase. In order for contractors to stay competitive, it is
essential that their construction operations be as productive as possible.
Money for research usually does not exist for the average contractor. An
inexpensive solution for production studies is process simulation, which
can help improve the productivity of construction operations. This paper
focuses on the paving cycle of a highway resurfacing project, using
MicroCyclone simulation software. The process modelling using MicroCyclone
is applied readily to any construction cyclic process, and aids the
engineer in determining the most economical and efficient way to plan
resources for processes. Different production parameters are measured and
translated to a utility factor that indicates the performance of the
system. Results from the utility factor perspective are considered more
sensitive in decision making, owing to the holistic nature of the utility
factor. Numerous statistical runs were undertaken, and parameters were
weighted and averaged. Based on the holistic analysis, it was possible to
establish that 12 trucks were optimal for the system, a determination that
cannot be made using deterministic analysis, but that a 7% waste of
resources was unavoidable with the existing system of resources. This
paper highlights the analytical method of using MicroCyclone output to
generate useful information that can be used to compare in detail the
performance of different scenarios.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 417-432
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Cyclone, Modelling, Process, Simulation, Utility Factor, Productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372204
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372204
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:417-432
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Khaled El-Rayes
Author-X-Name-First: Khaled
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Rayes
Author-Name: Osama Moselhi
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Moselhi
Title: Resource-driven scheduling of repetitive activities
Abstract:
Repetitive activities are found commonly in the construction of high-rise
buildings, pipeline networks and highway and housing projects.
Construction crews assigned to these activities often perform the work
sequentially, moving from one repetitive unit in the project to the next.
Because of this frequent crew movement, construction of repetitive
activities should be scheduled in such a way as to enable prompt movement
of crews among the repetitive units so as to minimize idle crew time. In
order to maximize the efficiency of crew utilization, the schedule of
repetitive activities should be resource driven, and should satisfy the
crew work continuity constraint in addition to precedence relationships
and crew availability constraints. This paper presents a flexible
algorithm for resource-driven scheduling of repetitive activities that
satisfies the three constraints, and considers the impact of a number of
practical factors encountered commonly during the construction of this
class of projects. The algorithm is applied in two stages: the first
achieves compliance with logical precedence relationships and crew
availability constraints, and the second achieves compliance with the crew
work continuity constraint. A numerical example of a highway project is
analysed to illustrate the use of the algorithm and demonstrate its
capabilities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-446
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Planning, Scheduling, Repetitive Projects, Crew Work Continuity, Resource-driven Scheduling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372213
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372213
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:433-446
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve McCabe
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: McCabe
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Phil Brown
Author-X-Name-First: Phil
Author-X-Name-Last: Brown
Title: Quality managers, authority and leadership
Abstract:
Some quality managers in the construction industry are attempting to
institute total quality (TQ) management. Having established quality
assurance (QA) systems, these managers have realized that the benefits to
be gained from this bureaucratic approach are limited. They now aim to
transform the culture of the industry, making it less adversarial and more
customer centred. Using a sociological analysis based on the forms of
legitimation of power identified by Max Weber, the institutional situation
of quality managers is examined and their consequent ability to introduce
innovation is assessed. Weber suggests that there are three forms of
authority: traditional, charismatic and rational. These are considered in
the light of some modern organization theory and with reference to the
particular problem of cultural change. Managers have the best hope of
successfully introducing TQ when they can establish a measure of
charismatic authority. This is consis7 tent with the centrality given to
the concept of leadership by writers on TQ. The practicalities of this are
investigated through an account of the process of setting up a quality
circle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 447-457
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Quality Management, Change Management, Culture, Charismatic Authority, Leadership,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372222
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372222
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:447-457
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Assem Al-Hajj
Author-X-Name-First: Assem
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Hajj
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Modelling the running costs of buildings
Abstract:
The Building Maintenance Cost Information Service (BMCIS) offers a
comprehensive and rigorous framework for collecting data about the running
costs of buildings. Nevertheless, it is pitched at such a level of detail
that the amount of data collected and analysed may be constrained. This
paper describes the deveopment and testing of a novel technique which
reduces the amount of data to be collected without any unacceptable
reduction in utility. It draws on the principle of cost-significance to
create a simple model of maintenance and operating costs (together called
running costs) from a rare and consistent set of data for 20 buildings at
York University. The model contains only 11 elements, yet can predict the
total running costs of each of four categories of building to an accuracy
of about 21 2%. It can also predict annual costs to about 7%, despite
variations in the periodicity of costs such as painting and insurance. The
model was tested using the jacknife method and on virgin data. It proved
to be extremely robust, predicting the running costs of 12 new buildings
to within 5%. The model offers a simple framework for collecting and
analysing reliable and consistent data on running costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-470
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Life Cycle Costs, Maintenance Costs, Operating Costs, Cost-significance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372231
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372231
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:459-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. H. Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: A. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Author-Name: A. P. Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: A. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Title: A neural networks approach for cost flow forecasting
Abstract:
Artificial neural networks, which simulate neuronal systems of the brain,
are useful methods that have attracted the attention of researchers in
many disciplinary areas. They have many advantages over traditional
methods in situations where the input-output relationship of the system
under study is not explicitly known. This paper investigates the
feasibility of using neural networks for predicting the cost flow of
construction projects, explains the need for cost flow forecasting, and
demonstrates the limitation of the existing models. It then introduces
neural networks as an alternative approach to those mathematical and
statistical methods. The method used in collecting data and modelling the
cost flow is described. Results of the testing are presented and
discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-479
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Neural Networks, Cost Flow, Forecasting, Artificial Intelligence, Cost, Modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372240
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372240
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:471-479
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Behaviour-based safety management in Hong Kong's construction industry: the results of a field study
Abstract:
Hong Kong's construction industry has had a poor site safety record for
over a decade. Behaviour-based methods of safety management (BSM) have
proved successful in other industries and in other countries. Hence, this
study aimed to test the effectiveness of BSM by applying goal-setting and
feedback interventions to specific areas of safety performance on Hong
Kong Housing Authority construction sites. Using a within-group
experimental design and with the use of a proportional rating safety
measurement instrument, data were collected on the effectiveness of BSM on
Hong Kong sites. The data were recognized as time series data; this has
been a serious methodological oversight in much previous research. The
data were analysed using autoregressive moving averages models, and the
results were mixed in that a significant improvement in safety performance
occurred in the housekeeping category of intervention but no improvement
was observed in the access to heights and bamboo scaffolding categories.
Based on these results a goal setting/expectancy theory model of site
safety improvement has been synthesized, and the lack of provision of an
adequate safety infrastructure has been identified as a serious impediment
to improvement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 481-488
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Safety, Motivation, Behaviour-based Methods, Goal Setting, Feedback, Intervention,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372259
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372259
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:481-488
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jingsheng Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Jingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Author-Name: Simaan Abourizk
Author-X-Name-First: Simaan
Author-X-Name-Last: Abourizk
Title: Continuous and combined event-process models for simulating pipeline construction
Abstract:
A continuous model and a combined event-process discrete model are
developed by employing the Slam II general purpose simulation language.
The continuous model addressed the on-going progress of the construction
process on a higher level; and the combined event-process discrete model
describes the pipeline construction on the operational level. Resource
sharing and related issues also are investigated in the two models through
an actual gas line project adopted for the purpose of this research. A
comparison of the two models provides insights into the modelling
approaches. It is concluded that the combined event-process model is more
flexible and more powerful for modelling complex construction operations
than the continuous model, but at the price of requiring a better
understanding of the actual operations and more detailed information.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 489-498
Issue: 4
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Linear Construction, Pipeline Construction, Computer Simulation, Modelling, Planning, Slam Ii, Slamsystem,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372268
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372268
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:4:p:489-498
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Title: A review of recent developments in construction operative training in the UK
Abstract:
Future skill requirements and training initiatives designed to meet them,
are highly topical issues in the construction industry. The pace of change
affecting the structure of training generally has created considerable
confusion among employers in the construction industry. In the mind of the
average employer there is still uncertainty about the nature and value of
competence-based qualifications (NVQs) which are still at a relatively
early stage of implementation. Training provision has been decimated by
the effects of the recession. The range of options for training routes has
become more complex due to continuing government initiatives and frequent
changes in funding policy. This paper traces the prevailing trends in the
provision of craft training in the UK construction industry, highlighting
the fragmentation of funding arrangements and its effects on the structure
of training. First, recent developments in government policy for youth
training in the UK in general are reviewed. Second, formalized training
procedures and the roles of the different training organizations in the
construction industry are discussed. This forms an important backdrop for
understanding issues affecting the introduction of new vocational
qualifications. Finally, the aims, objectives and key characteristics of
these qualifications are presented. Factors that have constrained the
implementation and delivery of the new qualifications are identified also.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 511-520
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Skills, Training Provision, Vocational Qualifications,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372051
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372051
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:511-520
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. K. W. Jayawardane
Author-X-Name-First: A. K. W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jayawardane
Author-Name: N. D. Gunawardena
Author-X-Name-First: N. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gunawardena
Title: Construction workers in developing countries: a case study of Sri Lanka
Abstract:
This paper addresses human resource development (HRD) issues in the Sri
Lankan construction industry. It reports an analysis of the occupational
structure and characteristics of the construction work force as an aid to
meeting the challenges of maintaining a skilled craft work force.
Information was collected through on-site structured interview surveys of
3300 construction workers and a questionnaire survey of contractors,
consultants and clients which included 56 organizations. Results indicate
that the work force consists of 51% unskilled workers, 33% masons, 10%
carpenters and 1-2% each of plumbers, bar benders, painters and
electricians. The highest percentage of skilled workers is aged 30-39
years. Approximately 80% of the work force is casually employed, only 40%
is fully utilized and 86% of the skilled work force have received informal
training only. More than 20% of the work force is dissatisfied due to low
income, lack of job security and difficulty in finding regular work.
Comparing HRD practices to those in the USA and the UK indicates that Sri
Lanka needs to adopt a more structured approach, including a more formal
training system and proper grading of the skilled work force.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 521-530
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Labour Force Structure, Characteristics, Construction Industry, Sri Lanka,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372060
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372060
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:521-530
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: The growth of self-employment in British construction
Abstract:
This paper explores the issues around the remarkable growth in
labour-only subcontracting on a selfemployment basis in the British
construction industry over the last 30 years. Following a presentation of
the available data from the Department of Employment, the paper explores
the reasons behind this remarkable development, and concludes that the
main reason for the growth of self-employment since 1977 is the strategic
choice of construction companies to emphasize flexibility over
productivity as sources of competitive advantage. The paper also explores
the implications of this strategic choice, and concludes that, as a
result, the ability of the industry to increase productivity and quality
is compromised due to the ways in which labour-only subcontracting and
self-employment hinder training and innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 531-542
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Labour-only Subcontracting, Self-employment, Productivity, Safety, Training,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372079
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:531-542
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Coffey
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Coffey
Author-Name: David Langford
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Title: The propensity for employee participation by electrical and mechanical trades in the construction industry
Abstract:
Employee participation has attracted scant attention in the construction
industry, yet the experience of firms in many other industries indicate
that considerable benefits in terms of improved quality, lower production
costs and greater competitiveness can be achieved from formal employee
participation. Studies show that there are numerous examples of employee
participation, in a variety of forms, being used successfully in other
industries, but none in construction- why? One possible explanation is
that some fundamental aspects of the construction industry prevent the
application of participation. This paper reports on research that explored
whether a propensity for participation exists in the construction
industry, and if so, how significant is it. The research established a
conceptual model of the factors that contribute towards participation in
any given workplace and established the relationship between the main
variables and their constituent subvariables and subsubvariables. The
model was used to determine the propensity for participation in the
construction industry. The results revealed that a significant amount of
informal (direct) participation already occurs in the construction
industry, and a strong propensity for direct participation exists. Workers
are shown to have a strong desire to participate and to have significant
potential for participation in defining and controlling their everyday
work (defined as the 'task'). The contextual variables of 'environment'
and 'organization' are shown to be non-preventive and conducive to
participation, respectively. The conclusion is that there are no inherent
reasons that prevent participation being successfully applied in the
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 543-552
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Participation, Involvement, Employees, Human Resource Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372088
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372088
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:543-552
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Christine Wall
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Wall
Title: UK construction skills in the context of European developments
Abstract:
A critical examination is made of the ways in which UK construction
skills training contributes to and diverges from the dynamic of European
developments. In identifying aspects increasingly shared by different
countries, the paper is intended to help in the formulation of a common
training policy. These aspects include: (i) comprehensive training systems
covering all aspects of construction work on site and subsumed under broad
skill groupings, with the 'traditional trades' assuming a 'universal'
character and labourers becoming a residual category; (ii) three locations
for learning- the college, the site and the training workshop- with
increasing prominence being given to workshops and trainee sites; (ii) a
modular training system with broad-based foundation followed by gradual
specialization; (iv) social partnership between employers and employees in
the regulation of training, the maintenance of skill standards, and the
administering of the industrial levy; (v) training and skill categories
linked to wage grades, so providing an incentive to training and further
training, and recognized additionally through certification; (vi) training
for life, with greater emphasis on adult and further training; and (vii)
equality of access to training and employment in construction to open up
this largely white male preserve. The UK construction training system is
out of step with many of these developments, being employer-led, largely
confined to the traditional trades and dominated by qualifications broken
into narrow task-related units. Nevertheless, a framework still exists
which, if built on, would bring the UK training system into line with
European developments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-567
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Labour, Training, Skills, Europe,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372097
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:553-567
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Gann
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Gann
Author-Name: Peter Senker
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Senker
Title: Construction skills training for the next millennium
Abstract:
Construction skills and training needs have changed with the introduction
of new business processes, different forms of organizing production and
technical innovation. In the UK, training provision has failed to adapt
fully to the needs of a modernizing industry. Formal training programmes
have been inappropriate in content and inadequate in quantity. Many of
them are out of date. An assessment is provided of the types of skill and
training required to implement innovative approaches for improving
construction performance. It is based on analysis of work carried out
during a major national review of construction operative and supervisory
skills training in the UK undertaken for the Construction Industry Board.
It seeks to provide a framework for analysing skill needs in the context
of modern performance targets, together with policy recommendations for
decision-makers in firms, government and training institutions. The
conclusion that a new generic training programme is required is of general
relevance to practitioners, trainers and researchers in the UK and in
other countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-580
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction Skills, Training, New Technology, Business Process Change, Innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372105
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372105
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:569-580
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ansgar Richter
Author-X-Name-First: Ansgar
Author-X-Name-Last: Richter
Title: Qualifications in the German construction industry: stocks, flows and comparisons with the British construction sector
Abstract:
The paper provides an overview of qualifications in the German
construction workforce and draws comparisons with the situation in the
British construction industry. The German system of general education and
vocational training is outlined. Data from a variety of sources are used
to describe both the stocks and the flows of qualifications in the German
construction workforce. Particular attention is paid to vocational
qualifications, such as apprenticeships and the Meister qualification. Key
findings are that the majority of German construction workers are
qualified up to apprenticeship level, and that most of these employees
have achieved a general schooling certificate from at least a lower
secondary school prior to their vocational training. These factors are
taken as signs of strength of the German construction workforce.
Comparisons between the stocks of qualifications in the construction
industry in the two countries suggest that intermediate qualifications of
the apprenticeship type are far less prevalent in the British construction
workforce.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-592
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction Industry, Germany, Vocational Training, Education, Qualifications, Apprenticeships,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372114
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372114
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:581-592
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerd Syben
Author-X-Name-First: Gerd
Author-X-Name-Last: Syben
Title: A qualifications trap in the German construction industry: changing the production model and the consequences for the training system in the German construction industry
Abstract:
German construction companies traditionally rely on qualified workers.
This has influenced both their production model (work organization on
site) and their policy towards training and education. Due to the massive
inflow of workers from countries with low labour costs, firms may
fundamentally change this model to a new one which is distinguished by the
combination of less qualified workers with a larger number of managers for
instruction, supervision and control. This change is initially likely to
have a considerable knock-on effect on the training system. However, what
is even worse is that the new model is not likely to work in the long run.
To date the construction industry has acquired its site managers and
supervisors directly from the pool of qualified workers. By reducing
training it produces a shortage of the very resource inevitably needed to
be able to reduce training. The industry will fall into a qualifications
trap. What is more significant is that this trap is shown as a first step
towards lowering corporate image, quality of human resources, productivity
and, in the end, competitiveness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 593-601
Issue: 5
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Training, Labour Market, Germany,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372123
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372123
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:5:p:593-601
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Mak
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Mak
Author-Name: Jenny Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Jenny
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: David Picken
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Picken
Title: The effect on contingency allowances of using risk analysis in capital cost estimating: a Hong Kong case study
Abstract:
In 1993 the Hong Kong Government implemented a methodology for capital
cost estimating using risk analysis (ERA) in its estimating for the
planning of public works projects. ERA is a simple approach and is used to
estimate and calculate an amount of money to allow for uncertainties
associated with a project. This calculated amount of money replaces the
pre-1993 contingency allowance, which was merely a percentage addition on
top of the base estimate of a project. A team approach is adopted to
identify, classify and cost the uncertainties associated with a project.
The sum of the 'average risk allowance' for the identified risk events
thus becomes the 'contingency'. A study of the effect of ERA was carried
out to compare the variability and consistency of the contingency
estimates between non-ERA and ERA projects. This paper presents
preliminary results of a survey which compares a total of 72 non-ERA and
19 ERA projects. The result shows a significant difference in variation
and consistency between these groups. It indicates initial success in
using the ERA method for public works projects to reduce unnecessary and
exaggerated allowance for risk. Further improvement and refinement of the
ERA method is suggested.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 615-619
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Contingency, Era, Quantitative Risk Analysis, Variations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371917
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:615-619
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Stephanie Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Stephanie
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: How 'just-in-time' wastages can be quantified: case study of a private condominium project
Abstract:
Compared with the manufacturing sector, the construction industry suffers
from relatively lower productivity, although some attempts are being made
to overcome low construction productivity by introducing
manufacturing-based concepts to the construction industry. The
just-in-time (JIT) concept is one of the manufacturing-based concepts
introduced to streamline construction operations and help raise
productivity in the industry. The fundamental philosophy of JIT is to
eliminate wastes from delays, transportation, unnecessary processing and
unnecessary motion. This is because any activities which do not add value
to a process are considered wasteful. Construction productivity therefore
can be enhanced if these activities are eliminated. This paper presents an
accounting procedure for measuring JIT wastes. The case study of a private
condominium project, where this accounting procedure was applied, shows
that indeed JIT wastes can be identified and eliminated to raise
construction productivity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 621-635
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Productivity, Just-in-time, Wastes Quantification,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371926
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371926
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:621-635
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jorge Lopes
Author-X-Name-First: Jorge
Author-X-Name-Last: Lopes
Title: The construction industry and macroeconomy in Sub-Saharan Africa post 1970
Abstract:
This paper reports research aimed at the establishment of a model of
interdependence between the construction sector and the national economy,
based on a long term trend, for the developing countries of Sub-Saharan
Africa. This study follows research undertaken by previous writers who
have investigated the relationship between the construction sector and
economic development and found a positive relationship between the share
of construction in gross domestic product (GDP) and the level of per
capita national income. In addition, recent economic and demographic
trends in Sub-Saharan Africa are presented and significant events that
have had a great impact in this region are highlighted. Evidence is
presented that a long term decreasing growth in GDP per capita corresponds
directly to a relative decrease in construction volume. The converse does
not appear to be true.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 637-649
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction Industry, Economic Development, Sub-saharan Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371935
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371935
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:637-649
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Jennings
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Jennings
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Title: Prequalification and multi-criteria selection: a measure of contractors' opinions
Abstract:
The procurement of a construction contractor normally involves some form
of prequalification. The better prequalification regimes adopt a
structured multi-criteria approach (i.e. contractor evaluation based on a
multiple of factors over and above cost). This research solicits
contractors' viewpoints on prequalification, in contrast to earlier works
which have tended to present clients' perspectives. Contractors are
dissatisfied with the frequency and adequacy of current prequalification
regimes. An investigation of the mutual benefits of multi-criteria
selection leads to the suggestion that such benefits could be better
capitalized upon. Contractors' perceived levels of importance (with
respect to selection criteria considered by clients during the selection
process) are evaluated and show that, in line with earlier findings,
'cost' is still the predominant selection factor, followed by 'contractor
experience' and 'company reputation'. A comparison between contractors'
rankings of the selection criteria with similar rankings derived from an
earlier survey of clients, finds significant correlation, indicating that
contractors agree with clients' importance levels of multi-criteria
selection factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 651-660
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Procurement, Tendering, Prequalification, Contractor, Multi-criteria Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371944
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371944
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:651-660
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: The influence of communication structure upon management efficiency
Abstract:
A construction crisis stimulates a network of communications within its
host organization, the structure of which influences crisis management
efficiency. It does so by determining the effectiveness of information
transfer between project participants, and thereby the level of
uncertainty, misunderstanding and ultimately conflict which materializes.
These conclusions arose from research which was concerned specifically
with the patterns of communication and behaviour which emerge in response
to construction crises. The methodology adopted a longitudinal, multiple
case study approach and combined the complementary techniques of content
analysis and social network analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 661-671
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Crisis Management, Efficiency, Communication, Structure, Networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371953
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:661-671
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahmoud Idris
Author-X-Name-First: Mahmoud
Author-X-Name-Last: Idris
Title: Assessment of the factors influencing the maintenance programme of a large university building in Riyadh
Abstract:
The amount of money invested in the building industry in the last two
decades in Saudi Arabia is about SR 1251 ($234) billion. The result is a
stock of large projects in housing, hospitals, universities (seven in
number) etc. These buildings require efficient maintenance programmes to
enable them to be serviced properly. Such programmes are handicapped by a
number of interrelated factors. Such factors, like the harsh climatic
conditions, presence of chlorides and sulphates in soil and water,
contracting systems and lack of codes and building standards, have varied
influences in maintenance. This paper, attempts to examine these factors
through an analysis of the maintenance programmes of a university campus
building in Riyadh.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 673-679
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Contractors Classification, Maintenance Programme, Spare Parts, Procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371962
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371962
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:673-679
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Poh
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Poh
Author-Name: Jundong Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jundong
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Title: The Singapore buildable design appraisal system: a preliminary review of the relationship between buildability, site productivity and cost.
Abstract:
This paper presents preliminary findings of a study to examine the
relationship between site productivity, construction costs and the
'buildable score' of a buildable design appraisal system recently
developed by the Singapore Construction Industry Development Board. The
buildable score for a building is a numerical figure computed by taking
into account the level of standardization, simplicity and extent of
integrated elements used in the design of a building. The stated objective
of the appraisal system is 'to promote more buildable designs in the
industry through assessing the contribution of design to site efficiency
and produc6 tivity'. Empirical results from 37 completed building projects
provide support for the appraisal system's proposition that 'a design with
a higher buildable score will result in more efficient labour usage in
construction and therefore higher site labour productivity'. However, the
relationship between construction costs and buildable score is less
distinct.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 681-692
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Buildability, Buildable Score, Site Labour Productivity, Construction Costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371971
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371971
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:681-692
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Qiping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Qiping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Kak-Keung Lo
Author-X-Name-First: Kak-Keung
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: Qian Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Qian
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Priority setting in maintenance management: a modified multi-attribute approach using analytic hierarchy process
Abstract:
In the current economic climate, budgets for the maintenance of public
buildings are unlikely to meet the ever-increasing maintenance needs.
Although it is unlikely that this problem can be overcome completely
without an injection of further resources, it is possible for government
maintenance authorities to improve the situation by ensuring that the best
solution in terms of 'value for money' is achieved in the planned
maintenance programme. A maintenance plan which is based on a rational
assessment of priorities and up-to-date knowledge of the condition of the
property stock will help to ensure the best use of available resources.
Based on the multi-attribute maintenance prioritization model developed by
Alan Spedding, Roy Holmes and Qiping Shen at the University of West of
England, which is simple in practice and flexible from a management point
of view, this paper presents the results of some further research into
this area by modifying the original model using an analytical hierarchy
process in deciding the weightings of the criteria set out in the
prioritization model. This modified model is more quantitative and
objective than the original model. The validation of the framework is also
discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 693-702
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Planned Maintenance, Multi-attribute Prioritization, Priority Setting, Public Buildings, Analytic Hierarchy Process Ahp,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371980
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371980
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:693-702
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Author-Name: J. D. Headley
Author-X-Name-First: J. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Headley
Title: Management of small building works
Abstract:
This paper focuses on the management dimension of small building works.
The paper presents a subset of findings from a major research study,
supported by governmental and industry based sources, which investigated
the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement methods, organizational
systems and management approaches to small works and minor maintenance
projects. The findings indicate that management for small works must be
exerted at two levels. One is within the organization of the works
themselves. The second is the development of a framework and organization
which considers the implication of the works upon the organization's
ongoing business. Effective small works management requires that an
organization responds promptly to an identified situation, determines the
cost of the work, ensures that the work is undertaken successfully, and
gives value for money within the context of the organization's current
business circumstance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 703-709
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Small Building Works, Minor Maintenance, Structure And Organization, Workload Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998371999
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998371999
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:703-709
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jean Jinghan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jean Jinghan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Title: The characteristics and current status of China's construction industry
Abstract:
The development of China's construction industry is presented by
describing its current status and highlighting its achievements,
identifying the main constraints preventing the industry from playing a
more effective and efficient role in the country's economic development.
Fundamental changes occurred in the construction industry after the
economic reform, and the industry has been playing a very important role
in the national economy, having made impressive progress and been
developed at an amazing speed. However, reforms in the construction
industry are difficult since this industry is not a single sector. The
reform process by its very nature is not systematic. The challenges ahead
are serious, and deeper reforms of the economic system are required.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-719
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: China, Construction Industry, Economic Reform, Business Environment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372006
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372006
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:711-719
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: P. E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: P. E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Title: Developing a theory of construction problem solving
Abstract:
Construction problem solving characterizes much of construction
management practice and thus is an important research domain. Nonetheless,
research in construction problem solving has not yet crossed the threshold
into a mature discipline as there is no universally accepted theory for
construction problem solving research. In exploring the possibility of
establishing such a theory, this paper reviews existing research works in
two important research categories: cognitive science and decision support
systems. A strategy for building a theory for construction problem
solving, focusing on the existing models and techniques developed in the
two research categories, is proposed. Future research needs and
opportunities are identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 721-727
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Problem Solving, Cognitivism, Information Processing, Decision Support Systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372015
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372015
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:721-727
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Author-Name: Bernie Pasadilla
Author-X-Name-First: Bernie
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasadilla
Author-Name: Y. H. Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Y. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Eddie Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Bo-Sin Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Bo-Sin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Title: Globalization and construction industry development: implications of recent developments in the construction sector in Asia
Abstract:
Recent developments in the construction sector in the Asian region
demonstrate three trends: (1) larger private sector participation in
infrastructure projects, (2) increasing vertical integration in the
packaging of construction projects, and (3) increased foreign
participation in domestic construction. This paper attributes the trends
to the globalization and deregulation of markets necessitated by fiscal,
technological and managerial constraints. Although these trends present
intra-Asian opportunities, there are also areas of concern. The trends
have helped polarize the financial and technical superiority of the
developed countries and the corresponding inferiority of the developed
countries in the region of the developing ones. In the long term, this gap
could be filled through technology transfer. In the short term, however,
there are concerns that imported construction services could grow at the
expense of the indigenous sectors of the developing countries. This paper
illustrates this dilemma with the case of Japan as a world leader in
international construction services. Its dominance has apparently come
through the orchestration of industrial and corporate policies,
implemented in a highly regulated and protected domestic market. However,
construction industries in other Asian economies (such as China) will have
to leapfrog in technology, finance and management know-how (e.g. through
joint ventures with developed countries' construction companies) before
they can become formidable powers in an environment that has become much
more global, more de-regulated, more open and more competitive than
before.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 729-737
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
Keywords: Construction, Asia, Globalization, Construction Industry Development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372024
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372024
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:729-737
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Book review
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 738-738
Issue: 6
Volume: 16
Year: 1998
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461998372033
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461998372033
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:16:y:1998:i:6:p:738-738
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Anthony Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: A needs based methodology for classifying construction clients and selecting contractors: comment
Abstract:
This note is a comment on Chinyio, E.A., Olomolaiye, P.O., Kometa, S.T.
and Harris, F.C. (1998) A needs based methodology for classifying
construction clients and selecting contractors, Construction Management
and Economics, 16(1), 91-98, which describes research aimed at classifying
clients by their needs rather than by the traditional
public/private/developer approach. The paper also proposes a new method of
selecting contractors by matching clients' needs to contractors' ability
to satisfy them. The note offers constructive criticism of some aspects of
the analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-7
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Classification, Clients, Construction, Contractors, Tender Evaluation, Scaling Briefing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371772
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371772
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:5-7
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: A grounded theory of construction crisis management
Abstract:
Construction crisis management research is in an exploratory state where
contemplated questions are of more value than hasty answers. For this
reason, this paper is more concerned with theory formulation than theory
testing. More specifically, it derives a grounded theory of construction
crisis management which forms a useful basis for future research. It does
so from an investigation of the complex patterns of communication and
behaviour which emerge in response to construction crises. The conclusion
is that construction crisis management is about the effective control of
social and behavioural instability and the conflict which arises out of
it. However, effective crisis management is made difficult by the in-built
defence mechanisms which construction crises appear to have. The grounded
theory also is contrasted with current crisis management theory and
thereby, the uniqueness of crisis management in a construction context is
identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 9-19
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Crisis Management, Grounded Theory, Conflict, Behaviour, Uncertainty, Power,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371781
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371781
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:9-19
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Title: Quasi-rational behaviour in the property and construction market
Abstract:
The notion of quasi-rationality is discussed and some new empirical
evidence of actual (as revealed in experiments) rather than theorized
behaviour is presented. Results from a series of experiments show evidence
of money illusion in perception of salary levels and frame dependent risk
aversion in agreeing contracts for property development. The implications
for the property and construction markets and for research in property and
construction economics are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-27
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Quasi Rationality, Money Illusion, Human Behaviour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371790
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371790
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:21-27
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charles Egbu
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Egbu
Title: Skills, knowledge and competencies for managing construction refurbishment works
Abstract:
An appropriate body of management skills and knowledge for construction
refurbishment is established: a skills and knowledge inventory. Of the 75
types of management skill and knowledge, the six most important are
leadership, communication (oral/written), motivation of others, health and
safety, decision making, and forecasting and planning. Refurbishment
managers' jobs as defined by their application of skills/knowledge are, on
the whole, homogeneous, with some overlap across levels of management and
types of organization, and this dispels the view that management tasks are
totally different across management strata. A comparison of the relative
importance of management skills/knowledge for refurbishment and management
skills for general construction shows that the skills/knowledge associated
with forecasting and planning, managing conflict and crisis, tenant
welfare, team building, and decision making are higher than in general
construction management; reflecting the uncertain nature and the
relatively higher levels of risks associated with refurbishment works.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 29-43
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Competencies, Construction Management, Education And Training, Refurbishment, Skills And Knowledge,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371808
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371808
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:29-43
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. G. Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: D. G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Author-Name: G. D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: G. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: P. O. Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: P. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Title: Productivity rates and construction methods for high rise concrete construction: a comparative evaluation of UK, German and French contractors
Abstract:
Recent investigations concerning the productivity of the UK construction
industry and its performance compared with other European and world-wide
nations have reported conflicting findings. These investigations have
utilized various methodologies in attempting to measure and compare
productivity levels. The present investigation uses a customized method to
gauge the productivity at site level of three European national
construction industries, namely Germany, France and the UK. Analysis of
variance is employed to compare the productivity rates used by
contractors' planning engineers for a specific concreting operation. The
performance of UK contractors is found to be more disparate than those of
contractors in either France or Germany. Although leading UK contractors
can compete with the best on the continent, there are a number of
companies whose performance is far worse than any in France and Germany,
due mainly to the construction methods used by UK contractors. It is
concluded therefore, that a best practice recommenda9 tion for UK
contractors would be for them to avoid using traditional timber formwork
methods to beams, and instead adopt more productive approaches afforded
using either proprietary or prefabricated systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-52
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Productivity Rates, Formwork, European Comparison, Construction Methods, Analysis Of Variance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371817
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371817
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:45-52
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tuula Laukkanen
Author-X-Name-First: Tuula
Author-X-Name-Last: Laukkanen
Title: Construction work and education: occupational health and safety reviewed
Abstract:
An overview is given of occupational safety and health and of training in
the construction sector, summarizing the findings of different
researchers. The studies discussed emphasize safety instruction and on the
job training at sites, especially the teaching of first aid skills and
accident prevention. Construction workers regard occupational training as
important in maintaining work ability. Present developments of vocational
training with new flexible pathways are described. Rehabilitation needs
are found to be a further important target of work ability promotion. The
study provides support for comprehensive occupational health and safety
measures. New feedback safety measures (LIIKKUVA, TR- safety audit), which
are based on goal setting and a follow up in collaboration, seem to
improve considerably both the safety and the development of construction
work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 53-62
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Safety Instruction, On The Job Training, Vocational Education, Occupational Safety And Health, Construction Occupations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371826
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371826
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:53-62
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stuart Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Stephen Simister
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Simister
Title: Modelling client business processes as an aid to strategic briefing
Abstract:
The briefing process can be divided into two stages. The first is
referred to as strategic briefing and is concerned with understanding the
client's business processes. The second stage comprises the
conceptualization of built solutions and issues of performance
specification. It is the first of these two stages which often is the most
problematic. Several authors have established a relationship between
strategic briefing and business process re-engineering (BPR), but doubts
remain regarding both the originality of BPR and the extent of its
theoretical justification. A social constructivist interpretation of BPR
is presented and the connection is made with soft systems methodology
(SSM). It is argued that SSM offers a rigorous framework for modelling
client business processes which subsumes the principles of BPR. A
participative research seminar is described which evaluates the potential
use of SSM using case study material. Feedback from the seminar
participants provides strong support for the contention that SSM could
indeed provide the basis for a significant enhancement of current briefing
practice. However, there is a danger that practitioners may adopt the
techniques of SSM without necessarily buying in at the methodology level.
The terminology of SSM also is likely to present a barrier to those
construction professionals who are unwilling to make the necessary
intellectual investment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 63-76
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Briefing, Clients, Business Process Re-engineering, Social Constructivism, Soft Systems, Methodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371835
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371835
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:63-76
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. F. Burchett
Author-X-Name-First: J. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Burchett
Author-Name: V. M. Rao Tummala
Author-X-Name-First: V. M. Rao
Author-X-Name-Last: Tummala
Author-Name: H. M. Leung
Author-X-Name-First: H. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Title: A world-wide survey of current practices in the management of risk within electrical supply projects
Abstract:
A survey is described which examines the current risk handling practices
in evaluating capital development projects (transmission, generation and
distribution) within the electricity supply industry world-wide. As risk
perception is an important aspect of risk management, the attitudes
towards and the barriers created by management to risk management plus the
benefits perceived are examined and compared with the results of previous
surveys. The survey will assist also in determining the need and
feasibility of applying a risk management process to capital budgets in
investments such as transmission construction works and other appropriate
applications. The survey has demonstrated that a formal risk management
process is more likely to apply to large, complex projects with potential
of cost overrun. However, the criteria for application are likely to
depend more on overcoming managers concerns about time involvement,
human/organizational resistance and understanding of quantitative
techniques, such as assessing probability distributions, determining and
interpreting expected values, variances, and risk management output
results, so as to appreciate the benefits and enable effective decisions
to be made. The world-wide survey confirms that there is a drive towards a
more thorough assessment of risks than previously recorded, with a formal
risk management process that will meet the expectations of business growth
and project sponsors and ensure that all risks are actively managed
throughout the life cycle of a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 77-90
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Risk Management, Practices, Power Generation, Power Distribution, World-wide Survey, Electricity Supply Industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371844
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371844
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:77-90
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nie-Jia Yau
Author-X-Name-First: Nie-Jia
Author-X-Name-Last: Yau
Author-Name: Jyh-Bin Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Jyh-Bin
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: Ting-Ya Hsieh
Author-X-Name-First: Ting-Ya
Author-X-Name-Last: Hsieh
Title: Inducing rules for selecting retaining wall systems
Abstract:
Rule induction is a paradigm of machine learning that governs how
knowledge is acquired from experience. This paradigm not only classifies
existing data into logical sets, but also expresses them by 'if-then'
rules. Rule induction can be applied to the experience-oriented
construction industry. A typical example would be to select an appropriate
retaining wall system at the project planning stage, in which engineers
normally employ certain empirical laws or select from the types for which
they have relevant expertise in making appropriate selections. This work
presents a novel rule induction approach, capable of inducing from 254
retaining wall cases in engineering design reports into 181 rules, thereby
allowing for an appropriate retaining wall system to be selected. A system
referred to herein as RULES is also constructed with an illustrative
example provided as well. Test results of the system demonstrate that the
rule induction approach can effectively resolve retaining wall selection
problems at the project planning stage. The approach proposed herein is
highly promising for resolving experience-oriented problems in the
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-98
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Rule Induction, Retaining Wall Selection, Knowledge Discovery, Artificial Intelligence,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371853
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371853
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:91-98
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Chapman
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chapman
Title: The likelihood and impact of changes of key project personnel on the design process
Abstract:
Both the construction and the risk analysis and management literature
have overlooked the highly disruptive influence of the loss of key project
personnel. It is clear from other industries involved in managing
projects, such as information technology, that the likelihood of this
adverse event is openly recognized. The construction literature looks at a
series of issues which all relate to communication and information
transfer but fails to isolate one of the key issues which, when it
materializes, seriously undermines the essence of design- the complete
integration of the creative contribution of all the participating design
disciplines. The risk analysis and management literature recognizes the
significance of risk identification but pays scant attention to
discontinuity, and the borrowed identification techniques are reliant
solely on subjective judgements. Propositions for examination are tested
against a documentary analysis of twenty-two projects to establish the
existence of this threat to a project's objectives. Of the sample of
projects examined, changes to personnel are commonplace, and clearly lead
to project overruns.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 99-106
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Design Management, Risk, Key Project Personnel,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371862
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371862
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:99-106
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ramin Moatazed-Keani
Author-X-Name-First: Ramin
Author-X-Name-Last: Moatazed-Keani
Author-Name: Ali R. Ghanbari-Parsa Sechi
Author-X-Name-First: Ali R. Ghanbari-Parsa
Author-X-Name-Last: Sechi
Title: ISO 9000 standards: perceptions and experiences in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
With the adoption by construction firms of BS EN ISO 9000 there has been
much debate concerning its effectiveness and value as a quality management
system. In spite of the reported benefits of ISO 9000 certification,
however, concerns regarding its overall benefit to construction firms due
to unnecessary bureaucracy and paperwork, increased costs, stifling of
innovation, etc. still persist in the industry. This paper reports on the
results of a research carried out on the implementation of BS EN ISO 9000
as a continuation of BS5750 in the UK construction industry from the view
point of the experiences and perceptions of quality assurance managers of
selected construction firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 107-119
Issue: 1
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Quality Assurance, Quality Management Systems, Iso 9000 Standard, Certification, Construction Firms,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371871
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371871
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:1:p:107-119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Willie Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Willie
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Construction cost and building height
Abstract:
A simple neoclassical production function model is used to determine the
incremental cost of each floor as building height increases. This analytic
method provides an alternative to earlier studies using computer
simulation and more cumbersome attempts at measuring the cost variation
directly. By modelling construction costs analytically, it is possible to
identify and assess the impacts of particular variables more explicitly.
There are two main findings. First, cost variation with building height is
not only affected by technology; building design, demand and institutional
factors also play important roles. Secondly, the model may be used to
estimate construction cost variation with building height from readily
available data. In this sense it is an improvement over previous methods
using simulated or direct cost measurement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-132
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Construction Cost, Building Height, Productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371628
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371628
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:129-132
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: S. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Title: The missing arguments of lean construction
Abstract:
The emerging concept of lean construction is concerned with the
application of lean thinking to the construction industry. The ideas of
lean thinking seem set to dominate the UK construction industry's quest to
improve quality and efficiency. However, the current debate is based on a
highly selective interpretation of the available literature. The extent to
which the Japanese model of lean production is applicable in Western
contexts remains hotly debated. An extensive body of critical opinion
equates the Japanese model of lean production with technocratic
totalitarianism. Whilst the claims of productivity achievements in
Japanese manufacturing transplants are impressive, the rhetoric of
flexibility, quality and teamwork too often translates in practice to
control, exploitation and surveillance. Furthermore, it cannot be taken
for granted that any increases in productivity necessarily serve the
interests of the end customer. The current agenda for the implementation
of lean thinking in the UK construction industry notably ignores the
extensive critical literature on lean production. In the absence of a more
balanced research agenda, there is a danger that dogma rather than a
balanced appraisal of the available evidence will drive construction
policy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 133-137
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Lean Construction, Human Resource Management, Total Quality Management, Critical Theory, Customer Responsiveness, Technocratic Totalitarianism,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371637
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371637
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:133-137
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Ray
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Ray
Author-Name: John Hornibrook
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Hornibrook
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Anna Zarkada-Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Zarkada-Fraser
Title: Ethics in tendering: a survey of Australian opinion and practice
Abstract:
The main issues in the philosophical foundations of ethics and tendering
ethics are outlined, and an introduction is provided to the Australian
codes of tendering practice. A questionnaire survey is then described
which sought to ascertain the extent to which ethical behaviour in
tendering is supported and practiced in Australia. The results of the
survey indicate that most companies support the use of codes of tendering;
defend the right of withdrawal of tenders; disapprove of bid shopping,
cover pricing and union involvement in the tendering process, and support
the principals' right to know what is included in a tender as well as the
self-regulation of the tendering codes. It is also shown that most
companies have developed, and follow, idiosyncratic ethical guidelines
that are independent of, and often contrary to, the nationally prescribed
codes. The conclusions recommend a need for the development of a
theoretical frame of reference that can be tested through a more detailed
empirical approach to the development of future ethical prescriptions in
the field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 139-153
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Ethics, Tendering, Codes, Restrictive Practices,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371646
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371646
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:139-153
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. N. Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: A. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Author-Name: S. A. Austin
Author-X-Name-First: S. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Author-Name: T. M. Hassan
Author-X-Name-First: T. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hassan
Author-Name: A. Thorpe
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thorpe
Title: Modelling information flow during the conceptual and schematic stages of building design
Abstract:
This paper reports on recent research the aim of which was to study,
model and simulate the information flow at the conceptual and schematic
stages of building design. The development of a generic model of the
conceptual and schematic design process for buildings is described. This
model comprising design tasks and their information requirements was
produced using data flow diagrams. Examples from several levels of the
model are provided. Details are then given as to how the model may be used
to assist the management of the design process both directly and by
providing primary data for other tools and techniques. Industry feedback
on the data modelling and these tools and techniques is then discussed. It
is concluded that it is only by a better understanding of the flow of
information among project participants that the management of design may
be improved, and that although the generic data flow model provides
immediate benefits to design managers these can be enhanced greatly by the
use of the model as a primary data source for other tools and techniques
including the design structure matrix and simulation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 155-167
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Conceptual And Schematic Design, Information Flow, Data Flow Diagrams, Design Structure Matrix, Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371655
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371655
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:155-167
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Title: Combining rule-based expert systems and artificial neural networks for mark-up estimation
Abstract:
Rule-based expert systems and artificial neural networks are two major
systems for developing intelligent decision support systems. The
integration of the two systems can generate a new system which shares the
strengths of both rule-based and artificial neural network systems. This
research presents a computer based mark-up decision support system called
InMES (integrated mark-up estimation system) that integrates a rule-based
expert system and an artificial neural network (ANN) based expert system.
The computer system represents an innovative approach for estimating a
contractor's mark-up percentage for a construction project. A rule
extraction method is developed to generate rules from a trained ANN. By
using the explanation facility embedded in the rule-based expert system,
InMES provides users with a clear explanation to justify the rationality
of the estimated mark-up output. Cost data derived from a contractor's
successful bids were used to train an ANN and, in conjunction with a
rule-based expert system, select the expected mark-up for a project. The
combination of both ANN- and rule-based expert systems for estimating
mark-up allows significant benefits to be made from each individual
system, such as understanding why and how the estimated mark-up was
derived and also the effects of imposing rules and constraints on a
company's mark-up estimation. The mark-up decision support system
presented can assist contractors in preparing a rational mark-up
percentage for a project. Moreover, InMES as proposed will assist
contractors in their tender decision making, that is, whether or not to
submit a bid for a project considering the estimated mark-up.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 169-176
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Hybrid Systems, Mark-up Decision, Rule Extraction, Explanation Facility,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371664
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371664
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:169-176
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Bargaining tactics in construction disputes
Abstract:
Bargaining is the initial and informal means by which parties attempt to
resolve their differences during a construction dispute. However,
knowledge of the bargaining process in construction projects is scant,
with most attention being given to developing more formal, costly and
reactive means of dispute resolution. This approach is questioned, in
favour of a more efficient one based upon a better understanding of
bargaining behaviour and improved bargaining skills. To this end, the
behavioural complexities of the bargaining process during construction
disputes are investigated. It is concluded that the majority of
construction disputes are unintentional and escalate as a result of
misunderstandings and tactical miscalculations during the bargaining
process. A series of recommendations is set out to reduce the potential
for unintentional escalation during a construction dispute.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 177-188
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Bargaining, Negotiation, Behaviour, Claim, Conflict, Dispute,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371673
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371673
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:177-188
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Modelling building durations in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The duration of Australian construction has been modelled by a time-cost
formula expressed in the form of T=KCB, where T is the actual construction
time in working days, C is the final cost of contract in millions, K is a
constant characteristic of building time performance, and B is a constant
indicative of the sensitivity of time performance to cost level. This
paper applies the relationship to building projects in Hong Kong using
time and cost data from 110 projects. Regression analysis was used to
compute the values of K and B and check how well the model actually fits,
and the best predictor of average construction time of building projects
in Hong Kong is found to be T=152C0.29. It is also found that the Hong
Kong private sector takes a shorter time (120 days) to complete a
hypothesized project with a contract sum of HK$1 million (at December 1994
price) than its government counterpart (166 days). The time-cost
relationship serves as a convenient tool for both project managers and
clients for predicting the actual optimum time required for delivery of a
building project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 189-196
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Time Cost Relationship, Regression Model, Building Projects, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371682
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371682
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:189-196
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Diane Gyi
Author-X-Name-First: Diane
Author-X-Name-Last: Gyi
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Author-Name: Roger Haslam
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Haslam
Title: The quality of accident and health data in the construction industry: interviews with senior managers
Abstract:
Despite recent changes in legislation and advances towards an integrated
project-wide approach, health and safety management in the construction
industry is still a major problem, involving a substantial cost to
business, society and individuals. A prerequisite to improving the
situation and developing an effective management strategy is monitoring,
providing a detailed understanding of the effectiveness of different
approaches to intervention. This paper describes a feasibility study using
in-depth interviews with senior managers to explore the quality of
accident and health data of nine large, high profile companies from the
engineering construction sector. The interview dialogue comprised a series
of questions and issues to be explored on the organization's accident
reporting systems (e.g. what is reported, analysis performed,
computerization), unsafe act and near miss auditing (e.g. definition,
validity), failure type indicators (e.g. auditing, quantification) and
safety culture indicators (e.g. commitment, health). Although safety was a
priority for companies, health (i.e. medicals and monitoring systems) had
not been given the same consideration, especially with regard to
subcontracted labour. This study shows that the validity of accident
statistics as a measure of safety remains a limitation, and that there is
a requirement for a consistent and integrated approach to the measurement
of health and safety performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 197-204
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Health, Safety, Interviews, Accident Data,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371691
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371691
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:197-204
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Scott Baker
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Baker
Author-Name: David Ponniah
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Ponniah
Author-Name: Simon Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Risk response techniques employed currently for major projects
Abstract:
Risk management is fundamental to the success of a major project.
However, the variations in using risk management practices are
considerable and are dependent on numerous factors such as the industry
sector, the size of the project, and the stage in the project life cycle.
One of the major constituents of successful risk control is the use of
risk response. This paper concentrates on the choice and use of the most
successful risk response techniques within the oil and gas industry and
compares them with the use of those chosen by the construction industry.
Results were ascertained through a survey of over one hundred companies
within these two sectors by use of an extensive questionnaire. The main
conclusions are that risk reduction as a response to assessed risks is
most commonly used by both sectors; and that the construction industry
concentrates almost exclusively on reduction of financial risk. It is
proposed that the construction industry can benefit greatly from the more
experienced oil and gas industry in managing technical risk which, with
the advent of private funding, is likely to become a more predominant part
of construction procurement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 205-213
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Risk Management, Risk Response,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371709
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371709
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:205-213
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zeynep Sozen
Author-X-Name-First: Zeynep
Author-X-Name-Last: Sozen
Author-Name: Mehmi Kucuk
Author-X-Name-First: Mehmi
Author-X-Name-Last: Kucuk
Title: Secondary subcontracting in the Turkish construction industry
Abstract:
Based on the findings of a survey carried out in 1995 among Turkish
subcontractors, the present paper argues that pressures (time, overload of
work and commercial considerations) play an important role in the
subcontracting of work by subcontractors to secondary subcontractors. The
tendency to sublet work to secondary subcontractors is associated with
cost control and payment problems. Subcontractors also seem to perceive
the lack of written agreements with secondary subcontractors as
problematic, especially in terms of physical progress of work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-220
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Subcontracting Secondary Subcontracting, Turkish Construction Practices,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371718
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:215-220
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. G. Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: D. G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Author-Name: G. D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: G. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: P. O. Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: P. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Title: European construction contractors: a productivity appraisal of in situ concrete operations
Abstract:
Site productivity levels for high rise, in situ concrete operations are
compared among three groups of European construction contractors. Results
confirm significant differences between the contractor's productivity
rates for each of the three countries investigated (Germany, France and
the UK). German firms are the most efficient at reinforcement and concrete
placing operations, whereas French firms are most productive at formwork.
UK firms are the least productive for two operations, namely formwork and
concrete. French firms are least productive at fixing reinforcement. Based
on a specific model project, it is determined that French and German firms
require significantly fewer man-hours to carry out the said concrete
operations than do UK firms. UK contractors achieve the lowest levels of
labour productivity for the operations involved. The UK also exhibited
greater productivity variation, i.e. providing evidence of extreme (most
and least efficient) levels of labour output for several concrete
operations. Leading on from these analyses, a construction (labour) cost
comparison indicates that French contractors are the least expensive.
Furthermore, the ideal solution for clients would be to have French firms
build their projects in the UK, since this combination provides the most
economic solution to the model building overall.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 221-230
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Productivity Rates, European Comparison, Labour Costs, In Situ Concrete Operations, Analysis Of Variance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371727
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371727
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:221-230
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goh Bee-Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh
Author-X-Name-Last: Bee-Hua
Title: An evaluation of the accuracy of the multiple regression approach in forecasting sectoral construction demand in Singapore
Abstract:
In the current state of research in construction demand modelling and
forecasting there is a predominant use of the multiple regression
approach, particularly the linear technique. Because of the popularity, it
may be useful at this stage to gain an insight into the accuracy of the
approach by comparing the forecasting performance of different forms of
regression analysis. It is only through such formal means that the
relative accuracy of different regression techniques can be assessed. In a
case-study of modelling Singapore's residential, industrial and commercial
construction demand, both linear and nonlinear regression techniques are
applied. The techniques used include multiple linear regression (MLR),
multiple log-linear regression (MLGR) and autoregressive nonlinear
regression (ANLR). Quarterly time-series data over the period 1975-1994
are used. The objective is to evaluate the reliability of these techniques
in modelling sectoral demand based on ex-post forecasting accuracy.
Relative measures of forecasting accuracy dealing with percentage errors
are used. It is found that the MLGR outperforms the other two methods in
two of the three sectors examined by achieving the lowest mean absolute
percentage error. The general conclusion is that nonlinear techniques are
more accurate in representing the complex relationship between demand for
construction and its various associated indicators. In addition to
improved accuracy, the use of nonlinear forms also expands the scope of
regression analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 231-241
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Regression Techniques, Construction Demand, Forecasting Accuracy, Nonlinear, Model Evaluation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371736
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371736
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:2:p:231-241
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samuel Stocks
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Stocks
Author-Name: Amarjit Singh
Author-X-Name-First: Amarjit
Author-X-Name-Last: Singh
Title: Studies on the impact of functional analysis concept design on reduction in change orders
Abstract:
Functional analysis concept design (FACD) is a method by which owners and
designers can 'partner' during the design phase of projects. Much has been
written and reported about partnering on construction projects, but little
is available on the applications and results of FACD. While FACD has been
mentioned in the literature to be a valuable tool, evidence on its
effectiveness has been missing. Consequently, FACD has not hitherto
emerged as a common management system used during design. Management
processes on its implementation also had not been developed fully until
the United States Navy carried out research, much involving tedious trials
and revisions. This paper describes processes that have been found
suitable. The economic benefits of FACD have never been directly
evaluated, but by examining and testing the quantum of change orders on
projects, this study finds that FACD is a viable method that can reduce
construction costs overall. Whereas value engineering and constructability
review are other common tools, FACD is distinct from them both. FACD is
allied to functional analysis system technique (FAST); regulations, and
specifications have been developed to implement FACD to ensure its
success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 251-267
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Change Orders, Anova, Cost, Fast, Design, Functional Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371475
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:251-267
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henk Vermande
Author-X-Name-First: Henk
Author-X-Name-Last: Vermande
Author-Name: Peter-Hein Van Mulligen
Author-X-Name-First: Peter-Hein
Author-X-Name-Last: Van Mulligen
Title: Construction costs in The Netherlands in an international context
Abstract:
OECD purchasing power parities (PPPs) are used regularly in strategic
governmental policy papers to compare the performance of construction
industries among countries. These PPPs suggest that the relative
competitiveness of the Dutch construction sector is fairly weak compared
with surrounding countries. This contradicts the general view that the
Dutch construction industry is very productive and efficient, especially
in house-building. For the member countries of the European Union the OECD
uses data from Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. In
this paper the methodology followed by OECD/Eurostat in their calculation
of PPPs for construction is reviewed. The data for five European countries
(Netherlands, Belgium, UK, France and Germany) are analysed. Next, the
Eurostat results are placed alongside the results of other international
building cost comparisons. The differences are observed and the conclusion
is that the Eurostat PPPs do not reflect the real construction price or
cost differentials among the five EU countries. It appears that the basic
construction price data used by Eurostat are not very accurate, that the
comparison methodology applied by Eurostat itself is insufficient to
express and explain building cost differences among countries, and that
the Eurostat figures for construction are the result of a complex
statistical weighting and processing procedure in which corrections are
not applied for extreme deviations. The conclusion is that the Eurostat
data cannot be used for comparison purposes. Proposals for improvement of
the comparison methodology are reviewed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 269-283
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Building Costs, International Comparison, Statistics, Purchasing Power Parities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371484
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:269-283
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Tendering theory revisited
Abstract:
This paper discusses the content, origin and development of tendering
theory as a theory of price determination. It demonstrates how tendering
theory determines prices and how it is different from game and decision
theories, and that in the tendering process, with non-cooperative,
simultaneous, single sealed bids with individual private valuations,
extensive public information, a large number of bidders and a long
sequence of tendering occasions, there develops a competitive equilibrium.
The development of a competitive equilibrium means that the concept of the
tender as the sum of a valuation and a strategy, which is at the core of
tendering theory, cannot be supported, and that there are serious
empirical, theoretical and methodological inconsistencies in the theory.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 285-296
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Tendering Theory, Tendering, Price Determination, Bidding,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371493
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371493
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:285-296
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Title: The Italian residential construction sector: an input-output historical analysis
Abstract:
Two sets of input-output tables are employed in this paper to analyse the
role of the Italian residential construction sector in the national
economy. The analysis focuses on changes in construction technology over a
period of some 30 years, ending in 1985, the last year for which such data
are available. A set of eight-sector input-output tables is used to show
the weakening of the residential construction sector's effect on the
economy as a whole. This trend is caused by the progressive saturation of
the residential construction market and the transformation of the overall
Italian economy. As expected, the achieved maturity of the Italian economy
is accompanied by the growing importance of maintenance and repair
construction because of the ageing building infrastructure. Another set of
24-sector input-output tables is used to analyse the input and output
profiles of the residential and non-residential construction sectors, by
selecting key supply industries. Significant differences are reported in
the technology of the residential sector, with a shift towards services
and away from manufacturing inputs. Finally, the main findings and
directions for future research are summarized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 297-303
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Input-output Analysis, Backward And Forward Linkage Indicators, Construction Technology, Residential Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371501
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371501
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:297-303
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arthur Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Arthur
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Title: Prediction of hoisting time for tower cranes for public housing construction in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Material transportation for high-rise building construction relies
heavily on tower cranes. Hence the proper use of tower cranes is of
paramount importance for high-rise residential building construction. In
planning and monitoring crane usage in Hong Kong, a schedule is usually
prepared to coordinate hoisting operations. Apart from that, little
research in optimizing crane usage has been carried out previously, except
on operation cycle times, e.g. concreting using a crane and skip and
formwork erection. Allocation of time for the hoisting schedule is based
on the planners' and operators' experience. The accuracy of the hoisting
schedule for crane dominated construction works has significant effects on
the materials supply and on concreting operations. Imbalance in the
allocation of crane usage for subcontractors may lead to conflicts between
trades and idling of workers due to a shortage of materials. Although
planners understand that the load hoisting time is proportional to
hoisting height and other factors, floor construction cycles usually, for
simplicity, are assigned to be constant six day, eight day or ten day
cycles without making the necessary compensation for the longer hoisting
times for upper floors. The prediction of hoisting times is of great
importance to planners to ensure the accuracy of the construction schedule
for crane dominated construction. This paper describes the derivation of a
mathematical model to predict the hoisting times for a tower crane for
public housing construction. Work measurement is used to collect hoisting
times data for analysis. Twelve factors considered to influence hoisting
time are identified for the model. Multiple regression models are built
for predicting supply hoisting times and return hoisting times. The
effects of the variables on hoisting time are reviewed. Estimated hoisting
times calculated from the models are compared with actual hoisting times,
and a worked example illustrating the application of the models is
presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-314
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Tower Crane, Multiple Regression Analysis, Public Housing, Hoisting Time,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:305-314
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. I. Okoroh
Author-X-Name-First: M. I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Okoroh
Author-Name: V. B. Torrance
Author-X-Name-First: V. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Torrance
Title: A model for subcontractor selection in refurbishment projects
Abstract:
A model is presented for analysing the subcontractor's risk elements in
construction refurbishment projects. The system is based on the use of
fuzzy set theory with the fuzzy set representing the overall weighted
average rating of refurbishment contractors criterion for the selection of
subcontractors. A prototype knowledge based expert system is described,
which provides a systematic and objective approach to the selection of
subcontractors. Knowledge elicitation methodology using the 'repertory
grid' technique is detailed. The implementation of a subcontractor
selection and appointment Model for refurbishment contractors (SSARC) in
linguistic terms allows the user to interact with the system in a very
friendly manner using natural language expressions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-327
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Refurbishment, Subcontractors, Repertory Grid, Knowledge Based System, Fuzzy Logic,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371529
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371529
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:315-327
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: S. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Title: A participative research strategy for propagating soft methodologies in value management practice
Abstract:
The emerging methodologies of 'soft operational research' have been
developed for the purposes of structuring multi-perspective problems
characterized by uncertainty, ambiguity and conflict. A participative
research project is reported that sought to propagate the three most
established 'soft' methodologies within UK value management practice. The
adopted research strategy consisted of four key stages. Following an
initial literature review, an insight into existing value management was
gained by twelve semi-structured interviews with leading practitioners.
This was followed by a series of six participative research seminars which
used simulated case studies to evaluate the potential application of the
three methodologies within the context of value management. A final series
of interviews then determined the extent to which the three methodologies
subsequently had been adopted in practice. The results are encouraging in
that already the research has had an influence on UK value management
practice. However, doubts remain as to whether the practitioners have
assimilated the methodologies fully, or simply have adopted individual
techniques in the absence of any theoretical understanding.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 329-340
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Briefing, Group Decision Support, Participative Research, Risk Management, Soft Operational Research, Value Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371538
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:329-340
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: E. Sarah Slaughter
Author-X-Name-First: E. Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Slaughter
Title: Assessment of construction processes and innovations through simulation
Abstract:
The objectives of this research are to represent construction activities
accurately, and to provide a means for assessing the impacts from using
innovations. The research approach is the detailed characterization of
construction processes, and the development of system and material
specific dynamic process simulation models. The ongoing research program
is developing a set of specific models, based on extensive empirical data,
to enable the accurate modelling of all of the construction processes for
a complete facility construction project. A specific process model,
glass/metal curtainwall erection, demonstrates the approach, with an
analysis of the impacts from a related innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 341-350
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Construction Process Improvement, Dynamic Process Simulation, Construction Innovation, Simulation Models, Estimates Of Cost, Worker Safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371547
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371547
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:341-350
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: Modelling and predicting construction durations in Hong Kong public housing
Abstract:
Construction time performance is provoking world-wide concern and
discussion within the industry. This paper reports the results of a survey
in the fourth stage of an investigation seeking to identify a set of
significant variables influencing construction durations of projects in
Hong Kong, the stage addressing the formulation of standard norms for
overall construction durations of public housing projects by modelling the
primary work packages in the building process, namely piling, pile
caps/raft, superstructure, E&M services, finishes and their respective
sequential start-start lag times, on the basis of the identified groups of
critical factors. Data were collected from a sample of 56 standard
'Harmony' type domestic blocks of the Hong Kong Housing Authority; (the
'Harmony' series of block design having become popular for average quality
public housing blocks in the 1990s, ranging from 30 to 40 storeys and
containing about 16 residential units on each floor). These data were
analysed through a series of multiple linear regression exercises that
helped to establish the time prediction model. This model was then tested
and validated using information from a further nine projects from the
Housing Authority. Both the usefulness and shortcomings of the model are
briefly presented and discussed. It is concluded that the model is
applicable to the public housing industry in Hong Kong, and that the
methodology used may be applied to develop similarly useful models in
other subsectors, and in other countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 351-362
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Modelling, Predicting, Construction Durations, Hong Kong Public Housing, Multiple Linear Regression,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371556
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:351-362
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Irurah
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Irurah
Author-Name: Dieter Holm
Author-X-Name-First: Dieter
Author-X-Name-Last: Holm
Title: Energy impact analysis of building construction as applied to South Africa
Abstract:
Basic embodied-energy intensities of building construction
materials/systems by various units and building types are shown to produce
conflicting results and are not directly applicable at a national
policy-intervention level. Using building construction and the allied
sectors in South Africa, this paper demonstrates the extension of basic
energy intensities derived through an improved input-output (I-O) method
into a sectoral energy conservation framework. The framework is based on
sectoral total embodiment energy impact coefficients derived through the
multiplication of the total-embodiment energy intensity coefficients with
the use-intensity coefficients. A ranking of building construction and the
allied sectors in South Africa according to their energy impact
coefficients is used to formulate a priority listing of critical sectors
for energy conservation measures. The framework is used also to identify
generic conservation measures for further investigation and evaluation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-374
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Building Construction, Embodied Energy, Input-output, Use-intensity, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371565
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:363-374
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Author-Name: Sami Assadi
Author-X-Name-First: Sami
Author-X-Name-Last: Assadi
Title: A survey of the site records kept by construction supervisors
Abstract:
A number of writers have cited poor records as limiting the ability of
supervisors, and indeed of contractors, to carry out some of their most
important functions. The study reported in this paper aimed to identify
the problems in detail. This was achieved by conducting a mail-shot survey
of construction supervisors working for firms of civil engineering
consultants. The results indicate that there is considerable room for
improvement in the records kept on most sites, where guidelines are said
to be inadequate and the problems of enforcing these inadequate guidelines
were also recognized. The main source data for progress records was
identified as the site diaries kept by individual members of the
supervisor's team, and these were found to be particularly difficult to
access for a number of reasons. Since the site diaries are such an
important source of information, it is argued that most benefit may be
gained by taking steps to improve these daily logs which, in turn, will
allow better overviews of progress to be produced.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 375-382
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Site Procedures, Supervisor's Functions, Claims, Progress Records,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371574
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:375-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hisham Gaafar
Author-X-Name-First: Hisham
Author-X-Name-Last: Gaafar
Author-Name: John Perry
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Perry
Title: Strategies for insuring subcontracted works
Abstract:
In the UK construction industry there are different strategies used in
practice for the insurance of subcontracted work of which two predominate:
one is for subcontracted work to be insured by both main contractor and
subcontractor (model A) and the other is for only the main contractor to
insure the subcontracted work (model B). The extent of use of these
approaches is discussed and the rationales for them are presented in the
context of research undertaken by questionnaire surveys and structured
interviews. The paper provides a background to the requirements for
subcontractor insurance found in commonly used forms of contract,
including FIDIC. Four possible models of subcontractor insurance are
identified and their relationships to the contract provisions in model
forms is outlined. Two of the models have little practical relevance to
subcontractor insurance and the reasons for this are given. About 75% of
the main contractors in the research sample were found to adopt model A
for all disciplines, although the reasons given were not entirely
consistent. About 15% of the sample adopt model B for all disciplines and
the remainder use different models for different disciplines. Again, the
rationales for these choices were not found to be robust. The main
conclusions are first that the choice of strategy for subcontractor
insurance is highly independent of both the discipline and the selected
form of subcontract, and second that some commercial decisions in this
area may be sub-optimal. There is an unreconciled argument over the
immediate commercial advantages claimed by many for model A and the
potential for longer term reduction in insurance costs which might arise
from the widespread adoption of model B.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-391
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Subcontractor, Insurance, Works, Form Of Contract, Discipline,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371583
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:383-391
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: Cash farming in building and construction: a stochastic analysis
Abstract:
Cash flow management is a significant issue in the management of a
building or construction firm. This paper steps back from the well
researched area of poor cash management and its relationship with failure,
to focus on the funds which are generated through operations, and the
positive benefits which can follow in a well managed organization. A
stochastic model is developed which illustrates how an average of 16% of
turnover can be available for reinvestment. This is sufficient to allow
investment in non-liquid assets, provided that this is managed carefully
and precautions are taken against a severe reduction in turnover. This
level of funds is sufficient to encourage firms to enter the industry with
the motivation of generating funds, rather than a desire to build. This
has implications for large clients and for government when dealing with
the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 393-401
Issue: 3
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Cash Farming, Liquidity, Net Cash Flow, Stochastic Modelling, Monte Carlo,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371592
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371592
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:3:p:393-401
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Author-Name: Rachael Luck
Author-X-Name-First: Rachael
Author-X-Name-Last: Luck
Title: Outsourcing of property-related management functions in Europe and North America, 1993-1998
Abstract:
The annual survey of corporate real estate practices in Europe and North
America conducted by the Corporate Real Estate Management Research Unit at
the University of Reading and Johnson Controls Incorporated includes
information on outsourcing trends of several property-related management
functions-design, construction, facilities, and maintenance management.
The visual inspection of responses would suggest a gradual trend away from
outsourcing, but the statistical tests indicate a significant increase
only in in-house construction management function, and only for the period
between 1993 and 1994. There are no significant trends in any of the four
functions for the remaining period through 1998. However, the survey shows
also that these management functions are interrelated. That is, when an
organization undertakes one of these functions it is likely that they will
perform the others in-house as well. Finally, the shift towards in-house
construction management seems to reflect a wider trend away from
outsourcing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-412
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Corporate Real Estate Management, Facilities Management, Outsourcing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371321
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:409-412
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ezekiel Chinyio
Author-X-Name-First: Ezekiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinyio
Author-Name: Paul Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Title: A needs based methodology for classifying construction clients and selecting contractors-a rejoinder
Abstract:
Our original article (Chinyio et al., 1998a) 'A needs based methodology
for classifying construction clients and selecting contractors',
Construction Management and Economics, 16 (1), 91-98 discussed the
empirical classification of construction clients and illustrated a new
methodology for selecting contractors. The techniques we adopted have not
been applied in a construction scenario before and thus their
implementation may face teething difficulties as differences between
construction and the disciplines from which the techniques were adopted
are ironed out. Due to brevity we did not highlight some of the potential
problems their implementation would encounter, as we could not explain
everything on the subject matters in one article. Skitmore and Mills
(1999) in a comment, Construction Management and Economics, 17 (1), 5-7,
highlighted some anticipated difficulties and posed some insightful
questions concerning the applicability of our concepts. From an optimistic
perspective we have addressed most of the sundry issues raised by Skitmore
and Mills wherein 'Decision Analysis' was reviewed as a basis for
responding to the comments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 413-417
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Classification, Clients, Tender Evaluation, Scaling, Briefing, Decision-making,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371330
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371330
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:413-417
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Piero Tangerini
Author-X-Name-First: Piero
Author-X-Name-Last: Tangerini
Title: From boom to bust: the case of Italian construction firms
Abstract:
The characteristics of the Italian construction market and firm
operations are reviewed. The analysis focuses on the environments of the
late 1980s and early 1990s, during which major scandals and economic
recession ended a business paradigm based on closed competition.
Discussion builds upon a study of the market positioning of the 50 largest
firms during the period under consideration that reflects the state
industrial policy over the years. Long term transformations of the market
require firms to develop new organizational capabilities and to shift
their corporate focus from a production to a service orientation in order
to remain competitive.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 419-425
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Contracting System, Italy, Construction Firms, Competitive Environments, Public Procurement, Market Positioning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371349
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371349
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:419-425
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I. D. Cox
Author-X-Name-First: I. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cox
Author-Name: J. P. Morris
Author-X-Name-First: J. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Morris
Author-Name: J. H. Rogerson
Author-X-Name-First: J. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rogerson
Author-Name: G. E. Jared
Author-X-Name-First: G. E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jared
Title: A quantitative study of post contract award design changes in construction
Abstract:
The investigation reported forms part of a wider study into the
applicability of design for manufacture (DFM) thinking to the total
construction process, and the ways in which this could be implemented.
Historical data from change order request procedures were examined for
several case studies which were considered to be successful projects.
These procedures are intended to capture information about design
modifications, and thus can be considered to be analogous to the rework
procedures used in manufacturing. It was found that in monetary terms
alone, the direct cost of post contract design changes amounts to 5.1-7.6%
of the total project cost. Although the case studies used here were a
convenience sample, the typical financial opportunity for controlling
design changes better is likely to be considerably greater than this.
Frequently cited reasons for design changes included: employer has changed
his requirements, designer's omission in tender documents and new
information on existing site conditions. Little commonality between case
studies was found at the work package level. In contrast to manufacturing,
the availability and accessibility of data relating to rework is
problematic.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 427-439
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Design For Manufacture Dfm, Design Changes, Change Order, Design, Process Mapping,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371358
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:427-439
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Terry Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Terry
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Title: Allocation of contingency in activity duration networks
Abstract:
This paper describes a method for apportioning contingency in a
probabilistic network. It distinguishes between two requirements for
contingency: for high variance crucial activities, and for high float
noncritical activities. This enables a logical two-step apportionment, the
first based upon the idea of 'cruciality', which has become established as
an important indicator of an activity's importance in risk terms, and the
second based upon standard ideas about float. A numerical example is given
based on data used by previous work, so that a comparison of the methods
can be made.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 441-447
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Network Analysis, Stochastic Networks, Construction Planning, Cpm, Contingency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371367
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371367
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:441-447
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Tan Tong Kein
Author-X-Name-First: Alan Tan Tong
Author-X-Name-Last: Kein
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Cle Briffett
Author-X-Name-First: Cle
Author-X-Name-Last: Briffett
Title: ISO 14000: Its relevance to the construction industry of Singapore and its potential as the next industry milestone
Abstract:
ISO 14000 is a series of standards defining a formal and structured
approach to environmental management. It demonstrates, with assurance,
that an organization which complies with current policy and legislation
actively addresses environmental issues. Construction activities have a
myriad of environmental implications. Hence, construction entities must
manage their environmental performance. ISO 14000 represents a possible
solution. This study considers the relevance of environmental management
to construction organizations. After an overview of the environmental
impacts of construction, ISO 14000 and its principles are explored. A
field study is reported that was set up to assess the level of commitment
of construction enterprises in Singapore to environmental management.
Contractors in Singapore are aware of the merits of environmental
management, but are not instituting systems towards achieving it. A
framework for the development and implementation of an environmental
management system (EMS) is proposed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 449-461
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Construction Industry, Environmental Management, Iso 14000, Implementation, Singapore,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371376
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371376
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:449-461
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jonathan Jingsheng Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan Jingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Title: A neural network based system for predicting earthmoving production
Abstract:
An artificial neural network based system (NN earth) is developed for
construction practitioners as a simple tool for predicting earthmoving
operations, which are modelled by back propagation neural networks with
four expected parameters and seven affecting factors. These networks are
then trained using the data patterns obtained from simulation because
there are insufficient data available from industrial sources. The trained
network is then incorporated as the computation engine of NN earth. To
engender confidence in the results of neural computation, a validation
function is implemented in NN earth to allow the user to apply the engine
to historic cases prior to applying it to a new project. An equipment
database is also implemented in NN earth to provide default information,
such as internal cost rate, fuel cost, and operator's cost. User
interfaces are developed to facilitate inputting project information and
manipulating the system. The major functions and use of NN earth are
illustrated in a sample application. In practice, NN earth can assist the
user either in selecting a crew to minimize the unit cost of a project or
in predicting the performance of a given crew.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 463-471
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Artificial Neural Networks, Back Propagation, Earthmoving, Prediction, Simulation, Site Operations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371385
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371385
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:463-471
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chau Kwong Wing
Author-X-Name-First: Chau Kwong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wing
Title: On the issue of plan shape complexity: plan shape indices revisited
Abstract:
Plan shape indices are based on the geometry of the plan shape rather
than on empirical data, and are problematic as they embrace implicit
assumptions that are not tested empirically nor justified theoretically.
Empirical research using data in Hong Kong confirms that these plan shape
indices are much poorer predictors of unit construction costs than the
variables used to construct the indices. This study also develops a method
for constructing a plan shape index that is free from the unjustified
assumptions implicit in existing plan shape indices; it involves an
empirical cost model. Different functional specifications of the cost
models are tested. The result rejects the linear model and other special
case models such as semi-log and log-linear models. However, the
reciprocal model is not rejected. This result suggests that a linear plan
shape index can predict the amount of floor area that can be constructed
with a fixed sum of money better than the construction cost per floor
area.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 473-482
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Building Cost Models, Box-cox Transformation, Construction Cost, Design Variables, Plan Shape,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371394
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371394
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:473-482
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: L. M. Swaffield
Author-X-Name-First: L. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Swaffield
Author-Name: C. L. Pasquire
Author-X-Name-First: C. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasquire
Title: Examination of relationships between building form and function, and the cost of mechanical and electrical services
Abstract:
This paper describes analysis work undertaken to examine relationships
between building function, building form and mechanical and electrical
services cost, including the collection of raw data, and the
transformation work undertaken to enable analysis. Relationships are
identified between building form parameters, e.g. perimeter of external
walls, gross floor area, storey heights, percentage of glazing, and the
mechanical and electrical services costs for buildings of different
functions (commercial, industrial and residential). There are
relationships between the costs of the mechanical and electrical services
installations and some building form descriptors, but the particular
descriptors and the strength of the relationships vary according to the
function of the building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-492
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Mechanical And Electrical Services, Tender Cost, Cost Planning, Building Function, Building Form,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371402
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371402
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:483-492
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Serdar Kale
Author-X-Name-First: Serdar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kale
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Age-dependent business failures in the US construction industry
Abstract:
Age-dependent failure in the construction industry is explored over two
11-year periods (1973-1983 and 1984-1994) by analysing the age
distribution of failed construction companies in each year and computing
age-specific failure probabilities over a 10 year period (1985-1994). The
conflicting perspectives of organizational theory are reconciled by taking
advantage of the complementary nature of the adaptationist and
organizational ecology theories while the effects of the characteristics
of the construction industry are also considered. The research findings
reveal an age-dependent business failure pattern in the US construction
industry where the risk of failure increases initially with increasing
age, reaches a peak point and decreases thereafter as companies grow
older. Newness of a construction company which implies lack of
organizational learning and lack of legitimacy, appears to be the main
factor explaining this pattern.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 493-503
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Construction Company, Business Failure, Adaptation, Inertia, Learning, Legitimacy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371411
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371411
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:493-503
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: P. E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: P. Mandal
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mandal
Author-Name: H. Li
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Determining the causal structure of rework influences in construction
Abstract:
One of the most perplexing issues facing organizations in the
construction industry is their inability to become quality focused. As a
result sub-standard products and services often emanate, which
inadvertently result in rework. Typically, rework is caused by errors made
during the design process. These errors appear downstream in the
procurement process and therefore have a negative impact on a project's
performance. The lack of attention to quality, especially during the
design process, has meant that rework has become an inevitable feature of
the procurement process, and the costs have been found to be as high as
12.4% of total project costs. Such costs could be even higher because they
do not represent schedule delays, litigation costs and other intangible
costs of poor quality. To reduce the cost and effect of rework, an
understanding of its causal structure is needed so that effective
prevention strategies can be identified and the effects of rework reduced
or eliminated. A case study approach based upon deductive and inductive
reasoning is used to identify the major factors that influence rework in
projects. From the findings and with reference to recent literature, the
concept of system dynamics is used to develop a series of influence
diagrams, which are then integrated to develop a conceptual causal loop
model that is used to determine the overall causal structure of rework.
Once an understanding of the causal structure of rework events has been
acquired, effective strategies for rework prevention can be designed and
implemented in order to improve project performance. This paper
contributes to study of quality in construction by capturing the
complexity and dynamism of those factors that influence rework and project
performance in a holistic manner.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 505-517
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Quality Management, Rework, System Dynamics, Causal Loop Diagramming,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371420
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:505-517
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Aviad Shapira
Author-X-Name-First: Aviad
Author-X-Name-Last: Shapira
Author-Name: Clifford Schexnayder
Author-X-Name-First: Clifford
Author-X-Name-Last: Schexnayder
Title: Selection of mobile cranes for building construction projects
Abstract:
The complicated process of selecting cranes for construction projects can
be divided roughly into two main phases: (1) a general decision on the
type of crane, mobile or tower; and (2) selection of the particular model
according to the required size and technical specification. Several
determinants of this second phase of the selection process in a typical
mobile crane culture were investigated through on-site interviews with
representatives of major construction companies. Factors affecting mobile
crane selection were identified, classified, and rated according to their
degree of influence. The involvement in equipment planning and crane
selection was characterized with regard to project stages and planning
parties. The findings were analysed with a view to the changing
participation level of each party throughout project life. The conclusions
of the study portray a picture that is different from the common
assumptions about mobile crane selection, with respect to both influencing
factors and the process itself. The study underlines the weight of
non-project-specific factors, and shows that equipment planning is not
merely a one-time technical exercise executed by a planner, but rather a
process carried out throughout project life by a joint effort of several
parties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-527
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Building Construction, Crane Selection, Equipment Planning, Mobile Cranes, Planning Parties,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371439
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371439
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:519-527
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Gate-keepers or judges: peer reviews in construction management
Abstract:
Peer review has a momentous influence upon the lives of those who seek to
publish, upon the credibility of an academic discipline and upon the way
it develops. It is used widely within the academic community on the
assumption that it encourages high standards of scholarly writing by
providing an informed, fair, reasonable and professional opinion about the
merits of research work. This paper reports an experiment which tested the
extent to which peer review in construction management serves this
function. The results indicate that the outcome of the peer review process
is not significantly different from random, and that there is little
consistency in the reasons advanced for rejection or revision.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 529-536
Issue: 4
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Peer Review, Publication, Research, Construction Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371448
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371448
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:4:p:529-536
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Author-Name: Talat Birgonul
Author-X-Name-First: Talat
Author-X-Name-Last: Birgonul
Author-Name: Irem Ozdogan
Author-X-Name-First: Irem
Author-X-Name-Last: Ozdogan
Title: An input-output analysis of the Turkish construction sector, 1973-1990: a note
Abstract:
Using the four input-output tables compiled in Turkey to date, the aim of
this paper is to examine the construction sector's role in the Turkish
economy and analyse its relationships with the other sectors of the
national economy. Analysis results show that the share of construction in
Gross National Product (GNP) and National Income (NI) tend to increase
whereas the GNP share of manufacturing is relatively stable and that of
services tend to increase after an abrupt decrease in 1985; backward
linkage indicators and output multipliers, as well as forward linkage
indicators and input multipliers of construction industry are stable; and
finally, direct and total construction inputs from manufacturing show
relative stability and those from services tend to increase in recent
years. These findings point out the similarities between the Turkish
construction industry and some advanced industrial countries (AICs) like
Japan and Italy showing signs of growing 'maturity' of the Turkish
economy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 543-551
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Input-output Analysis, Backward Forward Linkage Indicators, Output And Input Multipliers, Turkish Construction Sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371169
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:543-551
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: International construction management research: cultural sensitivity in methodological design
Abstract:
The process of globalization is occurring in the research community as
well as in the business community and it is increasingly likely that
collaborative research across national boundaries will be undertaken. This
paper is concerned with the problems inherent in this process. More
specifically, it focuses upon data collection, conceiving it as an act of
communication. Models of communication are used to investigate problems of
interaction between researchers and respondents of different cultural
backgrounds and to help in the identification of culturally sensitive
methodological strategies. The paper concludes that current criticisms of
construction management research methods, which are being presented from a
global perspective, are more relevant outside a western context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-561
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Research, Methodology, Communication, International, Culture,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371178
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371178
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:553-561
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Huaming Zhai
Author-X-Name-First: Huaming
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhai
Author-Name: Jeffrey Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Jeffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Title: Stochastic modelling and prediction of contractor default risk
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to describe a systematic framework of
stochastic modelling and prediction of financial default risk of
construction contractors. Net-worth-to-asset ratio is identified as an
index for default process modelling. The default condition is defined as
when the ratio becomes negative the first time. A mean-reverting dynamic
model for the contractor default process is found by statistical analysis
and is justified by using the theory of optimal capital structure. The
stochastic modelling of default uses the time to default as the
fundamental random variable. A discrete time trinomial Markov chain model
is developed to assess default risk in terms of a cumulative default
probability function, a default probability function, and the mean and
variance of time to default. Practical examples are given to illustrate
the stochastic methods. A default discriminant study on a group of
contractors and publicly traded companies validates the methods, and
indicates a high predictability of events of default and declines of
credit rating.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 563-576
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371187
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371187
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:563-576
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. G. Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: D. G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Author-Name: G. D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: G. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: P. O. Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: P. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Title: Construction resource/method factors influencing productivity for high rise concrete construction
Abstract:
Research among European countries had confirmed variance in productivity
rates ascribed by construction planning engineers for identical
operations. Similar differences in planned construction resource/method
factors also had been identified. It is hypothesized that such variance
may be due to differences in contractor preference, resulting from
socio-economic and corporate objective impacts. Analysis of variance and
correlation tests are used to examine this hypothesis on data obtained
from French, German and UK contractors. Numerous construction
resource/method factors are tested for their impact on mean productivity
rates for principal high rise in situ concrete construction operations.
Significant productivity rate variations are identified for reinforcement
fixing and formwork erection, while variance in concrete placing
productivity rates are not found to be dependent upon construction
resource/method factors. Contractors seeking to improve productivity might
wish to consider solutions for construction resource/method decisions that
have been found herein to be related to higher productivity rates and (in
some cases) lower costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 577-587
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Productivity Rates, In Situ Concrete Work, Resource Utilization, Construction Methods, High Rise Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371196
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371196
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:577-587
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ka Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Title: Modelling financial decisions in construction firms
Abstract:
Some contractors predict their corporate cash flow on the basis of
individual contracts without considering the relationships between the
overall before-tax profit, risks, other crucial qualitative factors, or
the allocation of resources within the company. Moreover, some
contractors, in predicting their cash flow, focus only on the early-start
progress in the project and their predictions of progress are too
pessimistic, or result in the overuse of resource in order to make up for
delays. In the present research a decision model is established for a
contracting firm. It provides a methodical system for construction
financial decision-making, and a way of solving a financial decision
problem under qualitative and fuzzy circumstances. The model can be
applied to the management of corporate cash flow, thereby facilitating the
minimal use of resources. The information provided by the model allows the
planner to eliminate excess use or idleness of resources during the
scheduling of a project. Financial forecasting may also suggest the best
time to invest in a new project. Four projects for a medium size
construction firm in Hong Kong were employed as case studies in order to
evaluate the mathematical model. The cases involve two objectives:
maximize profit margin and minimize construction risk (consider in a
qualitative factor). The model leads to a compromise optimal schedule that
provides the contracting firm with the optimal schedule for achieving
optimal profit and construction risk by making optimal use of the
contractor's resources.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 589-602
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Fuzzy, Qualitative, Multiple-objectives, Cash Flow, Optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371204
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371204
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:589-602
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei Lo
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: Raymond Krizek
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Krizek
Author-Name: Ahmad Hadavi
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hadavi
Title: Effects of high prequalification requirements
Abstract:
When designing a set of prequalification requirements, the first
objective is to select the basic factors that are deemed appropriate to
scrutinize, and the second objective is to establish the threshold for
each of these factors to evaluate the capability and capacity of the
bidders on a given project; together, these factors and the limits imposed
on each constitute the basis for qualifying or disqualifying each of the
bidders. To obtain the desired prequalification results and the consequent
quality delivery of a project, both selecting the factors and determining
the limits for each factor are crucial and must be given careful attention
with due consideration of the prevailing environment (including market
conditions, deadlines, need for technology transfer, etc.). In this study
it was found that an improper design of prequalification requirements
seriously affected the progress and cost of projects, provided
opportunities for collusion, and encouraged the obtaining of contracts
through improper practices. Based on an analysis of data from 30 Taipei
Mass Rapid Transit projects, together with information gleaned from
numerous interviews with contractors, consultants, and clients, it is
shown that a risk-taking attitude by the Government and the establishment
of relatively low prequalification requirements would be more conducive to
achieving a desirable balance among (a) satisfying the schedule and
sequence of contracting, (b) obtaining lower prices by an increase in
competition, (c) procuring the timely delivery of a quality project, and
(d) fostering the growth of local contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-612
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Prequalification Requirements, Taipei Mass Rapid Transit, Economic Development, Government Policies, Growth Of Local Contractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371213
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371213
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:603-612
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Malik Ranasinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Malik
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranasinghe
Title: Private sector participation in infrastructure projects: a methodology to analyse viability of BOT
Abstract:
Many developing countries are now attempting to finance new
infrastructure projects through private sector participation. This paper
outlines a methodology based on financial and risk analyses that a
government or a government utility can use to analyse the viability of
private sector participation in new infrastructure projects. The water
supply projects in Sri Lanka are used for the case study to outline the
methodology. Financial analyses of a bulk water supply project and a water
distribution project are carried out to estimate subsidy percentages that
are required to make the projects viable, using a model developed for the
investment analysis of all types of infrastructure project. This analysis
looks at four pricing options for the bulk supply project, and sixteen
procurement options for the distribution project, from the view point of
the utility, for three cases of non-revenue water (35% as base case, 50%
and 25% as extreme cases). The risk analysis takes into account the risk
and uncertainty in non-revenue water, cost and demand estimates, rate of
debt and forecasts of escalation. These analyses show that the best option
for the utility is to obtain both bulk supply and distribution projects
through private sector participation using BOT arrangements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 613-623
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Infrastructure, Bot, Financial Analysis, Risk Analysis, Water Supply, Utility, Investments, Developing Countries,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371222
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371222
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:613-623
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Tse
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Tse
Author-Name: C. W. Ho
Author-X-Name-First: C. W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: S. Ganesan
Author-X-Name-First: S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ganesan
Title: Matching housing supply and demand: an empirical study of Hong Kong's market
Abstract:
This paper has the objective of improving on the issue of forecasting new
housing construction, and highlights differences between space demand and
investment demand in housing markets. Further, it indicates how these
differences will affect construction decisions. The first step is to
identify the factors associated with estimating residential property
prices in Hong Kong, based on a demand-supply adjustment process.
Specifically, this study examines the role of population growth,
transaction volume, inflation and interest rate in determining house
prices. Second, based on these estimations, a methodology is developed to
estimate the investment demand schedule and new construction of
residential property.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-633
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Construction, Transaction Volume, Housing Demand, House Price, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371231
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371231
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:625-633
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Gunner
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Gunner
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Comparative analysis of pre-bid forecasting of building prices based on Singapore data
Abstract:
An analysis is described of a sample of pre-bid forecasts for 181
Singapore building contracts awarded between 1980 and 1991 in comparison
with previous research results in this topic. Despite the apparent
contradictions that occur between findings, it is shown that such
differences could be illusionary due to a general lack of reported
significance levels together with, in some cases, small sample sizes. As a
result it is suggested that a general commonality in outcomes may exist in
the form of a single underlying variable.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-646
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Accuracy, Building, Estimating, Pre-bid Estimates, Statistical Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371240
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371240
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:635-646
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Al-Khalil
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Khalil
Author-Name: Mohammed Al-Ghafly
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Ghafly
Title: Important causes of delay in public utility projects in Saudi Arabia
Abstract:
This study was conducted to determine the most important causes of delay
in public utility projects, based on the frequency and severity of the
causes. A survey of randomly selected samples of contractors, consultants,
and owners was carried out to assess the frequency of occurrence and the
severity of impact of sixty potential delay causes. A frequency index and
a severity index were determined for each cause. An importance index for
each cause was then computed as the product of the frequency and severity
indices. The results showed that the three parties surveyed generally
agree on the importance ranking of delay causes. The causes were grouped
also into six major categories of delay. The analysis showed lack of
agreement among the parties on the ranking of the major categories of
delay.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 647-655
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Claims, Delay, Utility Projects, Time, Saudi Arabia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371259
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371259
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:647-655
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Mok Sze Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Mok Sze
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: The application of JIT philosophy to construction: a case study in site layout
Abstract:
The just-in-time (JIT) philosophy has been used in the manufacturing
industry for some forty to fifty years. This system increased not only the
productivity of the industry but also the quality of its products.
Explorative studies have been completed in recent years to see how JIT can
be applied into the construction industry to reap the benefits of the
system. Most of these studies have concluded that it is possible to apply
the techniques of JIT in the construction industry with some
modifications. Taking into consideration that one of the key components of
site management is concerned with waste management (i.e. bringing wastage
down to the minimum), this study focuses on applying JIT for site layout
to improve productivity and quality. By eliminating waste on site,
controlling the movement of inventory coming into the site and within the
site, and controlling the usage of mechanized plant and equipment, smooth
work flow can be achieved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 657-668
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Just-in-time;Construction Management;Site Layout;Productivity;Quality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371268
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371268
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:657-668
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Miller
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Miller
Author-Name: Roger Evje
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Evje
Title: The practical application of delivery methods to project portfolios
Abstract:
The rebirth of design-build, design-build-operate, and
build-operate-transfer as viable alternatives for the delivery of major
capital projects is symptomatic of dynamic changes in the relationship
between producers and clients throughout the construction industry. In the
private sector, these delivery methods offer clients the chance to shift
emphasis towards core functions and away from real estate development and
operations. In the public sector, where capital budgets are constrained,
delivery alternatives offer clients the chance to combine construction
skills and technology to meet infrastructure needs in innovative ways.
However, for those clients with numerous facilities and a steady flow of
projects over long periods of time, a critical problem is emerging: how to
effectively match each project in the portfolio to a preferred delivery
method. This paper presents a tool called CHOICES©™, which
permits convenient comparisons of alternative delivery scenarios for a
portfolio of capital projects and services. CHOICES©™ is
designed to help formulate a portfolio infrastructure strategy, test that
strategy, and adjust it to meet strategic goals within capital
constraints.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 669-677
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Portfolio Management, Project Delivery Methods, Procurement, Choices Tm,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371277
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371277
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:669-677
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jean Jinghan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jean Jinghan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: David Chambers
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Chambers
Title: Sustainability and the impact of Chinese policy initiatives upon construction
Abstract:
The environment has been perceived as an international issue, and ways of
attaining sustainability are becoming important for countries seeking
sustainable development. The international community has been active in
developing policy frameworks towards achieving the sustainability, such as
an ecological modernization approach and environment assessment.
Developing countries deserve special attention in the effort to make
sustainability an operative criterion in their development activities.
Given the difficulties that developing countries are facing, their
perceptions of the concept and principles of sustainability differ in
various contexts from those of developed countries, and the attainment of
sustainability is much more difficult. Therefore, the establishment of a
global partnership is important for the vision of sustainability to be
realized and operationalized in the world. The current stage of economic
development in China provides an opportunity to incorporate environmental
provisions into the national development strategies from a relatively
early stage, rather than attempt retrofit to strategies. However, at
present China's policy initiatives expressed in its Agenda 21 remains only
a visionary concept. A comprehensive policy framework and realistic
implementation measures are needed. The environmental impacts of the
construction industry are extensive, particularly in developing countries.
However, as in many developing countries, China's sustainable construction
is still at its primary stage and current practice is unsatisfactory.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 679-687
Issue: 5
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Sustainable Development, Policy, Construction, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371286
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371286
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:5:p:679-687
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Responsibility, power and construction conflict
Abstract:
Responsibilities in construction projects are not entirely predetermined
by construction contracts. Many emerge arbitrarily from the resolution of
power struggles between opposing interest groups who are trying to
minimize their exposure to an unexpected resourcing demand. These
struggles contain the seeds of conflict because those with relatively
little power tend to emerge with relatively high levels of responsibility.
For the weak, this inequality causes financial strain, anxiety,
resentment, frustration and malevolence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 699-709
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Conflict, Responsibility, Power, Risk, Authority, Contracts, Behaviour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371042
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371042
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:699-709
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Neil Eldin
Author-X-Name-First: Neil
Author-X-Name-Last: Eldin
Title: Impact of employee, management, and process issues on constructability implementation
Abstract:
This paper reports the findings of a study that examined five projects in
which implementation of constructability concepts was viewed as a schedule
reduction tool. The study attempted to determine the benefits, success
factors, and implementation barriers across the case studies. The data
suggested that adopting constructability concepts has the potential for
significantly reducing the project delivery time compared with the
historical performance of the participating companies. Success factors,
implementation barriers, and lessons learned were viewed as management,
employee, and process-related issues. These issues were ranked further
according to their apparent significance in the cases studied. When such a
ranking is verified by additional studies, the efforts of present and
future implementations will focus on the issues that yield the highest
payoffs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-720
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Constructability, Schedule Reduction Tools, Value Engineering, Project Management, Project Delivery, Time, Time To Market, Schedule Compression,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371051
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371051
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:711-720
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Awad Hanna
Author-X-Name-First: Awad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanna
Author-Name: Jeffrey Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Jeffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Author-Name: Paul Vandenberg
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Vandenberg
Title: The impact of change orders on mechanical construction labour efficiency
Abstract:
Change orders impact many areas of a construction project. However, the
impacts that change orders have on labour efficiency are much harder to
quantify than other impacts and therefore are a significant risk to
contractors. Little research has been completed in the past quantifying
these impacts, so disputes are common between owners and contractors
regarding the actual cost of change. This study used data from 43 projects
to develop a linear regression model that predicts the impact of change
orders on labour efficiency. The input factors needed for the model are
(1) total actual project hours, (2) total estimated change hours, (3)
impact classification, and (4) timing of change. The model calculates the
labour loss in efficiency for a particular project so that owners and
contractors will better understand the true impact of change on labour
efficiency. The research is limited to the mechanical trade, but does
include specific work in plumbing, HVAC, process piping, and fire
protection.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 721-730
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Labour Efficiency, Productivity, Impacts, Change Orders, Mechanical Contractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371060
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371060
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:721-730
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. Yogeswaran
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yogeswaran
Author-Name: M. M. Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: To instruct or not? The engineer's dilemma
Abstract:
A recent research project explored the sources of relatively higher value
and/or more frequent construction claims in civil engineering projects in
Hong Kong. Fourteen common sources of claims were cited to seek views from
the industry as to the perceived frequencies, magnitudes and
avoidabilities of claims from such sources. One of the significant sources
was identified as 'instructions not being issued', with reference to the
provision in most standard civil engineering contracts that 'the engineer'
shall issue necessary instructions for the purposes of completion of the
Works. The study reported here focuses on the possible responses of 'the
engineer' when the contractor requests instructions/information. Also the
study examines the possible generation of construction claims therefrom.
Eleven practitioners who were familiar with such matters were issued a
questionnaire which described ten typical construction problem scenarios
(cases) where contractors may request instructions. The responses are
summarized and the basis for reaching each of these decisions is analysed.
An example of the eleven detailed responses to one of the cases is
presented to demonstrate the divergence of perceptions on each issue and
the consequent different recommendations. Strategies to minimize the
claims and disputes arising from such scenarios are developed, based on
resolving the evident conflicts between the reasons for such divergences.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 731-743
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Claims, Sources, Minimize, Instructions, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371079
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:731-743
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. H. Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: A. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Author-Name: Taha Elhag
Author-X-Name-First: Taha
Author-X-Name-Last: Elhag
Title: Applying fuzzy techniques to cash flow analysis
Abstract:
Construction managers are interested in the direction of movement of cash
flow at valuation periods rather than its forecast value, and fuzzy set
theory applied to decision making might help in this process. Fuzzy models
are particularly suited to making decisions involving new technologies
where uncertainties inherent in the situation are complex. The problem of
healthy cash flow at valuation periods relates to the proper estimation of
cash in and out flows and project progress. The paper presents an
alternative approach to cash flow analysis for construction projects. This
project is based on the assumption that cash flow at particular valuation
stages of a project is ambiguous. The paper discusses the weaknesses of
existing methods for cash flow and establishes the need for an alternative
approach. Using an example of 30 cash flow curves, the advantage of fuzzy
cash flow analysis is demonstrated. Results of the analysis are presented
and discussed. The model can be used to analyse the cash flow curve of
projects at any progress period to make sure it is reasonable.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 745-755
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Fuzzy, Cash Flow, Valuation, Fuzzy Techniques, Progress,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371088
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371088
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:745-755
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Penny Brooker
Author-X-Name-First: Penny
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooker
Title: Survey of construction lawyers' attitudes and practice in the use of ADR in contractors' disputes
Abstract:
Continuing a survey of contractors' perceptions about alternative dispute
resolution (ADR) this paper seeks to report an investigation of the level
of involvement of legal advisors to the construction industry in the
dispute resolution process and the perceptions that legal professionals
have about the use of ADR in construction disputes. The research findings
are that contractors are likely to involve lawyers in the dispute
resolution procedure, particularly when disputes concern a legal issue,
when the parties to the dispute are entrenched in their argument, or when
the other party insists on using legal professional assistance. In these
defined circumstances, legal advisors will be influential in determining
the potential use of ADR. The paper concludes that lawyers are unlikely to
recommend ADR for most disputes between contractors, particularly if the
dispute resolution process is perceived to involve the use of delay by
main contractors, if the parties are fixed in their arguments or if they
are exhibiting adversarial behaviour in their approach to the dispute. In
these circumstances lawyers and their clients prefer the force of the
formal systems over conciliatory ADR procedures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 757-765
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Alternative Dispute Resolution, Contractors, Dispute Resolution, Lawyers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371097
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:757-765
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sou-Sen Leu
Author-X-Name-First: Sou-Sen
Author-X-Name-Last: Leu
Author-Name: Chung-Huei Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Chung-Huei
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: A genetic-algorithm-based resource-constrained construction scheduling system
Abstract:
Resources for construction activities are limited in the real
construction world. To avoid waste and shortage of resources on a
construction jobsite, scheduling must include resource allocation. A new
resourceconstrained construction scheduling system is proposed in this
paper. A GA-based searching technique is adopted in the system. In this
paper, new GA crossover and mutation operators, UX3 and UM3, are
presented. These new operators overcome the drawback of traditional GA
operators for sequencing problems. The system effectively can provide the
optimal combination of construction duration, resource quantities and
minimum project duration under the constraint of limited resources.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 767-776
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Resource Constraint, Genetic Algorithms, Scheduling, Resource Allocation, Multiple-objective, Programming,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371105
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371105
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:767-776
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. Roy
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Roy
Author-Name: S. P. Cochrane
Author-X-Name-First: S. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cochrane
Title: Development of a customer focused strategy in speculative house building
Abstract:
The UK housing industry has been slow to adopt new working practices
which have brought improvements in product quality and customer focused
operations to many sectors of manufacturing industry. Instead, the
dominant business driver has been land and house price inflation, with the
market characterized by pronounced boom-and-bust cycles. Reports on the
sector often have highlighted the need for research and action aimed at
bringing about fundamental changes in its operations, both to satisfy
social needs and benefit the companies in the industry. This paper
examines the drivers needed for implementing new customer focused business
processes in the sector. Of particular importance is the development of a
product strategy based on an understanding and analysis of the market.
Results are presented from a large market survey that was carried out, and
their implications for the industry are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-787
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: House Building, Strategy, Product Development, Mass Customization, Market Research,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371114
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371114
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:777-787
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Campbell Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Campbell
Author-X-Name-Last: Fraser
Title: A non-results-based effectiveness index for construction site managers
Abstract:
A method is presented for non-results-based effectiveness indexing of
construction site managers (CSMs). The 52 competence element index is
based on previous research on construction-specific competency elements
and stakeholder assessment systems. The method was qualitatively assessed
through industry focus groups and quantitatively validated through an
empirical study. The performance of 61 Australian CSMs was evaluated by
329 peers, superiors and subordinates. The measurement tool successfully
measured each individual's level of ability on each competence element and
produced an individual effectiveness score for each CSM. The application
of the method resulted in the identification of three levels of
effectiveness: a distinct and homogeneous 'elite' group of very effective
CSMs; a very low performing control group of former CSMs; and a group of
CSMs that are adequately effective. The development and validation of the
method are provided, plus some insights into the characteristics of each
of the groups identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 789-798
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Site Managers, Effectiveness, Competence, Index, Stakeholders,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371123
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371123
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:789-798
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulaziz Bubshait
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulaziz
Author-X-Name-Last: Bubshait
Author-Name: Gulam Farooq
Author-X-Name-First: Gulam
Author-X-Name-Last: Farooq
Author-Name: M. Osama Jannadi
Author-X-Name-First: M. Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Jannadi
Author-Name: Sadi Assaf
Author-X-Name-First: Sadi
Author-X-Name-Last: Assaf
Title: Quality practices in design organizations
Abstract:
Design organizations play a major role in the construction industry: they
are the media that transfer the requirements of the client to the
contractor and ensure that they are met. Thus they need to provide a high
quality of service to ensure that their client's project achieves the best
possible standards of cost, time and quality. Seventy quality practices
(QP) were identified as having a bearing on the quality of service
provided by the local design organizations. These quality practices were
grouped into fifteen sections termed quality sections (QS). The prevalence
of these practices among the local design organizations was surveyed and
determined. The results indicate a significant need for improvement in the
quality sections 'working relationship', 'employee training and
education', and 'performance quality audit'. The study reveals the need
for the establishment of a design code, and evaluation standards for local
design organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 799-809
Issue: 6
Volume: 17
Year: 1999
Keywords: Design Organizations, Quality Practices, Saudi Arabia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461999371132
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461999371132
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:17:y:1999:i:6:p:799-809
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: G. J. Treloar
Author-X-Name-First: G. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Treloar
Author-Name: P. E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: P. E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: O. O. Faniran
Author-X-Name-First: O. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Faniran
Author-Name: U. Iyer-Raniga
Author-X-Name-First: U.
Author-X-Name-Last: Iyer-Raniga
Title: A hybrid life cycle assessment method for construction
Abstract:
Life cycle assessments (LCAs) are used to evaluate the environmental
impacts attributable to products and processes. For construction projects,
LCAs can be used to assess the pollution associated with the manufacture
of building materials for the construction process. Despite the
reliability of traditional LCA data, many upstream processes are excluded,
which adversely affects overall reliability. Input-output analysis is
systemically complete, but is subject to inherent errors when applied to
the LCA of specific products. Analysis of an input-output LCA model
provides a basis for more informed decision making regarding processes
which can be ignored during the collection of traditional LCA data. This
paper proposes a hybrid LCA method for construction in which national
input-output data fill those 'gaps' not accounted for by traditional LCA
data. Regardless of the level of detail at which data are collected, LCAs
can now be performed at similar overall levels of framework completeness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-9
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Life Cycle Assessment, Input-output Analysis, Hybrid Lca, Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370898
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370898
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:5-9
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Author-Name: Patricia Hillebrandt
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Hillebrandt
Author-Name: John Murdoch
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Murdoch
Title: The impact of contract duration on the cost of cash retention
Abstract:
Cash retention is a common means of protecting an employer from a
contractor's insolvency as well as ensuring that contractors finish the
work that they start. Similarly, contractors withhold part of payments due
to their sub-contractors. Larger contracts tend to be subjected to smaller
rates of retention. By calculating the cost of retention as an amount per
year of a contract, it is shown that retention is far more expensive for
firms whose work consists of short contracts. The extra cost is multiplied
when the final payment is delayed, as it often is for those whose work
takes place at the beginning of a project. This may explain why it is that
main contractors are a lot less interested than sub-contractors in
alternatives to cash retention, such as retention bonds.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 11-14
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Bonds, Cash Flow, Contract, Finance, Retention,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370906
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370906
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:11-14
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Krishna Mochtar
Author-X-Name-First: Krishna
Author-X-Name-Last: Mochtar
Title: Trends in productivity improvement in the US construction industry
Abstract:
Surveys of the top 400 US contractors were conducted in 1979, 1983 and
1993 to identify the areas with potential for productivity improvement in
the construction industry. The trends in the findings of these surveys are
observed and interpreted. The results indicate that cost control,
scheduling, design practices, labour training, and quality control are the
functions that consistently over the years are perceived as having
considerable room for productivity improvement, whereas materials
packaging and foreign developments in construction technologies are
perceived consistently as functions that do not have much effect on
improving construction productivity. The functions that were identified as
needing more improvement in 1993 compared with the previous surveys were
prefabrication, new materials, value engineering, specifications, labour
availability, labour training, and quality control, whereas those that
were identified as needing less improvement than in the previous surveys
were field inspection and labour contract agreements. Also, respondents
indicated consistently over the years that they are willing to participate
in activities related to improving construction productivity but are not
interested in funding any such activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 15-27
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Productivity, Construction Industry, Productivity Trends, Usa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370915
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370915
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:15-27
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Campbell Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Campbell
Author-X-Name-Last: Fraser
Title: The influence of personal characteristics on effectiveness of construction site managers
Abstract:
It has been suggested that construction site managers' career progression
may be affected because of the existence of certain personal
characteristics that conform to industry stereotypes. These stereotypes
need to be identified and examined in a systematic manner to ensure that
the rationality of human resource management policy is indeed justifiable.
A set of 26 personal characteristics believed to influence the
effectiveness of construction site managers is identified by senior
construction managers using the nominal group technique. These
characteristics are tested for correlation with effectiveness using a
non-results-based effectiveness index. A questionnaire survey was
completed by 61 site managers for this purpose. The results suggest that
of 26 identified personal factors believed to be important the only ones
which may actually be related to effectiveness are: involvement in
continuing professional development, number of firms worked for, use of
addictive substances, education level, membership of professional bodies,
job satisfaction, motivation level, career aspiration, stress level,
leadership style and the need to work. The findings will assist those
recruiting, retaining or promoting site managers to make a more informed
judgement of key factors influencing effectiveness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 29-36
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Site Management, Effectiveness, Influences, Personal Characteristics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370924
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370924
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:29-36
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anthony Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Author-Name: Robert Newcombe
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Newcombe
Title: The positive use of power on a major construction project
Abstract:
Although reasonably well developed in the general management literature,
the source and use of power in organizations has received little attention
in relation to its effect on the management of construction projects. This
paper reviews the literature on power and its relationship to both formal
and informal authority, and its manifestation as organizational politics,
and relates them to construction projects in general. Reward, coercive,
expert and referent (prestige) power and the role of resources are covered
in this general review. A closer examination is then made of power through
a case study of the development of the Hong Kong University of Science and
Technology, which identifies the positive use of power and its
implications for the outcome of the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 37-44
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Authority, Power, Project Organization, Hong Kong, Case Study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370933
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370933
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:37-44
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jae-Chan Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Jae-Chan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Dae-Ho Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Dae-Ho
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Jae-Jun Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Jae-Jun
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Jong-Suk Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Jong-Suk
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Hyun-Soo Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Hyun-Soo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Title: Segmenting the Korean housing market using multiple discriminant analysis
Abstract:
The business environment of the Korean housing industry has changed
recently from a supplier's market to a buyer's. Establishing and
implementing proper marketing strategies has increasingly become an
important part of the managerial process. This research attempts to offer
a characteristics profile and a forecasting model that classify the
housing purchase consumers into three groups: a single-family housing
purchase group, an apartment housing purchase group, and a non-purchase
group. These groups can be classified and predicted by using the
discriminant function: a linear combination of demographic,
socio-economic, and residential characteristics. Findings in this research
can provide valuable information for future efforts in identifying
distinct target segments of the Korean housing market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Korean Housing Industry, Market Segmentation, Target Marketing Strategy, Multiple Discriminant Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370942
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:45-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Naomi Garnett
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Garnett
Author-Name: Simone Pickrell
Author-X-Name-First: Simone
Author-X-Name-Last: Pickrell
Title: Benchmarking for construction: theory and practice
Abstract:
The UK construction industry has identified benchmarking as one of a
number of initiatives to assist in the drive for major improvements in
efficiency and economy. At the outset, the industry struggled to see how a
technique based upon comparison of similar goods and processes could be
used effectively in a project based industry where products, processes and
teams changed regularly. This paper discusses the development and testing
of a benchmarking model and study methodology for use in construction. The
model was derived from an extensive literature review which considered the
underlying theoretical basis of benchmarking. The case is made that, to be
successful, the benchmarking process is as important as the benchmarks
themselves, and that it is based upon constructivist foundations, rather
than positivist. As such, any methodology for undertaking benchmarking
must take place in a similar vein, i.e. be interactive, team based and
flexible but with an underlying rigour provided by the benchmarking model.
The paper outlines two case studies to test the benchmarking model and
study methodology, discusses the learning and benefits that accrued and
introduces further developments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-63
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Benchmarking Methodology, Process Mapping, Case Studies, Social Constructivism,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370951
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: A model for predicting plant maintenance costs
Abstract:
A model is presented that predicts the total cost of plant maintenance
(i.e. direct cost of maintenance plus indirect cost of lost production)
and is derived studying a random sample of tracked hydraulic excavators.
Analysis is based on the machine history file data of 33 plant items,
modelled using multiple regression (MR) analysis. Validation of the model
was determined via the combination of an observed high R 2 at 0.94 and
various statistical tests which confirmed the prerequisites of a rigorous
MR analysis. Machine weight, type of industry and company attitude towards
predictive maintenance were found to be the best predictor variables of
total plant maintenance cost. The paper also discusses reasons underlying
the inclusion of predictor variables in the final model, and concludes
with clear directions for future research in this field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 65-75
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Plant Maintenance Cost, Tracked Hydraulic Excavators, Construction Plant, Plant Downtime,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370960
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370960
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:65-75
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Title: Analysis of factors influencing project cost estimating practice
Abstract:
Although extensive research has been undertaken on factors influencing
the decision to tender and mark-up and tender price determination for
construction projects, very little of this research contains information
appropriate to the factors involved in costing construction projects. The
object of this study was to gain an understanding of the factors
influencing contractors' cost estimating practice. This was achieved
through a comparative study of eighty-four UK contractors classified into
four categories, namely, very small, small, medium and large firms. The
initial analysis of the 24 factors considered in the study shows that the
main factors relevant to cost estimating practice are complexity of the
project, scale and scope of construction, market conditions, method of
construction, site constraints, client's financial position, buildability
and location of the project. Analysis of variance, which tests the null
hypothesis that the opinions of the four categories of companies are not
significantly different, shows that except for the procurement route and
contractual arrangement factor there is no difference of opinion, at the
5% significance level, on the factors influencing cost estimating. Further
analysis, based on a factor analysis technique, shows that the variables
could be grouped into seven factors; the most important factor grouping
being project complexity followed by technological requirements, project
information, project team requirement, contract requirement, project
duration and, finally, market requirement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 77-89
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Cost Estimate, Factor Analysis, Tendering, Cost Estimators,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370979
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370979
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:77-89
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ron Craig
Author-X-Name-First: Ron
Author-X-Name-Last: Craig
Title: Re-engineering the tender code for construction works
Abstract:
The UK's NJCC Code of Procedure for Single Stage Selective Tendering (now
withdrawn) and its successor, the CIB's Code of Practice for the Selection
of Main Contractors are criticized in the light of decisions of the common
law courts with regard to regulation of the tendering process. It is
argued that a new 'Tendering Code' should be produced in the style and
format of a contract document which reflects not only the statutory
regulation imposed on public bodies, but common law decisions of the
courts. The nature of this tendering contract is explained as a means of
regulating the tendering process. Issues discussed are: dealing with
errors and irregularities found in tenders; dealing with non-compliant
tenders; dealing with tender withdrawal prior to its acceptance or
rejection; making provisions as to time for submission of tenders and
dealing with late tenders; making provision for submission of tender by
fax or other electronic means; making provision for evaluation of tenders
received; and imposing or negotiating reductions in price with tenderers
prior to acceptance. The paper concludes that the common law obligations
placed on the owner to treat all tenderers equally and fairly and to apply
the tender conditions when evaluating tenders and awarding contracts seems
to be good common sense and of commercial advantage, not only to the
immediate parties concerned but also to the wider community.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-100
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Tendering, Contract, Fair-dealing, Equality Of Opportunity, Law,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370988
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370988
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:91-100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna Zarkada-Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Zarkada-Fraser
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Decisions with moral content: collusion
Abstract:
Morality is fast becoming an integral part of the mandate for business
through both societal and regulatory pressures. Collusive tendering is one
of the moral choices facing decision-makers in the construction industry.
This paper describes an empirical investigation of the attitudes and
behavioural intent towards collusive tendering of key individuals in the
tendering process. It also explores the factors that determine these
attitudes. The results of the empirical investigation indicate that there
is a minority of decision-makers that admit they would consider
participating in some form of collusive tendering agreement under certain
circumstances. These people form a distinct group in their demographic as
well as decision-making profile.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 101-111
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Tendering, Moral Decision Making, Ethics, Collusion, Australia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370997
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370997
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:101-111
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sandra Fielden
Author-X-Name-First: Sandra
Author-X-Name-Last: Fielden
Author-Name: Marilyn Davidson
Author-X-Name-First: Marilyn
Author-X-Name-Last: Davidson
Author-Name: Andrew Gale
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Gale
Author-Name: Caroline Davey
Author-X-Name-First: Caroline
Author-X-Name-Last: Davey
Title: Women in construction: the untapped resource
Abstract:
Currently there are over 11 million women employed in the UK, accounting
for 49.5% of the workforce. However, despite increases in the number of
women employed in the construction industry over the past decade, they
still constitute only 13% of the industry's workforce. This means that
construction continues to be the most male dominated of all the major
industrial groups. A review is presented of the literature relating to the
current position of women in the construction industry. It identifies and
examines the barriers preventing women's entry into the industry, the
subsequent barriers faced by those working within the construction
industry, and initiatives committed to promoting equality for women and
men in construction. These barriers arise from a number of sources
including: the construction industry's image; career knowledge amongst
children and adults; selection criteria and male dominated courses;
recruitment practices and procedures; sexist attitudes; male dominated
culture; and the work environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-121
Issue: 1
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Women, Construction, Equality, Barriers, Initiatives,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900371004
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:113-121
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wong Kwok-Chun
Author-X-Name-First: Wong
Author-X-Name-Last: Kwok-Chun
Author-Name: Anthony Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: Property rights implications of public-private joint ventures
Abstract:
When a public institution contracts with a developer for a co-development
project, there are two main options for arrangements: the equity or the
cooperative joint venture. Equity is basically a shareholding arrangement,
whereby inputs are valued at market worth in exchange for respective
shares of ownership of the joint development. Under cooperative joint
ventures, however, shares of ownership are not necessarily based on the
values of the inputs. The partners simply draw up a contract that defines
the inputs and apportions the outputs of the joint development. This paper
argues that a cooperative joint venture between a public institution and a
private developer is basically an arrangement to reduce dissipation of
rent under public ownership. Unlike the equity arrangement, cooperative
joint ventures necessarily lead to an apparent transfer of shares from the
public institution to the private developer. Evidence found thus far in
Hong Kong and China is consistent with this hypothesis. Variations of the
cooperative joint venture are discussed together with examples.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-138
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Property Rights, Joint Ventures, China, Hong Kong, Rent, Public Ownership, Developers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370762
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370762
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:131-138
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: P. E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: H. Li
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Overcoming the problems associated with quality certification
Abstract:
Serendipitous findings are reported from an on-going research project
that seeks to determine the effectiveness of quality assurance systems
certified under the ISO 9000 series in Australian contracting
organizations. In Australia, certification has become mandatory for all
organizations wishing to do business with government agencies and major
private companies. While certification was designed so that purchasers
could have confidence in the quality of the vendor's product or service,
not all organizations have been able to implement certification processes
in a way that supports this original intent. Instead, most construction
organizations have opted to go through the motions without an underlying
sustainable continuous improvement philosophy. They simply wish to gain
marketing benefits, while others have been overcome by the mass of
paperwork required for achieving the quality 'seal of approval'. This
paper uses a case study to examine the experiences of a major building and
engineering contractor threatened by the paperwork dilemma. However, by
adopting a radical shift in the management of the certification programme
the contractor was able to implement a quality system that reduced rework
significantly and brought about marketing benefits. This case study is
used to present a company's experiences in solving problems associated
with the certification process, and offers a learning opportunity for
other organizations facing similar difficulties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 139-149
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Quality Certification, Iso 9000, Documentation, Rework, Continuous Improvement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370771
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: Regional development and construction in Italy: an input-output analysis, 1959-1992
Abstract:
Using two sets of input-output tables, this paper analyses the role of
the construction sector in the North and South regions of Italy, from 1959
to 1992. As expected, the sector has had differing impacts on the two
regional economies over the years. In the highly developed North its
importance has been declining, similarly to the case of other highly
developed countries. In the less developed South, instead, construction
has a relatively higher propulsive role in the creation of goods and
income. This role is significantly diminished since most of the
construction inputs are imported. Some differences are reported in the
sector's input and output profiles of the two regions. From the
technological and organizational points of view, in the South construction
projects appear to be less complex than those in the North.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 151-159
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Input-output Analysis, Backward And Forward Linkage Indicators, Construction Technology, Construction, Economic Development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370780
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370780
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:151-159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Author-Name: Eamon Fitzgerald
Author-X-Name-First: Eamon
Author-X-Name-Last: Fitzgerald
Title: A survey of current cost estimating practices in the UK
Abstract:
The results are documented of an investigation into current cost
estimating practices of contractors for construction projects. A
questionnaire survey of contractors was undertaken, in which the
respondents are classified into four groups based on their turnover
namely: very small, small, medium and large firms. The survey indicates
that contractors, irrespective of size, continue to undertake cost
estimating predominantly for construction planning purposes, including the
preparation of tenders and cost control of projects during the execution
stage and, to a lesser extent, for construction project evaluation. Recent
developments in cost estimating methods and tools that consider risks and
variability in cost estimates, such as the use of range estimating and
parametric estimating techniques, have not been adopted by contractors.
The practice of cost estimating does not differ from conventional
techniques based on the use of labour and material constants to obtain
prices for bills of quantities items on an item by item basis. The study
shows that the major causes of inaccuracy in cost estimating continue to
be the lack of practical knowledge of the construction process by those
responsible for the estimating function, insufficient time to prepare cost
estimates, poor tender documentation and the wide variability of
subcontractors' prices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 161-172
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Cost Estimate, Tendering, Performance Appraisal, Estimating Techniques, Analysis Of Variance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370799
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:161-172
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Simon Austin
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Author-Name: Andrew Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Author-Name: Baizhan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Baizhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Paul Waskett
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Waskett
Title: Analytical design planning technique (ADePT): a dependency structure matrix tool to schedule the building design process
Abstract:
Current planning practice takes little account of the interdisciplinary,
iterative nature of the building design process. This leads to a
compromised design process containing inevitable cycles of rework together
with associated time and cost penalties in both design and construction.
The analytical design planning technique (ADePT) is a planning methodology
which helps to overcome these difficulties. The central part of ADePT is a
dependency structure matrix (DSM). This paper describes DSM techniques and
a tool developed to optimize the design process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 173-182
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Adept, Design, Planning, Design Management, Matrix Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370807
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370807
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:173-182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna Sobotka
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Sobotka
Title: Simulation modelling for logistics re-engineering in the construction company
Abstract:
Much attention is being paid to the significant role of logistics in the
construction industry, with reference both to the total supply chain and
to its individual links, called the 'internal logistic system'.
Rationalization of activity in the logistics sphere leads to lowered
production costs and increased quality. However, rationalization of
logistic processes often involves re-engineering, i.e. reconstruction or
making changes, for instance in the structure of supply chains, in the
organization of physical and information flows, in ways of taking up
decisions, etc. This paper describes the effectiveness of a simulation
modelling approach in improving logistic systems in construction, by
applying information collected from Polish construction practice.
Graphical and analytical models of company logistic systems are the basis
for making simulators using GPSS World™. Two models of different
structures from the point of view of physical and information flow were
chosen, several different strategies for controlling these flows were
worked out, values of particular parameters of the model were defined and
the optimum solution was sought. The assumed optimization criterion is
minimizing logistics costs. An analysis of the research results can be
used to indicate re-engineering needs for the internal models of the
logistic systems investigated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-195
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Internal Logistic System;Building Materials;Simulation Research;Re-engineering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370816
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:183-195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Q. Wang
Author-X-Name-First: S. Q.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Author-Name: S. K. Ting
Author-X-Name-First: S. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ting
Author-Name: D. Ashley
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ashley
Title: Evaluation and management of foreign exchange and revenue risks in China's BOT projects
Abstract:
China is actively investigating ways to introduce project financing,
specifically through the build-operate-transfer (BOT) scheme to meet the
needs for the country's infrastructure and to be attractive to foreign
investors and lenders. The advent of concession agreements, backed by new
BOT laws, will be a positive move forward to achieving project-financed
infrastructure projects. There are thus opportunities especially in the
power sector for foreign investors. However, it is important to identify
and manage the unique or critical risks associated with China's BOT
projects. This is especially so after policies were introduced in late
1996 when the first state-approved BOT project, the US$650 million 2
× 350 megawatt (MW) coal-fired Laibin B Power Plant (Laibin B), was
awarded. They include a competitive tendering process and 100% foreign
ownership of the operating company. This paper is based on the findings
from an international survey on risk management of BOT projects in
developing countries, with emphasis on power projects in China. It
discusses specifically the criticality of foreign exchange and revenue
risks which include exchange rate and convertibility risk, financial
closing risk, dispatch constraint risk and tariff adjustment risk. The
measures for mitigating each of these risks are discussed also.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 197-207
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Build-operate-transfer Bot Project, Risk Management, Foreign Exchange, Currency Convertibility Risk,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370825
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370825
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:197-207
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goh Bee-Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh
Author-X-Name-Last: Bee-Hua
Title: Evaluating the performance of combining neural networks and genetic algorithms to forecast construction demand: the case of the Singapore residential sector
Abstract:
In recent years, forecasting demand for residential construction in
Singapore has become more vital, since it is widely perceived that the
next trough of the real estate cycle is approaching. This paper evaluates
the use of a combination of neural networks (NNs) and genetic algorithms
(GAs) to forecast residential construction demand in Singapore. Successful
applications of NNs, especially in solving complex non-linear problems,
have since stimulated interest in exploring the capabilities of other
biological-based methods such as GAs, and in exploiting the synergy of
these two techniques to create more problem-solving power. In the study, a
basic NN model is used as a benchmark to gauge the performance of the
combined NN-GA model. A relative measure of forecasting accuracy, known as
the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), is used for the comparison. The
models are checked also for internal validity by allowing each to be
trained twice and having a set of forecasts generated after each training.
Both models are found to produce accurate forecasts, because their MAPE
values consistently fall within the acceptable limit of 10%. However, the
combined model out-performs the basis model remarkably by reducing the
average MAPE from about 6% to a mere 1%. For each model, the marginal
difference in the MAPE values (i.e., 0.5% for the NN model and 0.06% for
the NN-GA model) of its two forecasts indicates consistency in
performance, hence establishing internal validity as well. The findings
reinforce the reliability of using NNs to model construction demand and
reveal the benefit of combining NNs and GAs to produce more accurate
models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-217
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Neural Networks, Genetic Algorithms, Construction Demand, Forecasting, Accuracy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370834
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370834
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:209-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Simon Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Graeme Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: Martin Gould
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gould
Title: A new earthworks estimating methodology
Abstract:
Earthworks and earthmoving operations are a major part of many civil
engineering construction projects. Because of their labour and plant
intensity, the planning and estimating of such operations is crucial to
both the cost and duration of the project; earthworks are considered by
many practitioners to be indicators to the success or failure of the
project as a whole. Traditionally, a mixture of manufacturers' data
(through published charts or computer databases) and historical company
data are used in the estimating of earthworks. This process has two main
drawbacks. First, plant haul velocity is dependent on the rolling
resistance at the soil-wheel interface, which is notoriously difficult to
determine; second, the stochastic interface between types of plant
provides a non-deterministic system, resulting in estimates of output
which may be unrealistically high. An alternative system of earthworks
estimating is presented based on a combination of work undertaken in both
the soil/vehicle and stochastic estimating fields. This system is
demonstrated via a case study based on an actual highway project. The main
conclusion to be drawn is that the traditional estimating approach results
in a scheme costed well below realistic values.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 219-228
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Earthworks, Hauling, Rolling Resistance, Earthmoving Plant, Plant Cycle Times,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370843
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370843
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:219-228
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Author-Name: Nick Marshall
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Marshall
Title: Partnering in construction: a critical review of issues, problems and dilemmas
Abstract:
Partnering in construction has been presented as a potentially important
way of improving construction project performance through the direct
benefits it can bring to both clients and contractors. However, there is
still considerable debate about the nature and merits of a partnering
approach. This paper attempts to contribute towards this debate by
exploring the presumed link between partnering and cultural change within
the industry, at both organizational and interorganizational levels of
analysis. To do so, it draws upon theory and research from the social
sciences (especially organizational theory) to explore some of the issues,
problems and dilemmas which emerge when full and proper account is taken
of the complexities of organizations, as well as some of the subtleties
and intricacies of the concept of organizational culture. The paper
concludes that it is only by fully appreciating the effects of such
complexity that a more realistic and practical approach to the development
and implementation of partnering will emerge.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-237
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Partnering, Alliancing, Culture,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370852
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370852
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:229-237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Barbara Bagilhole
Author-X-Name-First: Barbara
Author-X-Name-Last: Bagilhole
Author-Name: Richard Neale
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Neale
Title: A grounded theory of women's career under-achievement in large UK construction companies
Abstract:
In response to impending skills shortages and changing employment
patterns, the UK construction industry recently has made considerable
efforts to attract more women to its professions. However, despite their
increasing representation, there are indications that women experience
difficulties in developing their careers within the industry. This
research investigated the careers of men and women working for large
construction companies, in order to establish the gender determined
influences on women's career progression. A primarily qualitative
methodology was employed for the research, in which career profiles were
developed through ethnographic interviews with 41 matched pairs of male
and female employees. This allowed the gender specific determinants of
careers to be established across a range of different organizations, and
from informants at different vocational and life-cycle stages. The
analysis resulted in the formulation of a set of eight interrelated
theoretical models, from which a theory of women's career development was
constructed. The theory reflects the belief that the construction
workplace is a competitive and conflictual environment, where women are
overtly and covertly discriminated against by men, who use structural
systems to undermine their participation. The women interviewed were found
to have dealt with these barriers in a way which perpetuated existing work
cultures. If reflected throughout the industry, this would suggest the
existence of a self-fulfilling cycle of women's continued
under-achievement. The paper puts forward the radical proposition that
women should not be attracted to the industry unless steps are taken to
moderate its exclusionary and discriminatory culture.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 239-250
Issue: 2
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Women, Career Development, Discrimination, Hrm, Grounded Theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370861
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370861
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:2:p:239-250
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Globalization and construction industry development: research opportunities
Abstract:
Raftery, J., Pasadilla, B., Chiang, Y. H., Hui, E. C. M. and Tang, B. S.
(1998) Construction Management and Economics, 16, 729-37 review recent
developments in the construction industries in Asia. They discuss the main
causes and effects of key trends in globalization and their impact on the
industries. This paper considers some of the points raised by Raftery et
al. It starts with an overall review of their paper. It then considers
construction industry development in general, technology transfer and
joint ventures, and the impact of policy reform on the industries. It
suggests additional relevant issues, and highlights some areas where
further research would be appropriate.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 257-262
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Globalization Construction Industry Development Developing Countries,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370627
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370627
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:257-262
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Bower
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Bower
Title: A systematic approach to the evaluation of indirect costs of contract variations
Abstract:
A mechanism is proposed for the evaluation of compensation due in the
event of a variation order under contracts for construction work. It
demonstrates how the indirect costs of a variation can be derived by the
use of influence curves. Commonly it is accepted that such costs are very
difficult to evaluate systematically, and hence the parties to the
contract have been left to argue over the cost and time effects of a
variation and the compensation due. The technique suggested provides a
simple solution to this problem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 263-268
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Contracts Changes Variations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370636
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370636
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:263-268
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: E. Sarah Slaughter
Author-X-Name-First: E. Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Slaughter
Author-Name: Hikaru Shimizu
Author-X-Name-First: Hikaru
Author-X-Name-Last: Shimizu
Title: 'Clusters' of innovations in recent long span and multi-segmental bridges
Abstract:
The system-level impacts of innovations often can be more significant
than the direct, primary impacts in certain industries. In particular,
these system interactions can be seen with large, complex multi-system
constructed facilities. Approximately half of the 200 specific innovations
identified in eleven recent long span and multi-segmental bridges are
linked to other innovations. Three general types of 'cluster' interaction
are system, actualizing, and complementary links. The system interactions
are nurtured through coordinated innovation development programmes. The
actualizing links connect one set of innovations to another set, to aid in
their realization of the innovation and project objectives. The
complementary links provide additional benefits through the joint use of
multiple innovations. The results of these analyses provide significant
new insight for innovation theory into the system-level interactions of
innovations. Since the frequency of the linkages among the innovations
appears to reflect the relative stability of the design and construction
parameters, recent innovation trajectories may be more difficult to link
effectively to other innovations. These innovation interactions can
provide critical capabilities for achieving the project objectives, but
must be identified and managed effectively to achieve desired performance
levels.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 269-280
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Innovations Long Span Bridge Design And Construction System Interactions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370645
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370645
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:269-280
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: I. Ndekugri
Author-X-Name-First: I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ndekugri
Author-Name: F. C. Harris
Author-X-Name-First: F. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: Factors affecting clients' project dispute resolution satisfaction in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The use of project dispute resolution satisfaction (DRS) as a project
success measurement responds to the increasing concern over the spread of
the dispute epidemic within the construction industry in Hong Kong. The
DRS of a project is considered as favourable where disputes are resolved
within the site level. With the use of 48 project data sets and the
technique of multivariate discriminant analysis, a discriminant model
function was derived to classify projects into favourable DRS and adverse
DRS. The multivariate discriminant analysis model function identified
eight discriminating variables, among which the degree of design changes
offered the highest separation power. The reliability of the discrminating
variables was reinforced by a separate relative importance index study.
Through the use of principal component factor analysis, these variables
were grouped into three factors generically described as substantive
influence, facilitation and indirect influence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 281-294
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Disputes Project Discriminant Analysis Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370654
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370654
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:281-294
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Hooper
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hooper
Author-Name: Chris Nicol
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicol
Title: Design practice and volume production in speculative housebuilding
Abstract:
The design of new residential development in the UK is castigated
routinely in both the technical and broadsheet press, and has in the past
few years become the focus of governmental policy initiatives intended to
improve the overall standard of design in new housebuilding. Remarkably,
however, there has been very little empirical research into the process of
housing design in the private sector, and hence even academic commentaries
have had to extrapolate from a hitherto very limited number of research
studies. Moreover, the private sector housebuilding industry has undergone
significant change in the last two decades, with considerable
concentration and hence domination of production by large firms. With the
private housebuilding sector responsible for over 80% of new production in
the 1990s, it is timely to revisit the design practices of large
speculative housebuilding firms, in order to better understand current
practices and the system of constraints and opportunities in which these
practices are situated. Furthermore, it is necessary to place design
practice in the context of construction technology, for design criticism
all too often abstracts from the technology of building practice and
innovation. Therefore, this study examines, by means of a nationally
representative questionnaire survey of housebuilding firms, the dominant
design practices currently utilized in the industry. The focus is the
extent to which volume housebuilding firms (defined as those producing in
excess of 1000 units per annum) utilize standard designs, and the
interrelationship between such designs and the construction technology
employed. In-depth interviews with a representative sample of senior
personnel from leading housebuilding companies complement the national
survey, and provide insights into the system of constraints and
opportunities which the housebuilding industry faces. At the heart of
current debates is the conflict between the alleged prominence of the
criterion of buildability in private sector housebuilding, at the expense
of individuality in design, regard for the overall design context and the
requirements of the housing consumer. Each of these issues is investigated
in the context of the prevailing practice in the private sector
housebuidling industry in the UK in the 1990s.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 295-310
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Design Volume Housebuilding Private Sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370663
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370663
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:295-310
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shou Qing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shou Qing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Author-Name: S. K. Ting
Author-X-Name-First: S. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ting
Author-Name: D. Ashley
Author-X-Name-First: D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ashley
Title: Foreign exchange and revenue risks: analysis of key contract clauses in China's BOT project
Abstract:
Despite the Asian financial crisis, there was still growing international
interests by sponsors in China's infrastructure projects financed on
build-operate-transfer (BOT) concession contracts. With the closure of the
Guangdong International Trust and Investment Corporation (GITIC), foreign
banks have become cautious towards new loan applications by Chinese
companies and they were confused about government support and guarantees.
Therefore it is important to analyse and manage the unique or critical
risks associated with China's BOT projects. This is especially so after
new policies were introduced in late 1996 when the first state-approved
BOT project, the US$650 million 2 X 350 megawatt coal-fired Laibin B Power
Plant (Laibin B), was awarded. The findings are reported from an
international survey on risk management of BOT projects, with emphasis on
power projects in China, with a discussion of the adequacy of the key
contract clauses used in the Laibin B's concession agreement (CA) in
addressing the foreign exchange and revenue risks, which include exchange
rate and convertibility risk, financial closing risk, dispatch constraint
risk and tariff adjustment risk. Areas for improvements to these contract
clauses are suggested.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 311-320
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Build-OPERATE-TRANSFER Botproject Risk Management Foreign Exchange Currency Convertibility,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370672
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370672
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:311-320
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Zahir Irani
Author-X-Name-First: Zahir
Author-X-Name-Last: Irani
Author-Name: Olusegun Faniran
Author-X-Name-First: Olusegun
Author-X-Name-Last: Faniran
Title: Total quality management and the learning organization: a dialogue for change in construction
Abstract:
Many construction organizations have misunderstood the reality that total
quality management (TQM) based on continuous improvement requires a
commitment to learning and that essentially it is the means to a learning
organization. The paper argues that if the construction industry is to
improve its performance and competitiveness, then there needs to be a
cultural and behavioural shift in the mind-set of practitioners, academics
and the professional institutions. Their focus should be on re-thinking
their approaches to TQM so that learning becomes the norm. It is
demonstrated that a relationship exists between the constructs of TQM,
organizational learning, and the learning organization. Based on a review
of existing literature, a conceptual model for a learning organization in
construction is presented and discussed. The paper proposes some
refinements to the concept of the learning organization, directed at
clearly positioning the critical focus of learning at the organizational
level in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 321-331
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Total Quality Management Organizational Learning Learning Organization Change,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370681
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370681
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:321-331
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Rogers
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Rogers
Title: Using Electre III to aid the choice of housing construction process within structural engineering
Abstract:
The Electre III model may be considered as a decision-aid technique
suited to the appraisal of complex civil/structural engineering projects.
This conclusion is based on an assessment that the model permits a general
ordering of alternatives, even when individual pairs of options remain
uncompared where there is insufficient information to distinguish between
them. Also, the technique is capable of dealing with the mix of both
quantitative and qualitative information obtained within an engineering
project appraisal. Electre III is applied to the evaluation of 11
alternative multi-family housing systems on the basis of 7 criteria
covering labour, material and energy demand. Using this case study, the
benefits of Electre III over other decision models in the selection
process concerned are emphasized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 333-342
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Structural Engineering Electre Iii Multi-CRITERIA Decision Analysis Mcda,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370690
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370690
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:333-342
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Irem Dikmen Ozdoganm
Author-X-Name-First: Irem Dikmen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ozdoganm
Author-Name: M. Talat Birgonul
Author-X-Name-First: M. Talat
Author-X-Name-Last: Birgonul
Title: A decision support framework for project sponsors in the planning stage of build-operate-transfer (BOT) projects
Abstract:
Every decision-making problem is oriented towards the selection of the
correct strategies for achieving objectives, and depends on the
assumptions associated with different scenarios. Project planning in a
buildoperate-transfer (BOT) project is a complicated decision-making
problem because the model has a complex financial and organizational
structure which is influenced also by the socio-economic environment in a
country. A decision support framework is reported, as used in the planning
stage of a hydropower plant project in Turkey, which helped the project
company to check project viability against some predefined critical
success factors, define the risk sharing scenarios under which a project
becomes viable, incorporate risks into cash flow analysis and, finally,
define effective risk mitigation strategies. Key challenges in the
realization of BOT projects, particularly in developing countries, are
discussed together with possible risk sharing principles between the
private and public sector participants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 343-353
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Build-OPERATE-TRANSFER Bot Model Risk Management Monte Carlo Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370708
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:343-353
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lawrence Wai Chung Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Lawrence Wai Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Title: The Coasian market-firm dichotomy and subcontracting in the construction industry
Abstract:
This is a contribution to the debate on the contractual nature of
subcontracting in the construction industry by arguing, contrary to
certain views in the literature on institutional and construction
economics, that the Coasian firm-market dichotomy is not blurred or
pointless. By reference to the type and number of contracts, the study
offers a way to distinguish the firm from the market as well as the
precise nature of subcontracting in terms of such distinction.
Subcontracting is shown to be a nexus of Coasian firms interacting through
the main contractor with a monopsony consumer in a Coasian market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-362
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Transaction Costs Ambiguity Of The Firm Subcontracting Coasian Firm Coasian Market,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370717
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370717
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:355-362
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shou Qing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shou Qing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Michael Anson
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Anson
Title: Comparison of the concreting productivities in Hong Kong and Beijing and a proposed comparison methodology
Abstract:
The ready mixed concrete (RMC) industry is an important sector of the
construction industry in many places. Its level of development in terms of
size and performance may be taken as an index representative of the
development level of a particular construction industry taken as a whole.
Therefore comparisons between different places are of interest, and of
potential economic benefit. As part of a larger research study in Hong
Kong on the productivity of concreting, data have been obtained on the RMC
industries in Hong Kong (HK) and Beijing (BJ). Both are large cities at
different stages of economic development. The study involved close
observation in the early 1990s of 154 pours on building construction sites
in HK and 38 days spent at 38 RMC plants, one day at each, together with
34 site pours and 20 days at RMC plants in BJ. Much detailed performance
information has been derived, and a comparison methodology is proposed
which could have general application in this industry. It is demonstrated
that the RMC industry in HK is more productive than the industry in BJ.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-372
Issue: 3
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Performance Benchmark Concrete Placing Ready Mixed Concrete Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900370726
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900370726
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:3:p:363-372
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Peter Graham
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Graham
Author-Name: Guinevere Smithers
Author-X-Name-First: Guinevere
Author-X-Name-Last: Smithers
Title: Employee perceptions of the solid waste management system operating in a large Australian contracting organization: implications for company policy implementation
Abstract:
A survey of employees' perceptions of a large contracting firm's waste
management system was conducted. Results were factor analysed and an
eight-factor model of the waste management climate was identified.
Perceptions were found to differ between employee groupings. Managerial
staff had a less positive perception of the waste management climate than
did site workers. Qualitative interview data were analysed using a content
analysis approach. Managers were found to perceive environmental issues as
being less important than cost, time or quality objectives. Construction
workers believed environmental issues to be of greater importance than
these other objectives. Differences in perceptions of managers and site
workers have implications for the implementation of any company waste
management policy. There is a need to involve workers in identifying waste
management solutions, to provide more information to all employees about
practical aspects of waste management, and for managers visibly to
demonstrate commitment to waste management policy objectives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-393
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction And Demolition Waste Organizational Climate Solid Waste Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024806
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024806
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:383-393
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Malik Ranasinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Malik
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranasinghe
Title: Impact of correlation and induced correlation on the estimation of project cost of buildings
Abstract:
Treatment of correlation between variables is necessary for deriving any
theoretical distribution of the project cost of buildings. This paper
highlights some often ignored theoretical requirements necessary for a
rigorous treatment of correlations. The condition for a positive definite
correlation matrix is described, along with an analytical procedure and a
computer program developed to verify the positive definite condition when
correlation coefficients between input variables are estimated using
historical data. The analytical procedure and the developed computer
program can be used in any application that obtains correlation
information from historical data or as subjective judgements to be used in
a functional relationship. A new concept called induced correlation is
suggested to define and to treat correlation between derived variables
that arise from the common (shared) primary variables in their functional
forms. A published numerical example is used to highlight the stages where
correlation between variables can have an impact on the estimation of
moments (estimated expected value and estimated standard deviation) for
the project cost of buildings, and to demonstrate the improvement in the
estimation of the standard deviation of project cost as a result of
treating correlations in risk analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 395-406
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Project Cost Quantity Correlation Coefficient Correlation Matrix Probability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024815
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024815
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:395-406
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Eric
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: George Norman
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Norman
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Title: A fuzzy stochastic technique for project selection
Abstract:
The comparison of two or more risky projects is more of a challenge than
the evaluation of one project in isolation. In the numerous decision
models and methods suggested in the literature, often it is assumed that
the criteria as well as the decision maker's preference or utility
function can be crisply defined. Multi-attribute decision aids that permit
the consideration of both multi-variables and risks generally have been
associated with complex mathematics and heavy consumption of resources.
This paper shows how project selection problems can be dealt with when
some project attributes are subject to random variations. The method
incorporates fuzzy analysis into multi-attribute utility theory. The
aggregate utility function for an individual project is derived as a fuzzy
number (or interval) which, in turn, yields probabilistic information for
stochastic dominance tests. A unique feature of the approach is that it
dispenses with the task of selecting probability distributions for
aggregate utility functions. A comparison of the proposed method with the
expected utility approach was made and the findings showed agreement
between the results.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 407-414
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Project Risk Multi-ATTRIBUTE Utility Theory Fuzzy Analysis Stochastic Dominance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024824
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024824
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:407-414
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohan Manavazhi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Manavazhi
Title: Hybrid modelling framework for synthesizing virtual structures
Abstract:
Erecting a structure in a construction project involves the use of a
number of complex, interacting processes. Systematic analysis of these
processes is essential for ensuring that they are executed in the most
efficient way possible. However, traditional tools like CPM and PERT and
other analytical and mathematical approaches cannot capture the dynamics
of construction processes. These problems could be overcome by conducting
experiments on the real-world processes themselves but such experiments
can be prohibitively expensive. Thus, a more feasible approach that can
overcome these drawbacks is required. This paper presents a
framework-based approach for facilitating the analyses of the operations
required for the construction of a structure with a specific configuration
by building the structure virtually in a digital computer using
discrete-event simulation. The approach utilizes a hybrid framework that
combines the flexibility and simplicity of semantic networks with the
power of object-orientation to facilitate discrete-event simulation. A
predominantly product-centric modelling approach is used in the
development of the framework. A sample application is given illustrating
the application of the framework-based approach for the analyses of the
operations required for the construction of the structure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 415-426
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Discrete-EVENT Simulation Object-ORIENTED Simulation Product Synthesis Product Modelling Semantic Networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024833
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024833
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:415-426
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: Estimating life cycle plant maintenance costs
Abstract:
The financial success or otherwise of a maintenance strategy can be
determined realistically only when actual costs are compared with target
'predicted' values. This is because, in the absence of accurate cost
control mechanisms, maintenance expenditure can exceed capital cost. In
order to address this problem, a methodology is presented for predicting
life cycle maintenance expenditure over the useful life of tracked
hydraulic excavators. First, time series analysis (using a moving centred
average) illustrates that the trend in maintenance cost expenditure is
difficult to isolate due to large perturbations in periodic unscheduled
maintenance. Such expenditure accounts for 92% of total maintenance cost.
Second, cumulative costs of maintenance are modelled using a cubic
equation, with time (in hours) as the predictor (xn) variable. Model
performance is robust with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.99 and
a mean percentage error (MPE) of minus 3.94. The paper concludes with
direction for future research in this field, particularly with respect to
expanding the model's application to machines of various weights,
manufacturers and machines operating in other industries, and
determination of criteria with which to predict when a plant item will
reach the end of its useful life.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 427-435
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Plant Maintenance Machine Cost Estimation Time Series Analysis Cubic Equation Financial Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024842
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024842
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:427-435
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Z. M. Deng
Author-X-Name-First: Z. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Deng
Author-Name: S. X. Zeng
Author-X-Name-First: S. X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zeng
Author-Name: C. S. Ho
Author-X-Name-First: C. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Title: Quest for continuous quality improvement for public housing construction in Hong Kong
Abstract:
With mandatory implementation of the ISO 9000 quality system by the
Housing Authority in Hong Kong, most construction firms there now claim to
have initiated quality systems in their processes as defined in their
quality manuals. In addition, an objective quality measuring yardstick,
the Performance Assessment Scoring Scheme (PASS), has been administered by
the Housing Authority of Hong Kong to monitor the performance quality of
contractors. These two measures, coupled with the two other contractual
requirements stipulating the use of mechanized formwork and precast facade
units, are directed towards achievement of a desired quality standard.
However, the PASS analysis has revealed that the general level of quality
has not improved significantly and the expected continuous improvement in
construction quality has not been realized over a specific time period.
Quality appears far better on paper than does the actual work on site.
This suggests that quality management in the construction setting is far
more difficult to achieve than it is in other industries. This paper
explores possible reasons for failure in the quest for quality in public
housing construction, and proposes changes needed before the vision of
continuous quality improvement can be realized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 437-446
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Public Housing Construction Quality Management Iso 9000 Quality Assessment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024851
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024851
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:437-446
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: B. T. Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: B. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: N. Denis
Author-X-Name-First: N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Denis
Title: An investigation into the merits of encouraging conflict in the construction industry
Abstract:
Considerable energy is being directed towards an indiscriminate policy of
conflict reduction in the construction industry but the problem of
construction conflict may be in its management rather than in its
incidence. Conflict reduction is a response to the industry's inability to
manage conflict constructively, and it may be more productive to focus
upon building skills in this area as a basis for encouraging conflict.
This paper explores the merits of this idea. It does so by discussing the
results of a survey which used two psychometric tests to investigate
whether the industry has an attitudinal and socio-structural base which is
receptive to such efforts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 447-456
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Conflict Dispute Social Systems Attitudes Organizational Structure,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024860
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024860
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:447-456
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Wanous
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wanous
Author-Name: A. H. Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: A. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Author-Name: J. Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: To bid or not to bid: a parametric solution
Abstract:
One of the most important decisions that has to be made by construction
companies/contractors is whether or not to bid for a new project when an
invitation has been received. It would be of great help if a structured
model could be developed that deals systematically with different bidding
situations. A simple parametric solution for the ';bid/no bid' decision is
reported in this paper. This solution is based on the findings of six
semi-structured interviews and a formal questionnaire through which 38
factors that affect the bid/no bid decision were identified and ranked
according to their importance to contractors operating in Syria. Only the
most influential factors were considered in the development process. The
model was optimized using data about 162 real bidding situations. Then the
optimized model was tested using another 20 real projects. It proved 85%
accurate in simulating the actual decisions. Although, the proposed model
is based on data from the Syrian construction industry it could be
modified very easily to suit other countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 457-466
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Bidno Bid Criteria Parametric Bidding Model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024879
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024879
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:457-466
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Aviad Shapira
Author-X-Name-First: Aviad
Author-X-Name-Last: Shapira
Author-Name: Dov Goldfinger
Author-X-Name-First: Dov
Author-X-Name-Last: Goldfinger
Title: Work-input model for assembly and disassembly of high shoring towers
Abstract:
High shoring towers, the common shoring solution for high clearance
construction, cause the entire formwork system to account for a remarkably
high percentage of the cost of the constructed concrete element. However,
data on work inputs in assembly and disassembly of high towers are scarce,
and the reason lies in the difficulty in conducting the numerous work
studies that would be needed to cover the wide variety of tower types
offered by the market and the extensive range of heights to which towers
are erected. A model is presented, based on a limited number of work
studies, for the prediction of work inputs in the assembly and disassembly
of shoring towers of two configurations, rising to heights of up to 30 m.
Results of actual measured work input data for three tower models
representing three tower types widely used on construction sites are
presented. An insight is provided into the anatomy of tower erection,
which should make possible use of the proposed methodology for the
development of similar models for additional tower types.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 467-477
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Formwork Shoring Towers Work Inputs Work Studies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024888
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024888
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:467-477
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Quantifying the causes and costs of rework in construction
Abstract:
Very few construction companies and consulting firms in Australia measure
their costs of quality. Consequently, it is difficult for them to prove
that systems for preventing quality failures are cost-effective. Although
the direct costs of a quality system can be quantified with some accuracy
(salaries, costs of documentation, audits, etc.), the corresponding
benefits are far more difficult to assess. Indeed quality failures have
become an endemic feature of the procurement process in construction and
invariably lead to time and cost overruns in projects. Thus, in order to
improve the performance of projects it is necessary to identify the causes
and costs rework. The research presented in this paper quantifies the
causes, magnitude and costs of rework experienced in two construction
projects that were procured using different contractual arrangements. The
causes and costs of rework projects are analysed and discussed. The
findings reveal that the cost of rework for the case study projects was
3.15% and 2.40% of their project contract value. Changes initiated by the
client and end-user together with errors and omissions in contract
documentation were found to be the primary causes of rework. It is
recommended that construction companies and consultant firms (particularly
design consultants) implement quality management practices as well as
place emphasis on coordinating project documentation during the design
development process so that the amount of rework in projects can be
reduced or even eliminated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 479-490
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Australia Quality Costs Prevention Rework,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024897
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024897
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:479-490
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. H. M. Tah
Author-X-Name-First: J. H. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tah
Author-Name: V. Carr
Author-X-Name-First: V.
Author-X-Name-Last: Carr
Title: A proposal for construction project risk assessment using fuzzy logic
Abstract:
The construction industry is plagued by risk and often has suffered poor
performance as a result. There are a number of risk management techniques
available to help alleviate this, but usually these are based on
operational research techniques developed in the 1960s, and for the most
part have failed to meet the needs of project managers. In this paper, a
hierarchical risk breakdown structure representation is used to develop a
formal model for qualitative risk assessment. A common language for
describing risks is presented which includes terms for quantifying
likelihoods and impacts so as to achieve consistent quantification. The
relationships between risk factors, risks and their consequences are
represented on cause and effect diagrams. These diagrams and the concepts
of fuzzy association and fuzzy composition are applied to identify
relationships between risk sources and the consequences for project
performance measures. A methodology for evaluating the risk exposure,
considering the consequences in terms of time, cost, quality, and safety
performance measures of a project based on fuzzy estimates of the risk
components is presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 491-500
Issue: 4
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Projects Common Language Fuzzy Logic Project Performance Qualitative Risk Assessment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190050024905
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190050024905
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:4:p:491-500
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Landin
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Landin
Title: ISO 9001 within the Swedish construction sector
Abstract:
This study analysed how the ISO 9000 framework could be employed in the
construction process. Interviews were conducted at twelve companies in
Sweden that utilized the quality system standard ISO 9001. Many of the
concepts contained in the quality system standard were experienced as
being too abstract and too difficult to comprehend. Frequently quality
mangement was considered as serving the function of improving the
company's competitiveness and allowing the company to be more efficient.
It appeared difficult, however, in view of the many stages the
construction process encompasses and the diverging interests represented,
to meet the needs of the construction sector by the use of ISO 9001 alone.
Some of the paragraphs it contains also tended to be confused with one
another and to be misinterpreted. Others, although useful elsewhere,
appeared scarcely to find application in the construction sector.
Developments in the area appear to be going in the direction away from
using large bureaucratic inspection systems and quality handbooks aimed at
impressing customers and towards employing more diversified systems.
Certification was found to be a matter of concern to all of the companies
investigated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-518
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Quality Management Construction Certification Iso 9000,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407310
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407310
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:509-518
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henry Odeyinka
Author-X-Name-First: Henry
Author-X-Name-Last: Odeyinka
Title: An evaluation of the use of insurance in managing construction risks
Abstract:
One of the major methods of managing construction risks in the Nigerian
construction industry is the insurance method. On the basis of data from
some selected construction sites in Nigeria, this paper evaluates the
effectiveness of the method. Also it identifies, through a questionnaire
survey, the various insurable construction risks perceived to be
encountered in the Nigerian construction industry and the types of
insurance policy employed in managing them. High importance is placed by
the construction industry on site security, construction risk, and health
and welfare requirements, and the use of an all-risk insurance policy is
the most prominent method for managing the identified risks. Finally it is
concluded that there is a correlation between insured sum and actual
replacement cost when there are losses or damages. However, the insurance
claims settled could cater for only 61.1% of the replacement cost of
on-going construction works studied.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-524
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Insurance Construction Risk Contractors Construction Industry Nigeria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407329
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407329
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:519-524
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mats Holm
Author-X-Name-First: Mats
Author-X-Name-Last: Holm
Title: Service management in housing refurbishment: a theoretical approach
Abstract:
It is unusual to find that housing refurbishment projects have been
undertaken with a clear focus on customer orientation directed towards the
tenants, or owners of cooperative flats or condominiums. Only recently
have researchers in construction management begun to look closer at the
relationship between contractors and customers. To assess the scope for
customer orientation in the refurbishment industry, current thinking in
service management is reviewed here in an attempt to identify principles
with implications for housing refurbishment. There is a consensus among
service management investigators that services are intangible; other often
mentioned characteristics are heterogeneity, perishability, and the
inseparability of production and consumption. Except for inseparability
these characteristics are valid for refurbishment. Nevertheless, features
such as the long turn-round time, the number of participants, the
complexity and the uncertainty, distinguish housing refurbishment from
most services. There is strong empirical support for the claim that
customer satisfaction increases customer loyalty and gives the service
producer a positive reputation, ultimately increasing profitability. It is
concluded that this insight can be interpreted operationally for housing
refurbishment projects, bearing in mind that the tenant or the owner of a
cooperative flat is the customer's customer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 525-533
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Housing Refurbishment Customer Satisfaction Service Quality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407338
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:525-533
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Nicholas
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicholas
Author-Name: G. D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: G. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: M. Mihsein
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mihsein
Title: Contractor financial credit limits; their derivation and implications for materials suppliers
Abstract:
Current methodologies for 'calculating' contractors' credit limits (for
supply of construction materials) are discussed and critically appraised.
It is highlighted that credit limit imposition should be a function of a
supplier's financial characteristics as well as potential debtors'
probability of defaulting upon repayment. A conceptually new approach is
presented to identify whether an additional contractor's trade results in
a worthwhile gain in utility for the supplier. It is identified, inter
alia, that (i) allowing very few contractors credit facilities that
account for a large proportion of suppliers' potential profits, (ii)
having inaccurate creditworthiness evaluation procedures, and (iii)
operating on low targeted profit margins are the characteristics that
inflict maximum financial risk upon materials suppliers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-545
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Contractors' Credit Limits Debtors Materials Suppliers Risk Utility Theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407347
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407347
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:535-545
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick Sik-Wah Fong
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick Sik-Wah
Author-X-Name-Last: Fong
Author-Name: Sonia Kit-Yung Choi
Author-X-Name-First: Sonia Kit-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Choi
Title: Final contractor selection using the analytical hierarchy process
Abstract:
Some contractor selection methods currently in existence are criticized
as incomplete and biased, and lacking consideration in terms of the
contractor's ability to achieve simultaneously, time, cost, quality and
safety standards. This research examines an alternative contractor
selection model called the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), which will
help construction clients to identify contractors with the best potential
to deliver satisfactory outcomes in a final contractor selection process
which is not based simply on the lowest bid. The AHP comprises three
parts: hierarchic structure, prioritization procedure, and calculation of
results. This model is tested by a hypothetical scenario where three
contractor candidates are evaluated. The criteria used for contractor
selection in the model have been identified, and the significance of each
criterion has been arrived at by conducting a questionnaire survey in
public organizations in Hong Kong. Comparisons are made by ranking the
aggregate scores of each candidate with regard to their performance
against each of the criteria, and the candidate associated with the
highest scores is the best contractor on this occasion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 547-557
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Analytical Hierarchy Process Contractor Selection Prequalification Final Selection Tender Price,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:547-557
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Chin Chin Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Chin Chin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Occupational stereotypes in the construction industry
Abstract:
An investigation of occupational stereotypes in the construction industry
provides insights into the perceptions and expectations which different
occupational groups have of each other. The results are valuable in the
reduction of uncertainty, misunderstanding and conflict within
construction projects and do not support the widely held view of
institutionalized confrontational relationships. Instead, there appears to
be a natural degree of goodwill underlying interpersonal relationships
although it is delicate, precarious and easily destroyed by insensitive
managerial practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 559-566
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Stereotypes Culture Values Attitudes Beliefs Communication Conflict,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407365
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407365
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:559-566
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: Purnendu Mandal
Author-X-Name-First: Purnendu
Author-X-Name-Last: Mandal
Author-Name: Jim Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Modelling the dynamics of design error induced rework in construction
Abstract:
Rework that is experienced in construction projects is often caused by
errors made during the design process. Factors that contribute to design
errors are identified and used to design and develop a systems dynamics
model, which is used to simulate a number of practical scenarios that can
be used to reduce design errors and rework. The model presented in this
paper can enable design and project managers to understand better the
process of design documentation and how design errors occur in
construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 567-574
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: System Dynamics Design Management Time Boxing Design Errors Rework,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407374
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407374
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:567-574
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. K. Munns
Author-X-Name-First: A. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Munns
Author-Name: K. M. Al-Haimus
Author-X-Name-First: K. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Haimus
Title: Estimating using cost significant global cost models
Abstract:
Cost significant models have been suggested as one way of overcoming
criticisms of the amount of detail contained within the traditional bill
of quantities. Recent research into these models reveals a lack of formal
rules for the selection of work packages to be used within the models, and
a potential to overestimate the cost of projects. This paper presents a
methodology for selecting work packages, and recommends a refinement to
the technique that reduces the variability in estimates produced using
cost significance. Estimates are produced using both the traditional
method of producing cost significant models, and a refined global cost
methodology. Both techniques are tested against unpriced bills to measure
the difference in results, with significant improvements being achieved
with the new technique.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 575-585
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Bill Of Quantities Cost Estimating Cost Modelling Cost Significance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407383
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407383
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:575-585
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Author-Name: Nick Marshall
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Marshall
Title: Motivation, commitment and the use of incentives in partnerships and alliances
Abstract:
The use of incentives in partnering and alliancing has been seen as an
important way of reinforcing collaboration in the short term and helping
to build trust between clients and contractors in the long term. Yet only
rarely has the impact of incentives on such relationships been discussed,
let alone subjected to systematic investigation. This is despite a wealth
of theory and research which brings into question the use of incentives
and reinforcers as ways of generating motivation and commitment. Drawing
upon this theoretical knowledge base and using evidence from a number of
case studies of partnerships and alliances, this paper demonstrates how a
number of important cognitive and social dimensions affect the use and
impact of incentives, sometimes in ways contrary to those intended. The
conclusion drawn is that there are important limitations to the use of
incentives as means of reinforcing collaboration and developing commitment
and trust, and that this raises questions more generally about the
assumptions that underlie many of the practical 'tools and techniques'
commonly associated with partnering and alliancing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 587-598
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Partnering Alliancing Incentives Motivation Commitment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407392
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407392
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:587-598
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Hoxley
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoxley
Title: Are competitive fee tendering and construction professional service quality mutually exclusive?
Abstract:
It is a little more than 15 years since the associations representing
construction professionals in the UK surrendered to government pressure
and abolished mandatory fee scales, predicting as they did so that
inevitably abolition would lead to a decline in the standard of service
provided to clients. Initially the abolition of fee scales had little
impact on fee levels - in the UK economic and property boom of the late
1980s demand from clients in all sectors was high and fee levels remained
at, or close to, pre-abolition levels. However, in the recession that
followed, fee levels fell to unprecedentedly low levels, causing many
commentators to be concerned that the quality of service provided to
clients would fall. The main aim of this research is to establish whether
clients' perceptions of service quality have declined as a result of lower
fee scales. Following a literature search five hypotheses are presented
namely, that clients' perceptions of service quality are: lower for fee
tendered commissions; lower when the fee bid is particularly competitive;
higher when the service is adequately specified by the client; higher when
care has been taken with preselection of tenderers; and higher when
adequate weighting to ability is given in the final selection process. The
hypotheses have been tested by collecting data from 244 clients who
anonymously assessed consultants, 60% of whom were chartered surveyors
(just over half of these were quantity surveyors). Over half of the
consultants were appointed by competitive fee tender, and although the
service quality scores were lower for these consultants this result was
not statistically significant. Therefore, the main hypothesis is not
supported by the data but the fourth and fifth hypotheses are both
supported by the study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 599-605
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Professionals Fee Tendering Service Quality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407400
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407400
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:599-605
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goh Bee Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh Bee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hua
Author-Name: Teo Ho Pin
Author-X-Name-First: Teo Ho
Author-X-Name-Last: Pin
Title: Forecasting construction industry demand, price and productivity in Singapore: the Box-Jenkins approach
Abstract:
In academic research, the traditional Box-Jenkins approach is widely
acknowledged as a benchmark technique for univariate methods because of
its structured modelling basis and acceptable forecasting performance.
This study examines the versatility of this approach by applying it to
analyse and forecast three distinct variables of the construction
industry, namely, tender price, construction demand and productivity,
based on case studies of Singapore. In order to assess the adequacy of the
Box-Jenkins approach to construction industry forecasting, the models
derived are evaluated on their predictive accuracy based on out-of-sample
forecasts. Two measures of accuracy are adopted, the root
mean-square-error (RMSE) and the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE).
The conclusive findings of the study include: (1) the prediction RMSE of
all three models is consistently smaller than the model's standard error,
implying the models' good predictive performance; (2) the prediction MAPE
of all three models consistently falls within the general acceptable limit
of 10%; and (3) among the three models, the most accurate is the demand
model which has the lowest MAPE, followed by the price model and the
productivity model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 607-618
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Box-JENKINS Approach Forecasting Construction Demand Tender Price Productivity Accuracy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407419
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407419
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:607-618
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Crosthwaite
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Crosthwaite
Title: The global construction market: a cross-sectional analysis
Abstract:
Construction is a major industry throughout the world accounting for a
sizeable proportion of most countries gross domestic product (GDP).
According to a recent survey, total world construction spending in 1998
was over $3 trillion. Furthermore the importance of the construction
sector is related not only to its size but also to its role in economic
development. This paper examines the extent of international construction
activity, and is based on a cross-sectional analysis of published data
pertaining to global construction spending. The principal findings suggest
that the role of construction changes as economic development proceeds. It
was found that the share of construction spending in GDP first grows
during less developed country (LDC) status, peaks during newly
industrializing country (NIC) status and then declines as countries move
from NIC to advanced industrialized country (AIC) status. The research
identifies the importance of construction within NICs. The regions of Asia
and Latin America and the countries of China, Mexico, Argentina and Egypt
are considered noteworthy in regard to various indicators concerned with
construction and economic activity. However, the conclusion is that as
economic development proceeds from NIC to AIC status construction fails to
maintain its share of GDP and therefore declines in importance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 619-627
Issue: 5
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Global Construction Activity Cross-SECTIONAL Analysis Economic Development Regional Markets National Markets,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900407428
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900407428
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:5:p:619-627
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lars Huemer
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Huemer
Author-Name: Katarina Östergren
Author-X-Name-First: Katarina
Author-X-Name-Last: Östergren
Title: Strategic change and organizational learning in two 'Swedish' construction firms
Abstract:
The two largest construction companies in Sweden, NCC and
Skanska, previously have acted according to what here is called a
multi-domestic strategy. Such a strategy implies that each market is
treated essentially in isolation. Due to perceived pressures for local
responsiveness, the firms have focused on utilizing local knowledge and
experience, while failing to obtain economies of scale and to learn from
the different localities. A combination of changing perceptions of being
local and a growing number of home markets makes possible a strategic
approach that is inter-domestic in nature. This approach stresses the
importance of learning and of coordinating the experience a construction
firm achieves in many different localities. Therefore learning is seen not
only as a process of adaptation to the environment, but also as an
evolutionary process built on an organization's identity, which is created
by both structural and individual factors. The identity of an organization
helps us to understand its ability to learn.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-642
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414682
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414682
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:635-642
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sihem Ben Mahmoud-Jouini
Author-X-Name-First: Sihem Ben
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahmoud-Jouini
Title: Innovative supply-based strategies in the construction industry
Abstract:
In the construction industry demand drives the design process
and as a result design is structured in order to respond to this demand.
However, what happens when this demand breaks down, when traditional
markets are saturated, and no feasible alternative arises? Will this
sector be capable of refocusing their efforts on creating new products to
offer? Is it possible for industry participants to adopt a proactive
strategy? These questions are investigated and it is seen that the French
construction industry, and in particular major contractors, illustrate the
problem perfectly. Examples are analysed of innovative offerings in this
industry, two groups of which could be developed further.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 643-650
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414691
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414691
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:643-650
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ezio Micelli
Author-X-Name-First: Ezio
Author-X-Name-Last: Micelli
Title: Mobilizing the skills of specialist firms to reduce costs and enhance performance in the European construction industry: two case studies
Abstract:
Analyses are made of procurement strategies capable of
leading to cost reduction and higher quality through the contribution of
specialized firms. An exploration is made of the literature concerning the
procurement of manufactured goods and progress by analysing two case
studies: the East Bridge of the Storebælt link and the Grand Canal
Maritime bridge. Both these projects adopted procurement systems that led
to a learning process capable of enhancing performance and reducing
overall costs. It is evident that the success of learning-oriented
procurement strategies relies on two major conditions. First, the client's
tender must be issued with an open design demanding an active contribution
from the firms involved in the construction process. Second, the firms
bidding for the job must be able to manage two distinct sets of skills:
the technical skills relating to a specific production process and the
ability to connect these skills to the client's needs through a co-design
process, or what is known as the strategic intermediation function.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 651-656
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414709
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414709
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:651-656
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. G. Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: D. G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Author-Name: G. D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: G. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Title: A theoretical model for optimum project (time) performance based on European best practice
Abstract:
The authors have over recent years performed extensive
empirical research into European (UK, French and German) construction
contractor performance. This paper represents the culmination of that
research, by presenting a model for achieving optimum project time
performance based on European best practice. By removing or neutralizing
the impact of external factors (e.g. procurement method), the research
concentrated on contractor practices and their direct impact on
construction time performance. A variety of European contractor
performance data were analysed to identify optimum solutions (i.e.
contractors, construction practices) for achieving fastest project
completion. The principal theme of the paper is graphical presentation and
description of a theoretical model for optimum project (time) performance
based on European best practice. Further, characteristics of UK, French
and German variants of the model are presented. The application of
multiple regression analysis to the data suggests that there are other
factors, not embraced by the model, that may also impact significantly
upon construction time performance. European contractors and clients may
wish to consider the characteristics of these model(s) in striving to
achieve earliest project completion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 657-665
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414718
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:657-665
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Henry
Author-X-Name-First: Eric
Author-X-Name-Last: Henry
Title: Quality management standardization in the French construction industry: singularities and internationalization prospects
Abstract:
Over the last 10 years quality management in the French
construction industry has triggered a range of innovative ideas spanning
all professions, ideas that have been developed further through
action-research. The creation of quality clubs is one of the first
examples of this, followed by the setting up of professional quality
assurance references based on the ISO 9002 Standard, to be used first and
foremost by construction contractors (QUALIBAT), but also by architects
(AQC and QUALIARCH), and finally clients (QUALIMO). The clubs and QUALIBAT
are today experiencing either a decrease in activity or a growth-caused
crisis, made all the worse by the devastating effects of a long, drawn-out
activity crisis which lasted from 1993 until 1998 and led to widespread
abnormally low prices. A new impetus has been given to the sector by the
Construction Branch of the French Movement for Quality (MFQ) through the
combined force of the clubs experience and the development of professional
quality references. The innovation consists of drawing up an experimental
standard for quality management in the construction industry and actively
participating in revising the ISO 9000 Standards for the year 2000.
Although specifically French, other countries in southern Europe and Latin
America with whom there has been regular contact since 1996 are interested
in this initiative.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 667-677
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414727
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414727
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:667-677
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jean-Luc Guffond
Author-X-Name-First: Jean-Luc
Author-X-Name-Last: Guffond
Author-Name: Gilbert Leconte
Author-X-Name-First: Gilbert
Author-X-Name-Last: Leconte
Title: Developing construction logistics management: the French experience
Abstract:
To recover from the construction crisis, major French
construction firms started developing 'package building' strategies at
the beginning of the 1990s. Today, their desire to open up continues, but
they have also shown renewed interest in the management of construction
site activities and production engineering, as witnessed by the practices
of 'logistics management'. How can we justify this inward-looking attitude
to construction? What place is there for innovation? Along what lines must
this new approach to production management develop? These questions are
addressed with reference to the analysis recently produced by a panel of
experts led by the authors. The study of various experimental construction
sites shows that although it may not yet be well established, this
approach has resulted in significant changes in the way construction
projects are organized. It places the emergence of new forms of
coordination both within and between firms right at the heart of the quest
for production efficiency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 679-687
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414736
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414736
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:679-687
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Christine Wall
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Wall
Title: Craft versus industry: the division of labour in European housing construction
Abstract:
Two distinct divisions and concepts of labour are apparent
from an analysis of social housebuilding sites in the UK, Germany and the
Netherlands: the craft form, based on controlling the output of labour;
and the industry form, based on the quality of labour input. These are
associated with different work processes, skills and training, and also
different levels of mechanization and component prefabrication. In the UK,
which is craft-based, low levels of mechanization and prefabrication were
found compared with Germany and the Netherlands, and the range of
activities for the separate trades in assembling superstructure elements
was simpler. Labourers are distinct from craftsmen and remain a
significant group. Skills are narrow and training provision low. A high
proportion of the labour force remains self-employed, under labour-only
subcontractors, working to price or output. In comparison, in Germany and
the Netherlands labour is employed directly and work processes are more
complex, with more specialisms at the interfaces. The division of labour
is industry-wide, training provision is extensive, and skills are broad
and integrated into the grading structure. Greater speed, higher
productivity and lower levels of supervision are associated with
industry-wide systems compared with traditional craft forms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 689-698
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414745
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414745
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:689-698
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Druker
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Druker
Author-Name: Richard Croucher
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Croucher
Title: National collective bargaining and employment flexibility in the European building and civil engineering industries
Abstract:
Change in employment practice in the European construction
industry is reviewed with particular attention to the effects of flexible
working on established arrangements for national collective bargaining.
Data derive from European survey research coordinated by Cranfield School
of Management in 1995 and from interviews with trade union and employers
association representatives in the same period. Membership and support for
trade unions and employers associations has weakened, although there are
significant differences between countries. The most significant changes in
employment practice in construction are found in the increased use of
temporary, short term and fixed term contracts; in subcontracting, and in
the use of overtime. These changing working practices tend to fragment the
workforce and to undermine established systems of institutional interest
representation. The distinctive commitment of UK employers to temporary or
casual work and to subcontracting is confirmed. The changes contribute to
pressure on arrangements established through multi-employer bargaining,
although employers and trade union representatives remained committed, at
the time of our research, to multi-employer collective agreements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 699-709
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900414754
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461900414754
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:699-709
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: ]ÖRN JANSSEN
Author-X-Name-First: ]ÖRN
Author-X-Name-Last: JANSSEN
Title: The European construction industry and its competitiveness: a construct of the European Commission
Abstract:
The 'European construction industry' is a fiction that tends
to obscure its heterogeneous character and to mar studies and policies of
the European Commission aimed at improving the internal and external
'competitiveness' of the sector. In order to assess the process of
integration in Europe under the impact of its own dynamics as well as
Union policies, this paper looks at the dynamics of the sector from three
different aspects: as investment, production and labour process. It shows,
in particular, the persistent regional and social disparities dividing the
industry into separate entities. Political attention tends to focus on a
small number of construction companies competing for a few projects which
represent the European dimension. Yet, these companies still rely on their
respective national bases and local labour from the place where
construction is carried out. Persistent divisions between the states are
also reflected in the low level of transnational organization of the
construction industry. The policy of the European Commission generally
ignores these divisions and attempts to establish principles intended to
make a whole sector more 'competitive', while its component parts,
operating at hugely different levels of productivity, do not even meet on
the same market. This paper argues that, instead of trying in vain to
introduce a 'knock-out' system of competition in the EU Member States, a
targeted approach might help raise productivity in lagging regions and
thus improve the basis of competitiveness on global markets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-720
Issue: 6
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2000.10800483
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2000.10800483
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:6:p:711-720
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paolo Tombesi
Author-X-Name-First: Paolo
Author-X-Name-Last: Tombesi
Title: Modelling the dynamics of design error induced rework in construction: comment
Abstract:
The bridging of different research disciplines such as computer modelling
and design practice requires full understanding of both. Privileging one
area of investigation while simplifying the other is not a feasible
option. This approach is likely to produce work that scarcely reflects the
actual complexity of the phenomena discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 727-732
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Design Research Design Management Design Process Design Documentation Design Labour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433014
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433014
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:727-732
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Ball
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Ball
Author-Name: Mahtab Farshchi
Author-X-Name-First: Mahtab
Author-X-Name-Last: Farshchi
Author-Name: Maurizio Grilli
Author-X-Name-First: Maurizio
Author-X-Name-Last: Grilli
Title: Competition and the persistence of profits in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
An examination has been made of the performance of a range of medium-size
publicly quoted construction firms over the five-year period 1990-1994
including evidence on the competitive nature of construction markets. The
results suggest that construction markets are price competitive with
mark-ups that vary positively with the construction cycle. Common
arguments that competition in construction is excessive and that firms can
gain from firm specific strategies are not supported by the analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 733-745
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Competition Medium-SIZE Price Competitive Excessive,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433023
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433023
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:733-745
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Maggie Davidson
Author-X-Name-First: Maggie
Author-X-Name-Last: Davidson
Author-Name: Philip Leather
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Leather
Title: Choice or necessity? A review of the role of DIY in tackling housing repair and maintenance
Abstract:
Do-it-yourself (DIY) is a staple element of the spare time activities of
many households, but little is known about the extent to which basic
repair work is carried out through DIY and about the quality of this work.
Through secondary analyses of UK government data (English House Condition
Survey and Family Expenditure Survey), this paper examines the scale of
DIY work by owner-occupiers, how work is organized, the interrelationship
of DIY work, the use of unpaid help, and the use of contractors. It
considers the types of work carried out, the characteristics of those who
tackle DIY or use unpaid help, the dwelling types most likely to
experience DIY work, and the motivations of and constraints on those
home-owners who do it. The paper concludes with a discussion on the policy
implications of these findings for government and the building industry.
Although most DIY work is cosmetic and does not deal with basic repair and
maintenance, the sheer scale of DIY ensures that it makes a contribution
to improving housing conditions. The provision of more advice, information
and education by government, local authorities and the private sector
could ensure that more DIY work is of better quality and that home owners
give priority to essential repairs whether or not they tackle these
themselves.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 747-756
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Building Do-IT-YOURSELF Housing Maintenance Repair,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433032
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433032
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:747-756
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Chin Chin Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Chin Chin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Occupational bias in construction management research
Abstract:
Biased research results occur when allowances are not made for the
cultural perspectives of researchers and respondents. Occupation is a
strong source of cultural differentiation in the construction industry,
and this paper investigates the potential for bias to arise from people's
association with a particular group. A model of occupational stereotypes
is presented which expands our current understanding of how different
professions perceive each other. This is useful in a research context
because it provides a firmer foundation for the interpretation of past
research results. Furthermore, it enables researchers to understand the
potential for bias to arise from their own occupational backgrounds and to
acknowledge these in their research results. A series of suggestions are
made which may help researchers reduce occupational bias in their
research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 757-766
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Research Bias Occupation Culture Beliefs Attitudes Stereotypes,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433041
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433041
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:757-766
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chee Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Chee
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: Patricia Cooper
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooper
Title: Lowest price or value? Investigation of UK construction clients' tender selection process
Abstract:
There is a growing urge for a shift from 'lowest-price wins' to
'multi-criteria selection' practices in the contractor selection process.
The rationale is to achieve best value (for money) for the client. Earlier
investigations have found that the tender price (i.e. capital cost) still
dominates the final selection decision despite increased emphases on the
need for contractor selection based on 'value'. This paper provides
insights into the evaluation of contractors' attributes, particularly for
project-specific criteria (PSC), that is, criteria against which tendering
contractors may be considered. The importance attached by clients to the
'lowestprice wins' philosophy is also reported. The perceived importance
of PSC (i.e. their influence on final selection choice) is determined
through a structured questionnaire survey of UK construction clients. The
results show an increasing use of PSC. It is also found that
'lowest-price' is not now necessarily the client's principal selection
criterion, but rather, the realization that cost has to be tempered with
evaluation of PSC in any attempt to identify value for money.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 767-774
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Contractor Selection Lowest-PRICE Tender Multi-CRITERIA Selection Project-SPECIFIC Criteria Tender Evaluation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433050
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433050
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:767-774
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. A. Langford
Author-X-Name-First: D. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Author-Name: H. El-Tigani
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Tigani
Author-Name: M. Marosszeky
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Marosszeky
Title: Does quality assurance deliver higher productivity?
Abstract:
This paper seeks to assess whether the implementation of formal quality
schemes in the construction industry delivers higher productivity when
measured at site level. The work reports an experiment in which the
resources used by construction contractors to build housing association
houses varied in accordance with the level of formal quality certification
held by the contractors. It concludes that formally assured organizations
use fewer resources to create the same output.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 775-782
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Quality Assurance Housebuilding Productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433069
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433069
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:775-782
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: Sunil Dissanayaka
Author-X-Name-First: Sunil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dissanayaka
Title: ISO 9000 and beyond: from a Hong Kong construction perspective
Abstract:
Client driven 'pushes' for ISO 9000 certification in Hong Kong are
observed to have overtaken any spontaneous 'pull factors' (motivators)
towards quality improvements 'for their own sake'. For example, the need
for ISO 9000 certification as a prerequisite for even being considered for
public sector construction works appears to have distracted some
organizations from a more comprehensive organization-specific development
of their quality management systems. Both positive (beneficial) and
negative (detrimental) outcomes from ISO 9000 certification, as observed
from relevant previous studies, are summarized herein. These provide a
useful background against which to present perceptions derived from the
current study in Hong Kong construction. The target groups were
predominantly from consultants in the initial survey and all from
contractors in the second and more comprehensive survey. The more
significant positive and negative outcomes from ISO 9000 certification as
derived from the two current surveys are identified. Recommendations are
made for realigned approaches to ISO 9000 certification and for seamless
integration with other quality management approaches such as TQM, as well
as with other management subsystems, such as for productivity improvement
and dispute minimization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 783-796
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Hong Kong Integration Iso 9000 Tqm Quality Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433078
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433078
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:783-796
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: E. S. Wong
Author-X-Name-First: E. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Danny Then
Author-X-Name-First: Danny
Author-X-Name-Last: Then
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Antecedents of trust in intra-organizational relationships within three Singapore public sector construction project management agencies
Abstract:
This paper examines the role and nature of trust in construction project
management performance. Three causes, or antecedents, of trust are
identified: results, integrity and concern. A questionnaire survey of
construction project team members employed by three public sector
infrastructure organizations in Singapore is described. The results
confirm the expected correlations. Concluding remarks suggest that
enlightened management is needed to keep the three antecedents in
reasonable balance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 797-806
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Trust Results Integrity Concern Performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433087
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433087
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:797-806
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Innovativeness in British and French construction: the evidence from Transmanche-Link
Abstract:
This paper addresses the 'innovativeness' (the extent to which the design
of the organization facilitates or inhibits innovation) of French and
British project organizations. Following a review of the literature on
organization design and innovativeness, data from a comparative
organizational assessment of the British and French approaches to managing
the Channel Tunnel construction project by Transmanche-Link are presented.
These show that the British approach could well have less capacity for
innovation than the French. The available evidence on the relative levels
of innovation on the two sides of the Channel Tunnel are reviewed, showing
that the predicted effects are found.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 807-817
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: French Construction British Construction Channel Tunnel Major Projects Construction Innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433096
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433096
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:807-817
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Author-Name: Nick Marshall
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Marshall
Title: Building partnerships: case studies of client-contractor collaboration in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Despite the enormous groundswell of interest in partnering and alliancing
in recent years, there has been comparatively little research that has set
out to investigate systematically the nature, feasibility, benefits and
limitations of forms of client-contractor collaboration. This is despite
the growing recognition that conditions conducive to partnering may well
vary considerably and that partnering may not be the solution for problems
within the industry that many commentators have taken it to be. This paper
sets out to add to the growing literature and empirical database on
partnering by reporting the findings of a research project designed to
explore the economic, organizational and technological factors that
encourage or inhibit collaboration in practice. The paper follows on from
an earlier review and critique of the literature on partnering (Bresnen,
M. and Marshall, N. 2000, Construction Management and Economics, 18 (2)
229-237). It includes as its database nine case studies of
medium-to-large-scale projects, selected from across the industry, on
which processes of collaboration are examined from the viewpoints of
clients, contractors, designers and subcontractors. In contrast to much of
the prescriptive work in this area, the analysis of the data and the
paper's conclusions stress some of the practical problems, limitations and
paradoxes of partnering and alliancing when the effects of important
economic, organizational and psychological factors are taken into account.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 819-832
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Management Partnering Alliancing Clients,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433104
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433104
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:819-832
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Guinevere Smithers
Author-X-Name-First: Guinevere
Author-X-Name-Last: Smithers
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: The effect of the workplace on motivation and demotivation of construction professionals
Abstract:
Investigations have been carried out which suggest that motivation of
employees in all industries is affected by the environment or culture in
which they work. Research undertaken in Melbourne, Australia investigated
the effect of the workplace environment encountered on a construction site
on motivation and demotivation of construction professionals. The data
collected supported the hypothesis that the environment of a construction
site does affect demotivation levels of site personnel. Specifically,
several variables were significantly linked to this result, including long
hours, chaos, non-recognition for work done and colleagues' aggressive
management style. The results provide a valuable basis for indicating how
the construction industry can create a more attractive workplace
environment for professional site staff.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 833-841
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Culture Motivation Demotivation Management Workplace,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433113
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433113
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:833-841
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Sai On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: R. Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: R. Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Ka Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Lai Yi Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Lai Yi
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Prediction of tender price index directional changes
Abstract:
A multivariate discriminant analysis is described, aimed at predicting
the direction of changes in the Hong Kong tender price index by utilizing
the patterns of change in eight leading economic indicators. Two
discriminant functions are derived which distinguish between 'upward',
'constant' and 'downward' index trends with a high degree of success. The
predictive power of the discriminant model is tested by means of a
simulated ex post holdout sample of eight index values. By comparing the
group centroids, seven of the cases are correctly classified. The hit rate
of the 'upward' and 'constant' groups is 100%, while the 'downward' group
has a hit rate of 75%, suggesting the 'downward' trend to be a more
difficult movement to predict. Despite this, the overall predictive
results are considerably better than those that would have occurred by
chance alone.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 843-852
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Tender Price Index Economic Indicators Trend Multivariate Discriminant Analysis Forecasts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433122
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433122
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:843-852
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. MacKenzie
Author-X-Name-First: S.
Author-X-Name-Last: MacKenzie
Author-Name: A. R. Kilpatrick
Author-X-Name-First: A. R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kilpatrick
Author-Name: A. Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Title: UK construction skills shortage response strategies and an analysis of industry perceptions
Abstract:
The construction industry is heavily dependent on the adequate supply of
a skilled labour force, and as a result the skilled labour shortage in the
UK has received considerable attention in recent years. With the current
economic recovery the industry is expected to experience considerable
skills shortages in both traditional and new skills areas. This paper
analyses the views of construction employers in relation to the response
strategies promoted by industry and government and identified in previous
research which tackle elements of the skills shortage problem within the
UK construction industry. The paper describes seven existing industry and
government schemes, and a further nine alternative response strategies to
the construction skills shortage. The survey analysis demonstrates that
construction employers support: (i) the Construction Skills Certification
Scheme, (ii) the Investors in People standard, (iii) economic stability
within the industry; (iv) long term industry-wide training plans, (v) a
return to direct employment; and (vi) the development of new technologies
and construction techniques. It is concluded that the effectiveness of
alternative response strategies is linked to the traditional approach of
most contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 853-862
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Labour Shortage Skills Response Strategies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433131
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433131
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:853-862
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Evaluation of enhanced design and build system - a case study of a hospital project
Abstract:
This study involves an investigation of a hospital project which adopted
an 'enhanced design and build' form of building procurement. The paper
assesses the procurement system from the perspectives of the client,
client's consultants, contractor, contractor's consultants, and
contractor's subcontractors. A detailed case study of North District
Hospital is described to illustrate the process of this procurement
system. All the interviewees generally agreed that the hospital project
was successful in meeting the time, cost, quality, functional and safety
requirements set by the client. As the first project adopting the
'enhanced design-build' procurement system in Hong Kong, the benefits of
applying this innovative procurement system were demonstrated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 863-871
Issue: 7
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Enhanced Design Build Procurement System Hospital Projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900433140
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900433140
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:7:p:863-871
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chiel Boonstra
Author-X-Name-First: Chiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Boonstra
Author-Name: Marjo Knapen
Author-X-Name-First: Marjo
Author-X-Name-Last: Knapen
Title: Knowledge infrastructure for sustainable building in The Netherlands
Abstract:
The article describes the development and expected future direction of
knowledge infrastructure pertaining to sustainable building in The
Netherlands with particular reference to two computer programs based on
lifecycle analyses: Eco-Quantum Residential and Eco-Quantum Research. The
first is a tool for architects to identify the environmental consequences
of different options, while Eco-Quantum Research allows for in-depth
analyses and therefore can be used for developing innovative designs. The
programs were made commercially available in November 1999 after testing
by practitioners and municipalities in The Netherlands. An example of the
design of an office building guided by Eco-Quantum is also given.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 885-891
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Building Code Construction Products Demolition Dismantling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010001193
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010001193
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:885-891
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anthony Lavers
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavers
Author-Name: David Shiers
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Shiers
Title: Construction law and environmental harm: the liability interface
Abstract:
Construction professionals are increasingly exposed to risk deriving from
legal responsibility for environmental harm. To assess the levels of
exposure to this risk, those involved in property need to understand the
impact of environmental issues upon construction law. Construction law
literature and specialist environmental law sources on construction can
provide a basis for study. The main themes found in these sources are
planning law, environmental protection, waste and waste management and
contamination, including water pollution, and these are reviewed. A study
of the litigation reported in the principal specialist construction law
sources reinforces the significance of these themes through the
identification of the case law embodying them. There are other areas of
impact and potential impact: visual/aesthetic harm, harm to acoustic
amenity, the use and removal of deleterious materials (such as asbestos)
and other 'indirect' risks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 893-902
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Environment Environmental Harm Liability Construction Law,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010001201
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010001201
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:893-902
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charles Kibert
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Kibert
Author-Name: Jan Sendzimir
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Sendzimir
Author-Name: Brad Guy
Author-X-Name-First: Brad
Author-X-Name-Last: Guy
Title: Construction ecology and metabolism: natural system analogues for a sustainable built environment
Abstract:
Applying the principles of sustainability to human activities ultimately
must result in the scrutiny of all sectors of economic activity to assess
the changes required to provide for a high quality of life for future
generations. A high priority for evaluation, in the light of its impacts
on environmental quality and resources, is industrial activity in general
and the construction industry specifically. The construction sector
consumes 40% of all extracted materials in the USA, and accounts for 30%
of national energy consumption for its operation. The sustainability of
this industrial sector is dependent on a fundamental shift in the way
resources are used, from non-renewables to renewables, from high levels of
waste to high levels of reuse and recycling, and from products based on
lowest first cost to those based on life-cycle costs and full cost
accounting, especially as applied to waste and emissions from the
industrial processes that support construction activity. The emerging
field of industrial ecology provides some insights into sustainability in
the built environment or sustainable construction. Construction, like
other industries, would benefit from observing the metabolic behaviour of
natural systems where sustainability is built in. This paper describes a
view of the construction industry based on natural systems and industrial
ecology for the purpose of beginning the discovery of how to shift the
construction industry and its supporting materials industries onto a path
much closer to the ideals of sustainability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 903-916
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Sustainability Resource Efficiency Sustainable Construction Industrial Ecology Industrial Metabolism Design For The Environment Construction Ecology Construction Metabolism,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446867
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900446867
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:903-916
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Graham
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Graham
Title: Building education for the next industrial revolution: teaching and learning environmental literacy for the building professions
Abstract:
Resource efficient design and construction, i.e. doing more with less,
contributes to decreasing the negative environmental implications of
resource consumption. However, the environmental effects of buildings
arise from the combination of many design and management decisions, and
good environmental design and construction can avoid more than just the
damage that flows from resource use. It is therefore important that
students of building professions learn how the many decisions they make
can help create ecology sustaining buildings, and this awareness begins in
the classroom. This paper proposes a model for teaching and learning
environmental literacy for tertiary students of building professions. It
also argues that, in comparison with a well recognized theory for language
learning, some of the conditions required for learning environmental
literacy may not be present in Australian tertiary institutions. This work
was commissioned for the Australian Council of Building Design Professions
for the Environment Design Guide and funded by EcoRecycle Victoria.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 917-925
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Environmental Literacy Building Professionals Teaching Learning Resource Efficiency Resource Awareness Sustainability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446876
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900446876
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:917-925
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lu Aye
Author-X-Name-First: Lu
Author-X-Name-Last: Aye
Author-Name: Nick Bamford
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Bamford
Author-Name: Bill Charters
Author-X-Name-First: Bill
Author-X-Name-Last: Charters
Author-Name: Jon Robinson
Author-X-Name-First: Jon
Author-X-Name-Last: Robinson
Title: Environmentally sustainable development: a life-cycle costing approach for a commercial office building in Melbourne, Australia
Abstract:
A range of property and construction options is analysed using standard
life-cycle costing methodology. The options are to renovate the existing
building, buy an alternative building and renovate, and buy a development
site and construct a new building. The do-nothing option and a
hypothetical option to construct a new building on an ideal site are
analysed as benchmarks. The results show that the optimum option is to buy
a suitable site and construct a new building and that the least
sustainable option, in the case study, is to stay in the existing property
and renovate the building. Although staying in the existing building and
doing nothing carries the lowest financial cost, energy consumption and
greenhouse emissions are significantly worse than for the alternative
options.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 927-934
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Building Accommodation Options Energy Efficiency Greenhouse Gas Emissions Life-CYCLE Costing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446885
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461900446885
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:927-934
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Clive Briffett
Author-X-Name-First: Clive
Author-X-Name-Last: Briffett
Author-Name: Gu Gang
Author-X-Name-First: Gu
Author-X-Name-Last: Gang
Author-Name: Malik Ranasinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Malik
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranasinghe
Title: Impact of ISO 14000 on construction enterprises in Singapore
Abstract:
As construction activity has a significant impact on the environment it
is vital to consider how to improve the environmental performance of
organizations in the construction industry. The ISO 14000 series of
standards on environmental management provides construction enterprises
with the tool to address in a structured manner the adverse impacts of
their operations and to attain sustainable construction. In this study, a
survey was conducted to ascertain the perceptions of construction
enterprises in Singapore on the impact of the implementation of ISO 14000
on their operations. Major problems were identified, and recommendations
are made for the future development of environmental management systems
(EMS) in the Singapore construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 935-947
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Construction Enterprises Environmental Impact Environmental Management Singapore Sustainable Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446894
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:935-947
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Cole
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Cole
Title: Building environmental assessment methods: assessing construction practices
Abstract:
This paper focuses on the environmental issues associated with the
building construction process and the way in which they are currently
represented in building environmental assessment methods. The primary goal
is to identify the practical and methodological reasons for their scant
inclusion and to offer arguments to redress this situation. Despite the
difficulties of assessing management practices, their inclusion within
building environmental assessment methods is critical from the standpoint
of reinforcing the relationship between building design and building
operation. Similar arguments relate to the importance of including
construction processes. The paper argues that construction issues should
be included, organized into consistent categories (e.g. resource use,
ecological loadings and health issues) and clearly partitioned within the
structure of assessment methods. If there are environmental benefits in
engaging a broader range of players earlier in the design process, then
this notion can logically be extended to include the contractor.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 949-957
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Best-PRACTICE Construction Practices Environment Environmental Assessment Environmental Management Systems Resource Use Ecological Loadings Health,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446902
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Author-Name: C. K. Chau
Author-X-Name-First: C. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chau
Author-Name: W. L. Lee
Author-X-Name-First: W. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: F. W. H. Yik
Author-X-Name-First: F. W. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yik
Author-Name: J. Burnett
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Burnett
Title: Towards a successful voluntary building environmental assessment scheme
Abstract:
Voluntary building assessment schemes have emerged worldwide to help
assess the environmental performance of buildings. As building
environmental assessment is a rapidly evolving field, the scope and
details of such assessment schemes are continuously undergoing updating
and refinement. Substantial efforts have been devoted to the design and
improvement of the assessment schemes to make them capable of defining an
objective building profile. Although most of the existing schemes are
voluntary, many fail to encourage participation of the building investors
and designers. In order to widen acceptance, the design of the scheme
should be oriented towards the manner in which investors make decisions.
This paper provides an overview of the vital elements and changes needed,
so as to make a voluntary building environmental assessment scheme more
attractive and successful, and will include reforms not only in the scope
and the credit weighting philosophy but also in its nature.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 959-968
Issue: 8
Volume: 18
Year: 2000
Keywords: Building Assessment Schemes Credit Weighting Scale Voluntary Schemes Sustainability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461900446911
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:18:y:2000:i:8:p:959-968
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Greenwood
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Greenwood
Title: Subcontract procurement: are relationships changing?
Abstract:
Recent publicity shows a shift in the attitude of main
contractors to subcontract procurement in the UK. However, a survey of the
specialist contractors' sector shows that this impression should be
approached with caution: the typical contractor - subcontractor
relationship is still traditional, cost-driven, and potentially
adversarial. Nevertheless, the co-existence of the two approaches is
consistent with the institutional theory of organizational strategy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-7
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010003380
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190010003380
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Y.C. Tse
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond Y.C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tse
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Title: The effects of money supply on construction flows
Abstract:
It is argued that money/credit supply is neutral with respect
to the real sector. Existing studies have focused on the relationship
between money supply and national output. However, this paper using data
from Hong Kong (first quarter 1983-second quarter 1997) examines the
extent to which fluctuations in the money supply cause (or Granger-cause)
fluctuations in real construction activity. Specifically, it is found
that: (i) construction activity flows and construction loans are
cointegrated, but their lead-lag relationship cannot be established; (ii)
there is a specific and strong causal relationship between the
construction activity and the broadly defined money supply M3; and (iii)
positive money-supply shocks have a larger effect on construction output
than negative money-supply shocks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 9-17
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901452049
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461901452049
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Fan
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Fan
Author-Name: Christabel Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Christabel
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Vincent Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Vincent
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: A study of quantity surveyors' ethical behaviour
Abstract:
Several contemporary theories of ethics are reviewed and then
linked to professional ethics. A questionnaire survey was conducted to
collect primary data regarding quantity surveyors' attitudes towards
professional ethics. The subjects were members of the Hong Kong Institute
of Surveyors (HKIS). Systematic multivariate statistical analyses, such as
ANOVA, F-distribution, and test for significance, were used to draw
insight from the survey results. A discrepancy in the standards of
professional ethics between senior and junior surveyors was found in the
survey. In addition, wide and significant variances towards ethical
concepts and decisionmaking considerations were found between senior and
young practitioners. The results also show that the respondents attach
great importance to the interest of their employers, their clients and
themselves, which is not in line with the expectations of the general
public. These findings provide useful information for researchers in
studying specific ethical decision-making models as well as drafting more
theoretically based rules of conduct.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 19-36
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901452058
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461901452058
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:19-36
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Davide Nicolini
Author-X-Name-First: Davide
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicolini
Author-Name: Richard Holti
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Holti
Author-Name: Mark Smalley
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Smalley
Title: Integrating project activities: the theory and practice of managing the supply chain through clusters
Abstract:
Building on the results of two demonstration projects carried
out in the UK, this paper develops the notion of 'work clusters' as an
organizational approach to supply chain integration and the application of
concurrent engineering principles. The organizational design principles
are presented together with the process used to set up clusters at project
level, and the impact of the clustering arrangement on the re-engineering
of the design and construction process is discussed. It is argued that the
clustering arrangement successfully supported efforts to improve value,
eliminate inefficiencies, and reduce costs in the project. Evidence
concerning the difficulties, barriers and costs associated with the
implementation of the clustering approach is also addressed. The paper
concludes with some reflections on the use of clusters and on issues for
future research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 37-47
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901452067
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461901452067
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:37-47
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham J. Treloar
Author-X-Name-First: Graham J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Treloar
Author-Name: Peter E.D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter E.D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: Gary D. Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Title: Using national input/output data for embodied energy analysis of individual residential buildings
Abstract:
Embodied energy (EE) analysis has become an important area of
energy research, in attempting to trace the direct and indirect energy
requirements of products and services throughout their supply chain.
Typically, input-output (I-O) models have been used to calculate EE
because they are considered to be comprehensive in their analysis.
However, a major deficiency of using I-O models is that they have inherent
errors and therefore cannot be reliably applied to individual cases. Thus,
there is a need for the ability to disaggregate an I-O model into its most
important 'energy paths', for the purpose of integrating case-specific
data. This paper presents a new hybrid method for conducting EE analyses
for individual buildings, which retains the completeness of the I-O model.
This new method is demonstrated by application to an Australian
residential building. Only 52% of the energy paths derived from the I-O
model were substituted using case-specific data. This indicates that
previous system boundaries for EE studies of individual residential
buildings are less than optimal. It is envisaged that the proposed method
will provide construction professionals with more accurate and reliable
data for conducting life cycle energy analysis of buildings. Furthermore,
by analysing the unmodified energy paths, further data collection can be
prioritized effectively.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 49-61
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901452076
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461901452076
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:49-61
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: A.T.P. So
Author-X-Name-First: A.T.P.
Author-X-Name-Last: So
Author-Name: Tiesong Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Tiesong
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: R. K. K. Yuen
Author-X-Name-First: R. K. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuen
Author-Name: S. M. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: S. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Hongwei Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Hongwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: An integration of the fuzzy reasoning technique and the fuzzy optimization method in construction project management decision-making
Abstract:
Most real world decision-making combines quantitative and
qualitative (linguistic) variables. Conventional mathematics that combines
qualitative and quantitative concepts exhibits difficulty in modelling
actual problems. The research presented in this paper illustrates a
mathematical approach to the solution of decision-making problems that
combine qualitative and quantitative objectives. A methodical system for
construction project management decision-making was developed using a
combination of fuzzy multiple-objective decision-making theory and the
fuzzy reasoning technique. The mathematical model can be applied to
construction project management problems by suggesting an optimal path of
corporate cash flow that results in the minimum use of resources. The
information provided by the mathematical model allows the planner to
eliminate excess use, or idleness, of resources during the construction of
a project. Such information is indispensable for decision-makers in
analysing the best time to invest in a new project. A case study is
demonstrated to illustrate the application to a management decision
problem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 63-76
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901452085
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461901452085
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Author-Name: TIANJI XU
Author-X-Name-First: TIANJI
Author-X-Name-Last: XU
Author-Name: ROBERT L.K. TIONG
Author-X-Name-First: ROBERT L.K.
Author-X-Name-Last: TIONG
Title: Risk assessment on contractors' pricing strategies
Abstract:
TIn a competitive tender, pricing strategies are often used
by contractors to facilitate their cash flows. Usually, the decisions are
based on contractors' experience, intuition, and personal bias. The
existing mark-up or cash-flow forecasting models simulate the pricing
strategies in a simplified manner which may depart from real situation and
therefore could lead to inaccurate cash-flow forecasting. There is a lack
of practical models that could quantify risks associated with pricing
strategies. For construction projects, the quantity values of break-down
cost items are random variables. A new approach to the risk assessment of
contractors' pricing strategies is presented. By using the quantities as
random variables, the approach developed in this paper enables the
contractor to find the global optimal pricing through the stochastic
programming model. The risks caused by contractors' pricing strategies are
then assessed in a quantitative manner. A real case analysis using the
approach is demonstrated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 77-84
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010002561
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190010002561
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:77-84
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michail Kagioglou
Author-X-Name-First: Michail
Author-X-Name-Last: Kagioglou
Author-Name: Rachel Cooper
Author-X-Name-First: Rachel
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooper
Author-Name: Ghassan Aouad
Author-X-Name-First: Ghassan
Author-X-Name-Last: Aouad
Title: Performance management in construction: a conceptual framework
Abstract:
This paper presents a review of the literature on performance
management and measurement in various industries with the aim of
transferring best practice into construction. A framework is presented
which ensures that effective strategies are deployed to form the
performance management system that construction organizations can adopt.
The performance measurement process (conceptual) framework (PMPF) adopts
the balanced scorecard (BSC) with the addition of a number of elements and
perspectives. It rationalizes the relationships between performance
measures and goals derived from strategy, so the impact of those measures
on an organization's performance can be examined and analysed to indicate
potential areas for improvement
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 85-95
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010003425
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190010003425
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:85-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I. M. Johnstone
Author-X-Name-First: I. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnstone
Title: Periodic refurbishment and reductions in national costs to sustain dwelling services
Abstract:
This paper uses a simulation model to make exploratory
estimates of current and potential reductions in national costs to sustain
dwelling services due to refurbishment. Data and parameters are based on a
typical New Zealand dwelling of lightweight timber framed construction.
Dwelling service years provided by a dwelling over one year adjusted for
depreciation serve as a proxy for benefits. The costs to construct one
dwelling and fractions thereof serve as a proxy for the costs of
maintenance, refurbishment, replacement, and new construction. Current
levels of refurbishment reduce national average costs to sustain dwelling
services by a magnitude of 15%. Potential reductions in national costs are
modest (5%) should the housing stock be stationary, but are negligible
when the expansion rate of the housing stock is as high as 2.0% per year.
A decline in the expansion rate of a housing stock has a greater impact on
reducing national costs than an increase in the number of cycles of
refurbishment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-108
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010003434
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190010003434
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:97-108
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jun Luo
Author-X-Name-First: Jun
Author-X-Name-Last: Luo
Title: Assessing management and performance of Sino-foreign construction joint ventures
Abstract:
Since the early 1990s, construction joint ventures are
developing and evolving rapidly in China. However, there has been
relatively little empirical research into Sino-foreign JVs in China's
construction industry. This study investigates the management and
operating performance of Sino-foreign construction joint ventures, and the
relationships between ownership, management control and JV performance. It
is found that dominant management control over JVs by Chinese partners is
the major form of management. Sino-foreign construction JVs perform well.
Positive and significant correlations were found to exist between three
variables - ownership, management control and JV performance. A valid
measure is developed in assessing JV's performance in terms of JV's social
role in developing countries. The relationship between partner's
participation in daily operational management of JV and the level of
control over JV exercised by their parent company, and the relationship
between partner's strategic objectives and the selection of JV
organizational structure are also discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-117
Issue: 1
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010009997
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190010009997
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:1:p:109-117
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zeynep Sozen
Author-X-Name-First: Zeynep
Author-X-Name-Last: Sozen
Author-Name: Olcay Kayahan
Author-X-Name-First: Olcay
Author-X-Name-Last: Kayahan
Title: Correlates of the length of the relationship between main and specialist trade contractors in the construction industry
Abstract:
Although there is a growing literature on the factors associated with the
length of interorganizational relationships, there seem to be few
empirical studies related to the subject in project-based industries such
as construction. In this study we looked for correlations among the length
of the relationship between main and specialist trade contractors, control
methods and the number of rival speciality contractors in the Turkish
construction industry, drawing on the data provided by a study of 27
specialist trade contractors. Correlation analysis was used to investigate
the relationship. The results demonstrate that the length of the
relationship between main and speciality contractors is inversely related
to the number of rival specialist trade contractors, but directly related
to the flexibility of control exercised by the main contractor.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-133
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Interorganizational Relationships Main-SPECIALITY Contractor Relationship Strategic Alliances,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010000185
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010000185
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:131-133
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ozlem Oz
Author-X-Name-First: Ozlem
Author-X-Name-Last: Oz
Title: Sources of competitive advantage of Turkish construction companies in international markets
Abstract:
Michael Porter's diamond framework, a relatively recent attempt to
improve our existing knowledge on the sources of competitive advantage, is
applied to the Turkish construction industry. The results of this
undertaking challenge a common approach that attributes Turkish
contractors' success in international markets to labour cost advantages
and geographic and cultural proximity to several promising markets. In the
light of the diamond framework, Turkish contractors' advantages are found
not to be limited to these 'factor conditions' and 'chance' events. There
are other important advantages behind their success, such as the existence
of a dynamic home market, favourable entrepreneurial variables, and
pressures to upgrade stemming from intense domestic rivalry. The analysis
also points to the areas in which they face troubles, including problems
induced by the government, financing difficulties and the weak
international position of the Turkish design engineering and consultancy
services industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 135-144
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Turkish Construction Industry Competitive Advantage International Competitiveness Diamond Framework,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010009988
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010009988
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:135-144
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Chan Swee Lean
Author-X-Name-First: Chan Swee
Author-X-Name-Last: Lean
Title: Factors influencing development of construction enterprises in Singapore
Abstract:
The literature stresses the importance of improvements in the
effectiveness and efficiency of contractors if the construction industry
is to fulfil its tasks in a cost-effective, timely and safe manner.
Various factors are considered to be instrumental in the development of
contractors. If the most important influencing factors in any country can
be identified, measures can be taken to apply them in order to upgrade the
contractors. The results of a study on the factors which have been
important in the development of construction enterprises in Singapore are
presented. A mailed questionnaire survey provided the basis for the study.
The targeted respondents were local contractors, foreign contractors, and
clients and consultants. It was found that the key factors could be
grouped into four main categories: contractors' role; government's and
institutions' help; practitioners' help and financial support; and
clients' help. Recommendations are offered on measures which can improve
the performance of contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 145-154
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Construction Firms Singapore Development Factors Foreign Contractors Government,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190150505072
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190150505072
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:145-154
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Author-Name: Josephine Csete
Author-X-Name-First: Josephine
Author-X-Name-Last: Csete
Author-Name: Sammy Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Sammy
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: Are risk attitudes robust? Qualitative evidence before and after a business cycle inflection
Abstract:
Attitudes to the monetary risks associated with business decisions are
thought to vary in response to at least three identifiable stimuli: the
amount of money involved, background economic conditions and the framing
of the decision. This paper reports a study of peoples' attitude to risk
before and after a real turning point in the real business cycle. This
work sheds light on the extent to which (i) risk attitudes remain robust
when economic conditions change, (ii) risk attitude is influenced by
whether the choice problem is concerned with losses or with gains, and
(iii) risk attitude may be subordinated to some other dominating
objective.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 155-164
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Risk Attitude Business Cycles,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190150505081
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190150505081
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:155-164
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Michael Mak
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Mak
Author-Name: R. Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: R. Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Ka Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Mark Varnam
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Varnam
Title: The predictive ability of Bromilow's time-cost model
Abstract:
Bromilow's log-log time-cost (BTC) model is tested and refitted with a
new set of data for Australian construction projects completed between
1991 and 1998. It is shown that, as anticipated by earlier research,
different parameter estimates are needed for different project types, with
smaller industrial projects taking less time to complete than the smaller
educational and residential projects. This results in the development of
two separate models, one for industrial projects and one for
non-industrial projects. No changes in parameter estimates are needed for
projects with different client sectors, contractor selection methods and
contractual arrangements. Alternatives to the log-log model failed to
produce any improved fit. Finally, the results are compared with previous
work to indicate the extent of changes in time-cost relationships in
Australian construction projects over the last 40 years. This indicates a
clear improvement in construction speed over the period. Furthermore, the
'public' sector group in particular has exhibited a greater variation (up
to 132%) over the years.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 165-173
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Cost Time Duration Time-COST Bromilow Model Linear Regression Speed Productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190150505090
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190150505090
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:165-173
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Tiesong Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Tiesong
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: A fuzzy neural network approach for contractor prequalification
Abstract:
Non-linearity, uncertainty and subjectivity are the three predominant
characteristics of contractors prequalification which lead to the process
being more of an art than a scientific evaluation. A fuzzy neural network
(FNN) model, amalgamating both the fuzzy set and neural network theories,
has been developed aiming to improve the objectiveness of contractor
prequalification. Through FNN theory, the fuzzy rules as used by the
prequalifiers can be identified and the corresponding membership functions
can be transformed. Eightyfive cases with detailed decision criteria and
rules for prequalifying Hong Kong civil engineering contractors were
collected. These cases were used for training (calibrating) and testing
the FNN model. The performance of the FNN model was compared with the
original results produced by the prequalifiers and those generated by the
general feedforward neural network (GFNN, i.e. a crisp neural network)
approach. Contractors' ranking orders, the model efficiency (R2) and the
mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) were examined during the testing
phase. These results indicate the applicability of the neural network
approach for contractor prequalification and the benefits of the FNN model
over the GFNN model. The fuzzy neural network is a practical approach for
modelling contractor prequalification.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 175-188
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Fuzzy Reasoning Neural Network Contractor Prequalification,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190150505108
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190150505108
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:175-188
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sun Sheng Han
Author-X-Name-First: Sun Sheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Han
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Construction industry in China's regional economy, 1990-1998
Abstract:
Construction has been perceived as a pillar industry in China's economic
revitalization. Policies and programmes have been implemented by the
central and local governments to promote the development of the national
and local construction industries, in the hope of driving the growth of
the economy. Developments in China's economy and in particular, in
different regions, can be used to test the hypotheses on the relationship
between construction and economic development. This paper examines the
geographical distribution of construction in the provinces of China, and
the relationship between construction and regional economic growth. It
also studies different types of projects, ownership patterns, and levels
of technology applied. The study provides useful insights into the
relationships between the construction industry, and the economy and
development especially at the regional level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 189-205
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Construction Industry Economic Development Turin Model China Regional Distribution,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010010003
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010010003
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:189-205
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Genetic algorithm model in optimizing the use of labour
Abstract:
The construction industry is characterized by the existence of multiple
trades and crafts. With the existence of multiple-tiers of
labour-only-subcontracting in Hong Kong, tradesmen are normally assigned
to tasks of a narrowly defined skill. Lately, there has been a call for
the adoption of a directly employed labour scheme by the Hong Kong Housing
Authority and the public works departments in Hong Kong in order to
improve both safety and quality. However, current industry practice has
hindered the adoption of directly employed labour, which requires
assigning tradesmen to broadly defined task groupings. In implementing the
scheme, the first thing to be resolved is how to maximize the levels of
use of workers, because that is the major financial incentive to encourage
contractors to adopt the directly employed labour policy. This coupled
with the shortage of some skilled craft workers call into question the
traditionally accepted 'single-skilled' or 'single-task' approach in
labour deployment. A genetic algorithm model is developed to optimize the
labour deployment and practical examples are presented. The optimization
results are very promising, confirming the practical application value of
the model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-215
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Multi-SKILL Genetic Algorithms Subcontracting Labour Deployment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190150505126
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190150505126
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:207-215
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Noni Holmes
Author-X-Name-First: Noni
Author-X-Name-Last: Holmes
Title: Understandings of occupational health and safety risk control in small business construction firms: barriers to implementing technological controls
Abstract:
The construction industry poses a particular challenge for the making of
occupational health and safety (OHS) risk control decisions which are
equitable to all parties involved in the construction process. Typically,
small business construction firms are engaged as subcontractors in the
construction industry and are located at the lower end of the
inter-organizational hierarchy in a construction project. As such, their
ability to exert an influence on decision-making in the construction
process is limited, despite their employees' day to day exposure to OHS
risks. A qualitative study of understandings of OHS risk control was
conducted among a sample of small businesses engaged in the Australian
construction industry. Two OHS risks relevant to the construction industry
were selected for study. One risk (falls from height) represented an
immediate consequence while the other (occupational skin disease)
represented a long-term health effect. Understandings of control for these
OHS risks were explored during in-depth interviews. The results suggest
that, at the small business end of the industry, there is a fatalistic
resignation to OHS risks being an unavoidable part of the job. This leads
to an emphasis on individual rather than technological controls for OHS
risk. The implication of these findings for the effective management of
OHS risk is discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 217-226
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Occupational Health And Safety Risk Control Small Business,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010002570
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010002570
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:217-226
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anil Sawhney
Author-X-Name-First: Anil
Author-X-Name-Last: Sawhney
Author-Name: Andre Mund
Author-X-Name-First: Andre
Author-X-Name-Last: Mund
Title: IntelliCranes: an integrated crane type and model selection system
Abstract:
The importance of the utilization of cranes in construction operations
has resulted in the development of structured methods for crane selection.
Most of these methods are for crane model selection and require the user
to stipulate the type of crane to be used for the construction operation
under consideration. Availability of a structured method for crane type
selection will greatly benefit the overall crane selection process. This
paper describes a prototype integrated crane selection tool, called
IntelliCranes, designed to assist in both crane type and crane model
selection. The key feature of IntelliCranes is the systematic
incorporation of subjective and qualitative criteria in crane type and
model selection.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 227-237
Issue: 2
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Crane Selection Neural Networks Adaptive Probabilistic Neural Networks Expert Systems Lifting Hoisting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010008079
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010008079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:2:p:227-237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steven Groak
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Groak
Title: Representation in building
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 249-253
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020345
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020345
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:249-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Title: The future of building economics: a note
Abstract:
Building economics has been long in emerging because it still lacks solid
theoretical foundations. The notion of 'building process' should play a
central role in this regard, as it points at the fundamental indeterminacy
underlying building activity from conception to demolition. This
indeterminacy stems from the length of time that usually separates these
two events. Building economics needs to shift its focus from investment
decisions to problems of managing building portfolios in their entirety.
The professional basis for this development is in corporate real estate
and facilities management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 255-258
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Building Process Real Estate Portfolio Corporate Real Estate Facilities Management Chief Real Estate Officer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020354
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:255-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Meikle
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Meikle
Title: A review of recent trends in house construction and land prices in Great Britain
Abstract:
Over the last few decades, house prices in the UK have risen at a higher
rate than general prices, as measured by, for example, the retail price
index. Construction prices, on the other hand, tend to have risen broadly
in line with general prices. Assuming the same things are being measured
in each case, this implies that, over the period, the price of land, the
most significant non-construction element of house prices, has risen at a
faster rate than house prices and a much higher rate than construction
prices. This paper reviews past price trends and concludes that not only
have house prices risen faster than construction prices but also that, as
a result, construction prices represent a smaller proportion of house
prices. The paper also considers briefly what might be the implications if
that trend continued- or if it did not.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-265
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Construction Prices Land Prices House Prices Trends Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020499
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020499
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:259-265
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jill Wells
Author-X-Name-First: Jill
Author-X-Name-Last: Wells
Title: Construction and capital formation in less developed economies: unravelling the informal sector in an African city
Abstract:
Sub-Saharan Africa is the poorest and least developed region in the world
today. It is also the most rapidly urbanizing, with the greatest need for
investment in new infrastructure and buildings. In Kenya, as well as in a
number of other countries, the adoption of economic adjustment programmes
has led to a sharp decline in publicly funded construction projects. What
activity there is takes place in the private sector. The shift from public
to private investment has been accompanied by a noticeable fall in the
volume of work passing through the more formally organized construction
system and an increase in activity in the 'informal' system. The informal
construction system is characterized by a much closer relationship between
building owners and building labour, with owners purchasing materials as
and when they have the funds and engaging directly the services of small
enterprises and self-employed workers. In Nairobi (Kenya) substantial
multi-storey projects are now being implemented in this way by a myriad of
small firms. This paper examines these devel8 opments and assesses their
implications for our understanding of 'the construction industry' and the
process of capital formation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 267-274
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Africa Building Construction Informal Sector Nairobi,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020363
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020363
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:267-274
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. T. McCutcheon
Author-X-Name-First: R. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: McCutcheon
Title: Employment generation in public works: recent South African experience
Abstract:
Unemployment remains one of South Africa's most pressing problems while
at the same time there is a great need for physical infrastructure in both
urban and rural areas. Concurrently there is also a lack of individual
skills and institutional capacity. From a theoretical perspective,
substantiated by large scale experience elsewhere in Africa (and research
and development in South Africa) there are reasons for advocating the
establishment of carefully formulated, long term programmes using
employment-intensive methods for the construction and maintenance of the
required infrastructure. These programmes have also improved institutional
capacities and developed individual skills. Proper employment-intensive
construction results in a significant increase in employment generated per
unit of expenditure. It can be financially competitive with conventional
(equipment-based) construction and can produce the same quality of product
within the same time. From a development perspective there are additional
socio-economic benefits to be gained such as the development of individual
skills and institutional capacities and a contribution to the alleviation
of poverty. The concepts and principles, taken together with the processes
and results of successful long term, large scale programmes provide
criteria by which to evaluate other projects and programmes. In 1994 the
South African National Public Works Programme (NPWP) was launched based on
the principles outlined above. This paper briefly describes the NPWP and
evaluates progress in satisfying its objectives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 275-284
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Development Employment Labour Skills South Africa Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020381
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020381
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:275-284
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denis Towill
Author-X-Name-First: Denis
Author-X-Name-Last: Towill
Title: The idea of building business processes: the responsive housebuilder
Abstract:
In many market sectors there has recently been an apparent step change
for the better in how companies perform their core business. The result
has been increased competitive advantage for companies in the electronic
products, automotive, insurance, banking and mechanical sectors. Careful
research has shown that the way forward for the construction sector to
similarly benefit from the new methodology is to apply well established
'business systems engineering7rsquo; (BSE) principles. But business
systems engineering is concerned with both engineering and integrating the
technological, financial, organizational and cultural aspects of business
processes. The responsive housebuilder is the particular example selected
herein to demonstrate the power of the approach. By re-engineering the
design, financing, and production processes, the housebuilder first learns
to survive economic turbulence. However, second it grows by increasing
market share via the exploitation of new opportunities enabled by much
reduced delivery times. The outcome is therefore a welcome addition to the
construction sector survivability categories originally listed by Steven
Groak in The Idea of Building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 285-293
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Benchmarking Business Systems Engineering Process Change Models Lean Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020408
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020408
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:285-293
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shigeaki Iwashita
Author-X-Name-First: Shigeaki
Author-X-Name-Last: Iwashita
Title: Custom made housing in Japan and the growth of the super subcontractor
Abstract:
This paper considers the relationship between the major Japanese
industrialized housing suppliers and their subcontractors. It describes
the different types of contractor and subcontractor, indicating their role
in customer liaison, design and delivery on site. It explains the
different supply networks for materials supply, and it concludes with a
description of the emergent role of what have been called 'super
subcontractors'. These super subcontractors are offering a more efficient
route to the delivery of works on site for both industrialized and
traditional housing producers. Their role appears to be transforming the
organization and costs of delivery.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 295-300
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Subcontractors Made-TO-ORDER Housing Japanese Housing Housing Innovation Supply Chains Customization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020417
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020417
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:295-300
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tomonari Yashiro
Author-X-Name-First: Tomonari
Author-X-Name-Last: Yashiro
Title: A Japanese perspective on the decline of robust technologies and changing technological paradigms in housing construction: issues for construction management research
Abstract:
Based on the concept of construction as a project-based economic
activity, Steven Groak offered the idea of a technological paradigm to
represent project-based technology fusion that is adaptive to the
uncertainties embodied within construction projects. This paper discusses
further research topics raised by the idea of the technological paradigm
from a Japanese perspective. It verifies the effectiveness of Groak's
notion by exemplifying phenomena identified in Japanese construction
practices. First, the paper confirms how declining robust technologies are
generating innovative activities in construction projects. Second, a
'horizontal evolution' case study is presented as evidence that the
strategies engendered by the technological paradigm outperform those from
the industrial paradigm. Then the paper identifies and focuses on the
informality of project-based technology fusion. Relevant research topics
are discussed, such as the unpredictability of system configuration, the
integration of knowledge and know-how, and the regulatory framework for
extending positive informality. It is concluded that the following topics
have considerable significance for construction management research: (a)
methodology to evaluate 'robust limits'; (b) the process of
project-to-project technology transfer and evolution; (c) organization
formation of project-based technology fusion; and (d) regulatory framework
that embodies informality to activate project-based technology fusion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 301-306
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Technological Paradigm Project-BASED Technology Fusion Robust Technology Organizational Learning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020426
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020426
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:301-306
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Standardization and pre-assembly- distinguishing myth from reality using case study research
Abstract:
Standardization and pre-assembly (S&P) are not new, but their application
and their drivers, pragmatism and perception, need to be considered in the
light of current technology and management practice. There are lessons to
be learned from a historical review, but there are also numerous myths
that must be dispelled: houses are not cars; maximum standardization is
not always the answer; and, S&P do not have to cost more. Steven Groak
worked with the author on the research project 'Adding value to
construction projects through standardisation and pre-assembly' funded by
CIRIA (Construction Industry Research and Information Association). The
CIRIA project, which forms the basis of this paper, aimed to produce a
review of the subject and guidance for clients and project teams through a
comprehensive literature review, expert work5 shops and case study
research. The paper defines S&P, discusses past, present and future
applications (providing case study evidence) and presents the key benefits
and implications of the optimized use of standardization and pre-assembly.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 307-315
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Standardization Pre-ASSEMBLY Drivers Benefits Implications,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020435
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020435
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:307-315
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shuichi Matsumura
Author-X-Name-First: Shuichi
Author-X-Name-Last: Matsumura
Title: Perspectives on component-based design in Japanese construction
Abstract:
The industrialization of building production was the subject of heated
debate in Japan during the 1960s and into the 1970s. Various concepts of
'component-based design' were introduced with the purpose of stimulating
innovation and creating a more efficient building process. In this paper
these concepts are reviewed from today's perspectives, and the necessary
revisions are examined that might make them more useful in contributing to
the future development of the Japanese construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 317-319
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Component-BASED Design Flexible Manufacturing System Information Technology Decision-MAKING,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020471
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020471
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:317-319
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Gann
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Gann
Title: Putting academic ideas into practice: technological progress and the absorptive capacity of construction organizations
Abstract:
This paper focuses on how knowledge is produced by academics and on
mechanisms for and constraints upon absorbing new ideas within the
construction sector. It draws upon two bodies of work: Cohen and
Levinthal's concept of 'absorptive capacity' and Gibbons and coworkers'
'new production of knowledge'. Much of Steven Groak's work was concerned
with technology transfer and how ideas generated during research could be
put into practice. He developed the concept of 'practitioner-researcher'
to illustrate the ways in which many built environment professionals
approach their work. The paper suggests that a few construction firms have
the capabilities to absorb and act directly upon the results of academic
research in the UK. These firms are likely to employ a critical mass of
professionally qualified practitioners and they usually compete for work
in technically demanding and often specialist areas. They probably have a
track record of collaboration with university researchers, and are likely
to have their own internal technical support infrastructure which assists
in learning between projects. However, the majority of construction
organizations learn of new ideas through a range of different published
media and by participating in complex sets of interactions in a wide range
of networks. The role of professional institutions is important, acting as
repositories of knowledge. But these institutions may also constrain
development when they adhere to outmoded notions of narrowly defined
discipline-based activities. Governments can play a part in putting ideas
into practice as catalysts in bringing academic research and industrial
practitioner communities together through sponsorship of collaborative
research projects. The paper concludes that construction organizations
could improve their absorptive capacity by developing better feedback and
life-long learning mechanisms, education and training.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 321-330
Issue: 3
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Knowledge Production Absorption Capacity Innovation Construction Research Academic Research Technology Transfer Professionalization Construction Organizations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020480
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010020480
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:3:p:321-330
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Fisher
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy
Author-X-Name-Last: Fisher
Author-Name: Malik Ranasinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Malik
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranasinghe
Title: Culture and foreign companies' choice of entry mode: the case of the Singapore building and construction industry
Abstract:
Recent studies have shown that culture has an effect on the choice of
foreign investment venture structure. Cultural distance has been
identified as a primary determinant in the selection of shared control
over wholly foreign owned investment. The data from these studies
indicate, however, that individual cultural characteristics of investor
countries may be more important than the difference in culture. In this
study, a sample of Singaporean building and construction firms is utilized
to explore whether joint venture (JV) formations correspond more to the
uncertainty avoidance dimension of the investor's culture than to cultural
distance. The results show that an investor's cultural aversion to risk
may be more influential in explaining the propensity for firms from
certain countries to engage in JVs, rather than other cultural factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 343-353
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Culture Joint Ventures Partner Selection Foreign Investment Entry Mode Technology Transfer Regionalization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010001193a
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010001193a
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:343-353
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chan Swee Lean
Author-X-Name-First: Chan Swee
Author-X-Name-Last: Lean
Title: Empirical tests to discern linkages between construction and other economic sectors in Singapore
Abstract:
The construction industry makes significant contributions to the
socio-economic development process in most countries. Its importance in
the economy is due largely to the direct and indirect impact it has on the
national economy. It stimulates the growth of other sectors through a
complex system of linkages. Interest in multi-sectoral linkages was
generated following Hirschman's work that investigated the relationship
between unbalanced sectoral growth and economic development. Most of the
past research work had used Leontief's input-output analysis to gauge the
backward and forward linkages between industries. This paper proposes an
econometric procedure that can be used for determining the construction
output linkages. This involves unit-root testing and Granger causality
testing. The main purpose is to determine the impact of a fluctuation in
construction output on the sectoral production and the economy of
Singapore. This helps to assess the role of the construction industry and
how it is affected by the changes in the other economic sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-363
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Construction Linkages Economic Sectors Granger Causality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010022686
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190010022686
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:355-363
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ramesh Marasini
Author-X-Name-First: Ramesh
Author-X-Name-Last: Marasini
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Author-Name: Brian Hobbs
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Hobbs
Title: Stockyard layout planning in precast concrete products industry: a case study and proposed framework
Abstract:
Management of the stockyard layout in the precast concrete products
industry is very important for efficient storage and dispatch of the
concrete products. The industry uses the make-to-stock principle in
production to meet the seasonal demand (high in summer and low in winter)
from the construction industry. In order to stabilize production output
and cater for the huge demand in summer, stock is built up during the
winter and spring period. The concrete products are kept in stock for 4-5
months. As 2000≈3000 different precast concrete products are
produced, and the products have different size, weight and handling
requirements, determination of appropriate stockyard location for the
products constitutes a complex process. This paper describes some ongoing
research that is focused on identifying the appropriate methodology for
designing and managing the stockyard layout that ensures efficient storage
and dispatch of products, and provides ease of rotation of products within
the yard. An integrated simulation model employing artificial intelligence
methods has been proposed to evaluate 'what-if' scenarios and recommend a
suitable methodology for the management of stockyard space for precast
concrete products. This paper presents the findings from a case study,
which includes work-study, frequency analysis of historical order data.
The paper also introduces the specifications, processes and outline
prototype of the proposed model. A general purpose simulation language
(SIMAN) based software, 'Arena 4.0' (Systems Modelling Corporation), has
been selected to develop the prototype simulation model and ILOG views and
rules have been considered to generate a knowledge-based stockyard layout.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 365-377
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Stockyard Layout Precast Concrete Products Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110035636
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:365-377
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Author-Name: Mohan Raj Manavazhi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan Raj
Author-X-Name-Last: Manavazhi
Author-Name: Zhang Xunzhi
Author-X-Name-First: Zhang
Author-X-Name-Last: Xunzhi
Title: Productivity oriented analysis of design revisions
Abstract:
This paper presents a structured, two-pronged approach to the development
of a framework for assessing the severity of occurrence of design
revisions and determining the causes of these revisions. The development
of the framework involves the identification of a causal taxonomy
consisting of categories of the causes of design revisions and the
formalization of a set of indices for measuring and comparing the
magnitudes of designer-times expended on design revisions. The framework
could be used both as a diagnostic instrument to determine the health of
the design phase and also as a forecasting tool for the estimation of
designer resources required for a construction project. The framework was
tested using data obtained from twelve building projects in China. The
category that caused the maximum expenditure of designer time on design
revisions in the building projects surveyed was found to be
owner-initiated changes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 379-391
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Design Revisions Design Process Design Productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010017141
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:379-391
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Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Ivan Fung
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fung
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Study of attitude changes in people after the implementation of a new safety management system: the supervision plan
Abstract:
The construction industry of Hong Kong has a very poor site safety
record. The overall accident rate has gone down a little during the last
few years, but the number of fatalities has risen dramatically. In the
past, the Hong Kong Government adopted a laissez-faire approach in
managing construction safety, hoping that market forces would regulate the
safety performance. However, the approach has proved to be ineffective.
Since 1986, the Government has taken a proactive approach in combating
construction site safety, and has introduced a series of safety
programmes, which consist of encouraged and mandatory schemes aiming at
nourishing a proper safety culture in the construction industry. Recently,
the Government decided to criminalize site accident cases by introducing a
so-called 'Supervision Plan', aiming at changing the safety attitude and
culture of construction practitioners. This paper applies an
attitude-changing model, 'reinforcement theory', to predict the changing
attitude of people in the construction industry. The results show that the
attitude of construction practitioners in Hong Kong will change to be more
positive when they receive more messages to confirm that people really are
put into jail for negligence under the Supervision Plan.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 393-403
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Site Safety Supervision Plan Attitudinal Change Reinforcement Theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010027591
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:393-403
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Author-Name: Krishna Mochtar
Author-X-Name-First: Krishna
Author-X-Name-Last: Mochtar
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Pricing strategy in the US construction industry
Abstract:
This paper presents several issues related to pricing in construction.
First, problems with current pricing strategy in construction are
explored. Second, pricing strategies based on a market-based approach are
proposed. Third, survey findings of the top 400 US contractors are
presented regarding their current pricing practices and the applicability
of the proposed pricing strategies. In conclusion, the belief that current
pricing strategy in construction is predominantly cost-based is confirmed
by the survey findings; indeed, in setting the markup, most contractors
rely on their intuition after subjectively assessing the competition. The
three internal pricing variables that have the largest statistically
significant contingency coefficients with pricing strategy are 'marketing
intelligence capabilities', 'annual contract value', and 'the type of
client in most projects'. 'Owner's characteristics',
'competitors'characteristics', and 'market demand' are statistically
significant external variables in making pricing strategy decisions. A
change of bidding procedure is proposed so that all parties in
construction can maximize the benefits of market-based pricing strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 405-415
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Cost-BASED Pricing Market-BASED Pricing Pricing Variables Bidding Procedure,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020372
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:405-415
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Author-Name: roy J. Le Isidore
Author-X-Name-First: roy J. Le
Author-X-Name-Last: Isidore
Author-Name: W. Edward Back
Author-X-Name-First: W. Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Back
Author-Name: Gary Fry
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Fry
Title: Integrated probabilistic schedules and estimates from project simulated data
Abstract:
Risk management, as it relates to construction, is vital to the
successful undertaking and completion of any construction project. One way
to manage project risk effectively is to develop more reliable means of
accounting for the time and cost variability existing in construction
operations. Recent attempts to more reliably quantify the risk inherent in
construction projects has focused on range estimating and stochastic
scheduling (also referred to as probabilistic estimating and probabilistic
scheduling). It is common knowledge in the construction industry that the
cost associated with a project is affected greatly by the schedule
selected to complete that project. Additionally, the percentile level
associated with both of these tools is of significance when they are
considered stochastically. This paper looks at the integration of range
estimating and probabilistic scheduling, using a new procedure called the
empirical cumulative density function technique (ECDF) as a means of
further controlling the risk associated with the undertaking of
construction projects. In addition to providing a reliable means of
relating the results of range estimating and probabilistic scheduling,
this technique is graphically based, and has the advantage of not
requiring any assumptions regarding the underlying data distributions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 417-426
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Integrated Cost And Schedule Monte Carlo Simulation Range Estimating Probabilistic Estimating Probabilistic Scheduling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010022677
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:417-426
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Author-Name: Sai-On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai-On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Tsun-Ip Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Tsun-Ip
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Yue-Wang Wan
Author-X-Name-First: Yue-Wang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wan
Title: An analytical hierarchy process based procurement selection method
Abstract:
Procurement selection continues to be topical, and several advanced
studies have been reported. One of the key concerns of procurement
selection is how to enhance objectivity. A selection method developed
using multi-attribute utility technology (MAUT) and the analytical
hierarchy process (AHP) is proposed. With the input of industrial experts,
critical procurement selection criteria and procurement strategies
commonly used in Hong Kong were identified. Against these criteria,
utility factors corresponding to various procurement strategies were then
assigned by the experts to create a utility factor table. To cater for
individual project characteristics, the relative importance weightings of
the selection criteria were assessed using the analytical hierarchy
process. Final selection was then based on the highest utility value
derived from the procurement strategies, taking into account the relative
importance of the selection criteria. The use of the model is illustrated
with actual data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 427-437
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Multi-ATTRIBUTE Utility Technology Analytical Hierarchy Process Procurement Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461901300132401
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:427-437
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Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Peter Hamill
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamill
Title: Subcontracting in commercial and residential construction: an empirical investigation
Abstract:
Some twenty years ago Robert Eccles argued for the theoretical existence
of the quasifirm, a semi-integrated form of production in the construction
industry, following a field study of home building firms in the USA. The
study was aimed at substantiating some aspects of Williamson's transaction
cost theory. The present work has similar intents, and illustrates the
results of two recent field studies of homebuilders and commercial
contractors, and the specific features of their subcontracting practice.
Given the difficulty of an effective measurement of transaction costs in
construction, Williamson's concept of atmosphere is suggested to explain
the different approaches observed in subcontracting.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 439-447
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Quasifirm Transaction Costs Subcontracting Construction Market Homebuilders General Contractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010020390
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:439-447
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Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Title: Reply
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 449-450
Issue: 4
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190010026114
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:4:p:449-450
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: NG Thomas
Author-X-Name-First: NG
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas
Title: Australian project time-cost analysis: Statistical analysis of intertemporal trends
Abstract:
In statistical analysis of intertemporal movements in time-cost
relationships via the Bromilow model it is shown that for Ng et al.'s
(2001) Australian data, the K value is not significantly different from
unity. This is utilized to develop a new and simpler ratio measure of the
time-cost relationship, which has the advantage of being obtainable for
each project. A scatter plot and a statistical analysis of the project
ratios indicate significant yearly fluctuations but no underlying trend.
Assuming similar characteristics of the data from previous studies,
equivalent average ratios are estimated and plotted, confirming Ng et
al.'s visual appearance of a possible downward trend. However, the
statistical analysis is inconclusive on the issue, there being
insufficient data (six points) for a full analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 455-458
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Time, cost, model, trend, Bromilow, intertemporal, nonlinear,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709621
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:455-458
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Author-Name: Zhaoxia Li
Author-X-Name-First: Zhaoxia
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Michael Anson
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Anson
Author-Name: Guangming Li
Author-X-Name-First: Guangming
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: A procedure for quantitatively evaluating site layout alternatives
Abstract:
Construction site layout decisions affect the effort involved in
materials handling, an activity which occupies a substantial portion of
working time. Much computer software has been developed enabling
construction managers to plan and visualize the layout of a construction
site, but at present the lack of an accepted practical technique for
evaluating the efficiency of a chosen site layout makes it difficult to
choose objectively between possibilities, in the search for a better
layout design. The research described in this paper explores the
practicability of an evaluation procedure intended to help improve this
situation, and effectively describes the use of a quantitative material
flow network model as the basis for evaluating the efficiency of a given
site layout option. The evaluation measure, 'total material flow time', is
calculated as part of an evaluation procedure. A site trial of the
procedure is described, and its necessary development into a computer
assisted procedure is discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-467
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Site layout, quantitative evaluation, material flow,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709622
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:459-467
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Author-Name: Paulo Barbosa
Author-X-Name-First: Paulo
Author-X-Name-Last: Barbosa
Author-Name: Priscilla Pimentel
Author-X-Name-First: Priscilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Pimentel
Title: A linear programming model for cash flow management in the Brazilian construction industry
Abstract:
A linear programming model has been developed for optimal cash flow
management addressing specific cash flow issues related to the
construction industry. These include typical financial transactions,
possible delays on payments, use of available credit lines, effect of
changing interest rates, and budget constraints that often occur in the
construction industry. A small size project from the Brazilian
construction industry is provided as a case study, aiming at evaluating
the potential benefits from using the model. Different changes to the
basic structure of the model allow and establish the consistency of the
results. Alternative formulations are suggested to deal with
uncertainties, longer planning horizons, and multiple subcontractors and
suppliers. In addition to the tangible financial earnings derived from the
optimization process, the simple structure of the model, as a network flow
and corresponding equations, provides much visual insight concerning the
relationships between the external inputs and the variables of the
problem. Optimal results have yet to be achieved in a real life situation,
but a better view of whole cash flow management is provided when using the
model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 469-479
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Cash flow management, financial planning, linear optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709623
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:469-479
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Author-Name: Raymond Nkado
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Nkado
Author-Name: Terry Meyer
Author-X-Name-First: Terry
Author-X-Name-Last: Meyer
Title: Competencies of professional quantity surveyors: A South African perspective
Abstract:
A competency-based review of professional quantity surveying is important
for service excellence and has continuing relevance in the built
environment of the 21st century. A survey of quantity surveyors in
professional practice in South Africa has provided a new perspective on
the relative importance of competencies required for current and future
quantity surveying services, and revealed notable gaps between the
important competencies and current proficiency levels among practitioners.
The survey was based on a structured questionnaire reflecting 23 defined
competencies, which were derived from the literature and from in-depth
interviews with selected practitioners. The results indicated that
technically orientated competencies were rated of highest importance for
current services, while management orientated competencies were rated of
higher importance for future services. The profession was rated as
deploying below average proficiency levels in marketing, advanced
financial management, leadership and general management, and project
management, although these received high current and future importance
ratings. The findings suggest that initial and continuing education and
training of professional quantity surveyors should emphasize the
development of management-orientated competencies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 481-491
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Competencies, ranking, quantity surveyors, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709624
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:481-491
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Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Author-Name: Laurence Marsh
Author-X-Name-First: Laurence
Author-X-Name-Last: Marsh
Author-Name: Graham Cockerham
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Cockerham
Title: Design for manufacture: A strategy for successful application to buildings
Abstract:
Building designers' counterparts in the manufacturing industry use
proprietary methodologies described by the term 'design for manufacture'
(DFM). Their use has resulted in radical improvements to productivity and
quality. The potential benefits of applying DFM to buildings are widely
recognized. However, there are differences between design in the
manufacturing industry and in the construction industry. An analysis is
provided here of how building design information and activities could
affect successful application of DFM in the construction industry. The
paper presents a review of DFM literature and a field survey of
construction manufacturers, assemblers and consultants. The results
suggest that information and activities prevalent in building design are
barriers to the successful application of existing DFM methodologies.
However, it may be possible to apply the fundamental principles of DFM to
buildings. A strategy to achieve this is introduced and discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 493-502
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Design for manufacture (DFM), design rules, design metrics, methodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709625
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:493-502
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Liwina Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Liwina
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Analysing a consultant's competitiveness in two-envelope fee tendering
Abstract:
A method for analysing the competitiveness of a consultant's two-envelope
fee tendering history is proposed and illustrated in an application to one
of Hong Kong's larger quantity surveying practices. Separate measures for
determining consultants' fee, quality score and overall competitiveness
are considered to accommodate the special nature of the Hong Kong system,
which makes cross-auction comparisons impossible. Maximum fee
competitiveness is assumed to be the lowest submitted tender fee, while
maximum quality score competitiveness is taken to be the highest quality
score attained by a competing consultant. Fees and quality score are then
expressed as separate competitiveness ratios relative to these maximums
and aggregated for determining overall competitiveness. In analysing
bidding performance it was found that this consultant's fee, quality score
and overall competitiveness are all above the competitor average. These
competitiveness measures reveal large differences in variability between
quality score and fees, with quality score variability being considerably
lower. Such a large imbalance in competitiveness variability effectively
discounts quality and promotes the influence of the fee, since
competitiveness ratio differences between fees are much larger than the
competitiveness ratio differences between quality scores.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 503-510
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: bidding, competitiveness, consultant, fee, quality, tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709626
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:503-510
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alex Eyiah
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Eyiah
Title: An integrated approach to financing small contractors in developing countries: A conceptual model
Abstract:
Lack of access to bank finance is one of the major constraints on the
development of small contractors in developing countries. Efforts by
governments and interested donor agencies to mitigate the problem have
achieved little. Banks perceive that the risk and transaction costs
involved in dealing with small businesses in general are high. They also
lack information about small business owner-managers and their businesses
to better evaluate their loan proposals. Furthermore, several factors make
it difficult to acquire adequate collateral to compensate for the risk.
Theoretical and empirical analysis has recognized the importance of
developing a closer working relationship between the bank and the small
business in addressing the problem and, hence, improving the latter's
access to bank loans. Microcredit schemes, which dwell on the principles
of small business-bank relationships, have been successful in this
respect. This paper reviews the factors affecting bank financing of small
businesses and examines their implications for small contractors in
developing countries. Based on the concept of microcredit, a model for
financing small contractors in developing countries has been developed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 511-518
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Developing countries, contractor development, small contractors, bank finance, microcredit,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709627
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:511-518
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Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Author-Name: Brid Carr
Author-X-Name-First: Brid
Author-X-Name-Last: Carr
Title: Processes, maps and protocols: Understanding the shape of the construction process
Abstract:
Process mapping and benchmarking are becoming widely recognized as
important management tools for understanding how value is delivered for
customers, and their use in the construction industry is growing rapidly.
Influenced by research on design project management, and the requirements
of developing inter-firm IT systems, this work has focused renewed
attention on the role of process protocols. The aim of this paper is to
explore empirically the use of process maps and protocols within one
retail client with a large programme of retail development projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-531
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Process mapping, process protocol, benchmarking, key performance indicators, retail clients,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709628
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Author-Name: Nick Phillips
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Phillips
Title: The influence of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 upon the procurement and management of small building works
Abstract:
This paper, which focuses on the impact of the Construction (Design and
Management) Regulations 1994 on the management of small building works,
adds new data and analysis to the further development of a subset of
findings from a major research study, supported by governmental and
industry based sources, which investigated the efficiency and
effectiveness of procurement methods, organizational systems and
management approaches to small building works and minor maintenance
projects. Within this industry subsector there has been and continues to
be an apparent culture of misunderstanding in the application of the CDM
Regulations. However, commonly such works are undertaken in active
environments where buildings are occupied or are operational. This raises
many issues and considerations which are key to the satisfactory
implementation of the CDM Regulations. The application of the Regulations
is examined explicitly in the context of managing small building works.
The findings indicate that the CDM Regulations have left ambiguities,
primarily through specified exclusions to application, through which
health and safety responsibilities may be downplayed or even simply
disregarded. Effective implementation of the CDM Regulations during the
management of small building works requires that legislation be
unambiguously translated into contract documentation, and also that there
must be clear understanding by project participants of their committed and
onerous responsibilities for project health and safety under the CDM
Regulations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 533-540
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Small works, maintenance, management, health and safety, CDM Regulations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709629
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2001.9709629
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:533-540
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Serdar Kale
Author-X-Name-First: Serdar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kale
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: General contractors' relationships with subcontractors: A strategic asset
Abstract:
The general contractor-subcontractor relationship has been a focus of
interest in the literature and yet its impact on a general contractor's
economic performance remains a virtually unexplored area in the
construction management literature. This research presents the findings of
a questionnaire survey administered to 500 large US general contractors to
explore this issue. The findings reveal that maintaining a relationship of
high quality with subcontractors is positively and strongly associated
with the perceived performance of general contractors responding to the
survey.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 541-549
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Transactions, general contractors, subcontractors, relationship quality, social embeddedness, and economic performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709630
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2001.9709630
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:541-549
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Lemer
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Lemer
Title: Book review
Abstract:
Construction - The Third Way: Managing Cooperation and Competition in
Construction John Bennett, Butterworth Heinemann, 2000, ISBN 0 7506 3093
0, 224 pp., £19.99
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 551-552
Issue: 5
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2001.9709631
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2001.9709631
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:5:p:551-552
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Moore
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Moore
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Intra-team boundaries as inhibitors of performance improvement in UK design and build projects: a call for change
Abstract:
The success of the design and build (D&B) procurement route could be
undermined by issues arising from the rigid professional cultures of
individual participants within project workgroups. These have the
potential to inhibit the achievement of a key espoused benefit of D&B
procurement, i.e. that it promotes the integration of the design and
construction processes for improved project performance. Cultural
non-interoperability is identified as a significant potential barrier to
effective change management, and to the achievement of innovation within
the design and construction processes. This note argues that project
responsibilities, which currently are delineated along professional
identity lines, produce design and construction solutions that fail to
fulfil the potential of D&B procurement. It is suggested that addressing
cultural interoperability will require a fundamental and long term
reshaping of the industry's structure, beginning with the professional
bodies and the higher education system that underpins their future
membership.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 559-562
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Professional Cultures Interoperability Performance Improvement Design And Build Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110055508
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110055508
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:559-562
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Said Boukendour
Author-X-Name-First: Said
Author-X-Name-Last: Boukendour
Author-Name: Rahim Bah
Author-X-Name-First: Rahim
Author-X-Name-Last: Bah
Title: The guaranteed maximum price contract as call option
Abstract:
Due to increasing constraints on project duration and costs, together
with the increasing implication of contractors in the design process,
guaranteed maximum price (GMP) contracts are likely to become common in
the future. This paper explores a new approach for evaluating the
remuneration of the contractor. The GMP contract is considered as a hybrid
arrangement consisting of a cost reimbursement contract and a call option
on a fixed price contract. The option pricing theory is used as a
conceptual framework to assess the GMP contract and the contractors'
remuneration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 563-567
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Guaranteed Maximum Price Fixed Price Cost Reimbursement Call Option,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110049848
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110049848
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:563-567
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: G. Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: S. T. Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: T. S. Hu
Author-X-Name-First: T. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Z. M. Deng
Author-X-Name-First: Z. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Deng
Title: Capital budget planning practices of building contractors in Hong Kong
Abstract:
This paper explores the current practice of capital budget planning and
control in the Hong Kong (HK) construction industry, based on two surveys
undertaken in 1994 and 1999. The aims of these surveys were to uncover the
financial planning, monitoring and control procedures used by building
engineering contractors in HK. The results of the current survey reveal
that less than half of the respondents undertook any form of capital
budget planning. The most common form of capital budget planning was a
review of the minimum rate of return. Despite the low prevalence of
planning, most respondents adopted some method of capital budget control,
especially by way of monitoring project performance. The 1999 study was
compared with a similar survey conducted in 1994. The results indicate
that there was no significant improvement in capital budget planning
practices over the five year period. In addition to these findings, this
paper concludes with a classification of firms, according to their capital
budget planning behaviour, using discriminant function analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-576
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Capital Budgeting Planning And Control Discriminant Analysis Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110054112
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110054112
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:569-576
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Author-Name: Brid Carr
Author-X-Name-First: Brid
Author-X-Name-Last: Carr
Title: Benchmarking on-site productivity in France and the UK: a CALIBRE approach
Abstract:
Construction is an increasingly global industry, and benchmarking
initiatives that are restricted to a single country run the risk of
complacency, as national best practice falls out of line with
international best practice. The aim of this article is to report the
results of a detailed comparative analysis of the on-site performance of
the UK and French divisions of a major UK construction corporation. It
focuses on structural concrete because this is potentially a major element
in the budget and programme of any construction project, and an area of
known French strength. It deploys an innovative computerized productivity
measurement tool based on activity sampling, 'CALIBRE', in order to
provide detailed comparative data. The results show that the UK
productivity performance is poorer than in France, and that the poor UK
performance compared with the French is explained by elaborate divisions
of labour, lack of investment in plant, and less effective work
organization. However, as will be argued in the conclusions, these
differences cannot be understood without reference to the overall
contracting system and the constraints upon action that it imposes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 577-590
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Productivity Benchmarking Activity Sampling France Structural Concrete Site Organization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110062465
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110062465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:577-590
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Tan Fu Hwa
Author-X-Name-First: Tan Fu
Author-X-Name-Last: Hwa
Title: Developing world class construction companies in Singapore
Abstract:
The construction industry in Singapore is under pressure to improve its
performance and the quality of its products and services. The Government
is looking to see Singapore develop into a knowledge-based economy, and
construction cannot be left behind. A recently published report about
re-inventing construction has called on the industry to become a
world-class industry. This study examines the attitudes and views of
contractors, operating in Singapore, on how and where developments should
be focused to bring about such a transformation. The results show that
local contractors are not overly enthusiastic about becoming worldclass.
The study found also that contractors expect the development to be
Government led, with policies and incentives to support such an effort. At
the same time there is a feeling that current Government policies are not
effective in enabling the industry to become world-class.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 591-599
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: World Class Construction Development Government Policies Competitive Advantage Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110050945
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110050945
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:591-599
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Genetic algorithm optimization in building portfolio management
Abstract:
A significant proportion of building investment expenditure goes to
replacement expenditure for organizations owning a large building stock or
portfolio. Over the years, researchers have attempted to develop asset
replacement models to aid decision-making in building portfolio
management, based upon' a statistical or an heuristic approach. This study
attempts to use genetic algorithms to develop models for forecasting long
term asset replacement strategies, aiming at smoothing fluctuations of
expenditure and resource requirements, and most importantly minimizing the
total maintenance and replacement costs. Scenarios are presented to
demonstrate how these can be achieved. Further refinement for practical
application of the models is also presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 601-609
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Building Portfolio Management Genetic Algorithms Asset Replacement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110062096
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110062096
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:601-609
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: The effect of first aid training on objective safety behaviour in Australian small business construction firms
Abstract:
A 24 week experiment was conducted to determine the effect of first aid
training on the occupational health and safety behaviour of participants
in small business construction firms in Australia. A purposeful sample of
22 small business construction industry participants was identified. A
simplified multiple baseline across workplace settings experimental design
was used to introduce first aid training to workplace settings on a
staggered basis. Objective measurement of occupational health and safety
behaviour was conducted, by a researcher directly observing the workplace,
before and after participants received first aid training. Individual
performance was measured using a 14-item 'individual safety measure' (ISM)
and global safety performance was measured using a 21-item 'global site
safety measure' (GSSM). Pre-training and post-training performance scores
for each category of safety performance were analysed using paired samples
t-tests. The results were mixed. Performance improved in three of the four
categories of safety performance measured by both the GSSM and ISM. The
statistical significance of these improvements varied between performance
categories. The results suggest that first aid training has a positive
effect on occupational health and safety behaviour in Australian
construction industry small businesses in the categories of personal
protective equipment and housekeeping.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-618
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: First Aid Occupational Health And Safety Behaviour Construction Small Business,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110049820
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110049820
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:611-618
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ang Yee Kwan
Author-X-Name-First: Ang Yee
Author-X-Name-Last: Kwan
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Chinese culture and successful implementation of partnering in Singapore's construction industry
Abstract:
Partnering is based on the principles of trust, mutual respect and
cooperation towards the achievement of a common goal. Although partnering
can help to resolve the problems of Singapore's construction industry, its
usage is relatively low. This paper examines whether Chinese culture can
facilitate partnering implementation in Singapore's construction industry.
This is because Chinese culture contains some values that are important
determinants of success of partnering. A postal survey on Chinese-owned
large contractors in Singapore was undertaken to ascertain how Chinese
culture influences their way of conducting business and the implementation
of partnering. The study showed that Chinese contractors understand their
culture as comprising certain core values that influence the operations of
their businesses and their relationships with others, and that Chinese
culture aids the implementation of partnering. It is suggested that
Chinese construction entrepreneurs should apply the elements of their
culture to formulate appropriate business practices, and to implement
partnering.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 619-632
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Partnering Chinese Culture Business Practices Construction Industry Singapore,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110062087
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110062087
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:619-632
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Ana Maria Rodriguez
Author-X-Name-First: Ana Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Rodriguez
Author-Name: Robert Glover
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Glover
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Title: Implementing a multiskilled workforce
Abstract:
Recent studies show the construction industry in the USA is facing a long
term labour shortage. Multiskilling has been suggested as a strategy to
address this issue by utilizing existing workers more efficiently.
Multiskilling decreases the number of workers hired for a project and can
improve productivity. Additional benefits include higher income and
increased employability of the workforce. To take full advantage of these
benefits, the workforce strategy and the planning and scheduling processes
of a construction project must be adapted to use multiskilling effectively
and efficiently. The multiskilled workforce should be scheduled and
organized to maximize the duration of employment for workers, reduce the
overall labour requirements and cover the skills combinations required by
the project. This research synthesizes and formalizes the methods that
successful construction companies are currently applying to implement a
multiskilled workforce. A methodology for implementing multiskilling is
outlined as well.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 633-641
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Labour Workforce Scheduling Planning Multiskilling Worker Utilization Allow Approx Picas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110050936
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110050936
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:633-641
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhang Hong
Author-X-Name-First: Zhang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hong
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Jonathan Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Title: Resource allocation heuristic in construction simulation
Abstract:
The quantity of some resources is limited because of project cost
constraints. These resources may be required by multiple activities
simultaneously during a construction process. In a discrete simulation
that models the construction process, tracing and controlling such
entities, e.g. resources, is crucial to simulation. This paper presents a
resource allocation point (RAP) heuristic that takes into account the
dynamic and stochastic charateristics of simulation to enable the
activity-based construction simulation system to process a decision-making
ability, i.e. allocating the limited resources to the multiple computing
activites during simulation. In addition, this paper introduces an
activity object-orientated approach that implements the RAP heuristic and
speeds up the simulation experimentation through initiating and checking
only related activity objects instead of scanning all activities as in a
pure activity scanning (AS) simulation strategy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 643-651
Issue: 6
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Resource Allocation Heuristic Construction Simulation Decision-MAKING Simulation Strategy Object Oriented Approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110063473
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110063473
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:6:p:643-651
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Tse
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Tse
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Title: Property rights implications of public-private joint ventures: a comment
Abstract:
Wong, K. C. and Walker, A. (2000) Construction Management and Economics,
18 (2), 131-138 have argued that co-operative joint venture arrangements
(with state enterprises in the People's Republic of China) reduce the
dissipation of rent under public ownership, which leads to an apparent
transfer of shares from the public institution to the private developer.
This proposition is challenged, and it is demonstrated using economic
analysis that co-operative joint ventures between Hong Kong and China are
a feasible option for developers and public institutions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 663-668
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Joint Ventures Hong Kong China Property Development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110065714
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110065714
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:663-668
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Matrix organizational structure, culture and commitment: a Hong Kong public sector case study of change
Abstract:
This paper reports on the impact of organizational change on a government
department in Hong Kong. It focuses on the perceptions of professional
personnel of the organizational culture developed in the depart4 ment and
its mismatch with their expectations. The commitment of the professionals
to their organization was measured, and found to be limited solely to a
level of continuance commitment. The results of the study are discussed
and explained in part by reference to Hofstede's cultural concepts of
power distance and individualism, and by reference to traditional Chinese
cultural values.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 669-673
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Organizational Change Organizational Culture Commitment Matrix Organization Cultural Values,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110066137
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110066137
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:669-673
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yat-Hung Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Yat-Hung
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Bo-Sin Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Bo-Sin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Wing-Yu Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Wing-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Title: Market structure of the construction industry in Hong Kong
Abstract:
This study examines the market structure of four different sectors within
the construction industry in Hong Kong. Market concentrations, expressed
in terms of Herfindahl-Hershamann indices (HHIs) and number equivalents
(HNEs), are calibrated for the top five contractors and compared with
those of the local property industry. The study reveals the following
ascending order of market concentrations: private building, public
building, property development, and civil engineering. Our explanation is
that technological and capital requirements have imposed a strong barrier
to entry into the civil engineering sector, resulting in a concentrated
market. Conversely, the lack of technological demand and supply in the
private building sector has led to easy market entry and exit. Building
contractors thus compete intensely on cost reduction rather than
technology improvement, leading to poor construction safety and product
quality. The paper concludes that the Government, being a major client of
construction works and regulator of the industry, can assume a more active
role in promoting the overall competitiveness of indigenous local
contractors in Hong Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 675-687
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Construction Market Structure Herfindahl-HERSHAMANN Indices Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110067046
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110067046
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:675-687
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Emad Elbeltagi
Author-X-Name-First: Emad
Author-X-Name-Last: Elbeltagi
Author-Name: Tarek Hegazy
Author-X-Name-First: Tarek
Author-X-Name-Last: Hegazy
Author-Name: Abdel Hady Hosny
Author-X-Name-First: Abdel Hady
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosny
Author-Name: Adel Eldosouky
Author-X-Name-First: Adel
Author-X-Name-Last: Eldosouky
Title: Schedule-dependent evolution of site layout planning
Abstract:
The appropriate layout of temporary facilities on a construction site has
a large impact on construction safety and productivity. For the duration
of a project the site layout may need to be efficiently re-organized at
various intervals to satisfy the schedule requirements and to maintain
site efficiency. This paper presents a practical model for
schedule-dependent site layout planning in construction. The proposed
model uses a combination of artificial intelligence tools (knowledge-based
systems, fuzzy logic, and genetic algorithms) to generate, optimize, and
re-organize the site layout plan at frequent intervals during the project.
The model incorporates flexible representation of irregular site shapes
and several options for placing facilities. Based on the proposed model,
an automated system is developed, fully integrated with widely used
scheduling software. At each schedule interval, the system recalculates
the space requirements and, for the convenience of congested sites, can
utilize parts of the constructed space to accommodate temporary
facilities. Details of the schedule-dependent model are described, and its
application in an actual case study project is presented to demonstrate
its capabilities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 689-697
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Site Layout Quantitative Evaluation Material Flow,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110066713
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110066713
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:689-697
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Esther Yung
Author-X-Name-First: Esther
Author-X-Name-Last: Yung
Author-Name: Patrick Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Application of Delphi method in selection of procurement systems for construction projects
Abstract:
A number of procurement selection systems have been developed over the
last decade. The use of multi-attribute decision analysis has been
considered the foremost technique for examining client needs and the
weightings of preferences from experts for each procurement system in the
most objective way available. However, the major difficulty of these
selection models lies in the lack of consensus among the experts on the
utility factor of the selection criteria. To overcome these deficiencies,
a Delphi technique was adopted to develop a multi-attribute model. Four
rounds of Delphi surveys were conducted. A statistically significant
consensus on the weighting of the utility factors for each procurement
system was obtained from eight experts. The results vividly reveal that
the Delphi method is a powerful and appropriate technique for deriving
objective opinions in a rather subjective area such as the multi-attribute
model for the selection of procurement system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 699-718
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Procurement System Multi-ATTRIBUTE Selection Model Delphi Method,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110066128
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110066128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:699-718
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gladys Kim Wan Siu
Author-X-Name-First: Gladys Kim Wan
Author-X-Name-Last: Siu
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Assessing the service quality of building maintenance providers: mechanical and engineering services
Abstract:
This study investigates the service quality in the maintenance of
mechanical and engineering services. The determinants of service quality
are identified and their means of evaluation are examined. A method of
assessment is devised based on the SERVQUAL approach, and its use is then
illustrated using a small empirical survey of clients and service
providers and the 'Gap' model used to quantify the relationships between
customer satisfaction, expected service, perceived service and service
quality gap.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 719-726
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Client Service Provider Service Quality Expectation Perception Satisfaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110062104
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110062104
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:719-726
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark Hall
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Hall
Author-Name: Cyril Tomkins
Author-X-Name-First: Cyril
Author-X-Name-Last: Tomkins
Title: A cost of quality analysis of a building project: towards a complete methodology for design and build
Abstract:
A number of studies have been published that claim to carry out cost of
quality (COQ) studies on construction projects. These studies, however,
have largely ignored the contribution of prevention and appraisal costs to
COQ, and have limited their analysis to the impact of quality failures on
the main contractor. This paper presents a methodology for assessing the
'complete' COQ for construction projects and reports on the findings of a
building project in the UK on which the methodology was piloted. The
company that applied this approach has now extended it to other projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 727-740
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Quality Management Cost Of Quality Cost Of Nonconformance Building Design And Build,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110066146
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110066146
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:727-740
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. M. M. Teo
Author-X-Name-First: M. M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Teo
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: A theory of waste behaviour in the construction industry
Abstract:
Levels of waste within the construction industry need to be reduced for
environmental and economic reasons. Changing people's wasteful behaviour
can make a significant contribution. This paper describes a research
project that used Ajzen's 'theory of planned behaviour' to investigate the
attitudinal forces that shape behaviour at the operative level. It
concludes that operatives see waste as an inevitable by-product of
construction activity. Attitudes towards waste management are not
negative, although they are pragmatic and impeded by perceptions of a lack
of managerial commitment. Waste management is perceived as a low project
priority, and there is an absence of appropriate resources and incentives
to support it. A theory of waste behaviour is proposed for the
construction industry, and recommendations are made to help managers
improve operatives' attitudes towards waste.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 741-751
Issue: 7
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Attitudes Waste Behaviour Operatives Environment Sustainability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110067037
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110067037
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:7:p:741-751
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: The predictive ability of Bromilow's time-cost model: a comment
Abstract:
The study of the relationship between construction time and cost has a
long history. This paper reviews the report of Ng, S.T., Mak, M.,
Skitmore, R.M., Lam, K.C. and Varnam, M. (2001) Construction Management
and Economics, 19, 165, and reveals they have made a substantial
contribution to the method of analysis but that they have not sufficiently
justified their case in light of the literature, and have not understood
the role of sample sizes and confidence limits in the interpretation of
their results. In particular, the present paper challenges their
conclusion that a long term trend of improvement has been identified. This
debate raises important epistemological questions for forecasting and
modelling trends using generic time-cost models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 759-764
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Time Cost Construction Performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110073490
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110073490
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:759-764
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Seung Han
Author-X-Name-First: Seung
Author-X-Name-Last: Han
Author-Name: James Diekmann
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Diekmann
Title: Making a risk-based bid decision for overseas construction projects
Abstract:
The globalization of international construction markets provides
tremendous opportunities for contractors to expand into new foreign
markets. However, entry decisions for international construction markets
are very risky and more difficult than those for domestic markets, due to
the wide variety of uncertainties and complexities associated with the
international construction domain. This paper focuses on developing and
testing a 'risk-based go/no-go decision-making model' for contractors who
wish to expand into international construc5 tion markets. The go/no-go
decision model applies the cross-impact analysis (CIA) method to assess
the various uncertainties associated with international construction. This
research draws significant findings regarding the benefits of this
go/no-go decision model from experimental studies involving 56
participants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 765-776
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: International Projects Risk Analysis Risk-BASED Entry Decision Model Cross-IMPACT Analysis Experimental Case Studies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110072860
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110072860
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:765-776
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kerry London
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: London
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: An industrial organization economic supply chain approach for the construction industry: a review
Abstract:
Understanding industries in terms of the concepts of chains, clusters and
networks is becoming increasingly important in economies around the world.
Supply chain management for an individual organization is an emerging
field of research in the construction management discipline, but less
attention has been devoted to investigating the nature of the construction
supply chains and their industrial organizational economic environment.
This selected review of construction and mainstream management supply
chain literature is organized around four themes; distribution,
production, strategic procurement management and industrial organization
economics, and highlights the need to develop an industrial organization
economic supply chain framework for construction. The merging of the
supply chain concept with the industrial organization model as a
methodology for understanding firm conduct and industry structure and
performance is an important contribution to both construction supply chain
and construction economic theory. Much of the industrial organization
supply chain literature has tended to focus upon manufacturing industries,
where typically firms are permanent organizations. This raises issues as
to the differences between industries founded upon temporary compared with
permanent organizations. There is potential for the development of an
industrial organization methodology applicable to the project based
industry. Ultimately industrial organization research seeks to have direct
implications for industry performance and government policies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-788
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Supply Chain Theory Critical Review Construction Industry Industrial Organization Economics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110081699
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110081699
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:777-788
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdul-Rashid Abdul-Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul-Rashid
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Aziz
Title: Foreign workers and labour segmentation in Malaysia's construction industry
Abstract:
One of the profound changes to have taken place over the last two decades
in the construction industry in Malaysia is the emergence of foreign site
operatives as an indispensable component of the labour force. This
research shows that they have been exposed to some degree of
discrimination at the hands of local employers. Labour segmentation has
prevailed as a consequence of variability in country-specific traits.
Schisms between the foreign nationals and local workers and between the
various foreign nationals operate to the employers' advantage in that
greater control can be exerted. Labour violations have always been an
inexorable feature of the Malaysian construction industry, with little
prospect of reform. As there seem to be no signs of the dependence on
foreign workers attenuating, future waves of migrant workers can expect to
be subjected to the same employer treatment, and hence labour
segmentation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 789-798
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Labour Malaysia Segmentation Site Operatives Treatment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110072022
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110072022
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:789-798
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Governing the project process: a conceptual framework
Abstract:
There has been considerable development in a process approach in
construction management research in recent years. However, such work begs
the question of how those processes are governed. Processes, be they flows
of information or materials, need to be channelled in the desired
direction as they are handed from team to team. This paper aims to present
a conceptual framework for understanding the governance of construction
project processes, drawing on transaction cost economics. Earlier attempts
to apply this theoretical framework in construction management research
have been partial, in that they have focused on only one type of
transaction, typically that between client and principal contractor. This
paper aims to be comprehensive in covering all the different transactions
throughout the project lifecycle within one conceptual framework, and
thereby it is hoped that more incisive empirical research can be developed
and executed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 799-808
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Project Processes Project Lifecycle Transaction Costs Project Coalition Project Governance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110074264
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110074264
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:799-808
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Guinevere Gilbert
Author-X-Name-First: Guinevere
Author-X-Name-Last: Gilbert
Author-Name: Peter Graham
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Graham
Title: Improving solid waste reduction and recycling performance using goal setting and feedback
Abstract:
A multiple-baseline experiment design across waste streams was used to
determine the effectiveness of a goal setting and feedback intervention in
bringing about improved solid waste management performance on a sports
stadium construction site in Australia. A desktop method was used to
measure the volume of timber and construction waste disposed as landfill
and recycled. A general index of material usage efficiency and two
recycling indices were calculated. Performance was measured each fortnight
and formal goal setting and performance feedback were introduced to the
timber and concrete waste streams. The intervention was effective in
reducing the volume of waste disposed as landfill and increasing material
usage efficiency, indicating that solid waste was reduced at source or
re-used. Recycling performance did not improve significantly with the
introduction of the intervention. This may be due to the way in which
construction workers perceive the costs and benefits of recycling.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 809-817
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Solid Waste Reduction Re-USE Recycling Motivation Construction Australia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110070952
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110070952
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:809-817
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mekdam Nima
Author-X-Name-First: Mekdam
Author-X-Name-Last: Nima
Author-Name: Mohd Abdul-Kadir
Author-X-Name-First: Mohd
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Kadir
Author-Name: Mohd Jaafar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohd
Author-X-Name-Last: Jaafar
Author-Name: Riadh Alghulami
Author-X-Name-First: Riadh
Author-X-Name-Last: Alghulami
Title: Constructability implementation: a survey in the Malaysian construction industry
Abstract:
Twenty-three constructability concepts are identified. Based on these, an
industry-wide questionnaire was administrated in Peninsular Malaysia. The
respondents were the engineers working with owners, consultants,
contractors, subcontractors and construction management firms. The
importance, from the viewpoint of the Malaysian engineers, of the
constructability concepts and the degree of the actual application of
those concepts in the Malaysian Construction Industry is presented so that
an insight on constructability implementation can be established.
Fieldwork results revealed that the Malaysian engineers showed high
acceptance of 22 concepts and rejected the one that relates to the
fast-track method of construction. Those engineers accepted the
constructability concepts from the theoretical point of view but generally
they did not apply these concepts in their practices. The study also
concludes that the Malaysian engineers show a wide understanding of the
majority of the concepts. However, they did not link those concepts under
the umbrella of constructability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 819-829
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Constructability Implementation Buildability Construction Management Construction Knowledge Fast Track,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110089709
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110089709
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:819-829
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Campbell Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Campbell
Author-X-Name-Last: Fraser
Author-Name: Anna Zarkada-Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Zarkada-Fraser
Title: The philosophy, structure and objectives of research and development in Japan
Abstract:
This paper presents an overview of the philosophy, structure and key
objectives of R&D activity in the Japanese construction industry. It
argues that this unique model of a close partnership between industry,
government and society is based on shared values, and delivers significant
benefits not only for firms but for society at large. Additionally, the
Japanese system acts as an efficient market entry barrier that protects
the Japanese domestic market from foreign competition while concurrently
providing the basis of Japan's competitive advantage in international
markets. To illustrate how significantly different the Japanese model is
from those of other advanced economies, an empirical comparison of the
belief structures concerning responsibility for R&D of key players in the
construction industries in Japan and Australia is presented. The results
illustrate the point that, unlike Australia, Japanese contractors play a
much more extensive role in society than do their Australian counterparts.
This role incongruence may be the true barrier to penetration of the
Japanese construction market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 831-840
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Research And Development Japan Australia Contractor International Marketing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110074255
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110074255
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:831-840
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Geoffrey Briscoe
Author-X-Name-First: Geoffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Briscoe
Author-Name: Sarah Millett
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Millett
Title: Subcontractor perspectives on supply chain alliances
Abstract:
Since the publication of the Egan report in 1998, there has been a strong
and consistent emphasis on the need to integrate the project delivery
process via partnering and strategic alliancing agreements throughout the
UK construction industry. However, given the continued reliance on
subcontracting within the sector, future performance improvement also
requires an acceptance of the benefits of supply chain partnering and
integration from the small-to-medium size businesses who carry out the
majority of construction work. This paper presents the findings of a
research project that examined subcontractor perspectives on supply chain
alliances. The study has uncovered serious concerns among subcontractors
that point towards a fundamental mistrust and scepticism within existing
supply chain relationships. These have the potential to inhibit further
improvements in the efficacy of the project delivery process. A range of
attitudinal change requirements for integrating smaller companies into the
drive for continuous improvement are identified. It is suggested that
leading clients should take responsibility for engendering the necessary
attitudinal change throughout their supplier networks if further
performance improvement is to be realized within the sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 841-848
Issue: 8
Volume: 19
Year: 2001
Keywords: Subcontractors Supply Chain Management Partnering Integration Culture,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110089727
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110089727
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:19:y:2001:i:8:p:841-848
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Milan Radosavljevic
Author-X-Name-First: Milan
Author-X-Name-Last: Radosavljevic
Author-Name: R. Malcolm
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Malcolm
Author-Name: W. Horner
Author-X-Name-First: W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: The evidence of complex variability in construction labour productivity
Abstract:
The complex variability of the 12 construction labour productivity data
sets has been examined by analysing the central moments of tendency, and
applying the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Anderson-Darling tests of normality.
The results consistently show that the productivity is not normally
distributed. In addition, undefined variance causes a failure of the
central limit theorem, thus indicating that some basic statistical
diagnostics like correlation coefficients and t statistics may give
misleading results and are not applicable. A brief comparison with
volatility studies in econometrics has revealed surprising similarity with
Pareto distributions, which can model undefined or infinite variance. Such
distributions are typical of chaotic systems like the logistic equation,
whose properties also are described briefly. Therefore, it is suggested
that future research should be focused on studying the applicability of
chaos theory to construction labour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-12
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction, Labour Productivity, Normal Distribution, Tests, Chaos,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110098961
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110098961
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:3-12
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. B. Idrus
Author-X-Name-First: A. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Idrus
Author-Name: J. B. Newman
Author-X-Name-First: J. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Newman
Title: Construction related factors influencing the choice of concrete floor systems
Abstract:
Designers have a wide choice of concrete floor systems for their
buildings. They can choose from three basic types available: in situ,
precast or hybrid construction. A survey was conducted within the UK
construction industry to investigate, in particular, the construction
related factors influencing the choice of concrete floor systems. The data
collected were subjected to frequency and severity index analyses,
Kendall's concordance test and the chi-squared tests to produce a rank
ordering of 12 construction related factors. Five factors were identified
as being the most important, namely 'appropriateness of use', 'cost',
'constructability', 'speed' and 'health and safety'. These five factors
reflect current industry emphasis, and therefore could be adopted as the
principal criteria for evaluating and selecting concrete floor systems
during the design stage. They could also be used as assessment criteria
for developing future systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 13-19
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Concrete Floors, Frame Construction, Selection Factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110101218
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110101218
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:13-19
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eva Sterner
Author-X-Name-First: Eva
Author-X-Name-Last: Sterner
Title: 'Green procurement' of buildings: a study of Swedish clients' considerations
Abstract:
The results of a survey show that both public and private building
clients in Sweden, to varying extents, include environmental requirements
in their procurement documents. The requirements identified have been
classified into six categories primarily related to building and
demolition waste, building material, contractors' environmental work,
ecological aspects, construction work and other. One conclusion is that
requirements regarding the separation of waste and a contractor's
environmental policy are considered important, since they are stipulated
in the majority of projects. Another finding is that requirements related
to operation and especially to energy use are not considered sufficiently.
Structured interviews were conducted with three of the clients who at that
time of the survey had developed the most complete procurement documents
with regard to environmental requirements. The aim of the interviews was
to investigate how the stipulation of requirements, the evaluation of
environmental aspects and the verification of environmental requirements
were carried out. The conclusion drawn is that Swedish clients find the
stipulation of requirements relatively uncomplicated, but find the
evaluation of environmental impact, mainly related to selection of
materials, problematic due to inadequate evaluation models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-30
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction, Environmental Requirement, Sustainable Construction, Procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110093560
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110093560
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:21-30
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Author-Name: Yue Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Yue
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Project understanding, planning, flexibility of management action and construction time performance: two Australian case studies
Abstract:
Construction time performance (CTP) and flexibility in approaches to
project time planning have been shown to be significantly associated. This
raises interesting questions about how effective planning and control to
facilitate flexibility in overcoming unexpected problems may be achieved.
Case study data were used to explore links between planning and
flexibility. This paper reports upon a recent study of two highly complex
projects, a mental and forensic health hospital and a very large
freeway/bridge/tunnel urban infrastructure project. The authors
investigated planning flexibility using a framework of project team
understanding and knowledge transfer to provide a model that contributes
to our understanding of mechanisms and drivers that delivers flexible
behaviour that may affect CTP. We conclude that both ability, supported by
organizational and team competence, and commitment to explore construction
method options in a flexible manner, i.e. responding to unanticipated
problems, are necessary to facilitate good construction time performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 31-44
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Time Performance, Construction Planning, Agility, Flexibility, Project Complexity, Case Study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110089691
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110089691
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:31-44
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Motiar Rahman
Author-X-Name-First: M. Motiar
Author-X-Name-Last: Rahman
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: Joint risk management through transactionally efficient relational contracting
Abstract:
The appropriate contracting method and the contract documents for any
construction project depend on the nature of the project, but an
appropriate contracting method coupled with clear and equitable contract
documents do not by themselves ensure project success where people work
together in the face of uncertainty and complexity with diverse interests
and conflicting agendas. The attitudes of the contracting parties and the
co-operative relationships among the project participants are important
for successful project delivery. These are examined in the light of
transaction cost economics and relational contracting (RC) principles. It
is found that RC may well be a useful route towards reduced transaction
costs, while also fostering co-operative relationships and better teamwork
that in turn facilitate joint risk management (JRM). The usefulness of the
latter is reinforced by relevant observations from a recent Hong
Kong-based survey, followed by a case study in Mainland China. A basic
model is conceptualized for improved project delivery via JRM. This is
also seen to be reinforceable by further transactional efficiencies that
can be achieved through other RC-based approaches, such as partnering or
alliancing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Co-OPERATIVE Teamwork, Joint Risk Management, Project Delivery, Relational Contracting, Transaction Cost Economics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110089682
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110089682
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:45-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Huan Neng Chiu
Author-X-Name-First: Huan Neng
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiu
Author-Name: Deng Maw Tsai
Author-X-Name-First: Deng Maw
Author-X-Name-Last: Tsai
Title: An efficient search procedure for the resource-constrained multi-project scheduling problem with discounted cash flows
Abstract:
The main purposes of this study are to incorporate both the project delay
penalty and early completion bonus into the objective function of the
resource-constrained multi-project scheduling problem with discounted cash
flows (RCMPSP-DCF) and to develop an efficient heuristic search scheduling
rule. The effectiveness of the proposed heuristic rule is evaluated by
comparing it with the optimal solution obtained by the optimal model for
42 small-scale problems. The result indicates that the solution obtained
using the proposed heuristic rule is very close to the optimal solution,
and that the proposed heuristic rule provides significant savings in
computation time. Moreover, the proposed heuristic rule is also compared
with four existing heuristic rules based on an experiment involving the
single-project and multi-project scheduling problems. The results indicate
that the proposed heuristic rule is superior to the four existing rules
under the performance criteria of the average total project net present
value and the average total project delay. In addition, the number of
times that the proposed heuristic rule can obtain the best solution is
also far more than that of any other rule considered in this paper under
the two aforementioned performance criteria. Furthermore, this study has
found that the performance of a heuristic scheduling rule is significantly
affected by the number of projects. A rule that can lower the total
project delay to the minimum is also able to maxi5 mize the total project
net present value.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-66
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Multi-PROJECT Scheduling, Project Management, Resource Constraints, Net Present Value, Heuristic Rules,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110089718
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110089718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:55-66
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Sandy Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Sandy
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: H. P. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: H. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Title: Developing a tendering strategy in two-envelope fee tendering based on technical score-fee variability
Abstract:
Consultants, in competing for work through two-envelope fee tendering,
have been urged to consider variability differences between fees and
technical scores, since the criterion with the greatest variability will
influence which consultant is awarded the contract. Fee and technical
score variability arising from different client fee tendering competitions
is analysed in this paper, and a method proposed for determining whether a
particular client's two-envelope fee tendering competition is likely to be
dominated in terms of technical score or fee. Such information should be
useful to consultants, as part of their bidding strategy, in deciding
whether to aim for a higher technical score or submit a lower fee.
Standard deviation is used to measure fee and technical score variability.
Fee and technical score standard deviations are determined for each
tendering competition, expressed as a ratio and aggregated over a series
of competitions. A technical score-fee standard deviation ratio
approximately equal to unity indicates that for future competitions
consultants should adopt a balanced bidding strategy in putting equal
emphasis on fee and technical score. A smaller ratio indicates that
consultants should adopt a 'low fee' strategy whereas a larger ratio shows
that consultants should adopt a 'high technical score' strategy. Fee
tendering data from two large Hong Kong public sector clients were
analysed. Fees were found to dominate the vast majority of tendering
competitions, thereby indicating that consultants would be wise to adopt a
low fee strategy in future competitions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 67-81
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Bidding, Consultant, Strategy, Technical Score, Tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110096918
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110096918
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:67-81
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Raftery curve construction for tender price forecasts
Abstract:
John Raftery (1993), in his Inaugural Lecture at the University of
Greenwich, suggested that project cost estimates be presented in the form
of cumulative probability functions (termed here 'Raftery curves') rather
than the current practice of single-point estimates. This paper describes
a method for the empirical construction of Raftery curves for tender price
forecasts, which then is applied to ten previously published data sets
gathered throughout the world. In comparing the resulting curves, the most
consistent feature is shown to be the shift associated with to the number
of bidders entering bids for contracts. This is examined both in terms of
bias and consistency. Contrary to some previous studies, no evidence is
found of any trends related to the value size of projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 83-89
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Cost, Time, Forecasting, Probability, Bidders, Range Estimates,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110093551
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110093551
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:83-89
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: D. W. Chau
Author-X-Name-First: D. W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chau
Title: Racial discrimination towards Asian operatives in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
This paper investigates racial discrimination towards Asian operatives in
the Australian construction industry. It explores the extent of this
discrimination, the form it is taking, the impact it is having and how it
is being managed. The paper reveals an assimilationist culture which
largely ignores the needs of ethnic minority groups and fails to harness
the positive attributes of multiculturalism. Ironically, in comparison
with other industries, the construction industry is relatively well placed
to benefit from cultural diversity, and a number of suggestions are made
to help companies achieve this. These suggestions are of value to managers
in other countries because racism is not a problem that is unique to the
Australian construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-102
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Racism, Discrimination, Asian, Culture, Diversity, Behaviour, Australia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110090996
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110090996
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:91-102
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Book reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 103-104
Issue: 1
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110091003
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110091003
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:1:p:103-104
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Job De Haan
Author-X-Name-First: Job
Author-X-Name-Last: De Haan
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Geert-Jan Joosten
Author-X-Name-First: Geert-Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Joosten
Title: Market strategies and core capabilities in the building industry
Abstract:
The objective of this study is to show that the core competence approach
has validity when applied to construction. The focus is on the analysis of
the fit between market strategies of firms in the building industry and
their core capabilities. Certain strategies require specific core
capabilities and key external and internal conditions supporting these
capabilities. The resource-based approach focuses on the conditions in a
firm, the internal capabilities, and supports a core capability that is
demanded. The network literature will be related to external conditions
that support a core capability of a firm active in a certain market. In a
multiple case study, firms are analysed that are involved in different
stages of the building process. The case studies demonstrate firms with
consistent patterns of market strategies, core capabilities, and
supporting internal and external conditions. The specific core capability
of the firm under investigation determines the types of external and
internal conditions that are critical.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-118
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Core Capability, Construction, Systems Approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110108662
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110108662
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:109-118
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tien Foo Sing
Author-X-Name-First: Tien Foo
Author-X-Name-Last: Sing
Title: Time to build options in construction processes
Abstract:
Time to build is a very important factor in a real estate development
venture. Delay in completion of a project not only affects the financing
costs and the rental revenue but also it may, on a more strategic note,
determine the success or failure of a project. A time to build option
model consisting of a stochastic rate of completion and a stochastic net
project payoff is applied to the sequential construction process of a
large scale construction project. The results of the sensitivity analysis
show that the optimal payoff value, that triggers the exercise of the
option to invest at a maximum rate, increases positively with the
increases in cash flow volatility, input cost uncertainty, excess asset
return per unit risk and maximum rate of investment. However, it has a
negative relationship with the rental yield. In a case study involving a
commercial project, the premium for hedging the payoff risks by
pre-leasing a project was estimated at 11.29%, whereas the additional cost
incurred for shielding a project against input cost risks in a design and
build contract was estimated at 7.80%, where each is given as a percentage
of the total construction costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 119-130
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Time To Build Option, Project Payoff Uncertainty, Input Cost Uncertainty, Sequential Investment, Option Premium,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619011010209
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619011010209
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:119-130
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sou-Sen Leu
Author-X-Name-First: Sou-Sen
Author-X-Name-Last: Leu
Author-Name: Tzung-Heng Hung
Author-X-Name-First: Tzung-Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Hung
Title: A genetic algorithm-based optimal resource-constrained scheduling simulation model
Abstract:
Resources for construction activities are limited in the real
construction world so that scheduling must include resource allocation.
Furthermore, activity duration is uncertain due to the variation in the
outside environment, such as resource availabilities, weather, space
congestion, etc. A new optimal resource-constrained construction
scheduling simulation model is proposed in this paper, in which the
effects of both uncertain activity duration and resource constraints are
taken into account. Probability distribution is used to model the
uncertainties of activity duration. An optimal schedule simulation model
is then established in which a genetic algorithm-based search technique is
adopted to search for the probabilistic optimal project duration under
resource constraints. The model can effectively provide the optimal
averaged project duration, cumulative project completion probabilities and
the impact of influence factors on the probabilistic resource-constrained
scheduling problem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-141
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Resource Allocation, Genetic Algorithms, Scheduling, Construction Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110109148
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110109148
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:131-141
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Ping Ho
Author-X-Name-First: S. Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Liang Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Liang
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: An option pricing-based model for evaluating the financial viability of privatized infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Privatized infrastructure projects have to demonstrate their financial
and technical viability before they are undertaken. Although it is
relatively easy to demonstrate the technical viability of an
infrastructure project, the evaluation of the financial viability of a
privatized infrastructure project is complex and challenging, mainly
because of the uncertainties involved due to the project's scale, long
concession period and complexity. Traditional methods, such as net present
value (NPV) analysis, fall short in reflecting the characteristics of
privatized infrastructure projects and the risks involved. This paper
presents an option pricing based model, the BOT option valuation (BOT-OV)
model, for evaluating the financial viability of a privatized
infrastructure project. This quantitative model considers the project
characteristics explicitly and evaluates the project from the perspectives
of the project promoter and of the government when the project is under
bankruptcy risk. Moreover, the model can evaluate the impact of the
government guarantee and the developer negotiation option on the project
financial viability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 143-156
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Privatized Infrastructure, Option Pricing Theory, Financial Decision-MAKING, Investment Evaluation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110110533
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110110533
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:143-156
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Po Yin Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Po Yin
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: H. P. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: H. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Title: Correcting the fee-technical score variability imbalance in two-envelope fee tendering
Abstract:
Consultants' fees and technical submissions in two-envelope fee tendering
are usually converted to scores. The fee scores and technical (quality)
scores are then multiplied by predetermined weightings and aggregated. To
preserve the desired influence of the predetermined weightings, the fee
score and technical score variability differences need to be balanced,
otherwise, when aggregated, one variable will end up dominating the other
variable. Currently, such adjustments are not undertaken in the popular
two-envelope fee tendering models. It seems that in many cases the
consultant selection becomes biased in favour of the lowest fee rather
than the quality. Important influences that contribute to the
fee-technical score variability imbalance include suicidal fees and
non-serious fees (which increases fee variability) and similar size
consultant firms with similar experience and workload levels offering
similar, if not identical, services (which reduces technical score
variability). This paper offers four alternative approaches to the
correction of the fee-technical score variability imbalance. If the client
is able to distinguish between suicidal, serious and non-serious fees,
then it is suggested that first the consultants submitting suicidal and
non-serious fees should be disregarded. A normalization approach (in which
the consultant's technical and fee scores are re-scaled to fall between
unity and zero) should then be applied. If the client is unable or
unwilling to distinguish between suicidal, serious and non-serious fees
then aggregating on the basis of the consultants fee and technical score
rankings appears to be the best method out of the three remaining
approaches.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 157-166
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Bidding, Consultant, Technical Score, Tendering, Two-ENVELOPE, Variability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110098970
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110098970
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:157-166
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Davide Nicolini
Author-X-Name-First: Davide
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicolini
Title: In search of 'project chemistry'
Abstract:
The paper aims to provide a language and a conceptual toolkit to deepen
our understanding of the impact of relational and social issues on the
success of construction projects. Building on several streams of
literature, as well as on individual and group interviews with
construction practitioners, the paper develops the notion of 'project
chemistry' as a way of capturing some of the relational and behavioural
dimensions and factors that may affect project success and effectiveness
in construction. The paper introduces a provisional theoretical framework
that (a) identifies a number of external and project level determinants of
'project chemistry', (b) suggests ways of measuring how and how well
people interact, perceive, and work together in a project, and (c) relates
these issues to broader economic and technical factors. The paper
concludes with some reflections on the implications and challenges for
future research and management practices raised by the notion of 'project
chemistry'.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 167-177
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Project Management, Project Success Factors, Human Resource Management, Behavioural Aspects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110101217
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110101217
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:167-177
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Aoieong
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Aoieong
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Syed Ahmed
Author-X-Name-First: Syed
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmed
Title: A process approach in measuring quality costs of construction projects: model development
Abstract:
One of the most effective tools for evaluating the success of a quality
management programme is the measurement of quality costs (prevention,
appraisal and failure costs). The application of the concept of quality
costs originated in the manufacturing industry in the early 1950s. As
increasing attention has been given to improving the overall quality in
the construction process since the early 1980s, the application of total
quality management (TQM) practices in the construction industry has gained
much popularity. A systematic approach is needed for measuring quality
costs, especially in the construction industry, due to the great number
and complexity of activities involved in a typical project. This paper
describes how a simple methodology can be used to capture quality costs in
construction projects. Pre-existing models for capturing construction
quality costs, by Davis, by Abdul-Rahman, by Low and Yeo and by others,
recognize quality cost components but do not address the causes or sources
of unwanted deviations. This paper proposes an alternative approach, based
on the process cost model and in conformance with BS6143 (1992), which is
thought to better facilitate the fundamental goal of TQM, i.e. continual
process improvement. A number of professionals involved in construction
quality management were interviewed and responded favourably to the
practicality of the proposed framework in the construction context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 179-192
Issue: 2
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction, Quality Management, Quality Costs, Process Cost Model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110109157
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110109157
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:2:p:179-192
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Khaled El-Rayes
Author-X-Name-First: Khaled
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Rayes
Author-Name: Ramaneetharan Ramanathan
Author-X-Name-First: Ramaneetharan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramanathan
Author-Name: Osama Moselhi
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Moselhi
Title: An object-oriented model for planning and control of housing construction
Abstract:
A practical object-oriented model for the planning and control of housing
construction is presented that can generate efficient schedules and
determine the time and cost performance of a housing project at three
levels: (i) entire project, (ii) particular housing unit and (iii) an
individual subcontractor. The model comprises five major components: (1)
input module, (2) scheduling module, (3) database module, (4) control
module and (5) reports module, and incorporates 18 classes that are
designed to address the main requirements in planning and control of
housing construction. The model is implemented as a user-friendly
prototype software system using Visual C++ 6.0 and Microsoft Foundation
Class (MFC). The prototype software is named 'Residential Planner', and
runs in Windows 2000 and NT. An example of an application is analysed to
illus8 trate the use of the developed model and demonstrate its practical
features.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 201-210
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Housing Construction, Repetitive Construction, Object-ORIENTED Modelling, Planning And Scheduling, Construction Control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110115312
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110115312
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:201-210
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Firuzan Yasamis
Author-X-Name-First: Firuzan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yasamis
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Jamshid Mohammadi
Author-X-Name-First: Jamshid
Author-X-Name-Last: Mohammadi
Title: Assessing contractor quality performance
Abstract:
This paper proposes a radical change in industry practice that will
improve the quality of the construction process and the levels of customer
satisfaction derived from it by evaluating the quality performance of the
contractor. An alternative theory is developed of what constitutes
quality, client satisfaction, performance, and their interrelationships in
the context of the construction industry. It should be noted here that the
term construction client includes both the owner (i.e. the agency or
organization funding the project) and the end-user of the construction
(i.e. the general public). A comprehensive view of construction quality is
proposed that deals with both the service (as received by the owner) and
product (as received by the end-user) aspects of the construction project
as well as the corporate quality culture. Such a dissection of
construction activity facilitates developing strategies to define,
operationalize, measure and improve construction quality. A frame4 work
for the assessment of a contractor's quality performance is established.
This involves gathering a list of contractor quality performance (CQP)
indicators that are derived from various quality-related practices of the
contractor at the corporate and project level. Finally, a contractor
quality performance (CQP) evaluation model is introduced that can be used
in a contractor prequalification and/or selection system. The CQP
indicators are operationalized within the theoretical framework of the CQP
evaluation model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 211-223
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Contractor Quality Performance, Quality Control, Quality Assurance, Prequalification, Contractor Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110113693
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110113693
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:211-223
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Trefor Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Trefor
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Title: Predicting completed project cost using bidding data
Abstract:
Neural network and regression models have been developed to predict the
completed cost of competitively bid highway projects constructed by the
New Jersey Department of Transportation. Bid information was studied for
inclusion as inputs to the models. Data studied included the low bid,
median bid, standard devi9 ation of the bids, expected project duration
and the number of bids. A natural log transformation of the data was found
to improve the linear relationship between the low bid and completed cost.
The stepwise regression procedure was applied, and yielded the best
performing predictive model. This regression model used only the natural
log of the low bid as independent variable to predict the natural log of
the completed cost. Radial basis neural networks were also constructed to
predict the final cost. The best performing regres4 sion model produced
superior predictions to the best performing neural network model. Hybrid
models that used a regression model prediction as an input to a neural
network were also studied and were found to also produce reasonable
predictions. The calculated models produced good predictions of the
completed project cost, but were found to be deficient in predicting very
large cost increases. Simple models using the natural log of the low bid
as input produced the best results. From the analysis it may be concluded
that additional information about the variability of the bids submitted
does not provide useful information for predicting the final project
outcome.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 225-235
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Bidding, Project Costs, Neural Networks, Regression Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110112838
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110112838
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:225-235
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Anson
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Anson
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: K. C. Ying
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ying
Title: Measurement of the performance of ready mixed concreting resources as data for system simulation
Abstract:
Concrete is a very important construction industry material, and this is
especially true in Hong Kong. The efficient organization of the supply of
concrete from ready mixed concrete plants is beneficial to both concrete
companies and contractors. It is also essential for an efficient
construction industry, since a very high propor1 tion of the in situ
concrete in Hong Kong is supplied ready mixed from an off-site plant.
Whether concrete companies in Hong Kong are using their resources well and
are able to satisfactorily match the timing of their deliveries to
construction site needs are questions discussed in this paper, based on
data collected by the authors. The data are planned for use in validating
a simulation model of ready mixed concrete plant operations in Hong Kong.
The third author spent 20 weeks in 1999-2000 at concrete batching plants
in Hong Kong, studying their operations. Data on a sample of 15 typical
operational days at four plants, which included 295 pours on sites and
1677 truckmixer trips, are presented. Truckmixer journey times for
delivering concrete and journey times for returning to plants and their
distributions have been found. Queuing statistics for truckmixers on site
waiting to be unloaded, placing times when unloading concrete, washing out
and waiting times on sites after unloading, and delays in the continuous
delivery of concrete are also described. Service has been studied in terms
of the matching achieved between site delivery timing require1 ments and
the need to use truckmixers efficiently. For the 295 pours, the
relationship is shown between gaps in the supply of concrete to site and
the extent to which truckmixers are bunched in a queue on site. Matching
was found to be good for only 17% of the 295 pours, the variability in
service received by different sites is considerable, and the importance of
studying the truckmixer scheduling problem is highlighted, so that this
variability might be reduced and extreme cases eliminated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-250
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Concrete, Ready Mixed Concrete, Concrete Plant, Truckmixers, Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210121297
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:237-250
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Kirkham
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Kirkham
Author-Name: A. Halim Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: A. Halim
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Author-Name: Belal Awwad
Author-X-Name-First: Belal
Author-X-Name-Last: Awwad
Title: Probability distributions of facilities management costs for whole life cycle costing in acute care NHS hospital buildings
Abstract:
Whole life cycle costing (WLCC) can provide a valuable insight into the
economic efficiency of National Health Service (NHS) acute care hospital
buildings. The costs of the facilities management function form an
integral part of that process. However, the nature of facilities
management cost data collated by NHS Estates informs the analyst little
about the relationship between the physical characteristics of hospital
buildings and the facilities management costs. The data can only be used
to benchmark trusts total facilities management spending, but what the NHS
now requires is a way of being able to model the facilities management
costs for particular buildings. The purpose of this paper is to
demonstrate, using a case study, a methodology for modelling
stochastically the facilities management costs in NHS acute care hospital
buildings. The data used in this research were obtained from NHS Estates
on the facilities management costs of over 450 acute care NHS Trusts in
England and Wales. The data were analysed to obtain the parameters of the
theoretical distributions that best describe the facilities management
costs for a ward block building in a large university acute care teaching
hospital. The accuracy of these distributions was then validated using
various hypotheses and goodness-of-fit tests. The result of this work
provides analysts with a framework whereby the facilities management costs
in acute care hospital buildings can be modelled as stochastic assumptions
in the modelling of WLCC. The paper also reveals that for acute care
hospital buildings with a similar gross floor area to that of the building
used in the case study (that is approximately 20% of the entire acute care
hospital estate), the underlying distribution of costs is likely to belong
to the loglogistic distribution
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 251-261
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Whole Life Cycle Costing, Probability Density Functions, Facilities Management Costs, National Health Service, Acute Care Hospital Buildings,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110113701
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110113701
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:251-261
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: The effect of first aid training on Australian construction workers' occupational health and safety knowledge and motivation to avoid work-related injury or illness
Abstract:
A 24 week experiment was conducted to assess the effect of first aid
training on small business construction industry participants'
understanding of occupational health and safety (OHS) risks and risk
controls and their motivation to avoid occupational injuries and
illnesses. Participants' subjective understandings of OHS risks, options
for risk control and motivation to control OHS risks were explored during
in-depth interviews before and after receipt of first aid training.
Interview data revealed that, other than raising awareness of the risk of
infectious diseases, the first aid training did not increase participants'
understandings of the nature or severity of specific OHS risks relevant to
their work. First aid training appeared to reduce participants'
'self-other' bias, making them more aware that their experience of OHS
risks was not beyond their control but that their own behaviour was also
an important factor in the avoidance of occupational injury and illness.
First aid training also appeared to reduce participants' willingness to
accept prevailing levels of OHS risk. Participants' understandings of
methods by which OHS risks can be controlled were unchanged by the first
aid training and are limited to individual controls. First aid training
did appear to increase participants' perception of the probability that
they would suffer a work related injury or illness and they also expressed
greater concern about taking risks at work after receiving first aid
training. It therefore appears that first aid training enhanced
participants' motivation to avoid occupational injuries and illnesses.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 263-273
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: First Aid Training, Occupational Health And Safety, Risk Awareness, Risk Control, Motivation, Construc, Tion, Small Business,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110117617
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110117617
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:263-273
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Graham Ive
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Ive
Title: Rethinking the multi-attribute utility approach based procurement route selection technique
Abstract:
The multi-attribute utility approach (MAUA) provides a possibility of
transforming subjective perception or evaluation into objective decision
principles. However, as applied to procurement system selection, the
advice derived from this approach can be problematical, if the nature of
the procurement systems has not been examined carefully. The major
weaknesses of the MAUA as applied in this field lie in its selection of
priority variables and in some association of procurement routes with
priority variables. This paper uses a transac2 tion cost perspective, in a
setting of incomplete contracting, to develop these comments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 275-284
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Multi-ATTRIBUTE Utility Approach, Procurement Route, Incomplete Contracting, Transaction Costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190110117608
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190110117608
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:275-284
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Duc Thanh Luu
Author-X-Name-First: Duc Thanh
Author-X-Name-Last: Luu
Author-Name: Swee Eng Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Swee Eng
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Ka Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Title: Fuzzy membership functions of procurement selection criteria
Abstract:
Many researchers have advocated the development and application of a
systematic approach to the selection of procurement processes. Different
procurement selection models aimed at improving the decision making
process have been proposed. These models generally fail to address the
fuzziness of selection criteria used for procurement selection. The aim of
this paper is to establish the fuzzy membership function of procurement
selection criteria through an empirical study conducted in Australia.
Seven procurement selection criteria were considered fuzzy in nature. They
are speed, complexity, flexibility, responsibility, quality level, risk
allocation, and price competition. The fuzzy membership functions for each
of these seven fuzzy procurement selection criteria were derived through a
modified horizontal approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 285-296
Issue: 3
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Procurement, Selection Criteria, Fuzzy Membership Function,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210121288
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210121288
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:3:p:285-296
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I. M. Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: I. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Author-Name: M. Puterman
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Puterman
Author-Name: E. Gilboa
Author-X-Name-First: E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gilboa
Title: Deterioration patterns of building cladding components for maintenance management
Abstract:
Increasing demands are made on maintenance programmes to provide tools
that will support maintenance planning. Among of the most important
parameters affecting the efficiency of maintenance management are the
precision and the reliability of the predicted service life (PSL) of
building components. The main objective of this study was to develop a
methodology for the establishment of databases listing deterioration
patterns of building components based upon their actual condition. The
methodology consists of four steps: (1) identification of failure
patterns, (2) determination of the component performance (CP), (3)
determination of the life expectancy of deterioration path (LEDP) and (4)
evaluation of the predicted service life (PSL). The proposed methodology
can be used for planning of maintenance activities, for evaluation of
economic implications caused by intensive decay and for maintenance
management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-314
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Maintenance Management, Deterioration, Predicted Service Life, Exterior Cladding, Performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210125563
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210125563
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:305-314
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sevda Koraltan
Author-X-Name-First: Sevda
Author-X-Name-Last: Koraltan
Author-Name: Attila Dikbas
Author-X-Name-First: Attila
Author-X-Name-Last: Dikbas
Title: An assessment of the applicability of partnering in the Turkish construction sector
Abstract:
There are problems associated with the Turkish construction sector; some
of these problems are implications of Government policy, restrictions
imposed on public construction projects, bureaucratic procedures,
contractual clauses incorporating unfair risk sharing and inadequacies in
control mechanisms. Some problems can be attributed to inadequate
technological knowhow, and/or lack of education and training incen1 tives
in new technologies and management approaches. This paper presents
findings from research that was aimed at investigating the applicability
of partnering in the Turkish construction sector as an alternative
approach in seeking solutions to some of the problems within this
industry. The findings suggest that the partnering approach could help
reduce some of the problems associated with the Turkish construction
sector, although the implementation of this approach is likely to face
complications, mainly in terms of cultural change requirements and the
bureaucracies associated especially with the public construction process.
The findings also suggest that if partnering were to be considered for
Turkey, the private construction sector would offer more flexibility in
the implementation of this approach, rather than reliance on the
Government for the introduction of partnering into Turkey.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-321
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Partnering, Procurement, Construction Trends, Organizational Development, Turkey, Construction Sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210125554
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210125554
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:315-321
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammad Ammar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Ammar
Author-Name: Youssef Mohieldin
Author-X-Name-First: Youssef
Author-X-Name-Last: Mohieldin
Title: Resource constrained project scheduling using simulation
Abstract:
Resource allocation is one of the most important issues of construction
management. Two problems of resource allocation are of concern: resource
levelling and resource scheduling. Traditionally, the resource scheduling
problem is solved using either heuristic methods or optimization
techniques. When heuristic methods are used, resource scheduling is
treated as a subsequent problem for the CPM analysis. In this paper, the
resource scheduling problem is handled using simulation, where logic
dependence and resource availability limits are considered simultaneously
during the time scheduling process. Simulation is applied to the resource
scheduling problem at the project level. A simulation system called SIRBUS
is used to schedule construction projects under resource constraints.
Constant resource demand of activities is assumed, and the activity once
started cannot be interrupted. Six example projects previously solved by
different heuristic methods are re-solved using simulation. The results
are compared with the latest heuristic models: current float technique and
ranked positional weight method. In addition to the advantage that
resource availability is considered during time scheduling as a starting
point, which is an apparent feature of simulation, SIRBUS gives good
results compared with existing heuristic methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 323-330
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Management, Resource Management, Resource Scheduling, Simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210131098
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210131098
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:323-330
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Tay
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Tay
Author-Name: Neil Morgan
Author-X-Name-First: Neil
Author-X-Name-Last: Morgan
Title: Antecedents and consequences of market orientation in chartered surveying firms
Abstract:
This study tests marketing theory concerning market orientation in the
context of the chartered surveying industry. Using data collected in a
mail survey from 179 UK general practice chartered surveying firms, it is
found that firms with more risk tolerant senior managers and more
formalized and specialized marketing organization structures have higher
levels of market orientation. The data indicate also that market
orientation positively impacts firms' business and marketing performance,
and that this relationship is robust across different environments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 331-341
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Market Orientation, Management, Organization Structure, Business Performance, Surveying,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210123826
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210123826
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:331-341
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Ford
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Ford
Author-Name: Diane Lander
Author-X-Name-First: Diane
Author-X-Name-Last: Lander
Author-Name: John Voyer
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Voyer
Title: A real options approach to valuing strategic flexibility in uncertain construction projects
Abstract:
To maximize project value, managers of construction projects must
recognize, plan for and strategically manage uncertainty. Current
construction planning, estimating, and management practices regarding
uncertainty can undervalue projects by failing to exploit opportunities to
increase project value, as well as minimize risks. Dynamic uncertainties
are described as project conditions that cannot be resolved adequately
through improved description or planning for pre-project strategy
selection. A real options approach is proposed for proactively using
strategic flexibility to recognize and capture project values hidden in
dynamic uncertainties. An example of a proposal for a toll road project
demonstrates a method of valuing managerial flexibility to evaluate and
select strategies. Impacts of real options in other domains, along with
this example, are the basis for concluding that using a structured real
options approach in construction management can increase returns through
improved project planning and management. Potential impacts of the use of
real options are discussed, and challenges in valuing real options in
construction projects are identified as the basis for future research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 343-351
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Project Planning, Strategy, Risk Management, Real Options, Project Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210125572
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210125572
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:343-351
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Pirasak Sikangwan
Author-X-Name-First: Pirasak
Author-X-Name-Last: Sikangwan
Author-Name: Onur Tokdemir
Author-X-Name-First: Onur
Author-X-Name-Last: Tokdemir
Title: Scheduling system for high rise building construction
Abstract:
A computerized system to schedule high-rise building construction has
been developed using line-of-balance technology assisted by an expert
system. A review of the recent literature on the techniques available for
scheduling and controlling construction projects of a repetitive nature
shows that Gantt charts are inadequate, and that there are serious
problems with using network methods in such circumstances. There is
evidence that the construction of high rise buildings has a decidedly
repetitive nature but differs in some respects from other repetitive
projects such as pipelines or pavement construction. Two new concepts have
been introduced into line-of-balance methodology to accommodate the
special conditions encountered in high rise building construction. These
two concepts, namely 'flexible' unit networks and 'multi-level' LOB
diagrams have been coded into a scheduling module ('Lobplans'). A series
of databases have been compiled regarding the productivity of resources.
An expert system module (Lobex) has been developed to facilitate
decision-making at network generation level. The scheduling module, the
databases, and the expert system have been organized into an integrated
system (Chriss) by means of communication and command routines that
interface between the modules and the user input. A 16-storey building
project has been used in testing Chriss' performance. The integrated
system proved to be user friendly and reliable.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 353-364
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Linear Scheduling Methods, Line-OF-BALANCE, Networks, High Rise Building Construction, Expert Systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210131647
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:353-364
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Prapatpaow Awakul
Author-X-Name-First: Prapatpaow
Author-X-Name-Last: Awakul
Author-Name: Stephen Ogunlana
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogunlana
Title: The effect of attitudinal differences on interface conflicts in large scale construction projects: a case study
Abstract:
Conflicts encountered in large scale construction projects occur in two
categories: internal conflicts and interface conflicts. Internal conflicts
are experienced among the project participants, whereas interface
conflicts are between the construction project and groups outside the
project. Many large scale construction projects often experience interface
conflicts in the form of conflicting requirements from different social
groups. This paper examines the attitudes of five groups of respondents on
the factors leading to the interface conflicts experienced on the Yadana
Natural Gas Pipeline Project (YNGPP) in Thailand as a case study. The
study was conducted through questionnaire surveys of the five groups: the
group affected by the project; the project participants; non-government
organizations (NGOs) and interested organizations; academics and experts;
and local government officials. The results show that these five groups
have differences in attitudes towards the factors leading to the interface
conflicts encountered on the project; and it is the differences in
attitudes that generated the conflicts. The key variables were grouped
into main categories and the degree of importance of each key factor
leading to the interface conflicts was identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 365-377
Issue: 4
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Conflict, Attitudinal Differences, Project Management, Large Projects, Factor Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210133456
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210133456
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:4:p:365-377
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Li
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Qiping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Qiping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Supporting the decision-making process for sustainable housing
Abstract:
Wide acceptance of the concept of sustainable development has led to a
demand for policies on sustainable housing. The issues of how sustainable
housing can be measured or evaluated and how decision-making regarding
sustainable housing can be facilitated are areas that require further
research. This paper aims to introduce a conceptual approach in developing
a decision-support tool for sustainable housing. An empirical
decision-support model for sustainable housing indicators using fuzzy-set
theory (SHIFT) is described, with particular focus on framing
decision-making for multiple criteria or objectives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-390
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Sustainable Housing, Multicriteria Decision-MAKING,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210146812
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210146812
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:387-390
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Frank Schultmann
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Schultmann
Author-Name: Otto Rentz
Author-X-Name-First: Otto
Author-X-Name-Last: Rentz
Title: Scheduling of deconstruction projects under resource constraints
Abstract:
In many countries a large part of the building stock will have to be
maintained, renovated, rehabilitated or even removed in the next few
decades. Although profitability will be one of the major requirements to
be met when these works are carried out, there will be more and more
emphasis on the environmental requirements to be respected. To make the
modernization of the building stock more efficient, dismantling with the
aim of producing high quality recycling materials at reasonable costs is a
promising approach. This paper presents an integrated approach to
deconstruction site management that focuses on both economic and
environmental goals. As a first step, material flow management aims at the
closed-loop recycling of various construction materials. In a second step,
resource constrained project planning models are used to evaluate
strategies for optimized deconstruction site management. The approach
offers high flexibility and can be adapted readily to different
conditions. Results show that time and cost for deconstruction can be
reduced by more than 50%, together with recycling quotas of more than 90%.
Even when resources are strictly limited or when strong budget and time
restrictions have to be respected, tremendous improvements in
deconstruction site management can be achieved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 391-401
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Deconstruction, Optimization, Project Planning Models, Scheduling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210135913
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:391-401
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Edwi Fong
Author-X-Name-First: Edwi
Author-X-Name-Last: Fong
Title: Preparations for ISO 9001:2000 - a study of ISO 9000:1994 certified construction firms
Abstract:
Many research studies have been completed on the effectiveness of ISO
9000:1994 in the construction industry. The new ISO 9001:2000 requires
firms to have a completely different mindset about achieving quality. From
merely compliance with requirements, firms who intend to obtain ISO
9001:2000 certification have to understand fully the new requirements and
how they may 'fit' the new standards into their present quality management
systems, instead of changing their original work procedures to suit the
Standard's requirements. This study presents a survey of the preparation
work undertaken by construction firms in Singapore in moving from ISO
9000:1994 to ISO 9001:2000. From the research findings, it was found that
most firms are ready for the conversion to the new Standard with slight
beefing up of their existing quality management systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 403-413
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Quality, Construction Firms, Preparations, Transition,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210135922
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210135922
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:403-413
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Robert Glover
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Glover
Title: The divergence in aggregate and activity estimates of US construction productivity
Abstract:
Discrepancies exist between aggregate and activity productivity
measurements in the US construction industry. Multiple studies using
aggregate industry measures suggest that construction productivity has
declined over the long term. A longstanding problem with the aggregate
measures concerns the difficulty of controlling for inflation so as to
accurately measure real output. As an alternative, average activity
productivity, measured by individual work activities, indicates that
construction productivity has increased over the same time period.
Activity measurement data have been collected for 200 construction
activities over a 22-year time period from commercial estimation manuals
used by contractors and owners to estimate the cost and time requirements
for construction. This paper examines the discrepancies between aggregate
and activity measurements and suggests possible reasons for their
existence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 415-423
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Labour, Productivity, Trends, Construction Industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210145868
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210145868
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:415-423
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hong Xiao
Author-X-Name-First: Hong
Author-X-Name-Last: Xiao
Author-Name: David Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Title: The performance of contractors in Japan, the UK and the USA: a comparative evaluation of construction cost
Abstract:
Globalization of the world economy demands that performance comparisons
are undertaken at an international level. A new research protocol has been
developed for comparing contractor performance internationally by
combining the appropriate characteristics of two established approaches in
order to balance the requirements of comparability and representativeness.
This new approach is used to reveal some important international
performance characteristics among Japanese, UK and US contractors.
Building costs in the UK, when adjusted for exchange rate fluctuations,
are significantly higher than those in Japan and the USA. Furthermore,
cost certainty and client satisfaction are higher in Japan than in the UK,
but there is no significant difference between Japan and the USA.
Disparities in cost performance between the three countries are believed
to originate from differences in the relationships between contractors and
clients and also in the construction process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 425-435
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Cost, Contractor Performance, Analysis Of Variance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210145859
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210145859
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:425-435
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerhard Kreitl
Author-X-Name-First: Gerhard
Author-X-Name-Last: Kreitl
Author-Name: Gerhard Urschitz
Author-X-Name-First: Gerhard
Author-X-Name-Last: Urschitz
Author-Name: Wolfgang Oberndorfer
Author-X-Name-First: Wolfgang
Author-X-Name-Last: Oberndorfer
Title: Corporate growth of engineering consulting firms: a European review
Abstract:
Corporate growth is understandably one of the hottest topics among
researchers in management and managers themselves. Nonetheless, research
in the sector of professional service firms, especially engineering
consulting firms, has not yet led to a deeper understanding of how growth
in this particular sector is achieved. This descriptive empirical study
tries to provide some answers by reviewing the endeavours of the largest
engineering consulting firms in Europe (top 100) within the timeframe
1990-1998. The findings suggest that the firms surveyed grew on average
about 120% in terms of staff increase and about 170% in terms of revenue
increase. This growth was largely achieved organically: growth through
mergers and acquisitions (M&A) also contributed quite strongly whereas
engaging in joint ventures played only a minor role. The same pattern
emerged when analyzing the success of the different modes of growth, with
organic growth being the most successful, followed by growth through M&As
and joint ventures. Further, it could be shown that the firms' growth was
strongly influenced by a focus on firm size, followed by a focus on market
share and on profit, while focus on the firm's value was less significant.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 437-448
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Corporate Growth, Engineering Consulting Firm, Europe,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210139487
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210139487
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:437-448
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Margaret Whittock
Author-X-Name-First: Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Whittock
Title: Women's experiences of non-traditional employment: is gender equality in this area a possibility?
Abstract:
Currently, skills shortages are prompting the UK government to introduce
initiatives intended to break down notions of stereotyped employment and
attract women to non-traditional, male-dominated industries such as
construction. Thus, it seems timely to revisit a study of the lived
experience of non-traditionally employed women, conducted in Northern
Ireland in the mid-1990s. Data from this study are presented here,
specifically contextualized within R. M. Kanter's (American Journal of
Sociology, 82, 965-90) framework of tokenism. Utilizing this framework,
the paper examines the relationship that exists between the sexes (women
as 'tokens' and males as 'dominants') in the non-traditional settings
examined, indicating that barriers remain that women must surmount for
gender equality to be achieved. The paper concludes by briefly examining
one initiative working pro-actively to remove these barriers, providing
women with greater opportunities to pursue non-traditional careers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 449-456
Issue: 5
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Women, Non-TRADITIONAL Employment, Tokenism, Lived Experience, Stereotyping,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210140197
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210140197
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:5:p:449-456
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Margaret Emsley
Author-X-Name-First: Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Emsley
Author-Name: David Lowe
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Lowe
Author-Name: A. Roy Duff
Author-X-Name-First: A. Roy
Author-X-Name-Last: Duff
Author-Name: Anthony Harding
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Harding
Author-Name: Adam Hickson
Author-X-Name-First: Adam
Author-X-Name-Last: Hickson
Title: Data modelling and the application of a neural network approach to the prediction of total construction costs
Abstract:
Neural network cost models have been developed using data collected from
nearly 300 building projects. Data were collected from predominantly
primary sources using real-life data contained in project files, with some
data obtained from the Building Cost Information Service, supplemented
with further information, and some from a questionnaire distributed
nationwide. The data collected included final account sums and, so that
the model could evaluate the total cost to the client, clients' external
and internal costs, in addition to construction costs. Models based on
linear regression techniques have been used as a benchmark for evaluation
of the neural network models. The results showed that the major benefit of
the neural network approach was the ability of neural networks to model
the nonlinearity in the data. The 'best' model obtained so far gives a
mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 16.6%, which includes a
percentage (unknown) for client changes. This compares favourably with
traditional estimating where values of MAPE between 20.8% and 27.9% have
been reported. However, it is anticipated that further analyses will
result in the development of even more reliable models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 465-472
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Cost Modelling, Neural Networks, Linear Regression Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210151050
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210151050
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:465-472
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Ngai
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ngai
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: H. P. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: H. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: A theoretical framework for determining the minimum number of bidders in construction bidding competitions
Abstract:
A theoretical framework is proposed for determining the minimum number of
bidders in competition for projects in the construction industry. This is
based on the neo-classical micro-economic theory for price determination
in construction and the assumption of random contractor-selection.
Empirical analysis of the Hong Kong data set not only illustrates the
applicability of the framework, but also supports the relevance of the
microeconomic model for construction price determination. The main
implication for clients is that, in order to obtain the most competitive
bids for projects in the most cost-efficient way, they should vary the
minimum number of bidders in competition according to market conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 473-482
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Price Determination, Tendering Theory, Construction Economics, Number Of Bidders,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210151041
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210151041
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:473-482
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jonathan Jingsheng Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan Jingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Title: Three methods for verifying and validating the simulation of a construction operation
Abstract:
A simulation model must be verified to confirm that it describes
correctly its intended real world process under study; moreover, the
simulation results obtained must be a valid representation of the process.
This study presents three activity-based white-box methods for assisting a
user in verifying and validating construction simulations. The first
method reports a simulation by listing all activities in the chronological
order of their executions, so that a user can contrast the simulated
progress against the actual progress in the real world. The second method
summarizes the operating counts and mean durations of all activities over
the simulated time period, to enable a user to evaluate whether all
activities have been executed correctly during simulation. The third
method generates an activity cycle report for any selected resource
entity, so that a user can examine whether the entity is moving in the
correct logical and chronological order during simulation. The three
methods can be used jointly to debug a simulation model, so as to confirm
that the simulation is correctly conducted and the obtained results are
valid. The three methods are implemented in a simulation system in the
form of corresponding reports. A concreting process is employed to
illustrate these methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-491
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Computer Simulation, Simulation Modelling, Validation, Verification, Construction Planning, Simulation Of Construction Operations, Construction Process,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210151032
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210151032
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:483-491
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. S. Goulding
Author-X-Name-First: J. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Goulding
Author-Name: M. Alshawi
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Alshawi
Title: Generic and specific IT training: a process protocol model for construction
Abstract:
This paper considers the generic processes involved in structuring an
information technology (IT) training strategy to meet a construction
organization's business strategy. It identifies and discusses how generic
and specific IT training needs can be affected by the availability and
priority of resources, type of organizational infrastructure, degree of
management commitment, and prevailing level of culture. It goes on to
discuss the principles of the capability maturity model (CMM), developed
at Carnegie Mellon University, and the concepts of the process protocol
(PP), developed by Salford University. It builds upon these approaches to
analyse the key sequential stages and links needed to satisfy (or close)
the 'performance gap' between the business strategy and the IT training
strategy. An IT training model is presented the remit of which can help
managers assess the impact of IT training on their organization's business
strategy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 493-505
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Business Strategy, Information Technology, Process Modelling, Training,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210151069
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210151069
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:493-505
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Anna Sublet
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Sublet
Title: The impact of job and organizational demands on marital or relationship satisfaction and conflict among Australian civil engineers
Abstract:
The results of a survey of professional civil engineers working in the
Australian construction industry are reported (n = 182). The survey
examined the effect of a range of job and organizational demands on the
marital or relationship satisfaction of respondents. The effect of
demographic characteristics was also examined. The results of correlation
and regression analyses provide support for linkages between demographic
characteristics, job or organizational sources of work-related stress and
marital/relationship satisfaction and conflict. Different variables were
significantly correlated with three dimensions of relationship quality.
The results suggest that the single most important factor in determining
civil engineers' experiences of relationship quality is the number of
hours they work each week. It is argued that the implementation of
work-life balance initiatives by engineering organizations may benefit
employees. However, for such initiatives to be successful, engineering
organizations and their employees must deviate from the socially
constructed norm of rigid, long work hours that prevails in the Australian
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-521
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction, Job Demands, Relationship Satisfaction, Relationship Conflict, Work-LIFE Balance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210156073
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210156073
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:507-521
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Swee-Lean Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Swee-Lean
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Responses of selected economic indicators to construction output shocks: the case of Singapore
Abstract:
The volume of construction output fluctuates in response to changes in
demand and supply conditions. Due to the multiple linkages that the
construction industry has with other economic sectors and the entire
economy, the output shock is propagated through the economic system and
reflected in several economic indicators, such as the outputs of other
sectors, balance of payments and general prices. A study is reported on
the short-term responses of some economic indicators in Singapore
following a shock in the construction output, using the Granger causality
approach, the impulse response function and variance decomposition
analysis. Construction output shock had significant impact on the outputs
of the commerce sector and 'other services'. The heavy reliance of the
Singapore construction industry on imported inputs has a direct impact on
the balance of payments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 523-533
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Output Shock, Responses, Balance Of Payments, Sectoral Outputs, Prices,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210156091
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210156091
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:523-533
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Marzouk
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Marzouk
Author-Name: Osama Moselhi
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Moselhi
Title: Simulation optimization for earthmoving operations using genetic algorithms
Abstract:
This paper presents a methodology for simulation optimization utilizing
genetic algorithms and applies it to a newly developed simulation-based
system for estimating the time and cost of earthmoving operations. The
genetic algorithm searches for a near-optimum fleet configuration that
reduces project total cost, and considers a set of qualitative and
quantitative variables that influence earthmoving operations. Qualitative
variables represent the models of equipment used in each fleet scenario,
whereas quantitative variables represent the number of items of equipment
involved in each scenario. Pilot simulation runs were carried out for all
configurations generated by the developed algorithm, and a complete
simulation analysis was then performed for the fleet recommended by the
algorithm. The numerical example demonstrates the use of the proposed
methodology and illustrates its essential features.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-543
Issue: 6
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Genetic Algorithms, Simulation Optimization, Earthmoving, Equipment Selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210156064
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210156064
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:6:p:535-543
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Les Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Les
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Title: Measuring the global construction industry: improving the quality of data
Abstract:
In the context of a truly global market for construction, an
international strategy is required to ensure that national and
international statistical systems are able to provide accurate and valid
information. In many parts of the world the collection of reliable
national information on construction activity is not an easy task, and the
measurement of comparable, cross-national data can be problematic. This
paper considers possible strategies for the improvement of data collection
systems in the context of user needs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-556
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Activity, International Comparability, Statistical Systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210159908
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210159908
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:553-556
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sai-On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai-On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Henry Suen
Author-X-Name-First: Henry
Author-X-Name-Last: Suen
Title: A multi-attribute utility model for dispute resolution strategy selection
Abstract:
Disputes are inevitable in construction projects. Skills in dispute
resolution should be part of the toolkit of any practitioner in a
managerial position. Dispute resolution procedures such as litigation,
arbitration, mediation, dispute adviser and negotiation are widely
practised. However, frequently the question is how to systematically
determine which dispute resolution strategy to adopt given the nature of
disputes. Even though the topic of dispute resolution has been widely
discussed and heavily researched, few studies have been conducted with
respect to this question. A decision-making model has been developed using
the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and multi-attribute utility
technique (MAUT). The model comprises four parts: selection criteria,
dispute resolution strategies, collection of utility factors and selection
criteria weightings. These were developed from empirical data collected
through an interview survey with selected experts in the field. The model
is designed to identify in a systematic manner an appropriate dispute
resolution strategy for a given dispute, rather than relying on subjective
decisions. The model is tested using a hypothetical scenario in which
three case studies are evaluated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 557-568
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Dispute Resolution Strategies, Selection Criteria, Analytical Hierarchy Process, Multi-ATTRIBUTE Utility Technique, Selection Model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210157568
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:557-568
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Franco Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Franco
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Judy Leung Fung Kuen
Author-X-Name-First: Judy Leung Fung
Author-X-Name-Last: Kuen
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Multi-criteria evaluation model for the selection of architectural consultants
Abstract:
The selection of a competent architect is vital to the success of a
development. Like in many developed countries, developers in Hong Kong
select architects based on a set of criteria. Price is not the only
consideration in the process, and decisions rely heavily on subjective
judgement. By conducting a questionnaire survey, the research reported
here identified the common criteria for selection and their relative
importance for an objective selection. This involved the use of an
evaluation method called the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Survey
data from projects with similar characteristics were used to compute the
criteria weights. Multi-criteria models for seven out of 27 categories of
project were built with reference to the computed weights derived from the
survey. In addition, a computer program, called the Architectural
Consultant Selection System (ACSS), was designed to illustrate a logical
approach for the evaluation of prospective consultant architects based on
the models constructed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-580
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Selection Criteria, Analytical Hierarchy Process, Consultant Architect,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210159818
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210159818
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:569-580
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Author-Name: Frank Harris
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Harris
Title: Predicting downtime costs of tracked hydraulic excavators operating in the UK opencast mining industry
Abstract:
This paper describes the development of a model to predict the hourly
cost of downtime (using regression equations) for tracked hydraulic
excavators operating in the UK opencast mining industry. A three-stage
process was utilized for the model's development. The first stage
predicted machine cycle times, the second predicted hire costs per hour
and the third used the outputs of the first two to forecast the cost of
breakdown. Both cycle time and hire cost models were revealed to be good
predictors, as exhibited by the 'high' R2 values of 0.86 and 0.95,
respectively. A plant expert employed within the Defence Logistics
Organisation, UK Ministry of Defence, validated these regression models
and the process by which downtime costs were predicted. Future research
work will aim to enhance the predictive ability of the models developed,
expand the research to cover other machine types, and reproduce the
findings in graphical and tabular format to improve the interpretation of
information generated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-591
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction Plant, Machine Cycle Time, Productivity, Downtime Cost, Regression Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210163552
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:581-591
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Willie Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Willie
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Construction and economic development in selected LDCs: past, present and future
Abstract:
This paper critically examines the changing relations between
construction and economic development in selected less developed countries
(LDCs) in the light of new development dynamics. Historically, the
relationship was seen in Keynesian terms. By the 1980s, attention turned
towards structuralist and political economy explanations amid a
neoclassical revival towards structural adjustments and 'market friendly'
reforms. Current explanations tend to focus on property rights and
building institutional capabilities. The strengths and weaknesses of
current explanations provide future directions for research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 593-599
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction And Economic Development, Structure, Political Economy, Institutions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210159827
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210159827
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:593-599
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Hon Guo Shan
Author-X-Name-First: Hon Guo
Author-X-Name-Last: Shan
Title: The factors influencing bid mark-up decisions of large- and medium-size contractors in Singapore
Abstract:
The construction industry in Singapore is dominated by a competitive
business environment that is being driven by a lowest cost mentality. The
pressure on contractors' profit margins has further increased after a
prolonged recession in this sector, which has seen construction demand and
output shrinking significantly. This paper examines the factors that
contractors perceive to be important when they are considering the size of
their bid mark-up. The research hypothesis is that contractor size would
have a significant bearing on the factors that would influence the bid
mark-up decision. Forty factors were identified and a survey was
conducted. The results showed that contractor size has a significant
impact on their attitude towards bid mark-up decision-making. The analysis
also showed that when deciding the size of a bid mark-up large contractors
tend to be more concerned with the nature of the construction work while
medium-size contractors are more concerned about the state of their own
companies finance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 601-610
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Mark-UP, Tendering, Singapore, Contractor Size, Procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210159890
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210159890
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:601-610
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: L. Y. Shen
Author-X-Name-First: L. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Patrick Zou
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Zou
Title: Developing an optimal bidding strategy in two-envelope fee bidding
Abstract:
Two-envelope fee bidding is used frequently in allocating commissions to
willing consultants such as architects, engineers and surveyors.
Consultant fees and technical scores are normally aggregated to form a
total score. The consultant obtaining the highest total score is usually
awarded the commission. The consultant's objective is to get the highest
total score possible because this maximizes the chance of winning.
Consultants can submit to the procurer any of a number of different
technical proposals which is then converted to a technical score. Only one
technical score+fee combination will result in the highest total score,
i.e. the optimum technical score+fee combination. This paper offers
consultants an approach to better identify their optimum technical
score+fee combination. In using this approach consultants need to develop
a total score continuum based on (1) the consultant's original technical
proposal and fee, (2) the absolute lowest fee and corresponding technical
score, and (3) the absolute highest technical score and corresponding fee.
The total score becomes the dependent variable and the fee the independent
variable. Since the total score continuum is regressed on three points it
will almost certainly be curvilinear in shape. Given that the optimum
total score is at the highest point of the continuum, the optimum fee can
be determined through differentiation. The corresponding technical score
can then be found. After adjusting the original technical proposal to
reflect the corresponding technical score, the optimum fee and adjusted
technical proposal can then be submitted to the procurer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-620
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Bidding, Consultant, Fee, Strategy, Technical Score, Tendering, Two-ENVELOPE,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210160843
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210160843
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:611-620
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna Dubois
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Dubois
Author-Name: Lars-Erik Gadde
Author-X-Name-First: Lars-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Gadde
Title: The construction industry as a loosely coupled system: implications for productivity and innovation
Abstract:
Previous research suggests that the construction industry is
characterized by (1) particular complexity factors owing to industry
specific uncertainties and interdependences, and (2) inefficiency of
operations. The aim of this study was to analyse the operations and
behaviour of firms as a means of dealing with complexity. The observations
made indicate that the industry as a whole is featured as a loosely
coupled system. Taking this as a starting point, the couplings among
activities, resources and actors were analysed in different dimensions.
The pattern of couplings builds on two interdependent layers: tight
couplings in individual projects and loose couplings based on collective
adaptations in the permanent network. It is concluded that the pattern of
couplings seems to favour short term productivity while hampering
innovation and learning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 621-631
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Construction, Loosely Coupled System, Productivity, Innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210163543
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190210163543
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:621-631
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bart Bossink
Author-X-Name-First: Bart
Author-X-Name-Last: Bossink
Title: A Dutch public-private strategy for innovation in sustainable construction
Abstract:
Influenced by the sustainable construction policy of the authorities,
organizations in The Netherlands are developing, designing and building
sustainable areas and objects. The actions of the authorities,
authority-related organizations and commercial organizations in the Dutch
construction industry and the interaction between them contribute to the
realization of goals that fit with the sustainability policy of the
government. Research in the house building sector of the Dutch
construction industry, covering a 10-year period, has found that action by
and interaction between public and private organizations directed towards
innovation in sustainable construction is part of a sector-wide strategy.
In this strategy public and private organizations interactively develop
and adopt sustainable construction innovations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 633-642
Issue: 7
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
Keywords: Sustainable Construction, Sustainability Policy, Innovation Management, Strategic Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210163534
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:7:p:633-642
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tan Sui Ling Gracia
Author-X-Name-First: Tan Sui Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Gracia
Title: Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-3
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065063
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000065063
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:1:p:1-3
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tan Sui Ling Gracia
Author-X-Name-First: Tan Sui Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Gracia
Title: Authors' Charter
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-5
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065072
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000065072
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:1:p:5-5
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Author-Name: Laurence Marsh
Author-X-Name-First: Laurence
Author-X-Name-Last: Marsh
Author-Name: Graham Cockerham
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Cockerham
Title: Assessing the capability of construction processes to realize building designs
Abstract:
The capability of processes should be assessed during their development.
If assessment reveals that a process is not capable of meeting design
requirements, that process should be improved until reassessment indicates
that it is capable. This proactive approach can radically reduce
non-conformances. Existing methods of assessment depend upon the sampling
of process data. Such methods are well-established and well-documented.
They provide the foundation for statistical process control (SPC) and can
be applied to most processes including those used in the construction of
buildings. However, there are several reasons why sampling data to assess
construction process capability can be extremely difficult. In this paper,
the limitations of existing assessment methods are outlined. Then, a new
assessment method is introduced and results from a preliminary field study
are reported. Next, the key features of the new method are discussed. In
conclusion, guidelines for its successful introduction are provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 7-10
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Process Capability, Building Design Requirements,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619021000026167
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Analysis of value and project goal specificity in value management
Abstract:
Value is a subjective term and is manifested in different ways such as
attitude, belief, desire, preference, need and criteria. In this paper, a
cognitive value management model for construction procurement is developed
to examine how value is influenced by previous project outcomes and other
environmental dynamics that affect project goal setting and conflict
resolution in the value management process. The relationships among the
variables of value specificity, goal specificity, conflict resolution and
participant satisfaction are investigated in a behavioural model of value
management. It is postulated that value-goal specificity and conflict
resolution (integration) level in the value management process have a
direct impact on satisfaction of project participants. The findings in a
questionnaire survey indicate that more specific value and goal and higher
conflict resolution (integration) level in the goal setting process can
improve the participants' satisfaction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 11-19
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Value Management, Project Goal Specificity, Conflict Resolution, Satisfaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065081
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000065081
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jakrapong Pongpeng
Author-X-Name-First: Jakrapong
Author-X-Name-Last: Pongpeng
Author-Name: John Liston
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Liston
Title: TenSeM: a multicriteria and multidecision-makers' model in tender evaluation
Abstract:
In tender evaluation, there appears to be a lack of a realistic working
models capable of simultaneously (1) compiling multiple decision-makers'
inputs, (2) incorporating risk and uncertainty, and (3) offering computer
interaction that makes a model flexible to any change in situation. Thus,
the research has developed a more realistic working model including the
necessary capabilities mentioned. The vital theory behind the model was a
combination of a utility function and a social welfare function. The model
was divided into two main steps (step1: evaluating contractor ability and
step2: evaluating tenders) consisting of three main processes: (1) the
contractor ability criteria selection process; (2) the contractor ability
criteria balancing/measuring process; and (3) bid price and contractor
ability balancing/measuring process. The model incorporated computer
interaction in which Microsoft Excel performed calculation tasks while
Visual Basic for Application (VBA) was coded for user interaction. To
obtain a realistic working product, the model was tested for user
friendliness, verification, sensitivity analysis, and validation. The test
has shown that the multicriteria and multidecision-makers' model, TenSeM,
is a rational and realistic approach in solving a tender evaluation
problem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-30
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Multicriteria, Multidecision-makers, Interactive Model, Tender Evaluation, Social Welfare Function,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065090
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: H. Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Title: Fuzzy decision-making for dynamic resource allocation
Abstract:
For construction activities, timely resource allocation is crucial to
avoid unnecessary waiting time of resources and delay of activities,
especially under the condition of limited supply of resources. Timely
resource allocation, i.e. determination of an activity that has the
highest priority to obtain resources at that instant, is a dynamic
decision-making process dependent on real-time information during a
construction process. With the consideration of operational and stochastic
characteristics of construction operations and the fuzziness of
multiple-decision objectives for an appropriate allocation policy (due to
imprecision or subjectivity in decision criteria), a fuzzy dynamic
resource allocation (FDRA) based on the fuzzy decision-making approach is
developed. In order to model the timely resource allocation decisions, the
FDRA is built into a discreteevent simulation system with an activity
scanning strategy. The benefit of FDRA on construction productivity is
analysed through simulation experimentation by which comparisons among
different allocation policies are made.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 31-41
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Resource Allocation, Dynamic Decision-making, Simulation, Fuzzy Sets,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065108
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ho Man-Fong Christabel
Author-X-Name-First: Ho Man-Fong
Author-X-Name-Last: Christabel
Author-Name: Ng Chi-Wai Vincent
Author-X-Name-First: Ng Chi-Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Vincent
Title: Quantity surveyors' background and training, and their ethical concepts, conceptions and interests considerations
Abstract:
In this paper, general and specific hypotheses concerning quantity
surveyors' ethical perceptions as well as their personal background and
professional training are derived from previous research studies (Fan et
al., 2001a, 2001b). More rigorous statistical tests, such as Multivariate
ANalysis Of VAriance (MANOVA) and Hierarchical Regression Analysis (HRA),
are used to test these hypotheses and thus verify findings of the previous
research. Salient discrepancies in ethical perceptions of professional
quantity surveyors are found to exist among professional quantity
surveyors of different ages, membership levels and work experience. In
predicting ethical perceptions, it is confirmed that the more experienced
and the higher the education level of quantity surveyors, the more
optimistic they are concerning recent declines in ethical standards. This
group of quantity surveyors (QS) is more willing to sacrifice its
self-interest when facing ethical dilemmas. However, results of this study
show also that 'background' variables are indeed moderating each other,
which are contingent upon the specific ethical perceptions concerned. As a
first step for the development of a knowledge base for future professional
training and socialization, findings of this study suggest two directions
for further research study. Firstly, a case study approach would elicit
decisions made in the face of ethical dilemmas. Secondly, extensive
surveys in reconciling professional service quality with the expectations
of clients and the general public will further enrich the field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 43-67
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Professional Ethics, Socialization, Ethical Training,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065117
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: The impact of individual and job characteristics on 'burnout' among civil engineers in Australia and the implications for employee turnover
Abstract:
A survey was undertaken to explore the experience of 'burnout' among
engineers working in the Australian construction industry. The most widely
recognized model of burnout, comprising emotional exhaustion, cynicism and
a diminished sense of personal accomplishment was found to be valid.
However, Australian engineers experience a strong sense of the social
worth of their professional activity, independently of believing in their
own individual competence as engineers. There was also a widespread belief
that the rewards enjoyed by engineers as a result of their professional
endeavours are not commensurate with their level of skill and
responsibility. The results of the study also show that burnout cannot be
attributed to a single cause but occurs as a result of a complex
interaction of individual characteristics and issues in the work
environment. As such, there is no single 'cure' for burnout and multiple
intervention strategies are probably needed. However, the relative
importance of job characteristics compared to personality characteristics
in predicting burnout suggests that job re-design may be an effective
preventive strategy. Cynicism and emotional exhaustion were strong
predictors of engineers' intention to leave their jobs. This suggests that
measures to prevent burnout could also help to reduce turnover and its
associated costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 69-80
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Burnout, Civil Engineering, Construction, Job Demands, Turnover,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065126
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Javier Cuervo
Author-X-Name-First: Javier
Author-X-Name-Last: Cuervo
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Ownership advantages/disadvantages of Singapore transnational construction corporations
Abstract:
Expanding beyond Singapore's boundaries has been a source of increased
business for Singapore transnational construction corporations (STCCs).
This paper analyses the significance of ownership advantage and
disadvantage factors of STCCs in pursuing their international construction
business, relative to other ASEAN contractors and contractors from
developed countries. Moreover, this study examines if these ownership
factors do vary significantly according to firm specific contextual
variables in the STCCs such as size, international age, multinationality
and extent of specialization/diversification. Based on responses from 22
STCCs, this study has found that the most important ownership advantage
factors of STCCs were identified as coming from: (1) information,
knowledge, technology and R&D capability; (2) the firm's name and
reputation; and (3) management and organizational capability. Relative to
established international contractors STCCs have a significant size
disadvantage with reference to certain project types.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 81-94
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Ownership Advantages And Disadvantages, Singapore Transnational Construction Corporation, International Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065135
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Book Reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 95-97
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000065144
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000065144
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:1:p:95-97
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Forthcoming events
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 99-100
Issue: 1
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/713763900
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:1:p:99-100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Margaret Whittock
Author-X-Name-First: Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Whittock
Title: Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 101-102
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/713763921
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/713763921
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:101-102
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Danny Myers
Author-X-Name-First: Danny
Author-X-Name-Last: Myers
Title: The future of construction economics as an academic discipline
Abstract:
The contribution made by economic theory when studying
construction-related subjects has a muddled history. This theme was
carefully reviewed in Ofori (1994) where he bluntly concluded that:
'Construction economics cannot be regarded as a bona-fide subject' (p.
304). This short note takes a retrospective look at George Ofori's paper
and suggests that during the subsequent period little has changed. This is
despite the publication of government reports that stressed the importance
of creating a culture of economic efficiency within construction and the
need for the industry to become sustainable. This paper is informed by a
brief survey of what is currently taught at British universities under the
title of construction economics. Two points for debate emerge. The first
is the worrying observation about the present state of play, as it seems
that construction economics continues to lack any coherent conceptual
structure. The second is the more promising suggestion that in the
foreseeable future the sustainability agenda could provide the impetus
necessary for construction economists to agree a common purpose and
conceptual approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 103-106
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Economics, University Education, Economic Theory, Sustainable Construction, Academic Consensus,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056117
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:103-106
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Picken
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Picken
Author-Name: Ben Ilozor
Author-X-Name-First: Ben
Author-X-Name-Last: Ilozor
Title: Height and construction costs of buildings in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The majority of buildings in Hong Kong come into the multi-storey
category. The conventional wisdom of construction economics suggests that
the cost of construction per square metre increases as buildings become
higher. This paper summarizes earlier research on the subject and adopts a
descriptive approach to present investigations into the cost-height
relationship of buildings constructed in Hong Kong. Initial findings seem
to suggest a different situation in Hong Kong - arguably the epitome of a
'tall' built environment. Possibly, there are factors concerning the
design economics of tall buildings that are specific to those urban
locations where they are more common. This point would suggest that a
different set of criteria should be applied in the judgement of how height
affects cost depending on the context and commonality of tall buildings in
the location under consideration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 107-111
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Building, Height-cost, Economics, Location,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079671
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:107-111
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Preparing Singapore's construction industry for the knowledge-based economy: practices, procedures and performance
Abstract:
Many post-industrial economies are deemed to have entered a stage where
knowledge and innovation are the main determinants of corporate
competitiveness and national growth and development. This 'knowledge-based
economy' has implications for all business activities. Singapore has
prepared inter-related concept plans to guide its socio-economic
development in the new age. What challenges does the knowledge-based
economy pose to the construction industry? How can Singapore develop its
construction industry to meet these demands? This paper begins by
discussing the features of the knowledge-based economy. It outlines
Singapore's strategies for developing a knowledge-based economy, and
measures being taken to prepare the construction industry for such an
economy, focusing on improvement in practices, integration of the
construction process and export of services. It is suggested that other
aspects require attention, including corporate development, business
networks and procurement arrangements, and that the industry should be
more involved in the implementation of these initiatives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-125
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Knowledge-based Economy, Construction 21, Construction Practices, Integration, Globalization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079680
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:113-125
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Hoe Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu Hoe
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Stephen Ogunlana
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogunlana
Title: Modelling the dynamic performance of a construction organization
Abstract:
The Asian financial crisis has adversely affected many of the domestic
construction organizations in Malaysia, bringing some organizations to the
brink of insolvency. It demonstrates that a construction organization's
performance is sensitive to the prevailing economic conditions. This paper
seeks to model the dynamic performance of a publicly listed construction
organization in Malaysia. First, a diagrammatic model consisting of two
interconnected causal loop diagrams is developed to represent the
organization's capacity and its financial balance sheet. The diagrams
provide a clearer understanding of the interactions between the country's
construction market and the organization's financial, technical and
managerial capabilities. Next, the causal loop diagrams are converted into
a mathematical model using specialized software. Simulation results from
the model are validated against historical time series data. Graphical
plots of the simulation model and results from sensitivity analysis
indicate that the model is capable of replicating the general behaviour of
the organization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 127-136
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Company, Performance Modelling, System Dynamics, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079699
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:127-136
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rajat Roy
Author-X-Name-First: Rajat
Author-X-Name-Last: Roy
Author-Name: Justine Brown
Author-X-Name-First: Justine
Author-X-Name-Last: Brown
Author-Name: Chris Gaze
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Gaze
Title: Re-engineering the construction process in the speculative house-building sector
Abstract:
The UK house-building industry has often been criticized for failing to
meet the housing needs of the country. The traditional craft-based build
process is labour intensive with a long lead-time and is difficult to
control for product quality. It is also not suitable for configurable
designs that would help to customize the home, and the industry has been
criticized for excessive standardization of its products. Attempts at
industrialization, usually employing frame or panel-based build methods
seen in many countries, have failed due mainly to lack of clear
objectives. A change in build technology is also only one step in
addressing the concerns of poor quality and lack of product variety. The
paper presents a programme of work that is being carried out with a major
house builder towards re-engineering of the build process through a
combination of new technology, product engineering and changes in working
practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 137-146
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: House Building, Industrialized Housing, Process Re-engineering, Mass Customization, Supply Chain Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049674
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:137-146
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: The quest for quality in public housing projects: a behaviour-to-outcome paradigm
Abstract:
This paper investigates the pursuit of quality in public housing projects
through the implementation of ISO 9000 in the last decade in Hong Kong. A
behaviour-to-performance-to-outcome paradigm is adopted to examine the
process of this quality pursuit. The research was carried out in three
stages to examine (1) the 'outcome' of the building product as assessed by
the occupants by means of post-occupancy evaluation, (2) the 'performance'
of the building product by analysing the buildings' defects lists and
housing managers' perceptions of residents' feedback, and (3) the
'behaviour' of the contractors by investigating their awareness and
adoption of total quality management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 147-158
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Behaviour, Housing Quality, Iso 9000, Performance, Post-occupancy Evaluation, Project Outcome,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049700
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000049700
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. R. M. Ameen
Author-X-Name-First: J. R. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ameen
Author-Name: R. H. Neale
Author-X-Name-First: R. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Neale
Author-Name: M. Abrahamson
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Abrahamson
Title: An application of regression analysis to quantify a claim for increased costs
Abstract:
This paper is a case study of the use of multiple linear regression
analysis to quantify a claim for extra payment to a subcontractor for work
on a substantial construction earth-moving project. The basis of the claim
was that the client and main contractor required the work to be executed
in ways other than that originally planned by the subcontractor, reducing
efficiency and so increasing costs. The authors of this paper represented
the earth-moving subcontractor in a legal arbitration, in which this
application of multiple linear regression analysis was fundamental to
quantifying the amount claimed in the case. The analysis determined the
time required to perform earth-moving tasks, based on a set of explanatory
variables, using data sets recorded on-site. The same equation was then
applied to the plan of work used for the tender and was used to show that
the comparative efficiency between tender and actual was as low as 25%.
The claim was successful, and the calculations described in this paper
were used to quantify a total additional payment of approximately
£;380 000.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 159-165
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Cost Estimation, Regression Analysis, Claim, Earth-moving Works, Efficiency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049683
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:159-165
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: The claims culture: a taxonomy of attitudes in the industry
Abstract:
This paper presents an analysis of a familiar aspect of construction
industry culture that we have dubbed 'the claims culture'. This is a
culture of contract administration that lays a strong emphasis on the
planning and management of claims. The principal elements of the analysis
are two sets of distinctions. The first comprises economic and
occupational orders, referring to two kinds of control that are exercised
over the construct ion process; predicated respectively on economic
ownership and occupational competence. The second refers to contrasting
attitudes towards relationships and problem solving within these orders:
respectively 'distributive' and 'integrative'. The concepts of economic
and occupational order entail further sub-categories. The various
attitudes associated with these categories and sub-categories are
described. They are assessed as to their consequences for change
initiatives in the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 167-174
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Culture, Claims Management, Procurement, Ethnography, Grounded Theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079707
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:167-174
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Dong-Eun Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Dong-Eun
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Title: Assessing the corporate service quality performance of design-build contractors using quality function deployment
Abstract:
The design-build (D/B) project delivery system has gained increased
market share in the last few years. It is superior to traditional systems
in some respects but some claim that it does not lend itself to effective
quality assurance and control. D/B construction owners who are in the
process of selecting a D/B firm for a project should therefore be well
informed about the quality performance of potential D/B firms in their
bidding list. Total quality consists of the corporate quality culture, the
quality of the project service, and the quality of the constructed
facility. This paper describes a tool that was developed to measure the
corporate service quality of a D/B firm using quality function deployment
(QFD). The service quality factors are ranked relative to construction
owners' needs and expectations by means of a survey administered to
construction owners. The components of quality management systems in place
in D/B firms are ranked by D/B executives in a survey administered to
senior D/B firms. The relationships between service quality factors and
quality system requirements are established by a professional quality
system assessor and all these attributes are integrated into one system
called the Corporate Service a'House of Quality.' The tool developed can
be used by construction owners to rank D/B firms relative to corporate
service quality as well as by D/B firms to benchmark themselves against
their competitors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 175-185
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Service Quality, Quality Management, Design-build Contracts, Quality Function Deployment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079716
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:175-185
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Title: A matrix to indicate the utility of technologies
Abstract:
The development and performance of buildings and building components can
be improved through better use of technology. However, identifying
appropriate technologies can become more difficult as more options become
available. Detailed descriptions of alternative technologies can be
difficult to compare with each other. Yet, more superficial descriptions
can be misleading and result in unnecessarily limited adoption of
technologies. In other industries, simple diagrammatic tools such as
matrices have proven to be an effective method of indicating the utility
of technologies. These show the relevance of specific technologies to
different types of products and product components. This paper proposes a
matrix to indicate the relevance of technologies to different types of
buildings and building components. First, the purpose of the technology
matrix (TM) is defined. Then, the conceptual framework of the TM is
explained. Next, factors to be considered when assessing the utility of
technologies are described. Having introduced the TM, some illustrative
examples are provided. These show that there are few technologies that can
improve the development and performance of all buildings and building
components. In many cases, there are barriers to feasibility, viability
and/or practicability that need to be represented. In conclusion,
guidelines for successful introduction of the TM are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 187-196
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Feasibility, Matrix, Practic ability, Technology, Viability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079725
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:187-196
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Ekstrom
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Ekstrom
Author-Name: Hans Bjornsson
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Bjornsson
Author-Name: Clifford Nass
Author-X-Name-First: Clifford
Author-X-Name-Last: Nass
Title: Accounting for rater credibility when evaluating AEC subcontractors
Abstract:
In consumer electronic markets, rating mechanisms are important
facilitators of trust between market participants. This paper investigates
whether source credibility theory can support the evaluation of bidders in
architecture/engineering/construction (AEC) electronic market places. In
contrast to consumer electronic marketplaces, the raters in AEC
communities are skilled and connected, necessitating a reputation
mechanism to account for the relationship between the user and the rater.
To solve this problem, TrustBuilder, a prototype rating tool, facilitates
information sharing between peer industry practitioners by calculating a
weighted rating based on source credibility theory. An experiment shows
that AEC industry practitioners who evaluate bidding subcontractors
trusted the information provided by TrustBuilder significantly more than
information from a standard unweighted rating tool.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 197-208
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Reputation Mechanism, Electronic Commerce, Source Credibility, Bidding, Trust, Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049656
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:197-208
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Mei-I Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-I
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Author-Name: David Moore
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Moore
Title: Redefining performance measures for construction project managers: an empirical evaluation
Abstract:
Traditional success criteria for construction projects centre on the
achievement of cost, programme and quality targets. In this paper, it is
argued that these simple measures are too crude to be used for gauging
managers' performance in the context of today's construction project
environment, as many variables outside of the manager's control can impact
on outturn performance and the demands on project managers are far broader
than in the past. It is argued that the industry needs to define more
appropriate performance criteria for measuring project managers'
performance and encouraging their professional development. These must
redefine traditional success parameters to consider the knowledge, skills
and behavioural inputs which contribute to superior performance. These can
then be used to engender a more appropriate set of management behaviours
that lead to improved project outcomes. This study has developed such a
framework by examining the views of members of project teams and other
organizational stakeholders through a series of focus groups. Factor
analysis was used to refine a range of nine performance criteria against
which managers' performance can be evaluated. These have the potential to
be used as a basis for developing more appropriate reward management
approaches and as a starting point for developing competency-based
performance management tools in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-218
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Contractors' Construction Project Managers, Performance Criteria, Performance Management, Competence Analysis, Factor Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049737
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:209-218
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Igal Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Author-Name: Sarel Lavy-Leibovich
Author-X-Name-First: Sarel
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavy-Leibovich
Author-Name: Dany Bar-On
Author-X-Name-First: Dany
Author-X-Name-Last: Bar-On
Title: Integrated maintenance monitoring of hospital buildings
Abstract:
The performance of hospital buildings depends to a large degree on the
efficiency of maintenance execution. The research objectives were to
examine the efficiency of maintenance under alternative maintenance
policies and alternative sources of labour (outsourcing vs. in-house). The
research focused on maintenance of hospital buildings as a model for
multi-system buildings operating in dynamic environments. The research
used a systematic field survey followed by an in-depth statistical
analysis. Four key performance indicators (KPIs) were developed. The
first, the building performance indicator (BPI), indicates the
physical-functional condition of buildings. The second, the manpower
sources diagram (MSD), reflects the efficiency of using in-house labour
vs. the outsourcing of labour. The third, the maintenance efficiency
indicator (MEI), is based on the annual costs of maintenance, the building
age coefficient and the building occupancy coefficient. This indicator
reflects the efficiency of usage of the resources (labour, outsourcing,
materials and spare parts) in maintenance. The fourth indicator deals with
the organizational structure of the maintenance division. The proposed
KPIs integrate four aspects of hospital facilities management: performance
management, composition of labour, efficiency of main-tenance operations
and organizational effectiveness. Efficient execution of maintenance
management of hospital buildings may be obtained by the simultaneous
implementation of the aforementioned KPIs. The proposed indicators may be
adapted to other types of facilities, such as office buildings, industrial
plants and infrastructure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 219-228
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Facilities Management, Key Performance Indicators, Life Cycle Costs, Maintenance Management, Outsourcing, Performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079734
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:219-228
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dany Bar-On
Author-X-Name-First: Dany
Author-X-Name-Last: Bar-On
Title: Book Reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-230
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049728
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:229-230
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dany Bar-On
Author-X-Name-First: Dany
Author-X-Name-Last: Bar-On
Title: Forthcoming events
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 231-232
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/713763922
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:231-232
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dany Bar-On
Author-X-Name-First: Dany
Author-X-Name-Last: Bar-On
Title: Authors' Charter
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 233-233
Issue: 2
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000079581
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000079581
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:2:p:233-233
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dany Bar-On
Author-X-Name-First: Dany
Author-X-Name-Last: Bar-On
Title: Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 235-236
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093756
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:235-236
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Nicholas
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicholas
Author-Name: D. J. Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: D. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: A model to evaluate materials suppliers' and contractors' business interactions
Abstract:
A symbiotic business relationship exists between materials suppliers and
construction contractors. Specifically, contractors must continually
purchase materials on credit to complete projects, whilst suppliers exist
on the profits made from selling such. In the absence of this indirect
source of liquidity, many construction projects would not be completed.
Despite the supplier incurring substantial financial risk when furnishing
credit to contractors, there are currently no definitive or accurate means
with which to measure and predict this risk. This paper presents the
findings of a survey conducted throughout the UK that aimed to model the
utility value that material suppliers experience when they interact with
contractors. It is proposed that the (novel and new) methodological
approach used will enable materials suppliers to enhance their
decision-making process and subsequently boost business performance (and
most notably, profit). Such improvements could ultimately be passed
directly to good debtors in terms of lower materials costs, better
delivery specifications, and improved creditor staff motivation.
Subsequently, this could translate as more economical construction
projects for clients. The paper concludes with direction for future works
that would develop a more user-friendly software package and subsequently
implement the research findings throughout the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-245
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Materials Suppliers, Credit And Debt, Creditworthiness, Construction Contractors, Financial Management, Utility, Business Relationships,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049692
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:237-245
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Hoe Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu Hoe
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Stephen Ogunlana
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogunlana
Title: Selecting superior performance improvement policies
Abstract:
The changing trends in the Asian construction sector are creating both
new opportunities for and threats to the domestic construction
organizations. To improve the competitiveness of these organizations,
senior managers are tasked with the responsibility of selecting and
implementing improvement policies to enhance organizational performance.
This study utilizes the system dynamics methodology to provide a careful
and holistic evaluation of the policies. A model is built to represent an
average performing construction organization listed on the Kuala Lumpur
Stock Exchange. Long-term simulation of the validated model produces the
forecasted organization performance. Three improvement policies
recommended by CIDB (2000) that have different cost and benefit impact
profiles are selected for evaluation. Taking into consideration the impact
of the economy on the construction industry, simulated results of the
policies and combination of the policies indicate that the implementation
of short-term improvement policies produces superior improvement in
organization performance when compared with other policies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 247-256
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Company, Performance Evaluation, System Dynamics, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093765
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:247-256
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Title: GA-ANN model for optimizing the locations of tower crane and supply points for high-rise public housing construction
Abstract:
Site layout planning is a complicated issue due to the existence of a
vast number of trades and inter-related planning constraints. In this
paper, artificial neural networks are used to model the non-linear
operations of a key site facility: a tower crane — for high-rise
public housing construction. Then genetic algorithms are used to determine
the locations of the tower crane, supply points and demand points by
optimizing the transportation time and costs. The scope of this study
confines to a defined area of construction: the structural concrete-frame
construction stage of public housing projects. The developed genetic
algorithm model for site facility layout and the artificial neural network
model for predicting tower-crane operations are evaluated using a
practical example. The optimization results of the example are very
promising and it demonstrates the application value of the models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 257-266
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Site Layout, Genetic Algorithms, Tower Crane, Public Housing Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049665
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:257-266
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jakrapong Pongpeng
Author-X-Name-First: Jakrapong
Author-X-Name-Last: Pongpeng
Author-Name: John Liston
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Liston
Title: Contractor ability criteria: a view from the Thai construction industry
Abstract:
Realizing that there is a lack of commonality in selecting criteria to
evaluate contractor ability, the study aim was to develop a common set of
contractor ability criteria for both government and private sectors. This
included a standardized set of physical characteristics (hierarchical
organizational units) of contractors. The Thai construction industry was
surveyed as to the degrees of importance placed on a range of criteria and
measures. Similarities and differences between the government and private
sectors in selecting contractor ability criteria have been analysed by
comparing the importance index and ranking order and comparing mean
importance placed on criteria and measures. Relationships between all
criteria and measures have also been explored by using correlation
coefficients. Factor analysis has been applied to group all highly
correlated measures together so as to develop a common set of contractor
ability criteria. The result of analysing similarities and differences
indicated only slight differences in the mean importance of criteria and
measures between the government and private sectors. Thus, a common set of
contractor ability criteria has been developed by applying factor
analysis, namely, 'engineering/construction', 'procurement/contract',
'project managers', 'human resources', 'quality management systems',
'health and safety', 'plant/equipment', 'financial strength' and 'public
relations'.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 267-282
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Contractor Ability Criteria, Contractor Ability, Thai Construction Industry, Prequalification, Factor Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049647
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:267-282
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed El-Haram
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Haram
Author-Name: R. Malcolm
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Malcolm
Author-Name: W. Horner
Author-X-Name-First: W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Application of the principles of ILS to the development of cost effective maintenance strategies for existing building stock
Abstract:
Total spending on building maintenance in the UK has increased by 66% in
the last 10 years (BMI, 1996). Total expenditure on maintenance in 1997
was £39.8 billion (BMI, 1998). Any significant reduction in building
maintenance costs will therefore have a real impact on the national
economy. This paper reports the results of a research project supported by
the EPSRC at the University of Dundee, which sought to quantify the
benefits of applying integrated logistics support (ILS) to the development
of cost-effective maintenance strategies for existing building stock. ILS
is a managerial and technical approach that ensures that the client/user
will receive a building that will meet performance requirements
(durability, reliability, maintainability, performance, etc.) at the
lowest whole life cost. The principles of ILS are described and a
systematic framework for selecting the most appropriate and cost-effective
maintenance task for each individual element in a building is developed.
The decision logic processes for identifying each failure consequence and
for selecting the most applicable and cost-effective maintenance task are
derived. The maintenance cost savings arising from the application of two
ILS techniques - failure modes and effects analysis, and reliability
centred maintenance - to a sample of 18 properties were calculated to be
18.5%.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 283-296
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Integrated Logistics Support, Maintenance Strategy, Failure Consequences, Whole Life Costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093774
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:283-296
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Takayuki Minato
Author-X-Name-First: Takayuki
Author-X-Name-Last: Minato
Title: Representing causal mechanism of defective designs: a system approach considering human errors
Abstract:
Reducing design defects by proactive actions requires comprehensive
understanding of how and why they happen. To achieve this, it is necessary
to know the causal relationships of inherent factors, by which design
defects arise. This paper represents a causal mechanism of defective
design occurrence by considering interactions of underlying factors in
designing process. The mechanism draws on the system approach to human
errors to describe defects in design caused by designers' active
failuresand failures of design reviews as defences to catch defects. It
portrays the causal process of the failures with workplace factors and
organizational factors as influencing factors. Workplace factors arise
from designers' working conditions and include internal and external
factors to the actors. Organizational factors comprise elements due to
client and designer company's conditions. Then, two failure pathways are
discussed to show how the factors lead to design defects. Two case studies
are presented in this paper to clarify and explain the mechanism.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 297-305
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Active Failures, Defective Design, Defences Failures, Human Error, Latent Factors, Mechanism, System Approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056135
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:297-305
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Florence Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Arun Bajracharya
Author-X-Name-First: Arun
Author-X-Name-Last: Bajracharya
Title: Organizational motivation and inter-organizational interaction in construction innovation in Singapore
Abstract:
This paper examines the individual firm's motivation to adopt innovation
in a construction project, and the inter-organizational interactions of
relevant parties involved in innovation. Based on the theory of
organizational motivation and inter-organizational relationships, seven
hypotheses are set out. These hypotheses are tested using a structured
questionnaire, and data were collected via a postal survey. From the
results, it is concluded that an innovative proposal may be successfully
implemented in the project if effort is put into carrying the innovation
through, and there are high expected goals, favourable,results and high
commitment. Firms need to be motivated to adopt the innovation, be
optimistic about the results and exert additional effort. Incentives for
the supporting parties need to be substantial to persuade them to
participate in the innovation. In addition, the innovation should be
designed such that it could draw all upstream and downstream parties
together, and all their interests are looked after in the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 307-318
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Innovation, Organizational Motivation, Inter-organizational Interaction, Origin Organization, Support Organization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056144
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:307-318
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: An input-output analysis of the construction sector in highly developed economies
Abstract:
Using OECD input/output tables at current and constant prices, this paper
analyses the performance of the construction sector of eight highly
industrialized countries - Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany,
The Netherlands, Japan and the USA - in the 1970s and 1980s. First, the
main characteristics of the data set with country and time coverage are
briefly introduced. Then, a set of simple indicators is used for
comparative purposes, namely to assess the construction sector's
diminishing role in terms of share in gross output, value added and GNP.
Analysis focuses also on technologies, with emphasis on the relative role
of manufacturing and services inputs. Lastly, standard measures of
linkages are used to determine the main sources of induced output that are
created by the push and pull effects of the construction sector on the
rest of the economy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 319-327
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Technologies, Input/Output Analysis, Constant Prices, Linkages,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056153
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:319-327
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: Book Review
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 329-329
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000085052
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000085052
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:329-329
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: Forthcoming events
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 331-332
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/713763936
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/713763936
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:331-332
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: Authors' Charter
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 333-333
Issue: 3
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093783
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000093783
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:3:p:333-333
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 335-336
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111223
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111223
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:335-336
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rob Shields
Author-X-Name-First: Rob
Author-X-Name-Last: Shields
Author-Name: Kevin West
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: West
Title: Innovation in clean-room construction: a case study of co-operation between firms
Abstract:
This study examines partnering between a large client, multinational
contractors and specialist suppliers, and local subcontractors involved in
a project to construct clean room facilities. An ethnographic approach is
used, which demonstrates the changing attitudes, values and the new
working arrangements that emerged. The social bond of a 'construction
challenge' was the basis of trust and sharing risk in a 'quasi-fixed
network'. In place of formal contracts, ongoing bargaining and continuous
negotiation took place. However, the client was seen to dominate the
construction process. Shared workspaces or 'liminal zones', betwixt and
between firms, were created to allow collaboration. These are argued to be
a practical organizational approach to sharing information and
co-ordinating inter-firm activities. Among trades, agreements were struck
to exchange training and apprenticeships for allowing foreign specialists
and equipment to be imported by the high-purity gas supplier. Liminal
zones appear to function as on-the-job classrooms for rapidly training
workers in unfamiliar construction techniques and systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 337-344
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Clean Rooms, Inter-organizational Innovation, Quasi-fixed Network, Risk, Partnering, Labour Relations, Canada,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111232
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111232
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:337-344
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Horsley
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Horsley
Author-Name: Chris France
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: France
Author-Name: Barry Quatermass
Author-X-Name-First: Barry
Author-X-Name-Last: Quatermass
Title: Delivering energy efficient buildings: a design procedure to demonstrate environmental and economic benefits
Abstract:
One of the most significant environmental impacts of buildings occurs
through the consumption of energy during their operational lives. It is a
well-known fact that buildings in the UK are only a fraction as efficient
as current approaches and available technologies permit. The effective
management of the design process is pivotal in the delivery of buildings
with improved energy efficiency but, despite this, the monitoring of
energy performance is not currently a typical part of the construction
design process. This paper describes the development of a design
management procedure in which energy performance is monitored from the
earliest phases of building inception. The decision support tool gives
guidance to design teams at a stage in the design process where there is
currently a lack of information on project-specific energy performance
issues, and their environmental and economic implications. Life cycle cost
performance is captured through elemental life cycle costing, in which the
implementation of systems to improve efficiency are considered as a
function of additional and avoided life cycle costs. This procedure has
been developed through public-sector private finance initiative (PFI)
projects, which allow a longer-term view of both capital and operating
costs, since the contractors are an integral part of the long-term
management consortium. The much greater level of opportunity presented in
these contracts and the potential to influence the wider marketplace could
offer a breakthrough for the wider acceptance of environmentally sensitive
building design.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 345-356
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Energy Efficiency, Life Cycle Costing, Building Design, Private Finance Initiative, Sustainable Construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000073505
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000073505
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:345-356
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alex Eyiah
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Eyiah
Author-Name: Paul Cook
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Cook
Title: Financing small and medium-scale contractors in developing countries: a Ghana case study
Abstract:
Little success has been achieved in financing assistant programmes for
contractors in developing countries. This paper focuses on the experience
of the Bank for Housing and Construction (BHC) of Ghana. Factors
accountable for underachievement of its programme include: contractor's
lack of managerial and technical capability; inability to obtain
contracts; persistent delayed payments by major clients; and the
deliberate refusal to repay loans. Suggestions offered for improving the
effectiveness of programmes, on the academic and practical front, relate
well with developments in small and medium-size enterprise (SME) finance.
A survey in Ghana found that there was a strong desire to establish a
contractors' bank. There would be the need for the contractors association
to reform before it could play a meaningful role in the proposed bank. The
importance of effective governance in achieving success cannot be
overemphasized, likewise the role of government and donors in encouraging
the setting up of a conducive regulatory framework.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 357-367
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Developing Countries, Ghana, Contractors, Sme, Finance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111241
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111241
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:357-367
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Enrique Claver
Author-X-Name-First: Enrique
Author-X-Name-Last: Claver
Author-Name: Jose Molina
Author-X-Name-First: Jose
Author-X-Name-Last: Molina
Author-Name: Juan Tari
Author-X-Name-First: Juan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tari
Title: Strategic groups and firm performance: the case of Spanish house-building firms
Abstract:
A central theme in strategic management is the theoretical relationship
between strategic groups and firm performance. However, the empirical
evidence is conflicting. The aim of this research is to study this linkage
by examining business strategies in the Spanish construction industry.
This paper defines several groups based on Porter's generic strategies of
88 house-building firms, and studies performance differences between
groups. The empirical findings demonstrate that significant differences in
performance do not exist among groups. Implications of this research for
Porter's generic strategies in construction are then discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 369-377
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction Industry, Strategic Groups, Firm Performance, Competitive Strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111250
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111250
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:369-377
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Frameworks for analysing international construction
Abstract:
The international construction market is subject to many dynamic
influences that can lead to changes in the volume, mix and distribution of
demand and sources of competitiveness. The international construction firm
faces several problems: physical, technological, financial, legal,
socio-cultural and political. It is important that factors that contribute
to the success of firms in this market are clearly understood. This paper
considers relevant aspects of international construction. The
international performance of construction firms in middle- and low-income
countries is compared. The applicability of various analytical frameworks
to international construction is then examined. Finally, the implications
for future research are considered.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 379-391
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Overseas Construction, Competitiveness, Conceptual Frameworks, Research Agenda,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049746
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000049746
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:379-391
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. V. Thomas
Author-X-Name-First: A. V.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas
Author-Name: Satyanarayana Kalidindi
Author-X-Name-First: Satyanarayana
Author-X-Name-Last: Kalidindi
Author-Name: K. Ananthanarayanan
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ananthanarayanan
Title: Risk perception analysis of BOT road project participants in India
Abstract:
Despite massive investment opportunities and the establishment of a
framework for private sector participation in highway infrastructure
development programmes in India, private investment (including foreign
direct investment) in this sector is not up to the expected level. A high
degree of risk exposure, disagreement on many risk issues among major
stakeholders, and the absence of adequate government guarantees have been
identified as some of the major reasons for this lukewarm response. This
paper discusses the outcome of a risk perception analysis carried out to
evaluate the risk criticality, risk management capability, risk
allocation/sharing preference, and factors influencing risk acceptance of
major stakeholders. A survey was conducted among senior project
participants such as government officials, promoters, lenders and
consultants of Indian BOT road projects. Eight types of risks have been
identified as very critical in the Indian road sector under BOT set up
with traffic revenue risk being the most critical. Though there is fair
agreement among survey respondents with respect to the risk management
capabilities of stakeholders, their preferences of allocations are
divergent. The significant factors influencing the risk acceptance of each
stakeholder are identified through regression analysis. The study reveals
that the factors and their relative influence on the risk acceptance of
stakeholders are considerably different.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 393-407
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Highway Infrastructure, Bot Projects, Risk Perception, Risk Criticality, Risk Allocation, Risk Acceptance, Regression, Traffic Revenue Risk, India,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000064127
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000064127
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:393-407
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sudong Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Sudong
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Title: Tariff adjustment frameworks for privately financed infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Since privately financed infrastructure (PFI) projects are usually
natural monopolies, their tariffs should be regulated to ensure socially
desirable outcomes. In reality, the regulation is usually realized through
tariff adjustment mechanisms. There are four basic tariff adjustment
frameworks for PFI projects - adjustment based on sale price, revenue,
operating income and profit after tax. They have different risk exposures
and incentives. The adjustment based on the sale price provides the
project company with the highest potential to increase profit but exposes
it to the highest risk, while the adjustment based on the guaranteed ROR
exposes the project company to the lowest risk but provides the least
potential for increasing profit. Adjustments based on the revenue or the
operating income are somewhere in between. In practice, a hybrid of two or
more adjustment frameworks may be adopted to adapt to specific project
environments. A well-designed tariff adjustment framework can create a
'win-win' solution for both the public and private sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-419
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Regulation, Tariff Adjustment Framework, Privately Financed Infrastructure, Bot, Risk Management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000073550
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000073550
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:409-419
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Pitt
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Pitt
Author-Name: Andrew Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: An assessment of waste management efficiency at BAA airports
Abstract:
The issue of waste management within airports is becoming increasingly
important with enormous increases in passenger numbers and is a key
responsibility of the facilities manager. Airports are notoriously poor
environmental performers and this growth in the industry is leading to
increasing levels of waste production. The purpose of this paper is to
assess the efficiency of waste management operations at BAA airports, with
reference to best practices within airports in continental Europe. The
paper presents the findings of a survey of waste management methods in a
sample of UK airports. The analysis of numerical data is based on those
airports in the BAA group. Many of these are among the busiest airports in
Britain, and Heathrow and Gatwick are two of the world's busiest. Data
constraints prevented a more detailed analysis of other airports outside
BAA. The paper highlights some difficulties in measuring BAA's waste
management efficiency based on the waste hierarchy and concludes that some
European airports have achieved greater efficiency in waste management.
The situation is now changing though and BAA is taking environmental
management seriously. However, a more co-ordinated approach to
environmental strategy is needed across the industry and this is best
produced at government level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 421-431
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Airports, Facilities Management, Environment, Recycling, Waste,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000089599
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000089599
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:421-431
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Book Reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-437
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000072119
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000072119
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:433-437
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Forthcoming Events
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 439-440
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111278
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111278
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:439-440
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Authors' Charter
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 441-441
Issue: 4
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000111269
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000111269
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:4:p:441-441
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. Warszawski
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Warszawski
Title: Parametric analysis of the financing cost in a building project
Abstract:
A parametric model is presented for the evaluation of financing cost in a
construction project. The cost can be assessed at a very early stage of
the project's design. The main parameters that are examined are the
duration of the project, its pattern of cost and sales distribution, the
cost of owner's equity capital and of external debt. Three financing
options are examined and their effect on the financing cost is evaluated.
The influence on the cost of financing of the main decision variables,
such as the construction duration or the profit margin, is also examined.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 447-459
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Financing, construction, construction project, loan, credit line, construction loan,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000049638
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000049638
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:447-459
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Author-Name: Cliff Hardcastle
Author-X-Name-First: Cliff
Author-X-Name-Last: Hardcastle
Author-Name: Matthias Beck
Author-X-Name-First: Matthias
Author-X-Name-Last: Beck
Author-Name: Ezekiel Chinyio
Author-X-Name-First: Ezekiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinyio
Author-Name: Darinka Asenova
Author-X-Name-First: Darinka
Author-X-Name-Last: Asenova
Title: Achieving best value in private finance initiative project procurement
Abstract:
The wherewithal of achieving best value in private finance initiative
(PFI) projects and the associated problems therein are documented. In the
UK, PFI has offered a solution to the problem of securing necessary
investment at a time of severe public expenditure restraint. In PFI
schemes, the public sector clients must secure value for money, while the
private sector service providers must genuinely assume responsibility for
project risks. A broad-based investigation into PFI risk management
informs the discussion in this paper. It is based on 68 interviews with
PFI participants and a case study of eight PFI projects. The research
participants comprised of contractors, financial institutions, public
sector clients, consultants and facilities management organizations. The
qualitative software Atlas.ti was used to analyse the textual data
generated. The analysis showed that the achievement of best value
requirements through PFI should hinge on: detailed risk analysis and
appropriate risk allocation, drive for faster project completion,
curtailment in project cost escalation, encouragement of innovation in
project development, and maintenance cost being adequately accounted for.
Factors that continue to challenge the achievement of best value are: high
cost of the PFI procurement process, lengthy and complex negotiations,
difficulty in specifying the quality of service, pricing of facility
management services, potential conflicts of interests among those involved
in the procurement, and the public sector clients' inability to manage
consultants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 461-470
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Best value, risk management, procurement, facilities management, qualitative research, financial institution, risk allocation, value for money,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000087285
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000087285
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:461-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sudong Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Sudong
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Title: The effect of concession period design on completion risk management of BOT projects
Abstract:
The design of concession period for build-operate-transfer (BOT) projects
is crucial to financial viability and completion risk management. A
systematic analysis shows that concession period design involves the
design of concession period structure, the determination of the concession
period length and incentive schemes. The concession period may have a
single-period structure or a two-period structure, its length may be fixed
or variable, and it may be combined with incentive schemes. Different
designs reflect different risk control strategies for completion time
overruns. The single-period concession structure requires the project
company to assume completion risk, while the two-period concession
structure could, to some extent, reduce the completion risk exposure to
the project company, depending on the incentive schemes. Through Monte
Carlo simulation, this paper evaluates the mean net present value (NPV),
variance and NPV-at-risk of different concession period structures so that
both the government and the concessionaires can understand their risk
exposure and rewards. The paper then analyses the influence of project
characteristics on concession period design to evaluate the feasibility of
the design. It is concluded that a well-designed concession period
structure can create a 'win-win' solution for both project promoter and
the host government.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-482
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Concession period structure, incentive scheme, privately financed infrastructure, BOT, completion risk management, simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000073488
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000073488
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:471-482
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farzad Khosrowshahi
Author-X-Name-First: Farzad
Author-X-Name-Last: Khosrowshahi
Author-Name: Amir Alani
Author-X-Name-First: Amir
Author-X-Name-Last: Alani
Title: A model for smoothing time-series data in construction
Abstract:
The understanding of the behaviour of time-series data has been a matter
of concern to researchers and practitioners in a variety of fields ranging
from social science and economics to engineering. Also, the behaviour of
many phenomena within fields relating and peripheral to construction is
described as a time series. Typically, the time-series analysis is carried
out in order to forecast the future values of the series. These
techniques, however, are also used to abstract the generalities within the
series, hence facilitating the replication of the entire profile,
reflecting only the main characteristics of the profile. There is a
variety of techniques that can be applied to a set of time-related data.
The choice of the technique is, therefore, dependent on the nature of the
problem and the characteristics of the data. The diversity of available
techniques is, on the one hand an advantage for all analysts. However,
this diversity is also an indication that there is no universal technique
that is applicable to a diversity of time-series data. This work
fundamentally addresses the issue of smoothing and curve-fitting
techniques rather than predicting and forecasting. A technique is offered
which is tested against a set of criteria that are designed to focus on
the accuracy of imitation and the practicality of operation: the ability
to deal with a large number of time-series sets of data in a consistent,
replicable and automated way. The viability of the technique is
demonstrated by its application to expenditure profiles of a large number
of construction projects. The size of the sample and the diversity in the
profiles of the expenditure patterns provided an appropriate testing
ground for the universality of the model. The results indicated that the
model can effectively transform a jagged time series into a smooth
pattern, while complying with a set of criteria many of which are common
to several other research works relating to time-series data analysis. The
proposed technique sequences a number of basic smoothing methods and the
process involves the treatment and incorporation of the residual values.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-494
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Smoothing, forecasting, time series, project expenditure pattern,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000073541
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000073541
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:483-494
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. F. Ng
Author-X-Name-First: M. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: V. M. Rao Tummala
Author-X-Name-First: V. M. Rao
Author-X-Name-Last: Tummala
Author-Name: Richard Yam
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Yam
Title: A risk-based maintenance management model for toll road/tunnel operations
Abstract:
Preventive maintenance (PM) has long been recognized as a method to
increase equipment reliability and availability. However, for equipment in
complex plant installations like toll road/tunnel systems, to carry out PM
on all components may not be feasible, or, may end up with excessive
maintenance costs. This paper describes how a risk-based maintenance
management model was formulated to systematically prioritize PM
activities. The model was based on the five core elements of the risk
management process (RMP): identification, measurement, assessment,
valuation, and control and monitoring. This model was applied to a toll
road/tunnel company in Hong Kong to enhance the PM operations of its
lighting system. The improvements recommended in this case study show that
the application of RMP in preventive maintenance could effectively
identify and assess potential risks for equipment and facilities. The RMP
results provide quantified information for decision-makers to select the
best course of actions for implementing a more cost-effective risk-based
PM system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-510
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Risk management process, preventive maintenance, toll road/tunnel, operations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000089616
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000089616
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:495-510
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Arjen Van Leuven
Author-X-Name-First: Arjen
Author-X-Name-Last: Van Leuven
Author-Name: Albertus Laan
Author-X-Name-First: Albertus
Author-X-Name-Last: Laan
Title: Enterprise Resource Planning in a large construction firm: implementation analysis
Abstract:
In most large Dutch construction firms, Enterprise Resource Planning
(ERP) systems have replaced non-integrated information systems with
integrated and maintainable software. The implementation of ERP systems in
such firms is a difficult task. So far, ERP implementations have yielded
more failures than successes. This study tries to understand the factors
that lead to the success or failure of ERP in large construction firms by
focusing on the fits between the following pairs of elements in ERP
implementations: business and IT strategy, maturity of the IT
infrastructure and the strategic role of IT, and the implementation method
and organizational change. The premise of this study is that for an ERP
implementation to be successful these elements must somehow fit together.
Empirical research was conducted through a case study of three ERP
implementations in different business units of a Dutch-based construction
firm. Implementing different systems within one company is typical of the
way large construction firms in the Netherlands have dealt with ERP. The
study shows that the success of ERP implementations depends on consistent
patterns between: IT strategy and business strategy, IT maturity and the
strategic role of IT, and the implementation method and organizational
change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 511-521
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Enterprise Resource Planning, construction, information technology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000072155
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:511-521
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Daniel Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Kathy Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Kathy
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Title: An empirical study of the benefits of construction partnering in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Many construction companies have adopted partnering in their construction
projects over the past 10-15 years due to favourable project outcomes
achieved. Its use in construction projects has been increasing rapidly as
its benefits become more apparent and pervasive. This paper reviews the
partnering literature within the construction field and tries to portray
the comprehensive picture of benefits for the partnering practice. Through
partnering and the active involvement of all key project parties, the
project is more likely to be completed within budget, on time, and with
the least number of conflicts, claims and work defects. Also, this paper
reports upon the findings of a questionnaire survey of partnering benefits
in Hong Kong. Seventy-eight project participants completed a questionnaire
to indicate the relative importance of partnering benefits. The perceived
benefits were measured and ranked from the perspectives of the client,
contractor and consultant for cross-comparison. The results revealed that
'Improved relationship amongst project participants', 'Improved
communication amongst project participants' and 'More responsive to the
short-term emergency, changing project or business needs' were the most
significant benefits derived from the use of partnering. More partnering
arrangements should be actively introduced into the construction
procurement process so that every party can enjoy the full benefits of
partnering.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 523-533
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Partnering, benefits, construction projects, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:523-533
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammad Ammar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Ammar
Title: Float analysis of non-serial repetitive activities
Abstract:
Floats and critical path(s) are important issues in construction
management practice. In critical path method, activities not on the
critical path(s) must have float. Float measures the amount of time an
activity can be delayed before it becomes critical. Consecutive repetitive
activities have production rates, which may vary considerably from one
activity to another. This creates a different situation (from traditional
non-repetitive activities) such that repetitive activities may have rate
float, in addition to time float. In this paper, a proposed model for
determining different types of floats for non-serial repetitive activities
is developed. The traditional concept of time float is extended to
repetitive activities. Rate float, which is an inherent property of
repetitive activities, is also determined. Float analysis is performed in
a very similar way to Critical Path Method (CPM) analysis, without the
need for graphical aids. The analysis is based on a repetitive scheduling
method, which utilizes a traditional CPM network of a typical unit, in
which overlapping activities are used to model repetitive activities. A
constant activity production rate is assumed and resource continuity is
maintained. The method for determining time floats (total and free) and
the rate float of non-critical activities and of non-controlling segments
of controlling activities is described in detail. The proposed model was
automated by a macro-program, which has been coded on a commercial
scheduling software to facilitate float determination.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-542
Issue: 5
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction management, scheduling, CPM, non-serial repetitive activities, controlling path, time and rate floats,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000073523
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000073523
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:5:p:535-542
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Gann
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Gann
Title: Guest editorial: innovation in the built environment
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-555
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134084
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000134084
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:553-555
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ritsuko Ozaki
Author-X-Name-First: Ritsuko
Author-X-Name-Last: Ozaki
Title: Customer-focused approaches to innovation in housebuilding
Abstract:
Customer focus has become a catch phrase not only in the service industry
but also in the housebuilding industry. Furthermore, UK speculative
housebuilders have increasingly been searching for ways to be more
customer focused. This study, through an analysis of the concept of
customer satisfaction in the service industry, identifies three key
aspects in customer focus that may be applied to the housebuilding
industry: good service, customized house design on top of quality
products, and good information flows between customers and the
housebuilder and within the company. This paper explores how these key
issues are dealt with in UK speculative housebuilding in two empirical
studies to search for ways forward.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 557-564
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Customer satisfaction, good service, good communication, customized house design,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134093
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000134093
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:557-564
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Title: Innovation and users: virtual reality in the construction sector
Abstract:
Firms in the construction sector act as users of technologies produced
outside the sector. This paper considers their role as users and explores
their contribution to the 're-innovation' of an emerging information
technology - virtual reality. An empirical study of virtual reality use
within the construction sector has been conducted using the multiple case
study method. Data was collected within 11 lead-user organizations (and
four suppliers) and emerging patterns of use are explored. An analytic
framework is developed to investigate how two aspects of project-based
construction processes - project size and extent of design reuse - affect
the technological requirements of users. Divergent requirements are found
for the use of virtual reality on different types of projects and, through
supplier interaction, these may lead to different families of solutions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 565-572
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Information technology, virtual reality, construction, users, innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000113690
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000113690
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:565-572
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ammon Salter
Author-X-Name-First: Ammon
Author-X-Name-Last: Salter
Author-Name: Richard Torbett
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Torbett
Title: Innovation and performance in engineering design
Abstract:
This paper explores the experiences of engineering, design and
construction organizations (EDOs) in developing innovative approaches to
performance measurement in their design activities. It contrasts
experiences of these firms with those of manufacturing organizations. It
finds that performance measurement of engineering design activities is
poorly understood in many industries, including construction. The
development of new performance measures can provide a new opportunity for
innovation in engineering, design and construction firms. At present, the
measures used to assess design in construction are based on the financial
performance of a project rather than other important objectives of the
design process, such as quality and buildability. In manufacturing
industries, firms rely on measures of new product development, but these
indicators also say little about the measurement of engineering design
activities, that is, those on-going and continuous. To realize the
innovative potential of design and performance measures, EDOs need to take
a broader perspective on the nature of design activities, and to look to
the experiences of leading manufacturing firms to find new ways of
measuring and understanding their design activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 573-580
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Innovation, design, performance measurement, engineering, design and construction organizations, manufacturing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134101
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:573-580
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denis Towill
Author-X-Name-First: Denis
Author-X-Name-Last: Towill
Title: Construction and the time compression paradigm
Abstract:
The total cycle time (TCT) compression paradigm has already come of age
in many market sectors, and is widely seen as the route whereby companies
attain international competitiveness. However, it is essential that the
relevant business processes are skilfully re-engineered to compress total
cycle time if the potential benefits of implementing the paradigm are to
be achieved in full. As the paper shows, reducing TCT in this way improves
all the important business performance metrics. The paper concludes by
describing the T40 construction programme, in which 25% cost reduction has
been consistently achieved by re-engineering the relevant business process
to compress total cycle times by 40%. Reduction in TCT achieved in this
way does not compromise safety or quality.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-591
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Total cycle time, business systems engineering, business processes, cost reduction, innovation in construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134110
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000134110
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:581-591
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Naim
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Naim
Author-Name: James Barlow
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Barlow
Title: An innovative supply chain strategy for customized housing
Abstract:
There has recently been considerable interest in construction research in
paradigms developed for the manufacturing sector. Using lean thinking and
agile production as examples of innovative organizational and business
process design, this paper explores their commonalities and differences.
In this way, it is possible to judge which paradigm is the most
appropriate for given market conditions. By presenting action research
outputs from a project on the UK house-building industry, the paper
indicates the potential application of both lean and agile construction
from a supply chain perspective. The paper concludes that house-building
supply chains have to be engineered according to whether the market
objectives are low cost, flexibility or a combination of the two.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 593-602
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Customization, house building, supply chain, lean and agile, process innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134129
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000134129
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:593-602
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Seaden
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Seaden
Author-Name: Michael Guolla
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Guolla
Author-Name: Jerome Doutriaux
Author-X-Name-First: Jerome
Author-X-Name-Last: Doutriaux
Author-Name: John Nash
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Nash
Title: Strategic decisions and innovation in construction firms
Abstract:
Current research on the process of innovation has focused attention on
the crucial role of the business firm as the place where new ideas are
developed and then implemented in the marketplace. Based on current
knowledge, a model was developed which attempts to replicate the strategic
decision-making process in a construction firm. It links perceived
business environment variables to various business strategy variables
(i.e. marketing, human resources and technology). These two sets of
variables are linked to the innovativeness of the firm, measured by the
number of advanced technologies and/or business practices currently used.
Innovativeness is subsequently linked to outcomes (i.e. profitability,
competitive advantage) to assess overall effectiveness. The model was
tested empirically, using data from the Survey on Innovation, Advanced
Technologies and Practices in the Construction and Related Industries
carried out by Statistics Canada in 1999 with 1739 usable responses. The
results generally support the proposed model; certain perceived business
environment and business strategy variables are significantly related to
firm innovativeness, however the link between innovativeness and outcomes
requires further confirmation. Many construction firms introduce new
approaches in information and construction technologies as well as in
business practices. A large number of these were found to provide
significant competitive advantage. In general, innovative behaviour varies
with the size of the firm.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-612
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Innovation, construction, business model, quantitative data,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134138
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:603-612
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Title: A literature synthesis of innovation in small construction firms: insights, ambiguities and questions
Abstract:
Construction firms are being challenged to be more adept at successful
innovation to better meet client needs and to enhance business
competitiveness. The substantial contribution that small construction
firms make to the output of the industry signifies the importance for this
body of firms to improve their innovation performance if the performance
of the industry as a whole is to move forward. The literature on
innovation in small construction firms is synthesized and structured
around a generic model to provide a holistic picture of our current
knowledge. Significant gaps in the understanding and practice of
innovation in small construction literature are identified, which severely
hamper understanding of the myriad complex and systemically interactive
issues embodied within the theory and practice of innovation. The gaps
identified by this literature synthesis are the basis for a number of
important questions that, the authors propose, form an integrating agenda
for future research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 613-622
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction, innovation, small firms, research agenda,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134147
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:613-622
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Title: Appropriate innovation in small construction firms
Abstract:
Innovation-led performance improvement in the construction industry is
significantly influenced by the innovation performance of small firms.
There is a dearth of research investigating innovation from the
perspective of the small construction firm. This paper contributes to this
underdeveloped area by offering relevant empirically based results. The
findings stress the important role that owners of firms play in successful
innovation. The type of innovation undertaken, and the different
organizational factors which are brought into play, is shown to depend on
the characteristics of the interaction environment in which the firm is
operating. Small construction firms need to incrementally nurture, or
identify and move into, supportive enabling interaction environments. This
is achieved through an integrated development of a firm's business
strategy and market positioning, organization of work, technology and
people. The process of innovation is demonstrated to be subject to
cyclical peaks and troughs as the progress of the innovation competes with
day-to-day pressures. Small construction firms have their own distinctive
characteristics, which are profoundly different from those of large
construction firms. The implication for policy is that any initiatives
geared toward improving appropriate innovation need to appreciate these
differences.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-633
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction, innovation, small firms, research results,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000134156
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:623-633
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Title: Managing the implementation of construction innovations
Abstract:
This study investigates some factors that need to be considered in the
management of innovation implementation within construction project
organization. The main objective was to find explanatory variables that
significantly affect the benefits of an innovation to project team members
and the project as a whole. As part of a larger study on innovation in
Singapore's construction industry, a survey was conducted and data from 58
projects that had adopted innovations in Singapore were collected via
mailed questionnaire. The questionnaire requested respondents to provide
specific data about their projects, the type of innovations adopted and
the enablers and barriers to innovation. Four main categories of factors
were found to significantly affect the extent to which an innovation will
benefit project team members and the project. These are: the level of
interest of project team members; working environment; formation of task
groups; and the capabilities of the people involved in the innovation.
Research questions relating to modelling innovation success are posed for
further study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-649
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction innovation, innovation implementation, innovation management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000123725
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000123725
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:635-649
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: How innovative is construction? Comparing aggregated data on construction innovation and other sectors - a case of apples and pears
Abstract:
This research note addresses the widespread perception that construction
performs badly compared to other industrial sectors. The evidence for this
perception is usually based on comparative industrial performance data.
However, due to technical problems with the Standard Industrial
Classifications used, like is not compared with like in these analyses, to
the systematic disadvantage of the construction industry's comparative
performance. In an effort to improve the performance of the industry, the
auto industry is often held up as an exemplar. However, when that industry
is compared on a like-for-like basis with construction, it proves to have
a poor record of performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 651-654
Issue: 6
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Standard Industrial Classification, construction industry performance, auto industry performance, construction innovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000113708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:6:p:651-654
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jakrapong Pongpeng
Author-X-Name-First: Jakrapong
Author-X-Name-Last: Pongpeng
Author-Name: John Liston
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Liston
Title: A multicriteria model's survey: state of the art and some necessary capabilities of future models
Abstract:
To identify a state-of-the-art model and some necessary capabilities for
developing future multicriteria models, the literature on multicriteria
models in operations research was surveyed. All the models required
subjective inputs from decision-makers. A utility function was regarded as
the best model for including risk and uncertainty into the solution
analysis. On the other hand, a social welfare function was found to be the
most attractive in a democratic organization in handling the involvement
of multiple decision-makers. Thus, a combination of both the functions can
be described as state-of-the-art. In addition, the subjective inputs
changed over time in relation to a particular circumstance. For this
reason, computer interaction should be incorporated with this combination.
Therefore, some capabilities of (1) incorporating subjective inputs of
multiple decision-makers, (2) including elements of risk and uncertainty
and (3) absorbing the changes of subjective inputs via computer
interaction are necessary for future multicriteria models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 665-670
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Multicriteria, multicriteria models, optimization, decision-making,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093288
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000093288
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:665-670
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Youngha Cho
Author-X-Name-First: Youngha
Author-X-Name-Last: Cho
Title: The organizational boundaries of housebuilding firms in Korea
Abstract:
This paper investigates the boundary of activities undertaken by Korean
housebuilding firms. First, it examines the contractual relationships
between housebuilding firms and contractors, focusing on the existence of
quasi-firm type organization in the Korean housebuilding industry. Second,
it looks at how far Korean housebuilding firms diversify into other
activities outside the industry. Secondary data analysis and an interview
survey, carried out over the period between 1980 and 1995, were used. The
results show that Korean housebuilding firms depend on a traditional
contractual relationship with contractors but that quasi-firm type
organization is not established. On the other hand, housebuilding firms
diversify into both related and unrelated business. This diversification
could be a short-term 'survival strategy' under a regulated environment
rather than a long-term 'growth strategy'.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 671-680
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Organizational boundary, diversification, contracting, quasi-firm, housebuilding,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093297
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000093297
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:671-680
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Igal Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Title: Building evaluation methodology for setting maintenance priorities in hospital buildings
Abstract:
Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) is a common solution for the
maintenance of large complex facilities under tight economic conditions.
Effective implementation of CBM requires the development of performance
indicators for building components and systems. The objectives of the
proposed methodology are: (1) to monitor the condition of building
components, based on systematic performance scales; (2) to develop a
parameter that ensures clear detection of building elements that are in
failing condition; and (3) to provide a Key Performance Indicator, based
on a unified scale, for the comparison of the performance of different
buildings. Two rating scales are used: one for the individual components
(Pn) and a second for the entire building - the Building Performance
Indicator (BPI). The first scale combines criteria regarding the physical
state, performance, fitness for use, and preventive maintenance of various
building components. The second scale, the BPI, is a 100-point scale that
covers 10 of the building's main systems. The proposed methodology was
implemented in 17 public health care facilities in Israel. The survey
results show that the overall state of the facilities is that of
deterioration (BPI = 68.9). One building system, the communication and low
voltage system, was consistently found to be in poor condition (Pn =
39.4), four systems (exterior envelope, interior finishing, water and
waste-water, and HVAC) were in deteriorating condition (60d ≤ Pn
< 70), and five were in satisfactory or higher condition. Validity of
the methodology was tested by means of a survey executed by 14 trained
surveyors on the same facility. The variance of the results was relatively
slight.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 681-692
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Facility management, Key Performance Indicator, Life Cycle Cost, maintenance, performance, priority setting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000115562
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:681-692
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ammar Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: Ammar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Author-Name: John Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: Development of a company-level dynamic cash flow forecasting model (DYCAFF)
Abstract:
Current methods of predicting cash flow have a number of significant
weaknesses. At the project level, previous models are simple and
incorporate only some of the variables affecting cash flow. On the company
level, budgeting is performed on an overall basis (i.e. no account is
taken of individual contracts). This is mainly due to the fact that a
considerable amount of any year's turnover is contributed by contracts
that have yet to be won (or even known of) at the time of the budget. This
approach, in addition to being inaccurate, precludes the role of budgeting
as a tool for strategy evaluation. This paper presents a dynamic cash flow
forecasting model that would assist contractors to effectively plan and
manage the cash flow of individual projects and at a company level. The
advances made in the model can be represented by three of its main
features. First, the development of a more accurate and complex cash flow
calculation mechanism. Second, the development of an information system
that will help the contractor enter the data necessary for this mechanism.
Third, the development of a company-level model that is based on
individual projects, both known and unknown to the contractor at the time
of the forecast.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 693-705
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Financial planning, cash flow, management information systems, simulation, budgeting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000116561
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000116561
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:693-705
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mao Zhi
Author-X-Name-First: Mao
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhi
Author-Name: Goh Bee Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh Bee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hua
Author-Name: Shou Qing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shou Qing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Total factor productivity growth accounting in the construction industry of Singapore
Abstract:
Total factor productivity (TFP) determines long-term economic growth and
is a comprehensive industry-level productivity measure. This paper
proposes Jorgenson's method as an appropriate TFP measurement for the
construction industry. The method is less restrictive than the
conventional Chau's approach, as it does not impose the Hick Neutral
Technical Change assumption. Jorgenson's method is then applied to
estimate TFP growth in the construction industry of Singapore over
1984-1998. TFP growth is found down by 1.53% per annum over this period,
indicating that the performance of TFP in the construction industry lags
behind the rest of economy. TFP growth is also found to be fluctuating
over time and tends to move in tandem with the construction business
cycle. As a monitor of progress towards TFP achievement, factors
influencing TFP growth in the construction industry of Singapore over
1984-1997 are identified. Seven factors are found to be significantly
related to TFP growth. Among them, economies of scale, R&D by the
industry, investment allowance granted and labour unions are leading
contributors to TFP growth; while foreign worker, construction accidents
and pre-cast are major hampers. The general methodology presented in this
study can be applied to other countries. Future studies are required to
find appropriate indicators for factors unquantified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 707-718
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Total factor productivity, growth accounting, Singapore, translog production function, indicators,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056126
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:707-718
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Kang Su
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Kang
Author-X-Name-Last: Su
Author-Name: Chien-Yuan Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Chien-Yuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: Ming-Teh Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ming-Teh
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Taiwanese construction sector in a growing 'maturity' economy, 1964-1999
Abstract:
Using 12 input-output tables compiled in Taiwan between 1964 and 1999,
the role of the construction sector in the development of the Taiwanese
economy is examined and analysed in relationship to other economic
sectors. Analytical results reveal a two-stage inverted U-shaped
relationship between the share of construction in GNP versus GNP per
capita. The 'pull effect' of the Taiwanese construction sector is
approximately equal to that of the Japanese construction sector over time,
demonstrating that construction is more closely linked to the wider
economy in Taiwan than elsewhere, like Italy, the UK and the USA. The
'push effect' increases significantly over time, indicating that the M&R
(maintenance and repair) construction expenditures are growing in Taiwan.
Finally, the direct and total construction input from manufacturing
initially increased from 1969 and then declined after 1981, while the
input from the service sector has been steadily growing. These findings
confirm the increasing 'maturity' of the Taiwanese economy, a trend that
mirrors the economic development of other AICs like Italy, Japan, the UK
and the USA.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 719-728
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Input-output analysis, pull effect, push effect, Taiwanese construction sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000064082
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000064082
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. Perttula
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Perttula
Author-Name: J. Merjama
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Merjama
Author-Name: M. Kiurula
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kiurula
Author-Name: H. Laitinen
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Laitinen
Title: Accidents in materials handling at construction sites
Abstract:
The aim of this study is to examine those occupational accidents at
construction sites that are related to materials handling as compared with
all reportable occupational accidents at construction sites. The main
concern is to define the kinds of accidents that occur in materials
handling. The data were gathered from two sources: a large Finnish
construction company and the database of reports of serious occupational
accidents (Sammio). One third of all the reported accidents in the studied
construction company occurred during materials transfer and 36% of the
absenteeism days resulted from these accidents. Materials handling thus
caused more serious accidents than other work activities (t = -2.44, df =
351, p < 0.005). Minor accidents were mostly due to over-exertion
whereas serious accidents were mostly falling from a height and injuries
caused by falling and collapsing objects. The manual transfer of materials
caused most of the materials transfer accidents in the company and
mechanical transfer most of the serious materials handling accidents.
Over-exertion can, therefore, be decreased by reducing manual materials
handling. On the other hand, replacing manual transfers with mechanical
transfers means that there arises a risk of serious accidents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 729-736
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction industry, occupational accident, manual materials handling, mechanical materials handling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000087294
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000087294
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:729-736
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Wanous
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Wanous
Author-Name: Halim Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: Halim
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Author-Name: John Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: A neural network bid/no bid model: the case for contractors in Syria
Abstract:
Despite the crucial importance of the 'bid/no bid' decision in the
construction industry, it has been given little attention by researchers.
This paper describes the development and testing of a novel bid/no bid
model using the artificial neural network (ANN) technique. A
back-propagation network consisting of an input buffer with 18 input
nodes, two hidden layers and one output node was developed. This model is
based on the findings of a formal questionnaire through which key factors
that affect the 'bid/no bid' decision were identified and ranked according
to their importance to contractors operating in Syria. Data on 157
real-life bidding situations in Syria were used in training. The model was
tested on another 20 new projects. The model wrongly predicted the actual
bid/no bid decision only in two projects (10%) of the test sample. This
demonstrates a high accuracy of the proposed model and the viability of
neural network as a powerful tool for modelling the bid/no bid
decision-making process. The model offers a simple and easy-to-use tool to
help contractors consider the most influential bidding variables and to
improve the consistency of the bid/no bid decision-making process.
Although the model is based on data from the Syrian construction industry,
the methodology would suggest a much broader geographical applicability of
the ANN technique on bid/no bid decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 737-744
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: ANN, ANN bidding model, 'bid/no bid' criteria, construction, Syria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093323
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000093323
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:737-744
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Ivan Fung
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fung
Author-Name: Thomas Yeung
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeung
Author-Name: Karen Tung
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Tung
Title: Relationship between construction safety signs and symbols recognition and characteristics of construction personnel
Abstract:
This study investigates the relationship between the characteristics of
construction personnel and their degree of recognition of safety signs and
symbols. The safety signs and symbols are split into categories of
mandatory action signs, prohibition signs and warning symbols. Thirty
safety signs and symbols printed in colour and in Chinese were distributed
to 560 construction personnel working in eight different construction
sites in Hong Kong. The results drawn from 388 respondents indicate that
substantial problems exist in comprehending the signs and symbols that are
posted in construction sites. The percentages of construction personnel
who correctly identified mandatory action signs, prohibition signs and
warning symbols are 90%, 61% and 55% respectively. Drinking habits,
involvement in on-site safety promotion activities and their job positions
play a determinant role in their ability of comprehending these
construction safety symbols. These findings provide meaningful
implications to the industry in the design, selection and positioning of
safety symbols on site.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 745-753
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Safety, signs, symbols, recognition, construction, personnel,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056171
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Author-Name: Lucinda Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Lucinda
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Title: Research as a kaleidoscope on practice
Abstract:
Insufficient attention is paid to the relationship between research and
practice in construction. Those in industry want straightforward guidance,
but inhabit a complex socially constructed world. As a result, they are
often disappointed with the contribution of research, either because it is
too theoretical or because the simple solutions suggested do not work.
However, researchers have a valuable contribution to make owing to their
opportunity for reflection, and it is proposed that this can be viewed in
three different ways: as 'microscopes', 'telescopes' or 'periscopes' on
practice. Each of these views involves different epistemologies and
methodologies, but combining the three approaches in a Kaleidoscopic
Research Model will allow differences to thrive and synergies to be
sought. Only then will an effective dialogue develop where research
impacts solidly and continuously on the improvement of practice, while at
the same time practice constantly challenges and refreshes research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 755-766
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: research, practice, policy, Kaleidoscopic Model, research typology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000093314
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: The UK building education recruitment crisis: a call for action
Abstract:
Anecdotal evidence suggests that construction industry professions are
facing an unprecedented recruitment crisis. In recent years many
construction degree programmes have been withdrawn in response to falling
recruitment across most built environment disciplines, whilst at the same
time employers are reporting difficulties in recruiting a sufficient
graduate intake to satisfy demand. In order to assess the potential impact
of this decline, this paper presents an analysis of application and
admissions data to UK higher education courses over a six-year period. The
results reveal a significant decline in the number of graduates applying
for, and accepting, places on building degree courses during the analysis
period despite increased micro-economic activity. Curiously, the number of
women graduates has remained fairly constant over this period. Total
applications per annum were then modelled using a quadratic model
equation. With an R2 at 0.98 and a mean percentage error of appropriately
1%, the model was deemed to be a good predictor. Forecasts generated using
this model for the years 2001 to 2005 suggest a steady and continuous
decline in building degree applications. Industry output forecasts for the
same period show a steady growth which is likely to result in an increased
demand for graduates and hence, skills shortages. Reasons are postulated
as to why the image of the industry has led to such a steep decline in
graduate enrolments over the last few years. It is concluded that industry
practitioners, professional bodies and universities should embark upon a
collaborative, immediate and sustained promotional campaign if they are to
avoid severe recruitment difficulties in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 767-775
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Building degrees, graduates, demand, image, forecast,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000072146
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:767-775
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Cultural differences as an explanatory variable for adversarial attitudes in the construction industry: the case of Hong Kong
Abstract:
The procurement systems adopted in the construction industry are, by
their very nature, fragmented and divided into sub-organizations
distinguished by the various sentient stakeholders. The industry has come
to be regarded as adversarial and one in which cooperation is expected to
take place in a set of circumstances that are not wholly conducive. There
are many reasons why the industry has developed in this fragmented and
adversarial manner. This paper reviews some of these reasons and suggests
that a new approach for analysing the way the industry operates is
required. The authors argue that the perspective that should be adopted to
identify the determinants of cooperation should logically stem from the
individual level because cooperation is the result of individual efforts
and interactions with each other. Using social identity theory, the
authors advance a framework for analysing the cooperative behaviour of
project participants based on their cultural orientation. As far as the
authors are aware this is the first attempt within the construction
industry to use such an approach to explain how the industry operates and
this paper provides a review of how social identity theory can be used in
construction research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-785
Issue: 7
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Social identity theory, individualism, collectivism, inter-organizational cooperation, partnering, construction performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000108245
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:7:p:777-785
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Langford
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Title: Guest editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 795-796
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000174495
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000174495
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dave Langford
Author-X-Name-First: Dave
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Author-Name: Vicky Langford
Author-X-Name-First: Vicky
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Title: In Memoriam: Sydney Allendale Urry
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 797-798
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000174503
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000174503
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Langford
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Author-Name: Peter Robson
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Robson
Title: The representation of the professions in the cinema: the case of construction engineers and lawyers
Abstract:
This paper considers how popular culture, especially the cinema, depicts
two professions; namely, engineering and the law. It argues that despite
the large number of engineers working in the developed economies their
lives and their work are seldom portrayed in cinema. In contrast, the
legal profession is ubiquitous in its presence in film. The paper seeks to
use different forms of analysis, such as culturalism, Marxism,
structuralism, feminism and post-modernism when applied to film theory in
settings where engineers and lawyers are depicted. The paper makes a
distinction between the presentation of the work of engineers and lawyers
in 'real life' and cinematic form. The process of engineering in real life
is visible yet in cinematic terms it is ignored. In contrast, the legal
process is invisible in real life but has high dramatic content in the
cinema. When considering the products of the two professions, engineering
produces tangible products whilst law produces intangible yet highly
cerebral discourses. Yet, in the cinema, the engineering product is a
backcloth for other messages where in law the legal product provides a
backcloth for a central and dominant message about the legal process. The
conclusion is that engineers have to re-engineer themselves to be more
visible in society if they are to be regarded as cinematic heroes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 799-807
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Cinema, construction, engineers, lawyers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000174512
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:8:p:799-807
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Cheung Miu Fong
Author-X-Name-First: Cheung Miu
Author-X-Name-Last: Fong
Title: Leadership style and power relations in quantity surveying in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The realization of construction projects brings together a diversity of
individuals and organizations, variously forged into groups and teams, in
which power is important in shaping leader/follower behaviour. Quantity
surveyors, being primarily project cost consultants and
procurement/contractual advisers, are employed both by the clients' and
the contractors' organizations. This paper investigates aspects of
leadership style and power within quantity surveying in both clients' and
contractors' project 'teams'. The empirical work employed two
questionnaires, developed from established instruments and completed by
samples of team leaders and team members. Some differences emerged between
quantity surveyors working for consultants' organizations (acting on
behalf of the client) and those working for contractors' organizations.
The results confirm the relationship orientation of clients' consultant
quantity surveyors, who tend to adopt the supportive style of leadership.
The directive style of leadership showed negative impact. Power distance
was found to exceed that measured previously for Hong Kong and expert
power was the most important power source.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 809-818
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Culture, leadership, power, quantity surveying,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000174521
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Z. Fang
Author-X-Name-First: Z.
Author-X-Name-Last: Fang
Title: The power paradigm of project leadership
Abstract:
The concept of leadership inevitably concerns power structuring in which
power is distributed unevenly between individuals. Indeed, leadership
styles are closely associated with power distribution and its exercise.
Power, in its diverse guises, combines inter-personal and structural
elements and may be enhanced through political manoeuvring. This paper
develops a model of project leadership from a
behaviour-performance-outcome approach to construction projects and
concludes by stressing the motivational function of good leadership
through managing power gap(s) by means of power-sharing and
power-amassing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 819-829
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Leadership, motivation, power,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056199
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:8:p:819-829
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. A. Langford
Author-X-Name-First: D. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Author-Name: P. Kennedy
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kennedy
Author-Name: J. Conlin
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Conlin
Author-Name: N. McKenzie
Author-X-Name-First: N.
Author-X-Name-Last: McKenzie
Title: Comparison of construction costs on motorway projects using measure and value and alternative tendering initiative contractual arrangements
Abstract:
This paper reports the outcome of an investigation into the construction
costs in 11 motorway projects. The projects formed one length of road and
were of identical specification; five of the projects were undertaken by a
traditional design, tender, construct method, and five were undertaken by
a procurement system by which the contractor bid a lump sum for the work
and so absorbed potential risks and benefits from changes in prices of
resources or fluctuations in quantities of work necessary for the
completion of the work. One project was undertaken by a design and build
method. The results of the analysis indicate that in roadworks the
construction cost per kilometre of road is some 11% less expensive when
lump sum contracts are used. This benefit appears to be more pronounced in
the case of bridge structures incorporated into the motorway. Of greater
significance is the cost certainty that is afforded using the lump sum
methods. The research showed that lump sum projects were much more likely
to be completed within the budget. Finally the lump sum methods required
less management by the client organization and delivered more harmonious
working relationships between the client and contractor.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 831-840
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Procurement, tendering, construction costs, variations, value for money,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000056180
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:21:y:2003:i:8:p:831-840
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Newcombe
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Newcombe
Title: From client to project stakeholders: a stakeholder mapping approach
Abstract:
In contemporary management theory and practice the rise and role of
stakeholders as major players in organizational dynamics are widely
recognized and recorded. This pluralistic view of the identity of those
who have an investment and an interest in an organization extends well
beyond the traditional concept of shareholders to include employees,
suppliers, customers, trade unions, communities, etc. The concept of
stakeholders has been applied to projects in general but has not, to date,
been extended to the context of construction projects although it is
accepted that the traditional view of the client as a single entity does
not reflect the reality of stakeholder configurations for most projects.
Different stakeholders have different levels and types of investment and
interest in construction projects and can be seen as multiple clients or
customers for the project in which they are involved. This paper argues
that the concept of client, which has prevailed throughout the twentieth
century, is now obsolete and is being replaced by the reality of project
stakeholders. A novel application of the technique of stakeholder mapping
to a large construction project demonstrates the importance to project
managers of conducting the analysis of the power, predictability and
interest of key project stakeholders.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 841-848
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: Construction, projects, clients, stakeholders, stakeholder mapping, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000072137
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: David Yates
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Yates
Title: nDCAD: a virtual change agent for professions and procurement systems?
Abstract:
Prof. Urry was always forward looking in his view of the industry and
visionary in the way he drew ideas and concepts from other disciplines and
applied them to construction. Coming, as an aeronautical engineer, with no
baggage he was able to step back and look at how ideas and concepts could
be 're-applied' in construction and how the nature, structure and ethos of
the industry might be changed. The use of OR techniques from the 1950s
onward drove the industry forward with a great leap into a more structured
view of the construction process - current uses of IT in visualization and
animation have the potential to stimulate a similar great leap forward.
The driver for change identified here is multi-dimensional computer aided
design (nDCAD); this is a technology that not only animates conventional
3DCAD but invests attributes in its elements, such as cost, structural
design and even safety data. It is argued that nDCAD has the potential to
become the change agent that will drive the industry participants towards
relational contracting procurement systems and provide the basis for truly
collaborative design, construction and facilities management. In so doing,
the traditional roles played by professionals will be unfrozen, so
producing the context within which the professions can embrace a sea
change in the way that they are governed and sentient barriers can be
broken down.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 849-857
Issue: 8
Volume: 21
Year: 2003
Keywords: nDCAD, visualization, procurement systems, change agent, professions, contract strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000174530
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. A. Langford
Author-X-Name-First: D. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Title: Letter to the Editor
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-5
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186004
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000186004
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Frens Pries
Author-X-Name-First: Frens
Author-X-Name-Last: Pries
Author-Name: Andre Doree
Author-X-Name-First: Andre
Author-X-Name-Last: Doree
Author-Name: Bas Van Der Veen
Author-X-Name-First: Bas
Author-X-Name-Last: Van Der Veen
Author-Name: Ruben Vrijhoef
Author-X-Name-First: Ruben
Author-X-Name-Last: Vrijhoef
Title: The role of leaders' paradigm in construction industry change
Abstract:
As in other industries, firms in the construction industry need to become
more client- and market-oriented. In the last decade, several initiatives
have been taken to change the construction industry in that direction. The
changes, however, seem to be slower than other industries and less
forthcoming than projected. Old practices and patterns die hard.
Fundamental changes in orientation, strategy and strategy deployment
require shifts in the management paradigms (i.e. the 'frames of mind' that
steer individual and collective behaviour). Management is seen as a
crucial factor in these change processes, but can the new business be
created by old management paradigms? Can the leaders in the construction
industry shake off the old paradigms? An explorative quantitative study
shows that the mainstream paradigm of construction industry leaders today
is much as it was in the past: technology- and project-oriented. Acting
out of this paradigm, issues as social-organizational change and strategic
focus on the client - regarded as important for the industry - will
probably not be addressed properly. Change initiatives could gain in
success, when they create wider awareness of existence and persistence of
incumbent and prevailing paradigms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 7-10
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Construction industry, innovation, paradigms, barriers to change, construction management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186013
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Sohail
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Sohail
Author-Name: A. N. Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: A. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Title: Performance indicators for 'micro-projects' in developing countries
Abstract:
The majority of public works contracts undertaken in developing countries
have a total cost of less than US $15 000. They include the provision of
enhanced water and sanitation, access ways and pavements, small community
buildings and solid-waste related construction. These are termed
'micro-projects' and there is a general lack of information for such
projects. This paper describes the development and testing of 67
performance indicators for use on micro-projects. They include not only
general performance indicators but also indicators for
inter-organizational and socio-economic issues. These indicators are based
on data from over 800 micro-projects undertaken in developing countries.
For each indicator, a statement of why the indicator was selected, the key
sources of information and how to determine the indicator is provided.
Examples of the use of the indicators are also presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 11-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Urban infrastructure, performance indicators, developing countries, micro-contracts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186022
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sarel Lavy
Author-X-Name-First: Sarel
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavy
Author-Name: Igal Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Title: Integrated maintenance management of hospital buildings: a case study
Abstract:
Over the course of the past three decades, facilities management has
become the subject of an increasing number of research and development
efforts. The main objective of the present research was to examine the
efficiency of maintenance under alternative maintenance policies and
different sources of human resources. The research focused on the
maintenance of public hospital buildings in Israel, with the objective of
providing a model for multi-system facilities operating in a dynamic
environment. This paper describes the last three stages of the research:
the establishment of key performance indicators, the implementation of
these indicators in a case study in order to appraise them, and the
validation of the indicators. Four key performance indicators were
developed, as follows: the Building Performance Indicator (BPI), the
Manpower Sources Diagram (MSD), the Maintenance Efficiency Indicator (MEI)
and the Managerial Span of Control (MSC). This paper illustrates a case
study in which the four developed indicators were implemented in practice.
Characteristics of the case study hospital are presented and analysed.
Finally, the conclusions and recommendations drawn from the analysis of
the hospital case study are discussed, validated and deliberated upon. The
approach presented in this paper integrates performance, financial, human
resources and organizational aspects to facilitate an improved evaluation
method of the parameters affecting the execution of maintenance
activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-34
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Facilities management, key performance indicators, maintenance, outsourcing, performance-based building,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186031
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Osama Moselhi
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Moselhi
Author-Name: Ji Li
Author-X-Name-First: Ji
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Sabah Alkass
Author-X-Name-First: Sabah
Author-X-Name-Last: Alkass
Title: Web-based integrated project control system
Abstract:
This paper presents a system that supports project time and cost control
in an integrated manner. The system utilizes object-oriented modelling to
represent the process of project delivery. A set of control objects is
designed to map the process of project control. Eighteen key indicators
are considered to represent the resources utilized in each control object
and serve as sensors to highlight problematic areas associated with
unfavourable performance. A Three-Tier Client/Sever computer system is
designed to implement the developed system. Daily, weekly, monthly and/or
yearly, period-by-period, and cumulative to-date project performance
reports are generated to provide the status at project, control object and
resource levels. An example drawn from the literature is analysed to allow
for comparison with the results obtained using the proposed methodology.
The example also serves the purpose of demonstrating the use of the
proposed system and illustrating its essential features.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-46
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Project control, earned value, progress reporting, web-based system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186040
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohan Raj Manavazhi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan Raj
Author-X-Name-Last: Manavazhi
Title: Assessment of the propensity for revisions in design projects through the dichotomous characterization of designer effort
Abstract:
This paper defines the concept of the propensity of a design project to
encounter rework and discusses its significance within the context of the
planning and estimation functions. A formalism for the representation of
the concept of rework propensity that could be used in planning and
estimation is developed. The representation is facilitated by embodying
the notions of magnitude of designer effort and the corresponding
probability of occurrence of a sequence of events in a design project that
entails the use of a specific level of designer effort. The paper then
discusses the mathematical theory that underpins the practical and
simplified procedure proposed by this research for the estimation of the
propensity of a project to encounter rework. A detailed procedure for the
estimation of rework propensity involving the use of an approximated k-Rk
(AKR) curve is presented. A sample application that demonstrates the use
of the simplified procedure is also presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 47-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Rework propensity, design rework, design revisions, design process, design planning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186059
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:1:p:47-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhen Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Zhen
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Qiping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Qiping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Wei Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Title: An empirical model for decision-making on ISO 14000 acceptance in the Shanghai construction industry
Abstract:
A remarkable disagreement/deviation between the rate of ISO 14001
registration and the rate of implementation of environmental impact
assessment in the Chinese construction industry indicates that the
contractors there might not have really applied environmental management
(EM) in construction projects. This hypothesis has been tested in this
paper by a mail questionnaire survey conducted to 72 main contractors in
Shanghai, mainland China. The survey results indicate that there are five
classes of factors influencing the acceptability of the ISO 14000 series
of EM standards. Reasons why approximately 81% of contractors surveyed are
indifferent to the ISO 14000 series are then analysed based on the
critical classes. A linear discriminant model for decision-making for
construction companies on whether to accept the ISO 14000 series is
developed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-73
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: ISO 14000 series, environmental management system, environmental impact assessment, empirical model, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186068
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Rodney Turner
Author-X-Name-First: J. Rodney
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Title: Farsighted project contract management: incomplete in its entirety
Abstract:
The purpose of project organization is to create a cooperative
environment. Contracts are the method by which the owner creates a project
organization to employ resources to achieve their development objectives.
Contracts should aim to produce a cooperative organization, aligning the
contractors' objectives with the owners. A three-dimensional vector
(reward, risk, safeguard), adapted from the Transaction Cost Economics
literature, is used to analyse the efficacy of contract types to do this.
Contracts are also unavoidably incomplete. They need to respond to
unforeseen circumstance. A four-dimensional vector (incentive intensity,
adaptiveness, reliance on monitoring and control, reliance on the courts),
also from the Transaction Costs Economics literature, is used to analyse
the governance efficacy of contract types. The results are used to develop
a contract selection strategy, depending on whether the uncertainty is
controlled by the client or the contractor, the project is simple or
complex, and the uncertainty is in the project's product, method of
delivery or both.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 75-83
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Contract selection, forms of contract, governance, incentivization, project organization, transaction costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186077
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhenfeng Pan
Author-X-Name-First: Zhenfeng
Author-X-Name-Last: Pan
Title: Commercial housing ownership predictors in urban China: an analysis of a national survey
Abstract:
China's housing reform has recently attracted notable academic interest
due to the reform's crucial role in China's overall economic viability.
Using nationally representative data, this paper examines predictors for
ownership of commercial housing in urban China. This study confirms that
the political and social biases associated with the old housing system
have emerged in the process of commercial housing distribution. The
housing reform so far has failed to achieve some of the most important
goals of the commercialization of the housing market - to eliminate and
remedy the corruption and the inefficiency of housing provision that were
prevalent in the old housing system. Finally the outlook of the housing
market in urban China is also discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 85-91
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Housing tenure choice, Chinese housing reform, China housing, urban housing in China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186086
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bill Dunn
Author-X-Name-First: Bill
Author-X-Name-Last: Dunn
Title: The regionalization of international contracting and its implications for models of construction spending
Abstract:
This paper documents an increasing regionalization of overseas
contracting during the 1980s and 1990s. This involved a greater share
within richer countries, particularly of intra-European work. This
evidence challenges suggestions that middle-income countries are
particularly appropriate destinations of overseas investment by developed
country contractors. The paper therefore re-evaluates the model underlying
such predictions, which relates construction spending to economic
development. Reconsidering its empirical basis, it argues that the
association between overall levels of per capita income and levels of
construction spending is too weak to be of practical utility. It stresses
the possibility of different routes to economic development and that this
often remained an uncertain process and one within which levels of
construction output varied widely. It therefore concludes that research
should be informed by a broader political economy approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 93-100
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: International contracting, regionalization, economic development, construction spending,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186095
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:1:p:93-100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Predicting the probability of winning sealed bid auctions: the effects of outliers on bidding models
Abstract:
This paper is concerned with the effect of outliers on predictions of the
probability of tendering the lowest bid in sealed bid auctions. Four of
the leading models are tested relative to the equal probability model by
an empirical analysis of three large samples of real construction contract
bidding data via all-in (in-sample), one-out and one-on (out-of-sample)
frames. Outliers are removed in a sequence of cut-off values proportional
to the standard deviation of bids for each auction. A form of logscore is
used to measure the ability to predict the probability of each bidder
being the lowest. The results show that, although statistically
significant in some conditions, all the models produce rather poor
predictions in both one-out and one-on mode, with the effects of outliers
being generally small.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 101-109
Issue: 1
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Bidding models, bidding theory, construction contracts, empirical tests, predicted probability, probability of lowest bid, sealed bid auctions, tendering theory, logscore test, outliers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000186103
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:1:p:101-109
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vernon Ireland
Author-X-Name-First: Vernon
Author-X-Name-Last: Ireland
Title: Improving staff performance
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 121-121
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201312
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:121-121
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Dong-Eun Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Dong-Eun
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Title: Service quality performance of design/build contractors using quality function deployment
Abstract:
This note describes a model that measures the quality of the project
service of a D/B firm using quality function deployment (QFD). This model
is an add-on to a model developed previously by the authors to measure the
corporate service quality performance of D/B firms. The project service
quality performance model makes use of 10 service quality factors and
their relative weights (transferred from the corporate service quality
performance model), three components of quality management systems in
place in D/B projects (ranked by senior managers in D/B firms) and the
relationships between service quality factors and quality system
requirements (established by a professional quality system assessor). It
uses QFD to calculate a quality performance index. The combined corporate
and project service quality performance index can be used by D/B firms to
benchmark themselves against their competitors or to monitor their own
performance. It can also be used by owners to rank D/B firms relative to
their service quality performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 123-127
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Project service quality, design/build construction, quality function deployment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201321
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:123-127
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Natasha Haynes
Author-X-Name-First: Natasha
Author-X-Name-Last: Haynes
Author-Name: Peter Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Title: Psychological adjustment and coping among construction project managers
Abstract:
Construction project managers work under conditions of uncertainty and
high risk, and this can contribute to an excessive level of work-related
stress being experienced. To date, there has been limited research that
has examined how project managers cope with work-related stress. This
paper investigates whether coping and affect (both negative and positive)
influence adjustment (anxiety, depression and stress) among project
managers. A sample of 100 male project managers from Australian
contracting organizations completed a questionnaire that measured coping
strategies, affect state and potential stressors. Hierarchical regression
analyses demonstrated that specific work-related characteristics such as
work experience, project size, age and level of education influenced the
psychological adjustment of the project managers sampled. Further, those
who engaged in a more problem-focused style of coping, such as active
coping were found to be better adjusted than those who engaged in more
emotion-focused styles of coping such as cognitive avoidance coping,
social coping, accepting responsibility and self-controlling coping. In
addition, it was revealed that increased adjustment of project managers
was associated with positive affect. It is concluded that the
psychological adjustment of project managers is influenced by specific
work-related characteristics, the types of coping strategies they use and
their affect state.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-140
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Adjustment, anxiety, depression, stress, coping, project managers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201330
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Francis Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Hans Bjornsson
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Bjornsson
Author-Name: Samuel Chiu
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiu
Title: Valuing a price cap contract for material procurement as a real option
Abstract:
This paper uses real option methodology to compare the cost of a
long-term contract with a price cap to that of spot purchases in
construction material procurement. In construction, material procurements
are usually short-term, project-based and subject to high price
volatility. These characteristics and the competitive nature of the
industry lower the profit margin of contractors. We have observed that
contractors purchase a stable amount of commodity materials such as
concrete, structural steel and lumber year after year. For contractors,
the price cap reduces the price volatility of materials without their
being obliged to purchase a certain quantity; for suppliers, the price-cap
contracts give them steady demand and a bigger market share. We evaluate
this price-cap contract as a real option and find the contractor's optimal
ordering policy. When materials are not frequently traded, we model price
processes by using related market information and then evaluate the
idiosyncratic uncertainties in a risk-neutral setting. Our methodology
does not require market completeness and incorporates some of the results
of the latest research in finance such as correlation pricing, option
pricing and zero level pricing, as well as Monte Carlo simulation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 141-150
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Material procurement, real option, pricing, ordering policy, supply chain,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201349
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andy Steele
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Steele
Author-Name: Dianne Sodhi
Author-X-Name-First: Dianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Sodhi
Title: Black and minority ethnic contractors and consultants and UK housing associations' contracting power
Abstract:
Housing associations are the main providers of social housing within the
UK and a major force in area regeneration initiatives. They also have a
pivotal role to play in promoting equality of opportunity since a large
proportion of their clients are from black and minority ethnic (BME)
communities. However, few housing associations have recognized the
potential of their purchasing power in terms of investment in construction
and maintenance work in promoting equality or the business benefits of
doing so. This paper presents the research findings of a study of housing
associations' contracting practices in London. The study aimed to
highlight and document current practices in the employment of BME
contractors and consultants and identify the equal opportunity issues
associated with their engagement. The findings suggest that there is a
general lack of appreciation among housing associations of the importance
of employing BME contractors and consultants from both an equal
opportunity and a business perspective. In view of the Race Relations
(Amendment) Act 2000 and government guidance on equal opportunities, the
housing association sector has still to fully recognize its influential
role in this area.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 151-157
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Equality, construction, housing, ethnic and minorities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201358
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:151-157
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tarcisio Saurin
Author-X-Name-First: Tarcisio
Author-X-Name-Last: Saurin
Author-Name: Carlos Formoso
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos
Author-X-Name-Last: Formoso
Author-Name: Lia Guimaraes
Author-X-Name-First: Lia
Author-X-Name-Last: Guimaraes
Title: Safety and production: an integrated planning and control model
Abstract:
A safety planning and control model (SPC) has been integrated into the
production planning and control process. The model integrates safety into
three hierarchical levels of production control. Safety long-term planning
starts with the preliminary hazard analysis (PHA) of construction
processes. These plans are detailed and updated at both medium- and
short-term planning levels. The main performance measure adopted for
safety evaluation at the short-term level is the Percentage of Safe Work
Packages (PSW). It monitors the degree in which work packages are safely
carried out. The model also proposes a participatory mechanism that allows
workers to point out existing risks as well as to evaluate risk controls.
This paper discusses two empirical studies in which the model was
implemented in industrial construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 159-169
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Safety, production planning and control, performance measurement, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201367
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Heesom
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Heesom
Author-Name: Lamine Mahdjoubi
Author-X-Name-First: Lamine
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahdjoubi
Title: Trends of 4D CAD applications for construction planning
Abstract:
Since the early 1990s, there has been a growing interest in
four-dimensional computer aided design (4D CAD) for construction project
planning. Commercial 4D CAD applications are becoming more accessible and
the use of this technology allows the construction planner to produce more
rigorous schedules. A review of the technical competencies of these
packages highlights that most of the commercially available packages
concentrate on the use of 4D CAD simulations for aesthetic visualization
purposes. Very few packages offer the ability to carry out analytical
tasks on the developed simulation and this is often left to the
interpretation of the user. A thorough appraisal of emerging research
developments in 4D planning highlights that this technology is employed
for various applications; however, the amount of detail required in a 4D
simulation is still ambiguous. A model is proposed to determine the
attributes required for use with each of the various applications of 4D
CAD simulations. Finally, various lines of future research are
highlighted, including the need for improved use of data exchange
standards and the automation of linking the construction tasks to the 3D
CAD model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 171-182
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Visualization, construction planning, simulation, four-dimensional CAD,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201376
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:171-182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Takayuki Minato
Author-X-Name-First: Takayuki
Author-X-Name-Last: Minato
Title: Representing causal mechanism of defective designs: exploration through case studies
Abstract:
To learn lessons from past defective designs, it is best to analyse
multiple past defect events using a common classification framework. This
may reveal patterns of cause and effect that are rarely evident in
single-case investigations. This paper aims to explore the causal
mechanism of defective design by means of a case-studies approach. By
analysing 119 defect cases from selected 101 projects, the paper presents
which active failures and influencing factors that are recurrently
responsible for the defective designs. More importantly, with the use of
correspondence analysis it reveals five patterns of failure pathways that
explain how and why defective design can occur. In the patterns, defective
designs are classified into team, major, and minor errors, in which team
and major errors are relatively influenced more by organizational factors,
whereas minor errors by workplace factors. Countermeasures are recommended
to manage the recurrent defective designs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-192
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Active failures, correspondence analysis, defective design, defences failures, human error, influencing factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201385
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000201385
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:183-192
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Geoffrey Briscoe
Author-X-Name-First: Geoffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Briscoe
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Sarah Millett
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Millett
Author-Name: Richard Neale
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Neale
Title: Client-led strategies for construction supply chain improvement
Abstract:
Recent research into the UK construction industry has identified various
drivers for change and prominent among these is the need for better client
leadership. The aim of this research was to examine the role of the client
in securing a greater degree of supply chain integration. It used three
diverse case studies to examine the association between clients, the
environmental factors that affect their businesses, the procurement
decisions made and the level of supply chain integration that can be
achieved. The results of this research provide independent empirical
support for some of the recommendations of the recently released
Accelerating Change report and some practical amplification. Clients are
shown to be key drivers of performance improvement and innovation and are
the most significant factor in achieving integration in the supply chain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 193-201
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Clients, environment, procurement, supply chain and integration,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201394
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000201394
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:193-201
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. A. D. A. J. Perera
Author-X-Name-First: A. A. D. A. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Perera
Author-Name: K. Imriyas
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Imriyas
Title: An integrated construction project cost information system using MS Access™ and MS Project™
Abstract:
The integration of time and cost management of construction projects has
been recognized as the most effective way for close management. However,
it has not been effectively used due to the presence of a large quantity
of data with many complex interrelationships. Advanced software using
current state-of-the-art could be developed to solve this problem.
Nevertheless, construction organizations, especially those of small to
medium size, cannot afford to procure such software due to the high cost
involved in development and training. Probably, the maximum capability of
small to medium size contractors is to purchase general applications -
spreadsheet, database, etc. - and general time planning software. Thus, a
computer solution for an existing problem using general software will have
a higher potential for application. In this context, research was
undertaken to establish the feasibility of the use of MS Access™
and MS Project™ to provide an integrated time and cost management
information system encompassing estimating, scheduling, cost control,
resource monitoring and costing, and financial control. First, through a
literature review, documentary search in contractor organizations and
interviews of professionals, the requirements of such a system were
identified. Second, detail procedures were established by use of standard
system design procedures. Third, a data modelling was developed and a
relational database was established with data transfer mechanism between
database and time planning software. The research proved that an effective
integrated project cost management system could be developed using MS
Project™ and MS Access™ as an economical solution for small
to medium construction organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 203-211
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Integrated cost management, DBMS, time planning software, management information system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201402
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:203-211
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Qiping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Qiping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Jacky Chung
Author-X-Name-First: Jacky
Author-X-Name-Last: Chung
Author-Name: Pui-Yee Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Pui-Yee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: A framework for identification and representation of client requirements in the briefing process
Abstract:
The briefing process is critical to the successful delivery of
construction projects. Although a number of briefing guides have been
developed, attempting to address the problems of briefing, they are often
criticized as being too general and implicit. This paper describes a
structured framework for identifying and representing client requirements
(CRs) in the briefing process. It integrates the value management (VM)
methodology with function analysis system technique (FAST) and functional
performance specification (FPS) to enable the client organization and
project team to systematically identify, clarify and clearly represent CRs
in the briefing process. It comprises four interrelated phases:
preparation, information, analysis and evaluation. This paper starts with
a critical review of previous work in briefing and function analysis,
followed by an introduction to the research methodology and detailed
illustration of the proposed framework. The use of this framework can
facilitate and lead to systematic identification and clarification of
client requirements and the formation of a more precise and explicit
representation of these requirements. The limitations of the approach are
also discussed in the paper.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 213-221
Issue: 2
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Briefing, value management, client requirements, function analysis, functional performance specification,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000201411
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:2:p:213-221
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Title: Production arrangements by US building and non-building contractors: an update
Abstract:
The paper presents the results of the first phase of a long-term study
that addresses the determinants of the production arrangements by US
building (commercial and residential construction) and non-building
contractors (transportation, environmental and industrial construction).
Empirical and census data are used to understand the subcontracting and
self-performance practice of the considered contractors. The significant
differences in their production arrangements are explained in terms of
range of technological requirements and their relative importance within
undertaken projects. Building contractors tend to subcontract much of
their production, because of the relatively wider range of technological
inputs of building projects and liability concerns. On the contrary,
non-building contractors self-perform much of their production, because of
the relatively narrower range of technological inputs of their projects
and higher fixed investments in dedicated assets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 231-235
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: US construction industry, subcontracting, self-performance, building contractors, non-building contractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649083
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:231-235
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shou Qing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shou Qing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Muhammad Yousuf Aguria
Author-X-Name-First: Muhammad Yousuf
Author-X-Name-Last: Aguria
Title: Risk management framework for construction projects in developing countries
Abstract:
It is important to manage the multifaceted risks associated with
international construction projects, in particular in developing
countries, not only to secure work but also to make profit. This research
seeks to identify and evaluate these risks and their effective mitigation
measures and to develop a risk management framework which the
international investors/developers/contractors can adopt when contracting
construction work in developing countries. A survey was conducted and
twenty-eight critical risks were identified, categorized into three
(country, market and project) hierarchical levels and their criticality
evaluated and ranked. For each of the identified risks, practical
mitigation measures have also been proposed and evaluated. Almost all
mitigation measures have been perceived by the survey respondents as
effective. A risk model, named Alien Eyes' Risk Model, which shows the
hierarchical levels of the risks and the influence relationship among the
risks, is also proposed. Based on the findings, a qualitative risk
mitigation framework was finally proposed which will benefit the risk
management of construction project in developing countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-252
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Risk management, risk identification, risk mitigation, risk model, international construction project, developing countries,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000124689
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:237-252
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: H. Giritli
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Giritli
Author-Name: G. Topcu Oraz
Author-X-Name-First: G. Topcu
Author-X-Name-Last: Oraz
Title: Leadership styles: some evidence from the Turkish construction industry
Abstract:
The construction industry provides an interesting research alternative to
other sectors because of its unique characteristics. For this reason, this
paper aims to explore and compare the leadership styles of managerial
personnel in the construction industry. The study focuses on the empirical
evaluations of the similarities and differences in leadership styles of
construction professionals. A managerial-style questionnaire is developed
based on the review of relevant literature. Questionnaire data obtained
from 43 respondents show that the authoritative style is more frequently
performed than all other styles. Results also indicate differences in
terms of gender and managerial hierarchy. Implications of the results are
discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 253-262
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Leadership, construction industry, Turkey,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001630993
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:253-262
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Raymond Aoieong
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Aoieong
Author-Name: Syed Ahmed
Author-X-Name-First: Syed
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmed
Title: The use of Process Cost Model (PCM) for measuring quality costs of construction projects: model testing
Abstract:
A 'Process Cost Model (PCM)' approach has been proposed previously
(Aoieong et al., 2002) for measuring the quality costs of construction
projects. The PCM is proposed because the traditional models on PAF
(prevention, appraisal and failure) quality costs have been found to be
unsuitable for the construction industry, although they may be successful
in the manufacturing industry. The focus of PCM, unlike PAF model, is no
longer on capturing the total quality costs of an entire project but the
quality costs of a particular process. It is simple and more feasible to
be applied in construction projects and is in line with the 'process
approach' and 'continual improvement' concepts of the latest (year 2000)
version of the ISO 9000 quality management system, which is a step closer
to Total Quality Management (Aoieong and Tang, 2002). The current paper
describes two case studies using the PCM to capture quality costs on two
construction projects. The case studies reveal that the PCM is feasible,
practicable and easy to use. It is also possible to use the model to
achieve 'continual improvement' by referencing the quality costs of a
particular construction process. The Process Cost Model (PCM) is therefore
a better model than the traditional PAF model for application in the
construction industry for measuring quality costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 263-275
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Process cost model, PCM, PAF, quality, costs, construction, processes, TQM, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000064091
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:263-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Jiang Hongbin
Author-X-Name-First: Jiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hongbin
Title: Estimation of international construction performance: analysis at the country level
Abstract:
The measurement or estimation of the degree of internationalization of
multinational corporations (MNCs) remains lacking although many studies
have been completed on MNCs in the construction industry. Dunning's
Eclectic Paradigm suggests that the determinants of internationalization
depends on the ownership (O), locational (L) and internalization (I)
advantages of a firm. Another important factor relates to the involvement
of a firm among specialized fields in the construction industry, i.e. the
specialty (S) advantages. This paper proposes the OLI+S model for
measuring/estimating the internationalization process of construction
MNCs, according to nationalities, using the following ratios: O-IRTR,
L-IBD, I-OMS and S-ISF. Major players in the international construction
market were analysed using these ratios. The OLI+S model shows that
construction MNCs from different nationalities demonstrated different
patterns in the internationalization process depending on their business
strategies, indigenous market situations, historical factors, etc. among
others.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 277-289
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: internationalization, construction, ownership, locational, internalization, specialty, nationalities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000089607
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:277-289
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Author-Name: Manish Gangwar
Author-X-Name-First: Manish
Author-X-Name-Last: Gangwar
Title: The relationship between changes in equipment technology and wages in the US construction industry
Abstract:
The US construction industry has witnessed a drop in real wages since
1970. The decline in real wages may be attributed to a combination of
socio-economic factors like migrant labourers, fringe benefits, safety
procedures, union membership and worker skills. Another factor that may be
impacting construction real wages is technological changes over the past
couple of decades, including technological changes in construction
equipment. This paper examines the relationship between changes in
equipment technology and changes in construction wages with the help of
five factors of equipment technology change: control, energy, ergonomics,
functionality and information processing. Furthermore, data from the US
Bureau of Labor Statistics' Current Population Survey is used to examine
the effects of computer usage on wages among US hourly workers in
construction. The research findings show significant relations exist
between changes in equipment control, functionality and information
processing with wages among non-supervisory workers. Another finding
indicated that although non-supervisory construction workers who use
computers at work earn higher hourly wages, there was no added wage
benefit after controlling for the effects of experience, education and
age.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 291-301
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Construction, labour, equipment technology, wages, computer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000116543
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:291-301
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Wild
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wild
Title: Re-interpreting the Building Industry Communications Research Project
Abstract:
The archives of the Building Industry Communications Research Project
(BICRP) 1963-66 are reviewed. Established by important construction
interests, this project explored problems of co-ordination in UK
construction. The research was undertaken by the Tavistock Institute of
Human Relations. The archives record both an evolving appreciation of
construction and the conflicts within the Communications Research
Committee, which oversaw the research and represented construction and its
dominant client, the public sector. The changing outer context and
shifting interpretation of the researchers destabilized the BICRP. It
became caught up in the turbulence of its environment, de-stabilizing the
consensus which had led to the project. Schon's concept of the Situation,
and systems ideas of under-boundedness and under-organization, underpin
the re-interpretation and establish the current relevance of the BICRP.
This exemplifies the recurring, institutional difficulties of UK
construction. A suggestion for further inquiry is made including
cross-cultural comparisons around themes of uncertainty and information.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 303-310
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Communications research, reinterpretation, situation, uncertainty, under-boundedness,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000103263
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000103263
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:303-310
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kazunobu Minami
Author-X-Name-First: Kazunobu
Author-X-Name-Last: Minami
Title: Whole life appraisal of the repair and improvement work costs of Post Office buildings in Japan
Abstract:
A complete enumerative study was made of the repair and improvement work
costs of the 1255 general sorting post offices throughout Japan in 2000.
This paper analyses the 2000 expenditure figures from both the national
enumerative survey and the survey of the five post offices being monitored
for twenty years after their completion. The results show that the average
annual repair work cost is 665 yen per square metre, and the average
annual improvement work cost is 4231 yen per square metre, which total an
average annual cost of 4896 yen per square metre. The repair and
improvement work cost reaches an accumulated total of around 50 000 yen
per square metre 20 years after a building has been completed, and an
accumulated total of around 250 000 yen per square metre 50 years after
completion. After analysing the relationship between the rebuilding cycle,
and rebuilding, repair and improvement costs, by changing the present
rebuilding at age 40 to building additions at age 40 and rebuilding at age
60, it became apparent that we could expect a significant reduction in
facilities investment costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 311-318
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Whole life cost, post office, investment, repair, improvement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000108254
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000108254
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:311-318
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Sai-On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai-On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Measuring construction project participant satisfaction
Abstract:
Construction projects involve numerous stakeholders, and their
satisfaction could directly influence the performance of subsequent
projects. Driven by a desire to improve project success, the critical
satisfaction factors pertinent to the construction management process
should be identified. In this paper, an overall study regarding the
behavioural management mechanisms amongst project participants is
presented. Eleven behavioural management mechanisms are identified and 15
hypotheses are established for this study. The concepts of satisfaction,
project goals, various management mechanisms and their interrelationships
are discussed and investigated in relation to construction projects. The
results indicate that management mechanisms rather than particular project
goal could directly affect the participant satisfaction.
Cooperation/participation, task/team conflict and goal commitment are the
critical factors influencing the final outcome (satisfaction) in the
complicated management process. Moreover, conflict on the task amongst the
participants is the moderation mechanisms for the relationship between
goal commitment and participant satisfaction. There is a significantly
positive relationship between commitment and satisfaction in construction
project management, while high level of conflict is stimulated in the goal
setting process amongst the participants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 319-331
Issue: 3
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Project management, participant satisfaction, conflict, commitment, co-operation/participation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190320000000000
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:3:p:319-331
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. Y. Yiu
Author-X-Name-First: C. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yiu
Author-Name: X. H. Lu
Author-X-Name-First: X. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: M. Y. Leung
Author-X-Name-First: M. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: W. X. Jin
Author-X-Name-First: W. X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jin
Title: A longitudinal analysis on the relationship between construction output and GDP in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The relationship between construction output and economic growth has been
well discussed by construction economists. Most of the previous studies
found a positive correlation between gross domestic product (GDP) per
capita and various measures of construction output. However,
cross-sectional analysis was commonly adopted but longitudinal analysis
has been called upon. Furthermore, recent research argued that non-linear
relationship between GDP and construction output exists because of
different stages of economic development in different countries. They
explained the phenomenon by means of the change of the growth rates of
construction output at different stages of economic development, but the
argument has not yet been rigorously tested. With the availability of long
time-series of data of Hong Kong construction industry, this paper
attempts to test longitudinally the relationship between the real growth
rate of construction output and the real growth rate of GDP. It was found
that the growth rate of GDP led that of construction output, and as the
growth rate of GDP increased, the growth rate of construction output was
marginally diminishing. It agrees with the proposition that construction
industry is relatively inefficient in productivity improvement and the
accumulation of capital investment results in a marginally diminishing
growth of construction output.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 339-345
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Hong Kong construction industry, construction growth, GDP growth, economic development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000176465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:339-345
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lam Yow Thim
Author-X-Name-First: Lam Yow
Author-X-Name-Last: Thim
Author-Name: Chen Zonggui
Author-X-Name-First: Chen
Author-X-Name-Last: Zonggui
Title: The development of the construction legal system in China
Abstract:
China has been developing at an amazing speed since it carried out reform
and open-door policy in 1978. Construction industry is playing a leading
role in the rapid Chinese economic development. At the same time, China
has also worked hard to encourage overseas investors to expand their
investment in the construction industry. With its development over the
years, China has established a legal system for governing construction
activities. To participate in such a major market in the world, it is
important to understand the legal system governing it and the impact of
China's joining the World Trade Organization. The Chinese construction
laws and practice are still very different from the international norm. If
foreign participants are to make a success out of doing business in China,
they must understand the Chinese way of life. Particularly, they must
prepare to adapt to an environment where new rules are created as
circumstances and situations change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 347-356
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Construction laws, legal system, construction industry, China, foreign investment, foreign designers and contractors, World Trade Organization (WTO),
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000122177
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Author-Name: William Sher
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Sher
Author-Name: Antony Thorpe
Author-X-Name-First: Antony
Author-X-Name-Last: Thorpe
Author-Name: Andrew Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Title: A typology for clients' multi-project environments
Abstract:
Construction management research and practice is dominated by a single
project paradigm. This does not reflect the true nature of many
construction clients who have large multi-project portfolios. Traditional
single project management strategies are usually adopted for managing such
portfolios - with limited success. The literature suggests that
programmes, within portfolios, require different forms of management in
order to optimize project delivery. In order to better understand these
portfolios and thereby allow the exploration of new forms of management, a
typology has been developed mapping out the various features of client's
construction portfolios. The resultant typology provides a simple method
for identifying the programme composition of a portfolio, highlighting the
expected features of each programme type, and thereby directing management
attention to the main aspects of each programme that can be optimized for
efficiency. Six cases of client's construction project portfolios were
studied using a highly structured, replication logic, case study
methodology. A typology of clients' multi-project environments was
developed and validated through literal and theoretical replication
between cases. Three main types emerged as descriptive of programmes
within client's construction portfolios: bounded programmes, target
programmes and rolling programmes. The distinctive features of each type
suggest that programme-specific approaches may be necessary for the
successful delivery of projects within client's construction portfolios.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 357-371
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Case studies, multi-projects, portfolio, programmes, typology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649047
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190310001649047
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:357-371
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Author-Name: Charles Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Title: Valuation techniques for infrastructure investment decisions
Abstract:
Public infrastructure owners are increasingly soliciting BOT arrangements
to deliver needed infrastructure facilities. Such arrangements potentially
preserve a public owner's capital capacity for allocation to projects that
cannot support themselves by essentially 'pulling' projects from the
private sector. Before soliciting these arrangements, however, owners
should independently evaluate a project's economic viability to fully
appraise the issues and variables involved. Unfortunately, project
analysts often apply evaluation methods without regard for their
assumptions and limitations. A case study of a toll road project in the
USA provides the basis for examining the assumptions behind both
traditional and option valuation models. The case demonstrates the use of
an option pricing model to augment traditional project evaluation by
capturing strategic considerations, in this case the value of project
deferment. The presentation illustrates that the selection of a valuation
model depends critically upon the characteristics of a project's variables
and that informed judgment remains an integral part of the decision-making
process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 373-383
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Valuation techniques, infrastructure investments, real options, risk neutrality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649010
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190310001649010
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:373-383
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: A. S. Y. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: A. S. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Title: The locus of control: a determinant of opportunistic behaviour in construction health and safety
Abstract:
Current research and practice in the field of risk management focus
almost exclusively on the downside of risk, meaning that many
opportunities for improved performance go unmissed. There is substantial
evidence that opportunities demand a different management approach to
problems and, that there is need to better understand this process.
However, our understanding of opportunism has been hindered by the absence
of research into the main forces that impede and drive opportunistic
behaviour. This paper explores these forces and investigates one in
particular - the locus of control (self perceived influence over
decision-making). This investigation is conducted in a health and safety
context because this is an area of particularly poor performance in the
construction industry, where the locus of control is especially relevant.
The paper concludes that the overall locus of control is high in relation
to health and safety issues. However, there is considerable discrepancy in
perceived levels of influence between different occupational, gender and
ethnic groups, which need to be addressed if the industry is to improve
its performance in this area.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 385-394
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Opportunity management, risk management, behaviour, locus of control, empowerment, health and safety, gender, culture, discrimination,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000239997
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000239997
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:385-394
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Y. L. Chew
Author-X-Name-First: M. Y. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chew
Author-Name: S. S. Tan
Author-X-Name-First: S. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: A multivariate approach to maintenance prediction of wet areas
Abstract:
A regression model to predict the maintainability of wet areas was
developed. The model was derived from comprehensive condition surveys,
interviews with professionals and defect analysis of 96 buildings. The
study showed that plumbing selection, access for fitting maintenance,
material maintainability, usage and construction quality are the most
significant parameters associated with the maintainability of wet areas.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 395-407
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Maintainability, wet area, multiple regression analysis, maintenance prediction model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000124670
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000124670
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:395-407
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Jasmine Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Jasmine
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Title: Career, family and work environment determinants of organizational commitment among women in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
A survey of women in the Australian construction industry was undertaken
to examine the relationship between career, family and work environment
variables on women's organizational commitment. Questionnaires were
distributed to three hundred women in construction occupations and 109
completed and usable questionnaires were returned. Career choice
commitment, satisfaction with career progression, job involvement,
supervisory support and perception of the organizational diversity climate
were significantly correlated with respondents' organizational commitment.
No demographic or family variables were correlated with organizational
commitment. Neither did organizational commitment differ significantly
between women with dependent children and childless women or women with
non-dependent children. It is concluded that construction firms aiming to
improve organizational commitment among female employees should ensure
women have access to career development opportunities and ensure just
processes are used in allocating organizational rewards. Construction
firms are also recommended to implement diversity initiatives and educate
employees, particularly supervisors, in supportive management for a
diverse workforce.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-420
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Women, construction, work-family conflict, career, organizational commitment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000122186
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619032000122186
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:409-420
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Brochner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brochner
Author-Name: Sara Rosander
Author-X-Name-First: Sara
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosander
Author-Name: Fredrik Waara
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Waara
Title: Cross-border post-acquisition knowledge transfer among construction consultants
Abstract:
Mergers and acquisitions among engineering consulting firms and other
professional service organizations occur frequently. International
acquisitions should pose challenges because of corporate and national
barriers of culture. The purpose here has been to study the relative
influences of technical and cultural heterogeneity on knowledge transfer
in a post-merger situation where offices in two countries are involved. In
2001, the UK-based WSP Group - providing management and consultancy
services to the property, land and construction sectors - acquired J&W, a
leading engineering consultancy firm in Sweden. Two technical disciplines,
rail and contaminated land, were selected for this survey. Four offices,
two in each country, participated with eight consultants in each place.
The survey shows occasional, two-way knowledge exchange taking place 16
months after acquisition. Face-to-face meetings, e-mail and technical
business gatherings are perceived as the best transfer mechanisms. The
presence of knowledgeable customers differs between disciplines and seems
to explain differences between transfer patterns. Among metrics for
knowledge transfer, the number of international joint projects is assigned
the highest rank. Consequences for the choice of organization of knowledge
transfer, as well as the measurement and communication of progress in
knowledge transfer, are identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 421-427
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Engineering, culture, knowledge transfer, acquisitions, professional services,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000240003
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000240003
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:421-427
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Kishk
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Kishk
Title: Combining various facets of uncertainty in whole-life cost modelling
Abstract:
Estimates for various parameters in a whole-life costing (WLC) exercise
are obtained from different sources each with its own level and type of
uncertainty. A practical procedure is developed to handle statistically
significant data and expert assessments within the same whole-life costing
(WLC) model calculation. First, various methods used to combine random and
subjective data are critically reviewed with emphasis on their suitability
to WLC modelling. This is followed by the identification of an appropriate
mathematical framework into which all information and data are transformed
to a common representation making their integration a straightforward
task. The proposed procedure is then implemented into a computational
algorithm. The efficacy of the algorithm is explained in the context of a
selected example application.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 429-435
Issue: 4
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Fuzzy set theory, whole-life costing, uncertainty combination,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000176483
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000176483
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:4:p:429-435
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Modelling the determinants of multi-firm project success: a grounded exploration of differing participant perspectives
Abstract:
Existing approaches to multi-firm project success have been suggested as
being overly normative and deductive. They can also be criticized for
failing to accommodate the heterogeneous perspectives of respective
participants in multi-firm projects that might be hypothesized
intrinsically to differ by industry sector, size and other firm
demographics. This research tests the extent to which the determinants of
project success differ by sector, firm size and origin within the
construction industry using an inductive, grounded approach to model
building. Results confirm that project success factors differ
significantly between project participants, and suggest the wider
application of inductive methodologies to identify such heterogeneous
factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 451-459
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Project success, determinants of project success, grounded approach, modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000190243
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:451-459
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. S. Poon
Author-X-Name-First: C. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Poon
Author-Name: Ann Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Ann
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: L. Jaillon
Author-X-Name-First: L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jaillon
Title: Reducing building waste at construction sites in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The building industry is using a considerable amount of resources, but if
the life cycle of the material on site is closely examined, it is
generally known that there is a relatively large portion of the materials
being wasted because of poor material control on building sites. The
problem of material wastage is not an isolated issue on construction
sites. It is also an environmental concern. Hong Kong is running out of
both reclamation sites and landfill space for the disposal of construction
& demolition (C&D) waste. Many resources can be conserved and the amount
of C&D waste required to be disposed of should be greatly reduced if
better management of materials is practiced on building sites. This paper
reports on a recent study conducted in Hong Kong relating to material
control on construction sites with high-rise multi-storey buildings. In
the paper, the causes of building waste are identified and the wastage
levels of various trades for public housing and private residential
projects in Hong Kong are quantified. The role of material control in
reducing building waste is then discussed in details under three headings,
namely design, material procurement and handling, and site management and
practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 461-470
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: building industry, construction waste, waste reduction, material control, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202816
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:461-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Francis Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Hans Bjornsson
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Bjornsson
Title: Using real option and decision analysis to evaluate investments in the architecture, construction and engineering industry
Abstract:
Many architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals would
like to use real option (RO) and decision analysis (DA) to evaluate
alternatives in investment in the face of uncertainty. However, they have
difficulty deciding which one to use and many are not aware of the subtle
differences in assumptions and techniques between the two methodologies.
We explain how DA and RO can be applied in complete and incomplete markets
and what implicit assumptions we need to be aware of in each scenario.
Through a toll road example, it is shown that, in a complete market, DA
and RO give the same valuation regardless of the choice of the utility
function. A formula is provided for pricing any investment in a complete
market. The paper also discusses why the values calculated using DA and RO
differ in an incomplete market and when DA is more appropriate than RO and
vice versa.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-482
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Decision analysis, real option, investment evaluation, sequential decision-making, market,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649074
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:471-482
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Sai On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Toby Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Toby
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: An integrated regression analysis and time series model for construction tender price index forecasting
Abstract:
Clients need to be informed in advance of their likely future financial
commitments and cost implications as the design evolves. This requires the
estimation of building cost based on historic cost data that is updated by
a forecasted Tender Price Index (TPI), with the reliability of the
estimates depending significantly on accurate projections being obtained
of the TPI for the forthcoming quarters. In practice, the prediction of
construction tender price index movement entails a judgemental projection
of future market conditions, including inflation. Statistical techniques
such as Regression Analysis (RA) and Time Series (TS) modelling provide a
powerful means of improving predictive accuracy when used individually. An
integrated RA-TS model is developed and its predictive power compared with
the individual RA or TS models. The accuracy of the RA-TS model is shown
to outperform the individual RA and TS models in both one and two-period
forecasts, with the integrated RA-TS model accurately predicting (95%
confidence level) one-quarter forecasts for all the 34 holdout periods
involved, with only one period not meeting the confidence limit for
two-quarter forecasts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-493
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Cost estimate, integrated forecasting model, tender price index forecast, time series modelling, regression analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202799
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:483-493
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nuno Gil
Author-X-Name-First: Nuno
Author-X-Name-Last: Gil
Author-Name: Iris Tommelein
Author-X-Name-First: Iris
Author-X-Name-Last: Tommelein
Author-Name: Glenn Ballard
Author-X-Name-First: Glenn
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballard
Title: Theoretical comparison of alternative delivery systems for projects in unpredictable environments
Abstract:
A project delivery process simulation is presented based upon empirical
studies in the design-build environment of semiconductor fabrication
facilities ('fabs'). The model captures key tasks and decisions in design,
procurement and construction, as well as design criteria changes along the
delivery of a R&D fab utility system. Simulation shows that to involve the
specialty contractor from the project start on average expedites project
delivery since it prevents delays caused by bidding and by contractors'
unfamiliarity with the design product definition. Yet, in unpredictable
project environments - environments in which design criteria are likely to
change irrespectively of the project progress status - simulation reveals
that the averages of construction rework and waste increase if design is
prematurely frozen. Assuming that work methods do not change and design
criteria remain uncertain, results indicate that a system that combines
early contractor involvement with judicious postponement of the design
start reduces the average duration of the fab utility delivery in relation
to the expected duration if competitive bidding was used, with limited
increase in the averages of construction rework and waste. Additional
efficiency is gained when specialty contractors relax conservative
assumptions on anticipated site conditions. An economic model uses
simulation results to assess the tradeoffs between alternative project
delivery systems for the case of R&D fabs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-508
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Specialty contractor, simulation, change, postponement, facility delivery compression,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649100
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:495-508
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chao-Hui Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Chao-Hui
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Ting-Ya Hsieh
Author-X-Name-First: Ting-Ya
Author-X-Name-Last: Hsieh
Author-Name: Wen-Lon Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Wen-Lon
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Author-Name: Shih-Tong Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shih-Tong
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Grey relation analysis of causes for change orders in highway construction
Abstract:
Change orders issued during the construction of the second national
highway in Taiwan have been categorized depending on whether they
originate from owner, design consultant, on-site contractor unit, or
external parties. A total of 34 change order causes are found for this
construction project. Grey relation analysis (GRA) was used in this study,
and change orders in the second national highway construction project in
Taiwan are characterized by the following conclusions: (1) poorly executed
design drawings, policy changes and new management requirements are not
important causes of change orders; and (2) more roadways should be
designed as viaducts to avoid levying more land and negotiating with
landowner.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-520
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Change orders, entropy method, Grey relation analysis, highway construction, Taiwan,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202735
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:509-520
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Georg Herrmann
Author-X-Name-First: Georg
Author-X-Name-Last: Herrmann
Title: Cost vs. production: disparities in social housing construction in Britain and Germany
Abstract:
The nature of the labour process in the British construction industry is
different from that in Germany. The rationale of the British system is
based on controlling costs through overseeing contract relations,
themselves circumscribing a range of narrow, clearly defined and priced
tasks. The production process has become secondary and production
expertise restricted. In contrast, in Germany cost aspects are
incorporated into, rather than separated from, the production system,
built on the interaction of capital and labour and on a high level of
production expertise. Employment relations rather than contract relations
predominate and circumscribe a set of skills drawn from the potential of
the labour force and dependent on broad-based vocational education. A
detailed investigation of social housebuilding projects and the firms
involved in Britain and Germany reveals the need for more skills, and a
qualitatively different constellation of skills, professional and
operative, in Britain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 521-532
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Germany, housebuilding, skills, training, comparison,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649119
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:521-532
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christopher Miller
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Miller
Author-Name: Gary Packham
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Packham
Author-Name: David Pickernell
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Pickernell
Author-Name: Mark Mcgovern
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcgovern
Title: Building for the future: the potential importance of the construction industry in Welsh economic development policy
Abstract:
Government aid offered to Wales, and largely spent on attracting foreign
direct investment, has yet to provide tangible benefits in terms of
relative economic prosperity and sustained job creation. The present
policy focus is therefore now concerned with creating innovative solutions
led by local individuals, firms and communities. New economic strategic
aims and objectives have failed to attach significance to the potential
importance of the construction sector in assisting this economic
regeneration of regions and, in particular, the benefits that can be
derived from the development of the small construction enterprise (SCE).
It is argued that for the SCE to survive and grow, it is necessary both to
acknowledge the role of small firms and to develop beneficial training
packages. Moreover, it is imperative that such new initiatives engender an
inclusive culture that meet the needs of all contracting parties and
aspires to the notion of increased profitability for all.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 533-540
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Small construction enterprises, government policy, training and development, Wales,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:533-540
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Michael Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: The construction industry in the economy of Trinidad & Tobago
Abstract:
The construction sector is generally one of the larger and more important
sectors of a nation's economy. If economic policy is to achieve its
desired objectives, it is necessary to have some understanding of how the
economy will react to various changes that can be effected. Because the
construction sector is large and responsive, it is a key sector for
manipulating the economy and, hence, it is important to know what the role
of the construction sector is in the economy. Some of the key issues here
are the effect of changes in GDP on construction output and employment, as
well as the effects of changes in money supply, inflation, expenditure on
the public sector investment programme and the rate of approval of
building plans. This paper sets out to see if there are relationships
between these factors that justify further investigation and, as such,
helps establish a research agenda for the industry, particularly in
comparing developed and less-developed countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 541-549
Issue: 5
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Trinidad & Tobago, GDP, employment, inflation, public sector investment programme,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000190234
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:5:p:541-549
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Evia Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Evia
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Robin Yip
Author-X-Name-First: Robin
Author-X-Name-Last: Yip
Title: Promoting sustainable construction waste management in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Similar to many affluent cities found elsewhere in the world, Hong Kong
is currently facing a great challenge to manage the wastes generated from
its construction and demolition (C&D) activities that has wide-ranging
impacts on the environment. To tackle this, the Hong Kong Special and
Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has signalled the required
changes by sorting out the inert substances from C&D waste for reusing and
recycling and using recycled building materials in construction through
its role as both a construction client and contractor. The current
practices and attitudes of local project participants towards C&D waste
management were collected through questionnaires. A total of 69
questionnaires were received: 61% of the respondents stated that their
projects did not take any measures to collect and separate C&D wastes and
64% of the projects did not use recycled building materials in
construction. The prevailing problems of local construction industry are
addressed through examinations of the constraints involved in improving
C&D waste treatment and according to the results of the survey, to
evaluate the practicability of increasing the capability and capacity of
the industry to learn to be more sustainable.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 563-566
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Construction and demolition waste, sorting, recycling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000226270
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:563-566
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bambang Trigunarsyah
Author-X-Name-First: Bambang
Author-X-Name-Last: Trigunarsyah
Title: A review of current practice in constructability improvement: case studies on construction projects in Indonesia
Abstract:
The concept of constructability emerged in the late 1970s, evolved from
studies into how improvement can be achieved to increase cost efficiency
and quality in the construction industry. It is an approach that links the
design and construction processes. The studies in the USA, UK and, later,
in Australia have demonstrated that improved constructability has lead to
significant savings in both cost and time required for completing
construction projects. However, in implementing constructability
improvement, it is important to consider the uniqueness of the
construction industry in a specific country. To improve constructability
in Indonesian construction projects, two main questions need to be
answered: how is construction integrated into planning and design in
existing practice and how can constructability be improved. Case studies
indicate that the contractual relationships between the project team
members determine the options for early involvement of construction
personnel, and that the current constructability practices have had some
positive impacts on project performance. In addition to a reduction in
constructability problems, current constructability practices have enabled
significant economic savings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 567-580
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Constructability improvement, Indonesia, project performance, construction industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202870
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:567-580
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Y. L. Chew
Author-X-Name-First: M. Y. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chew
Author-Name: Nayanthara De Silva
Author-X-Name-First: Nayanthara
Author-X-Name-Last: De Silva
Author-Name: S. S. Tan
Author-X-Name-First: S. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: A neural network approach to assessing building facade maintainability in the tropics
Abstract:
A model was developed to assess the maintainability of facade using
neural network techniques. Inputs were derived from comprehensive studies
of 570 tall buildings (more than 12 stories) through detailed field
evaluation and interviews with professionals in the whole building
delivery process. Sensitivity analysis showed that the most significant
factors associated with facade maintainability include the system
selection, detailing, accessibility and material performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-594
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Maintainability, facade, risk, building defect, neural network, sensitivity analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001631019
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Man-Fong Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Man-Fong
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Denny Mcgeorge
Author-X-Name-First: Denny
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcgeorge
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Implementing corporate ethics management and its comparison with the safety management system: a case study in Hong Kong
Abstract:
A case study of one general contracting construction organization in Hong
Kong was undertaken. The study illustrates the current state of corporate
ethics management in the implementation of a corporate code of ethics. The
overall process of developing the corporate code of ethics from planning
to implementation was investigated. It was found that the corporate
management of the organization that was studied adopted a laissez-faire
approach in implementing its code at the project level. This means that
there was no formal and unified cross-organizational plan for implementing
the code at the project level. The methods of communicating the corporate
code of ethics to the members of the project team were left to the
discretion of the individual project manager. The research findings also
showed that different project managers adopted different methods of
communication to disseminate the corporate code of ethics to members of
their project team.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 595-606
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: corporate ethics management, corporate code of ethics, implementation models for management systems, case study, communication methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202861
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:595-606
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I. M. Johnstone
Author-X-Name-First: I. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnstone
Title: Development of a model to estimate the benefit-cost ratio performance of housing
Abstract:
A simulation model based on classical population dynamics is developed to
estimate the benefit-cost ratio performance of different typologies of
housing with the purpose of identifying potential reductions in the total
costs and hence resources used to sustain housing. A typical New Zealand
dwelling constructed of lightweight timber framing is used as an example.
Dwellings within the simulation model undergo periodic cycles of
refurbishment based on best practices. When the simulated housing stock
expands at the rate of 1.5% per year, an annual expenditure equivalent to
the costs to construct one dwelling sustains the services provided by 26.7
dwellings after adjustment for economic depreciation. This benefit-cost
ratio performance improves by 32.4% when the housing stock is stationary.
Further improvements of 5.3% can be achieved by deferring refurbishment
and accepting a higher level of economic depreciation of dwelling
services. The results of all scenarios indicate that structural systems
with a service life of only 50 years should not be used unless the costs
of such systems are substantially less than the costs of traditional
structural systems and that lightweight timber framed dwellings should not
be sustained well beyond a service life of 90 years.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 607-617
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: sustainability, housing stock, simulation model, benefit-cost ratio,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202825
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:607-617
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Author-Name: I-Tung Yang
Author-X-Name-First: I-Tung
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: Photios Ioannou
Author-X-Name-First: Photios
Author-X-Name-Last: Ioannou
Title: Scheduling system with focus on practical concerns in repetitive projects
Abstract:
The line of balance (LOB) method has long been used to model construction
projects with repetitive units. Critics, however, indicate two major
shortcomings of applying LOB in the construction industry: (1) it has not
yet been adapted to numerical computation as readily as network methods;
and (2) it relies on restrictive assumptions and therefore cannot treat
the practical concerns concluded in this paper. To treat all the practical
concerns and provide necessary calculation power, a new scheduling system
is proposed: the Repetitive Scheduling Method (RSM) and its computerized
implementation, Repetitive Project Planner (RP2). RSM includes necessary
modelling elements (i.e. activity and relationship types) and a set of
computational algorithm to calculate the start time of every activity as
well as the minimum project duration. RP2 automatically calculates and
generates RSM diagrams that are particularly useful in serving as a
test-bed for project managers to perform what-if analyses for different
crew utilization strategies. A real-life pipeline project is used to
demonstrate the application of RP2 and to compare that with the critical
path method (CPM) and traditional LOB models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 619-630
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Repetitive project, work continuity, project management, what-if analysis, crew utilization strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649065
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:619-630
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patricia Carrillo
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Carrillo
Title: Managing knowledge: lessons from the oil and gas sector
Abstract:
Knowledge management (KM) is of increasing interest to a number of
leading UK construction organizations. Companies are keen to find out what
other organizations are doing both within the construction and other
industry sectors. There are important lessons to be learned from Canadian
oil and gas organizations on how they manage their knowledge. A case study
is used to explore the KM activities of eight leading organizations and
investigate the opportunities for construction organizations to adopt some
of their ideas. Three areas are covered: KM strategy and implementation,
people aspects of KM and metrics for KM performance. There are several
potential lessons for UK organizations: the need for KM to be driven by
senior management if it is to have any notable success; the use of
people-centred techniques for sharing tacit knowledge and IT tools for
sharing explicit knowledge; the importance of selling solutions to project
teams to obtain employee support for KM; peer recognition has a more
sustainable impact than financial reward; and KM measurement should be
considered as a way of improving its impact, rather than justifying
expenditure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 631-642
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Knowledge management, construction, oil and gas sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000226289
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000226289
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:631-642
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Lowe
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Lowe
Author-Name: Jamshid Parvar
Author-X-Name-First: Jamshid
Author-X-Name-Last: Parvar
Title: A logistic regression approach to modelling the contractor's decision to bid
Abstract:
Significant factors in the decision to bid process are identified and a
pro-forma to elicit a numerical assessment of these factors is developed
and validated using the bid/no-bid decision-makers from a UK construction
company. Using the pro-forma, data were collected from the collaborating
company for historical bid opportunities. Statistical techniques are used
to gain a better understanding of the data characteristics and to model
the process. Eight variables have a significant relationship with the
decision to bid outcome and for which the decision-makers are able to
discriminate. Factor analysis is used to identify the underlying
dimensions of the pro-forma and to validate functional decomposition of
the factors. Finally, two logistic regression models of the decision to
bid process are developed. While one model is ultimately rejected, the
selected model is capable of classifying the total sample with an overall
predictive accuracy rate of 94.8%. The results, therefore, demonstrate
that the model functions effectively in predicting the bid/no-bid decision
process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 643-653
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Bidding, construction, decision-making, decision to bid,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649056
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:643-653
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Planning for claims: an ethnography of industry culture
Abstract:
Claims by contractors for additional payments have been identified by
commentators as a major source of difficulty in the industry. Ethnographic
research with industry members reveals some key features of planning
practices that underlie such events. Claims are sometimes planned at
tender stage and sometimes during the course of a project. One practice at
tender stage is a pricing technique that minimizes the tender price while
maximizing the out-turn cost of a contract by exploiting mistakes in the
bill of quantities. Another is the programming of work to maximize its
vulnerability to delay. More reactive techniques may be employed during
the course of the project, often to make up for an unanticipated increase
in costs. These and other similar practices may be reported as features of
an integrated culture, defined in such a way as to encompass activity and
reject Cartesian dualism. The unique adequacy requirements of methods are
suitable criteria for the evaluation of such reports. The claims culture
arises from economic conditions in the industry, which include low entry
barriers and competitive tendering. However, removal of these conditions
alone cannot guarantee that the practices will cease.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 655-662
Issue: 6
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Procurement, claims management, organizational culture, ethnography, ethnomethodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461904200026324
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/014461904200026324
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:6:p:655-662
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chi Sun Poon
Author-X-Name-First: Chi Sun
Author-X-Name-Last: Poon
Author-Name: Ann Tit Wan Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Ann Tit Wan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Sze Wai Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Sze Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Esther Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Esther
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Management of construction waste in public housing projects in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Waste management in the building industry in Hong Kong has become a major
environmental issue in recent years. Of particular concern is the
increasing amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste being dumped
at landfill sites. Greater consideration must be given to waste generation
and management at the planning stage of a building development to reduce
wastage levels. The causes and quantities of building construction waste
generated on public housing building sites in Hong Kong have been
analysed. Five public housing construction sites were selected for the
study by regular site visits. Timber boards used in formwork were the most
significant waste type requiring disposal followed by waste derived from
wet trades. Waste generation could be significantly reduced by the use of
precasting and system formworks. The major causes of wastes were improper
preparation and handling, misuse, and incorrect processing. In general,
little on-site waste sorting was carried out. Appropriate planning
including the preparation of a detailed waste management plan is essential
for effective waste minimization. At the construction stage, better house
keeping and more vigorous on-site sorting of inert from non-inert
materials are necessary. Waste indices calculated from waste monitoring
data should be publicized and used for future waste estimations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 675-689
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Hong Kong, Construction Waste, Waste Recycling, Waste Management Plan, On-site Sorting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213292
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000213292
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:7:p:675-689
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerhard Kreitl
Author-X-Name-First: Gerhard
Author-X-Name-Last: Kreitl
Author-Name: Wolfgang Oberndorfer
Author-X-Name-First: Wolfgang
Author-X-Name-Last: Oberndorfer
Title: Motives for acquisitions among engineering consulting firms
Abstract:
Many empirical studies across various industry sectors show a high
failure rate of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), suggesting that this
instrument of corporate development is rather risky. Since engineering
consulting firms usually have a low tangible asset base as well as good
educated and highly mobile professionals, carrying out an M&A transaction
in this particular service sector creates an even higher risk. It is
evident from the relevant construction and engineering literature that a
large number of engineering consulting firms engage in M&A for their
corporate development. Owing to the uniqueness of that service sector
combined with the high failure rate of M&A, a survey among the top 100
engineering consulting firms in Europe was conducted to investigate the
motives behind M&A transactions. Findings suggest that diversification
into new service/client markets as well as the penetration into new
geographic markets were the most important motives. Further, increasing
the firm's market share and the acceleration of growth were the next most
popularly rated motives, while tax reasons or spending the firm's excess
cash were both seen as relatively unimportant motives. The results show
that - compared to other industry sectors - engineering consulting firms
had some very different motives or another emphasis was placed on those
motives when conducting an M&A transaction. Results also show that some
motives were just as important for engineering consulting firms as for
firms of other industry sectors, for example the increase of market share
or the acceleration of firm growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 691-700
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Mergers And Acquisitions, Motive, Engineering, Consulting Firm, Europe,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241408
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000241408
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:7:p:691-700
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Alice Chong
Author-X-Name-First: Alice
Author-X-Name-Last: Chong
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Michael Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Demystifying stakeholders' commitment and its impacts on construction projects
Abstract:
Construction projects are typified by the involvement of a number of
participants. Each project team member has his/own expertise, and would
contribute towards the success of the project. However, since their inputs
are often interdependent, conflicts may arise in some circumstances. This
is particularly evidenced when they are working within limited resources
in terms of time and budget. One cannot expect a project team to attain
the necessary synergy when common goals are not being visualized or
observed. To improve the implementation performance of construction
projects, it is necessary to investigate the goal commitment amongst
temporary project team members. This research study aims to investigate
the impacts of commitment amongst major project stakeholders. The results
indicate that high affective commitment induces high performance and
satisfaction, while the continuous commitment provokes intention to quit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 701-715
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Commitment, Performance, Satisfaction, Intention To Quit, Turnover,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000300736
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000300736
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:7:p:701-715
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Hongbin Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Hongbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Author-Name: Christopher Leong
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Leong
Title: A comparative study of top British and Chinese international contractors in the global market
Abstract:
While British contractors have one of the longest history and experience
in the international construction market, Chinese contractors are relative
newcomers where the global market is concerned. This study compares the
performance of top British and Chinese contractors based on the OLI+S
model, which incorporates the ownership (O), locational(L),
internalization (I) and specialty (S) factors. The study suggests that the
international involvement of top British contractors has declined from a
peak in 1996, while that of the top Chinese contractors has grown steadily
since the 1980s. All the OLI+S advantages of top British construction
firms were higher than those of their Chinese counterparts even though the
number of Chinese construction firms ranked in the top 225 international
contractors by the US-based Engineering News Record was higher than that
of the British firms. This study further recommends that the
internalization and specialty advantages of top British firms and some of
the ownership advantages of top Chinese firms may provide them with
opportunities to work together in many areas.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 717-731
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: International Construction, Firms, Performance, Great Britain, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202780
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000202780
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: H. S. Robinson
Author-X-Name-First: H. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Robinson
Author-Name: P. M. Carrillo
Author-X-Name-First: P. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Carrillo
Author-Name: C. J. Anumba
Author-X-Name-First: C. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Anumba
Author-Name: A. M. Al-Ghassani
Author-X-Name-First: A. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Ghassani
Title: Developing a business case for knowledge management: the IMPaKT approach
Abstract:
There is a wealth of literature on the role of knowledge management (KM)
in business improvement. Those with responsibility for implementing KM in
organizations are often required to demonstrate its benefits. The need to
convince senior management and other stakeholders about the business
benefits is increasingly recognized as crucial in justifying a KM strategy
and the resources to support its implementation. A three-stage approach
(the IMPaKT framework) - underpinned by an industry survey and case study
findings - is presented for developing a business case for KM. The
framework facilitates: (1) an understanding of the strategic context of
business problems and their knowledge management implications; (2) the
planning and alignment of KM strategy to address business problems or
objectives; and (3) an evaluation of the impact of KM on business
performance in terms of effectiveness and efficiency. Key findings based
on industrial application and further development of the framework are
discussed. Evaluation shows that the framework could significantly
facilitate the implementation of a KM strategy in construction
organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 733-743
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Knowledge Management, Business Performance, Construction Organizations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000226306
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000226306
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Felipe Vazquez
Author-X-Name-First: Felipe
Author-X-Name-Last: Vazquez
Author-Name: Stephen Allen
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Allen
Title: Private sector participation in the delivery of highway infrastructure in Central America and Mexico
Abstract:
A case study of private sector involvement in the provision of a roadway
infrastructure network reviewed negative experiences in Mexico between
1989 and 1995. The aim of this case study was to identify improvements
that must be considered for successful private sector participation on
future transport infrastructure projects. The recommendations presented
were developed as a result of a review of research and practice in Mexico,
and in both developed and developing countries around the world where the
private sector has been involved in the delivery of highway
infrastructure. Key findings relate to the need for integrated
infrastructure planning; the bundling of concession projects and possible
use of shadow tolls to make them attractive to the private sector; and,
the implementation of more robust financial models in developing
countries. These findings have a broader applicability than highways in
Central America and may relate to a variety of projects in other
developing countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 745-754
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Integrated Transport Infrastructure, Private Sector Participation, Private Finance, Central America,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000226298
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000226298
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:7:p:745-754
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rina Hayane Sumardi
Author-X-Name-First: Rina Hayane
Author-X-Name-Last: Sumardi
Author-Name: Kwabena Asomanin Anaman
Author-X-Name-First: Kwabena Asomanin
Author-X-Name-Last: Anaman
Title: Aggregate efficiency analysis of resource use and demand for labour by the construction industry in Brunei Darussalam
Abstract:
The construction industry is the third largest contributor to the gross
domestic product (GDP) in Brunei Darussalam, the wealthiest Muslim country
in the world based on per capita GDP. The construction industry in Brunei
has been in a crisis since the Asian financial crisis of 1998 and the
subsequent collapse in the same year of the Amedeo Company, the largest
company dealing with construction-related business in Brunei. The
objectives of this study are to gauge the overall aggregate level of
inefficiency of the industry and to analyse the factors affecting
aggregate labour demand in the industry. Econometric analysis, based on
secondary time-series data of the construction industry from 1971 to 2001,
was the main route used to fulfil these objectives. The technical
inefficiency of the construction industry was undertaken using a
stochastic frontier production function analysis. The results indicated
that overall technical inefficiency of the industry was about 26.6%. The
short-run demand for labour in the construction industry was estimated
based on time-series secondary data using a partial expectation model.
This particular analysis showed that construction firms were only getting
about half of the desired increase in the workers that they wanted to
employ.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 755-764
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Brunei, Construction Industry, Economics Of Resource Use, Efficiency Analysis, Labour Demand, Southeast Asia, Stochastic Frontier Production Function,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202807
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000202807
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Viggo Nordvik
Author-X-Name-First: Viggo
Author-X-Name-Last: Nordvik
Author-Name: Kim Robert Lisø
Author-X-Name-First: Kim Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Lisø
Title: A primer on the building economics of climate change
Abstract:
Climate change will entail new conditions for the construction industry.
Knowledge about the implications of climate change on the built
environment will be of the utmost importance to the industry in years to
come. A building is a 'long lasting' durable asset that is changed over
time due to exogenously imposed strains and by actions. The built
environment has an expected lifetime varying from 60 to more than 100
years. Hence, the building economics of climate change should be treated
within a dynamic analytical framework that explicitly allows for changes
in the information sets over time. The building stock of the future
consists of the building stock of today and of new construction. In the
future, parts of the present building stock will be adapted to changes in
the environment, while some parts will be kept as they are. Analysis of
how building stock is affected by future climate change should handle this
diversity. This can be done through the use of a putty-clay model.
Uncertainty of what kind of climate regimes will prevail in the future
enhances the profitability of actions that increase future flexibility.
Hence, the real option approach to building economics is utilized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 765-775
Issue: 7
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Building Economics, Global Warming, Climate Change, Putty-clay, Real Options, Building Stock, Building Enclosure Performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213256
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000213256
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:7:p:765-775
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen D. Pryke
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Pryke
Title: Analysing construction project coalitions: exploring the application of social network analysis
Abstract:
The construction industry is currently in transition as a
result of innovations in procurement and project management approaches, in
particular, the utilization of supply chain management, and technology or
work clusters in the context of partnering relationships between project
coalition actors and the client organization. These new strategies require
an analytical method that deals with actor interdependence and provides an
appropriate level of detail and quantitative data in relation to the
non-linear, complex, iterative and interactive process that construction
projects comprise. The construction project is conceptualized as a number
information exchange networks, classified according to the principal
project functions and supported by performance incentive and contractual
relationship networks. The point centrality of the project actors within
these various networks provides quantitative data and graphical
representation of the governance of construction projects and the changes
brought about by innovations in procurement and project management
techniques. Social network analysis (SNA) provides an important new
quantitative approach in the comparative analysis of procurement and
project management of construction projects. SNA enables traditional
project coalition management approaches to be compared with those
associated with innovative management approaches. Quantitative analysis
relates to the appropriateness and effectiveness of both financial
incentives and contractual conditions involved in the governance of
construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 787-797
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000206533
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000206533
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:787-797
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chi Sun Poon
Author-X-Name-First: Chi Sun
Author-X-Name-Last: Poon
Author-Name: Ann Tit Wan Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Ann Tit Wan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Siu Ching See
Author-X-Name-First: Siu Ching
Author-X-Name-Last: See
Author-Name: Esther Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Esther
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Minimizing demolition wastes in Hong Kong public housing projects
Abstract:
Being one of the major housing developers in Hong Kong, the
Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) carries out a large number of
construction and demolition projects. As a result, a large amount of
construction and demolition waste is produced. As for demolition projects,
demolition wastes usually contain a large amount of reusable materials. If
sorted out properly, these materials could be better reused or recycled.
Two case studies have been carried out on public housing projects to
quantify the recovery rates of various types of demolition wastes in
demolition projects and to assess the implementation of on-site sorting
requirements. The current practices of demolition contractors in Hong Kong
mainly focus on the working procedures and waste generation during the
main demolition stage and sorting of waste is difficult due to cross
contamination although on-site sorting has been stated as a requirement in
the contract. The demolition method statement should include working
details of both the salvaging and the demolition stages to affect waste
sorting and recycling. Selective demolition should be considered to
further improve the waste recycling rate but there is a need to develop
recycling markets to provide outlets for the collected recyclables.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 799-805
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213283
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000213283
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:799-805
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Adrian J Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian J
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Author-Name: Clem Tisdell
Author-X-Name-First: Clem
Author-X-Name-Last: Tisdell
Title: The determinants of the vertical boundaries of the construction firm
Abstract:
In the last few years, transaction cost economics has become
a popular theory within the construction research community. This approach
has been singularly applied as a means to explain and predict phenomena
concerning the construction firm, including its vertical boundaries.
However, this is at a time when the chief proponents of transaction costs
are urging researchers to take a pluralistic stance in relation to the
theory of the firm. The aim of this paper is to develop a pluralistic
approach to the vertical boundaries of the construction firm. In order to
achieve this, an integrative framework is described, based on the
development of the efficient boundaries problem and the
capabilities approach to vertical integration.
Specifically, this framework draws on the complementary strengths of
transaction cost economics and the resource-based view. It is concluded
that the potential relative merits of theoretical pluralism, in terms of
the vertical boundaries of the construction firm, are sufficient grounds
to motivate empirical testing of the predictions associated with the
integrative framework of vertical integration presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 807-825
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649038
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190310001649038
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:807-825
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andr� G. Dor�e
Author-X-Name-First: Andr� G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dor�e
Author-Name: Elsebeth Holmen
Author-X-Name-First: Elsebeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Holmen
Title: Achieving the unlikely: innovating in the loosely coupled construction system
Abstract:
Previous research suggests that a characteristic of the
construction industry is a lack of technological innovation. Since this is
seen as a problem, much theoretical development within construction
management focuses on explaining the lack of innovation. Less effort has
been expended on using such explanatory theories for investigating those
rare exceptions in which construction firms succeed in the unlikely:
successfully developing a new technology. This article makes use of the
recently suggested framework by Dubois and Gadde. They describe the
construction industry as a 'loosely coupled system' with four types of
couplings, discuss why the particular mix of couplings in the construction
system leads to a lack of innovation, and suggest types of couplings that
construction firms should experiment with and change in order to boost
innovation. A case study of a contractor developing a new technology is
presented in terms of Dubois and Gadde's concepts and implications. The
findings partly support and partly contradict their hypotheses. It seems
that innovation is possible even if only a few of the existing couplings
are changed. The most important changes relate to the tightening of
intrafirm sequential inter-project couplings enabling learning from
project to project, and contract-related couplings especially the
design-construction interface.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 827-838
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000190225
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000190225
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:827-838
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C.M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C.M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas K.L. Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas K.L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: Sharon L. Tse
Author-X-Name-First: Sharon L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tse
Title: Modelling hook times of mobile cranes using artificial neural networks
Abstract:
The hook times of mobile cranes are processes that are of
non-linear and discrete nature. Artificial neural network is a data
processing technique that lends itself to this kind of problem. Three
common artificial neural network architectures - multi-layer feed-forward
(MLFF), group method of data handling (GMDH) and general regression neural
network (GRNN) - are compared. The results show that the GRNN model aided
with genetic algorithm (GA) is most promising in describing the non-linear
and discrete nature of the hook times. The MLFF model can also give a
moderate level of accuracy in the estimation of hook travelling times of
mobile cranes and is ranked second. The GMDH model is outperformed by the
former two due to a less promising R-square.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-849
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202771
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000202771
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:839-849
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Javier C. Cuervo
Author-X-Name-First: Javier C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cuervo
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Global performance measures for transnational construction corporations
Abstract:
The top transnational construction corporations (TCCs) are
ranked according to their international revenues by the
Engineering News Record. The amount or share of
international revenues of a contractor however does not necessarily
reflect the contractor's global performance. The geographic spread of
works in different countries and regions of the world and the extent of
liberalization or protection of markets do influence the global
performance of TCCs. To account for these factors, new measures of
global spread, global intensity and global
intensity with domestic performance are proposed which measures
the global performance of contractors. These measures of global
performance were applied to the top 20 international contractors reported
by the ENR. The ranking of the top 20 TCCs shifts when the new measures of
global performance are applied to these companies. One salient finding is
that not all TCCs belonging to the top five, in terms of international
revenues, are truly global construction corporations based on new global
performance indicators. A significant implication for future research work
is to assess how managers of TCCs can transform global presence and
performance, as reflected in these new measures, into global competitive
advantages.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 851-860
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001673562
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190410001673562
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:851-860
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bambang Trigunarsyah
Author-X-Name-First: Bambang
Author-X-Name-Last: Trigunarsyah
Title: Project owners' role in improving constructability of construction projects: an example analysis for Indonesia
Abstract:
Constructability is an approach that links the design and
construction processes, which can lead to significant savings in both cost
and time required for completing construction projects. Improving
constructability of construction projects is the responsibility of all
project stakeholders: owners, designers and contractors. As the owners
have the most authority in enforcing the implementation of
constructability, the owners' awareness of the benefit of improved
constructability is the most important. Project owners must be aware that
the decisions that are made in the initial stages of planning and design
are difficult and costly to change once construction begins. A
questionnaire survey was used to gain information on the Indonesian
construction project owners' understanding of constructability by
assessing the current constructability practices and their impact on
project performance. The study shows that project owners in Indonesia do
have some understanding of the importance of constructability. However,
the traditional approach to project delivery, which is the preferred
method by most of them, limits their option for involving construction
personnel in the pre-construction phases.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 861-876
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001678107
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190410001678107
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:861-876
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew R.J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew R.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Mei-I Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-I
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Author-Name: David R. Moore
Author-X-Name-First: David R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Moore
Title: A competency-based performance model for construction project managers
Abstract:
The role of competency-based performance management is
growing in significance in many industries and sectors. Unlike functional
competences, which measure performance against predetermined minimum
occupational standards, competency-based systems are founded on the key
behavioural competencies that underlie superior levels of performance. In
order to identify the key behaviours leading to performance excellence
amongst construction project managers, in-depth behavioural event
interviews were used in which managers were asked to recount critical
management incidents, decisions and actions from which their behavioural
competencies could be identified. By delineating the sample according to
their performance against a range of role-based criteria, the competencies
defining superior management performance were determined. Statistical
techniques were then used to develop a model that can be used to predict
likely employee performance, which was subsequently validated on a second
criterion sample. The research identifies 12 core behavioural competencies
that underpin effective project management performance, of which two -
'composure' and 'team leadership' - were the most predictive. The paper
explores the potential role and application of the framework in the drive
for performance excellence within the industry, such as in selection,
management development, succession planning, performance management and
team deployment. It is argued that it offers an innovative alternative to
normative micro-competence-based approaches that do little to engender
performance excellence amongst the industry's key managers and
professionals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 877-886
Issue: 8
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202726
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000202726
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:8:p:877-886
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Olabosipo Fagbenle
Author-X-Name-First: Olabosipo
Author-X-Name-Last: Fagbenle
Author-Name: Aderemi Adeyemi
Author-X-Name-First: Aderemi
Author-X-Name-Last: Adeyemi
Author-Name: David Adesanya
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Adesanya
Title: The impact of non-financial incentives on bricklayers' productivity in Nigeria
Abstract:
High productivity is regarded as a goal that ensures long-term survival
of firms. In Nigeria's labour-intensive construction industry, firms are
currently applying various non-financial incentive schemes aimed at
improving operatives' productivity. A questionnaire survey involving the
management and operatives of construction firms was conducted to determine
the impact of these scheme on the productivity of bricklayers. The survey
was complemented with on-site observation and measurement of bricklayers'
output on 40 construction projects in order to determine the impact of
non-financial incentive schemes on productivity. Comparative analysis of
sites with and without incentives showed that non-financial incentive
schemes significantly improved bricklayers' productive time and these
schemes accounted for 6% to 26% of the variations in output between the
two sets of sites on block laying and concreting activities measured.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 899-911
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Non-financial incentive, motivation, productivity improvement, bricklayers, Nigeria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241262
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000241262
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:899-911
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Operationalizing culture in construction management research: a social identity perspective in the Hong Kong context
Abstract:
A prevailing trend of opinion in construction management research
revolves around the importance of instilling a positive partnering culture
in order to improve overall project performance. Indeed, the culture part
of the equation has often been taken as a given and this has led to many
normative and, at best, prescriptive claims about culture's consequences
in terms of individual behaviours and practices. Despite this trend, no
systematic empirical work has so far been undertaken to objectively
operationalize or test the real effects of culture. This study aims to
fill this research gap. Grounded in the social identity framework, this
study proposes an alternative approach for operationalizing and examining
culture's effects using data derived from 398 local and foreign senior
managers from construction firms in Hong Kong. Results suggest that the
relationships between culture and individual behaviours are far more
complex than alluded to by simple normative generalizations. The study
underscores an urgent need for future research to adopt a more
comprehensive framework for defining and measuring culture in construction
management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 913-925
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Culture, social identity theory, individualism-collectivism, co-operation, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001631000
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190310001631000
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:913-925
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sai On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Chi Ming Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Chi Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Vivian Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Vivian
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Kevin Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Henry Suen
Author-X-Name-First: Henry
Author-X-Name-Last: Suen
Title: A web-based performance assessment system for environmental protection: WePass
Abstract:
In response to the increasing public concern over the effects of
construction waste on the environment, a performance assessment system has
been designed to provide an instant, online assessment of how well a
construction site performs environmentally, e.g. measuring the level of
pollution generated from a construction site. Through the use of both
Internet and database technologies, it is possible to collect and present
data that are essential for environmental management online. To achieve
this, a set of environmental performance parameters was derived through a
postal questionnaire survey and interviews with experts in the field. A
conceptual framework was developed, of which the key components were:
template, knowledge base, output data and benchmark group. In combination,
these factors provide a system that enables speedy assessment and
effective management of environmental performance on construction sites,
hence prompt decisions can be made and corrective actions can be taken
before potential hazards turn into real disasters.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 927-935
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Environmental protection, Internet, database, performance assessment, performance parameters,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202843
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000202843
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:927-935
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: K. C. Ying
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ying
Author-Name: W. Y. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: W. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Y. L. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Y. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Impact of social safety investments on social costs of construction accidents
Abstract:
Most contractors' financial losses associated with accidents, but not
all, are also social costs. Some social costs are not incurred by
contractors, but by society. Social costs of construction accidents have
been gathered for years 1999-2001. The safety investments made by both
contractors and society are also identified based on data assembled for
these three years. These social costs and safety investments were
identified from 119 construction projects involving 1414 accidents and
from 18 government departments in Hong Kong. The data shows that there was
an increasing trend in social safety investments and a decreasing trend in
social costs of construction accidents from 1999 to 2001. During this
period, for every extra $1 of social safety investments made, a reduction
of $2.27 of social costs on construction accidents was achieved in Hong
Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 937-946
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Safety, costs, investments, social impact, construction, accidents, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000226315
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000226315
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:937-946
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: V. Chandra
Author-X-Name-First: V.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chandra
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Women's self-perception: an inter-sector comparison of construction, legal and nursing professionals
Abstract:
The issue of gender in the construction industry has received
considerable attention. However, most of the research has been from a male
perspective and has considered how male perceptions of females act as an
impediment to women's career progression. An understanding of women's
self-perception is important because it helps to explain how women make
sense of the barriers and challenges they face in a male dominated culture
and how they seek to attain positive outcomes for themselves. A comparison
of women in the construction industry with women in other male-dominated
(legal) and female-dominated (nursing) industries reveals little variation
in self perceptions. Indeed, women in the construction industry emerge
relatively positively, with the highest overall level of self-esteem. This
is encouraging and surprising, given the considerable evidence of
significant barriers to entry and career progression for women in the
construction industry, compared to other industries. It indicates that the
construction industry is not a special case and that support strategies
used in other industries are directly transferable, although the culture
of the construction industry may make them more difficult to implement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 947-956
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Professionals, gender, self, perception, equality, construction, nursing, lawyers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001673580
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190410001673580
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:947-956
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Per-Erik Josephson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Josephson
Author-Name: Ingeborg Knauseder
Author-X-Name-First: Ingeborg
Author-X-Name-Last: Knauseder
Title: Learning capabilities in organizational networks: case studies of six construction projects
Abstract:
Organizational learning is a key mechanism for adapting to changes in the
organization's environment, sharing know-how and experiences, and for
providing innovative solutions. Practices of organization learning are
examined in six Swedish construction projects. In the Swedish construction
industry, organization learning practices are in many cases underdeveloped
and therefore mechanisms for sharing know-how, information, and
experiences remain an organizational capability not fully exploited.
Findings suggest that construction projects are primarily relying on
informal and personal contacts rather than more formal reporting and
computer-based management control systems. The implications for management
in the industry are that new arenas wherein various professional groups
can share knowledge and information would be beneficial for construction
projects in terms of enabling for joint learning and a better use of the
intellectual resources employed the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 957-966
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Organizational learning, construction project, networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241417
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000241417
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:957-966
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marcus Ahadzi
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahadzi
Author-Name: Graeme Bowles
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowles
Title: Public-private partnerships and contract negotiations: an empirical study
Abstract:
Despite the increasing popularity in the use of the public-private
partnership concept as a procurement strategy, there have been reported
cases of problems associated with the initial stages of the process in
terms of unduly high bidding costs and pre-contract time overruns due
mainly to the protracted nature of the negotiations. Empirical research
conducted in the UK has focused on the extent of these pre-contract time
and cost overruns. The key attributes of both the private sector consortia
and the public sector organizations that have significant bearing on the
efficiency of the pre-contract processes are: the nature and strength of
the consortium, the quality of the technical proposals they produce for
the bid, and the quality of their financial proposals. For the public
sector organizations they are the organizational capabilities and
technical capabilities. The financial capabilities of the public sector
are ranked lowest in influencing the procurement process. Whilst there was
broad agreement on the ranking of importance for the various descriptive
attributes, differences between the two sectors are revealed relating to
risk, previous experience, evaluation criteria in the bidding documents
and effect of public opinion. A better understanding of what is important
to each party in the negotiations is an important step in improving the
PPP process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 967-978
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Public-private partnerships, negotiation, consortium, public sector, procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241471
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000241471
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:967-978
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick McCloughan
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: McCloughan
Title: Construction sector concentration: evidence from Britain
Abstract:
For the first time, empirical estimates of concentration in the British
construction sector are provided. The research adds value to published
DETR/DTI data on the structure of British construction by applying a novel
technique for estimating the concentration ratio proposed by McCloughan
and Abounoori (MA) (2003). The MA method is applied because the data are
grouped and simple summing of the largest market shares is not possible in
this case. Results are provided on the trends in aggregate concentration
(1971-99), concentration by main trades (1980-98) and concentration by
specialist trades (1980-99). The first main finding is that aggregate
concentration is low in British construction. This confirms the popular
view, namely that construction is a fragmented sector, with the vast
majority of private contractors operating at a small scale. The second
main result is that concentration among main trades is also low. However,
the same cannot be said of concentration among specialist trades - the
third main result. The analysis shows that certain specialist trades
(scaffolding specialists, asphalt and tar sprayers, constructional
engineers, insulation specialists and demolition specialists) are
relatively concentrated, even in the context of a national geographic
market. These specialist trades experienced sharp rises in concentration
in the latter half of the 1990s. The results suggest that the British
construction sector is dynamic and comprises many diverse markets in terms
of their levels and trends in concentration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 979-990
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: construction, aggregate, market concentration,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000209396
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000209396
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:979-990
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Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Title: The work-life experiences of office and site-based employees in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
A survey was conducted among employees of a large Australian construction
firm. Comparisons were made between employees who differed by gender and
work location. Male employees in site-based roles reported significantly
higher levels of work to family conflict and emotional exhaustion than
male employees who worked in the regional or head office. Site-based male
employees were also less satisfied with their pay than male respondents
who worked in the regional of head office. Few significant differences
were found between women who worked in different locations. Neither were
significant differences between men and women who worked in the same
location reported. The results are explained in terms of women's tendency
to work in administrative, secretarial or support services roles, which
typically demand fewer hours. The paper concludes that the experiences of
site-based construction employees, particularly men, warrant further
attention to explore the sources of work-life imbalance and burnout.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 991-1002
Issue: 9
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Keywords: Construction, work-family conflict, burnout, job satisfaction, social exchange,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241444
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:9:p:991-1002
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A.H. BOUSSABAINE
Author-X-Name-First: A.H.
Author-X-Name-Last: BOUSSABAINE
Author-Name: R.J. KIRKHAM
Author-X-Name-First: R.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: KIRKHAM
Title: Simulation of maintenance costs in UK local authority sport centres
Abstract:
The costs of building maintenance, particularly in
high-demand public sector facilities, can account for a significant
proportion of the whole life cycle costs. The ability to accurately
predict these maintenance costs can provide an essential management tool
during the operational stages. A thorough investigation of existing
techniques and metrics to predict these costs provides the basis of this
research, which proposes an innovative simulation-based approach to
maintenance costs modelling in UK local authority sports buildings. The
results obtained show that gross floor area, swimming pool size, and the
number of users are the critical factors influencing maintenance costs in
sport centre buildings. Probabilistic representations of these variables
are used in a stochastic cost-forecasting model, which reveals that the
Weibull distribution is suitable for representing the maintenance cost
function. The results are validated through the application of the
Kolmogrov-Smirnov test, the importance of this test, and the data
pre-analysis used in the construction and validation of the input
probability distributions, are also discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1011-1020
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2004.10800485
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2004.10800485
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:10:p:1011-1020
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie W. L. Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie W. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Contractor selection using the analytic network process
Abstract:
Contractor selection is one of the main activities of
clients. Without a proper and accurate method for selecting the most
appropriate contractor, the performance of the project will be affected.
The multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) is suggested to be a viable
method for contractor selection. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) has
been used as a tool for MCDM. However, AHP can only be employed in
hierarchical decision models. For complicated decision problems, the
analytic network process (ANP) is highly recommended since ANP allows
interdependent influences specified in the model. An example is
demonstrated to illustrate how this method is conducted, including the
formation of supermatrix and the limit matrix.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1021-1032
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202852
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000202852
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:10:p:1021-1032
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence T. T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence T. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: The antecedents of co-operative behaviour among project team members: an alternative perspective on an old issue
Abstract:
Poor project performance is generally attributed to a lack of
co-operation between project participants. Much work is directed towards
understanding the structural and organizational antecedents of
co-operation, but little in understanding how socio-psychological factors
affect individual co-operative behaviour. Using social identity theory,
this study attempts to fill this research gap by arguing that individuals
define their self-concepts through the organizations with which they
identify and that these identity-based forces are the basis for the
development of co-operative behaviour. Empirical findings using responses
from 398 senior executives of construction firms substantiate this
argument, as individuals with strong organizational identity are indeed
more psychologically predisposed to behave co-operatively. There are
grounds to propose that organizational identity should be used in
conjunction with other tangible economic incentives as effective
mechanisms for improving individual co-operation. Therefore, rigorous
attempts by construction firms to foster such identity may prove fruitful
to overall project performance. Further research is needed to explore how
it may impact on other important aspects of co-operation such as decision
making and problem solving processes within the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1033-1045
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190310001649092
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190310001649092
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Reay-Chen Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Reay-Chen
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Tien-Fu Liang
Author-X-Name-First: Tien-Fu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liang
Title: Project management decisions with multiple fuzzy goals
Abstract:
In real-world situations, the project managers must handle
conflicting goals that govern the use of the resources within
organizations. These conflicting goals must are required to be optimized
simultaneously by the project managers in the framework of fuzzy
aspiration levels. The multiple fuzzy goals programming model proposed
herein helps project managers to minimize project total costs, total
completion time, and total crashing costs considering direct costs,
indirect costs, contractual penalty costs, duration of activities and
total budget constraint. A numerical example illustrates the feasibility
of applying the proposed model to a project management decision problem.
Consequently, the proposed model yields an efficient compromise solution
and the decision maker's overall degree of satisfaction with determined
multiple fuzzy goals values. Moreover, the proposed model effectively
provides a systematic decision-making framework, enabling a decision maker
to interactively modify the fuzzy data and model parameters until a
satisfactory solution is obtained. The significant characteristics that
differentiate the proposed model from the other models include flexible
decision-making processes, multiple objective functions, and wide-ranging
decision information.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1047-1056
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241453
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000241453
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Georg Herrmann
Author-X-Name-First: Georg
Author-X-Name-Last: Herrmann
Title: Cost vs. production: labour deployment and productivity in social housing construction in England, Scotland, Denmark and Germany
Abstract:
Labour deployment on representative large-scale housing
projects is analysed to reveal distinct differences between England,
Germany, Scotland and Denmark. In the light of the debates on
convergence/divergence of HRM systems and qualitatively different
production systems, the paper is apposite in demonstrating structural
differences in the organization of the construction process, their
implications for efficiency and productivity, and their impact on
employment and contract relations, innovation and skills. The effects of
the overriding cost rationale of the British system are illustrated in
terms of labour deployment and the efficiency and productivity of the site
construction process. Labour deployment is based on the rationale of
extensive subcontracting, with main contractors providing the management
and cost function whilst their productive capacity rests on subcontracting
supply chains. The main contractor has come to specialize in two areas,
costing and the management of the process. Subcontractors provide all
production personnel and thus the production knowledge for carrying out
the work packages and stages. On the continent, in contrast, the economic
rationale is different, as main contractors do not depend nearly as much
on the production capacity of subcontracting.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1057-1066
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213300
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000213300
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick T.I. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick T.I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Mohan M. Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: S.Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S.Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: The use of construction specifications in Singapore
Abstract:
Singapore announced its Construction 21 Blueprint in 1999,
which included quality improvement as one of the many initiatives aimed at
making the construction industry more competitive and efficient. This has
culminated in the development of the National Productivity and Quality
Specification (NPQS), which was meant to provide a benchmark of desirable
quality standards for construction works in Singapore. A survey was
carried out in late 2002 before the launch of the NPQS to investigate the
use of specifications in the then Singapore construction industry. A
representative cross section of samples was taken to include clients,
consultants and contractors in both the public and private sectors. Whilst
interestingly different perceptions of the respondents were captured, the
survey results show that there is indeed scope for improvement from both
the drafting and usage viewpoints. On the drafting side, lack of
co-ordination, ambiguities, irrelevant clauses and inappropriate standards
were the frequently cited problems. On the usage side, specifications were
not used as rigorous as they should be for controlling quality of works on
site. Clients, in particular, were concerned with the late approvals of
alternative material proposals. These findings point to the need for extra
care and attention on the preparation and use of specifications as
important project control documents, which always form part of the
contracts executed in Singapore.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1067-1079
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213265
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000213265
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:10:p:1067-1079
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Igal M. Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Author-Name: Monica Paciuk
Author-X-Name-First: Monica
Author-X-Name-Last: Paciuk
Title: Service life prediction of exterior cladding components under standard conditions
Abstract:
An empirical method was developed for the prediction of the
service life of building components, based on an evaluation of their
actual performance and on the identification of failure mechanisms
affecting their durability. The service life of exterior components
subjected to normal service conditions is predicted. Four types of
exterior claddings are exemplified: cementitious mortar, synthetic
rendering, ceramic mosaic, and wet-fixing stone cladding. The proposed
prediction models yield high degrees of fit to the data
(R -super-2 in the range of 0.86 to 0.93
at a 0.0001 level of significance). Life cycle costs (LCC) analysis -
following service-life prediction results - leads to the conclusion that
maintenance and replacements costs account for 10-80% of initial capital
costs. Synthetic rendering exhibited the highest LCC effectiveness,
reflecting durability and low capital costs. The method can be used for
planning preventive maintenance, evaluating economic implications of
failures, and planning service life.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1081-1090
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000213274
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000213274
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:10:p:1081-1090
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Andrew Saunders
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Saunders
Title: Occupational rehabilitation in the construction industry of Victoria
Abstract:
A survey of construction companies' secondary disability
management practices was undertaken in the state of Victoria, Australia.
The results indicate that formal rehabilitation and return-to-work
programmes and practices are not adopted in many companies. Smaller
construction firms were less likely to have adopted formal programmes or
practices than medium-to-large firms. In particular, construction
companies reported difficulties in the provision of suitable alternate or
light duties for workers returning to work following an injury. Most
companies regarded disability management practices to have increased
operating costs while yielding little or no benefit in terms of reducing
lost workdays. Strategies to overcome some of these impediments to
rehabilitation and return-to-work in construction are recommended.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1091-1101
Issue: 10
Volume: 22
Year: 2004
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241426
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619042000241426
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:22:y:2004:i:10:p:1091-1101
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Kirkham
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Kirkham
Title: Re-engineering the whole life cycle costing process
Abstract:
The application of Whole Life Cycle Costing (WLCC) within the
construction industry is rapidly increasing; notwithstanding, the
underlying methodology of many WLCC models is variable and inconsistent.
The deficiency in detailed recording of decisions based on WLCC analyses
is a particular concern and moreover, attempts to capture the data related
to these decisions are not evident. Data capture is vital in facilitating
the iterative and logical application of WLCC. In an attempt to
re-engineer the WLCC design process, the evolving research described
hereinafter reports on the development of the 'Logbook', a WLCC model
decision-support software application. The application works
simultaneously with a WLCC model to provide the designers of buildings
with a repository of decision data (via the WLCC model), and a sequential,
chronological record of the decisions made based on this data - from
inception through to final design optimization. It is anticipated that the
software will encourage the application of WLCC models as an iterative
rather than retrospective process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 9-14
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: whole life cycle costing, design process, data collection, decision-making, cost modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001678765
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: K. C. Ying
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ying
Author-Name: M. Anson
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Anson
Author-Name: M. Lu
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: RMCSIM: A simulation model of a ready-mixed concrete plant serving multiple sites using multiple truckmixers
Abstract:
A simulation computer program named RMCSIM has been developed to simulate
a whole day of activities for a concrete plant with N mixing bays, M
truckmixers (with two different capacities: 5 m3 and 7 m3) serving S
sites, where sites are at variable distances D from the plant and variable
quantities Q are required by the sites in which different placing methods
are used. It is developed based on a set of data which has been reported
earlier in another paper (Anson et al., 2002). An optimal number of
truckmixers for a particular day's order size can be found from the
results of the simulations. The optimal volume of concrete that a
truckmixer carries on any one day is found to be about 27 m3 in Hong Kong
situations. It is also found that a two mixing bay concrete plant always
provides better services than a one mixing bay plant. The mix combinations
of 5 m3 and 7 m3 truckmixers in the fleet have no significant effect on
concreting service performance. Lastly, it can be deduced that the causes
of unsatisfactory concrete delivery performance are most likely due to
site managers' difficulties in precise planning rather than the scheduling
at the concrete plant.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 15-31
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Ready-mixed, concrete, plant, truckmixers, construction, sites, optimal, Monte Carlo, simulation, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619032000124661
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Sai-On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai-On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Critical stressors influencing construction estimators in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The main task of contractors' estimators is to predict the likely costs
involved in executing a future project. This is an onerous job as any
errors made can undermine project success and ultimately reduce the
contractors' profit margins. The inherent uncertainty of most construction
work, however, together with the often very short time periods involved,
make errors unavoidable. Unsurprisingly, therefore, estimation is
considered to be a very stressful business. To identify the nature of the
stress involved, a survey of construction estimators in Hong Kong was
conducted. Using correlation analysis, regression analysis and structural
equation modelling, the relationships amongst the causes (stressors or
stress factors) and effects (stress) were examined and a causal structural
model developed. The results indicate work overload, role conflict, job
ambiguity, and working environment to be the most critical stressors, with
work underload and distrust being the main indirectly influencing factors.
These results are similar to those of a previous study with site managers,
suggesting that job ambiguity and work overload are the common problem in
the construction industry. The study of the manageability of stress is
expected to inspire other similar research involving other professionals
in the construction industry. This is expected to be of particular
significance in the long-term development of stress management in the
industry in general.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 33-44
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, cost estimators, Hong Kong, stress, stressors, structural equation modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001678099
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190410001678099
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:33-44
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Determining the relationship between fee structure and project performance between firms: an empirical study based on institutional and task environment perspectives
Abstract:
Construction firms, under the influence of different dynamic
institutional and task environment forces, are likely to have differing
perceptions about the determinants of project performance. To test this
proposition, this study uses institutional and task environment frameworks
to investigate specifically the relationship between fee structure and
project performance across different construction firms. Despite anecdotal
evidence suggesting that such a relationship exists, empirical results
based on data collected from 398 construction firms in Hong Kong did not
support this assertion. However, by further modelling the differences
across firms, the results indicate that firms on the whole regard other
task environment factors as more important to project performance compared
to institutional factors. Based on follow-up interviews, suggestions as to
why this may be the case point to the fact that firms feel they can
exercise greater business control on the capitalization, enhancement, and
management of various task environment resources than they can on
institutional ones. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for
researchers to be cognizant of the benefits of integrating both task
environment and institutional factors and understand how they affect
project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-56
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Institutional factors, task environment factors, fee, project performance, hierarchical regression modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287796
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000287796
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:45-56
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rajat Roy
Author-X-Name-First: Rajat
Author-X-Name-Last: Roy
Author-Name: Margaret Low
Author-X-Name-First: Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Low
Author-Name: John Waller
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Waller
Title: Documentation, standardization and improvement of the construction process in house building
Abstract:
There is growing interest in the industrialization of house building
methods in the UK. Much of the focus has been on the use of manufactured
structural components, which addresses the inherent problems of reliance
on 'wet trades' but not of the quality and efficiency of the assembly and
'fitting' processes on site. The house building process has tended to
develop more through custom and practice rather than formal analysis of
methods. There is a lack of standards, and of mechanisms for process
review or sharing knowledge and good practice. The result is significant
process variability on site. Process documentation is a rigorous
description of a process, procedure or policy to facilitate training, and
development of consistency of operations and standards. The paper presents
work on a process documentation system, and discusses the organizational
changes needed to create the cultural environment for process
standardization and improvement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 57-67
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: house building, build process, information system, change management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287787
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000287787
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:57-67
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rumit Mehta
Author-X-Name-First: Rumit
Author-X-Name-Last: Mehta
Author-Name: Larry Bridwell
Author-X-Name-First: Larry
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridwell
Title: Innovative construction technology for affordable mass housing in Tanzania, East Africa
Abstract:
Building affordable housing with adequate structural safety is very
important in the developing world. New technology, specifically the Terra
Block Fabricator, has the advantage of using local soil and labour to
create high quality building blocks. An interesting country in which to
examine the potential of this technology is Tanzania because it has had a
fascinating history of evolving democratically from socialism to a market
economy. Using environmentally appropriate technology can energize local
sustainable economic growth by stimulating market demand for improved
housing and raising the standard of living in low-income countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 69-79
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: housing, Africa, construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287769
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:69-79
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Author-Name: Tabarak Ballal
Author-X-Name-First: Tabarak
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballal
Title: The diffusion of innovations within a UKCI context: an explanatory framework
Abstract:
The UK Construction Industry has been criticized for being slow to change
and adopt innovations. The idiosyncrasies of participants, their roles in
a social system and the contextual differences between sections of the UK
Construction Industry are viewed as being paramount to explaining
innovation diffusion within this context. Three innovation diffusion
theories from outside construction management literature are introduced,
Cohesion, Structural Equivalence and Thresholds. The relevance of each
theory, in relation to the UK Construction Industry, is critically
reviewed using literature and empirical data. Analysis of the data results
in an explanatory framework being proposed. The framework introduces a
Personal Awareness Threshold concept, highlights the dominant role of
Cohesion through the main stages of diffusion, together with the use of
Structural Equivalence during the later stages of diffusion and the
importance of Adoption Threshold levels.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 81-91
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: awareness threshold, cohesion, diffusion of innovations, networks, polymorphic, structural equivalence, thresholds,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287750
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:81-91
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vacharapoom Benjaoran
Author-X-Name-First: Vacharapoom
Author-X-Name-Last: Benjaoran
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Author-Name: Brian Hobbs
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Hobbs
Title: Flowshop scheduling model for bespoke precast concrete production planning
Abstract:
Bespoke precast concrete products are particularly designed and custom
made for a construction project. The production planning of these products
is complicated that considers important concerns, i.e. the reliability of
the product delivery programme, the short lead-time competitiveness, and
the effective utilization of purpose-built precast moulds. The planning
has a high impact on the success of the production. The characteristics of
the bespoke precast production are formulated with the flowshop scheduling
technique so that an effective production plan can be arranged to meet
these concerns. Genetic algorithm is used in the scheduling optimization.
Its multi-objective function includes total flowtime, total machine idle
time, and total tardiness and earliness. After the model formulation,
sensitivity analyses are conducted on the three model's parameters namely
the number of mould availability, the processing time changes, and the
weighting of the multi-objective function. The proposed model is
anticipated to support the planners to arrange economic and efficient
production plans. Also, it can be used to determine the suitable number of
moulds, the accuracy of the processing time estimation, and the weighting
strategy of the multi-objective optimization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 93-105
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: flowshop scheduling, bespoke precast concrete, production planning, genetic algorithm,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287732
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:93-105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Theo Haupt
Author-X-Name-First: Theo
Author-X-Name-Last: Haupt
Author-Name: Meenakshi Munshi
Author-X-Name-First: Meenakshi
Author-X-Name-Last: Munshi
Author-Name: John Smallwood
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Smallwood
Title: HIV and AIDS in South African construction: is age nothing but a number?
Abstract:
Recently the South African government introduced new legislation to
regulate the construction industry and, in particular, redistribute the
responsibility for construction worker safety and health to include all
industry participants. Consequently, the need to maintain and promote
construction workers' health and working capacity has been given an
increased prominence. Considering that the highest rates of new infections
are reportedly occurring on the African continent, the fight against HIV
and AIDS in the workplace has become an African priority. A comparative
assessment is carried out on the levels of knowledge, perceptions and
beliefs, and behaviours of construction workers in South Africa relative
to HIV infection and AIDS. The levels of knowledge and awareness of HIV
and AIDS among construction workers younger than 40 years of age ('younger
workers') are compared with those of workers older than 40 years ('older
workers'). A regional exploratory study commenced in August 2002. Both age
cohorts of construction workers generally had acceptable levels of
knowledge, perceptions and attitudes on most issues relative to the
disease. However, several areas are highlighted where they had deficient
knowledge and attitudes or demonstrated high levels of uncertainty.
Overall, younger workers had lower levels of uncertainty and deficient
knowledge. There were several areas where these were common irrespective
of age. These are the areas that deserve urgent employer driven
interventions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 107-119
Issue: 1
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: HIV, AIDS, construction workers, South Africa, attitude, behaviour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000301366
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:1:p:107-119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: C. M. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: W. C. Lee
Author-X-Name-First: W. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Title: Application of the entropy technique and genetic algorithms to construction site layout planning of medium-size projects
Abstract:
Genetic algorithms (GAs) have been introduced into site layout planning
as reported in a number of studies. In these studies, the objective
functions were defined so as to employ the GAs in searching for the
optimal site layout. However, few studies have been carried out to
investigate the actual closeness of relationships between site facilities;
it is these relationships that ultimately govern the site layout. This
study has determined that the underlying factors of site layout planning
for medium-size projects include work flow, personnel flow, safety and
environment, and personal preferences. By finding the weightings on these
factors and the corresponding closeness indices between each facility, a
closeness relationship has been deduced. Two contemporary mathematical
approaches - fuzzy logic theory and an entropy measure - were adopted in
finding these results in order to minimize the uncertainty and vagueness
of the collected data and improve the quality of the information. GAs were
then applied to searching for the optimal site layout in a medium-size
government project using the GeneHunter software. The objective function
involved minimizing the total travel distance. An optimal layout was
obtained within a short time. This reveals that the application of GA to
site layout planning is highly promising and efficient.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 127-145
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Site-layout, entropy, genetic algorithm, decision-making,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202834
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:127-145
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Javier Cuervo
Author-X-Name-First: Javier
Author-X-Name-Last: Cuervo
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Significance of internalization factors for Singapore transnational construction corporations
Abstract:
Singapore Transnational Construction Corporations (STCCs) are engaged in
foreign value-added construction-related activities in foreign markets. A
survey was undertaken to assess the significant factors that serve as
reasons for STCCs to benefit from their internalization advantages. The
protection of the reputation of the firm and the quality of service to
clients were the two related and more important reasons for
internalization. STCCs with greater international presence also stressed
on avoiding the costs of broken contracts and ensuing litigations as an
incentive for internalization. Regardless of the size, years of
international experience, or whether specialized or diversified, STCCs
viewed the ranking order of seventeen internalization factors to be
significantly the same. Besides controlling costs, managers of STCCs will
do well by guaranteeing the quality of works to foreign clients to
maintain and enhance further the reputation of the firm and contribute
positively to the Singapore brand name.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 147-162
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: internalization factors, international construction, Singapore transnational construction corporations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144609042000287723
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:147-162
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ayirebi Dansoh
Author-X-Name-First: Ayirebi
Author-X-Name-Last: Dansoh
Title: Strategic planning practice of construction firms in Ghana
Abstract:
In Ghana, the operating environment for construction firms is constantly
changing in the face of a volatile economic environment, shifting
political climate and a highly competitive market. Confronted with such
instability, companies need strategic planning to combat the threat to
their survival. A survey was conducted to determine how widespread
strategic planning is used as a management tool by contractors in Ghana.
Construction firms with classification A1B1, A2B2, D1 and D2 were used in
the survey. Only 8.5% of D2 firms use strategic planning. The other firms
have a combined average of 86.7%. Civil engineering contractors are far
ahead of the building contractors in the practice of strategic planning.
Strategic plans are drawn to cover an average of three years. There is an
urgent need for contractors in the D2 class to be encouraged to seek
insight into strategic planning and employ the technique to enhance their
chances of surviving risks in the business environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 163-168
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Strategic planning, construction, management, environment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000241435
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:163-168
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jacqueline Glass
Author-X-Name-First: Jacqueline
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Title: A best practice process model for hybrid concrete construction
Abstract:
The term 'hybrid concrete construction' (HCC) is used to describe the
combination of concrete construction methods, e.g. in-situ concrete and
precast concrete, with one another or with other materials, e.g. steel.
Although it could be argued that most buildings employ such combinations,
HCC is the deliberate integration of different construction techniques to
achieve a cost, speed or other performance benefit. UK government has been
concerned that the construction industry suffers from poor management and
exchange of tacit knowledge which can disappear after project teams 'break
up'. The completion of several innovative and high profile HCC projects
was considered to be a major opportunity to capture project teams' tacit
knowledge in this area. The objective of the research was to compile a
best practice process model, such that project teams could be better
informed as to their roles and responsibilities and thus be better
equipped to deliver a building to the client's satisfaction, by using HCC.
Interviews and knowledge capture workshops were used to extract lessons
that lay embedded in both individuals and teams. The main conclusions were
that successful HCC projects were characterized for example, by the
development of an ethos of trust, the early involvement of specialists
(such as precasters) and the effective management of both tacit and
explicit knowledge. The research builds on previous work in the area by
identifying best practice information on design, specification and
construction factors for HCC and, in addition, some transferable lessons
on knowledge capture techniques.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 169-184
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, reinforced concrete, process, hybrid, knowledge capture, precast,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326756
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:169-184
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roger Hosein
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosein
Author-Name: Timothy Michael Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: Quantifying the relationship between aggregate GDP and construction value added in a small petroleum rich economy - a case study of Trinidad and Tobago
Abstract:
The relationship between gross domestic product and the output of the
construction industry is quantified, using as a case study the economy of
Trinidad and Tobago (T&T). A historical perspective is used in order that
anomalies can be set within the context of the relevant time and
circumstances. Because the economy of Trinidad and Tobago is highly
dependent on oil and gas revenues, the relationships between construction
value added, GDP and oil and gas industry parameters are also included. In
nearly all instances there are positive relationships between the
parameters examined, and values for the various correlation coefficients
have been obtained. An examination of causal factors obtained from a
cumulative experience analysis also establishes that the direction of
causality runs from the changes in GDP to the increase in construction
value added, both at the aggregate level and at the per capita level. A
similar positive relationship and direction of temporal causality is
apparent between oil and gas revenues (and prices) and construction value
added. These relationships are untypical, as smaller developing economies
that do not have oil resources would be expected to show negative
correlations for these relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 185-197
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Gross Domestic Product, Construction, Energy industries, Cumulative experience, correlation analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287741
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:185-197
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei-Chih Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Wei-Chih
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Ren-Jye Dzeng
Author-X-Name-First: Ren-Jye
Author-X-Name-Last: Dzeng
Title: Applying cluster identification algorithm and simulation to generate probabilistic network schedules for design projects
Abstract:
Scheduling of a design project is complex because design activities often
have information dependencies between each other. This study proposes a
network-based model to schedule design projects and generate probabilistic
project durations. The proposed model applies a modified cluster
identification algorithm to evaluate information dependencies between
design activities to facilitate the establishment of a schedule network
(and regroup activities to support the assignment of design work); it also
uses a simulation approach to incorporate the effect on duration of the
uncertain number of design iterations. The model is implemented in four
stages, which are breaking down the design work; evaluating the
dependencies; identifying concurrent activities; and estimating the
durations of activities and simulating the duration of design project. The
advantages of the proposed model are demonstrated through its application
to an example project, which was reviewed by industrial practitioners.
Practitioners felt that the generated detailed scheduling data could help
them to control their design work more precisely than a bar chart.
Additionally, the simulated probabilistic project duration provided them
with an awareness of the risk involved in meeting the contractual
deadline.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 199-213
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Cluster identification algorithm, design schedule, information dependency, simulation, and project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000301393
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:199-213
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. D. Mainul Islam
Author-X-Name-First: M. D. Mainul
Author-X-Name-Last: Islam
Author-Name: Olusegun Faniran
Author-X-Name-First: Olusegun
Author-X-Name-Last: Faniran
Title: Structural equation model of project planning effectiveness
Abstract:
Previous research studies investigating the impact of situational
variables on project planning effectiveness have not examined how the
situational variables work together to influence planning effectiveness. A
structural equation model (SEM) has been developed for describing and
quantifying the influence of situational factors in project environments
and organizational characteristics of performing organizations on project
planning effectiveness. The individual effects of directly-observable
variables on the project planning process were evaluated using regression
analysis. The SEM approach enables the modelling of multiple factors as
latent not-directly-measurable variable sets, thus providing a theoretical
insight into how individual influence factors work together to determine
the effectiveness of project planning efforts. The project environment has
a dominant significant influence on the potential effectiveness of project
planning efforts. In contrast, the influence of organizational
characteristics is relatively insignificant.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-223
Issue: 2
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Project management, project planning, planning effectiveness, structural equation modelling, Australia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000301384
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:2:p:215-223
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Søren Spangenberg
Author-X-Name-First: Søren
Author-X-Name-Last: Spangenberg
Author-Name: Harald Hannerz
Author-X-Name-First: Harald
Author-X-Name-Last: Hannerz
Author-Name: Finn Tuchsen
Author-X-Name-First: Finn
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuchsen
Title: Hospitalized injuries among bridge and tunnel construction workers
Abstract:
The aim of the present study was to compare relative risks for
hospitalizing injuries among 7761 Danish workers engaged in the
construction of different types of major tunnel and bridge traffic links
during 1991-2000 in order to determine construction types with high injury
risk. Standardized hospitalization ratios (SHR) for injuries were
calculated by type of construction (low-level bridge, high-level bridge,
bored tunnel and submerged tunnel). All employed males in the total
population of Denmark were used as the standard population. Neither the
SHR nor the distribution of injury types were independent of the
construction type (p<0.05). The hospitalization ratio was highest for
bored tunnel workers (SHR = 1.91; 95% CI: 1.65-2.21) and
here toxic gases and smoke were a major problem, whereas head injuries
were more frequent among workers engaged in other types of construction.
The substantial variation in SHR values with construction type might be an
argument for inclusion of workers safety in pre-project decision making.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-240
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Bored tunnel, heavy construction, injury distribution, occupational risk assessment, pre-project decision, toxic gasses and smoke,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041503
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:237-240
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Alan Bryman
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Bryman
Author-Name: Andrew Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: Kay Greasley
Author-X-Name-First: Kay
Author-X-Name-Last: Greasley
Author-Name: Robby Soetanto
Author-X-Name-First: Robby
Author-X-Name-Last: Soetanto
Author-Name: Nicola King
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: King
Title: Project affinity: the role of emotional attachment in construction projects
Abstract:
Although a wide range of human and organizational factors have been found
to be important in the operation of projects, those determined by cultural
variables are less well defined. One such influence concerns the notion of
'project affinity', the commitment and attachment by stakeholders and
participants to projects and their outcomes. The temporal nature and
transient involvement context provided by construction projects arguably
presents a climate in which many participants are less likely to display
commitment to its goals. This note is concerned with the issue of whether
an attachment to a project's goals or to the completed product can lead to
improved commitment among those involved. The concept of project affinity
was developed in the course of a case study investigation in which
operatives' attitudes towards the construction of a cancer research
facility were explored. Because of the contribution of the facility to the
future care of cancer sufferers, the concept of project affinity proved
helpful in understanding a factor that appeared to be influencing the
commitment of those involved. The results suggest a complementary concept
to that of 'project chemistry' (c.f. Nicolini, 2002).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 241-244
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: organizational citizenship behaviour, performance, project affinity, project chemistry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040596
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:241-244
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: Tony Lau
Author-X-Name-First: Tony
Author-X-Name-Last: Lau
Author-Name: K. K. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: K. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Selection of vertical formwork system by probabilistic neural networks models
Abstract:
A good formwork system enables speedy completion of the concrete
structure, following which other subsequent trades can be started.
However, the current intuitive judgment approach in the selection of
formwork systems cannot assure an optimal and consistent result.
Artificial neural networks may improve the selection process. Formwork
represents a significant part of the cost of concrete structure
construction. Most subsequent trades including internal finishing and
external cladding depend on the completion of the building structure. A
suitable formwork system is thus crucial for maintaining the smooth flow
of the various trades and a proper working sequence of various work
activities. Based on data collected from a previous study, it is clear
that the key factors affecting the selection of a relevant formwork system
include building height and structural system, concrete finish, site
conditions, availability of equipment and building shape. Neural network
models are developed for the selection of vertical formwork systems using
the architecture of the probabilistic neural network (PNN) model. A case
study verifies the validity of this approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 245-254
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Formwork selection, PNN, probabilistic neural network,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000205912
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:245-254
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cheng Lianyu
Author-X-Name-First: Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lianyu
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Title: Minimum feasible tariff model for BOT water supply projects in Malaysia
Abstract:
A key issue in implementing water supply projects based on the build,
operate and transfer approach is risk allocation. Project risks should be
allocated to the best competent party through proper contractual
arrangements or through government support so as to achieve a low water
tariff. The details of tariff design in BOT water supply projects are
identified, and a minimum feasible tariff model is proposed for effective
risk allocation arrangements. Risk analysis based on a real project in
Malaysia is performed to demonstrate the application of the simulation
model on the key factors of inflation, exchange rates and demand risk. The
analysis shows that for inflation risk, a pre-set tariff adjustment
formula is useful in lowering minimum feasible tariff. For exchange rate
risk, the reference rate should be set lower than the best estimate.
Lowering of minimum feasible tariff can also be achieved if the tariff for
additional demand is lower than the tariff for guaranteed demand.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 255-263
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: BOT, water supply project, risk allocation, tariff-at-risk, minimum feasible tariff,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287778
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000287778
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:255-263
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henry Hsieh
Author-X-Name-First: Henry
Author-X-Name-Last: Hsieh
Title: The 1990s Taiwan residential construction boom: a supply side interpretation
Abstract:
An unprecedented boom in Taiwanese residential unit production is
described and explained as a supply side phenomenon. Unit construction
tripled from 1991 to 1993 and maintained that level for two years before
falling back to normal levels. The existence of a peak in real production
is identified from production data and considered as supply-side
phenomenon. The evidence includes a strong growth in development loans
(supply side) compared to house purchase loans (demand side), and a
considerable rise in vacancy rates after the Peak. This supply side
interpretation is further examined within single equation and simultaneous
equation econometric models. This Peak is seen as precipitated by the
interaction of the announcement of a new housing regulation (volume
control) and an increase in development credit availability. These two
events far outweighed demand side considerations for developers. An
indirect method of estimation within a unit completions equation indicates
that volume control significantly influenced construction. Conversely
selling price was insignificant, consistent with the supply side
interpretation. A construction approvals equation supports these
conclusions. Other equations explain prices and vacancies. The model was
cast in the form of a demand and supply for new completions rather than
for total units in order to explain production.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 265-284
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Developers, Taiwan, residential construction, supply side, the peak,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000202717
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:265-284
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: P. A. Koushki
Author-X-Name-First: P. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Koushki
Author-Name: K. Al-Rashid
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Rashid
Author-Name: N. Kartam
Author-X-Name-First: N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kartam
Title: Delays and cost increases in the construction of private residential projects in Kuwait
Abstract:
Time-delays and cost-increases associated with the construction of
private residential projects in the State of Kuwait are determined. A
person-interview survey of 450 randomly selected private residential
project owners and developers in 27 representative districts in
metropolitan Kuwait formed the database for the study. The socio-economic
traits of the owners/developers, and the pre-construction family planning,
the design, and the construction phases of the sample projects are
presented. Estimates of time-delays and cost-increases are made, and their
causes identified. The three main causes of time-delays included changing
orders, owners' financial constraints and owners' lack of experience in
the construction business. Regarding cost overruns, the three main causes
were identified as contractor-related problems, material-related problems
and, again, owners' financial constraints. A number of recommendations end
the paper. The minimization of time delays and cost overruns in private
residential projects would require: the availability of adequate funds,
allocation of sufficient time and money at the design phase, and selection
of a competent consultant and a reliable contractor to carry out the work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 285-294
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Delay, cost increase, residential projects, Kuwait,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326710
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000326710
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:285-294
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Swee Lean Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Swee Lean
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Moonseo Park
Author-X-Name-First: Moonseo
Author-X-Name-Last: Park
Title: Project cost estimation using principal component regression
Abstract:
Factors affecting construction project cost include project-specific
factors and those reflecting the characteristics of the project team.
Multiple regression is often used to estimate a project's cost, but
independent variables with a high degree of correlation are likely be left
out of such a model. As a result, only a limited number of factors are
included in the estimate of project cost and predictions from such models
will not be accurate. To overcome this technical inefficiency, the aims of
this study are: to identify factors that contribute to project cost, to
construct a predictive project cost model using the principal component
technique and to assess the relative importance of determining factors.
The data are obtained from a random sample survey comprised of Singapore
building projects completed after 1992 costing more than US$5 million in
value. Three main groups of variables are identified, pertaining to
characteristics of the project, contractors and owner/consultants. Special
project requirements such as high technological level; contractor's
specialized skills; and public administered contract have significant
effects on cost. Other factors include contractor's technical expertise;
owner's level of construction sophistication and contractor's financial
management ability. The model assesses the impact of individual factors on
project cost and provides a decision support tool to estimate cost more
accurately.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 295-304
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: factors, principal component regression model, project cost,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500039812
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500039812
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:295-304
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nader Abdul-Hadi
Author-X-Name-First: Nader
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Hadi
Author-Name: Abdulsalam Al-Sudairi
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulsalam
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Sudairi
Author-Name: Saleh Alqahtani
Author-X-Name-First: Saleh
Author-X-Name-Last: Alqahtani
Title: Prioritizing barriers to successful business process re-engineering (BPR) efforts in Saudi Arabian construction industry
Abstract:
Engaging in business process re-engineering (BPR) efforts could prove to
be highly rewarding for construction companies in Saudi Arabia. However,
BPR is risky and could be disastrous if not properly approached. To enable
sound BPR efforts and increase success chances, thorough investigation of
barriers is essential. This study presents 29 barriers, with their
influence (strength) on the success of BPR initiatives. Additionally,
these barriers are ranked according to the ease of overcoming each.
Finally, a graphical aid is provided to enable decision makers to
concentrate their efforts on the most influential (strongest), yet easiest
to overcome barriers. Following inadequate approach, affected people not
informed, culture of construction firms, using inappropriate tools, using
external consultants, undefined core processes, and fear and resistance to
change are the most important barriers to successful BPR endeavours.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-315
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Business process re-engineering (BPR), barriers, construction, Saudi Arabia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000301375
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000301375
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:305-315
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: Robert Ellis
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Ellis
Title: Main contractor experiences of partnering relationships on UK construction projects
Abstract:
Partnering provides a major opportunity for improving project
performance, whilst offering direct benefits to the whole of the supply
chain. Many research studies reinforce this assertion although there is
less critical analysis examining the nature of partnering in practice and
whether the claims made for it are consistently justified. The experiences
of commercial surveyors and managers within the UK construction industry
have been gathered in a pilot study, drawing on the opinions of 48
commercial managers employed by a leading national contractor. The
perceptions and experiences of partnering relationships are generally
positive, although the early optimism at the beginning of such
arrangements is seldom sustained throughout the project lifecycle.
Attitudes to partnering are similar whether the relationship is upstream
(client/main contractor) or downstream (main contractor/subcontractor).
The growth in popularity of alternative procurement methods and statutory
adjudication are both regarded as having placed contracting parties on a
more equal footing. However in today's competitive environment,
contractors continue to operate on tight margins and, common to all
project stakeholders, the financial imperative remains the commercial
manager's principal consideration. Trust is hard-earned and relationships
are still characterised by a cost driven agenda.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 317-325
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: partnering, commercial relationships, trust, procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000287714
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000287714
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:317-325
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wen-Der Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Wen-Der
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Shao-Shung Lo
Author-X-Name-First: Shao-Shung
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Title: Time-dependent construction social costs model
Abstract:
Negative impacts of construction works on local traffic, environment and
business have been pointed out by previous researchers. However, little
work has been conductd on the quantification of such costs. A
time-dependent construction social costs (COSCO) model is developed for
quantifying the negative impacts that result from construction operations
during the field execution phase. The COSCO model is a simplified but
practical model that calculates the construction social costs in a
conservative way. A roadwork construction project is used to show the
applicability of the COSCO model. It is found that the daily social cost
was US$18 188-5.52 times the project construction cost. This is a striking
illustration of management techniques for mediating the social costs of
construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 327-337
Issue: 3
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: environmental impacts, project planning, road works, social costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040281
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040281
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:3:p:327-337
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. L. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: S. Y. Wang
Author-X-Name-First: S. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: K. K. Lai
Author-X-Name-First: K. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Title: A general multivariate analysis approach for determining bid mark-up strategy
Abstract:
In choosing a bidding strategy, the original multivariate approach cannot
handle a more general and usual bidding situation when the mean value of
the bid price for the strategic bidder is not zero. This problem is solved
by extending the original approach, assuming that the cost estimate is
normally distributed with a non-zero mean value. The new obtained formula
for the probability of winning and the expected profit for the generalized
approach are proved to be not influenced by the contract datum parameters
and are suitable for determining the optimal mark-up strategy for a future
construction contract. A supplementary model is proposed and combined with
the original model to determine relevant parameters in the bid
distribution and to justify the previously originally obtained estimation
formula. Finally, the real data in the original approach is used to
demonstrate the new multivariate analysis approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 347-353
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Bid mark-up strategy, multivariate analysis, maximum likelihood estimation, sealed bid auctions, construction contract,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000190216
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000190216
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:347-353
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. P. Couto
Author-X-Name-First: J. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Couto
Author-Name: J. C. Teixeira
Author-X-Name-First: J. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Teixeira
Title: Using linear model for learning curve effect on highrise floor construction
Abstract:
The evolution of repetitive scheduling methods led to the introduction of
the learning concept in construction planning. It is common knowledge that
performing the same activity repeatedly, and in the same conditions, takes
less and less time as the activity is repeated (Gates and Scarpa, 1972).
This phenomenon is clear in many construction activities and is known as
learning experience or learning effect. The increase in productivity is
mainly due to the increasing knowledge acquired by work repetition.
Graphic representation is through a learning curve that admits duration
decreases as the activity is repeated, according to a predictable and
constant learning rate. The Linear Model of logarithmic coordinates
(log10Y = log10A - nlog10X) was applied to two repetitive
construction processes, frequently used in Portuguese construction. The
intent was to examine its applicability and efficiency in predicting
future performances, and the interest in incorporating the model in new
planning methodologies for repetitive construction. In both cases,
learning processes were created.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-364
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Learning effect, learning curve, linear model, planning construction, models, repetitive construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040505
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040505
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:355-364
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Motiar Rahman
Author-X-Name-First: M. Motiar
Author-X-Name-Last: Rahman
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: Assembling integrated project teams for joint risk management
Abstract:
Exhaustive risk allocation cannot be achieved through contract
conditions, because all risk items cannot be foreseen at the planning
stage. Effective management of unforeseen risks/events at post-contract
stage needs the collective efforts of all major contracting parties. The
attitude and motivation of project participants are critical to such
collaborative arrangements. Project 'partners' need to be conditioned,
starting with their selection processes, by incorporating appropriate
'soft' or relational qualities as important selection criteria. They would
then need to work under suitable teambuilding protocols, with flexible
contract conditions and appropriate adjustment mechanisms that would all
be tailored to suit each specific project. The theoretical construct so
developed is examined through a series of recent Hong Kong based studies
on 'joint risk management'. Results lead to the development of a framework
for building a coalesced team that includes owners, consultants,
contractors, subcontractors and suppliers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 365-375
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Integration, joint risk management, procurement, relational contracting, supply chain management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040083
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040083
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:365-375
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed Hassanein
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed
Author-X-Name-Last: Hassanein
Author-Name: Osama Moselhi
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Moselhi
Title: Accelerating linear projects
Abstract:
Scheduling linear repetitive construction projects, such as highways and
pipelines, poses unique challenges due to maintaining crew work
continuity. An efficient method is presented, developed to accelerate the
delivery of this class of projects so as to meet a specified deadline with
least associated cost. The method is simple and ensures crew work
continuity. An iterative approach is employed, where, in each iteration,
the project schedule is analysed and an activity is identified as the
controlling activity. A controlling activity is an activity that if
accelerated, would reduce project duration at least additional cost. Upon
its identification, the method selects an expediting strategy that would
reduce project duration, and the project is rescheduled. Several
expediting strategies are considered, including working overtime, double
shifts and weekends. The method is implemented in a prototype software
that operates in a Windows® environment, providing a user-friendly
graphical interface. It has an open architecture, enabling the user to
actively participate in tailoring the generated schedule to suit the
requirements of the project at hand. The proposed method accounts for
incentives and liquidated damages to aid users in identifying the most
cost-efficient schedule. A relational database model is implemented in
Microsoft Access® to store typical crews and their associated
productivity, as well as their availability dates. A project, drawn from
the literature, is analysed to demonstrate the basic features of the
proposed method and highlight its capabilities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 377-385
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Repetitive construction, acceleration, crew productivity, time-cost trade-off,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190410001673571
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190410001673571
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:377-385
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Stephen Ison
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ison
Author-Name: Geoffrey Briscoe
Author-X-Name-First: Geoffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Briscoe
Title: The construction labour market skills crisis: the perspective of small-medium-sized firms
Abstract:
Reports abound of the detrimental effect of the construction skills
crisis on the performance and future development of the UK construction
industry. The industry's continued growth in output, coupled with its
unpopularity as a career choice, has led to extreme pressure on its labour
market capacity. There remains, however, a paucity of empirical research
into the nature of its highly complex labour market. In particular, very
little attention has been paid to the impacts being felt by the smaller
firms who account for the vast majority of the industry's economic output
and employment. This paper reports on research that has explored the
perspectives of smaller employers with respect to the skills crisis. Using
an inductive methodology, this research canvassed the opinions of
representatives of small- and medium-sized (SME) firms in order to
establish the impact of skills shortages on the operational efficiency of
the industry. The paper reveals the complex interplay of factors which
have combined to shape the industry's skills crisis in recent years and
uncovers the practical implications for firms attempting to operate in
increasingly tight labour market conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-398
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, skills, labour market, SMEs, regional perspectives, policy planning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326738
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000326738
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:387-398
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Issaka Ndekugri
Author-X-Name-First: Issaka
Author-X-Name-Last: Ndekugri
Author-Name: Victoria Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Victoria
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Title: Insolvency and resolution of construction contract disputes by adjudication in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 provides that
a party to a construction contract has a right, at any time, to refer any
dispute under the contract for adjudication. This resolution method
requires a neutral third party, the adjudicator, to determine the dispute
within 28 days after receipt of the referral regardless of the complexity
of the issues in dispute. The decision is to be implemented even if it is
palpably wrong in fact or law. A key assumption of this legislation is
that any mistakes made by an adjudicator can be corrected by reference of
the same to litigation or arbitration. It is a major concern that
restoration of the parties to their correct positions may become
impossible where, after implementation of an adjudicator's mistaken
decision, the beneficiary of the decision becomes insolvent. This article
is a critical review of all the cases in which the courts have dealt with
the effect of insolvency on the right to adjudicate and the enforceability
of adjudicators' decisions. Two main conclusions are derived from the
review. First, the court may decline to enforce an adjudicator's payment
decision where there is strong evidence that, on account of formal
insolvency, the payee would be unable to make repayment if final
resolution of the dispute necessitates it. Second, the only exception so
far to the general right to refer to adjudication arises where the other
party is in administration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 399-408
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, contracts, disputes, adjudication, insolvency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326747
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000326747
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:399-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wu Min
Author-X-Name-First: Wu
Author-X-Name-Last: Min
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Economic order quantity (EOQ) versus just-in-time (JIT) purchasing: an alternative analysis in the ready-mixed concrete industry
Abstract:
The literature on the use of just-in-time (JIT) and economic order
quantity (EOQ) purchasing has increasingly favoured JIT in recent years,
especially when firms are purchasing to meet high and consistent levels of
demand, and the JIT operation can take advantage of inventory physical
plant space reduction. The theoretical advantages of JIT purchasing may
have been overstated. Two new concepts are developed to underpin the idea
that, even if the JIT approach can induce inventory physical plant space
reduction, it is possible for EOQ to be more cost effective, as the
inventory demand approaches the break-even point between the function of
the annual holding capacity of an inventory facility and the function of
the EOQ-JIT cost indifference point. The survey and case study conducted
in the ready-mixed concrete industry in Singapore support this
proposition.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-422
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Break-even point, cost indifference point, EOQ, holding capacity, inventory facility, JIT,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041339
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041339
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:409-422
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Obaid Saad Al-Sobiei
Author-X-Name-First: Obaid Saad
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Sobiei
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Gul Polat
Author-X-Name-First: Gul
Author-X-Name-Last: Polat
Title: Predicting the risk of contractor default in Saudi Arabia utilizing artificial neural network (ANN) and genetic algorithm (GA) techniques
Abstract:
The construction project is subject to several risks, one of the most
important of which is contractor default because contractor default may
increase the final project cost considerably. In the US construction
industry, owners commonly shield themselves from the risk of contractor
default by transferring this risk to the contractor, who in turn transfers
this risk to a surety company. On the other hand, the General Directorate
of Military Works (GDMW) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia retains the risk
of contractor default rather than transferring it to a third party. An
artificial neural network (ANN) and a genetic algorithm (GA) are used in
this study to predict the risk of contractor default in construction
projects undertaken for the Saudi armed forces. Based on this prediction,
the Saudi GDMW can make a decision to engage or not to engage the services
of a contractor. In case the models are not able to generate reliable
predictions (or generate contradictory outcomes), the GDMW will have to
augment its budget with contingency funds to be used in the event of
contractor default. The outcome of this study is of particular relevance
to construction owners because it proposes an approach that can allow them
to replace an indiscriminate blanket policy by a policy that is rational,
effective, prudent and economical.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 423-430
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Artificial neural networks, contractor default, genetic algorithms, prediction model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041578
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041578
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:423-430
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yiannis Xenidis
Author-X-Name-First: Yiannis
Author-X-Name-Last: Xenidis
Author-Name: Demos Angelides
Author-X-Name-First: Demos
Author-X-Name-Last: Angelides
Title: The financial risks in build-operate-transfer projects
Abstract:
The build-operate-transfer (BOT) approach for developing infrastructure
projects is a technique that allows fast realization of public works in
cases of a shortage of public funds. This process is full of risks, due
mainly to the complexity and extend of the disciplines, public agencies
and stakeholders involved. The identification, classification and
presentation of a comprehensive list of this type of risks will provide
BOT project practitioners with a useful tool in the effort of setting up
successfully a BOT concession agreement. The approach presented provides a
practical insight into 27 financial risks, which are associated with the
BOT projects in their lifecycle. This is achieved through proper
justification and description of the content of each risk. Furthermore, a
categorization of the risks is presented, according to the stage at which
they occur and the sources of their origin. The findings of this research
would facilitate the risk analysis process that is being conducted by risk
managers prior to bidding for a BOT project and during the negotiation
period.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 431-441
Issue: 4
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: BOT projects, finance, project management, risk,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041552
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041552
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:4:p:431-441
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Chan
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: R. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Monitoring financial health of contractors at the aftermath of the Asian economic turmoil: a case study in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The whole construction industry (contractors, consultants and suppliers)
is suffering from business shrinking under the prevailing deflationary
economy in Hong Kong. Local contractors are facing tremendous financial
problems. The financial situation of a typical local contractor has been
analysed for the years since 1997 - the Asian Economic Crisis. By using
the financial ratios together with one of Altman's distress models, it is
possible to monitor and assess the financial health of contractors. Based
on the results of the case study, the financial health of the contractor
under study is found satisfactory. In addition to this quantitative
analysis, it is advisable for local contractors to conduct a strategic
review for their construction industry and their business environment so
as to improve their financial performance in both the near future and
longer term.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 451-458
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Contractors, financial health, monitoring, case study, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000190207
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000190207
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:451-458
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bing Li
Author-X-Name-First: Bing
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: A. Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Author-Name: P. J. Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: P. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: C. Hardcastle
Author-X-Name-First: C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hardcastle
Title: Critical success factors for PPP/PFI projects in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly used in the United
Kingdom's public facilities and services provision through the Private
Finance Initiative (PFI). Despite some casualties, PPP/PFI projects have
been undertaken successfully, but the reasons for success are not entirely
clear. Questionnaire survey research examined the relative importance of
18 potential critical success factors (CSF) for PPP/PFI construction
projects in the UK. The results show that the three most important factors
are: 'a strong and good private consortium', 'appropriate risk allocation'
and 'available financial market'. Factor analysis revealed that
appropriate factor groupings for the 18 CSFs are: effective procurement,
project implementability, government guarantee, favourable economic
conditions and available financial market. These findings should influence
policy development towards PPPs and the manner in which partners go about
the development of PFI projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-471
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Critical success factors (CSF), factor analysis, procurement systems, PFI, PPP, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041537
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041537
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:459-471
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Nystrom
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Nystrom
Title: The definition of partnering as a Wittgenstein family-resemblance concept
Abstract:
This article on partnering and family-resemblance makes two contributions
to the debate about the definition of partnering in construction. The
first is a distinction between general prerequisites, components and goals
when discussing the concept. In order to understand what is specific about
partnering the focus should be on the components, which are identified
through a literature review. The second contribution is to apply Ludwig
Wittgenstein's idea of family-resemblance to the partnering concept. His
idea is that a complex concept can be understood as a network of
overlapping similarities. From the literature review it is concluded that
there are two necessary components in partnering - trust and mutual
understanding - and that a number of different components can be added to
form a specific variant of partnering. This provides a new method to
define the vague and multifaceted concept of partnering in a flexible and
structured way.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 473-481
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Components, construction, definition, family-resemblance, general prerequisites, goals, partnering, Wittgenstein,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040026
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:473-481
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Ellis
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Ellis
Author-Name: Gerard Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: David Keel
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Keel
Title: Value management practices of leading UK cost consultants
Abstract:
Value management (VM) is widely accepted as an important tool in the
management of projects. Through a series of semi-structured interviews,
this paper attempts to add to the qualitative exploration of VM, by
investigating the attitudes and experiences of VM facilitators within
major UK cost consultancies. Clients cut across all sectors, but
relatively few subscribe to a formal VM process. Despite the acknowledged
importance of early interventions, the focus for many VM studies tends to
be at spaces and element levels, rather than at the earlier concept level.
VM continues to be used as a cost-cutting exercise, particularly so on
projects which are experiencing problems. Formal VM rarely extends beyond
tender stage. Workshops remain the common format, but these are often
compressed, due to commercial pressures, into a half-day. Techniques are
adapted to suit the needs of the project, team and client rather than
being rigidly applied according to the theoretical approaches outlined in
the literature. The potential to integrate VM and risk management (RM)
services is recognized by all, although such integration is yet to be
fully developed and implemented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-493
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Quantity surveying practice, risk management, value management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040711
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040711
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:483-493
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: H. A. Bassioni
Author-X-Name-First: H. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bassioni
Author-Name: A. D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: A. D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: T. M. Hassan
Author-X-Name-First: T. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hassan
Title: Building a conceptual framework for measuring business performance in construction: an empirical evaluation
Abstract:
The importance of business performance measurement across industries has
elevated in the last decade in what has been described as a revolution.
Meanwhile, the construction industry has been criticised for its
underperformance and the Latham and Egan reports emphasized the need for
performance improvement and measurement. Companies have had to face the
dilemma of choosing among different performance measurement frameworks.
Hence, a need has been identified for a comprehensive framework. The aim
of this research is to fulfil this need by building a conceptual framework
for measuring the business performance of construction organizations. The
framework had been formulated in previous research upon the principles of
the Balanced Scorecard and Business Excellence Models. The research
attempts to empirically evaluate and revise the framework through a series
of expert interviews and case studies. In addition, empirical feedback has
been used to: express the revised framework in a more communicative form,
illustrate how business performance can be measured; and highlight the
differences between the proposed framework and contemporary performance
frameworks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-507
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Balanced scorecard, construction, empirical evaluation, excellence model, performance measurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000301401
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:495-507
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: C. William Ibbs
Author-X-Name-First: C. William
Author-X-Name-Last: Ibbs
Author-Name: Javier Cuervo
Author-X-Name-First: Javier
Author-X-Name-Last: Cuervo
Title: Entry and business strategies used by international architectural, engineering and construction firms in China
Abstract:
International architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) firms
need to decide on the appropriate market entry mode and business
strategies when undertaking projects overseas. The objectives of this
research are to investigate the effective market entry modes for
penetrating China and the effective business strategies for managing
projects in China. The research method is based on a structured
questionnaire and data were collected via postal survey. Interviews have
been conducted to complement the survey. The results show that
establishing a wholly owned subsidiary in China is the most effective
entry mode. Foreign AEC firms need to adopt a differentiation strategy by
providing niche and superior service. They must also pay great attention
to customer satisfaction to gain competitive advantage and clinch and
manage projects. To succeed in China, foreign AEC firms need to set up a
physical office there, to develop a good understanding of local by-laws,
understand client requirements better and therefore provide them with a
superior product or service.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-520
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: China, foreign firms, international construction, market entry mode, strategies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040141
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040141
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:509-520
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. J. Kirkham
Author-X-Name-First: R. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kirkham
Author-Name: A. H. Boussabaine
Author-X-Name-First: A. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Boussabaine
Title: Forecasting the residual service life of NHS hospital buildings: a stochastic approach
Abstract:
Service life appraisal is an important facet of the management of the NHS
estate portfolio. Existing approaches to remaining service life estimation
use simple deterministic methods, which could yield inaccurate results. An
alternative approach to forecasting the remaining life of hospital
buildings, based upon a combination of weighted average techniques and a
Markov property; the minimum of exponentials, is presented. The results
from this model were compared with those obtained by means of existing
techniques, and revealed an average percentage difference of 56.26%. This
confirms the notion that stochastic approaches in combination with
elemental weightings could yield greater accuracy. Whilst the results
obtained can be used primarily to determine the overall residual service
life of a hospital building, the model also allows the condition state
transition probabilities to be calculated at a given time. On the macro
level, this information can be used for optimization of maintenance
strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 521-529
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Service life, forecasting, minimum of exponentials, hospital buildings, probability, Markov chain, stochastic forecasting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326729
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:521-529
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tarek Zayed
Author-X-Name-First: Tarek
Author-X-Name-Last: Zayed
Author-Name: Daniel Halpin
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Halpin
Title: Deterministic models for assessing productivity and cost of bored piles
Abstract:
The assessment process of productivity and cost of bored pile
construction is dictated by unseen subsurface obstacles, lack of
contractor experience and site planning. These problems complicate the
estimator's role in evaluating pile equipment productivity and cost.
Current research discusses the assessment of piling process productivity
and cost using the deterministic technique. Data are collected through
questionnaires, site interviews and telephone calls to experts in various
construction companies. Many variables have been considered in the piling
construction process, such as pile size, depth, pouring method, soil type
and construction method. Five deterministic models have been designated to
assess productivity, cycle time and cost. The developed models are
validated whereas 79% of the outputs have been predicted with more than
75% accuracy. Consequently, three sets of charts have been developed to
provide the decision-maker with a solid planning, scheduling and control
tool for piling projects. If a pile has 60' depth with φ-18 (18''
diameter pile) in clay soil using a 5' auger height, the cycle time is
estimated as 56 and 65.5 minutes; however, productivity is 6 and 5
holes/day for dry and wet methods, respectively.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 531-543
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Bored pile, cost, cycle time, deterministic models, productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500039911
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500039911
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:531-543
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sang-Hoon Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Sang-Hoon
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: Stephen Thomas
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas
Author-Name: Richard Tucker
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Tucker
Title: The relative impacts of selected practices on project cost and schedule
Abstract:
Many studies reveal the positive impact of practices use on overall
project performance, resulting in a consensus opinion in the industry that
implementation of certain practices leads to improvement; yet there have
been no definitive studies reporting in a quantitative manner, the
relative impact of practices on different project objectives. This study
develops models using multiple descriptive discriminant function analyses
that divide project cost and schedule performance into four different
performance groups. The study then examines the practices that
discriminate among these four groups. Finally these results are summarized
into a practice use index categorization for project cost and schedule
performance. Critical practices indicating dominant impact on both cost
and schedule performance are pre-project planning, project change
management and design/information technology practice. Team building
practice is a cost-beneficial practice and zero accident techniques
practice is a schedule-beneficial practice, while constructability
practice has a balanced bottom line impact on both cost and schedule.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-553
Issue: 5
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Cost, discriminant function analysis, practices, relative importance, schedule,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040232
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:5:p:545-553
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Frens Pries
Author-X-Name-First: Frens
Author-X-Name-Last: Pries
Author-Name: Andre Doree
Author-X-Name-First: Andre
Author-X-Name-Last: Doree
Title: A century of innovation in the Dutch construction industry
Abstract:
In recent years, the number of publications on innovation in the
construction industry has increased. Many of these documents address
qualitative issues, e.g. policies for innovation and present case studies.
A more quantitative approach is taken in this paper, which is the
continuation of a previous study. It focuses on main types and sources of
innovation in the construction industry, and includes an analysis of 55
years of publications in two leading Dutch professional journals. The
results show a recent increase in innovation, with two-thirds of
innovations coming out of supplying industries. Construction companies
contribute mainly in process innovations. Innovation in construction
remains to be technology- rather than market-driven. Regulations have a
surprising impact, as over one-third of all counted new innovations are
related to new regulations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 561-564
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction industry, innovation, management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040349
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040349
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:6:p:561-564
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Madhav Prasad Nepal
Author-X-Name-First: Madhav Prasad
Author-X-Name-Last: Nepal
Author-Name: Moonseo Park
Author-X-Name-First: Moonseo
Author-X-Name-Last: Park
Title: A hierarchical structural model of assessing innovation and project performance
Abstract:
Research in construction innovation highlights construction industry as
having many barriers and resistance to innovations and suggests that it
needs champions. A hierarchical structural model is presented, to assess
the impact of the role of the project manager (PM) on the levels of
innovation and project performance. The model adopts the structural
equation modelling technique and uses the survey data collected from PMs
and project team members working for general contractors in Singapore. The
model fits well to the observed data, accounting for 24%, 37% and 49% of
the variance in championing behaviour, the level of innovation and project
performance, respectively. The results of this study show the importance
of the championing role of PMs in construction innovation. However, in
order to increase their effectiveness, such a role should be complemented
by their competency and professionalism, tactical use of influence
tactics, and decision authority. Moreover, senior management should
provide adequate resources and a sustained support to innovation and
create a conducive environment or organizational culture that nurtures and
facilitates the PM's role in the construction project as a champion of
innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 565-577
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Champions, innovation, organizational climate, project manager,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500126684
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stuart Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Scott Fernie
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Fernie
Author-Name: Stephanie Weller
Author-X-Name-First: Stephanie
Author-X-Name-Last: Weller
Title: Making sense of supply chain management: a comparative study of aerospace and construction
Abstract:
Current recipes for learning across business sectors too often fail to
recognize the embedded and contextual nature of management practice. The
existing literature gives little emphasis to the symbiotic relationship
between supply chain management and the broader dynamics of context. The
aerospace and construction sectors are selected for comparison on the
basis that they are so different. The UK aerospace sector has undergone
extensive consolidation as a result of the imperatives of global
competitive pressures. In contrast, the construction industry has
experienced decades of fragmentation and remains highly localized. An
increasing proportion of output in the aerospace sector occurs within a
small number of large, globally orientated firms. In contrast,
construction output is dominated by a plethora of small firms with high
levels of subcontracting and a widespread reliance on self-employment.
These differences have fundamental implications for the way that supply
chain management is understood and implemented in the two sectors.
Semi-structured interviews with practitioners from both sectors support
the contention that supply chain management is more established in
aerospace than construction. The introduction of prime contracting and the
increasing use of framework agreements within the construction sector
potentially provide a much more supportive climate for supply chain
management than has traditionally prevailed. However, progress depends
upon an improved continuity of workload under such arrangements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 579-593
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Consolidation, context, industry structure, sense-making, supply chain management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500126882
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: N. A. Ankrah
Author-X-Name-First: N. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ankrah
Author-Name: D. A. Langford
Author-X-Name-First: D. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Langford
Title: Architects and contractors: a comparative study of organizational cultures
Abstract:
Conflicts between project participants have been identified in various
construction industry reports as being one of the principal causes of poor
performance on construction projects. These conflicts occur at the
interface level in one respect because participants have different
objectives and different organizational cultures which define their
approach to work and relationship with the other project participants.
This research was therefore undertaken to investigate and identify the
organizational cultures of two significant players in the project
coalition - architects and contractors - on the premise that by revealing
specific cultural characteristics and orientations, establishing
significant areas of difference and initiating discussion on some of the
implications for conflicts and project performance, the context would have
been set for assessing and understanding the behaviour of these project
participants. A questionnaire survey based on some specific indices of
organizational culture conducted on these two groups of participants
revealed that in terms of specific traits, significant differences exist
in task organization, sources of power and influence, control and
coordination, formality, people issues and nature of tasks. The
implications are that conflicts are likely to occur within the project
coalition at the interface level where human interaction elements occur
and this could detract from achieving project objectives. Awareness of
these differences, however, improves the chances of achieving the right
balance when constructing the team and this could lead to the development
of synergy and good 'project chemistry' with positive consequences for
overall project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 595-607
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Architects, construction industry, contractors, organizational culture, project coalition,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500126973
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:6:p:595-607
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Julaikha Hossain
Author-X-Name-First: Julaikha
Author-X-Name-Last: Hossain
Author-Name: Kyoko Kusakabe
Author-X-Name-First: Kyoko
Author-X-Name-Last: Kusakabe
Title: Sex segregation in construction organizations in Bangladesh and Thailand
Abstract:
Why do more women in Bangladesh study civil engineering than in Thailand,
but fewer Bangladeshi women take employment in construction companies? The
primary data for answering this question were drawn from questionnaire
surveys with 204 professional engineers, in-depth interviews with 80
professional women engineers, and informal discussions with
employers/representatives in construction organizations in Bangladesh and
Thailand. The findings underline the importance of organizational policy,
practices and culture in creating a women-friendly workplace in both
countries. The findings suggest that despite the reinforcement of societal
gender expectations, organizations are able to create their own
organizational culture and practices, which could help to utilize women's
talent and improve their professional careers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 609-619
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction industry, organizational culture, sex segregation, women engineers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127062
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500127062
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:6:p:609-619
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Wibowo
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Wibowo
Title: Estimating general threshold traffic levels of typical build, operate, and transfer toll road projects in Indonesia
Abstract:
Applying the adjusted present value method enables the estimation of the
general minimum traffic levels for the first year of operation required to
make typical Indonesia's build, operate and transfer (BOT) toll road
projects financially feasible. To determine the level, both average
business risk as reflected by the opportunity cost of capital in the
country's toll road industry, and project-specific risk as reflected by
traffic risk in terms of ramp-up scale, ramp-up duration and catch-up
extent are taken into consideration. Pessimistic and optimistic estimates
reveal, respectively, that 18 000 vehicles per day (vhd) and 18 100 vhd
are the minimum traffic levels under a low traffic risk scenario. This
level increases particularly for optimistic estimate if traffic risk
rises. To relax these high traffic requirements, the government should
attempt to minimize traffic risk and average business risk or to provide
financial supports. Sensitivity analysis results demonstrate that the
threshold traffic levels are very sensitive to base tolls and construction
cost.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 621-630
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Adjusted present value, build-operate-transfer, Indonesia, toll road,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040901
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040901
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:6:p:621-630
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Toke Reichstein
Author-X-Name-First: Toke
Author-X-Name-Last: Reichstein
Author-Name: Ammon Salter
Author-X-Name-First: Ammon
Author-X-Name-Last: Salter
Author-Name: David Gann
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Gann
Title: Last among equals: a comparison of innovation in construction, services and manufacturing in the UK
Abstract:
This paper contrasts the attitudes of firms towards innovation from the
construction sector with those in services and manufacturing, using data
from the UK innovation survey. We examine the liabilities that
construction firms face in their innovative activities in comparison to
other sectors, drawing from literature on the distinctiveness of
construction as an economic activity. We find that the liabilities of
immobility and unanticipated demand are among key distinguishing features
that separate innovative behaviour in construction from other industries.
The paper concludes with a discussion of the merits of cross-sectoral
comparative research of this kind, together with issues for further
research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 631-644
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction innovation, innovation, innovation strategy, manufacturing, services,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500126940
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500126940
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. Darshi De Saram
Author-X-Name-First: D. Darshi
Author-X-Name-Last: De Saram
Author-Name: S. L. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: S. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Title: Pain and suffering costs of persons in construction accidents: Hong Kong experience
Abstract:
Direct financial costs of accidents are the tip of the iceberg when
compared to the indirect costs. Notwithstanding the difficulties involved,
it is very important to estimate the indirect costs borne by society, and
the non-material losses due to pain, suffering and loss of enjoyment of
life undergone by the victim. This study investigates the pain and
suffering costs (non-material losses) of the victims of construction
accidents in Hong Kong based on relevant High Court personal injury case
judgements in the years 1999-2003. The 54 non-fatal accident cases and 14
fatal accident cases analysed indicate that the average percentage of
compensation awarded for non-material damages (pain, suffering and loss of
enjoyment of life) to that for material damages (loss of earnings, medical
and travelling expenses, etc.) during those years is about 30%. This
result enables estimating the pain and suffering costs of the society for
a particular year if the total material losses of all construction
accidents in that year are known. Based on previous research in which the
material losses in Hong Kong were evaluated for the years 1999, 2000 and
2001, the corresponding pain and suffering costs could be estimated as 219
million, 150 million and 107 million Hong Kong dollars, respectively
(US$1.00 = HK$7.80).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 645-658
Issue: 6
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Accidents, construction, costs, damages, Hong Kong losses, pain, suffering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500039739
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500039739
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:6:p:645-658
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: T. S. Hu
Author-X-Name-First: T. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: S. T. Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Using the principal component analysis method as a tool in contractor pre-qualification
Abstract:
Contractor pre-qualification can be regarded as a complicated, two-group,
non-linear classification problem. It involves a variety of subjective and
uncertain information extracted from various parties such as contractors,
pre-qualifiers and project teams. Non-linearity, uncertainty and
subjectivity are the three predominant characteristics of the contractor
pre-qualification process. This makes the process more of an art than a
scientific evaluation. In addition to non-linearity, uncertainty and
subjectivity, contractor pre-qualification is further complicated by the
large number of contractor pre-qualification criteria (CPC) used in
current practice and the multicollinearity existing between contractor
attributes. An alternative empirical method using principal component
analysis (PCA) is proposed for contractor pre-qualification in this study.
The proposed method may alleviate the existing amount of multicollinearity
and largely reduce the dimensionality of the pre-qualification data set.
The applicability and potential of PCA for contractor pre-qualification
has been examined by way of two data sets: (1) 73 pre-qualification cases
(37 qualified and 36 disqualified) collected in England and (2) 85 (45
qualified and 40 disqualified) pre-qualification cases relating to 10
public sector projects in Hong Kong. The PCA-based results demonstrated
that strong and positive inter-correlations existed between most of the
qualifying variables, with the minimum correlation coefficient being 0.121
and the maximum being 0.899, and that qualified and disqualified
contractors could be satisfactorily separated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 673-684
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Contractor pre-qualification, neural networks, principal component analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041263
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041263
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:673-684
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiao-Hua Jin
Author-X-Name-First: Xiao-Hua
Author-X-Name-Last: Jin
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Title: Constructing a framework for building relationships and trust in project organizations: two case studies of building projects in China
Abstract:
A framework is constructed that can be used to foster trust and build
relationships in construction project organizations in China. The research
method was based on in-depth study of two building projects in China and
data were collected via face-to-face interviews. The results show that as
the project progresses, the dominant relationship within each stage
deepens. The deepening relationship gives rise to different types of
inherent risks such as a partner's self-interest seeking behaviour and
opportunistic actions. To counterbalance these risks, trust fostering
tools must be employed such as careful selection and effective management
of partners. The framework for fostering trust and building relationship
developed in the study suggests that (1) relationship deepens from shallow
dependence to deep interdependence as the project progresses; (2)
different relationships bring about distinct inherent risks; and (3)
different trust-fostering tools counterbalance specific inherent risks.
This framework could aid in reducing adversarial relationships by
suggesting ways to foster trustworthy relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 685-696
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: China, project management, relationship, risk, trust,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127039
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500127039
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:685-696
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gul Polat
Author-X-Name-First: Gul
Author-X-Name-Last: Polat
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: The JIT materials management system in developing countries
Abstract:
The just-in-time (JIT) approach to materials management appears to be
superior to a just-in-case (JIC) approach in terms of reducing cost and
improving productivity under most circumstances encountered in
industrialized countries. However, is it truly more advantageous than the
more commonly used approaches in developing countries? Contractors in
developing countries may be compelled to keep excessive inventory under
some circumstances to help manage uncertainty in the supply chain and
production process, high inflation rates, available discounts on prices of
large amounts of materials, and price cuts in case of early purchasing.
This study presents a comparison of the JIT and JIC materials management
systems in terms of total cost of inventory by means of a simulation model
that makes use of actual data obtained from an ongoing trade centre
project in Istanbul, Turkey. The study suggests that had the JIT system
been used in the project in Istanbul the total cost of inventory would
have been 4.4% higher than the total cost of inventory in the JIC system
currently used.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 697-712
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Materials management systems, just-in-time, developing countries, simulation modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500041388
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500041388
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:697-712
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Emrah Acar
Author-X-Name-First: Emrah
Author-X-Name-Last: Acar
Author-Name: Ismail Kocak
Author-X-Name-First: Ismail
Author-X-Name-Last: Kocak
Author-Name: Yildiz Sey
Author-X-Name-First: Yildiz
Author-X-Name-Last: Sey
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Use of information and communication technologies by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in building construction
Abstract:
Scholars usually agree that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
active in construction are not very innovative when compared with
large-size construction enterprises. This is particularly evident in the
case of adoption and diffusion of innovation associated with information
and communication technologies (ICTs). Although ICTs are powerful
instruments for the rapid and broader diffusion of technical knowledge,
few SMEs are fully able to exploit their benefits. There is little
evidence of how SMEs perceive ICTs and of the extent to which these
technologies are actually used in the construction industry. There is a
relationship between organizational size and the use of ICTs within the
SMEs in the building construction sector in Turkey. A set of ICT variables
comprising the perception, investment, usage and the software preferences
of SMEs were analysed by making use of the data collected in a survey of a
randomly selected sample of 227 building construction firms in Turkey. In
contrast to the common approaches that consider SMEs as part of a
homogeneous set of firms with similar characteristics, this study seeks
the differences in ICT-related attitudes between SMEs of different sizes.
Rather than using arbitrarily pre-defined intervals to classify firms by
size, cluster analysis was used in this study. Although what emerges as a
whole is the common under-utilization of ICTs by SMEs in building
construction, 'organizational size' appears to explain some of the
ICT-related attitude differences within these SMEs. Policy makers can
consider using the findings of this study as inputs in their activities,
as these findings represent a generic overview of the diffusion of new
technologies and can assist in identifying future research directions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 713-722
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Information and communication technology, organizational size, small firms, Turkish building construction industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127112
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:713-722
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: We Mild Spaulding
Author-X-Name-First: We Mild
Author-X-Name-Last: Spaulding
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: The use of function analysis as the basis of value management in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
Function analysis (FA) is considered to be at the core of value
management (VM). However, research in the construction industry in the
United States and Hong Kong indicates that this fundamental process is
sometimes abbreviated or omitted from the VM process. In examining this
situation in the Australian construction industry context, the research
described in this paper aimed to gather a cross-sectional view of the role
of FA in VM in the Australian construction industry by means of a postal
questionnaire survey. The results confirm that FA is not always used in
the VM process in Australia. Moreover, the functional hierarchy is
preferred to the function analysis systems techniques (FAST) diagram when
FA is implemented. It is also found that the greater the knowledge the
participants have of FA, the more likely FA would be used in the VM
process; while the greater the difficulty in implementing FA, the lesser
is the commitment to use FA. In addition it is found that, in many ways,
the use of FA and VM in general in Australia mirrors that of its operation
(difficulty in applying FA, lack of expert facilitators, etc.) in other
countries around the world. Exceptions to this include the length of time
VM has been used in Australia and the duration of the VM workshops, both
of which are shorter than in most countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 723-731
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Australian construction industry, function analysis, functional hierarchy, value management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040679
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040679
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:723-731
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Title: Does work-family conflict mediate the relationship between job schedule demands and burnout in male construction professionals and managers?
Abstract:
It is unclear where work-family conflict should be theoretically
positioned in the relationship between job stress and strain. Data
collected from 231 male construction professionals, managers and
administrators were analysed to determine whether work-family conflict
mediates the relationship between job stressors and burnout. Two different
aspects of work-schedule demands, i.e. job schedule irregularity and hours
worked per week, were found to be related to the emotional exhaustion
dimension of burnout. In all cases, the relationship between job schedule
demands and emotional exhaustion was mediated by work-family conflict. The
authors conclude that job schedule demands impact upon emotional
exhaustion via work-family conflict. Further, work-family conflict is
demonstrated to be a key mediating mechanism between schedule demands and
emotional exhaustion for male employees. It is recommended that
construction organizations examine ways to reduce work-family conflict as
a means to reduce burnout and improve employees' wellbeing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 733-745
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Burnout, men, schedule inflexibility, work hours, work-family conflict, wellbeing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040836
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040836
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:733-745
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Rachel Cooper
Author-X-Name-First: Rachel
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooper
Author-Name: Patricia Tzortzopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Tzortzopoulos
Title: Organizational learning: conceptual challenges from a project perspective
Abstract:
Organizational learning has been widely acknowledged as holding the key
for companies to survive and prosper and has, in recent years, gained
currency in construction management research. Much research centred upon
the study of organizational learning as a process, as well as the view and
understanding of companies as learning organizations. However,
non-construction management researchers have recently begun to recognize
the incoherence of the concepts presented in the literature and identified
a lack of a solid theoretical and empirical foundation. To further
exacerbate the challenge of embracing organizational learning in
construction, the industry is largely project-based, thus increasing the
difficulties for organizational learning to occur. Past research into
organizational learning has also mainly concentrated on an
intra-organizational perspective and where construction is specifically
concerned, on project partnering. However, we regard such a focus to be
myopic as a means of exploring organizational learning at the construction
project level. As such, a number of research challenges are recommended
including the need to examine organizational learning beyond project
partnering; an emphasis on the inter-organizational dynamics involved in
both the process and outcomes of organizational learning and the
investigation of construction projects as learning networks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 747-756
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Conceptual review, construction projects, learning organization, organizational learning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127021
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:747-756
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joe Tak-Yun Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Joe Tak-Yun
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Eddie Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: William Seabrooke
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Seabrooke
Author-Name: John Raftery
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Raftery
Title: A study of the Hong Kong property market: housing price expectations
Abstract:
The size and direction of correlation between housing price movements and
expectations differ between housing actors and change over time in Hong
Kong. A cross-sectional market outlook survey was conducted in November
2000 to measure housing price expectations and their formation. The study
challenges the traditional adaptive expectations theory and finds that the
pessimistic mindset of market actors in a deflationary period was due to a
lack of economic confidence - the root cause for weak expectations. It
also suggests that there exist differential price expectations between
different actors. Homebuyers and investors tend to be unrealistically
overconfident in the long-term performance of the real estate market.
Evidently, the determination of house sale prices is predominantly
forward-looking, based more upon macroeconomic fundamentals than the past
price trend.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 757-765
Issue: 7
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Expectation formation, Hong Kong, housing price expectations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127260
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500127260
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:7:p:757-765
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Danny Myers
Author-X-Name-First: Danny
Author-X-Name-Last: Myers
Title: A review of construction companies' attitudes to sustainability
Abstract:
In the last decade several initiatives have been taken to encourage the
construction industry to support the agenda of sustainable development. On
the basis of public disclosures made by companies listed on the UK Stock
Exchange this paper reviews current attitudes to sustainability and
corporate social responsibility. The findings suggest that very few of the
major companies positively embrace these ideas. It is subsequently argued
that the fragmented and diverse nature of the industry further complicates
the transition towards sustainable construction. The conclusion is that
even though the construction industry has its own sustainability agenda,
relatively few companies have changed their business paradigm.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 781-785
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Corporate social responsibility, sustainable construction, public disclosures, UK government initiatives,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184360
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184360
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:781-785
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Horses for courses: relating innovation diffusion concepts to the stages of the diffusion process
Abstract:
The research uses a sociological perspective to build an improved,
context specific understanding of innovation diffusion within the UK
construction industry. It is argued there is an iterative interplay
between actors and the social system they occupy that directly influences
the diffusion process as well as the methodology adopted. The research
builds upon previous findings that argued a level of best fit for the
three innovation diffusion concepts of cohesion, structural equivalence
and thresholds. That level of best fit is analysed here using empirical
data from the UK construction industry. This analysis allows an
understanding of how the relative importance of these concepts' actually
varies within the stages of the innovation diffusion process. The
conclusion that the level of relevance fluctuates in relation to the
stages of the diffusion process is a new development in the field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 787-792
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Actor, cohesion, diffusion stages, innovation, structure, structural equivalence, thresholds,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204770
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204770
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:787-792
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Brochner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brochner
Author-Name: Per-erik Josephson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Josephson
Author-Name: Johan Alte
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Alte
Title: Identifying management research priorities
Abstract:
An agenda for management research can be set by the academic community
with more or less input from practising managers. The purpose of this note
is to describe a model for collecting, structuring and analysing
practitioner views of what should be the priorities for construction
management research. A meeting with construction sector participants gave
rise to proposals that were consolidated into 20 management themes. Next,
a questionnaire sent to 260 individuals received 140 responses where these
themes had been ranked and the strength of recent industry development for
each theme assessed. Results show that high priority was assigned to
leadership issues and identification of customer needs. The process should
be possible to replicate abroad, although cultural differences are
expected to influence priorities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 793-796
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Management research, construction management, research priorities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500249569
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500249569
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:793-796
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pierre Bonnal
Author-X-Name-First: Pierre
Author-X-Name-Last: Bonnal
Author-Name: Didier Gourc
Author-X-Name-First: Didier
Author-X-Name-Last: Gourc
Author-Name: Ari-pekka Hameri
Author-X-Name-First: Ari-pekka
Author-X-Name-Last: Hameri
Author-Name: Germain Lacoste
Author-X-Name-First: Germain
Author-X-Name-Last: Lacoste
Title: A linear-discrete scheduling model for the resource-constrained project scheduling problem
Abstract:
For some specific types of construction projects, the classical CPM or
PDM scheduling techniques are not the most suitable. Few specific
scheduling approaches have been developed to cope with construction
projects that are made of either repetitive activities or activities with
linear developments. But real-world construction projects do not consist
only of such activities. They are generally made of a mixture of linear
and/or repetitive activities and of more conventional activities. To allow
this, the linear scheduling problem is reformulated, so classical schedule
calculation approaches can be used. The implementation of some Allen's
algebra features to avoid adverse discontinuities and to allow crew/work
continuity, together with a resource-driven and space-constrained
scheduling are among the key features of the proposed approach. It is also
a spin-off of off-the-field practices used for scheduling real projects in
the particle accelerator construction domain; an excerpt from such a
construction project is provided for illustrating the methodology.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 797-814
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction scheduling, linear scheduling, optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040869
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500040869
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:797-814
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Wu Min
Author-X-Name-First: Wu
Author-X-Name-Last: Min
Title: Just-in-time management in the ready mixed concrete industries of Chongqing, China and Singapore
Abstract:
Implementing just-in-time (JIT) management in the ready mixed concrete
(RMC) industry seems viable. It has been observed previously by others
that the current practices for managing the concrete supply chain upstream
in terms of raw materials acquisition or prerequisite work on site were
not geared toward JIT production. However, it is unclear if this
observation is also relevant for the procurement of raw materials in the
RMC industry in Chongqing (in China) and Singapore. Hence, the purpose of
this study is to investigate the implementation status of JIT in the RMC
industry in Chongqing and Singapore. The field study conducted found that
all the RMC suppliers surveyed were using the demand pull system to manage
RMC production and delivery to sites. However, the study also found that
the raw materials could be purchased either using the JIT purchasing
method or the traditional economic order quantity (EOQ) purchasing method.
Further studies to investigate the conditions where a RMC supplier can
adopt the JIT purchasing method to procure its raw materials are
recommended.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 815-829
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Chongqing, JIT, production techniques, ready mixed concrete, Singapore, suppliers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500040638
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Max Bergstrom
Author-X-Name-First: Max
Author-X-Name-Last: Bergstrom
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Title: Benefits and disadvantages of ERP in industrialised timber frame housing in Sweden
Abstract:
Industrialised timber frame housing is successful in the Swedish market
for one-family housing. In the manufacturing industry, methods and
software systems such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) are
widespread, demonstrating significant benefits. A survey of the majority
of industrialised timber frame housing companies in Sweden demonstrates
low ERP use with a low degree of strategic importance, but with
operational and managerial benefits. The ERP approach has potential for
industrialised housing and its use is favoured by an increased maturity in
IT.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 831-838
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Enterprise resource planning, industrialised housing, small and medium-sized enterprises,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184097
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:831-838
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tarek Zayed
Author-X-Name-First: Tarek
Author-X-Name-Last: Zayed
Author-Name: Daniel Halpin
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Halpin
Author-Name: Ismail Basha
Author-X-Name-First: Ismail
Author-X-Name-Last: Basha
Title: Productivity and delays assessment for concrete batch plant-truck mixer operations
Abstract:
Current research focuses on assessing productivity, cost, and delays for
concrete batch plant (CBP) operations using Artificial Neural Network
(ANN) methodology. Data were collected to assess cycle time, delays, cost
of delays, cost of delivery, productivity, and price/m3 for the CBP. Two
ANN models were designated to represent the CBP process considering many
CBP variables. Input variables include delivery distance, concrete type,
and truck mixer's load. Output variables include the assessment of cycle
time, cost of delays, delivery cost, productivity, and price/m3. The ANN
outputs have been validated to show the ANN's robustness in assessing the
CBP output variables. The average validity percent for the ANN outputs is
96.25%. A Time-Quantity (TQ) chart is developed to assess the time
required for both truck mixers and the CBP to produce a specified quantity
of concrete. Charts have been developed to predict cycle time/truck,
delays/truck, cost of delays/truck, cost of delivery/m3, and price/m3.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-850
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Artificial Neural Network (ANN), productivity, cost analysis, cycle time, modeling, concrete batch plant (CBP), truck mixer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184451
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Author-Name: Manish Gangwar
Author-X-Name-First: Manish
Author-X-Name-Last: Gangwar
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Title: The effect of time on safety incentive programs in the US construction industry
Abstract:
Recently, safety incentive programs have been under scrutiny by the US
Occupational Safety and Health Administration for their effectiveness to
improve construction safety performance. Most of the previous research on
construction safety incentives focused on anecdotal evidence examining the
merits and demerits of safety incentives. Meanwhile, the long-term effect
of safety incentive programs on construction safety remains uncertain.
This research examined how key safety performance indicators changed over
time in the presence of safety incentive programs in the US construction
industry using primary survey data. The paper's key finding is that the
effectiveness of safety incentive programs does diminish with time, as
suspected by earlier experts and managers in the US construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 851-859
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, incentive, safety, personnel management, motivation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184527
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184527
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:851-859
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Ivory
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Ivory
Title: The cult of customer responsiveness: is design innovation the price of a client-focused construction industry?
Abstract:
Much has been written about the positive contribution made by the
customer to innovation in bespoke and low-volume products like those of
construction. Far less attention has been given to the potentially
corrosive effects the client might have on innovation. Drawing on three
construction case studies, this paper argues that strong client leadership
may have negative consequences for innovation, including the suppression
of innovation and an overly narrow focus on particular types of
innovation. Given that innovation has a key role in the future
competitiveness of any industry, it is argued that the role of the client
in construction innovation requires more careful examination than it has
thus far been afforded.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 861-870
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: The client, innovation, competitiveness,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204648
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204648
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:861-870
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna Kadefors
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Kadefors
Title: Fairness in interorganizational project relations: norms and strategies
Abstract:
There is a strong preference for fairness in human interaction, so that
people who experience unfairness tend to react with anger, resentment and
loss of motivation. Concerns to appear fair influence the behaviour of
both individuals and firms. Perceptions of fairness are susceptible to
framing and may be influenced by various norms for outcome distribution as
well as by decision processes and interpersonal relations. This paper
deals with causes and effects of fairness perceptions in construction
project relations, mainly fixed price contracts procured by competitive
tendering. In such projects, uncertainty results in continuous post
contract award problem-solving and negotiations, and fairness concerns may
have incremental but significant influence on the terms of exchange. Case
studies of client-contractor interaction in two projects are used to
discuss of how fairness norms relate to strategies and industry culture.
It is concluded that that an intuitive cost-based norm of fair pricing
shapes interaction in construction projects, but that consequences vary
between projects. The norm may favour contractors, but is also related to
poor risk management and client distrust. To improve performance, clients
need to design procurement practices and communication so that perceptions
of contractor losses are counteracted.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 871-878
Issue: 8
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction contracts, conflict, procurement, fairness, winner's curse,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184238
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184238
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:8:p:871-878
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Paul Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Author-Name: Alice Chong
Author-X-Name-First: Alice
Author-X-Name-Last: Chong
Author-Name: Chloe Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Chloe
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Title: Impacts of stress on estimation performance in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Cost estimation not only requires precise technical and analytical input
from estimators but also involves the use of subjective judgement. An
investigation on the impact of stress on estimation performance was
conducted involving 177 professional estimators in Hong Kong. Using
correlation analysis, regression analysis and structural equation
modelling, the relationships between stress and various aspects of
estimation performance are examined and a causal structural model is
developed. The results indicate that stress is a cause of negative
estimation performance (resulting in weak interpersonal relationships,
unfamiliarity with organization and ineffective process), while,
simultaneously, it is beneficial to the professional estimation
performance. Furthermore, there is an inverted U-shaped relationship
between stress and the organizational relationship.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 891-903
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Cost estimation, interpersonal, organization, performance, stress, task,
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619042000326701
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0144619042000326701
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:891-903
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xing Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Xing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Zhihui Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhihui
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: Input-output analysis of the Chinese construction sector
Abstract:
The construction sector has played a key role in the Chinese economy,
which has been experiencing a rapid growth for the past two decades. This
development and growth are reviewed in a framework of input-output
analysis. The national input-output table (IO table) was used to study the
current input-output profile of the Chinese construction sector and the
relationship between the construction sector and other sectors. The pull
and push effect of the Chinese construction industry to the whole national
economy has been estimated. It shows that the pull effect is much larger
than the push effect. Furthermore, through the analysis of a series of
four IO tables spanning over the last 10 years, it reveals that the pull
and push effect of the Chinese construction industry are both getting
larger and larger. This means the Chinese construction industry is
becoming mature and is in great transition.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 905-912
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Input-output analysis, construction sector, pull effect, push effect,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500183974
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500183974
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:905-912
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chuan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Chuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: John Messner
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Messner
Title: An investigation of Chinese BOT projects in water supply: a comparative perspective
Abstract:
China has used the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) delivery method since the
early 1980s. However, there has been a varying degree of success achieved
through the use of this method aimed toward the increased development of
economic infrastructure projects. The Chinese government continues to
shift and revise their delivery approach on BOT projects to maintain
public welfare and improve the potential for project success based on
lessons learned from practice. Private sponsors accordingly design or
adjust their strategies to survive and succeed in this turbulent market
environment. Three representative BOT water projects in China were
compared to provide both descriptive and predictive insights to both
public and private parties involved in water BOT projects in China.
Critical lessons were drawn from government initiatives in project
institutional settings regarding government support, procurement method,
tariff formulae, approval system, and dispute resolution process. Four
generic strategies used by private sponsors were identified through these
case studies including cost leadership, transaction size maximization,
localization, and involvement of multilateral financial organization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 913-925
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), water sector, China, governmental initiatives, strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184121
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184121
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:913-925
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Pryke
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Pryke
Title: Towards a social network theory of project governance
Abstract:
The findings of a study are presented using social network analysis in an
innovative application involving the analysis of construction project
governance. The rationale supporting the application of social network
analysis (SNA) within the construction project coalition context was
published by this author in a previous paper in this journal. The
rationale is summarised in order to explore a very specific framework for
the examination of the governance of construction coalitions. The
significance of the analytical approach proposed relates to the weakness
in existing analytical methods, particularly in relation to changes in
approach to procurement following the publication of the Latham and Egan
reports. The research framework relates to the key functions of the
coalitions to SNA. Within the framework of these key functions, network
density and actor point centrality data are gathered using a form of
linear responsibility analysis chart adapted to assemble network data in
node list form for input in UCINET 6, SNA analysis and visualisation
software. Analysis of the directional, non-trivial, valued and
multivariate network data reveals that the study of comparative network
density and project actor related point centrality is effective in
providing an understanding of a number of characteristics of new
procurement. Specifically, we can study and evaluate quantitatively,
possibly for the first time: use and relevance of financial incentives in
the governance of projects; emergent and redundant project actor roles;
movement away from traditional independent financial management roles
within projects adopting a supply chain management (SCM) approach;
alternative candidates for the role of manager of the supply chain and
their relative levels of engagement and effectiveness; the effects that
the use of clusters and SCM have upon post-contract production activities;
the effects that partnering arrangements and standardisation of design
have upon transaction costs during the production phase; the effects on
project governance of a reduced reliance on contract for project
governance; and characteristics of the relatively new role of cluster
leader. The results of the research are presented here principally in
tabulated form and involve network density values for contractual,
performance incentive and information exchange networks. Centrality values
relate to the prominence of the key project actors within the three main
types of network identified above.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 927-939
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Governance, procurement, project management, social network analysis (SNA), intra-coalition networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184196
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184196
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:927-939
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. Navon
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Navon
Author-Name: Y. Shpatnitsky
Author-X-Name-First: Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shpatnitsky
Title: A model for automated monitoring of road construction
Abstract:
Monitoring and control of earthmoving operations is gaining an increasing
interest. Manual monitoring and control of earthmoving operations have not
yielded the expected results. Additionally, because manual monitoring is
labor-intensive, construction managers have to choose between monitoring
based on rough estimates, or spending a lot of time collecting and
processing data. The latter choice distracts them from many other
important duties. The purpose of the present model is to automatically
collect and process monitoring data providing the construction manager
with real-time control information. The model was developed for road
construction. It uses GPS technology for automated data collection,
logging the locations of all the earthmoving equipment while working on
the project. Specially developed algorithms convert these locations to
control information regarding productivity, duration (or progress) and
actual consumption of materials. The model was implemented and tested for
3 weeks in a road construction project. The performance of four activities
was measured by the model and compared to manual measurement of the same
parameters. This comparison indicated that the model could reach a
deviation of ±5%.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 941-951
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Automated data collection, control, earthmoving, GPS, monitoring, road construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500183917
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500183917
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:941-951
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kelu Guo
Author-X-Name-First: Kelu
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Author-Name: Edward Minchin
Author-X-Name-First: Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Minchin
Author-Name: Ted Ferragut
Author-X-Name-First: Ted
Author-X-Name-Last: Ferragut
Title: The shift to warranties and performance specifications: what of method specifications?
Abstract:
Assertions have been made recently by many in the public sector and the
construction industry that a standard set of specifications based on
measurable performance has been developed for the industry. The move from
method, or prescriptive, specifications to performance specifications and
warranties has produced innovative ideas and changes to the industry;
however, it was not clear just how complete the change was or to what
extent method specifications were still relied upon. In addition, it was
not clear what contribution, if any, method specifications would make to
the ideal set of standard specifications. A recently conducted study
analyses the prevalence of method specifications versus performance
specifications and warranties in highway and bridge construction.
Innovative contracting and the trend within state highway agencies to move
from method specifications to warranties and performance specifications
are discussed, as are suggestions for integrating method specifications
into performance and warranty specifications.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 953-963
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Method specifications, prescriptive specifications, performance-related specifications, performance-based specifications, warranties, performance specifications,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500183842
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500183842
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:9:p:953-963
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Delgado-Hernandez
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Delgado-Hernandez
Author-Name: Elaine Aspinwall
Author-X-Name-First: Elaine
Author-X-Name-Last: Aspinwall
Title: Improvement tools in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
The use of improvement tools in manufacturing industry has proven to be
an important aspect of continuous improvement activities. To determine
whether the same is true in the UK construction industry, a survey was
conducted to assess the current level of use and perceived importance of
such tools. In addition, the impact of the ISO 9001 quality system on the
level of use and perceived importance of these tools was also
investigated. Following a comprehensive literature review, more than
thirty improvement tools were identified and categorized using affinity
diagrams. Factor analysis was used to demonstrate that the proposed
classification was valid. The results of the survey showed that, in terms
of use, quality control, performance measures and technology tools are
common practice in the industry. A similar set of tools/techniques was
perceived as highly important except that technology and performance
measures were interchanged. When comparing the mean use and mean perceived
importance for each group of techniques, significant differences were
found in tools that help to gather customer needs, those aimed at
programming and those used for measuring performance. In terms of the ISO
9001 standard, it was found that certified companies make more use of and
place higher levels of importance on most of the groups of tools studied
than those not certified. The conclusions from the survey will help to
develop a framework for suggesting which tools to use at each stage of a
construction project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 965-977
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Improvement tools, total quality management (TQM), survey, construction projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204705
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204705
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Y. H. Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Y. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Title: Time series forecasts of the construction labour market in Hong Kong: the Box-Jenkins approach
Abstract:
Labour resources are invaluable assets in the construction industry.
Nurturing a quality workforce and promoting stable employment for
construction personnel have often been advocated as part and parcel of an
industrial policy. Yet, the future labour market of the industry is always
uncertain, and there is a need for estimating future labour market
conditions as an aid to policy formulation and implementation. The
Box-Jenkins approach has been applied to develop Autoregressive Integrated
Moving Average (ARIMA) models to analyse and forecast five key indicators
in the construction labour market of Hong Kong: employment level,
productivity, unemployment rate, underemployment rate and real wage. This
approach can be adopted in more complex and diverse labour markets subject
to the properties of the utilized data series. Quarterly time-series
statistics over the period 1983-2002 are used in this study. The
predictive adequacy of the models derived is evaluated with out-of-sample
forecasts in comparison with actual data, based on the mean absolute
percentage error (MAPE) and the Theil's U statistics. The results indicate
that except for construction employment, the proposed forecasting models
have reasonably good predictive performance. Among the five case studies,
the most accurate is the construction real wages model. In addition, we
conclude that univariate projection is not an appropriate method for
forecasting construction employment in Hong Kong. Multivariate structural
forecasting analysis should be adopted in order to obtain more accurate
estimates. The developed models can be used to provide benchmark estimates
for further analysis of the construction labour market and the projections
offer valuable information and early signals to training providers and
employment policy makers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 979-991
Issue: 9
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Box-Jenkins approach, time-series forecast, labour market, construction industry, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204911
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Barbara Bagilhole
Author-X-Name-First: Barbara
Author-X-Name-Last: Bagilhole
Title: Guest Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 995-1000
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500483036
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500483036
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:10:p:995-1000
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Geoff Briscoe
Author-X-Name-First: Geoff
Author-X-Name-Last: Briscoe
Title: Women and minority groups in UK construction: recent trends
Abstract:
Trends in the employment share of women working in UK construction are
compared to the proportions of women in the total national workforce. The
distribution of women workers across occupations in construction is
examined and factors limiting the participation of women are briefly
addressed. The position of ethnic minority workers in construction is
analysed using recent data. Broad statistics on the extent of disability
in the workforce are presented. Recent data is produced on the regional
distribution of women, ethnic minorities and disabled people in the
industry workforce. Finally, attention is drawn to likely future changes
in diversity in the workforce and influences are noted that may yet result
in greater participation of minority groups in the construction labour
market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1001-1005
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Women in construction, ethnic minorities, disabled workers, current trends, regional differences,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204739
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204739
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. S. Caplan
Author-X-Name-First: A. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Caplan
Author-Name: J. Gilham
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gilham
Title: Included against the odds: failure and success among minority ethnic built-environment professionals in Britain
Abstract:
Despite domination of the built environment professions (BEPs) by white
men, there exists within it a small core of minority ethnic (ME)
professionals who are becoming well organized and articulate within their
professions. Based on a foundation of research conducted for the
Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and more recent work for the
Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) by the Centre
for Ethnic Minority Studies (CEMS, Royal Holloway, University of London),
this paper describes and analyses the factors that have enabled this group
to enter the industry and, in some cases, to prosper. Implicit in the
analysis is a critique of those structural and cultural factors that have
prevented others from following their career aims, and of the failure of
the industry more generally to be inclusive and diversify its workforce.
The discussion draws upon interviews with ME professionals, students,
lecturers and employers working in Britain in construction, engineering,
architecture, surveying, planning and urban and landscape design to
exemplify the key areas of access, support, development and progression in
the industry, and to present a clear and rounded picture of what it takes
to succeed as a ME professional in the BEPs today.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1007-1015
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction, built environment, minority ethnic, management, diversity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310700
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310700
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:10:p:1007-1015
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andy Steele
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Steele
Author-Name: Stephen Todd
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Todd
Title: The future of the black and minority ethnic (BME) construction sector in England
Abstract:
It is generally recognized that there is a lack of equality of
opportunity for minority-led contractors and consultants (i.e. where at
least 50 per cent of the workforce or ownership is from a minority group,
such as women, disabled people or a black and minority ethnic community)
to compete for work within the housing association sector. In response,
the Housing Corporation, the government quango responsible for social
housing in the UK, recently commissioned research to investigate the
potential benefits of establishing a national database of such companies
for the sector in England. The expectation was that such an initiative
will help develop, support and promote black and minority ethnic (BME)
companies and at the same time, redress the skills shortage in the
construction industry. Recent funding cuts within the Housing Corporation
now seriously undermine the future sustainability and development of this
sector of the construction industry. This paper begins by providing an
overview of the types of discrimination faced by BME contractors and
consultants. This is set within the context of an unprecedented expansion
in the construction sector but where restricted capacity among mainstream
contractors due to skill and staff shortages is increasingly evident. The
extent to which contractor registration databases have addressed these
inequalities is then considered with particular reference to the largest
of such contractor registration systems, Constructionline. Drawing on
recent empirical work, the development requirements of such a database
from the perspective of BME contractors and consultants is considered. The
discussion also focuses on the future sustainability of BME small and
medium enterprises. The commitment of social housing agencies to equality
of opportunity will be crucial to the success of this sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1017-1023
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Equality, construction, housing, ethnic and minorities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500372429
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500372429
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Justin Byrne
Author-X-Name-First: Justin
Author-X-Name-Last: Byrne
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Marc Van Der Meer
Author-X-Name-First: Marc
Author-X-Name-Last: Van Der Meer
Title: Gender and ethnic minority exclusion from skilled occupations in construction: a Western European comparison
Abstract:
Women and ethnic minorities remain seriously underrepresented in skilled
construction occupations despite European Union policy to overcome labour
market segregation and despite their increasing participation in the
economy-wide labour market. The paper seeks to account for differences in
female and ethnic minority/migrant participation in both the deregulated,
craft-based construction industries of Italy and Spain and, to an extent,
Britain and in the regulated industrial and training-based industries of
Denmark and the Netherlands. The authors found that the only entry route
for women is to obtain formal qualifications, with the Dutch and Danish
education and training systems being especially pivotal to inclusion.
Those from ethnic minorities and recent migrants, whilst proportionately
overrepresented in Italy and Spain, face more vertical segregation in
being largely confined to the bottom of the job ladder. Key obstacles
confronted by both groups are the opportunity to undertake work-based
training, output-based wage systems, informal methods of recruitment and
lack of proactive implementation of equal opportunities policies. The
conclusion drawn is that European and national authorities and social
partners need to address equality of access and of employment conditions
to ensure that regulation overcomes exclusion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1025-1034
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Construction industry, gender segregation, ethnic minorities, Europe, labour markets,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310759
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310759
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ann De Graft-Johnson
Author-X-Name-First: Ann
Author-X-Name-Last: De Graft-Johnson
Author-Name: Sandra Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Sandra
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Author-Name: Clara Greed
Author-X-Name-First: Clara
Author-X-Name-Last: Greed
Title: Diversity or the lack of it in the architectural profession
Abstract:
Approximately 37 per cent of architectural students are women and the
percentage is increasing. This increase is not reflected in the
architectural profession; women represent only 13 per cent of the total
and analysis reveals that women are leaving the profession after
qualifying. The research reported here was undertaken in 2003 and
investigated the reasons why women were leaving. Research methods included
the appointment of an expert advisory group, an extensive literature
review, a web-based questionnaire aimed at women architects and a series
of interviews with women who had left architecture. No single reason
emerged from the research to explain why women left but a multiplicity of
factors, such as low pay, poor promotion prospects, discriminatory
attitudes and sexist behaviour were found to influence departure. The
problem has an international dimension as revealed through the web survey
and from ongoing academic interest. There are serious implications for the
future of the profession if, through its culture and practice, it loses
skilled people after they have qualified. Finally a series of key
strategic recommendations for the professional bodies as well as
practitioners suggest ways of reducing this female brain drain. The aim is
to increase diversity in the construction industry and improve the
competitive edge of the architectural profession.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1035-1043
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Women in architecture, gender, discrimination, inclusion, equality, diversity, workplace practice and culture, equal opportunities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500394233
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500394233
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Title: The decline of the 'traditional' family: work-life benefits as a means of promoting a diverse workforce in the construction industry of Australia
Abstract:
The 'traditional' managerial career model was based upon a clear division
of labour. Typically, women stayed at home to raise children and manage
household work while men acted as primary breadwinners. In this
arrangement, relocation, long and inflexible hours of work and frequent
travel were not only possible but were a prerequisite for advancement.
However, since the 1950s, dramatic changes to family structures and
workforce composition have occurred. In the twenty-first century the
majority of women, including those who may be considered in the
child-bearing and early child-rearing age group, are in paid employment.
There has also been an increase in the number of lone parents in the
workforce. There is evidence of a corresponding change in employees'
expectations, with both men and women placing greater value on both work
and family involvement. Given these changes, it can no longer be assumed
that employees are 'free' to devote all their energy to their work. Nor
can it be assumed that there is a clear separation between employees' work
and personal lives. The construction industry has a culture of long hours
and weekend work, and construction employees struggle to achieve a balance
between their work and personal lives. This paper suggests that, in order
to attract and retain a talented workforce, construction organizations
will increasingly have to cater for the diverse needs of employees with
regard to work-life balance. Furthermore, it is likely that employees'
needs will vary according to their gender, age and stage of family
development. A 'one size fits all' approach to managing work-life balance
is unlikely to suffice. This paper presents the results of an empirical
investigation of project-based professional and managerial employees'
preferences for work-life balance initiatives in Australian private and
public sector construction organizations. Preferences were found to differ
significantly by employee family structure and age. The small number of
female respondents did not warrant statistical comparisons by gender.
However, the profile of female respondents suggests that women with
dependent children are seriously under-represented in project-based
positions within the participating organizations. Finally, the
implications for managing a diverse workforce are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1045-1057
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Work-life benefits, age, gender, family structure, diversity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500394308
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500394308
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:10:p:1045-1057
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Clara Greed
Author-X-Name-First: Clara
Author-X-Name-Last: Greed
Author-Name: Dory Reeves
Author-X-Name-First: Dory
Author-X-Name-Last: Reeves
Title: Mainstreaming equality into strategic spatial policy making: are town planners losing sight of gender?
Abstract:
Spatial planning authorities have a pivotal role in shaping the built
environment, through the production of development plans and the operation
of the development control system. Previous research shows that the needs
of women have not been given as much attention as those of men in the
formulation of planning policy. Yet European Union directives and United
Kingdom government guidance require local authorities to mainstream gender
considerations into spatial policy-making. This paper draws on research
undertaken for the Royal Town Planning Institute on the extent to which
gender mainstreaming is taking place within planning authorities. A
qualitative approach was adopted to identify those factors facilitating or
restricting adoption. It was found that a generic, rather than gendered,
approach to mainstreaming prevails. Gender is given a relatively low
priority relative to other over-arching policy considerations, such as
environmental sustainability or racial equality. A cameo study of the
Greater London Authority demonstrates the difficulties encountered by even
the most progressive planning departments. It is concluded that for gender
considerations to be taken seriously by planners, legislative and
procedural reforms are required, along with cultural change within the
wider context of the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1059-1070
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Spatial planning, gender, mainstreaming, diversity, equality, Greater London Authority,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500372353
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500372353
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:10:p:1059-1070
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rita Newton
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Newton
Author-Name: Marcus Ormerod
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Ormerod
Title: Do disabled people have a place in the UK construction industry?
Abstract:
In the UK, a significant number of disabled people are unemployed and
previous research has suggested reasons for this include the
inaccessibility of workplace environments that have either not been
designed, or adapted, to accommodate the requirements of disabled people,
and the nature of work being undertaken in that workplace environment.
Since there has been no previous research within the context of the
construction industry, the aim was to explore contractors' practices in
the employment of disabled people and in the adaptation of workplace
environments. A survey was undertaken of the top 100 UK contractors in the
UK. Views of disabled people were also sought, and access audits of
workplace environments were undertaken. The combined analysis shows that
compared to UK industries in general, contractors are less likely to have
appropriate policies and practices in place to support disabled job
applicants through the recruitment process. However, contractors as
employers are more likely to make 'reasonable adjustments' as required by
the UK Disability Discrimination Act if the adjustment is relatively
inexpensive, and if minimal adjustments are required in order to adapt
workplaces such that they provide an inclusive approach to the employment
of disabled people. Additionally, contractors work hard to ensure that if
an employee becomes disabled they are appropriately supported in continued
employment. Only a small number of construction organizations believed
that 'disabled people do not have a place in the UK construction
industry'. It can be concluded that while contractors are unlikely to
recruit disabled people, they are more likely to continue to employ people
once they become disabled, but there is very little monitoring and
evaluation of this process by contractors and it is likely that
contractors are not fulfilling their obligations under the Disability
Discrimination Act as a result.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1071-1081
Issue: 10
Volume: 23
Year: 2005
Keywords: Disability Discrimination Act, disabled employees, reasonable adjustments, social inclusion, workplace environments,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500372510
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500372510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:23:y:2005:i:10:p:1071-1081
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Y. C. Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Y. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Graphical-based multistage scheduling method for RC buildings
Abstract:
In Taiwan, contractors are becoming specialized in certain types of
construction in an increasingly competitive environment and this
specialization requires some scheduling models to provide better
scheduling results for each type of construction. A new practical method,
Graphical-Based Multistage Scheduling Method (GMSM), for scheduling RC
building superstructures is presented herein. From the analysis of
characteristics and construction custom of RC buildings, four constraints,
(a) down-up construction, (b) building inspection, (c) reuse of beam
forms, and (d) reuse of slab forms, can be established. The GMSM is
developed utilizing a graphical-based method and the concept of resource
reuse, and the general form of the GMSM to be facilely implemented in any
worksheet software is derived as well. The results of this study provide
some quantitative information as a useful guide for scheduling RC building
superstructures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-18
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Multistage scheduling, repetitive project, RC building, GMSM,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500183743
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500183743
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Author-Name: Eknarin Sriprasert
Author-X-Name-First: Eknarin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sriprasert
Title: Construction scheduling using multi-constraint and genetic algorithms approach
Abstract:
Reliable construction schedules are important for effective co-ordination
across the supply chain and various trades at the construction work face.
Reliability of construction schedules can be enhanced and improved through
satisfying all potential constraints prior to execution on site.
Availability of resources, execution space, execution logic, physical
dependency of construction products, client instructions and others can be
regarded as potential constraints. Current scheduling tools and techniques
are fragmented and designed to deal with a limited set of construction
constraints. In this context, a methodology termed 'multi-constraint
scheduling' is introduced in which four major groups of construction
constraints including physical, contract, resource and information
constraints are considered to demonstrate the approach. A genetic
algorithm (GA) has been developed and used for a multi-constraint
optimization problem. Given multiple constraints such as activity
dependency, limited working area, and resource and information readiness,
the GA alters tasks' priorities and construction methods so as to arrive
at an optimum or near optimum set of project duration, cost, and smooth
resource profiles. The multi-constraints approach has been practically
developed as an embedded macro in MS Project. Several experiments were
conducted using a simple project and it was concluded that GA can provide
near optimum and constraint-free schedules within an acceptable searching
time. This will be vital to improve the productivity and predictability of
construction sites.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 19-30
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Genetic algorithms, lean construction, multi-constraint scheduling, multi-objective optimization, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310486
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310486
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:1:p:19-30
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Mbachu
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbachu
Author-Name: Raymond Nkado
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Nkado
Title: Conceptual framework for assessment of client needs and satisfaction in the building development process
Abstract:
A conceptual framework is developed for assessment of client needs, and
the measurement and monitoring of client satisfaction levels in the
building development process. Data were obtained from qualitative and
quantitative surveys of a target population of clients of commercial
buildings in South Africa. Satisfaction levels based on multi-attribute
measures were compared with those based on single evaluative responses,
using Wilcoxon's matched-pair test. Results showed no significant
differences in pairwise comparisons. A strong positive correlation also
existed between both equivalent measures of client satisfaction levels.
These results validate the conceptual framework. Results of evaluation of
client satisfaction levels showed that clients perceived average levels of
satisfaction in the building development process. Areas for improvement in
the services of contractors and consultants were identified through
'Criticality Index' analyses. Empirical models were developed for
proactive measurements of client satisfaction levels at distinct stages of
the development process. A dynamic approach to satisfaction measurement is
recommended. This contrasts with post-purchase and static views adopted in
the consumer services segment and enables consultants to monitor and
improve satisfaction levels proactively, as the development process
evolves.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 31-44
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Building development, criticality index, needs assessment, performance measurement, satisfaction measurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500126866
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500126866
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ajibade Ayodeji Aibinu
Author-X-Name-First: Ajibade Ayodeji
Author-X-Name-Last: Aibinu
Title: The relationship between distribution of control, fairness and potential for dispute in the claims handling process
Abstract:
Parties' concern for fairness has been identified as one of the
underlying causes of dissatisfaction and protracted dispute in the process
for handling contractors' claims. Social psychology literature suggests
that distribution of control over the various stages of any conflict
resolution process is a factor that may influence concern for fairness.
Despite the numerous studies in social psychology and management research,
little or no attempt has been made to systematically investigate how
distribution of control over the various stages of the process for
handling a contractor's claims for delay and disruption could influence
concern for fairness and potential for dispute. This should be a useful
exercise in that it would suggest ways of reducing potential for disputes
in construction project delivery. This study is an attempt to fill this
research gap. Drawing on social psychology theory, this study proposes
that, in order to enhance perceived fairness and thereby reduce potential
for dispute, (1) the claims certifier needs to exercise a higher degree of
process and content control over the early stages of process for handling
claims than the control exercised by the employer and contractor; (2) the
claims certifier must exercise total decision control so as to enhance the
perceived impartiality and neutrality of the decision rendered on the
claims. By examining two litigated cases, the study illustrates the
relationship between distribution of control, perceived lack of fairness
and dispute potential. By adopting the proposed principle for distributing
control into the claims handling process and coupled with the use of an
independent claims certifier, potential for dispute could be reduced on
construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Claims, delay and disruption claims, claims process, control, fairness, dispute,
X-DOI: 10.1080/14697010500226954
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14697010500226954
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:1:p:45-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Maggie Mei-ki Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Maggie Mei-ki
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Impact of stress-coping behaviour on estimation performance
Abstract:
The accuracy of an estimate may directly affect the success or failure of
a project. Therefore, it is common for estimators in the construction
industry to experience a great deal of stress. An appropriate coping
behaviour can help estimators to adjust to stress, thereby optimizing
their estimation performance. This study aims at identifying estimators'
stress-coping behaviours and the impact of these behaviours on estimation
performance. In order to understand the stress management of estimators in
the industry, the paper investigates the impacts of stress-coping
behaviours for two experienced estimator groups with different working
experience in Hong Kong. Using correlation analysis and regression
analysis, the relationships among stress, coping behaviours and estimation
performance were examined. The results revealed that senior estimators
normally apply problem-focused coping behaviours to alleviate the stress
encountered in their jobs and to improve their estimation performance. A
moderate level of stress supports project estimation for project
estimators and the cooperative relationship between colleagues for senior
estimators. It is suggested that time and stress management training be
provided to senior estimators in order to relieve their stress effectively
and ensure work efficiency, while a good team spirit should also be
fostered in a company to encourage constructive relationships and thus
improve estimation performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-67
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Coping behaviours, construction estimators, estimation performance, stress,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500228381
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500228381
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:1:p:55-67
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Francis Adams
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Adams
Title: Expert elicitation and Bayesian analysis of construction contract risks: an investigation
Abstract:
Formal risk analysis techniques applied in managing construction project
risks tend to focus on risks that lend themselves to 'objective' methods
of economic analysis. Although subjective probabilities and Bayesian
methods are applied successfully in other industries to manage
'subjective' risks similar to those encountered in construction contracts,
very little is reported on the application of such methods for analysing
risks in construction contracts. An investigation has been carried out
into using subjective expert opinions and Bayesian methods in construction
contract risk analysis. The elicitation of expert opinions about the risk
of encountering adverse ground conditions on construction sites is
examined. Prior distributions of expert opinions about the risk form the
critical component in the Bayesian analysis of risk. The conclusion of
this is that although construction professionals have difficulty
estimating intermediate and tail values of probability distributions,
elicitation techniques can be used to develop prior distributions of
contract risks which, coupled with sample information on the risks, would
enable the Bayesian analysis of risks. Effective strategies for
systematically analysing significant individual contract risks often
covered under an 'arbitrary' project contingency sum can now be developed
to enhance the risk management efforts of contractors and construction
experts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 81-96
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Subjective probabilities, elicitation techniques, Bayesian analysis, risk analysis, Delphi techniques,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310254
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310254
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nigel Dann
Author-X-Name-First: Nigel
Author-X-Name-Last: Dann
Author-Name: Sarah Hills
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Hills
Author-Name: Derek Worthing
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Worthing
Title: Assessing how organizations approach the maintenance management of listed buildings
Abstract:
Preventative maintenance has been identified as a key intervention in
protecting built cultural heritage. How organizations approach the
maintenance management of listed buildings in their care is explored using
a framework which integrates best practice from the general maintenance
management and conservation sectors. At present both heritage and
non-heritage organizations are falling short of a best-practice approach.
Although there is increasing awareness among heritage organizations about
the importance of maintenance, these organizations lack a systematic and
integrated approach to maintenance that centres on the idea of explicitly
using the identification of cultural significance and vulnerability as the
key reference point for management decisions and actions. While many of
the non-heritage organizations had adopted aspects of a best-practice
approach to general maintenance management, these had not been
recontextualized for the needs of the listed stock. There is a need for a
step change to ensure that the retention of cultural significance and
minimal intervention set the context for maintenance management strategies
and implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-104
Issue: 1
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Maintenance management, listed buildings,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500249510
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500249510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:1:p:97-104
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Odysseus Manoliadis
Author-X-Name-First: Odysseus
Author-X-Name-Last: Manoliadis
Author-Name: Ioannis Tsolas
Author-X-Name-First: Ioannis
Author-X-Name-Last: Tsolas
Author-Name: Alexandra Nakou
Author-X-Name-First: Alexandra
Author-X-Name-Last: Nakou
Title: Sustainable construction and drivers of change in Greece: a Delphi study
Abstract:
During the last decade, sustainable development issues have been
gradually adopted in Greece's construction industry, changing the
traditional methods and technology. The aim of this investigation is to
identify potential drivers of change, to position them properly in the
wider context of sustainable construction and to outline the progress to
be expected in the coming decade. The methodological framework used is a
Delphi technique based on a questionnaire of 20 experts (consultant
engineers, construction managers and contractors). The results show that
the most important influences on sustainable construction in Greece are
energy conservation measures, resource conservation strategies and waste
reduction. In terms of the initiatives expected in the coming decade,
energy conservation measures, waste reduction measures, as well as product
innovation and certification are expected to rank high. In conclusion, the
results are consistent with those of previous researchers showing
significant trends towards land use, energy, and resource conservation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-120
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Change, sustainable construction, Delphi method, Greece, construction policy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204804
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204804
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:113-120
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Author-Name: Christine Pasquire
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasquire
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Benefit evaluation for off-site production in construction
Abstract:
Evaluating to what extent a component or building system should be
produced off-site is inadequate within the industry. The potential
benefits of off-site production (OSP) are commonly cited when justifying
an OSP approach, yet holistic and methodical assessments of the
applicability and overall benefit of these solutions, to a particular
project, have been found to be deficient. Common methods of evaluation
simply take material, labour and transportation costs into account when
comparing various options, often disregarding other cost-related items
such as site facilities, crane use and rectification of works. These cost
factors are usually buried within the nebulous preliminaries figure, with
little reference to the building approach taken. Further, softer issues
such as health and safety, effects on management and process benefits are
either implicit or disregarded within these comparison exercises. Yet it
is demonstrated that these issues are some of the most significant
benefits of OSP. A series of case studies demonstrated that evaluation
focus is almost solely on direct material and labour costs of components,
without explicit regard for the wider cost or soft issue implications of
OSP on a project. The paper argues that until evaluation is more holistic
and value-based rather than cost-based, OSP uptake in construction will be
slow.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 121-130
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Benefits, evaluation, off-site production, pre-assembly, value,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184444
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184444
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:121-130
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Igal Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Author-Name: Monica Paciuk
Author-X-Name-First: Monica
Author-X-Name-Last: Paciuk
Title: Service life prediction of exterior cladding components under failure conditions
Abstract:
The reliability of service life prediction of building components
strongly affects the effectiveness of maintenance policy setting. Despite
continuous research and development efforts, existing methods still suffer
lack of robustness. Typical failure mechanisms in exterior cladding
systems, deterioration patterns, and service life limiting coefficients
(modifying factors) are identified for a range of failure mechanisms. The
method is based on monitoring the physical and visual performance of
building components under similar service conditions, at different periods
in the building service life. Three types of exterior cladding are
studied: cementitious mortar, synthetic rendering, and ceramic mosaic.
Failure mechanisms identified include: lack of design details (such as
drip-edge and expansion joints), faulty design under marine environment,
exposure to air pollution, and poor workmanship. Three typical
deterioration patterns under failure conditions were determined
statistically, namely, linear, exponential and logarithmic. The proposed
method addresses two issues raised in ISO-15686 in order to improve the
precision and reliability of service life forecasting: (a) modifying
factors for quantifying the effect of failure mechanisms are estimated
within 80% confidence limits and (b) the prediction models yield high
degrees of fit to the data (coefficient of determination values ranging
between R 2 = 0.88 and R 2 = 0.96 at a 0.0001 level of
significance).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-148
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Service life prediction, performance, premature deterioration, exterior cladding, durability,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184535
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184535
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:131-148
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Leishman
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Leishman
Author-Name: Fran Warren
Author-X-Name-First: Fran
Author-X-Name-Last: Warren
Title: Private housing design customization through house type substitution
Abstract:
The private house building industry is increasingly under pressure to
increase output and broaden the appeal of new-build housing to consumers.
One possible method for meeting these objectives is through increased use
of standardized components to facilitate house type customization. This
research focuses on the role of planning and building regulations in
permitting the house building industry to respond in this way. Using a
database of standardized house types, the analysis examines variation
within and between house builders' house type ranges. The analysis shows
that the underlying variation between house types of a given size is
relatively narrow but that volume builders maintain a comparatively large
range of house types. Results from a simulation model demonstrate the
positive impact of broadening house type choice on levels of consumer
satisfaction. The main conclusion is that a form of house type
customization could be achieved through the use of house type
substitution.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 149-158
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: House building, standardized house types, customization, consumer choice, planning and building regulations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204754
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204754
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:149-158
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hong Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Hong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Title: Heuristic scheduling of resource-constrained, multiple-mode and repetitive projects
Abstract:
An alternative heuristic method for scheduling repetitive projects in
which resources are limited and activities may be executed with multiple
modes of resource demands associated with different durations is proposed.
Unlike general heuristic methods that separately analyze each competing
activity and schedule only one at a time, the proposed heuristic algorithm
ranks possible combinations of activities every time and simultaneously
schedules all activities in the selected combination leading to minimal
project duration. All alternative combinations of activities in
consideration of resource constraints, multiple modes and characteristics
of the repetitive projects are determined through a permutation tree-based
procedure. The heuristic method is implemented based on the corresponding
framework. An example is presented to demonstrate the efficiency of the
proposed heuristic method. The study is expected to provide an efficient
heuristic methodology for solving the project scheduling problem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 159-169
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Scheduling, heuristic algorithm, repetitive projects, resource-constraints, multiple modes, a combination of activities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500184311
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500184311
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:159-169
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Chih-Chiang Tien
Author-X-Name-First: Chih-Chiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Tien
Title: Quantifying uncertainty and equivocality in engineering projects
Abstract:
Engineering work is intangible and difficult to measure and manage.
Engineering project tasks entail various degrees of uncertainty and
equivocality (U&E). Quantifying U&E of project tasks helps understand and
manage engineering work. This study developed an assessing questionnaire
from five sources of U&E and tested it on a large subway design project.
Questions were answered by nine discipline managers of 58 tasks and the
quantified U&E scores reflect reality. It was found that uncertainty is
higher than equivocality for most tasks. The U&E reduction test shows that
task U&E decrease over one year and different reduction patterns exist.
Task-possessed information contributes the largest decrease. This means
information from planning, past projects or experiences is very important
to performing new projects. The developed questionnaire can be a useful
tool to help managers better understand and plan project tasks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 171-184
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Case study, information processing, organizational theory, project management, uncertainty,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310353
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310353
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:171-184
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Title: Does a supportive work environment moderate the relationship between work-family conflict and burnout among construction professionals?
Abstract:
Research findings concerning the extent to which various forms of support
in the workplace moderate the stressor-strain relationship are
inconsistent. The effect of perceived organizational support (POS) and
support from supervisors and co-workers in the relationship between
work-family conflict (WFC) and burnout was examined in a sample of 202
construction professionals and managers. The results revealed that POS has
a main effect on burnout and also moderates the relationship between WFC
and burnout. The effect of social support did not differ according to its
source. Effects for supervisory and co-worker support were similar.
However, different effects were found for different types of support.
Emotional support had a main effect on burnout but not a moderating effect
in the WFC-burnout relationship. Practical support had a moderating
effect, but not a main effect on burnout. The importance of supportive
work environments to the success of interventions designed to alleviate or
prevent employee burnout is discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 185-196
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Work-family conflict, burnout, social support, co-workers, supervisors, perceived organizational support,
X-DOI: 10.1080/14697010500226913
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14697010500226913
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:185-196
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Muya
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Muya
Author-Name: A. D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: A. D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: F. T. Edum-Fotwe
Author-X-Name-First: F. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edum-Fotwe
Title: Overview of funding for construction craft skills training in Sub-Saharan Africa: a case study of Zambia
Abstract:
The wealth of any nation is ultimately based on its human resource or
social capital. Education and training are the primary vehicles of
developing this resource. Funding of formal construction craft skills
training at trade institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is examined,
using Zambia as a country case study. The data in the research were
collected via semi-structured questionnaire interviews directed at
government financed trades training schools offering construction
programmes in Zambia. Results of the research show that formal
construction craft skills training in Zambia has not been adequately
funded over the years resulting in: ill-qualified low numbers of poorly
remunerated teaching staff; poorly maintained infrastructure and workshop
facilities not well equipped for teaching purposes; and out-dated
curricula of construction craft programmes. A wide range of measures is
required to improve funding for construction craft skills training. These
include: increased training regulation and co-ordination by government,
development of efficient and effective funding mechanisms that involve
employers of crafts-persons, and training provision frameworks that
encourage increased involvement of private training providers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 197-208
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction craft skills, training, Sub-Saharan Africa, Zambia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310585
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310585
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:197-208
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Gary Holt
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Holt
Title: Hand-arm vibration exposure from construction tools: results of a field study
Abstract:
By the nature of its activities, construction poses a significant risk
from hand-arm vibration (HAV). The Control of Vibration at Work
Regulations place a duty upon employers to limit HAV exposure, which can
entail risk assessment of hand-held tools (by using vibration magnitude
data). A field study recorded vibration measurements from a range of
hand-held construction tools, so that the 'characteristics' of their
vibration data could be explored. Substantial variance among vibration
data are confirmed resulting from: method of vibration measurement; tool
manufacturing tolerances; sharpness of tools' cutting edges; and differing
operator techniques. Results of these measurements and analyses provide
guidance for construction managers for performing HAV risk assessments.
This includes preference for 'real' data over those from controlled
conditions, and the need to recognize potential data variance when
calculating operators' maximum exposure times.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-217
Issue: 2
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Hand-arm vibration, hand tools, vibration, health and safety, site operatives,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500310643
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500310643
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:2:p:209-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farzad Khosrowshahi
Author-X-Name-First: Farzad
Author-X-Name-Last: Khosrowshahi
Title: Professor Rodney Howes, 1943-2005
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 227-228
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500466601
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500466601
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:227-228
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: The determinants of the vertical boundaries of the construction firm: comment
Abstract:
In recent years, the study of organizational issues has made a tremendous
progress owing to the development of two powerful analytical theories -
transaction cost economics (TCE) and the resource-based view (RBV). Both
approaches have their strengths and limitations and thus researchers might
think that synthesizing would be a way forward, Bridge and Tisdell (2004)
being a case. In synthesizing TCE and RBV, several problems need to be
overcome. First, there is a fundamental disparity in the basic assumption
of rationality adopted by transaction cost economics (TCE) and. second,
even after being operationalized for discovering the key determinants of
the concept of competence, it still cannot escape the charge of tautology.
Last, the inclusion of competence/resource and TCE-related variables may
increase predictive power, but the potentially high correlation between
asset specificity and rarity, as well as costliness to imitate, are likely
to cause the multicollinearity problem that may reduce the reliability of
estimators and hence disguise the true effect of each variable on
construction contracting. Even if the critiques of tautology and
multicollinearity can be technically overcome, ontological tension will
remain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-232
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Subcontracting, transaction cost, competence-based approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500516579
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500516579
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:229-232
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Author-Name: Clem Tisdell
Author-X-Name-First: Clem
Author-X-Name-Last: Tisdell
Title: The determinants of the vertical boundaries of the construction firm: response
Abstract:
Chang seems to suggest that developing closer relations between
Transaction Cost Economics (TCE) and the Resource-Based View (RBV) is not
yet needed. However, we are unmoved in our belief that this development is
compelling and remain committed to our approach to pluralism. We disagree
with Chang's critiques of our approach. We clarify that a synthesis of TCE
and RBV along the lines of theoretical monism is not attempted. On this
basis, two of the three questions raised, labelled 'ontological
dissonance' and 'variable multicollinearity', are not applicable. With
regard to the other question that relates to refutability, Barney has
shown that the variables are refutable and Barney also makes reference to
empirical work pertaining to RBV. We agree with Chang that TCE is weak on
differential production and believe that an acceptance of the coexistence
of TCE and RBV is likely to make both theories more successful on the
issue of vertical integration. In the end, pluralism appeals as much to us
as it does to the chief proponents of TCE and RBV, as a means of making
progress in the near term.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 233-236
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction firm, vertical boundaries, transaction costs, capability, competence,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600604895
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600604895
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:233-236
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: A. D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: K. Chahal
Author-X-Name-First: K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chahal
Title: A strategic framework for change management
Abstract:
Many organizations have undergone substantial change over recent years
and the importance of organizational culture to organizational analysis
and change management has been increasingly recognized. However, the
implementation of change is a complex process that is not always
successful due to a variety of reasons. Failure in most change processes
can be traced back to poor communications and underestimation of the
amount of retraining required. The main aim of this research is to
identify the key steps that could improve the management of change.
Literature relating to organizational culture, the need for change, types
of change and resistance to change was used to develop a theoretical basis
for the research. Organizational change management case studies and
exploratory interviews were used to document experiences of organizational
change and develop a strategic framework for change management. Validation
was through acceptance and adoption of the developed process within a
construction-based organization. The research has demonstrated how
well-planned change helps to ensure that change is successfully
implemented. Critical to successful change is not only the development of
more efficient and effective processes but alignment of organizational
culture to support these new processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-251
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Change, culture, strategy, framework, organization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500227011
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500227011
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:237-251
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: D. R. Ogunsemi
Author-X-Name-First: D. R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogunsemi
Author-Name: G. O. Jagboro
Author-X-Name-First: G. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jagboro
Title: Time-cost model for building projects in Nigeria
Abstract:
The concept of project duration is important in assessing the success or
viability of a construction project. A time-cost relationship for
construction projects in Nigeria has been developed based on Bromilow's
time-cost model. Cost data on 87 completed building projects executed
within the period 1991-2000 were obtained. The data were subjected to
regression analyses using double log and later the piecewise model with
breakpoint. For the Nigerian situation, the Bromilow's time-cost model was
found to be T = 63C0.262 with poor predictive abilities
(R = 0.453, R2 = 0.205). An improved model using
piecewise model with good predictive abilities (R = 0.875,
R2 = 0.765) was found to be T = 118.563-0.401C (C
≤ 408) or 603.427 + 0.610C (C>408). The model is shown to be
useful in predicting construction project durations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 253-258
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Project management, cost, time, cost modelling, Nigeria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500521041
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500521041
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:253-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wen-Der Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Wen-Der
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Title: PIREM: a new model for conceptual cost estimation
Abstract:
A new conceptual construction cost estimating method, namely, Principal
Item Ratios Estimating Method (PIREM), is presented. The proposed PIREM
integrates several existing conceptual estimating methods (including
parametric estimating, ratios estimating, and cost significant model) with
advanced nonlinear mapping techniques, and adopts a scheme that separates
unit prices with the quantities of a cost item. It allows estimators to
estimate based on the prevailing unit prices in the marketplace, thus the
fluctuation of prices can be reflected on a real-time basis. Two
comprehensive case studies were conducted for verification of PIREM. The
demonstration case studies show that PIREM is able to provide accurate and
the most updated estimates when advanced mapping technologies are
incorporated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-270
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Conceptual cost estimation, parametric estimation, project planning, nonlinear mapping,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500183735
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500183735
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:259-270
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: T. A. El-Diraby
Author-X-Name-First: T. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Diraby
Author-Name: S. M. Gill
Author-X-Name-First: S. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gill
Title: A taxonomy for construction terms in privatized-infrastructure finance: supporting semantic exchange of project risk information
Abstract:
There is an increasing need for effective flow of information between the
various participants in privatized infrastructure projects particularly
between construction companies and financial institutions. A taxonomy is
developed for relevant concepts in the domain of privatized-infrastructure
finance. The taxonomy is an attempt to create information interoperability
between the construction and financial industries. The taxonomy models the
concepts of a privatized-infrastructure finance into six main domains:
processes, products, projects, actors, resources and technical topics
(technical details and basic concepts). The taxonomy was designed to be
consistent with Open Financial Exchange (OFX). It was developed through
the analysis of 10 case studies and involvement in project development and
interaction with industry experts. The taxonomy was validated through
interviews with domain experts, and through the analysis of two
independent case studies. A prototypical semantic web-based portal for
communicating project risks was developed to in order to illustrate the
use of the taxonomy. Project partners are able to post and view risk items
and their status in this portal, observe who is handling them, be aware of
what decisions have been made to manage them and what lessons learned are
available to address these risks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 271-285
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Privatized infrastructure, project finance, semantic web,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500434971
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500434971
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:271-285
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vivian Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Vivian
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: L. Y. Shen
Author-X-Name-First: L. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: S. X. Zeng
Author-X-Name-First: S. X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zeng
Author-Name: C. M. Ho
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Title: Environmental performance assessment: perceptions of project managers on the relationship between operational and environmental performance indicators
Abstract:
There is a growing concern about environmental impacts resulting from
construction activities. To help minimize the environmental impacts from
construction, Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) have been advocated
and in some cases, implemented. Within the construction industry,
Environmental Performance Assessment (EPA) forms one of the most important
tools in monitoring and evaluating environmental performance. However, the
relations between Environmental Operational Indicators (EOIs) (inputs)
used in EPA and Environmental Performance Indicators (EPIs) (outputs) have
not been tested and correlated, casting doubt on the reliability of these
inputs. This paper attempts to develop a series of input (EOI) and output
(EPI) indicators for EPA and measure their relations based on the
perceptions of project managers. The results show that EOIs defined
correlate strongly with EPIs. Therefore, EPA can help to identify areas
for continuous improvement, and also provide an early indication of the
environmental performance for an organization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 287-299
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Environmental management system, environmental performance assessment, operational levels, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500372197
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500372197
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:287-299
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Title: Technological innovation in PPPs: incentives, opportunities and actions
Abstract:
From a construction perspective, Public-Private Partnership projects
(PPPs) are often credited as providing real incentives for the actors
involved as well as a business environment that is conducive to innovation
and improved practices. The validity of four common rhetorical arguments
used to promote the PPP procurement route is explored: collaborative
working, design freedom, long-term commitment and risk transfer.
Particular interest is given to the extent to which espoused intentions
correlate with experienced realities in allowing actors involved in the
design and construction phases to be presented with, and able to exploit,
opportunities for technological innovation. It is argued that there is
reason to be cautious in fully accepting the purported benefits of the PPP
framework and that the arguments often presented need to be revised.
Alternative interpretations are provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 301-308
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Public-private partnership, technological innovation, risk transfer, collaborative working, design freedom, long term commitment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435028
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435028
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:301-308
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Predicting construction firm performance: an empirical assessment of the differential impact between industry- and firm-specific factors
Abstract:
It is obvious that the performance of firms hinges upon the dynamics of
both industry- and firm-specific factors. A less obvious, and perhaps a
more important, line of inquiry is that to the extent that they have a
bearing on firm performance, how much do these two groups of factors
respectively predict firm performance? To date, performance differences
among construction firms that stem from industry- and firm-specific
differential effect has remained largely unexplored. Using a dataset
comprising 526 firms across various construction-related sectors, the
sector-by-sector firm performance variation that is attributable to the
heterogeneity of both industry- and firm-specific characteristics was
empirically examined. That statistically significant results of different
effect sizes are found indicates that although these factors are often
assumed to be intertwined it is possible to study their respective impact
on firm performance. Future studies could usefully replicate and extend
this study to construction firms in other countries to further investigate
what drives firm performance under different national, industry and firm
contexts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 309-320
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Firm performance, performance heterogeneity, industry-specific factors, firm-specific factors, institutional environment, resource-based view,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435127
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435127
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:309-320
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vachara Peansupap
Author-X-Name-First: Vachara
Author-X-Name-Last: Peansupap
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: Innovation diffusion at the implementation stage of a construction project: a case study of information communication technology
Abstract:
Interest in construction industry (CI) innovation, particularly in
information communication technology (ICT), has been steadily growing with
the advent and widespread use of the Internet. However, despite its
potential for delivering competitive advantage, many companies have failed
to effectively realize promised benefits from ICT due to misunderstanding
the relationship between factors and processes influencing ICT
implementation. Results from recent in-depth qualitative ICT
implementation research on three construction contractors provides useful
insights and practical experience of lessons learned that can be more
broadly disseminated. These research results provide an ICT innovation
diffusion organizational level framework with insights about how it may be
applied to improve ICT adoption at different implementation stages for the
CI. They suggest that strategic ICT implementation planning needs to
consider issues of critical management support, technical support,
supportive workplace environment and ICT users' individual-characteristics
so that the framework processes offered can be effectively applied.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 321-332
Issue: 3
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Innovation diffusion, IT implementation, technology management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435317
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435317
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:3:p:321-332
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rodney Stewart
Author-X-Name-First: Rodney
Author-X-Name-Last: Stewart
Author-Name: Clinton Spencer
Author-X-Name-First: Clinton
Author-X-Name-Last: Spencer
Title: Six-sigma as a strategy for process improvement on construction projects: a case study
Abstract:
Significant expenditures of time, money and resources, both human and
material, are wasted each year as a result of inefficient or non-existent
quality management procedures. In an attempt to improve their market
competitiveness, by limiting the extent of non-value-adding activities,
some organizations are beginning to monitor the performance of internal
and external engineering and construction processes. To achieve these bold
aims, these organizations are looking to other industries such as
manufacturing to examine the effectiveness of measuring and monitoring
tools such as six-sigma. Only in recent years has the six-sigma method
been utilized by some of the major players in the construction sector. To
familiarize both researchers and practitioners on how to implement the
six-sigma method and its potential benefits, the paper describes the
outcomes of a six-sigma process improvement project (PIP) conducted for
the construction of concrete longitudinal beams on the St Pancras raised
railway station in London, UK. The outcome of the six-sigma PIP was the
improved productivity of beam construction, enhanced interaction between
project teams and reduced project delays. Moreover, interviews with key
project participants were conducted to determine the success factors,
barriers, suitability and advantages of the six-sigma approach compared
with other TQM techniqes. In summary, the six-sigma approach provided the
PIP team with a structured process improvement strategy to reduce waste
and other non-value adding activities from the construction process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 339-348
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Six-sigma, process improvement, total quality management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500521082
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500521082
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:339-348
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. M. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: C. W. Y. Wong
Author-X-Name-First: C. W. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: A. Y. T. Leung
Author-X-Name-First: A. Y. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: K. C. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: K. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Title: Selection of funding schemes by a borrowing decision model: a Hong Kong case study
Abstract:
In financial decision-making, a number of mathematical models have been
developed for financial management in construction. However, optimizing
both qualitative and quantitative factors and the semi-structured nature
of construction finance optimization problems are key challenges in
solving construction finance decisions. The selection of funding schemes
by a modified construction loan acquisition model is solved by an adaptive
genetic algorithm (AGA) approach. The basic objectives of the model are to
optimize the loan and to minimize the interest payments for all projects.
Multiple projects being undertaken by a medium-size construction firm in
Hong Kong were used as a real case study to demonstrate the application of
the model to the borrowing decision problems. A compromise monthly
borrowing schedule was finally achieved. The results indicate that Small
and Medium Enterprise (SME) Loan Guarantee Scheme (SGS) was first
identified as the source of external financing. Selection of sources of
funding can then be made to avoid the possibility of financial problems in
the firm by classifying qualitative factors into external, interactive and
internal types and taking additional qualitative factors including
sovereignty, credit ability and networking into consideration. Thus a more
accurate, objective and reliable borrowing decision can be provided for
the decision-maker to analyse the financial options.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 349-365
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction firm, genetic algorithm, loan and finance, optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500434906
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500434906
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:349-365
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cassidy Johnson
Author-X-Name-First: Cassidy
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnson
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Author-Name: Colin Davidson
Author-X-Name-First: Colin
Author-X-Name-Last: Davidson
Title: A systems view of temporary housing projects in post-disaster reconstruction
Abstract:
Natural cataclysms (earthquakes, hurricanes and so forth) become natural
disasters when they coincide with vulnerabilities; unfortunately, informal
settlements in developing countries are only too often highly vulnerable -
a reality amply and unhappily confirmed by available statistics. In this
context, reconstruction projects are sandwiched between the short-term
necessity to act promptly and the long-term requirements of sustainable
community development - a situation that is currently reflected in
alternative and conflicting paradigms at the policy level. Adopting a
case-study approach, we explore the use of temporary housing within two
post-disaster environments, where the impact of different organizational
designs leads to fundamentally different solutions to the short-term
housing problem. Our research adopts a dynamic systems approach,
associating strategic organizational team design with the development of
tactical technical proposals. Two case studies from Turkey and Colombia
show that a coherent approach to the sequential stages of providing
immediate shelter, temporary housing and permanent reconstruction is not
always obtained. The research results emphasize that the performance of
reconstruction projects is directly linked to the design and management of
the project team.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 367-378
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Natural disasters, organizational design, post-disaster reconstruction, systems approach, temporary housing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600567977
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600567977
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:367-378
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-Lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Shih-Pei Chou
Author-X-Name-First: Shih-Pei
Author-X-Name-Last: Chou
Title: Valuation of the minimum revenue guarantee and the option to abandon in BOT infrastructure projects
Abstract:
The real option approach is used to value the minimum revenue guarantee
(MRG) and the option to abandon in Build-Operate-Transfer infrastructure
projects. The option to abandon is formulated under an investment option
held by the concessionaire at contract signing and to expire before
construction commencement. MRG is formulated as a series of European style
put options in a single option pricing model. When combined with the
option to abandon in the pre-construction phase, MRG is reconstructed as a
series of European style call options to develop a compound option pricing
formula. The Taiwan High-Speed Rail Project is chosen as a numerical case
to apply the formulas. The results show both MRG and the option to abandon
can create values. When MRG and the option to abandon are combined, they
will counteract each other and their values will thus be reduced.
Increasing the MRG level will decrease the value of the option to abandon,
and, at a certain MRG level, the option to abandon will be rendered
worthless.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 379-389
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: BOT, infrastructure, real option, option to abandon, minimum revenue guarantee,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500434997
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500434997
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:379-389
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Franco Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Franco
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: A modified storey enclosure model
Abstract:
James' Storey Enclosure Method (JSEM), developed in 1954, is considered
by many to be the most sophisticated single-rate method ever devised for
early-design-stage tender price forecasts. However, the method is seldom
used in practice partly because it has been superseded by multi-rate
methods (such as the elemental method) and partly due to the arbitrary
nature of the weightings prescribed for its use. The approach has been
further developed and empirical values of the weightings are derived by
multivariate regression analysis. A set of 50 completed Hong Kong private
housing projects is used to demonstrate the use of the technique. This
involves, firstly, the modification of the variables used in the original
JSEM to incorporate the special characteristics of Hong Kong multi-storey
residential buildings. This results in what is termed here as a Modified
James' Storey Enclosure Model (MJSEM). Next, the optimal number of
variables for inclusion in the model is identified by means of a dual
stepwise cross validation regression procedure - resulting in a Regressed
Modified Model for James' Storey Enclosure Method (RMJSEM). In addition,
using an amended version of MJSEM, the dual stepwise cross validation
regression is used to produce a Regressed Modified Model for Amended
Storey Enclosure Method (RMASEM). The forecasting accuracy of RMJSEM and
RMASEM is then compared with that of MJSEM together with the floor area
and cube method to provide an indication of the improvement achieved. It
is shown that the RMASEM provides significantly more consistent forecasts
than the MJSEM and floor area models, leading to the conclusion that
RMASEM may be the best model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 391-405
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Forecasts, cost model, regression, cross validation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435093
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435093
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:391-405
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: A. V. Thomas
Author-X-Name-First: A. V.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas
Author-Name: Satyanarayana Kalidindi
Author-X-Name-First: Satyanarayana
Author-X-Name-Last: Kalidindi
Author-Name: L. S. Ganesh
Author-X-Name-First: L. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ganesh
Title: Modelling and assessment of critical risks in BOT road projects
Abstract:
Over the years, many private sector participation (PSP) models have been
evolved for infrastructure procurement and the Build-Operate-Transfer
(BOT) model is one of the most common approaches used for the same.
Private infrastructure projects under BOT arrangement have a complex risk
profile and to a considerable extent, the success of any BOT project is
influenced by the degree to which various project risks are managed. The
major steps involved in risk management of a project are risk
identification, risk assessment and the processes of prioritization and
response to the risks. The conventional risk assessment approaches may not
be effective in privatized infrastructure projects because of the fact
that, they have very long project lifecycle with many country and sector
specific risk factors. The assessment of complex risks is often a
difficult task when past data on similar risks are not available. In this
research, a risk probability and impact assessment framework based on
fuzzy-fault tree and the Delphi method is proposed. The framework includes
extensive scenario modelling of critical risks in projects and systematic
processing of professional judgement (subjective knowledge) of experts and
is developed and demonstrated in the context of critical risks in Indian
BOT road projects. Detailed scenario modelling of most critical risks such
as traffic revenue risk, delay in land acquisition, demand risk and delay
in financial closure are also presented. The proposed risk assessment
framework is generic and can be applied with appropriate modifications to
suit any complex developmental project where past data is inadequate for
risk assessment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 407-424
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: BOT projects, risk modelling, risk assessment, fuzzy sets, possibility distribution,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435275
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:407-424
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joe Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Joe
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Eddie Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: Construction project risks: further considerations for constructors' pricing in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Construction project risks affect contractors' tender price. A host of
factors influencing tender prices were identified and the importance of
these factors evaluated by making use of the data collected in a postal
questionnaire survey conducted to the 'Buildings' contractors in Hong
Kong. Out of 60 factors identified, the availability of required cash,
uncertainty in costs estimates, urgent need for work, past experience in
similar projects and contract size are considered most important. The need
for work and the amount of experience are similar to those factors
affecting bidding decisions of top UK contractors. The findings suggest
that in the upward adjustment of tender prices, the large-size contractors
are more concerned with the uncertainty in costs estimates while the
medium- and small-size contractors care more about no past experience. In
the downward adjustment of prices, the large size of the contract is the
main factor affecting the pricing of the large- and medium-size
contractors while the urgent need for work is the main drive for the
small-size ones. There are significant differences between the
contractors' perceptions of the importance of the risk factors. This is
consistent with differing attitudes towards bid mark-up decisions of the
large- and medium-size contractors in Singapore.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 425-438
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction project risks, importance indices, bidding, mark-up, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601602
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601602
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:425-438
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rick Best
Author-X-Name-First: Rick
Author-X-Name-Last: Best
Author-Name: Craig Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: Evaluation of construction contractor performance: a critical analysis of some recent research
Abstract:
International comparisons of construction industry performance are
notoriously difficult. A recent comparative study, extensive in scope and
using an innovative approach, is reviewed and questions raised regarding
various aspects of the methodology adopted, the validity of the
conclusions drawn and manner in which outcomes were reported. Particular
areas of concern include the unequivocal statement of conclusions that are
based on a small sample, and the use of data from that sample that are, in
fact, no more than estimates of project performance. Attention is drawn to
the limitations of the research reported and the reliability of the
methods used, and the data gathered is examined.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 439-445
Issue: 4
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: International construction, industry comparisons, purchasing power parity, construction research,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435457
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435457
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:4:p:439-445
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond Levitt
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Levitt
Title: Boyd C. Paulson, Jr died on 1 December 2005, in Menlo Park, California
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 453-455
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600602931
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600602931
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:453-455
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Caven
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Caven
Title: Career building: women and non-standard employment in architecture
Abstract:
Non-standard working arrangements are traditionally associated with
insecure employment and thus said to act as a constraint on women
architects' careers. The working patterns of 37 women architects have been
examined using a career life history approach and findings indicate that
to follow non-standard working patterns in professional employment need
not necessarily serve to constrain and may even enhance women's career
development. Many of the women architects following non-standard forms of
employment find that it has been beneficial to their career. The recurring
theme from these interviews was the need to be able to follow a career but
on certain terms. The time commitment required prior to qualification
provides a strong motivation to continue working throughout their working
lives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 457-464
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Women, architecture, career,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601354
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:457-464
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ramesh Ramsaran
Author-X-Name-First: Ramesh
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramsaran
Author-Name: Roger Hosein
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosein
Title: Growth, employment and the construction industry in Trinidad and Tobago
Abstract:
Trinidad and Tobago is a small open oil- and gas-based economy that has
experienced the effects of boom and bust and the associated fluctuations
in income and employment. This paper focuses on the behaviour of the
construction sector and its relationship to income and employment over the
last three decades in this small oil-rich economy. In the boom period the
construction sector grew twice as fast as the rest of the economy.
Similarly, during the recession the construction sector contracted faster
than any other sector, providing proof that the multiplier operates in
both directions. The correlation coefficient between construction labour
productivity and per capita GDP for the period 1973-2002 was 0.70. As
pertains to employment in construction per thousand population and per
capita GDP, the correlation coefficient was 0.94.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 465-474
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction, employment, correlation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500521157
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500521157
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:465-474
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: C. Y. Yiu
Author-X-Name-First: C. Y.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yiu
Author-Name: C. S. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Title: Rational under-pricing in bidding strategy: a real options model
Abstract:
Under-pricing in construction tenders is a common phenomenon and is
commonly explained by the need of cash flows and penetration strategy.
However, these explanations involve profit cutting and therefore are not
plausible in explaining a long-term persistent phenomenon of
under-pricing. A real options model is proposed and using the binomial
lattice method a real-life construction project tender was analysed to
examine how management flexibility and uncertainty provide real options
value. When uncertainties of cost items in a tender exist and choices are
available to defer and switch modes of construction, then a valuable
option is available to the bidders. It amounts to about 4% of the lump sum
tendered in our case. The under-priced portion is the options value which
the bidder is willing to pay for the flexibility and the uncertainty.
These findings enable contractors to be more competitive and to estimate
construction costs more accurately in devising their bid strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 475-484
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Real options, pricing, bidding strategy, tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601560
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601560
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:475-484
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Serdar Kale
Author-X-Name-First: Serdar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kale
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Diffusion of ISO 9000 certification in the precast concrete industry
Abstract:
ISO 9000 is one of the most important administrative innovations of the
last two decades. The Turkish precast concrete industry is an interesting
example of the diffusion of this important administrative innovation.
Innovation diffusion theory proposes that the diffusion of an innovation
is driven by internal (i.e. behaviours of copying others) and external
(i.e. complying with client requirements, changes in government
regulations, demand conditions, and consulting firms' suggestions)
influence factors. The propositions of innovation diffusion theory are
empirically tested by using three mathematical models: the internal
influence model, the external influence model and the mixed influence
model. The mixed influence model has the highest explanatory power and the
diffusion of ISO 9000 certification in the precast concrete industry is
primarily driven by internal rather than external influence factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 485-495
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Innovation diffusion, quality control, quality assurance, ISO 9000 series, precast concrete industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601594
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601594
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:485-495
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Zhaoyang Fang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhaoyang
Author-X-Name-Last: Fang
Title: A power-based leadership approach to project management
Abstract:
The concept of leadership relates to power structuring whereby the
project leader may lead and motivate through power disposition. Power, in
its diverse guises, combines interpersonal and structural elements and can
be enhanced through political manoeuvring. Power may also be distributed
unevenly between individuals in the project team. In this article a
power-based model of project leadership is developed, underpinned by a
behaviour-performance-outcome approach and an appropriate methodology is
developed for testing the construction enterprises in China using
structural equations modelling. The fitness indices show that the
resulting model which postulates that the motivational function of good
leadership operates through managing power gaps by means of power-sharing
and power-amassing is acceptable. The effects (both predominant magnitudes
and statistical significance) from the project managers' referent power to
power-sharing and power-amassing show that the project manager's inherent
personal traits and credentials are critical to his/her power exercising
so as to motivate members to secure management effectiveness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 497-507
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Managerial behaviours, motivation, power, project leadership,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600567944
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600567944
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:497-507
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dansong Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Dansong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Ahmad Hadavi
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hadavi
Author-Name: Raymond Krizek
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Krizek
Title: Chinese construction firms in reform
Abstract:
Since the economic reforms that began 20 years ago, and especially with
the enterprise reforms in recent years, ownership of Chinese construction
firms has evolved from traditional state and collective ownership towards
a mixed economy characterised by diversified ownership forms. Based on a
questionnaire survey and personal interviews with individuals from firms
representing four types of ownership, it has been determined that the
majority of Chinese construction firms have already embraced commercial
objectives and behaviour patterns similar to those of typical firms in
developed market economies. Nevertheless, despite the important progress
that the reforms have made, this study indicated that various construction
firms during this transition are suffering serious difficulties caused by
the former planned system and underdeveloped market mechanisms. Unfair
practices were found to be quite serious in the construction market. Major
problems stem from clients' abnormal behaviour in forcing the price down,
asking contractors to finance a project wholly or partially during its
construction, and delays in payment; these actions have caused severe
financial difficulties to Chinese firms and seriously disrupted the normal
order of market stability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-519
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: China, Chinese construction firms, reform, firm objective, firm behaviour, ownership form,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600704810
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600704810
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:509-519
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Per-Erik Josephson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Josephson
Title: Revisiting site manager work: stuck in the middle?
Abstract:
The literature on middle managers tends to portray their role in rather
negative terms. Middle managers are here stuck in between superiors and
subordinates, with few opportunities for determining their work situation.
In the construction industry, site managers play a role similar to that of
the middle managers of large companies, located in between the firm's
strategic decisions and day-to-day production work on construction sites.
The aim of this study is to examine how site managers experience their
work situation. Drawing on an interview study encompassing 13 site
managers and seven foremen and top managers in 13 construction projects,
the research suggests that site managers are generally pleased with their
work situation even though they are critical of the demands made of them
to handle a variety of heterogeneous activities. However, a work situation
fraught with unanticipated challenges and ambiguities easily leads to
excessive workloads and long working hours. It is concluded that the
literature on middle managers presents too negative an image of middle
management and thus needs to revise the assumptions regarding the nature
of middle managerial work. In addition, the study also underlines the
needs of construction firms to regard their middle managers as a central
function and resource.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 521-528
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Site managers, construction projects, middle managers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658743
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:521-528
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: G. Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: J. Yang
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: Factors influencing the implementation of the raised floor system in Australian office buildings
Abstract:
Raised floor systems (RFS) were initially developed for computer room
applications. As an alternative for general office space fitout, they have
not been widely accepted, particularly in Australia. Despite the potential
exhibited, such as improved ventilation and air quality when used with
underfloor sub-systems, and the flexibility for office space
reconfiguration, RFS implementation had encountered problems, ranging from
the excessive costs perceived by owners and developers, to the lack of
technical expertise among builders and contractors on the installation of
RFS and specialized components. In the research work reported in this
article, these problems were identified together with the highlighting of
44 Significant Influence Factors (SIFs). This was achieved through RFS
product study, questionnaire survey, interviews and site observations.
These SIFs and problems were then amplified in the research by industry
focus groups and life cycle cost comparison between RFS and ceiling based
fitout methods. The resulting 36 Project Level Critical Factors (PLCFs)
pertaining to fitout design, construction, operation and maintenance were
then considered in a constructability study, which established an
integrated constructability framework for RFS fitout implementation, the
most appropriate contracting strategy, and a process-based model for RFS
product selection under local conditions. A set of guidelines that
recommend main activities and subsidiary tasks through five stages of RFS
project implementation was also presented. These findings will contribute
to improved awareness, adoption rate and implementation efficiency of RFS
fitout in the Australian office building industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 529-543
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Australia, constructability, fitout, office building, raised floor system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600568025
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:529-543
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charles Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Author-Name: Jicai Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jicai
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Valuing governmental support in infrastructure projects as real options using Monte Carlo simulation
Abstract:
In Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) infrastructure projects, host governments
often provide subsidies, guarantees or alternative forms of support as
incentives to attract private sector participation. A guaranteed level of
minimum revenue, for example, can be specially designed to alleviate the
concern of demand risk. Although researchers have generally acknowledged
the significance of subsidies and guarantees leading toward successful
negotiation, there is a lack of attempt to evaluate these concessions
quantitatively. Without a deeper understanding of the value of these
concessions, risk and reward may not be equitably matched in the proposed
terms and arrangements. In this paper, relevant elements of a contractual
package are treated as a form of real options. A proposition is put
forward to incorporate the value of such options into the negotiation
framework. By relying on simplifying assumptions on risk preferences,
these options can be evaluated using Monte Carlo simulation of a
discounted cash flow (DCF) model. The methodology is applied to the case
of the Malaysia-Singapore Second Crossing, which shows that the value of a
guarantee can indeed be significant relative to the basic net present
value. The case study also highlights other aspects of flexibility in the
design and execution of a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-554
Issue: 5
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Build-operate-transfer, concessions, infrastructure projects, negotiation, real option,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435572
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435572
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:5:p:545-554
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Hartmann
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartmann
Title: The context of innovation management in construction firms
Abstract:
Conscious management of innovation in construction firms is becoming more
and more a necessity. However, the possibilities and ways to successfully
put an innovative idea into practice depend on a range of contingencies. A
framework of innovation management was devised to structure the context
variables of construction innovation. Furthermore, an analytical approach
was developed to enable researchers as well as construction managers to
detect those variables which should be considered for managing
construction innovation. The application of the approach to the case of a
Swiss contractor revealed dependency on client and location, procurement
form, innovation acceptance of the client and regulation degree as
significant variables of the external environment. Service offer,
knowledge strength, cooperative behaviour, financial strength and time
needs were identified as critical variables of the internal environment.
The implications are that the management of construction firms should
advocate innovative ideas explicitly, make conscious strategic decisions
about the direction of the firm's innovation activity and provide
methodical and hierarchical support during the innovation process.
Establishing internal innovation brokers and using portfolio-based project
checkpoints are supportive measures in this regard.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 567-578
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Innovation management, context variables, construction firm,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600790629
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:567-578
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Song
Author-X-Name-First: Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Song
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Craig Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: Linkage measures of the construction sector using the hypothetical extraction method
Abstract:
The hypothetical extraction method (HEM) is used to extract a sector
hypothetically from an economic system and examine the influence of this
extraction on other sectors in the economy. Linkage measures based on the
HEM become increasingly prominent. However, little construction linkage
research applies the HEM. Using the recently published Organisation for
Economic Co-operation and Development input-output database at constant
prices, this research applies the HEM to the construction sector in order
to explore the role of this sector in national economies and the
quantitative interdependence between the construction sector and the
remaining sectors. The output differences before and after the
hypothetical extraction reflect the linkages of the construction sector.
Empirical results show a declining trend of the total, backward and
forward linkages, which confirms the decreasing role of the construction
sector with economic maturity over the examined period from a new angle.
Analytical results reveal that the unique nature of the construction
sector and multifold external factors are the main reasons for the linkage
difference between countries. Moreover, hypothesis-testing results
consider statistically that the extraction structures employed in this
research are appropriate to analyse the linkages of the construction
sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 579-589
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Input-output analysis, hypothetical extraction method, construction sector, linkage,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435358
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435358
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:579-589
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Khalied Hyari
Author-X-Name-First: Khalied
Author-X-Name-Last: Hyari
Author-Name: Khaled El-Rayes
Author-X-Name-First: Khaled
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Rayes
Title: Field experiments to evaluate lighting performance in nighttime highway construction
Abstract:
The utilisation of nighttime highway construction has increased in recent
years in order to minimise daytime construction-related service
disruptions and traffic congestion. In this type of nighttime
construction, lighting arrangements need to be properly designed and
implemented in order to enhance safety and productivity on site, and
ensure full compliance with the required lighting specifications. A number
of field experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of various
lighting arrangements in three typical highway construction zones, namely:
activity area, transition and termination areas and flagger stations. In
each of these zones, a number of practical lighting arrangements were
found to be capable of satisfying all the lighting design criteria
required by various Departments of Transportation. The experimental
results also confirm that the set-up of lighting equipment on site has a
significant impact on lighting performance, and therefore lighting
arrangements should be carefully designed and executed on nighttime
highway construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 591-601
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Highway construction, workspace, nighttime construction, computer models, light,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601669
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601669
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:591-601
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. Soetanto
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Soetanto
Author-Name: A. R. J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: A. R. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: J. Glass
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Author-Name: A. D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: A. D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Title: Towards an explicit design decision process: the case of the structural frame
Abstract:
Decisions made during the briefing and conceptual design stages of a
building project are critical to its success. One of the earliest major
decisions which can have a significant effect on downstream events and
results is the selection of the structural frame. Given its importance to
the efficacy of the finished building, the structural frame selection
process should arguably be objective and transparent, the final decision
being based on the frame's ability to perform against a range of criteria
appropriate to the scheme in question. However, the heuristics
underpinning such decisions tend not to be explicit and thus, are
difficult for inexperienced clients to understand. This article reports on
research which examined the criteria used by clients, structural
engineers, architects and main contractors when selecting structural
frames. These were established via a postal questionnaire survey of a
stratified sample of design professionals, contractors and client
organizations. The analysis reveals marked differences in the perceived
importance of the criteria identified amongst the respondents, which may
result in conflicts between design and construction advisers and their
clients should they be made explicit in the design process. Nevertheless,
it is important that such differences are revealed within the
decision-making process if more appropriate design decisions are to be
made in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-614
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Conflict, criteria, design, project team, structural frame,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600568173
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600568173
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:603-614
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: When is construction partnering likely to happen? An empirical examination of the role of institutional norms
Abstract:
Despite the vast interest and enthusiasm on the benefits of construction
partnering, no apparent trend exists to show that it has become the
dominant choice of procurement method across construction industries
internationally. Rather, the implementation of construction partnering has
been patchy, with varying degrees of success and, in many instances, its
adoption is more an exception than the norm. This study argues and sets
out to test the proposition that despite the huge advocacy for the use of
partnering, its slow uptake and, more importantly, the inconsistent
results it yields are due to the lack of systematic investigation into the
institutional determinants of partnering. Based on data collected from 526
firms covering various industry disciplines, results show that firms' use
of partnering is selective and that this selectiveness is significantly
determined by the industry's level of institutional norms and not by the
conventional notion that partnering increases a firm's profitability or
efficiency. Findings further indicate that firms that perceive there are
strong industry norms for partnering are twice as likely to use partnering
as firms that do not have such perception. By empirically examining the
institutional conditions under which partnering is more likely to occur,
this study sheds some light on why the implementation of partnering
remains at a conservative rate and suggests avenues for future research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 615-624
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction partnering, institutional norms, procurement methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500521256
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500521256
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:615-624
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kevin Duncan
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Duncan
Author-Name: Peter Philips
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Philips
Author-Name: Mark Prus
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Prus
Title: Prevailing wage legislation and public school construction efficiency: a stochastic frontier approach
Abstract:
Stochastic frontier regression is used to examine the effect of
introducing prevailing wage legislation on public school construction
efficiency in British Columbia. Prior to the legislation, public school
projects were from 16% to 19% smaller, in terms of square feet, than
comparable private structures. However, likelihood ratio tests
consistently indicate that the coefficients measuring the effect of the
policy on the size differential between covered and uncovered projects are
not statistically different from zero. These results suggest that
construction wage requirements did not alter input utilisation in a way
that significantly affected construction output. Average inefficiency for
school construction in British Columbia over the period of the study is
12.1%.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-634
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Prevailing wage laws, regression analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601719
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601719
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:625-634
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. Navon
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Navon
Author-Name: O. Berkovich
Author-X-Name-First: O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Berkovich
Title: An automated model for materials management and control
Abstract:
Current, manual, materials management and control procedures are
unsatisfactory: they are labour intensive, inaccurate and error prone. The
result is waste and surplus of materials, delays, decrease in productivity
and lack of up-to-date, real-time information regarding the status of
purchase orders (PO), the levels of inventory, the actual vs. planned
usage of materials, and others. The purpose of the present work was to
develop an automated model, which alleviates some of these problems. Prior
to developing the model, a field survey was conducted to learn, at first
hand, what the typical problems with materials management and control are.
The model initiates materials purchasing, follows up the status of PO,
records materials data as they arrive to the site and their movement
around the site, makes recommendations, generates reports and issues
warnings. The model was implemented, tested and evaluated in an ongoing
building construction project. The onsite experiments confirmed that
automated materials management and control are feasible, resulting in real
benefits, such as time savings, and availability of up-to-date and
accurate information regarding stocks of materials on site.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-646
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Automation, data collection, feedback control, control methods, materials management, monitoring,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435671
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435671
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:635-646
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Hui-Yu Chou
Author-X-Name-First: Hui-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chou
Author-Name: Ming-Teh Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ming-Teh
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Characterizing the corporate governance of UK listed construction companies
Abstract:
In response to the emergence of scandals involving many high-profile
companies during the 1990s, corporate governance is considered as an area
requiring immediate reform. The government of the United Kingdom has
conducted a series of reviews on corporate governance and incorporated the
recommendations of these reports into regulatory codes. Compliance with
these codes can be considered to indicate the implementation of best
corporate practice. A question of interest is how UK construction
companies perform in corporate governance. The answer can be revealed by
comparing construction companies with the top 50 companies listed in the
UK, based on the provisions of corporate governance codes. Construction
companies are found to (1) disclose less corporate governance information;
(2) display lower levels of structural board independence in terms of
separate roles of chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) and
percentage of independent directors; (3) rely less on external consultant
advice in assisting the decision making of three board committees.
Research thus should be conducted on whether these disparities cause
adverse effects on construction company performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 647-656
Issue: 6
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Corporate governance, best practice, performance, construction companies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500529424
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500529424
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:6:p:647-656
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard De Valence
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: De Valence
Title: Guest Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 661-668
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600906779
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600906779
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:661-668
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patricia Hillebrandt
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Hillebrandt
Title: Letter to the Editor
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 669-670
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500249429
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500249429
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:669-670
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Erik Dietzenbacher
Author-X-Name-First: Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Dietzenbacher
Author-Name: Alex Hoen
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoen
Title: Coefficient stability and predictability in input-output models: a comparative analysis for the Netherlands
Abstract:
Following the work of Bon, this article compares the stability of two
types of input-output models. These are, the Leontief (or demand-driven)
model and the Ghosh (or supply-driven) model. The empirical results are
based on a times series of annual input-output tables for the Netherlands,
covering the period 1948-84. Three types of analysis are carried out. The
first to evaluate the stability of the models' underlying coefficients
over time. The second to investigate the forecasting behaviour when there
is perfect foresight with respect to the models' exogenous variables. The
third to examine the predictability of the models, absent of perfect
foresight.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 671-680
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Stability, forecasting behaviour, input-output models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600567985
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600567985
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:671-680
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Philip Mccann
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Mccann
Title: On the supply-side determinants of regional growth
Abstract:
The major developments in thought regarding regional economic growth and
development are traced over the last two decades. The supply-side
micro-foundations of regional growth have come under scrutiny in a manner
which has previously not been evident. In particular, an examination of
the elements of industrial clustering, regional industrial structure, and
place characteristics which may promote innovation, have become a central
focus of modern regional growth analysis. The micro-foundations of these
arguments are analysed, and the links between innovation and clustering
explored within a transactions-costs framework. This allows us to point to
areas in which our understanding has grown over recent years, and to
identify further areas of analysis which are required.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 681-693
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Economic theory, urban development, urban planning, markets, transaction cost economics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500514756
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500514756
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:681-693
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Shipworth
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Shipworth
Title: Qualitative modelling of sustainable energy scenarios: an extension of the Bon qualitative input-output model
Abstract:
Climate change is one of the major challenges facing economic systems at
the start of the 21st century. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions will
require both restructuring the energy supply system (production) and
addressing the efficiency and sufficiency of the social uses of energy
(consumption). The energy production system is a complicated supply
network of interlinked sectors with 'knock-on' effects throughout the
economy. End use energy consumption is governed by complex sets of
interdependent cultural, social, psychological and economic variables
driven by shifts in consumer preference and technological development
trajectories. To date, few models have been developed for exploring
alternative joint energy production-consumption systems. The aim of this
work is to propose one such model. This is achieved in a methodologically
coherent manner through integration of qualitative input-output models of
production, with Bayesian belief network models of consumption, at point
of final demand. The resulting integrated framework can be applied either
(relatively) quickly and qualitatively to explore alternative energy
scenarios, or as a fully developed quantitative model to derive or assess
specific energy policy options. The qualitative applications are explored
here.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-703
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Energy policy, input-output analysis, Bayesian belief networks, carbon management, sustainable consumption and production,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658917
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658917
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:695-703
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Title: The contribution of Ranko Bon to the debate on sustainable construction
Abstract:
Ranko Bon is best-known for his studies of building economics. Less known
is his contribution to the debate on sustainable construction, which shows
unique features, particularly if compared to those of most recent related
studies. By building upon on the initial systems approach to the problem
of 'the limits to growth' and its macro- and micro-economic implications,
Bon proposes a unique methodological contribution to such a problem. This
paper outlines the historical debate about sustainability, its relation
with construction and finally Bon's personal contribution in this regard.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 705-709
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Economic measures, sustainable building, sustainable construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500127203
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500127203
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:705-709
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Title: Does volume follow share? The case of the Danish construction industry
Abstract:
In 1992, Ranko Bon argued that in highly developed countries the
relatively declining economic importance of the construction industry is
followed by the absolute decline of its output. The shrinking volume has
implications with production capacity that, at a certain point of economic
maturity, tends to be added at a slower rate than in the past. By using
statistical data of the Danish construction industry, this study attempts
to verify Bon's proposition. The absolute decline of housing investments
partially supports such a proposition. What is more, since the peak of the
mid-1970s, the addition rate to the capacity of the Danish economy has
slowed down.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-715
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction industry, Denmark, construction investments, construction output,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500204606
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500204606
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:711-715
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Les Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Les
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Author-Name: Jorge Lopes
Author-X-Name-First: Jorge
Author-X-Name-Last: Lopes
Title: The construction sector and economic development: the 'Bon curve'
Abstract:
The complexities of the relationship between a country's level of
construction activity and its stage of economic development are
considerable. Studies over the last three decades, based on macroeconomic
analysis, have attempted to model the relationship but have usually been
hampered by problems of data quality and availability. Nevertheless,
paradigms have emerged (usually based on Keynesian philosophy), which are
concerned with the dynamics of construction activity as an agent in the
promotion of economic growth in economies at different stages of
development. One such is the 'Bon curve'. An examination of the data
issues of attempting to assess the validity of the proposition is made and
then the role of the construction sector in highly developed economies is
considered.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 717-723
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: 'Bon curve', construction activity, economic development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435218
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435218
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:717-723
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Irem Dikmen
Author-X-Name-First: Irem
Author-X-Name-Last: Dikmen
Author-Name: M. Talat Birgonul
Author-X-Name-First: M. Talat
Author-X-Name-Last: Birgonul
Title: A review of international construction research: Ranko Bon's contribution
Abstract:
Literature on international construction is rich in adopting conceptual
frameworks to investigate levels of international competitiveness and
making inter-country comparisons about sources of national competitive
advantage. However, there are limited studies that result from
collaborative work between different country researchers about development
of custom frameworks to investigate complexities of international
construction business, experience-based generic libraries applicable to
international construction projects and forecasting models. Ranko Bon's
contribution to the international construction literature is invaluable as
he has dealt with broad trends and dominant patterns of change in the
global construction market by referring to judgments of experts from all
over the world and helped dissemination of this practical information
which may be used by policy makers and construction professionals seeking
jobs in the global market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 725-733
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: International construction, international construction research, global construction market,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601909
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601909
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:725-733
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Hawk
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Hawk
Title: Conditions of Success: a platform for international construction development
Abstract:
'Conditions of Success' (COS) was organised to study the
internationalisation of the construction industry in 1989. At that time
few companies, and even fewer researchers, were interested in
international construction endeavours. The purpose of the study was to
collect information on activities of the 1980s in order to project who
might be successful and under what conditions would they be successful in
the next century. Extensive interviews were conducted with 60
participating firms from seven countries. While this group has now been
reduced to about 20 via mergers and acquisitions they have demonstrated
the value of several of the recommendations from the study. Critical to
the study was an Executive Symposium held in Stockholm in 1991 where
executives presented their view of the future and how best to prepare for
it. Professor Ranko Bon, of Reading University, played a pivotal role in
this special Symposium, as chair of the diverse interests and adviser to
organising the results. Ten major recommendations are outlined in the
paper. A critical distinction emerged from the study, which has grown in
theoretical importance since 1991. It is between the North American,
primarily Harvard-centric, strategic model for internationalisation and
the relationship-building approach of Asia (initially Japanese and now
Chinese). The Asian approach is closer to that of Europe and gaining in
effectiveness and prominence over that of North America.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 735-742
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Internationalisation, conditions, success, interdependence, value creation, construction activities, relationship building,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658966
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658966
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:735-742
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sivaguru Ganesan
Author-X-Name-First: Sivaguru
Author-X-Name-Last: Ganesan
Author-Name: John Kelsey
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Kelsey
Title: Technology transfer: international collaboration in Sri Lanka
Abstract:
The real tests for technology transfer are whether such transfers have
contributed significantly to the vibrant development of the recipient
industry. Technology transfer (TT) process that is knowledge driven
demands a recipient industry with adequate capacity for absorbing new
knowledge. International joint ventures and subcontracts employed in
building material and construction can be serious vehicles of TT provided
they contribute to providing higher quality inputs into the wider
industry. These issues are examined through a survey of construction
subcontracts during the period 1985-2002. The respondents indicated that
moderately favourable conditions for TT existed in the completed projects.
Nonetheless, the paper argues that negligible real productivity changes in
construction in Sri Lanka in the recent decade point to stagnation in
growth in local absorptive capacity. China in contrast has placed a
balanced emphasis on upgrading building materials and equipment, design
and construction, and built up an impressive absorptive capacity, with
modernisation of the entire industry in prospect. The paper suggests
advance planning for TT in foreign funded projects to ensure greater
participation of local firms, together with a balanced focus on efficient
and timely execution of projects, the profitability of participants, and
realisation of TT goals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 743-753
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction, technology transfer, absorptive capacity, modernisation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600704703
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600704703
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:743-753
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Philip Steadman
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Steadman
Title: Allometry and built form: revisiting Ranko Bon's work with the Harvard Philomorphs
Abstract:
Ranko Bon's Master's thesis at Harvard was devoted to the phenomenon of
allometry in the forms of buildings. The concept of allometry comes from
biology, and refers to changes in the forms of organisms as they alter in
size. For example the ratio of volume to surface exposed to the air
(including the lungs) is of great functional importance to animals, and
tends to remain constant as they get larger. Bon studied allometry in
residential buildings, and showed that both the ratio of surface to volume
and the ratio of circulation length to floor area were preserved over a
wide range of building sizes. Bon's work is revisited from a theoretical
point of view, using a new method for representing large numbers of
theoretical but realistic built forms, all derived from a single
'archetypal building'. By choosing default dimensions typical of
dwellings, Bon's original results can be reproduced. By varying these
dimensions of plan depth, numbers of storeys and widths of courts or
light-wells, it is possible to show what precise kinds of allometric
relationships are likely to be found in other types of day-lit buildings
besides dwellings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 755-765
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Allometry, built form, archetypal building, surface area, volume, circulation length, floor area,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601966
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601966
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:755-765
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard De Valence
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: De Valence
Title: Building as an economic process: the Austrian approach revisited
Abstract:
Bon's book Building as an Economic Process: An Introduction to Building
Economics was an important step in the development of the economic theory
of the built environment. The book's aim was to establish theoretical
foundations for building economics, using the perspective of Austrian
economics. The objective of this review is to assess the significance and
impact of the book, and how successful Bon was in achieving his stated
purpose. Each of the major topics in the book is discussed, with the
Austrian approach as used by Bon on capital theory, the building process,
and business and building cycles assessed. Bon proposed a significant
research programme based on these ideas. The impact of the ideas is
discussed before progress on the research programme is reviewed. The
conclusion attempts to bring out the significance of the book's
contribution.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 767-771
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Building economics, Austrian economics, building process, capital theory, Ranko Bon,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601859
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601859
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:767-771
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Xinling Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Xinling
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: Construction price formation: full-cost pricing or neoclassical microeconomic theory?
Abstract:
Neo-classical microeconomic theory has been suggested to offer (1) an
appropriate analytical tool for construction price determination while, at
the same time, (2) full-cost pricing is most commonly accepted pricing
policy of construction firms. Paradoxically, however, both are mutually
exclusive theories. Only one, if any, can be correct. This paper examines
both (1) and (2) by analysis of the evidence available in literature and
concludes in favour of (1). It is only in disequilibrium, however, that
the differences in behaviour can be clearly observed. In equilibrium, the
difference between the two theories from a practical point of view is not
very substantial. In addition, the endemic nature of uncertainty in the
industry in general makes the task of estimating costs and prices
difficult in practice. Therefore, although neoclassical microeconomic
theory provides a useful means of analysis, it offers little for the
practice of pricing, which is much more closely related to the marketing
discipline than economics.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 773-783
Issue: 7
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction, contracts, pricing, theory, policy, costs, prices, neo-classical microeconomics, marketing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500434849
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500434849
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:7:p:773-783
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Title: Bidding models: testing the stationarity assumption
Abstract:
With notably few exceptions, bidding models contain probability
distributions with parameters that are assumed to be fixed, or stationary,
over time. Some methods of testing the tenability of this assumption are
examined and applied to eight datasets. Of particular interest is the
statistical significance of two types of periodicity: (1) that bidders
gradually reduce their bids prior to winning a contract; and (2) that
bidders have periods in which they are more competitive and periods in
which they are less competitive. To test (1), McCaffer and Pettitt's
(1976) cusum method is used and shown to have a limited interpretation in
this context. McCaffer's 'deficit' statistic is then used in conjunction
with a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and shows (1) to be untenable
for the samples involved. To test (2), the deficit statistic is again used
with an ANOVA to examine all possible sub-series of bids.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 791-803
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Bidding, behaviour, parameters, cusum method, deficit statistic,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600680432
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600680432
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:791-803
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Michael Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Author-Name: Roger Hosein
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosein
Title: An estimation of the size of the hidden labour force in construction in Trinidad and Tobago
Abstract:
In every country there is a hidden economy operating alongside the formal
economy. The published national statistics record only the formal economy.
These statistics indicate that the construction industry is an important
source of both wealth creation and employment despite the fact that they
fail to take account of three important aspects of the sector. These are
that the broadly defined construction sector is much larger than the
construction industry, what is known as the 'informal' sector, and the
work done by direct labour organisations. In the absence of actual
measures of the size of these aspects, an indirect technique has been used
to provide an estimate of their scale. These estimates are used to obtain
an overview of their possible impact on the actual role of the sector in
terms of output and employment in the economy. The preliminary estimates
suggest the overall contribution of construction to the economy of
Trinidad and Tobago represents some three times the official Figure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 805-815
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Formal, informal, direct labour, employment, construction sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658594
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658594
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:805-815
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. B. Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: S. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Organisational culture profiles of construction enterprises in China
Abstract:
The vast economic growth in China in the past decade has brought forth
opportunities for the development of its construction industry. However,
the construction industry in China has been criticised for poor
performance and low effectiveness in terms of quality and profitability in
the face of challenges and uncertainties resulting from the fast changing
economic environment. Given that organisational culture plays a
significant role in work performance and effectiveness, the apparently low
effectiveness of the construction industry may be related to the culture
of the contractors' organisations. The culture-effectiveness (C-E)
relationship has received increased attention in organisational research
and the aim of the study is to develop a culture-effectiveness model of
the contractors' motivated behaviour towards performance. Results of
cluster analysis of the culture profiles of Chinese construction
enterprises show that hierarchy and clan cultures are dominant and that
culture profiles of Chinese contractors may vary in different geographical
regions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 817-828
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Behaviours, motivation, organisational culture, performance effectiveness, schemas,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600704604
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600704604
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:817-828
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susan Bogus
Author-X-Name-First: Susan
Author-X-Name-Last: Bogus
Author-Name: Keith Molenaar
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Molenaar
Author-Name: James Diekmann
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Diekmann
Title: Strategies for overlapping dependent design activities
Abstract:
Overlapping activities that are traditionally performed in a sequential
manner can significantly reduce project delivery times. Overlapping,
however, should be approached in a systematic manner to reduce the costs
and risks. Information gathered from sector-based case studies and from
the manufacturing domain suggest a formalised framework for identifying
overlapping opportunities and strategies can be successfully implemented
for infrastructure projects. This framework considers activity
characteristics, such as evolution of upstream information and sensitivity
of downstream activities to changes in upstream information, to identify
appropriate overlapping strategies. Overlapping strategies, such as early
freezing of design criteria, overdesign, and early release of preliminary
information, are selected based on activity characteristics. These
strategies operate either by speeding up the evolution of upstream
information or by reducing the sensitivity of downstream activities. By
aligning overlapping strategies with activity characteristics, project
managers can make better decisions on when and how much to overlap
sequential activities to reduce overall project delivery time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 829-837
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Concurrent engineering, project management, decision making,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658529
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658529
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:829-837
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. R. Grosskopf
Author-X-Name-First: K. R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Grosskopf
Author-Name: Charles Kibert
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Kibert
Title: Economic incentive framework for sustainable energy use in US residential construction
Abstract:
Searching for new ways to be competitive in an increasingly deregulated
market, energy suppliers worldwide have turned to energy conservation
measures (ECMs) to avoid costly generation expansion, to build
relationships with consumers and to comply with new international
emissions standards. To maximise the cost effectiveness of an energy
conservation programme, a framework is presented to assess consumer
'willingness-to-pay' for ECMs and avoided supply costs. The goal of this
framework is to provide a methodology to optimise supplier incentives that
will maximise consumer adoption and minimise energy production costs. A
survey of 400 US homebuyers found that nearly 90% would invest in ECMs.
Yet for every two years required to 'payback' the initial investment,
consumer willingness-to-pay declines 25%. A case study of a medium-size US
utility found that most ECMs contribute more to profitable base load
reduction than to costly peak load reduction, meaning utility loss in
revenue often exceeds avoided supply costs. However, the average housing
unit conserving 7,718kWh/yr could save US$216.10 per year, in addition to
electricity costs, if the cost of avoided emissions abatement were
credited back to the consumer. Based on these savings, expected ECM
adoption could eliminate 1.65×108 kWh of energy use and 107,197 tons
of CO2 emissions for every 20,000 single family homes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-846
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Energy conservation, incentives, residential, USA,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601818
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601818
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:839-846
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahdi Mattar
Author-X-Name-First: Mahdi
Author-X-Name-Last: Mattar
Author-Name: Charles Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Title: Valuing large engineering projects under uncertainty: private risk effects and real options
Abstract:
In all large engineering projects, valuation constitutes an important
step during the initial stage as each stakeholder assesses the prospect of
his or her investment. The complexity of valuation increases dramatically
in the face of uncertainty especially when the risks are dynamic and
stochastic in nature. The usual classification in finance theory divides
risks into either market or unique. In this research, a new notion of
private risk is introduced. A private risk may either be correlated with
the market or be unique, but in addition it represents a substantial
portion of an investor's wealth and is not tradable due to agency costs or
other strategic reasons. The principles of pricing would differ according
to the treatment of these different types of risks. Methods that are
currently in vogue for pricing private risks are first evaluated, followed
by a study of the effect of private risks in real option problems. Through
a classic oil and gas exploration and development example, it is
demonstrated that the methods chosen for pricing private risks can lead to
decisively different real option values, exercise strategies and
development policies. Effectively, the difference in real option values
can be interpreted as a form of private risk premium.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 847-860
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Decision analysis, private risk, real option, risk, valuation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658818
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658818
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:847-860
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Y. P. Poh
Author-X-Name-First: Y. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Poh
Author-Name: J. H. M. Tah
Author-X-Name-First: J. H. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tah
Title: Integrated duration-cost influence network for modelling risk impacts on construction tasks
Abstract:
Quantitative risk analysis is usually ignored in construction risk
management, although numerous techniques are available. One of the
shortcomings of conventional quantitative risk analysis techniques is that
they can only analyse either duration or cost risks. In view of this, an
integrated duration-cost influence network that systematically represents
the interdependencies among the duration and cost parameters of a
construction task has been developed, and mathematical equations have been
formulated to represent the dependencies. The generic structure of the
influence network can be used for explicitly modelling risk impacts
affecting any construction task, and the nature of risks can be
investigated in the risk modelling process. In addition, risk impacts
modelled can potentially be propagated through the influence network for
quantifying the risk-adjusted task duration and cost simultaneously. Thus,
the influence network provides the basis for performing integrated
duration-cost risk modelling and simulation in future research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 861-868
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Quantitative risk analysis, integrated duration-cost influence network, risk factors, risk modelling, risk propagation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658891
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658891
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:861-868
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Michael Harel
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Harel
Title: An economic game theory model of subcontractor resource allocation behaviour
Abstract:
Periodic review and adjustment of resource allocations to construction
projects is critical for subcontractors to maintain profitability under
traditional unit price or lump sum contracts. Project managers strive to
control subcontractors in an effort to meet budgets and schedules;
subcontractors often work on multiple projects simultaneously and strive
independently to allocate resources to those projects where they perceive
that they will bring maximum utility. An economic game theory model is
proposed as a foundation for understanding the behaviour of subcontractors
in allocating resources to projects. The model describes the influence of
the degree of reliability of the planned schedule on subcontractors' and
project managers' behaviours under traditional unit price contracting.
Unreliable plans undermine efforts to promote cooperative behaviour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 869-881
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Decision making, game theory, lean construction, partnering, resource allocation, subcontracting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600631856
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600631856
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:869-881
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Birgit Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani Birgit
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Richard Neale
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Neale
Title: Balancing employee needs, project requirements and organisational priorities in team deployment
Abstract:
The 'people and performance' model asserts that performance is a sum of
employee ability, motivation and opportunity (AMO). Despite extensive
evidence of this people-performance link within manufacturing and many
service sectors, studies within the construction industry are limited.
Thus, a recent research project set out to explore the team deployment
strategies of a large construction company with the view of establishing
how a balance could be achieved between organisational strategic
priorities, operational project requirements and individual employee needs
and preferences. The findings suggested that project priorities often took
precedence over the delivery of the strategic intentions of the
organisation in meeting employees' individual needs. This approach is not
sustainable in the long term because of the negative implications that
such a policy had in relation to employee stress and staff turnover. It is
suggested that a resourcing structure that takes into account the multiple
facets of AMO may provide a more effective approach for balancing
organisational strategic priorities, operational project requirements and
individual employee needs and preferences more appropriately in the
future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 883-895
Issue: 8
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Human resource management, organisational culture, teams, motivation, case study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600647191
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:8:p:883-895
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I-Tung Yang
Author-X-Name-First: I-Tung
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: Using Gaussian copula to simulate repetitive projects
Abstract:
An important requirement for simulating repetitive projects is to treat
correlations inherent in the repetition of same crews working at various
locations. To attain the requirement, this study develops a new Monte
Carlo simulation model implementing a Gaussian copula in conjunction with
the inverse-transform method to generate correlated duration samples in
repetitive projects that have pre-specified marginal distributions and
pairwise rank correlations. The proposed model is equipped with an
automatic approximation procedure to adjust an infeasible correlation
matrix, if necessary. The proposed model is statistically verified through
a real-life residential apartment project. The simulation results are
compared to two conventional analyses (PERT and simulation without
correlation) to show the aggregated impact of correlations. The proposed
model contributes to the state-of-the-art in handling non-linear
dependencies among activity durations that may have non-normal
distributions. Moreover, it is flexible in the ways of correlation
assessments (qualitative or quantitative), the magnitudes of correlations
(weak to strong), and the types of marginal distributions (symmetrical or
skewed).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 901-909
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Copula, simulation, stochastic estimation, risk management, repetitive project,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600658784
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600658784
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:901-909
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Author-Name: Steve Mcfallan
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcfallan
Title: Exploring the drivers of firm-level innovation in the construction industry
Abstract:
A survey of 335 businesses in the Australian road industry has been
carried out to ascertain those factors that make firms innovate.
'Innovative' is measured by adoption rates of advanced technologies and
practices, and the range of innovation drivers reviewed encompasses
business strategy and environment. The findings indicate that business
strategies are more important than business conditions, and that the
following three strategies are significant in differentiating between
firms with high and low adoption rates: (1) hiring new graduates; (2)
introducing new technologies; and (3) enhancing technical capabilities.
The findings also highlight the importance of undertaking R&D and
encouraging employee ideas for improvement. The public policy implications
are that the quality of university graduates should be protected and
advanced, as should technical skills within public sector client agencies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 911-920
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Innovation, technology adoption, business practices, business conditions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799034
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600799034
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:911-920
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ina Drejer
Author-X-Name-First: Ina
Author-X-Name-Last: Drejer
Author-Name: Anker Lund Vinding
Author-X-Name-First: Anker Lund
Author-X-Name-Last: Vinding
Title: Organisation, 'anchoring' of knowledge, and innovative activity in construction
Abstract:
The construction industry is characterised by the widespread use of
project organisation. It has been suggested that the relatively low level
of innovative activity in the industry can be explained by the temporary
nature of firm boundary-crossing projects. Survey data from the Danish
construction industry is used to investigate the importance of learning
and 'anchoring' of project-specific knowledge at the firm level for
participation in innovative activities. The data cover both the overall
Danish construction industry and a specific region, North Jutland, which
has a relatively high specialisation of construction workers. Latent class
and regression analyses reveal that firms that make extensive use of
partnering, together with internal product and process evaluation and
knowledge diffusion (labelled 'knowledge-anchoring mechanisms'), are more
likely to participate in innovative activities than firms which make less
use of these mechanisms. This indicates that construction firms are able
to compensate for the problems that temporary interorganisational projects
may cause in relation to continuous learning at the firm level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 921-931
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Project organisation, partnering, innovative activity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799166
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:921-931
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Stoy
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Stoy
Author-Name: Wolfdietrich Kalusche
Author-X-Name-First: Wolfdietrich
Author-X-Name-Last: Kalusche
Title: The determination of occupancy costs during early project phases
Abstract:
In addition to the earnings, costs determine the commercial success of
real estate investments. The discussion in the German-speaking region
focuses on occupancy costs and their planning. When planning, the
occupancy costs must be determined early, continually monitored, and
controlled if necessary. A process for determining occupancy costs, the
construction element process, is presented and tested using an actual
property. The test results deviate by only approximately 8% from the
occupancy costs actually incurred. The process demonstrates its
suitability for the early determination of occupancy costs using only a
few pieces of data on the property. However, it does require occupancy
cost indicators. Also, the significant drivers of these indictors must be
known in order to select the appropriate indicator. For this reason,
future work on occupancy costs must not only collect additional data, but
the data must also be analysed with regard to the cost drivers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 933-944
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Occupancy costs, cost planning, construction element process, building planning, Germany,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799307
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600799307
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Whitla
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Whitla
Author-Name: Peter Walters
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Walters
Author-Name: Howard Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Howard
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Title: The use of global strategies by British construction firms
Abstract:
A two-stage qualitative case study, and Yip's conceptual framework, are
used to examine the extent to which British construction firms have
adopted 'global' strategies. In the first stage industry experts provided
evidence on the forces driving global strategy. In the second stage
executives from eight internationally active firms described how they have
responded to those forces. Results indicate that the forces driving
globalisation, at least for traditional contracting activities, are not
strong. Evidence shows that most firms operating internationally organise
'multi-locally' and make little use of globally integrated strategies.
However, firms that have moved into 'higher value-added' construction
activities have a greater propensity to integrate some aspects of their
strategy on a global basis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 945-954
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Globalisation, strategy, international competition, multinational companies, transnationals,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799679
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:945-954
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hyung Jin Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Hyung Jin
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Kenneth Reinschmidt
Author-X-Name-First: Kenneth
Author-X-Name-Last: Reinschmidt
Title: A dynamic competition model for construction contractors
Abstract:
In construction, the issue of competition has been studied focusing on
competitive bidding. The objective of most competitive bidding models is
to find the optimum mark-up to maximise the expected profit from a single
firm's perspective. However, a firm's success depends on its long-term
interactions with the market and its competitors. To better understand
competition in the market, there is a need to analyse competition from a
dynamic market perspective. Building on previous models and relevant
competition studies, a dynamic simulation model has been developed to
provide an analytical framework for understanding dynamic competition. In
this model, similar firms are equally exposed to demand uncertainties.
Each applies its own policy, responding to market changes and to
competitors' actions to optimise its market position. The firms' responses
and their dynamic feedback are simulated and analysed. The results show
how difficult it is for any firm to acquire a long-term competitive
advantage by means of bidding/marketing strategies—just as it is in
the real world of price-competitive contracting. Some considerations are
presented for a single firm to develop a competitive strategy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 955-965
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Competitive bidding, dynamic competition, interaction and feedback, market changes and timing, competitive factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799729
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:955-965
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sung Kin Pun
Author-X-Name-First: Sung Kin
Author-X-Name-Last: Pun
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Craig Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: Case study of demolition costs of residential buildings
Abstract:
Building demolition is one of the most common activities in the
construction industry. Several demolition techniques are commonly used,
including mechanical demolition, deconstruction and hybrid demolition.
Although deconstruction has been advocated for its environmentally
friendly approaches, the cost comparison of a demolition project under
different techniques is rarely researched. In this paper, the cost of a
demolition project is broken down to input and output costs, which are
further broken down to more countable sections. Through an empirical study
in Victoria, Australia, project costs of mechanical demolition, hybrid
demolition and deconstruction are investigated. It is found that
deconstruction has the greatest profitability among the three techniques.
Hybrid demolition, which is the actual technique adopted by the
contractor, has a slightly lower profit, and mechanical demolition is the
most expensive. Although deconstruction has the best overall economical
performance, the small extra gain comes with increased complexity and risk
that deters demolition contractors from its attempt. It is found in the
paper that an optimized demolition project strategy exists between hybrid
demolition and deconstruction with the greatest profitability among
various building demolition techniques.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 967-976
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Australia, recycling, project appraisal, demolition, cost modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500512024
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:9:p:967-976
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Author-Name: Chandrashekhar Iyer
Author-X-Name-First: Chandrashekhar
Author-X-Name-Last: Iyer
Title: What attributes should a project coordinator possess?
Abstract:
Construction projects are increasingly multidisciplinary and the role of
a project coordinator has become critical for success. A clear
differentiation is drawn between the roles of a project manager and a
project coordinator, and the attributes required in a successful project
coordinator are defined. A total of 24 such attributes were identified
through a survey of available literature and personal interviews with top
construction professionals based in India. A ranking has also been
assigned to these attributes on the basis of a questionnaire survey.
Statistical analyses of responses indicated a distinct difference between
the attributes possessed by the project coordinators in projects that were
considered successful, and those that were considered failures. Project
coordinators of successful projects were found to excel in certain
important attributes such as relationship with client, consultant and
contractor; timeliness; technical knowledge of the subject; belief in team
playing spirit; and coordination for achieving quality compared to their
counterparts in projects which were regarded as failures. Interestingly,
the required attributes remained the same for project coordinators whether
they worked for the contracting agency or the owner's organisation. Factor
analysis was used to group the 24 attributes into three major skills
categories: team building skills; contract implementation skills; and
project organisation skills. These findings will be useful to
practitioners during the recruitment of project coordinators.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 977-988
Issue: 9
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Project coordinator, project manager, coordination, questionnaire,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600781826
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600781826
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fanie Buys
Author-X-Name-First: Fanie
Author-X-Name-Last: Buys
Author-Name: Raymond Nkado
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Nkado
Title: A survey of maintenance management systems in South African tertiary educational institutions
Abstract:
The implementation of an effective maintenance management system is vital
if the maintenance of assets of any organisation or institution is to be
managed effectively. A survey was undertaken among tertiary educational
institutions in South Africa to identify a list of best practice criteria
and to prioritise these in order of importance. The study evaluated the
performance of the existing maintenance management systems used by
tertiary educational institutions to determine whether there is a need to
improve current maintenance management systems. Results showed that
existing performance is far below best practice standards and that the use
of computerised maintenance management systems is very limited. This led
to the development of a model to assist maintenance managers at tertiary
educational institutions to evaluate and improve their existing approaches
to maintenance management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 997-1005
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Maintenance management, modelling, South Africa, universities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600851009
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600851009
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:10:p:997-1005
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stuart Carmichael
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Carmichael
Author-Name: Maria Murray
Author-X-Name-First: Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Murray
Title: Record keeping for contemporaneous delay analysis: a model for effective event management
Abstract:
Increasingly sophisticated computer software is being utilized to support
detailed critical path method (CPM) analysis for resolving delay and
disruption claims. The accurate determination of entitlement is however
still dependent on the quality of programme and progress information
provided by all parties. A comparative analysis of record-keeping methods
in the UK and the US reveals that there is less rigour to this practice in
the UK, where parties are not required by the contract to provide such
records. In most forms of US government construction contract the
contractor is required to produce a schedule using CPM software and to
regularly update this to reflect project progress and changes. Recent
recommended best practice in the UK also stipulates that the contractor
should keep reliable and accurate progress and programme records to assist
contemporaneous assessment of the cause and effect of project changes.
While not contractually imperative, a clear method of managing information
is important in UK construction and engineering projects to facilitate
more effective and accurate assessments of delay and disruption. The US
experience and good practice approaches in the UK demonstrate the
importance of implementing and establishing an 'event management strategy
and archive' at the outset of projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1007-1018
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Delay analysis, records, change event, event archive, programme, claims,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500521207
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:10:p:1007-1018
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wai-Ki Fu
Author-X-Name-First: Wai-Ki
Author-X-Name-Last: Fu
Author-Name: Hing-Po Lo
Author-X-Name-First: Hing-Po
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Title: Collective learning, collective knowledge and learning networks in construction
Abstract:
The interrelationships between collective learning, collective knowledge
and learning networks are complex and difficult, especially in a
construction context. A questionnaire survey was carried out in Hong Kong
to test the hypothesis that practitioners who need a wider domain of
knowledge for work learn more actively through their learning networks.
This empirical work revealed a positive association between the demand for
learning from others at work and the size of construction practitioners'
learning networks. The analysis also revealed two opposing aspects of
practitioners' learning behaviour influenced by the nature of their work.
First, civil engineers tend to manage larger learning networks, given that
they very often need to seek advice from other practitioners to deal with
issues beyond their specialities at work and coordinate outputs of other
practitioners as the project leader. Second, draughtsmen and clerks of
works (or inspectors of works), whose work mainly involves complying with
a finite scope of predetermined instructions and rules, appear not very
active in network learning. These findings will be useful in developing
learning policy for enhancing the competitiveness of the construction
industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1019-1028
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction, knowledge, learning, rule, network,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500228258
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Author-Name: Seung Ok
Author-X-Name-First: Seung
Author-X-Name-Last: Ok
Author-Name: Sunil Sinha
Author-X-Name-First: Sunil
Author-X-Name-Last: Sinha
Title: Construction equipment productivity estimation using artificial neural network model
Abstract:
Estimating equipment production rates is both an art and a science. An
accurate prediction of the productivity of earthmoving equipment is
critical for accurate construction planning and project control. Owing to
the unique work requirements and changeable environment of each
construction project, the influences of job and management factors on
operation productivity are often very complex. Hence, construction
productivity estimation, even for an operation with well-known equipment
and work methods, can be challenging. This study develops and compares two
methods for estimating construction productivity of dozer operations (the
transformed regression analysis, and a non-linear analysis using neural
network model). It is the hypothesis of this study that the proposed
neural networks model may improve productivity estimation models because
of the neural network's inherent ability to capture non-linearity and the
complexity of the changeable environment of each construction project. The
comparison of results suggests that the non-linear artificial neural
network (ANN) has the potential to improve the equipment productivity
estimation model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1029-1044
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction equipment, artificial neural network, productivity estimation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600851033
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Author-Name: Patricia Carrillo
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Carrillo
Author-Name: Herbert Robinson
Author-X-Name-First: Herbert
Author-X-Name-Last: Robinson
Author-Name: Chimay Anumba
Author-X-Name-First: Chimay
Author-X-Name-Last: Anumba
Author-Name: Nasreddine Bouchlaghem
Author-X-Name-First: Nasreddine
Author-X-Name-Last: Bouchlaghem
Title: A Knowledge Transfer Framework: the PFI context
Abstract:
The UK's Private Finance Initiative market is predicted to rise to over
£8 billion a year and there are indications of growing opportunities.
PFI creates a long-term income stream and provides valuable opportunities
for portfolio diversification. PFI has evolved at a fast pace and the
momentum is set to continue. However, there are major challenges facing
construction organisations. These include the lack of PFI experts, longer
negotiation periods and tight time schedules to deliver large-scale
schemes, high levels of investment and risks involved and limited
knowledge transfer between PFI projects. Concerns over the level of
knowledge sharing have prompted the development and evaluation of a
Knowledge Transfer Framework that encourages construction organisations to
transfer PFI knowledge between projects. It achieves this by building on a
questionnaire survey of PFI clients and construction companies, case
studies of companies involved in PFI, and research workshops to validate
the framework developed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1045-1056
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Knowledge transfer, Private Finance Initiative, framework,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799224
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bradley Eeing
Author-X-Name-First: Bradley
Author-X-Name-Last: Eeing
Author-Name: Jamie Brown Kruse
Author-X-Name-First: Jamie Brown
Author-X-Name-Last: Kruse
Title: Valuing self-protection: income and certification effects for safe rooms
Abstract:
Survey data from Tulsa, Oklahoma residents are used to examine individual
valuations of safe rooms. The study utilises two measures of individual
valuations, the maximum willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept
(WTA) for safe rooms. The primary research questions are concerned with
whether the willingness to pay measure exhibits income effects and whether
certification standards make the safe room investment more desirable. The
main findings can be summarised as follows. The mean willingness to pay
for a safe room was $2,500. The value of certification by a national
organisation increased willingness to pay for the safe room by $600 on
average. There is no direct income effect in that respondents' stated
willingness to pay does not bear a statistically significant relationship
to reported income. There is evidence of a secondary income effect in that
willingness to pay elicited from attendees of a suburban parade of homes
was $731 higher than attendees of an urban parade of homes. A mortgage
payment-based WTA measure yields mean valuations of the safe room more
than three times higher than the lump sum WTP valuation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1057-1068
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Safe room, willingness to pay, willingness to accept, valuation, certification,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600851090
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Author-Name: Rong-Yau Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Rong-Yau
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: A performance-based bridge LCCA model using visual inspection inventory data
Abstract:
Since most bridge life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) depends heavily on the
analyst's experience to determine the times and costs of remedial actions
over a bridge's lifetime, the results are often subject to question
because of their subjectivity. While some work has been done over the
years to develop reliable deterioration models for determining such times
and costs, the proposed models often require sophisticated inspection
data, which is costly to obtain, and/or complex mathematical calculations.
A simple linear deterioration model based on visual inspection inventory
data concerning bridge components is introduced and integrated into the
LCC analysis. The proposed model provides an alternative approach to
bridge LCC analysis that can improve the objectivity of analysis and does
not require input of sophisticated inspection, and thus facilitates
application of bridge life cycle cost analysis. The LCCA method developed
in this study is applied to a case study of alternative PCI (Pre-stressed
Concrete I-girder) and a PCB (Pre-stressed Concrete Box-girder) bridges
for the purpose of model validation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1069-1081
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Bridge management systems, life cycle cost analysis, deterioration model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600568124
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:10:p:1069-1081
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Author-Name: Christian Stoy
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Stoy
Author-Name: Susanne Kytzia
Author-X-Name-First: Susanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Kytzia
Title: Benchmarking electricity consumption
Abstract:
The building stock is one of the largest energy consumers and
simultaneously represents a relevant cost driver for most companies. Thus,
buildings should be optimally planned, constructed and used from both an
environmental and from an economic perspective. Benchmarking electricity
consumption in the usage phase is a tool for achieving this objective.
This requires a uniform collection of key usage indicators on the one
hand, and on the other hand it is necessary to be cognisant of the factors
that drive these key indicators and how they do so. This alone makes it
possible to satisfy the benchmarking principle of comparing like or
similar objects. Uniformly collected key indicators for electricity
consumption (kWh/m2 usable floor area and year) are presented on the basis
of 109 Swiss office buildings. This is broken down into further groupings
on the basis of the relevant drivers. The analysis of the drivers relies
on regression analysis. This demonstrates above all the great relevance of
technical installation (e.g. the share of mechanically vented and
ventilated as well as air-conditioned areas), given that the coverage area
of such systems has a significant effect on the electricity consumption of
office buildings. Accordingly, special attention should be paid to the
planning, construction and use of technical installations, in order to be
able to provide optimally energy-efficient buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1083-1089
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Benchmarking, energy, electricity consumption, office,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799414
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Fortune
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Fortune
Title: Process standardisation and the impact of professional judgement on the formulation of building project budget price advice
Abstract:
The generation of a reliable early stage building project price forecast
for its capital cost is an important aspect of any project's initial
appraisal. Such professional advice is central to clients' decision-making
processes. Work on early stage building project budget price forecasting
is reviewed and a change in the direction of future research is called for
in this topic area. This aim has been achieved by identifying seminal work
on the general topic, addressing its shortcomings, and then focusing on
research conducted to explore the formulation processes of quality
building project budget price advice. It is posited that poor quality
building project price forecasts affect clients seeking to make value for
money business decisions. Empirical evidence from previous research
indicates that previous calls for paradigm changes in practice towards the
adoption of newer more stochastic models or tools such as expert systems,
probabilistic and regression models have now been generally rejected. As a
result it is asserted that practice can be considered to be in crisis and
is looking to establish a new way forward. It is concluded that a research
agenda needs to be established that has process standardisation and
practitioner judgement as well as the existing information
engineering-based approach at its core. Such an additional strand to
future research in the topic area will help to ensure that the newly
emerging wave of project budget formulation tools, such as neural nets,
neuro-fuzzy nets, sustainability and whole life cost models are taken up
and used more effectively in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1091-1098
Issue: 10
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Project budget estimating, process, quality, judgement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600851116
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:10:p:1091-1098
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Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Letter to the Editor
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1107-1109
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601001620
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601001620
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1107-1109
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Author-Name: Paolo Tombesi
Author-X-Name-First: Paolo
Author-X-Name-Last: Tombesi
Title: Letter to the Editor
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1111-1111
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601004012
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601004012
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1111-1111
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vivian Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Vivian
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Kenneth Yiu
Author-X-Name-First: Kenneth
Author-X-Name-Last: Yiu
Author-Name: S. O. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: S. O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Critical factors for environmental performance assessment (EPA) in the Hong Kong construction industry
Abstract:
With the rise in the public concern on environmental protection, more
construction firms start to apply environmental management for their
construction activities. As a result, environmental management systems
(EMS) have been implemented in construction. However, to improve the
construction environment in Hong Kong, environmental performance
assessment (EPA) has been designed for reviewing, monitoring, checking and
evaluating environmental performance. A list of evaluation factors for EPA
are identified and grouped into seven major factors: management and
training; air and noise; auditing; waste and water; cost saving on
resources; energy; and regulation. The results from a survey highlight
that the most important evaluation factor is management and training and
the least significant result is regulation. A voluntary approach has been
promoted instead of the traditional mandatory system. Furthermore, three
case studies are used to test the reliability with seven groups of
evaluation factors in measuring the environmental performance for
construction. The results from the case study analysis proved the
effectiveness of the developed environmental performance assessment.
Therefore, the developed environmental performance assessment can benefit
the construction industry and help to achieve continuous improvement on
environmental performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1113-1123
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Environmental performance assessment, factor analysis, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799620
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600799620
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1113-1123
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: I Putu Artama Wiguna
Author-X-Name-First: I Putu Artama
Author-X-Name-Last: Wiguna
Author-Name: Stephen Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Title: Relating risk to project performance in Indonesian building contracts
Abstract:
A construction project is unique, specific and dynamic, and therefore
projects have different levels and combinations of risks, different
responses are taken to minimise those risks and different consequences
affect project performance. The primary aim of this study was to analyse
the impacts of perceived project risk on project performance. A path model
was developed and path analysis was used to determine the relationships
between risk and performance. The main survey was predominantly based on a
series of interviews with project managers. A total of 22 building
projects under construction were surveyed; however, only 13 projects used
an 'S' curve to monitor their project performance. The study focused on
these 13 projects and found that perceived project risk had a direct
negative effect on monthly progress achievement, while monthly progress
had a direct positive impact on schedule performance. Although project
risk had no direct effect on schedule performance, this was influenced
indirectly with monthly progress as the mediator between them. These
findings indicate that the higher the project risk in a project, the
greater the negative impact on monthly progress, and consequently the
worse the schedule performance will be.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1125-1135
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Building project, path analysis, project delay, project performance, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799760
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1125-1135
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Author-Name: Xiaohong Li
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaohong
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: John Ogier
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogier
Author-Name: John Cullen
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Cullen
Title: An economic modelling approach for public sector construction workload planning
Abstract:
The effectiveness of public sector construction workload planning can be
enhanced through employing an economic modelling approach to predict the
impact of different workloads on tender price changes. The main problem
associated with existing methods used for predicting tender price index
(TPI) for construction projects is a lack of robustness when the market
becomes unstable. This is due to limited consideration of market
conditions in these methods. An economic modelling approach has been
developed and applied for public sector construction workload planning in
the States of Guernsey where forward planning was required. The developed
model overcomes the problem of existing methods—lack of
robustness—by correlating TPI of construction projects to demand
over capacity ratio of the industry, which represents the industry's
economic condition. The model generates the price changes under different
planning options associated with different workloads over a five-year
planning period. The information is valuable to the public sector in
estimating actually required investment. This ensures the feasibility of
the plan and the possibility of contribution to the stability of the
construction market. The model development and application process
developed in this research can be used to assist a planning process for an
industry where a demand, capacity and price relationship is applied.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1137-1147
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Modelling, construction workload planning, tender price index, demand, capacity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600798960
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600798960
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1137-1147
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Jiang Hongbin
Author-X-Name-First: Jiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hongbin
Title: Analysing ownership, locational and internalization advantages of Chinese construction MNCs using rough sets analysis
Abstract:
The rough sets analysis focusing on the ownership, locational and
internalization (OLI) advantages of Chinese construction multinational
corporations (MNCs) in the international market under Dunning's Eclectic
Paradigm was adopted to overcome the sample size constraint in MNC
research that seeks to examine the causality patterns of the factors
identified. The rough sets methodology provides a solution that
conventional statistical methods do not offer to ascertain how these
factors are determined and their influence in the OLI analysis of the
performance of Chinese construction MNCs. The rough sets approach to
handling imperfect data with uncertainty and vagueness was adopted to
describe dependencies between attributes, evaluate the significance of
attributes and deal with inconsistencies. Based on a questionnaire survey
of 31 Chinese construction MNCs, findings from the rough sets analysis
suggest, among other things, that: (1) a firm is likely to perform well in
terms of its ownership advantages when it has a significant advantage on
its reputation and its accessibility to resources when compared with local
contractors; (2) a firm may be expected to achieve better results in terms
of its locational advantages if the large number of competitors from China
in the host countries becomes its most important consideration; and (3) a
firm that conscientiously avoids or reduces information search and
business negotiation costs would tend to perform well in terms of its
internalization advantages.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1149-1165
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Rough sets, eclectic paradigm, international construction, Chinese multinational corporations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500435739
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500435739
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1149-1165
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arshi Shakeel Faridi
Author-X-Name-First: Arshi Shakeel
Author-X-Name-Last: Faridi
Author-Name: Sameh Monir El-Sayegh
Author-X-Name-First: Sameh Monir
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Sayegh
Title: Significant factors causing delay in the UAE construction industry
Abstract:
Construction delay is considered one of the most recurring problems in
the construction industry. Delays have an adverse impact on project
success in terms of time, cost, quality and safety. The effects of
construction delays are not confined to the construction industry only,
but influence the overall economy of a country like UAE, where
construction plays a major role in its development and contributes 14% to
the GDP. Thus, it is essential to define the most significant causes of
delay in order to avoid or minimise their impact on construction projects.
A detailed questionnaire was developed and used to get input from
professionals associated with the UAE construction industry. The
perspective of contractors and consultants has been analysed to rank the
causes of delays based on their Relative Importance Index. Contractors and
consultants were in agreement on the most significant causes of delays.
The research revealed that 50% of the construction projects in UAE
encounter delays and are not completed on time. The top 10 most
significant causes of construction delays have been identified by this
research. Approval of drawings, inadequate early planning and slowness of
the owners' decision-making process are the top causes of delay in the UAE
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1167-1176
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Delay, project management, project controls, time, UAE,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600827033
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600827033
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1167-1176
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Shiers
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Shiers
Author-Name: Daniel Rapson
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Rapson
Author-Name: Claire Roberts
Author-X-Name-First: Claire
Author-X-Name-Last: Roberts
Author-Name: Miles Keeping
Author-X-Name-First: Miles
Author-X-Name-Last: Keeping
Title: Sustainable construction: the development and evaluation of an environmental profiling system for construction products
Abstract:
There has been a rapid increase in the number of low environmental impact
or 'green' buildings constructed in recent years, due to factors such as
the UK government's Sustainable Development Strategy, new environmental
legislation and perceived operational and business advantages.
Consequently, the demand for up-to-date information, guidance and design
'tools' to help property professionals procure greener buildings also
continues to grow. The development of a new edition of one such tool: The
Green Guide to Specification, was based on research designed to evaluate
user needs and current design and specification practices and
expectations. Many property professionals do not use environmental tools
on all projects because of time considerations and the disruption caused
by having to take an 'extra step' in the design and specification process.
Specifiers would only use such tools either when instructed to do so by
clients or because of the specifier's own organisational green agenda. For
environmental tools to be more widely used, information should also be
embedded within commonly used specification programmes such as the
National Building Specification (NBS) as well as in stand-alone versions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1177-1184
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Sustainability, green buildings, design process, specification, materials,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600892987
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600892987
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1177-1184
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gul Polat
Author-X-Name-First: Gul
Author-X-Name-Last: Polat
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Glenn Ballard
Author-X-Name-First: Glenn
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballard
Author-Name: Ugur Mungen
Author-X-Name-First: Ugur
Author-X-Name-Last: Mungen
Title: Economics of on-site vs. off-site fabrication of rebar
Abstract:
Many contractors prefer on-site fabrication of rebar while others find
that off-site fabrication is more advantageous. The economics of on-site
and off-site fabrication of rebar need to be compared on the basis of
several factors that include the project environment, wages, labour
considerations, the initial investment for equipment, waste of rebar, the
cost of inventory, cycle time, and supply chain management. This study
presents an economic comparison of the on-site and off-site fabrication
practices of rebar by means of a simulation model that makes use of the
factors mentioned earlier. The model is populated with actual data
obtained from a trade centre project in Istanbul, Turkey. The article
indicates that the off-site fabrication practice would have been more
costly than the on-site practice in the project in Istanbul, a finding
that was to be expected in circumstances that prevail in most developing
countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1185-1198
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Lean construction, cut and bent rebar, on-site fabrication, off-site fabrication, simulation model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190500529432
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190500529432
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1185-1198
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chi Mint Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Chi Mint
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: K. K. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: K. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Rough set theory for distilling construction safety measures
Abstract:
There are numerous construction safety measures adopted by the local
construction industry in Hong Kong. The purpose of this study is to distil
the more significant measures from all these practices. To achieve this,
the rough set theory, a data mining technique by applying the rule
induction method, is proposed to distil the rules that determine the
safety performance of construction firms. Rough sets represent a different
mathematical approach to vagueness and uncertainty. It is based on the
assumption that lowering the degree of precision in the data makes the
data pattern more visible. Under such an assumption, the rough set theory
can provide the ability of classifying vague and uncertain data. A
practical example is used to illustrate its application to distil these
safety measures and highlight those which are most effective and important
in combating site accidents. There are three decision rules identified;
the best one is companies with a comprehensive safety orientation
programme and good safety award campaigns for senior management staff
which give the lowest accident rate and the best safety performance.
Safety management rules can be successfully reduced, facilitating
contractors to direct their limited recourses effectively.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1199-1206
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Rough set theory, site operations, health and safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600879091
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600879091
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1199-1206
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Song
Author-X-Name-First: Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Song
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Craig Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: Extending construction linkage measures by the consideration of the impact of capital
Abstract:
Construction linkage is a well-established research field. However, a
significant limitation in previous linkage research is that the flow of
capital goods is not addressed. Using the OECD input-output tables, this
research first generates a new input-output model considering capital as
an intermediate factor. Using the new model, the construction linkages are
recalculated and investigated in order to evaluate further the role of
construction in national economies. The findings verify that traditional
construction linkages were extremely underestimated in previous research.
Furthermore, the effect of capital on construction shows a declining trend
over the examined period. After considering the effect of capital, most
values and rankings of backward and forward linkages show a decreasing
trend, which confirms the declining role of the construction sector with
economic maturity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1207-1216
Issue: 11
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Construction sector, input-output analysis, capital, linkages,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600599152
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600599152
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:11:p:1207-1216
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ronie Navon
Author-X-Name-First: Ronie
Author-X-Name-Last: Navon
Author-Name: Issam Haskaya
Author-X-Name-First: Issam
Author-X-Name-Last: Haskaya
Title: Is detailed progress monitoring possible without designated manual data collection?
Abstract:
The daily site report (DSR)—a common tool, which contains a lot of
valuable data— is normally used for litigation purposes, i.e.
claims and dispute resolution. All these valuable data are rarely used for
the management and control of the ongoing project. The purpose of the
current research is to develop a tool that uses data taken from a
computerized DSR to generate monitoring and control information. We have
developed a progress monitoring model, which uses data from a computerized
DSR to generate information regarding the actual progress and then
transfer it to the scheduling software. The model was developed and
implemented in a concept proving prototype using Excel and MS Project. The
operation and the usefulness of the prototype are demonstrated with a case
study, synthetic, project. The results indicate that the DSR is a useful
data collection tool for progress monitoring. The cost of the information
generated from these data is low because no additional manual operations
are required in order to collect the data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1225-1229
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Daily site report, data collection, progress control, project control, site records,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600999097
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600999097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1225-1229
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei Tong Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Wei Tong
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Ying-Hua Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Ying-Hua
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Approximately predicting the cost and duration of school reconstruction projects in Taiwan
Abstract:
Regression and neural network models have been developed to predict the
cost and duration of projects for the reconstruction of schools which must
be quickly rebuilt. Data for the school reconstruction projects in central
Taiwan, which received the most serious damage from the Chi-Chi
Earthquake, were collected and analysed. The analytical results
demonstrate that the floor area provides a good basis for estimating the
cost and duration of school reconstruction projects, and suggest that the
neural network model with back-propagation learning technique is a
feasible approach that yields better prediction results than the
regression model for school reconstruction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1231-1239
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Cost and duration, reconstruction project, regression analysis, neural networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600953805
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600953805
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1231-1239
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nang-Fei Pan
Author-X-Name-First: Nang-Fei
Author-X-Name-Last: Pan
Title: Evaluation of building performance using fuzzy FTA
Abstract:
Estimating exact probabilities of occurrence of fault events for use in
the conventional fault tree analysis (FTA) is difficult when failure data
are insufficient or fault events are imprecise such as human error. A
hybrid approach employing fuzzy sets and possibility theory is proposed to
overcome this problem. In this approach, failure possibilities of vague
events are characterised by fuzzy sets to translate expert subjective
judgements while fuzzy fault rates are derived from fuzzy possibility
scores based on a transformed Onisawa's possibility function. An example
of beam failure illustrates the use of the approach and demonstrates the
capability of the model that can assist safety engineers to effectively
assess fault possibilities and better evaluate building performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1241-1252
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Building performance, failure possibility, risk assessment, FTA, fuzzy sets,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600851066
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600851066
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1241-1252
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Onur Tokdemir
Author-X-Name-First: Onur
Author-X-Name-Last: Tokdemir
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Cenk Balcik
Author-X-Name-First: Cenk
Author-X-Name-Last: Balcik
Title: ALISS: Advanced Linear Scheduling System
Abstract:
The line of balance (LOB) method is not widely used in the construction
industry even though it has distinct advantages in repetitive construction
projects. Attempts were made in the past to develop LOB systems but no
system has met with universal acceptance because of a multitude of
problems. As a response, a tool named ALISS was developed that solves most
of the problems associated with LOB applications. ALISS is an acronym for
Advanced Linear Scheduling System and makes use of a model that utilises
the tools of information technology to the fullest extent. This is
accomplished by creating a system that has a standalone and a web-based
version. ALISS is programmed using Visual Basic and Visual Basic Script
languages. It utilises MS Access and SQL server as a data repository. The
resulting Advanced Linear Scheduling System not only accommodates all LOB
requirements but also provides the latest technological developments as an
embedded tool.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1253-1267
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Linear scheduling, repetitive construction, line of balance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600953706
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600953706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1253-1267
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shu-Ling Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: Innovation in small construction knowledge-intensive professional service firms: a case study of an architectural practice
Abstract:
Small construction knowledge-intensive professional service firms
(SCKIPSFs) are becoming increasingly important agents of innovation within
the construction industry. The nature and process of innovation in
SCKIPSFs, however, is generally considered through the constraining prism
of research results generated from significantly different contexts, such
as from manufacturing sectors or non-project based firms. A theory of
innovation for SCKIPSFs is developed from a longitudinal 22-month case
study of a small architectural practice. Two forms of knowledge-based
innovation were discerned from the empirical work: exploitative innovation
and explorative innovation. 'Explorative innovation' was found to be
located in immediate 'new' project domains, and entailed search,
variation, experimentation, activity to solve project-specific problems;
while 'exploitative innovation' concentrated on developing generic
organisational infrastructure to 'refine' and 'improve the efficiency' of
the firm operations to nurture capability for future activity. The key
challenge for SCKIPSFs is to develop and manage an appropriate balance
between explorative and exploitative innovation over time in order to
generate sustainable competitive advantage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1269-1282
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Knowledge-intensive, professional service firms, innovation, small enterprises,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600879109
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600879109
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1269-1282
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Evelyn Ai-Lin Teo
Author-X-Name-First: Evelyn Ai-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Teo
Author-Name: N. Harikrishna
Author-X-Name-First: N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Harikrishna
Title: A quantitative model for efficient maintenance of plastered and painted facades
Abstract:
Building owners are faced with increasing maintenance costs incurred to
rectify defects on different building elements and systems. With a
significant proportion of maintenance costs spent on upkeep of building
facades, there is a need for cost-effective approaches for facade
maintenance. A quantitative model is developed for effective evaluation,
optimization and management of costs of maintenance of plastered and
painted facades. Visual surveys were used to collect information about
defects on the external plaster and paint finish for public housing
apartment blocks in Singapore. The data were used to develop 'defect index
models' for each type of defect to predict its onset and propagation. The
output from these models was incorporated into a life cycle cost model
that can be used to predict and optimise the timing and magnitude of
maintenance/repair costs incurred on plastered and painted facades during
their intended lifetime.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1283-1293
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: External finish, facade, life cycle cost, maintenance, service life,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600987704
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600987704
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1283-1293
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Title: The innovation competence of repeat public sector clients in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
The role of client leadership in improving construction industry
performance by increasing the rate and quality of innovation activity has
been receiving increasing attention globally over the past decade. There
has however been less attention given to the capability of clients to
effectively perform this role. The literature suggests that the internal
innovation competency of clients impacts on their potential to encourage
innovation throughout the industry. Based on data collected via a
large-scale survey of the Australian construction industry, the innovation
competence of repeat public sector clients is examined using descriptive
statistics. The results show that the clients have a relatively high level
of innovation competence, compared to contractors, consultants and
suppliers. The role of innovation competence is important. If public
sector client agencies wish to protect and promote the role they play in
encouraging industry innovation, they need to nurture their internal
innovation competence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1295-1304
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: Innovation competence, innovation indicators, client leadership,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600934953
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600934953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1295-1304
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Johansen
Author-X-Name-First: Eric
Author-X-Name-Last: Johansen
Author-Name: Brian Wilson
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilson
Title: Investigating first planning in construction
Abstract:
There is a divergence of research opinion as to the efficacy of detailed
front end construction planning (first planning) and its use for strategic
or tactical purposes. What really happens in planning construction
projects is considered by focusing on comparing the responses of key
stakeholders in the construction planning process. Contrasting
perspectives of office- and site-based staff upon the accuracy of project
timescales are identified together with their dissimilar methods of
programme development and preferred first planning detail level.
Consistently divergent views are expressed by office-based preconstruction
planners and site-based construction project managers, including a
reluctance to engage others during first planning held by the former and a
limited belief in completion of the project to another's timescale
(without their personal input) expressed by the latter. Significant
role-based discrepancies in their approach to first planning are revealed
and the potential for further research into cultural and behavioural
motivators is highlighted.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1305-1314
Issue: 12
Volume: 24
Year: 2006
Keywords: First planning, project planning, construction planning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600863160
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600863160
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:24:y:2006:i:12:p:1305-1314
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Construction in Developing Countries
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-6
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601114134
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601114134
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:1-6
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Michael Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: Impact of globalization on the construction sector in developing countries
Abstract:
The international movement towards open markets promoted by the World
Trade Organisation (WTO) has as its premise that trade liberalisation will
benefit all concerned. Each country should be able to exploit its position
of comparative advantage once a free and fair trade regime has been
implemented. Although most commentators agree that in theory free trade
should be beneficial, its implementation has been anything but beneficial
for the developing countries. The construction sector falls under the
provisions of the services negotiations of the WTO, and stands to
experience the effects of trade liberalisation. Whether construction firms
from the developing countries stand to gain or lose from this exposure to
open competition is discussed in the light of the inequity with which the
developing countries have been treated in the globalization of markets to
date.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 7-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Free trade, inequality, construction, globalization, WTO,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601248
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601248
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:7-23
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charles Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Author-Name: Jian Kang
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Kang
Author-Name: David Chew
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Chew
Title: Strategic analysis of large local construction firms in China
Abstract:
The many transitory changes in China have raised the intensity level of
competition among construction firms. Despite having a high growth
economy, some construction firms continue to suffer from low
profitability. Meanwhile, practical cases and empirical findings related
to Chinese construction firms remain lacking. This research develops a
conceptual model for improving the competitiveness of large construction
firms in China. The model integrates two main streams of strategic
management theories—the industrial organisation theories, and the
resource-based and competence-based views. Critical variables that form
the model are initially identified from an environmental analysis and the
case studies of 12 large Chinese construction companies. The relationships
between competitive strategies, important resources and competencies, and
competitive advantage are then verified using survey results. The
statistical findings suggest that two strategies—differentiation
and market/product diversification, and three important resources and
competencies—technological innovative capabilities, financial
capabilities and guanxi (relationship), directly affect firm performance
as measured by revenue and profit growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-38
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: China, competence, competitiveness, construction companies, strategic analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600693450
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:25-38
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Mbachu
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbachu
Author-Name: Raymond Nkado
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond
Author-X-Name-Last: Nkado
Title: Factors constraining successful building project implementation in South Africa
Abstract:
The prevalence of client dissatisfaction in the South African building
industry is a consequence of non-achievement of set project objectives due
to identifiable constraints. The paper presents the results of
investigations into the nature, magnitudes and frequencies of occurrence
of these constraints. The descriptive survey method was used with
qualitative data gathering through semi-structured interviews, and
quantitative data gathering using structured questionnaires.
Multi-attribute methods and rank correlation tests were used in the data
analyses. A set of consultants' and contractors' acts of omission or
commission is shown as the most influential and most frequently occurring
factor constraining successful project delivery in the South African
building industry. The controllable factors account for 67% of the
perceived discrepancies between expected and actual outcomes of project
development. An Influence-Frequency matrix was developed and applied as a
conceptual framework for establishing the risk levels of the identified
project constraints. The application of this framework is recommended as
an effective approach to risk analysis and risk response development in
project management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 39-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Development constraints, Influence-Frequency matrix, project management, project success criteria, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601297
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:39-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pantaleo Mutajwaa Daniel Rwelamila
Author-X-Name-First: Pantaleo Mutajwaa Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Rwelamila
Title: Project management competence in public sector infrastructure organisations
Abstract:
Public sector organisations responsible for infrastructure development in
most non-industrialised countries, which include infrastructure
departments/ministries, parastatal organisations and other statutory
organisations qualify as project-oriented organisations (POO). There are
strong indications to suggest that these organisations' project management
(PM) competencies leave a lot to be desired. At face value they purport to
be fully fledged project-oriented organisations and performing as
competent PM organisations, while in reality they are predominantly
dependent on accidental project managers. This paper reports on a study
that was carried out in one of the large infrastructure departments in
South Africa. The focus is on one of the premiere programmes managed by
the department. The management of the programme is scrutinised in order to
establish the department/ministry's PM competence. An evaluation of the
performance of the programme was carried out in relation to the ministry's
mandate in order to assess its PM competence. It is found that the
programme in its current form could be described as a 'white elephant' and
a programme that does not have an appropriate organisation structure, nor
appropriate and sufficient staff to carry out its objectives. The
programme's management system is found to be very poor and at the lowest
level of maturity (level 1 out of 5). Recommendations are made that the
programme in its current form cannot fulfil its mandate successfully
without a fundamental overhaul, addressing its organisational structure,
personnel qualifications and programme management system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-66
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Project management competence, public sector, culture, infrastructure organisations, South Africa, non-industrialised countries,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601099210
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601099210
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chrisna Du Plessis
Author-X-Name-First: Chrisna Du
Author-X-Name-Last: Plessis
Title: A strategic framework for sustainable construction in developing countries
Abstract:
There is no doubt that large-scale development in the built environment
and its physical infrastructure is needed in the so-called 'developing
countries'. However, these problems need to be addressed in a way that is
socially and ecologically responsible. There is great urgency to make
sustainable interventions now, while these built environments are being
created, rather than try and change things after the fact. However, there
are a number of challenges to the introduction of sustainable construction
technologies and practices, and certain enablers need to be developed to
help these countries adopt a more sustainable path. The Agenda 21 for
Sustainable Construction in Developing Countries suggested a strategy for
addressing some of these challenges by developing a Research and
Development Agenda, based on a matrix of immediate, medium-term and
long-term technological, institutional and value enablers. This Agenda is
supported by a Stakeholder Plan for Action. The challenge now is to find
the means to implement these suggestions at a local level by developing
regional and national action plans.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 67-76
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Sustainable, construction, development, developing countries, strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601313
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601313
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:67-76
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vedat Yorucu
Author-X-Name-First: Vedat
Author-X-Name-Last: Yorucu
Author-Name: Rusen Keles
Author-X-Name-First: Rusen
Author-X-Name-Last: Keles
Title: The construction boom and environmental protection in Northern Cyprus as a consequence of the Annan Plan
Abstract:
The Annan peace plan has led to a major construction boom in the Turkish
Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), in large part driven by speculative
demand for real estate. A macroeconomic framework has been used to analyse
the principal causes and impacts of the construction sector on the TRNC
economy, particularly in terms of income and employment. Given that the
TRNC possesses a unique and rare ecosystem in the Eastern Mediterranean,
special attention is given to environmental impacts of the current
construction boom, highlighting environmental costs and deficiencies in
land zoning regulations. Environmental pollution as a result of rapid
construction and unplanned urbanisation are also discussed and there is
urgent need for rigorous environmental legislation, especially at local
government level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 77-86
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Annan Plan, construction boom, economy, environmental ethics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600902356
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600902356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:77-86
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jill Wells
Author-X-Name-First: Jill
Author-X-Name-Last: Wells
Title: Informality in the construction sector in developing countries
Abstract:
Studies dating from the mid 1990s describe a rapid expansion of
'informal' construction activity in many parts of the developing world.
This has been accompanied by increasing diversity in the interpretation of
the concept, leading to considerable confusion. Through a wide review of
the literature an attempt is made to bring some clarity to the debate. It
is argued that the essence of informality is the absence of regulation. As
construction activity is subject to a wide variety of regulations,
different interpretations of informality in the construction industry are
inevitable. Four aspects of regulation are highlighted: regulation of
enterprises, of the terms and conditions of employment, of the process of
construction and of the product. This suggests four areas of informality:
the informal sector of enterprises, informal labour, the informal
construction system and informal building/settlements. The four areas are
frequently interrelated. But there are no hard and fast dividing lines
between formal and informal, rather a gradation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 87-93
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Informal sector, regulation, construction, developing countries, Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600601339
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600601339
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:87-93
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johnny Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Philco Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Philco
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Li Heng
Author-X-Name-First: Li
Author-X-Name-Last: Heng
Title: An investigation of leadership styles and relationship cultures of Chinese and expatriate managers in multinational construction companies in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Cross-cultural leadership research has predicted that the Chinese are
perceived as people-oriented and prefer a high-context power relationship,
whereas Westerners are perceived as task-oriented and prefer a low-context
power relationship. However, such general predictions are less accurate
when intercultural interactions exist in multicultural workplaces. For
this reason leadership perceptions and power relationships of both Chinese
and Western expatriate project managers are explored in multinational
construction firms in Hong Kong. Questionnaire data from 45 project
managers and 61 subordinates suggested that the local (Hong Kong) Chinese
and Western expatriate managers do not differ significantly in terms of
leadership perceptions and power relationships. Both manager groups
equally considered the importance of task performance and interpersonal
relationships. Two possibilities are proposed which lead to similar
leadership and power relationship styles of managers from different
cultural orientations: the 'intercultural adjustment' of expatriates, and
the adaptation of Western styles of leadership by the Hong Kong Chinese
project managers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 95-106
Issue: 1
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: China, project manager, leadership, culture, international business,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600632573
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:1:p:95-106
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Gruneberg
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gruneberg
Title: Performance-Based Contracting: an alternative approach to transacting in construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 111-112
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601043119
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:111-112
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Hubert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Hubert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Antecedents of commitment in construction management
Abstract:
It is difficult to request that all professionals implementing a
construction project have intrinsic responsibility for the whole project
from planning to construction and maintenance due to the dynamic
environment and the intracompany transitions. In an attempt to understand
the phenomenon of commitment in the construction industry, this study
seeks to identify the factors that bring about goal commitment among
construction professionals. A questionnaire survey was conducted in Hong
Kong. Analytical techniques including factor analysis, correlation
coefficient and regression analysis, and structural equation modelling
were applied to investigate the relationships among the factors and three
forms of commitment. The results indicate that goal assignment and
acceptance, specific goal achievement and membership maintenance in an
organization are the major antecedents of (affective and normative)
commitment for construction professionals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-127
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Behaviour, commitment, construction industry, professionals,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601061939
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601061939
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:113-127
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ching-Hwang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ching-Hwang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Chia-Chang Tsai
Author-X-Name-First: Chia-Chang
Author-X-Name-Last: Tsai
Author-Name: Yi-Yen Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Yi-Yen
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Title: Knowledge-based diagnosis model for PCM executing problems in public construction
Abstract:
A knowledge-based diagnosis model for PCM executing problems in Taiwan
public construction is proposed by using a new fuzzy-neural approach. The
diagnosis model confirms the causalities of the critical executing
problems. By inputting the fuzziness of semantic description of the
problems in the design phase this model can deduce the corresponding
influence of the problems in the construction phase. The gravity of the
problem is measured by the specific lagging percentage of estimated
pricing progress. Finally, the data is integrated into a database
management system to facilitate application, so as to make this diagnosis
model an efficient instrument for public construction management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-142
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Professional construction management, knowledge-base, fuzzy-neural approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600799091
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:129-142
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Milan Radosavljevic
Author-X-Name-First: Milan
Author-X-Name-Last: Radosavljevic
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Process planning methodology: dynamic short-term planning for off-site construction in Slovenia
Abstract:
Planning is a vital element of project management but it is still not
recognized as a process variable. Its objective should be to outperform
the initially defined processes, and foresee and overcome possible
undesirable events. Detailed task-level master planning is unrealistic
since one cannot accurately predict all the requirements and obstacles
before work has even started. The process planning methodology (PPM) has
thus been developed in order to overcome common problems of the
overwhelming project complexity. The essential elements of the PPM are the
process planning group (PPG), including a control team that dynamically
links the production/site and management, and the planning algorithm
embodied within two continuous-improvement loops. The methodology was
tested on a factory project in Slovenia and in four successive projects of
a similar nature. In addition to a number of improvement ideas and
enhanced communication, the applied PPM resulted in 32% higher total
productivity, 6% total savings and created a synergistic project
environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 143-156
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Productivity, planning, project management, project control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601026494
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:143-156
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goh Bee Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh Bee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hua
Title: Applying the strategic alignment model to business and ICT strategies of Singapore's small and medium-sized architecture, engineering and construction enterprises
Abstract:
The concept of strategic alignment advocates that decisions on business
strategy, information and communication technology (ICT) strategy,
business infrastructure and ICT infrastructure need to be coordinated in
order to better realize the benefits from ICT investments. In Singapore,
there is a 10-year plan presented by the government to transform the
sector of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and ICT is identified
as an area for SMEs to acquire new capabilities. In this context, the
strategic alignment framework is used to evaluate Singapore's small and
medium-sized architecture, engineering and construction enterprises on
their current practices in the ICT domain. An industry-wide postal survey,
adopting the IT Barometer questionnaire and applying stratified sampling,
obtained 84 responses out of a total of 754 companies contacted. Of the
84, 67 responses were further stratified by size and annual turnover,
according to the SMEs definition, to allow a closer examination of each
strata or class. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis are
used, and the main findings of the research are: (1) targeted schemes need
to be set up to address the specific needs and concerns of the micro and
small enterprises as distinct from those of the medium-sized enterprises
pertaining to building ICT capability; (2) the two common alignment
perspectives adopted by the larger 'designer' and 'builder' SMEs are
'strategy execution' and 'competitive potential'; and (3) the medium-sized
'designer' and 'builder' enterprises are shown to favour technology
leadership and customer satisfaction, respectively, as their niche
performance criteria for the strategic use of ICTs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 157-169
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Business strategy, information and communication technology strategy, strategic alignment, small and medium-sized enterprises, Singapore construction industry,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600827041
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Author-Name: Perry John Forsythe
Author-X-Name-First: Perry John
Author-X-Name-Last: Forsythe
Title: A conceptual framework for studying customer satisfaction in residential construction
Abstract:
A conceptual framework for studying customer satisfaction in Australian
residential construction is developed using marketing theory merged with
construction concepts. The framework aims to act as a stepping stone for
determining how empirical data from real residential construction
situations and real customers, fits marketing theory. To this end,
customer satisfaction is modelled as a gap between two constructs:
pre-purchase expectations and purchase perceptions. A parallel marketing
concept known as the purchase decision process is used to model
identifiable inputs to the two constructs, thus creating the ability to
model different customer profiles. The purchase decision process is
adapted to suit residential construction and can be described as: housing
needs recognition, search for tenders, evaluation of competing
contractors, signing of contracts, progressive construction outcomes and
practical completion outcomes. The first four contribute to pre-purchase
expectations and the remainder to perceptions of what is actually
provided. Service quality, product quality and price are modelled as
features that manifest consistently during the purchase decision process
and therefore in pre-purchase expectations and purchase perceptions, as
well. Future research aims to develop a grounded model of customer
satisfaction in residential construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 171-182
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Customer satisfaction, residential construction, house building,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600771439
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600771439
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:171-182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei Pan
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Pan
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Perspectives of UK housebuilders on the use of offsite modern methods of construction
Abstract:
Despite an increasing demand for housing and wider concerns over the need
to improve performance, the industry seems to be reluctant to adopt
offsite technologies. Many studies have attempted to scrutinize the
barriers and seek ways forward, but the perspectives of housebuilders
remain unclear. UK housebuilders' views on the use of offsite modern
methods of construction (offsite MMC) have been investigated. This
investigation was carried out through a combination of personal interviews
and a questionnaire survey of the top 100 housebuilders by unit
completion. Results suggest that the traditional drivers of time, cost,
quality and productivity are still driving the industry in deciding
whether to use offsite technologies. Nearly two-thirds of the firms
believed that there needs to be an increase in the take-up of such
technologies. However, current barriers relate to a perceived higher
capital cost, complex interfacing, long lead-in time and delayed planning
process. Strategies recommended are centred on changing peoples'
perceptions, improving procurement, providing better cost data, tackling
planning and regulations, encouraging political levers and providing
practical guidance. The suggestions present a model for encouraging the
take-up of offsite MMC in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-194
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction methods, housebuilding, offsite production, strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600827058
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600827058
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:183-194
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Graafland
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Graafland
Author-Name: Andre Nijhof
Author-X-Name-First: Andre
Author-X-Name-Last: Nijhof
Title: Transparency, market operation and trust in the Dutch construction industry: an exploratory study
Abstract:
After the discovery of illegal price agreements in the Dutch construction
industry, the government and major players in the sector have initiated a
transition process towards more professional commercial relations. In the
transition process transparency plays an important part, as it is a
precondition for better market operation in the construction sector.
However, there are significant disadvantages to a pursuit of transparency,
such as higher costs and the risk of information overload. It is therefore
necessary to find a good balance between more transparency and other ways
to restore trust between key players in the construction sector.
Especially complex products with a high degree of risk can best be dealt
with through implicit contracts, in which trust is based on a mixture of
the reputation mechanism, contracts that create a congruity of interests
and the integrity of the contract partners.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 195-205
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Transparency, market operation, trust, integrity, implicit contracts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600830631
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600830631
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:195-205
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bambang Trigunarsyah
Author-X-Name-First: Bambang
Author-X-Name-Last: Trigunarsyah
Title: Project designers' role in improving constructability of Indonesian construction projects
Abstract:
The concept of constructability in the US evolved from studies into how
improvement can be achieved to increase cost efficiency and quality in the
construction industry. It is an approach that links the design and
construction processes. Studies in the US, UK and Australia have
demonstrated that improved constructability has led to significant savings
in both cost and time required for completing construction projects.
Improving projects' constructability is the responsibility of all project
stakeholders. As design activities dominate the early project phases,
design consultants play an important role in improving project
constructability. Information has been collected on construction project
designers in Indonesia in regard to constructability practice and its
impact on the project performance. A questionnaire survey was carried out
to collect the data, which were then analysed using descriptive and
inferential statistics. The results show that project designers in
Indonesia have some understanding of the importance of constructability.
However, they were concerned more about preparing the design than
interfacing with construction personnel.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-215
Issue: 2
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Constructability, project designers, project performance, Indonesia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600830649
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600830649
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:2:p:207-215
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: The temporal nature of forces acting on innovative IT in major construction projects
Abstract:
Strategic IT implementation decisions for major construction projects in
Hong Kong are subject to various forces or factors identified in previous
research—such as external forces, technological factors and
organizational factors. The aim of this research was to examine the
relationship (if any) between these families of forces and evaluate their
impact, individually and collectively. A complex combination of several
families of forces/factors that affect decision making was found to be
'temporal' with respect to project teams on major projects in Hong Kong.
The research was underpinned by a broad questionnaire survey to establish
'current practice' before in-depth analysis of the forces by means of a
case study followed by interviews with industry leaders to confirm the
results. It was found that respondents (n = 33) ordered cost,
security and confidentiality as the most influential factors affecting IT
implementation. A difference was found in the perceptions of 'hired-in'
project-based staff in joint ventures and 'permanent staff' of single
companies, the former evaluating IT performance more highly but evaluating
the strategic use of, and user satisfaction with, IT significantly lower.
The major constraint on IT implementation was found to be lack of budget,
not cost per se. It is concluded that the temporal factors that apply to
implementing innovative IT technology in project teams are relevant to
different team members at different stages in the project life cycle and
these factors are conditioned by a set of business conditions applying to
project-specific coalition organizations that are different from those
that apply to single-entity organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 227-238
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Innovative IT, adoption factors, electronic communications, temporal nature of projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600953698
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600953698
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:227-238
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joseph Gaiva Kappia
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph Gaiva
Author-X-Name-Last: Kappia
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Andrew Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Title: Prioritising career development in relation to recruitment and retention: a trade and craft perspective
Abstract:
Individuals attach a certain priority to key extrinsic and intrinsic
work-related factors, namely: career development, financial incentives,
work conditions, job content, job security and social relations. These
factors have variously been described as influencing career choice and
also determining what causes individuals to remain or leave careers. In
particular, the ongoing skills crisis faced by the UK construction sector
has raised the profile of career development as a factor to recruiting and
retaining an appropriately skilled workforce. The priorities attached to
career development and other work-related factors were explored via a
questionnaire survey of over 550 craft trainees. Their relative priorities
were validated through a set of focused discussions in which informants
disclosed the reasons underlying their preference, and their wider
perceptions of the industry. Results reveal that, contrary to anecdotal
suggestions, craft workers are not purely motivated by monetary reward.
Trainees aspired to develop their career beyond the confines of their
specific craft specialization. However, further results suggest that
available career development opportunities do not provide suitable
transitional routes towards managerial and professional positions. This
raises questions as to whether the industry will be able to attract and
retain workers in the future without improving career pathways.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 239-253
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Human resource management, occupation, craft, workforce, careers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600863145
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600863145
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:239-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ingrid Meintjes
Author-X-Name-First: Ingrid
Author-X-Name-Last: Meintjes
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: David Root
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Root
Title: HIV/AIDS in the South African construction industry: understanding the HIV/AIDS discourse for a sector-specific response
Abstract:
HIV/AIDS is a pandemic with serious implications for South Africa in
general, and the South African construction industry in particular. It is
the single largest cause of death in South Africa. Against a backdrop of
an acute shortage of housing and infrastructure provision, the prevalence
of HIV/AIDS among construction workers is impacting negatively on the
delivery capacity of the industry. The construction sector is uniquely
vulnerable to the pandemic but there is limited industry-specific research
available. Industry-specific interventions are limited to 'awareness'
initiatives at project level. Political ambivalence is a major stumbling
block. The institutional audit methodology is used to examine the impact
of HIV/AIDS on the construction industry as a whole. This examination is
conducted within the prevailing political context within which the
industry operates. The construction sector urgently needs to develop
mechanisms to manage the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic so that
anticipated industry growth is not compromised by the economic, systemic
and social impacts of the disease. In South Africa, the CIDB should
provide more effective leadership; legislation is required to compel the
universal adoption of HIV/AIDS programmes; and a change is needed in the
mindset of key role players in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 255-266
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, health care, site operatives, construction sector, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601071813
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601071813
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:255-266
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Denise Hui Ying Kwok
Author-X-Name-First: Denise Hui Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Kwok
Title: Enablers for Singapore contractors to internationalize construction services
Abstract:
With international trade liberalization, construction firms are expected
to export their services to ensure continued growth. Some firms have been
successful in the international arena, while many are still struggling to
gain a foothold outside their domestic markets. The characteristics of
construction firms that enable them to secure contracts outside their home
countries are investigated. The characteristics of exporters and
non-exporters are compared. Detailed characteristics of 60 exporters and
60 non-exporters were obtained from the database of registered contractors
in Singapore. Significant variables that correlate with the number and
value of international projects were identified. In order to win more
overseas projects, firms should be well established, have stronger
financial capability and have continued operations in the home market.
When exporting, firms should be willing to play the role of both main and
subcontractors, have the capability to handle different types of projects
and venture into several geographical locations. Several differences
between exporters and non-exporters based in Singapore are identified.
Exporting firms are more likely to be public listed firms, and larger
firms with higher paid up capital. Non-exporters are more likely to be
principal contractors who are handling a wide variety of projects. Firms
that want to export their services would need to develop their financial
strength, and offer niche products or services.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 267-275
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: International construction, export, construction services, construction firms,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600781834
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600781834
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:267-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Title: Stakeholder impact analysis in construction project management
Abstract:
Construction projects attract interest from various stakeholders who
express needs and expectations about the project. These are often in
conflict with each other and it is unlikely that all of them can be
fulfilled. The stakeholder management process involves evaluating the
needs and expectations of stakeholders in relation to the main objectives
of the project. An important basis for this evaluation is stakeholder
analysis. The approach is based upon established theory, knowledge of
stakeholder management and empirical data. The analysis consists of a
stakeholder impact index to determine the nature and impact of stakeholder
influence, the probability of stakeholders exercising their influence and
each stakeholder's position in relation to the project—are they
proponents or opponents? The analysis of the stakeholder impact index can
help project managers to formalize a stakeholder management process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 277-287
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Project management, project stakeholders, project strategies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600879125
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600879125
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:277-287
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Author-Name: Jiri Hietanen
Author-X-Name-First: Jiri
Author-X-Name-Last: Hietanen
Title: Interorganizational use of building information models: potential for automational, informational and transformational effects
Abstract:
Numerous potential barriers to the interorganizational use of building
information models (BIMs) have been reported. These potential barriers are
technological and organizational. Further, potential barriers are specific
to building information models and general to the diffusion of innovation.
In spite of potential barriers, there is interorganizational use of BIMs
in Finland. The research was carried out in Finland, and investigated
organizations' existing and planned interorganizational use of BIMs. The
research revealed the potential for interorganizational use of BIMs to
enable three types of effects. These are automational effects,
informational effects and transformational effects. The generalizability
of findings is restricted by at least three factors. First, the research
involved only 20 organizations. Second, the research was carried out in
one country. Third, the research participants had previously developed
skills which can contribute to the interorganizational use of BIMs.
Notwithstanding these limitations, consideration of findings suggests that
there are few, if any, fundamental barriers to the achievement of
automational, informational and/or transformational effects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 289-296
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Information technology, interfirm collaboration, building information model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600892995
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600892995
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:289-296
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiao-Hua Jin
Author-X-Name-First: Xiao-Hua
Author-X-Name-Last: Jin
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Author-Name: Shi-Yun Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Shi-Yun
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Title: Relationship-based determinants of building project performance in China
Abstract:
The aim of this paper is to investigate the relationship-based factors
that affect performance of general building projects in China. Eight
performance metrics that may be used to measure the success level of
construction projects are defined and categorized into two groups namely
'hard' and 'soft' performance. Eight indicators of risks inherent in
relationships and seven indicators of tools expected to facilitate
relationship building that may affect project success are identified. Data
of different projects were collected in China via a self-administered
postal survey. By using structural equation modelling techniques, a
structural model is developed to help explain the relationship among
different variables. It has been found that relational risk has negative
influence on project performance. It is recommended that firms in the
Chinese construction industry manage the relationship-based factors that
are significant in the model so as to achieve project success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 297-304
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Relationship, risk, project performance, structural equation modelling, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600863178
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600863178
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:297-304
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Filippo Giammaria Pratico
Author-X-Name-First: Filippo Giammaria
Author-X-Name-Last: Pratico
Title: Quality and timeliness in highway construction contracts: a new acceptance model based on both mechanical and surface performance of flexible pavements
Abstract:
Timely completion and high performance are becoming key factors in modern
road projects, so research is needed to have reliable contracts and
acceptance criteria. The goal of this paper is confined to the
formalization and validation of a unique model for the determination of
pay adjustment on the basis of both quality (mechanical and surface
performance of road pavements) and timeliness. Three main topics are
addressed. The first is the estimation of pay adjustment (PA, negative or
positive) when both structural and non-structural deficiencies/surplus in
characteristics are detected (e.g. low drainability in porous asphalt
concretes). The second is the estimation of PA based on the quality of all
the layers of the pavement. The third is the estimation of PA for early or
late completion of the work. The formalized model is applied to an
experimental case history. Analyses and validation demonstrate that the
proposed model can efficiently solve typical problems in contract
administration, in which decisions based upon objective criteria are
needed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-313
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Quality assurance, cost, roads, contract administration, life cycle,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601042426
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601042426
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:305-313
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: O. A. K'Akumu
Author-X-Name-First: O. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: K'Akumu
Title: Construction statistics review for Kenya
Abstract:
Construction is a strategic industry in developing economies like Kenya.
In order for construction to ably perform this role, there is a need to
provide information on its various economic aspects including raw
materials, products, processes, finance and labour. Construction
statistics of Kenya have been evaluated in order to ascertain their
adequacy in terms of scope, portrait, reliability and responsiveness in
their coverage of the construction industry. Official statistics published
in the annual Statistical Abstract were reviewed according to these
adequacy criteria. The findings are that: the scope of construction
statistics is narrowly defined making the statistical portrait of the
sector incomplete; the statistics are also unreliable in terms of quality
and unresponsive to economical challenges of inflation, structural
adjustment policies and the decline of the public sector's role in the
construction industry. A participatory statistical governance framework is
recommended in order to improve the scope of statistics and alleviate the
attendant problems, such as the incomplete portrait, that come with the
narrow scope.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-326
Issue: 3
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction industry, national statistics, Kenya,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601139883
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601139883
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:3:p:315-326
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ranko Bon
Author-X-Name-First: Ranko
Author-X-Name-Last: Bon
Title: In response to the festschrift: a letter to Construction Management and Economics
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 341-343
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701313776
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701313776
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:341-343
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Brenda Yip
Author-X-Name-First: Brenda
Author-X-Name-Last: Yip
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Thomas Kvan
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Kvan
Title: The experience of burnout among future construction professionals: a cross-national study
Abstract:
A survey of undergraduate students in Australia and Hong Kong revealed
that a specially adapted version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (the
MBI-SS) possesses good internal consistency reliability among construction
students. A three-component model of student burnout, comprising emotional
exhaustion, cynicism and personal efficacy was supported in both the
Australian and Hong Kong samples. Burnout levels among construction
students were similar to those reported in previous non-construction
student samples. Both Australian and Hong Kong construction students
reported higher personal efficacy than non-construction students.
Australian students expressed considerably higher cynicism in relation to
their university education than the Hong Kong students. The three
dimensions of burnout were differentially correlated with work, study and
socio-economic variables. In Australia, student burnout was associated
with a perceived tension between paid work and study. In Hong Kong, the
demands of study and concern with the economy were significant correlates
of student burnout.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 345-357
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Burnout, work-study conflict, stress, higher education, culture,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600599145
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600599145
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:345-357
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ka-Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka-Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Xin Ning
Author-X-Name-First: Xin
Author-X-Name-Last: Ning
Author-Name: Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: The application of the ant colony optimization algorithm to the construction site layout planning problem
Abstract:
A good site layout is vital to ensure the safety of the working
environment, and for effective and efficient operations. Moreover, it
minimizes travel distance, decreases materials handling, and avoids the
obstruction of materials and plant movement. Based on studies in the
manufacturing industry, the cost of materials handling could be reduced by
20-60% if an appropriate facility layout is adopted. In designing a site
layout, a planner will first position the key facilities that influence
the method and sequence of construction, and then assign the remaining
facilities in the available space that is left over. This process is
similar to the positioning of facilities in the ant colony optimization
(ACO) algorithm. The general principle of the ACO algorithm is to assign
facilities to a location one by one, and the occupied locations are
deleted from the location scope in the next assignment. In the study, ACO
algorithm is employed to resolve the construction site layout planning
problem in a hypothetical medium-sized construction project. By applying
fuzzy reasoning and the entropy technique, the study calculates the
closeness relationship between facilities, in which the optimal site
layout is affected by the mutual interaction of facilities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 359-374
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: ACO algorithm, site layout, heuristic, closeness relationship,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600972870
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600972870
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:359-374
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Andrew R. J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew R. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Resolving the UK construction skills crisis: a critical perspective on the research and policy agenda
Abstract:
The ongoing skills crisis in the UK construction industry has constrained
the productive capacity of the industry. Past research and skills policies
have largely failed to develop an understanding of the realities of the
skills crisis at the grassroots level. Solutions offered by researchers
and policy makers have previously had little demonstrable impact in
addressing skills concerns. Much of these policies seems disconnected from
the realities experienced by employers and by those working in the
industry. A critical perspective on resolving the skills crisis is
offered. A set of mutually reinforcing research and policy initiatives are
proposed, including the need for researchers and policy makers to move
away from the conventionally national approach in addressing the skills
problem and to engage in genuine, joined-up thinking that meets the needs
of local regions. Furthermore, employers and employees are called to be
reflective practitioners in their participation of the skills development
agenda. Adopting these recommendations could overcome many shortcomings in
research and policy that have hitherto done little to combat the
construction skills crisis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 375-386
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Skills shortages, critical perspective, bottom-up approach, labour market, research,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600863152
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600863152
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:375-386
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bee-Lan Oo
Author-X-Name-First: Bee-Lan
Author-X-Name-Last: Oo
Author-Name: Derek S. Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: H. P. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: H. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Title: Applying a random coefficients logistic model to contractors' decision to bid
Abstract:
Contractors' decision to bid is dependent on many individual
characteristics, including some that are unobservable by their
competitors. There is natural heterogeneity across contractors in terms of
their (i) intrinsic bid/no-bid preferences; and (ii) responses to decision
to bid factors. This heterogeneity can be accounted for by applying a
random coefficients approach to multiple bid/no-bid responses through
logistic modelling. The bid/no-bid data were collected from managers of
large and medium-sized contractors in Hong Kong via a designed bidding
experiment. Two random coefficients logistic models are developed. Model 1
considers only two groups of decision to bid factors, namely market
environment factors (i.e. number of bidders, market conditions) and
project-specific factors (i.e. type and size of project). Model 2 extends
Model 1 by adding two subject factors (i.e. years of experience, firm
size) to study the effect of these individual factors on decision to bid.
The results show that there is significant unobserved heterogeneity across
contractors and that ignoring its effect results in a downward bias in the
parameter estimates of the decision to bid factors. In using this approach
contractors can better account for unobserved characteristics of their
competitors when formulating their competitive strategies in deciding to
bid.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-398
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Decision making, bidding, logistic modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600922552
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600922552
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:387-398
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kate Carter
Author-X-Name-First: Kate
Author-X-Name-Last: Carter
Author-Name: Chris Fortune
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Fortune
Title: Sustainable development policy perceptions and practice in the UK social housing sector
Abstract:
Massive investment has been allocated by the UK government to improve the
quality of its programme of rented social housing over the next five
years. Central to the achievement of this aim will be the incorporation of
sustainability features within the building projects associated with this
development programme. A sustainable development policy that addresses
environment, economy and society in equal measure is a new funding
requirement for social housing projects. There is a gap between policy and
practice in two areas: (i) the possession or otherwise of a sustainable
development (SD) policy; and (ii) the relative importance given to
differing features of sustainability. The perceptions and practice of
built environment professionals involved in the procurement of sustainable
housing schemes has been gauged regarding SD policy. Quantitative data
were collected from a randomized sample of 338 developing registered
social landlords (RSLs). The results show that only a minority of
respondent organizations have developed a sustainable development policy
and that environmental, economical and societal aspects of sustainability
are not given equal weighting. This does not reflect governmental policy
and suggests that sustainability is not being fully addressed in the
procurement of social housing projects. Further work is needed to evaluate
the links between sustainability and procurement approaches, and to model
the benefits of delivering sustainable housing projects for RSLs in the
UK.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 399-408
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Sustainability, housing development, policy, housing associations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600922578
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600922578
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:399-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Author-Name: Sudhir Misra
Author-X-Name-First: Sudhir
Author-X-Name-Last: Misra
Title: Ranking and classification of construction coordination activities in Indian projects
Abstract:
The efforts of contractors, consultants and owners need to be
appropriately coordinated in large civil engineering projects, whose
success can be defined in terms of compliance to schedule, economy in
cost, adherence to quality, and non-occurrence of disputes. Based on the
hypothesis that coordination activities affect the different dimensions of
project success differently, and that different stakeholders prioritize
the activities differently, a questionnaire survey covering senior Indian
construction professionals was carried out. For this a list of 59
coordination activities influencing successful completion of a
construction project was drawn up. These coordination activities were
ranked for the four success dimensions using statistical tools on the
responses received. 'Regular monitoring of critical path activities';
'monitoring the budget on all activities and taking corrective action';
'application of sound technical practices'; 'implementation of all
contractual commitments' are the most important coordination activities
corresponding to schedule, cost, quality and no-dispute performance
criteria, respectively. Results show that project coordination issues can
be addressed by attending to essentially the four broad groups of
coordination activities—resource handling, planning, team building
and contract implementation. Findings presented in the paper could
interest construction professionals and help them identify and concentrate
on important coordination activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-421
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Coordination, project performance, project management, questionnaire,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601083271
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:409-421
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jake Olsen
Author-X-Name-First: Jake
Author-X-Name-Last: Olsen
Author-Name: Zu-Hsu Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Zu-Hsu
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: Wenshen Pong
Author-X-Name-First: Wenshen
Author-X-Name-Last: Pong
Title: Optimal selection of concrete anchors for connection cost reduction
Abstract:
A proprietary product such as a post-installed concrete anchor has a
unique place in the engineering community that includes product design,
manufacturing, testing, evaluation and design for expected service
conditions. An economic model in a non-linear integer programming form is
proposed for selection of concrete anchors in order to minimize connection
cost. It is shown that the model can be easily incorporated with available
computer software packages and generalized when different parameters and
constraints are imposed to handle a variety of material selections. The
information from recent testing conducted by CEL Consulting for a major
engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor is used to
provide computational results. The method introduced here adds practical
value to these types of industrial problems because it considers points of
view from both structural engineers and project managers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 423-434
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Structural design, optimization, cost, computer-aided design, civil engineering, anchorages,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601156119
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601156119
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:4:p:423-434
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Kelly
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Kelly
Title: Making client values explicit in value management workshops
Abstract:
Value management is a project-focused process that makes explicit and
appraises the functional benefits of a product, process or service
consistent with a value system determined by the client. The value system
of the client necessarily requires a method for value setting using harder
performance variables than the commonly described facets of time, cost and
quality. Current value theory is critically appraised in the context of
current value management practice. The research proposition is that the
constituent parts of time, cost and quality can be made overt enabling a
client to express satisfaction in terms of a finite number of variables
enabling the explicit statement of client value within a value management
workshop. An action research study into the discovery of the component
parts of the client's value system at the early stages of construction
projects concludes that the variables are the nine non-correlated, high
order, discretionary performance variables of capital expenditure,
operational expenditure, time, esteem, environment, exchange,
politics/community, flexibility and comfort.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 435-442
Issue: 4
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Value management, client, function analysis, quality, value,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601071839
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601071839
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Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Franco K. T. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Franco K. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Explorations in specifying construction price forecast loss functions
Abstract:
Typical measures of goodness of construction price forecasts are the mean
and standard deviation, coefficient of variation and root mean square of
the deviations between forecasted and actual values. This can only be
valid, however, if the pain, or loss, incurred as a result of such
deviations is directly proportional to the square of their value. Two
approaches are used to test this. The first of these analyses 10 sets of
data collected from around the world, while the second explores the use of
a postal questionnaire survey to elicit construction industry client
disutilities. The results of the first analysis mitigate against any
general view that projects tend to be overestimated but do clearly suggest
asymmetric under/overestimates for the measures used. The second analysis
results in an approximated loss function although in ordinal terms only.
This also suggests that the functional form varies between building types,
with Commercial and Residential being the most asymmetric and Schools and
Industrial being less asymmetric. The work to date indicates that, for
construction price forecasting, the loss functions involved are
asymmetric, with the degree of asymmetry increasing according to the level
of commercial financial viability at stake.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 449-465
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Loss functions, construction, price, forecasts, forecasting, specification, estimate errors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600794571
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:449-465
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Author-Name: Kristian Widen
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Widen
Author-Name: Bengt Hansson
Author-X-Name-First: Bengt
Author-X-Name-Last: Hansson
Title: Diffusion characteristics of private sector financed innovation in Sweden
Abstract:
Although construction is considered to be slow in adopting new technology
and new processes, innovation, research and development are performed
routinely. Nonetheless, knowledge about what affects the diffusion of
research results—in the context of innovations—is
incomplete, limiting the effectiveness of procedures designed to evaluate
project proposals. The aim is to examine the factors that can influence
the diffusion of results, in this case from externally funded construction
innovation projects. A Fisher's exact test is performed on six concepts
derived from general innovation theory which are tested on 20 development
projects. The test is used to establish the significance of the six
concepts and their applicability to construction-related innovation. The
results reveal support for all six concepts, although only four of them
attract a high level of significance. External lateral and vertical
communication and external integration during the development phase are
shown to increase the chances of successful diffusion and should therefore
be assessed in project proposals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 467-475
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Innovation theory, construction innovation, development, diffusion, adoption,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601089104
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:467-475
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Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Author-Name: Chris Ian Goodier
Author-X-Name-First: Chris Ian
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodier
Author-Name: Robby Soetanto
Author-X-Name-First: Robby
Author-X-Name-Last: Soetanto
Author-Name: Simon Austin
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Author-Name: Andrew R. J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew R. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Andrew D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Title: The futures of construction: a critical review of construction future studies
Abstract:
Anticipating the future is increasingly being seen as a useful way to
align, direct and improve current organizational strategy. Several such
'future studies' have been produced which envision various construction
industry scenarios which result from technological and socio-economic
trends and influences. Thirteen construction-related future studies are
critically reviewed. Most studies fail to address the complexities and
uncertainties of both the present and the future, and fail to explore the
connections between global, local, construction-specific and more
widespread factors. The methodological approaches used in these studies do
not generate any significantly different advice or recommendations for the
industry than those emerging from the much larger canon of non-future
oriented construction research. As such, these reports are less about the
future than the present. If future studies are to make a worthwhile
contribution to construction, it is critical that they develop our
appreciation of the practical ability of stakeholders to influence some
aspects of the future and not others, and an awareness of the competing
agendas and the relative benefits and disadvantages of specific futures
within the construction sector. Only then can future studies provide
insights and help in preparing for the opportunities and threats the
future may bring.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 477-493
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Future studies, scenarios, construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600879117
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:477-493
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Author-Name: Iain Cameron
Author-X-Name-First: Iain
Author-X-Name-Last: Cameron
Author-Name: Roy Duff
Author-X-Name-First: Roy
Author-X-Name-Last: Duff
Title: A critical review of safety initiatives using goal setting and feedback
Abstract:
A review and synthesis of behavioural safety literature identified three
behaviour change perspectives: cognitive (goal setting); behaviourist
(behaviour modification); and eclectic (social learning). Bandura's social
learning theory usefully integrates the divergent philosophies of Locke's
goal setting and Luthan's behaviour modification. Social learning theory
assumes that behaviour is controlled by internal processes and
environmental stimuli, and so human action can be explained by the
combined effect of goals and feedback. The effectiveness of behavioural
safety has been demonstrated consistently, but, despite some success,
token reward programmes are controversial because they are close to
'paying for safety'. Researchers have overwhelmingly favoured initiatives
based on goals and performance feedback without material reward. Goals and
feedback produced good results in the varying cultures of North American,
European and Middle-East manufacturing environments, including mines,
chemical plants, laboratories, paper mills and shipyards. Goals and
feedback, aimed principally at operatives, have been used to improve
safety in Finnish, British and Hong Kong construction industries. It is
also clear that their effectiveness is strongly related to management
commitment; and that they must be supported by a developed safety
infrastructure. This suggests that goals should also embrace management
safety behaviours, in order to improve management commitment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-508
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Safety, organizational psychology, organizational behaviour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701275173
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:495-508
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Author-Name: Najat Abdallah Krima
Author-X-Name-First: Najat Abdallah
Author-X-Name-Last: Krima
Author-Name: Gerard Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: Ghassan F. Aouad
Author-X-Name-First: Ghassan F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Aouad
Author-Name: Zedan Hatush
Author-X-Name-First: Zedan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hatush
Title: Assessing the performance of Libyan supervising engineers
Abstract:
In the Libyan construction industry, the supervising engineer plays an
important role in checking time schedules and protecting the client from
delays and associated claims but there is no existing means of determining
their proficiency in performing this task. A list of factors identifying a
broad range of characteristics and skills necessary for the effective
supervision of construction projects is compiled. A field survey
comprising semi-structured interviews and questionnaires with 32 client
and contractor project managers experienced in the Libyan construction
sector is undertaken. The responses are used to develop a method of
assessing the effectiveness of supervising engineers in dealing with
construction project delays through a set of weighted criteria which are
scored according to currently perceived levels of performance. The results
indicate that Libyan supervising engineers are currently deficient in a
number of areas, particularly communication skills (33%); obtained
scientific, technical and legal knowledge (34%); knowledge in dealing with
claims (36%); previous experience (37%); knowledge and use of modern
techniques (37%). These factors are therefore a key focus for the
professional development needs of supervising engineers and the method of
assessment should assist clients in the process of selection and
appointment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-518
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Supervision, delay, performance evaluation, project control, Libya,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701247883
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:509-518
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Author-Name: James Robert Mason
Author-X-Name-First: James Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Mason
Title: The views and experiences of specialist contractors on partnering in the UK
Abstract:
The views and experiences of specialist contractors on partnering have to
date received insufficient attention in the UK where the focus has been
centred on the client-main contractor relationship. An investigation into
the position of specialists brings a new perspective on the national and
international debate about how further steps towards partnering the supply
chain can be achieved and whether they are desirable. Some of the findings
are positive such as the high level of understanding of partnering
concepts among specialists. There are examples of successful
collaborations and evidence of informal partnering being continued
downstream of the specialist contractors, often irrespective of whether
upstream partnering is occurring or not. Practical issues about
involvement and some cynicism about the aims of partnering are also
detectable. The discussion recommends that greater emphasis should be
placed on the role of the client and the competitive advantage available
to all through the proper use of partnering. Despite positive developments
little has changed in the 10 years since partnering was introduced to
improve the lot of the specialist contractor in terms of the levels of
disputes and the incidence of long-term collaboration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-527
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Collaboration, partnering, procurement, specialist contractors, subcontractors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701326828
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Author-Name: Ahmed M. Abdel Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed M. Abdel
Author-X-Name-Last: Aziz
Title: A survey of the payment mechanisms for transportation DBFO projects in British Columbia
Abstract:
In traditional project delivery systems, payment mechanisms provide
compensation for the work performed using construction capital payments.
In the alternative public-private partnership (PPP) systems, payment
mechanisms follow the selected PPP system. For example, the
build-operate-transfer system provides compensation based on project
demand using real-tolls usage payments; the design-build-finance-operate
(DBFO) system provides shadow-tolls usage payments; and the
performance-based DBFO system provides compensation based on contractor's
performance using service availability payments. Designing the payment
structure is an important task where several factors have to be
considered. This paper analyses the implementation of payment mechanisms
in a number of DBFO transportation projects in BC, Canada, in terms of
payment structure, payment types and characteristics, determination and
funding. The analysis provides insights for the design of payment
mechanisms. The analysis shows that more payment types are being used and
that the mechanisms are designed to achieve specific government
objectives. The analysis refers to a new 'hybrid' payment mechanism with
elements derived from the traditional and the PPP systems. The hybrid
system may have potential to minimize the overall project cost; however,
agencies have to be flexible in the delivery concepts as combinations of
payments for inputs, usage and services might have to be used.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 529-543
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Contracting, infrastructure, payment mechanism, project delivery, DBFO,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601161465
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Author-Name: Hsiuyu Tsai
Author-X-Name-First: Hsiuyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Tsai
Author-Name: Lungchang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Lungchang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Leekuo Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Leekuo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Title: A study on improving the ranking procedure for determining the most advantageous tender
Abstract:
According to the rules of the current Government Procurement Law in
Taiwan, the most advantageous tender is often determined based on the sum
of ranks among all tenders. This method is criticized, however, for its
violating the basic propositions of the measurement theory, being easily
biased by a few members in the evaluation Committee, and lack of distinct
bases to discriminate the evaluation differences among the Committee
members. The improved procedure suggested in this study, which is based on
fuzzy relations and adopts eigenvector method, conforms to the judgment
principles as well as the measurement theory. With analysis of a
procurement case, the results demonstrate that the improved procedure is
able to use quantitative methods to identify the evaluation differences
among individual Committee members. Therefore, this improved procedure may
enhance the quality in determining the most advantageous tender.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-554
Issue: 5
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Procurement, tendering, committee, ranking method, group decision,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601139925
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:5:p:545-554
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Author-Name: Kamardeen Imriyas
Author-X-Name-First: Kamardeen
Author-X-Name-Last: Imriyas
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Evelyn Ai-Lin Teo
Author-X-Name-First: Evelyn Ai-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Teo
Title: A framework for computing workers' compensation insurance premiums in construction
Abstract:
Singapore's general insurers have been recording detrimental loss ratios
in workers' compensation insurance business for construction projects.
This is due to the ineffectiveness in the risk assessment for
premium-rating and the failure of contractors to provide adequate safety
measures with an increased reliance on the workers' compensation
insurance. Based on the findings of an extensive literature review and an
interview questionnaire survey in the general insurance industry of
Singapore, a new premium-rating framework is proposed. The proposed new
premium-rating framework facilitates structured assessments of risks in
construction projects and market conditions to derive optimal premiums. It
also establishes an effective risk control strategy via a well-structured
incentive system for contractors and clients. The implementation of the
framework in the general insurance industry can facilitate accident
control in the construction industry and thereby minimize insurers'
financial risks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 563-584
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Insurance, operatives, injury, safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601110116
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:563-584
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Author-Name: Chris Goodier
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodier
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Future opportunities for offsite in the UK
Abstract:
Practitioners' views and opinions on the benefits and drawbacks of
offsite technologies in the UK construction industry can vary widely,
often depending upon their role or position. This research provides an
indication of the opinions of the different sectors within the industry,
including clients, designers, contractors and offsite suppliers, together
with some predictions for the future growth of the offsite sector in the
UK. A questionnaire survey of UK construction was conducted in order to
target the three main construction industry
sectors—suppliers/manufacturers, contractors and designers/clients.
More than 80 questionnaires were completed and returned. The vast majority
of practitioners within the industry are aware of the possibilities and
potential of offsite, and most also understand the advantages and
disadvantages of its use. The value of the UK offsite market was valued at
£2.2bn in 2004 and the demand for offsite is clearly increasing, but
it is not always clear in a project who is the main driver for its use.
For the offsite market to develop further however, two main problems need
to be addressed; the lack of transparent information for the decision
makers in the construction process, particularly that relating to
comparative costs, and the lack of available multi-skilled labour to work
in the offsite factories.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 585-595
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Future studies, offsite production, prefabrication, standardization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601071821
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:585-595
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Author-Name: David Joaquin Delgado-Hernandez
Author-X-Name-First: David Joaquin
Author-X-Name-Last: Delgado-Hernandez
Author-Name: Katherine Elizabeth Bampton
Author-X-Name-First: Katherine Elizabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Bampton
Author-Name: Elaine Aspinwall
Author-X-Name-First: Elaine
Author-X-Name-Last: Aspinwall
Title: Quality function deployment in construction
Abstract:
Quality function deployment (QFD) is a system for translating customer
requirements (government regulations, operating conditions and buyer
expectations) into suitable technical characteristics and ensuring that
important ones are prioritized in the design. The method has been
successfully applied in the manufacturing sector; however, its benefits
have not yet been fully realized in construction. The House of Quality
(HoQ), the most common 'tool' in QFD, has been used to identify and
analyse customer requirements for a new children's nursery. A focus group
was formed to gather these and a comparison made between an existing
nursery and two competitors to ensure that the new build was designed to
be at least as good as its competition. The results showed that QFD could
be applied in construction projects as a tool for considering the most
important customer requirements from the outset, with favourable
indicators of project success (on-time delivery and customer
satisfaction). In addition, the case study company considered it to be an
innovative approach and has used the results in its designs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 597-609
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Case study, quality function deployment, total quality management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601139917
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:597-609
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Author-Name: Caroline T. W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Caroline T. W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Fuzzy procurement selection model for construction projects
Abstract:
Recent developments in procurement selection systems are reviewed and
this reveals contradiction and conflict with previous work. A mathematical
rank model called fuzzy procurement selection model (FPSM) is proposed to
adapt to local circumstances. FPSM can be modified according to local
conditions or requirements and the modification methods are well
documented in previous work. The proposed model overcomes the continual
arguments on establishing a set of universal criteria on procurement
selection systems and provides a useful tool to cope with different
project/client's requirements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-618
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Procurement, selection criteria, fuzzy logic,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701209933
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:611-618
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Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Title: Pricing construction work: a marketing viewpoint
Abstract:
Recent work on pricing has shown that neoclassical microeconomic theory
(NCMT) is preferred to tendering theory and that implied by absorption, or
full-cost, pricing of construction work because of its explicit treatment
of market conditions, competitor behaviour and firm capacity levels.
Applying NCMT in practice, however, requires the consideration of pricing
from a marketing perspective. This paper examines the challenges involved
in terms of the two prevalent marketing paradigms—marketing mix and
relationship marketing—to pricing construction work generally, and
the traditional contracting (TC), design and construction (D&C) and
speculative building (SB) procurement systems in particular. In general,
the marketing mix (MM) approach, having the closest fit with NCMT, is most
aligned to current practice. However, conceptual and practical limitations
are identified. Relationship marketing (RM) is theoretically more
applicable, yet has been largely overlooked in practice due to the
transaction costs and investment involved. Nevertheless, some RM tools are
increasingly being adopted in response to demand criteria and clients'
needs for continuous improvement, offering a challenge to NCMT-related
pricing. In terms of specific procurement arrangements, SB would seem most
suited to the MM approach over the long term as it is closest to consumer
good markets. D&C on the other hand is considered to be the most price
sensitive to demand factors, with SB the least because of its ability to
control resources, specifically land and financial packages, while TC is
most suited to developing RM practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 619-630
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Marketing, marketing mix, pricing policies, relationship marketing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701280710
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:619-630
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Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Author-Name: Robert Pearl
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Pearl
Author-Name: Peter J. Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Ethical behaviour in the South African construction industry
Abstract:
An opinion survey of South African architects, quantity surveyors,
engineers and contractors regarding ethical behaviour within the
construction industry reveals that South African contractors seem to
possess a reputation for unethical conduct. The range of problems
encountered includes collusion, bribery, negligence, fraud, dishonesty and
unfair practices. While bribery in the form of payments and gifts is
prevalent, fraud does not appear to be as serious a problem. Most
construction professionals believe that the industry suffers from unfair
tendering practices, as well as over-claiming and/or withholding payment
for service delivery. Negligence arises mainly from poor documentation and
poor workmanship. Incidents of collusive tendering encompass cover pricing
and bid cutting by contractors, while the primary form of fraudulent
behaviour is deceit and misinformation. The Organisation for Economic
Co-operation and Development's bribery codes conditions could be used to
counter unethical behaviour in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 631-648
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Corruption, codes of conduct, professional ethics, business ethics, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701225707
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Author-Name: Stuart D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Anita M. M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Theory and practice in value management: a reply to Ellis et al. (2005)
Abstract:
The constructivist model of 'soft' value management (VM) is contrasted
with the VM discourse appropriated by cost consultants who operate from
within UK quantity surveying (QS) practices. The enactment of VM by cost
consultants is shaped by the institutional context within which they
operate and is not necessarily representative of VM practice per se.
Opportunities to perform VM during the formative stages of design are
further constrained by the positivistic rhetoric that such practitioners
use to conceptualize and promote their services. The complex interplay
between VM theory and practice is highlighted and analysed from a
non-deterministic perspective. Codified models of 'best practice' are seen
to be socially constructed and legitimized through human interaction in
the context of interorganizational networks. Published methodologies are
seen to inform practice in only a loose and indirect manner, with
extensive scope for localized improvization. New insights into the
relationship between VM theory and practice are derived from the
dramaturgical metaphor. The social reality of VM is seen to be constituted
through scripts and performances, both of which are continuously contested
across organizational arenas. It is concluded that VM defies universal
definition and is conceptualized and enacted differently across different
localized contexts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 649-659
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Diffusion, best practice, value management, methodological decay, dramaturgical metaphor,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601161473
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:649-659
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Author-Name: Fredrik Malmberg
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Malmberg
Title: Introduction of a new form of quote evaluation: a case study in southern Sweden
Abstract:
The effects of changing from traditional tendering methods to an
alternative form of quote evaluation were tested in a case study within
the southern Swedish construction market. The project studied replacing
the outer surface of the roof of a multiple-dwelling building 2000m2 in
area. Procurement was carried out in two steps. The first step consisted
of traditional tendering methods in which quotations were obtained by
asking different contractors to bid. In the second step, formal tender
documents were sent by mail to the same contractors. These documents
included an alternative form of quote evaluation requiring that references
to be provided for similar work, as well as for issues of environmental
control, working environment, quality control and the material's life
cycle. This second step was found to create additional value for the
client and to improve competition. It was also observed that although
there was a communication threshold to overcome, this segment of the
construction market appeared ready to accept alternative methods for
evaluating quotes. It was regarded as important to make the criteria
readily understandable and measurable and strive towards a standardized
template form of quote evaluation to reflect the goals of both the project
and the clients.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 661-669
Issue: 6
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Procurement, quote evaluation, case study, southern Sweden, renovation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701288051
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701288051
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:6:p:661-669
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Edwin H. W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Edwin H. W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: John Uff Cbe Qc
Author-X-Name-First: John Uff Cbe
Author-X-Name-Last: Qc
Title: Guest Editorial
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 673-675
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701563354
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701563354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:673-675
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham Ive
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Ive
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: The principle of inconsistent trinity in the selection of procurement systems
Abstract:
This paper examines the economic characteristics of construction
procurement systems partially in terms of transaction cost economics and
partly those of project management. It proposes the theoretical principle
of an inconsistent trinity, according to which, in selecting a procurement
system, the client will inevitably face a trade-off between the
procurement system best able to deliver: (1) fastest completion of the
project (and therefore higher discounted present value of revenue from the
project); (2) least vulnerability when making changes (lower transaction
hold-up costs arising from temporal or process specificity); as well as
(3) least vulnerability to non-performance (lower transaction measurement
costs from greater visibility to third parties for ordering of disputes).
The model provides a potentially testable contribution to a transaction
cost theory of construction procurement. It also has two implications: (1)
the three main family types of procurement systems are held to be
intrinsically different in economic terms, so selection of procurement
system does matter; (2) no system can enjoy absolute advantage over
others, so the proposed strategy of procurement system selection is to
align the characteristics of procurement systems with attributes of
projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 677-690
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Transaction costs, hold-up, measurement costs, opportunism, temporal specificity, procurement system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601164089
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601164089
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:677-690
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Gruneberg
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gruneberg
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Author-Name: Debbie Ancell
Author-X-Name-First: Debbie
Author-X-Name-Last: Ancell
Title: Risk under performance-based contracting in the UK construction sector
Abstract:
As a method of procuring the services of the built environment,
performance-based contracting (PBC) seeks to link the building supplier to
longer term commitments than has traditionally been the case in the
construction sector. By rewarding the building producer according to the
way that building or structure delivers the users' requirements, rather
than according to a list of assembled parts, a number of additional risks
are taken by contractors, including fitness for purpose, costs and
briefing. The extent to which contractors recognize these risks and their
methods of dealing with them vary considerably and are influenced by their
attitudes towards risk. As the risks associated with PBC are seen as
large, uninsurable, and vulnerable to changing client requirements, the
majority of respondents would reject the use of PBC as a method of
contracting. Nevertheless, PBC may be used under particular conditions,
where rewards are deemed sufficient to compensate for the additional risk
to the contractor of undertaking work on the basis of a stream of payments
paid over the life of a structure depending on the satisfactory
performance of the building or as part of a private finance initiative.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 691-699
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Performance-based contracting, risk management, private finance initiative,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601164097
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601164097
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:691-699
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Donohoe
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Donohoe
Author-Name: Lynn Brooks
Author-X-Name-First: Lynn
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooks
Title: Reflections on construction management procurement following Great Eastern Hotel Company v. John Laing
Abstract:
Construction management as a procurement method has been used
increasingly in the UK construction industry, particularly for complex,
multidisciplinary project work. Great Eastern Hotel v. John Laing (2005)
(the 'GEH' case) is the first case to be decided by the courts in England
in respect of works completed under a construction management agreement
(CMA) and, as such, sets a precedent for the industry. As a precedent,
this judgment has implications for construction management as a form of
procurement and for construction management as a profession. The
implications arising from the decision in this case pose problems for the
future construction industry, which are considered here. The consequences
arising from this decision for the profession of construction management
and the expected levels of competency of individual construction managers
are considered. This judgment defines a legal benchmark for construction
management which hitherto did not exist. Construction management as a form
of procurement has been viewed as placing the highest proportion of risk
with the client in the event of problems. The construction management
company, having no direct contractual link with any of the subcontractors,
was seen as carrying a relatively low level of risk. Following the
decision in GEH, the statement that a construction management company
carries a low level of risk has to be revised. In addition, it is
submitted that the GEH judgment will act as a driver for change in the
perception of construction management and its future as a method of
procurement. Questions are also posed regarding the level of competence of
the construction manager post GEH.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 701-708
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction management, procurement, liability, negligence,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601139909
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601139909
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:701-708
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Buckingham
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Buckingham
Title: International process plant contracts for use on other performance-based projects
Abstract:
Selecting a contract that is appropriate for the construction work being
carried out is a crucial part of the construction management process.
Process plants are performance based, and the industry has developed its
own conditions of contract to deal with the particular features and
demands of its projects. This paper looks at the basic differences between
process plants and traditional building projects, and discusses how these
differences influence the conditions of contract. In addition to its suite
of English law contracts, the IChemE has recently launched an
international lump sum contract that retains the same basic contracting
philosophy but is suitable for use on international projects. This paper
analyses some of the key changes introduced into this international
contract, and suggests that it is suitable for use on a wide range of
performance-based projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 709-713
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Process, contracts, international, performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701499591
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701499591
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:709-713
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Alain Dagenais
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel Alain
Author-X-Name-Last: Dagenais
Title: Introduction to good faith in construction contracts
Abstract:
Advocating good faith as a key element of construction contracts under a
'new contract morality', as it has been developed mainly in Canada, this
paper presents the advantages of an open exchange of information, of an
adequate way of treating the unavoidable contingencies and of a global
approach of collaboration between all participants on a construction
project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 715-721
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction law, contract strategy, collaboration, dispute resolution, good faith, information, morality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701393000
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701393000
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:715-721
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Said Boukendour
Author-X-Name-First: Said
Author-X-Name-Last: Boukendour
Title: Preventing post-contractual opportunism by an option to switch from one contract to another
Abstract:
This article proposes a pre-emptive mechanism that prevents a
self-interested contractor from taking benefits resulting from any
post-contractual opportunism. The mechanism is based on an option to
switch from one contract to another. The client and the contractor must
simultaneously enter into two (or more) contracts with an option given to
the client to decide which one will apply once the work has been
completed. The client's advantage lies in the power of preventing the
contractor's opportunistic behaviour. The contractor's advantage lies in
the possibility to demonstrate good faith.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 723-727
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Contract incompleteness, opportunism, residual rights, transaction costs, construction contracts, switching option,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701392994
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701392994
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:723-727
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raufdeen Rameezdeen
Author-X-Name-First: Raufdeen
Author-X-Name-Last: Rameezdeen
Author-Name: Chamil Rajapakse
Author-X-Name-First: Chamil
Author-X-Name-Last: Rajapakse
Title: Contract interpretation: the impact of readability
Abstract:
The standard form of contract plays a significant role in a construction
project as it communicates the procedures to be adopted in executing the
project including the determination of the rights and obligations of
contracting parties. Hence, an acceptable degree of commonality in
interpretation of this document by different contracting parties is a
prerequisite for the smooth functioning of a construction project. The aim
of this research is to ascertain whether there is a relationship between
readability of contract clauses and their interpretation. Readability is
concerned with the complexity of words and sentences of text and it is
commonly assessed by readability formulas. The survey undertaken for this
research measured the ability of construction contract clauses having
different readability values to convey a common understanding to all
categories of respondents in terms of the degree to which risk was
apportioned between the client and the contractor. The study reveals that
there is a relationship between readability and contract interpretation.
When the readability of the contract document is high, there found to be a
high degree of commonality in interpretation of the document by different
readers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 729-737
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Standard form of contract, contract clauses, readability, risk, interpretation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601099228
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601099228
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:729-737
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Wilson Twyford
Author-X-Name-First: John Wilson
Author-X-Name-Last: Twyford
Title: Additional payments under construction contracts
Abstract:
Parties to a construction contract who wish to increase the sum payable
under the contract face legal problems. Such transactions are manifest in
a promise by the principal or head contractor to pay more. According to
traditional contract theory, a promise is not enforceable unless supported
by consideration, that is, the party making the promise receives something
tangible in return. The courts have attempted to define circumstances
where promises that do not strictly comply with this requirement would be
enforceable. The issue arose in the English Court of Appeal decision of
Williams v. Roffey Bros & Nicholls; the solution, there proposed, depended
on the application of subjective tests that are unworkable in the
construction industry. Equally, the High Court of Australia in Walton
Stores v. Maher proposed a solution that leaves the parties in doubt as to
their position. The law as it presently stands is reviewed and the
recommendation made that the original contract be replaced by one
confirming the new price. Otherwise the consideration requirement needs to
be satisfied by a new promise in exchange for the promised additional
payment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-745
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Contracts, variations, consideration, estoppel, economic duress,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701429804
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701429804
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:739-745
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Ward
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Ward
Author-Name: William Sher
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Sher
Author-Name: Rod Gameson
Author-X-Name-First: Rod
Author-X-Name-Last: Gameson
Author-Name: Guillermo Aranda-Mena
Author-X-Name-First: Guillermo
Author-X-Name-Last: Aranda-Mena
Title: Innovative protocols and technologies as a means of complying with the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payments Act 1999 (NSW) Australia
Abstract:
The Building and Construction Industry Security of Payments Act
1999—updated 27 November 2003, New South Wales, Australia provides
a statutory framework which governs compulsory progress payments for those
who undertake works or provide goods or services as part of a construction
contract. Respondents to the process are being disadvantaged as a result
of complying with the Act. Claimants are purported to be taking months to
prepare detailed and comprehensive payment claims, prior to serving them
on the respondents, who, under the Act, have limited time to compile a
detailed payment schedule in response. This research investigates the use
of two recent innovations that could assist in the administration of the
process. The first is the Society of Construction Law's Delay and
Disruption Protocol's model clauses, and the second is the use of
web-based technology as a project administrative tool. A literature search
was carried out, together with semi-structured qualitative interviews, to
determine opinions of their use and effectiveness. Results indicate a
recognition and appreciation of the likely benefits of transparency,
efficiency and improved cost effectiveness of the project administrative
processes, possibly resulting in potential savings and improved cost
recovery opportunities, with the potential to reduce and/or avoid
disputes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 747-763
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Payment, contract administration, documentation, claims,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601042434
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601042434
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:747-763
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thomas Uher
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Uher
Author-Name: Michael Brand
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Brand
Title: A comparative analysis of the operation of 'compulsory rapid adjudication' in New South Wales and New Zealand
Abstract:
The purpose of this research was to make a comparative analysis of the
operation of the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment
Act 1999 (NSW) (the NSW Act) and the Construction Contracts Act 2002 (NZ)
(the NZ Act). Data were extracted from the NSW and NZ Acts, the NSW
Department of Commerce and from the published books, reports and articles.
Under the NSW Act, which is only concerned with payment claim disputes,
adjudicators' jurisdiction is narrow and timelines for the submission of
documents and for making an adjudication determination are short.
Consequently, payment claim disputes are resolved rapidly and
economically. The NZ Act on the other hand addresses all kinds of
disputes. The jurisdiction of adjudicators is broad and the period for
making an adjudication determination is about twice as long as in NSW. One
of the strengths of the NSW Act is the ability to enter judgment for an
adjudicated amount by simply filing an adjudication certificate in a
court. One of the strengths of the NZ Act is in allowing the claimant to
join the owner of a construction site in an adjudication; the adjudicator
has a power to determine that the owner, who is an associate of the
respondent, is jointly and severally liable with the respondent for the
debt, and can approve of a charging order over the construction site owned
by the owner.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 765-775
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Australia, construction claims, New Zealand, statutory adjudication,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601047748
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601047748
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:765-775
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Gaitskell
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Gaitskell
Title: International statutory adjudication: its development and impact
Abstract:
This paper sets out an overview of the development of statutory
adjudication, noting its origin in the UK and comparing adjudication in
different jurisdictions, including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong
Kong and South Africa. Through appraisal of the statistics of case
workload referred to different dispute resolution methods, this paper
considers the impact this procedure has had upon other dispute resolution
processes. From the UK experience, the adoption of a statutory
adjudication scheme by any jurisdiction is likely to result in significant
reductions in most other forms of dispute resolution.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-784
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Adjudication, dispute resolution, arbitration, construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701499609
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701499609
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:777-784
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Nissen Qc
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander Nissen
Author-X-Name-Last: Qc
Title: Expert evidence: problems and safeguards
Abstract:
This paper examines the role of expert evidence and expert witnesses in
the resolution of construction disputes. The history of experts in court
is traced through the cases, including guidelines as to the proper conduct
of experts. The status and potential liability of an expert is then
considered, particularly in the context of the recent Court of Appeal in
Meadow v. General Medical Council [2007] 1 All ER 1. The role of an expert
as advocate is considered and conclusions drawn as to the key problems
which arise.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 785-790
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Expert evidence, construction dispute, witness, negligence,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701499583
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701499583
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:785-790
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Issaka Ndekugri
Author-X-Name-First: Issaka
Author-X-Name-Last: Ndekugri
Author-Name: Nigel Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Nigel
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Title: The engineer under FIDIC's conditions of contract for construction
Abstract:
FIDIC has over the years produced standard forms of contracts for the
international procurement of projects. A source of continuing criticism of
its Red Book concerns the duality in the traditional role of the engineer
as the employer's agent and as an independent third party holding the
balance fairly between the employer and the contractor. In response to
this and other criticisms FIDIC produced a replacement for it in 1999. The
role of the engineer under the new Red Book is critically examined in the
light of relevant case law, expert commentaries and feedback from two
multidisciplinary workshops with international participation. The
examination identified three major changes: (1) a duty to act impartially
has been replaced by a duty to make fair determination of certain matters;
(2) it is open to parties to allow greater control of the engineer by the
employer by stating in the appropriate part of the contract powers the
engineer must not exercise without the employer's approval; (3) there is
provision for a Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB) to which disputes may be
referred. Although the duality has not been eliminated completely, the
contract is structured flexibly enough to support those who wish to
contract on the basis of the engineer acting solely as the agent of the
employer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 791-799
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Contract, Dispute Adjudication Board, engineer, FIDIC,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701411216
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701411216
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:791-799
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jiayuan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Jiayuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Jian Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Liyuan Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Liyuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Study on the professional liability insurance system of the supervision engineer in China
Abstract:
Although the supervision system has been adopted in the construction
industry for more than 10 years in China, a professional liability
insurance system for the supervision engineer has yet to be established.
The implementation of a professional liability insurance for the
supervision engineer in China is suggested. The range of issues cover the
professional liabilities and typical professional faults of the
supervision engineer, the scope of the insurance liability, exclusions,
insurance types and the assured. The three premium-rating methods are
presented. A five-thrust implementation strategy for professional
liability insurance for the supervision engineer is offered in order to
overcome the main obstacles. The data applied for the analysis in the
study were collected from a comprehensive questionnaire survey to the
Shenzhen-based supervision firms. Selected interviews were conducted to
supplement the survey data. This study provides a valuable reference for
further research in examining project supervision practices in other
construction industries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 801-810
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Insurance, liability, professional, supervision engineer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601139891
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601139891
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:801-810
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ronald William Craig
Author-X-Name-First: Ronald William
Author-X-Name-Last: Craig
Author-Name: Wilson C. Barnes
Author-X-Name-First: Wilson C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Barnes
Title: Professional employees' exposure to risk of negligence claims from the client
Abstract:
Construction professionals owe duties of care and skill to clients in
both contract and tort. Usually the principal or the corporate employer
takes responsibility for employees' negligence under the principle of
vicarious liability. But analysis of court judgments from England, New
Zealand, Hong Kong and Florida (USA) reveals circumstances in which
professional employees might attract personal liability to the firm's
client, despite an apparent lack of contractual or tortious relationship
with that client. Professional employees of unincorporated businesses
might be more exposed to this risk than employees of incorporated
businesses. Factors causing professional employees to be uninsured include
lack of contractual privity between client and employee and absence of
compelling rules or statutes. Professional employees seem unaware of these
risks. Increased awareness of these risks could encourage employees to
take out insurance but clients will resist paying twice to insure the
negligence of both principal and employee.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 811-819
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction law, contract law, negligence, liability, professional,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190600987712
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190600987712
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:811-819
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Shiers
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Shiers
Author-Name: Anthony Lavers
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavers
Author-Name: Miles Keeping
Author-X-Name-First: Miles
Author-X-Name-Last: Keeping
Title: Indicators of the impact of environmental factors on UK construction law: developments in the new millennium
Abstract:
In examining the impact of environmental issues on construction law,
recent construction-related legislation and litigation can be seen as
indicators of the growing importance of specific property-related
environmental issues. Through reference to relevant literature and law
reports, several recent legal developments can be identified relating to
energy production and consumption, water inundation, the physical
qualities of buildings, excluded materials, noise and disability
discrimination and, finally, waste disposal and contamination. Recent law
relating to energy consumption in buildings is evidence of the
ever-widening set of legal obligations regarding energy efficiency.
Similarly, recent litigation relating to nuclear waste and wind farms may
be more typical of future energy cases than those relating to traditional
fossil fuel production processes. Noise represents another form of
environmental pollution and has been seen in a number of cases. The impact
of the built environment on people with disabilities is now recognized in
Part M of the Building Regulations which places additional disabled access
requirements on all building owners, landlords, employers and service
providers. Property professionals, local authorities and statutory
authorities need, more than ever before, to be aware of their current
legal obligations while remaining constrained by resource and financial
management regulation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 821-829
Issue: 7
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction law, liability, environment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601145278
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601145278
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:7:p:821-829
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li-Chung Chao
Author-X-Name-First: Li-Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Chao
Author-Name: Chang-Nan Liou
Author-X-Name-First: Chang-Nan
Author-X-Name-Last: Liou
Title: Risk-minimizing approach to bid-cutting limit determination
Abstract:
Intense price competition is quite common in the construction industry.
In many markets, contractors have to cut their bids to compete, giving
priority to winning enough contracts to sustain normal operation, and it
is common to see a winning bid close to the expected project cost. While
cutting bids not only gives up profits but also undoubtedly increases the
risk of making a loss, the behaviour of contractors in intense competition
is difficult to explain by existing academic bidding models. An approach
to determining the lower limit of the bid for a project is proposed based
on minimization of the overall loss risk defined by a probabilistic model.
The approach can be used to prevent arbitrary over-cuts in final bid
decision where price competition is intense. Factors influencing the
suggested bid-cutting limit for a project are analysed. An illustrative
example using real case data is provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 835-843
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Bidding, estimating, probability, Monte Carlo simulation, risk analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701393018
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701393018
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:835-843
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Graham Ive
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Ive
Title: Reversal of bargaining power in construction projects: meaning, existence and implications
Abstract:
Reversal of bargaining power arising from asset specificity is important
for the understanding of hold-up problems. Various types of asset
specificity have been identified in different transaction contexts, but a
previously unidentified or unnamed type is developed here: process
specificity. Numerous widely used financial and contractual preventive
measures in construction practice can be justified as responses to this
problem of process specificity. These include bonds and retentions.
However, these measures have limitations. Specifically, the client-led
change orders cannot be completely averted and when they occur, the
pricing of additional work largely relies on negotiation, implying that
bargaining power determines the result. Consequently, the hold-up problem
remains a managerial issue. To mitigate this problem, clients should
choose a procurement system by aligning project attributes with the
procurement system characteristics.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 845-855
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Bargaining power, transaction cost, opportunism, asset specificity, procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601164113
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601164113
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:845-855
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ingeborg Knauseder
Author-X-Name-First: Ingeborg
Author-X-Name-Last: Knauseder
Author-Name: Per-Erik Josephson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Josephson
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: Learning approaches for housing, service and infrastructure project organizations
Abstract:
Capturing and sharing experiences that may be applicable in several
projects is generally recognized as a way of enhancing the performance of
construction projects. Several studies have reported difficulties in
applying learning approaches that could be applicable for a wide range of
projects. The learning behaviour in three types of construction project:
housing, service and infrastructure, is examined by the means of a
questionnaire study including 51 construction projects and more than 800
responses from clients, designers, contractors' managers, contractors'
workers and subcontractors. The effects of leadership, openness and
influence are considered. Based on a factor analysis, three approaches to
learning were identified: organizing for learning, experimenting and
networking. While housing project organizations do not demonstrate any
specific preferences, service project organizations show a focus on
networking and infrastructure project organizations show the highest
interest in experimenting. On the basis of these results it can be
concluded that learning approaches are dependent on the type of project.
Thus adopting different learning approaches for different types of
construction project seems to be a more relevant strategy than
implementing a 'one size fits all' learning approach for all construction
project organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 857-867
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Organizational learning, questionnaire, leadership,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190601164121
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190601164121
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:857-867
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Iain Cameron
Author-X-Name-First: Iain
Author-X-Name-Last: Cameron
Author-Name: Roy Duff
Author-X-Name-First: Roy
Author-X-Name-Last: Duff
Title: Use of performance measurement and goal setting to improve construction managers' focus on health and safety
Abstract:
Previous attempts to use goal setting and feedback to improve safety
behaviour on construction sites have focused on operatives, but recognized
management commitment as essential for success. This research addressed
two problems: validly and reliably measuring the safety performance of
construction managers; and motivating managers to improve their safety
performance. A measure of management safety performance was developed,
covering seven items: induction training; toolbox talk training; safety
committees; subcontractor safety; maintenance of safety records; safety
manager actions and safety consideration (interaction, communication and
worker engagement). This was used on a case study site to improve
motivation of the management team. During an intervention, using monthly
feedback and goal-setting techniques, their performance improved from 49%
to 82% of maximum expected performance. The results demonstrate that a
valid and reliable measure of management safety performance is practicable
and support the proposition that goal setting can improve management
safety performance in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 869-881
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Behavioural safety, feedback, goal setting, organizational behaviour, organizational psychology, safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701268848
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701268848
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:869-881
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Hudak
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Hudak
Author-Name: Mark Maxwell
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Maxwell
Title: A macro approach to estimating correlated random variables in engineering production projects
Abstract:
An important consideration in cost risk analysis is the amount of
correlation between different cost elements. If correlation is ignored,
both the probability and magnitude of costs overruns could be
significantly underestimated. The two major difficulties in implementing
correlation addressed are estimating correlation coefficients and
providing an accurate theoretical risk analysis approach to account for
these correlations. Since detailed correlation data are often difficult or
impossible to obtain, an intuitive approach is proposed, which estimates
correlations for cost estimates relative to several underlying macro
factors. The correlation matrix obtained by this method is positive
semi-definite and a case study based upon three macro factors is given.
The cost risk distributions are computed and compared using the beta fit
model and two other more complicated models. This study shows negligible
differences in cost risk dollars when computed by the various models. This
method of using macro factors to estimate correlation coefficients can
account for significant additional cost risk dollars while not requiring
external correlation data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 883-892
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Cost analysis, risk analysis, correlation, simulation, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701411224
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701411224
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:883-892
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Ossi Pesamaa
Author-X-Name-First: Ossi
Author-X-Name-Last: Pesamaa
Title: Modelling procurement effects on cooperation
Abstract:
Cooperative arrangements, such as partnering, have received increased
interest in recent years. Several studies show however that cooperative
relationships are not easily achieved in construction. Implementation of
cooperative relationships requires changes in several elements of the
traditional procurement procedures. The purpose of this paper is therefore
to propose and test a sequential model regarding clients' cooperative
procurement procedures. We especially ask: what elements in clients'
procurement procedures facilitate the establishment of cooperation and
trust in their relationships with contractors? The model was tested
through structural equation modelling. The empirical data required for the
test were collected through a survey responded to by 87 Swedish
professional construction clients. The empirical results show that
cooperative procurement procedures are triggered by clients' wish to
involve contractors early in specification, which has a simultaneous
effect on procedures regarding bid invitation and compensation.
Furthermore, these simultaneous effects breed a certain kind of partner
selection based on task-related attributes, which also has a direct
positive effect on trust and above all on cooperation in client-contractor
relationships. Besides these implications from the model, the improvement
of measurements for future modelling is discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 893-901
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Cooperation, partnering, procurement, SEM,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701468844
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701468844
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:893-901
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Title: Key considerations for delivering best value in the small building works portfolio of large client organizations
Abstract:
Many large organizations own and occupy extensive, complex and varied
property estates, which are essential to their business. Continued
reliance on these resources often requires considerable annual expenditure
on maintenance, alterations, refurbishment and small-scale new building
works. Such activities form the category small building works, a
sub-sector of the UK construction industry which currently approximates to
£11 billion, or 20% of annual total output. The delivery of best
value in the management of small building works, in the context of an
organization with a large property portfolio, is important to the
business. Studies into small building works conducted over the past 15
years have been synthesized and augmented to highlight the key
considerations for ensuring best value in small building works. The
delivery of best value requires a comprehensive understanding of the
proposed works themselves and then the potential impact of those works
upon the property portfolio, and all within the context of the
organization's business activities. Clients need to establish first, an
effective procurement approach and second, an effective operational
approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 903-909
Issue: 8
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Procurement, property estates, operations, small building works, workload management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701385212
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701385212
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:8:p:903-909
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Yoki Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Yoki
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Payment and audit mechanisms for non private-funded PPP-based infrastructure maintenance projects
Abstract:
The introduction of a non private-funded public-private partnerships
(PPP) approach to the maintenance and operation of infrastructure
facilities necessitates an equitable performance standard, a sensible
penalty mechanism and a credible auditing system. Yet, with limited
research on this type of scheme, it is not clear whether the payment and
audit mechanisms can adequately gauge the performance of private partners
and truly reflect the quality of service provided in their payment. The
question is whether the reliability of the payment reduction and auditing
mechanisms pertinent to the non-private funded PPP infrastructure
maintenance can be systematically verified. With reference to a case study
in Hong Kong, field data have been collected and tested according to the
sensitivity analysis and level of confidence. The results indicate that
the level of payment reduction due to poor performance is fair and the
audit frequency is adequate to reflect the overall performance of the
service provider. The approaches adopted in this research should provide
an objective basis for public and private partners to formulate a mutually
acceptable and effective mechanism for non private-funded PPP
infrastructure maintenance contracts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 915-923
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Public-private partnerships, infrastructure facilities, maintenance, performance-based payment, auditing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701544396
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701544396
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:915-923
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dussadee Satirasetthavee
Author-X-Name-First: Dussadee
Author-X-Name-Last: Satirasetthavee
Author-Name: Pannapa Herabat
Author-X-Name-First: Pannapa
Author-X-Name-Last: Herabat
Title: Integration of the component of financial statement in highway maintenance planning
Abstract:
Highway agencies attempt to apply efficient accounting systems to help
improve the transparency of their budget allocation and their overall
performance. The accrual accounting system has been adopted to substitute
the cash accounting system by many central governments around the world.
The system reports transactions of economic value changes rather than when
cash movements are made. The asset value and its depreciation determined
by the accrual accounting system illustrate the total amount of economic
value owned by an agency and the consumption of the future economic
benefits for an asset. The age-based depreciation approach, which is a
traditional approach, is applied to determine the depreciation of an asset
based on the defined useful life and the straight-line depreciation
method. The advantage of this approach is its simplicity and its ability
to support the long-term asset management system. The condition-based
depreciation is recommended as an alternative approach since the actual
condition of an asset can reflect its depreciation. The depreciation of an
asset based on the condition-based approach is suitable for single-year
maintenance planning since the executives cannot estimate the required
budget for replacing or preserving of an asset in the long-term period.
This research focuses on developing the new depreciation approach by
integrating the age-based and the condition-based depreciation approaches
in order to strategically plan long-term highway maintenance and to enable
the actual condition of an asset to be reflected.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 925-936
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Asset management, accountability, maintenance, highway,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701280702
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701280702
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:925-936
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhikun Ding
Author-X-Name-First: Zhikun
Author-X-Name-Last: Ding
Author-Name: Fungfai Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Fungfai
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Qiying Cai
Author-X-Name-First: Qiying
Author-X-Name-Last: Cai
Title: Personal constructs affecting interpersonal trust and willingness to share knowledge between architects in project design teams
Abstract:
Architectural design is a knowledge-intensive activity. However,
architects are not always willing to share their knowledge with their team
members. Based on a literature review and in-depth interviews, this
research identifies and validates factors as well as the underlying
personal constructs that influence architects' interpersonal trust and
willingness to share their knowledge in project design teams in China. The
results of triangulation data analysis show that there are four factors
affecting both interpersonal trust and willingness to share knowledge,
i.e. 'team member's attitude towards work', 'team member's ability with
regard to work', 'team member's personality' and 'team member's social
interaction'. Contrary to previous findings, interpersonal trust is not
identified as an individual factor influencing willingness to share
knowledge. The personal constructs underlying each factor e.g. 'hard
working-lazy when working', etc. are summarized and can be employed as
measurement scales in designing future quantitative research, i.e. the
explanatory study. Moreover, the identified personal constructs provide
directions for the management in architectural design institutes to
encourage knowledge sharing behaviour among architects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 937-950
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Knowledge management, interpersonal trust, personal construct theory, knowledge sharing, full grid technique,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701468828
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701468828
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:937-950
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kwabena Asomanin Anaman
Author-X-Name-First: Kwabena Asomanin
Author-X-Name-Last: Anaman
Author-Name: Charity Osei-Amponsah
Author-X-Name-First: Charity
Author-X-Name-Last: Osei-Amponsah
Title: Analysis of the causality links between the growth of the construction industry and the growth of the macro-economy in Ghana
Abstract:
A vibrant construction industry in a developing country, that mobilizes
human and local material resources in the development and maintenance of
buildings, housing and physical infrastructure, is an important means to
promote increased local employment and accelerate economic growth. Ghana,
a country of about 22 million people, currently has one of the fastest
growing economies in West Africa. The Government of Ghana (GOG) has
recently set a target of annual economic growth rate of 8% and above, up
from annual growth rates of 5-6% in the past five years (2001-05). It
intends to use the agricultural sector as the major vehicle for achieving
such high growth rates in order for the country to reach the status of a
middle income country by 2015. Surprisingly, the construction industry was
left out from the list of major growth drivers of the economy. We contend
that with the construction industry currently making up the third largest
sector of the economy, special attention should be given to this industry
as one of the main drivers of economic growth in Ghana. Therefore we
conducted a study to analyse the causality links between the growth in the
construction industry and the growth in the macro-economy of Ghana,
measured by the gross domestic product (GDP), to ascertain whether the
construction industry can be used to lead the entire economy on a growth
path. The analysis was based on a simple Granger causality test using time
series data from 1968 to 2004. We showed that growth in the construction
industry Granger-caused growth in GDP, with a three-year lag. The
construction industry needs to be considered as one of the major drivers
of economic growth in Ghana.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 951-961
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Construction industry, gross domestic product, economic growth, Ghana, Granger causality test, West Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701411208
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701411208
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:951-961
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jay Na Lim
Author-X-Name-First: Jay Na
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Classification of innovation for strategic decision making in construction businesses
Abstract:
Innovations in construction may be classified in several different ways.
To encourage construction firms in Singapore to innovate, a practical
approach is provided for the classification of innovations, in order to
guide construction firms in their development of innovation strategies. A
qualitative systems model, portraying the innovation behaviour of
contractors, is developed and validated through Pearson correlation
analysis and interviews. From interviews with 21 construction
practitioners, the profit maximization goals of construction firms are
shown to be a major driving force of innovation. Construction innovation
should be classified in accordance with the types of benefits and returns
that emerge from them, which makes the investment of money and effort in
innovation worthwhile. Three classes of innovations were identified:
innovations that consumers are willing to pay for; innovations that reduce
contractors' construction costs; and innovations that encompass intangible
benefits, thus providing contractors with competitive advantage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 963-978
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Willingness to pay, profit maximization, innovation, systems thinking,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701393026
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701393026
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:963-978
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Alfred Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John Alfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: Mike Kagioglou
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Kagioglou
Title: Criteria for evaluating research: the unique adequacy requirement of methods
Abstract:
The Unique Adequacy requirement of methods (UA) is proposed as a means of
evaluating research in construction management. UA addresses the problems
stemming from the significance of conscious action in constituting human
organization. These may be summarized as: first, that objectivity is a
problematic concept in such studies; second, that the determination of
meaning is their primary goal; and third, that formal procedures, whether
as methods of research or explanation, have significant limitations. The
UA requirement has two forms: the weak form demands that the researcher is
competent in the research setting; the strong form, that research reports
use only concepts originating within the research setting. The
consequences of applying these criteria are explored with reference to
recent research reports in construction management, including: a
questionnaire survey of cultural difference; an exercise in grounded
theorizing; a case study of the implementation of a quality management
initiative. It is concluded that the UA requirement is a viable tool for
evaluating and guiding research. Emphasis is placed on the importance of
maintaining a principled distinction between empirical research and theory
building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 979-987
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Research methods, methodology, culture, grounded theory, total quality management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701268855
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701268855
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:979-987
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Liyin Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Liyin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Carol Jewell
Author-X-Name-First: Carol
Author-X-Name-Last: Jewell
Title: Competitiveness in construction: a critical review of research
Abstract:
Since its popularization in the 1980s, competitiveness has received close
attention from practitioners and researchers across a wide range of
industries. In the construction sector, many works on competitiveness have
also been published. So far, however, there seems to be no comprehensive
review to summarize and critique existing research on competitiveness in
construction. This research, therefore, reviews the extant literature from
four aspects: concept of competitiveness, competitiveness research at the
construction industry level, competitiveness research at the firm level,
and competitiveness research at the project level. The review presents the
state-of-the-art development of competitiveness research in construction,
identifies the research gaps, and proposes new directions for further
studies. Further research is recommended to validate previous studies in
construction practices, identify the mechanisms that encourage mutual
enhancement of competitiveness at different levels, and how to achieve its
sustainability by embracing new management and/or economics techniques.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 989-1000
Issue: 9
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Competitiveness, competitive advantage, critical review, construction sector,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701258039
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701258039
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:9:p:989-1000
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdul-Rashid Abdul-Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul-Rashid
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Aziz
Author-Name: Mastura Jaafar
Author-X-Name-First: Mastura
Author-X-Name-Last: Jaafar
Author-Name: Abdul Aziz Hussin
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul Aziz
Author-X-Name-Last: Hussin
Title: Are government-linked construction companies in Malaysia still valid? The indigenous contractors' perspective
Abstract:
Despite privatization, many government-linked companies (GLCs) still
continue to operate in Malaysia. Many have objectives that include the
redressing of ethnic economic imbalance. Government-linked construction
companies (GLCCs) were created within these larger public groups. A study
was conducted to explore whether the GLCCs are still valid in Malaysia's
present construction industry scenario, and if not, what actions should be
taken in respect of them. Four aspects (i.e. social obligation,
competitiveness, efficiency and income generation) were looked into. To
answer the research questions, the viewpoints of 'A' Class bumiputera
contractors were solicited which were then investigated on four GLCCs,
three belonging to state economic development corporations (SEDCs) and one
to a land development agency (LDA). The exploratory study found that three
case study GLCCs have limited public value. This paper concludes by
recommending changes that should be made to them. There is much that
policy makers in developing countries with GLCCs can learn from the
Malaysian experience. At the very least, it underscores the need to assess
their raison d'etre periodically. This study also hopes to encourage other
scholars to look into a much under-researched area—that of a
particular set of actors commonly created to promote local construction
industry development.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1009-1019
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Government-linked construction companies, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701598640
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701598640
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1009-1019
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lim Jay Na
Author-X-Name-First: Lim Jay
Author-X-Name-Last: Na
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Goh Bee Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh Bee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hua
Title: Role of national institutions in promoting innovation by contractors in Singapore
Abstract:
The complexity of the relationships among the government, national
institutions and enterprises often hinders efforts to understand the
effectiveness of national institutions in encouraging contractors to
innovate. The role of national institutions in stimulating innovation is
investigated, with a focus on construction firms in Singapore. A
qualitative systems model portraying the role of national institutions in
the construction industry is developed and validated through statistical
analysis and interviews. Technological advance from national institutions
that cultivates a competitive environment is able to stimulate a direct
increase in construction innovation, and develop industry clusters that
enhance the contractors' research capabilities. The primary policy
recommendation is that a national body that unifies various institutions
and parties within the construction sector should be established to
spearhead an integrated and focused research agenda for the construction
industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1021-1039
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Systems thinking, innovation, national institutions, policy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701209925
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1021-1039
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li-Ren Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Li-Ren
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: Exploring the links between technology usage and project outcomes
Abstract:
Ninety-eight capital facility projects from across Taiwan have been
assessed on the issue of technology usage at the work function level and
overall project cost and schedule success. The links between technology
utilization and project success are explored in detail. Identification of
project performance-leveraging work functions is employed as a way to gain
greater understanding of the connection between technology usage and
project performance. In addition, work function characteristics (WFCs) are
investigated as an additional basis for gaining deeper insights into how
technology usage may impact on project success. The analyses suggest that
degrees of technology used in executing the project performance-leveraging
work functions may have a significant impact on project cost or schedule
performance. The results also indicate that information and data-intensive
and management-related WFCs can positively influence project cost and
schedule success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1041-1051
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Cost, project, scheduling, technological change, technology management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701598657
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701598657
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1041-1051
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yamuna Kaluarachchi
Author-X-Name-First: Yamuna
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaluarachchi
Author-Name: Keith Jones
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Jones
Title: Monitoring of a strategic partnering process: the Amphion experience
Abstract:
Amphion Consortium was formed with the membership of a number of
registered social landlords as an initiative in implementing the Egan
agenda which championed long-term successful partnering as a mechanism for
achieving radical change in the construction industry. This was an
opportunity to monitor and record the performance of 12 housing
development projects and the roles played by a complex team network in
contributing to an innovative partnering agreement. Relevant KPIs,
benchmarks, a data collection and site monitoring system were developed. A
range of workshops, questionnaire surveys, detailed interviews with key
project personnel, examination of site meeting notes and feedback reviews
were undertaken as research tools to gather data. An attempt was made to
identify the softer, qualitative issues that are difficult to grapple with
normal numerical data collection methods. A number of takeover bids within
a short space of time had a substantial effect on the consortium as well
as the research project. Mutual trust, effective communication, a changed
mindset from all parties, the quality of the services and commitment of
all stakeholders seem to be the key factors that contribute to a
successful strategic partnering process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1053-1061
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Strategic partnering, social housing, key performance indicators, Amphion, procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701504226
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701504226
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1053-1061
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-Yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-Yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Yee Shan Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Yee Shan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Subjective and objective stress in construction cost estimation
Abstract:
Cost estimators play an important role in an organization, as they
produce most predictions of probable final construction cost. Since both
under- and overestimates can be costly, attention should be paid to the
estimating tasks. People involved are therefore likely to experience a
considerable amount of mental and emotional stress as a result of
inaccurate estimation. The types of stress can be divided into objective
stress (OS), subjective stress (SS) and emotional exhaustion (EE). The
research described in this paper examined the relationships between OS,
SS, EE and stressors based on a survey of construction cost estimation
personnel. T-tests, factor analyses, correlation analyses and regression
analyses were applied to identify differences between the professional
estimators and other personnel, and the types of stress endured. The
results indicate that the stress levels of both the professional
estimators and other personnel are similar, with OS being significantly
higher than SS, which is in turn significantly higher than EE. For
professional estimators, increased levels of OS were found to be mainly
associated with lack of autonomy and unfair reward and treatment.
Increased SS and EE, on the other hand, appeared to be a function of
relationship conflict, work underload, lack of feedback, lack of autonomy
and unfair reward and treatment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1063-1075
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Cost estimator, emotional exhaustion, objective stress, subjective stress, stress, stressors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701573296
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701573296
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1063-1075
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Alfred Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John Alfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: David Seymour
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Seymour
Title: Producing things or production flows? Ontological assumptions in the thinking of managers and professionals in construction
Abstract:
New approaches to production management can be conceptualized as treating
production as flow rather than transformation. These alternatives can in
turn be regarded as reflecting opposing ontological positions, holding
respectively that reality is constituted of temporal process, or atemporal
substance. The new production philosophy thus arguably represents a
process ontology radically different from the atemporal metaphysics
underlying conventional methods and theories. Moreover, research in
physics education has identified the disjunction between ontological
categories of 'substance' and 'process' as a particularly acute barrier to
understanding process phenomena. Studies are presented which demonstrate
the possibility of specifying and classifying mental models, with regard
to two important management solutions in construction. Thus, procedures
typically adopted in quantity surveying and the implementation of
structural engineering design are examined. Methods of measurement used in
quantity surveying are designed to account primarily for physical, rather
than temporal properties. In design, the emphasis is on representing
properties of finished structures, rather than the construction processes.
The process is then managed by treating the design and its execution as
separate products. It is argued here that alternative, more effective
management solutions are derived from a process ontology.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1077-1085
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Decision making, indexicality, learning, lean construction, management theory, metaphysics, ontological categories,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701598665
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701598665
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1077-1085
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sarel Lavy
Author-X-Name-First: Sarel
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavy
Author-Name: Igal Shohet
Author-X-Name-First: Igal
Author-X-Name-Last: Shohet
Title: On the effect of service life conditions on the maintenance costs of healthcare facilities
Abstract:
Global competitiveness and increasing performance requirements have
placed facilities management (FM) under constraints of limited resources,
particularly in non-core aspects of facilities, such as maintenance and
operations. The hypothesis applied in this research is that the actual
service life of buildings, their occupancy and their ambient environmental
conditions affect the required maintenance resources of these facilities.
The objective was to develop a facility coefficient aiming to adjust the
allocation of maintenance resources to prevailing service conditions in
healthcare facilities. The research uses deterioration patterns and
predicted service lives of building components and systems under moderate,
standard and intensive occupancy and under two categories of environment:
marine and inland. In total, five configurations combining occupancy and
environmental conditions were investigated through simulations and
compared to a reference configuration defined as standard occupancy and
inland environment along with a building designed service life of 75
years. The findings of the simulations show that maintenance resources in
healthcare facilities vary between -9% and +18% of the standard
configuration. The simulation results can be used for reliable allocation
of resources for maintenance of healthcare facilities. Findings can be
adapted for residential, office, public and educational facilities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1087-1098
Issue: 10
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Facilities management, healthcare, maintenance, occupancy, service conditions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701393034
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:10:p:1087-1098
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: David Keel
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Keel
Title: Letter to the editor
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1103-1105
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701670340
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1103-1105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhikun Ding
Author-X-Name-First: Zhikun
Author-X-Name-Last: Ding
Author-Name: Fungfai Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Fungfai
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of McAllister's trust scale
Abstract:
While most trust scales have their original versions in English, few
attempts have been made to study the reliability and validity of their
translated versions. Among the trust scales available in the literature,
McAllister's cognition- and affect-based trust scale is a self-rating
scale, developed to test the trust relationship between managers and
professionals. It is translated into Chinese with
translation/back-translation technique and used in a survey among
architects in Mainland China to measure interpersonal trust in a design
team. Reliability analysis shows that Cronbach alphas for cognition-based
and affect-based trust are found to be high (0.803 and 0.841
respectively). First-order and second-order confirmatory factor analysis
with Amos 6.0 are conducted to test the validity of the two-dimensional
structure. Structural equation modelling method is used to test the
nomological validity of the translated trust scale with respect to
architects' willingness to share knowledge in a design team. Findings
suggest that the two-dimensional structure of the McAllister's trust scale
can be applied to Chinese architects. Moreover, the cognition- and
affect-based trust scale could be used in a more general context. The
positive relationship between the two-dimensional trust and architects'
willingness to share knowledge is also confirmed, which substantiates the
nomological validity of the translated trust scale.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1107-1117
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Trust, scale, translation, confirmatory factor analysis, architect,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701670357
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701670357
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1107-1117
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kevin Simmons
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Simmons
Author-Name: Daniel Sutter
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Sutter
Title: Tornado shelters and the housing market
Abstract:
Mitigation against natural hazards often involves long-lived, immobile
investments. Home owners must be able to capture the present value of
future benefits to equate the private and societal return on mitigation.
The capitalization of mitigation into home prices thus is crucial for home
owners to have a proper incentive for mitigation. We investigate the
existence of a premium for tornado shelters using home sales in Oklahoma
City, where the deadly tornado outbreak of 3 May 1999 and the Oklahoma
Saferoom Initiative increased public awareness of tornado shelters. We
find that a shelter increases the sale price of a home by 3.5% to 4% or
approximately $4200 given the mean price of homes sold in 2005. The
magnitude of the premium is plausible given that shelters retail for
$2500-$3000 installed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1119-1126
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Natural disasters, prices, tornado shelters, mitigation, multiple regression,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701618299
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701618299
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1119-1126
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chi Ming Tam
Author-X-Name-First: Chi Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Thomas Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Author-Name: Bill Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Bill
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: An integrated system for earthmoving planning
Abstract:
In earthmoving operations, there are a number of activities that need to
be considered; for example, path identification, plant selection,
assessing the compatibility of the paths and the plants so selected, cost
and productivity comparison of alternatives, safety and environmental
considerations, etc. The traditional approach to this problem by heuristic
rules generated from the experience of planners cannot guarantee an
optimal solution. Hence, a scientific method is proposed to automate the
earthmoving planning by integrating: (1) a path-finding algorithm; (2) a
plant selection system; (3) application of extenics theory to address the
compatibility; and (4) the use of genetic algorithms to optimize the
alternatives in terms of costs, productivity, safety and environmental
considerations. The integrated system is illustrated step by step using a
genuine construction project as an example. The result demonstrates the
effectiveness of the system in automating the earthmoving planning
exercise.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1127-1137
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Automation, earthworks, extenics theory, integrated system, genetic algorithms,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701468836
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1127-1137
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jiukun Dai
Author-X-Name-First: Jiukun
Author-X-Name-Last: Dai
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Author-Name: William Maloney
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Maloney
Title: Analysis of craft workers' and foremen's perceptions of the factors affecting construction labour productivity
Abstract:
Extensive studies have been conducted to examine the factors affecting
construction productivity, but efforts have rarely been made to obtain
craft workers' input. A survey was administered to 1996 craft workers
throughout the US to quantify the workforce's perspective of construction
labour productivity. Specifically, the survey measured the impact of 83
productivity factors, which had been identified through 18 focus group
sessions with craft workers and their immediate supervisors on jobsites
located throughout the US. Craft workers provide detailed insight into the
factors affecting their daily productivity, and most of the adversarial
factors affecting construction labour productivity can be addressed by
jobsite management teams. The major findings indicated that craft workers
and foremen share a general perception of the factors impacting on
construction productivity; however, differences do exist. Specifically,
foremen reported factors related to project management and engineering
drawings having a more severe impact on their productivity compared to
craft workers, and craft workers reported factors related to construction
materials as having a more severe impact.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1139-1152
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Labour productivity, workforce, site management, USA,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701598681
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1139-1152
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patricia Tzortzopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Tzortzopoulos
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: An investigation on the implementation of product development process models in construction companies
Abstract:
Process models have been developed by academia and industry to enhance
design and construction activities. However, effective and widespread
adoption and use of such models in practice has been limited. This
research investigated the dynamics of product development process (PDP)
models implementation in construction companies. Four case studies were
undertaken, and key findings emphasize the need to consider the design and
implementation of PDP models in an integrated fashion within the
organizational context in which it takes place; and the need for a shift
in the role of PDP models from a rational 'planning and control'
perspective to a softer 'learning' approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1153-1164
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Product development process, process modelling, implementation, construction companies,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701468851
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1153-1164
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ilknur Akiner
Author-X-Name-First: Ilknur
Author-X-Name-Last: Akiner
Author-Name: Wilco Tijhuis
Author-X-Name-First: Wilco
Author-X-Name-Last: Tijhuis
Title: Work goal orientation of construction professionals in Turkey: comparison of architects and civil engineers
Abstract:
The construction industry is a significant part of the global economy,
affected by and affecting all dynamics of global competition. However,
there seems to have been a limited amount of research conducted on
differences between countries through the construction industry's culture.
Such comparisons are crucial to identify the cultural factors that are
likely to influence the competitive advantage of the Turkish construction
industry at both domestic and international levels. Cultural similarities
and differences in work goal orientation are compared between selected
groups of professionals in the Turkish construction industry. We aim to
provide information on the work goals of both civil engineers and
architects involved with the construction sector in terms of occupation,
gender and age, respectively. Hofstede's VSM question form was used to
establish cultural profiles of the participants. The cultural dimensions
of architects and civil engineers provide a sample picture of Turkish
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1165-1175
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Culture, occupational culture, Turkey, work goals, professionals,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701670365
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701670365
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1165-1175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kamardeen Imriyas
Author-X-Name-First: Kamardeen
Author-X-Name-Last: Imriyas
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Evelyn Ai-Lin Teo
Author-X-Name-First: Evelyn Ai-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Teo
Title: A fuzzy knowledge-based system for premium rating of workers' compensation insurance for building projects
Abstract:
Occupational injuries and fatalities are rampant in construction. The
significance of the workers' compensation insurance (WCI) is immeasurable
in safeguarding the interests of construction workers and contractors.
From the insurers' perspective, the commitment under this insurance is
extremely broad; there are no exclusions and a maximum limit on their
liability. Thus, insurers must accomplish rigorous risk and market
assessments to decide optimal premiums for construction projects. The
conventional experience rating approach of premium rating has been proven
ineffective for construction applications. Based on the findings of a
literature review and an interview questionnaire survey, a new WCI premium
rating model was developed for building projects. A hybrid of interviews
and past workers' compensation claims data analysis was adopted to develop
the conceptual model of a fuzzy knowledge-based system (KBS) to automate
the proposed model. It was then prototyped, and verified with Turing
tests. The proposed model and its fuzzy KBS advocate real time structured
assessments of project hazards, safety, market condition and insurers'
internal factors for premium rating. They also establish an effective risk
control strategy via a well-structured incentive system for contractors
and clients. Their implementation in the general insurance industry can
facilitate accident control in the construction industry, thereby
minimizing insurers' financial risks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1177-1195
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Occupational health and safety, insurance, fuzzy logic, knowledge-based system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701398462
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701398462
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1177-1195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christopher Gorse
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Gorse
Author-Name: Stephen Emmitt
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Emmitt
Title: Communication behaviour during management and design team meetings: a comparison of group interaction
Abstract:
Although a few studies have investigated the communication behaviour of
construction professionals this research represents the first attempt to
model the construction team's interaction in live project meetings. Using
the established Bales interaction process analysis (IPA) method, both task
and relational interaction were recorded and a model of group
communication was produced. A total of 36 meetings were observed from 10
construction projects and the data aggregated to provide a single profile
of the groups' interaction. The construction meetings' interaction is
compared to previous research undertaken in other contexts. Differences
were found between the interaction patterns of work, social and academic
groups. Typical of the interaction previously observed in work groups, the
participants in construction meetings use high levels of task-based
interaction and low levels of socio-emotional interaction. The adversarial
environment often associated with construction was not found, indeed the
level of negative emotion and critical discussion was so low that it could
be suggested that problems may pass unchallenged.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1197-1213
Issue: 11
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Communication, group dynamics, design, management, teams,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701567413
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:11:p:1197-1213
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Yeung
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeung
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Daniel Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Leong Kwan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Leong Kwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Development of a partnering performance index (PPI) for construction projects in Hong Kong: a Delphi study
Abstract:
Over the past decade, research studies on benefits, critical success
factors, difficulties, process, conceptual and theoretical models of
construction partnering have been ubiquitous in the construction
management discipline. In fact, there is adequate evidence that an
increasing number of client organizations are adopting a partnering
approach to undertake their building and construction projects both
locally and worldwide during the last decade. With the perceived benefits
that partnering brings about, research into Key Performance Indicators
(KPIs) to evaluate the success of partnering projects in construction
becomes vital as it can help set a benchmark for measuring the performance
level of partnering projects. However, although there are some related
studies and papers on this research area, few, if any, comprehensive and
systematic studies focus on developing a comprehensive, objective,
reliable and practical performance evaluation model for partnering
projects. A model has been developed using the Delphi survey technique to
objectively measure the performance of partnering projects in Hong Kong
based on a consolidated KPIs' conceptual framework previously developed
for partnering projects. Four rounds of Delphi questionnaire survey were
conducted with 31 construction experts in Hong Kong. The results reveal
that the top seven weighted KPIs to evaluate the success of partnering
projects in Hong Kong were: (1) time performance; (2) cost performance;
(3) top management commitment; (4) trust and respect; (5) quality
performance; (6) effective communications; and (7) innovation and
improvement. A statistically significant consensus on the top seven
weighted KPIs was also obtained. Finally, a composite Partnering
Performance Index (PPI) for partnering projects in Hong Kong was derived
to provide an all-round assessment of partnering performance. Different
partnering projects can now be assessed on the same basis for benchmarking
purposes. Construction senior executives and project managers can thus use
the Index to measure, evaluate and improve the performance of their
partnering projects to strive for construction excellence. Although the
PPI was developed locally in Hong Kong, the research method could be
replicated in other parts of the world to produce similar indices for
international comparison. Such an extension would aid the understanding of
managing partnering projects across different geographic locations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1219-1237
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Partnering Performance Index (PPI), Delphi method, Delphi study, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701598673
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701598673
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:12:p:1219-1237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jack Goulding
Author-X-Name-First: Jack
Author-X-Name-Last: Goulding
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Author-Name: Xiaonan Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaonan
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Mike Kagioglou
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Kagioglou
Author-Name: Ghassan Aouad
Author-X-Name-First: Ghassan
Author-X-Name-Last: Aouad
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Title: Technology adoption: breaking down barriers using a virtual reality design support tool for hybrid concrete
Abstract:
The use of hybrid concrete technologies as a viable solution to
traditional frame design has been inhibited by a general lack of
information. The uptake of this technology has therefore been slow and
parochial, as designers have tended to stay loyal to 'traditional', tried
and tested technologies—their 'comfort zone'. This research
identifies the barriers associated with technology adoption at industry,
organization and individual levels; and uses hybrid concrete as the core
context for discussion. The role of an enabling design support tool
(HyCon) is presented, which can allow designers to overcome these
inhibitors by providing an immersive, interactive and information-rich
environment through which design solutions can be explored. This
collaborative research project describes a 'proof of concept' design
support tool to promote the use of hybrid concrete in structural frames.
It encompasses knowledge creation, application and sharing functionality,
to envision support and use of this new technology—thereby
promoting organizational learning. Research findings note that, while
design tools have a valuable role to play, it is also important to
appreciate that the uptake of any new technology is a social phenomenon,
and that subsequent adoption/uptake requires careful embedding and
augmentation into company organizational systems in order to leverage
advantage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1239-1250
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Design method, virtual prototyping, organizational learning, decision making, simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701504234
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Colin Gray
Author-X-Name-First: Colin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gray
Author-Name: Richard John Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Richard John
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Title: Perspectives on experiences of innovation: the development of an assessment methodology appropriate to construction project organizations
Abstract:
The UK construction industry is in the process of trying to adopt a new
culture based on the large-scale take up of innovative practices. Through
the Demonstration Project process many organizations are implementing
changed practices and learning from the experiences of others. This is
probably the largest experiment in innovation in any industry in recent
times. The long-term success will be measured by the effectiveness of
embedding the new practices in the organization. As yet there is no
recognized approach to measuring the receptivity of the organization to
the innovation process as an indication of the likelihood of long-term
development. The development of an appropriate approach is described here.
Existing approaches to the measurement of the take up of innovation were
reviewed and where appropriate used as the base for the development of a
questionnaire. The questionnaire could be applicable to
multi-organizational construction project situations such that the output
could determine an individual organization's innovative practices via an
innovation scorecard, a project team's approach or it could be used to
survey a wide cross-section of the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1251-1268
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Innovation, measurement, methodology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701573692
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701573692
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:12:p:1251-1268
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nannan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Nannan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: CSI model for estimating road maintenance projects
Abstract:
Major road maintenance projects need an accurate cost estimate at the
early stage of design. At present, simple and quick models are lacking.
Two easy-to-use cost models for major asphalt road maintenance projects
are developed. The double mean model and the trend line model are based on
the cost-significance method. The historical data used are bills of
quantities (BoQs) of major road maintenance projects including
reconstruction, overlay and resurfacing. The cost-significant items in the
models are consistent for this type of project. Further BoQs are used to
test the accuracy of the cost-significance models. The two
cost-significance models simplify the data collection and cost modelling
process. The double mean model is suitable for quick estimates at scheme
design stage, while the trend line model has a much better accuracy and is
still simpler than traditional methods, and is therefore appropriate to
use for the detailed design stage. Because there are fewer items whose
costs require estimating, it is likely that the cost of each item can be
estimated more accurately.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1269-1281
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Cost significance, cost modelling, estimating, major road maintenance project,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701670373
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:12:p:1269-1281
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rosanna Isadora Duncan
Author-X-Name-First: Rosanna Isadora
Author-X-Name-Last: Duncan
Author-Name: Julianne Mortimer
Author-X-Name-First: Julianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Mortimer
Title: Race equality and procurement: an investigation into the impact of race equality policy on the procurement of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) contractors and consultants in the Welsh social housing sector
Abstract:
In 2002, the Welsh Assembly Government published its Black and Minority
Ethnic (BME) Housing Action Plan for Wales. This required social landlords
in Wales to develop policies, practices and procedures which took into
account the needs of BME people. This plan also stated that they should
promote race equality within the procurement process by increasing their
use of BME contractors and consultants and by ensuring that the
contractors and consultants they engaged were operating within a race
equality framework. The aim of this research was to investigate the
factors affecting race equality and procurement in the social housing
sector in Wales. This involved collecting data from social landlords, main
contractors and consultants and BME contractors and consultants. This
research discusses the data collected from 39 social landlords in Wales
(12 of the 22 local authorities and 27 of the 30 major housing
associations). Data were collected relating to their procurement practices
and procedures. The research found that few social landlords in Wales were
actively addressing the issue of race equality within the procurement
process and that much is needed to be done by social landlords in Wales to
ensure race equality throughout the procurement process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1283-1293
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: BME, construction industry, equality, procurement and social housing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701474198
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701474198
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Per-Erik Josephson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Josephson
Title: Coaching the site manager: effects on learning and managerial practice
Abstract:
Coaching has emerged as a potentially powerful leadership development
approach, capable of effectively blending theoretical knowledge and
practical skills in onsite training. To date, little research on the use
of coaching in the construction industry has been published and the
coaching literature is primarily written by coaches with vested interests.
In addition, there are a limited number of critical and empirical
evaluations of the approach. A year-long action research coaching project
in the Swedish construction industry shows that site managers
participating in the coaching programme developed skills for reflecting on
their work life situation, improved their communication, and became better
equipped for seeing a broader range of perspectives in their work. In
addition, the coaching programme opened up new discussions in the
construction projects, which benefited further communication. The overall
reception of the coaching programme was enthusiastic. While coaching does
not come without costs and efforts, it may serve as a leadership
development approach capable of helping site managers develop their
leadership skills, cope with work-family conflicts, and improve their
communication.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1295-1304
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Coaching, leadership development, site managers,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701466111
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701466111
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:12:p:1295-1304
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Katherine Sang
Author-X-Name-First: Katherine
Author-X-Name-Last: Sang
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Stephen Ison
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ison
Title: Gender: a risk factor for occupational stress in the architectural profession?
Abstract:
There is significant evidence that those working in construction are at
risk of poor health and well-being due to long working hours, job
insecurity, poor work-life balance, low professional worth and temporary
teams. There is also a disparate body of evidence which highlights the
discrimination experienced by women working in the construction industry.
There is, however, a paucity of research exploring gender differences in
occupational health and well-being within construction. The current
research utilizes standardized measures of occupational health and
well-being to identify any gender-determined differences among a sample of
architects. A self-completion questionnaire was used to assess job
satisfaction, physical health problems, work-life conflict and turnover
intentions. Female respondents reported significantly lower overall job
satisfaction and significantly higher levels of insomnia and constipation,
work-life conflict and turnover intentions. Although further work is
needed to understand the causal relationships between variables and the
nature of the female architects' dissatisfactions and concerns, the
suggestion that women working in the architectural profession are at risk
of poorer occupational health and well-being than their male colleagues
will be of concern to a profession seeking to embrace diversity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1305-1317
Issue: 12
Volume: 25
Year: 2007
Keywords: Architects, occupational health and well-being, women, gender differences,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701546177
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701546177
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:25:y:2007:i:12:p:1305-1317
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joao Neves
Author-X-Name-First: Joao
Author-X-Name-Last: Neves
Author-Name: Antonio Bugalho
Author-X-Name-First: Antonio
Author-X-Name-Last: Bugalho
Title: Coordination and control in emerging international construction firms
Abstract:
Decisions pertaining to the coordination and control of subsidiaries made
by emerging international construction firms are crucial for the success
of their internationalization process. The case study approach, based on
four emerging international construction firms with headquarters in
Portugal, is used to analyse the coordination and control processes
adopted by these construction firms at an early internationalization
stage. The proposition of the study was that these types of firms learn
more from their experiences than from the existing theory in the
literature. The results show a clear pattern of replication of home norms
and practices, suggesting that at an early stage they neglect the theory
of international business, the host countries' specificities and the
consequent adaptation needs. The case studies show that all the
headquarters initiated the control of their international activities
through home-based bureaucratic systems, but have realized that they need
more cultural and social control, as recommended by Bartlett and Ghoshal
(1989, 1992).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-13
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Multinational firms, international business, management control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701793670
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hamzah Abdul-Rahman
Author-X-Name-First: Hamzah
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Rahman
Author-Name: Imran Ariff Yahya
Author-X-Name-First: Imran Ariff
Author-X-Name-Last: Yahya
Author-Name: Mohammed Ali Berawi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Berawi
Author-Name: Low Wai Wah
Author-X-Name-First: Low Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Wah
Title: Conceptual delay mitigation model using a project learning approach in practice
Abstract:
There is universal agreement that construction delay is a common
phenomenon in the construction industry worldwide. Poor or lack of project
knowledge management continues to plague the construction industry,
especially in relation to project delays. Knowledge management is used to
reduce the impact of construction projects delay using a project learning
approach. Three different phases of data collection were used for the
development of a delay mitigation model, namely preliminary survey, case
studies and interviews survey. The project learning approach contributes
towards positive impacts on project schedule performance. Also, good
leadership and integrated commitment of all project parties are the
principal impetus to improve the delay phenomenon in the construction
industry. The conceptual model incorporates knowledge on knowledge
management, project learning, lessons learned feedback and supervisory
control principles. The results indicate that the application of project
learning is a way to align the project schedule performance to client and
market needs while maintaining the contractor's core competency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 15-27
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Delay, knowledge management, project learning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701744350
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lawrence Wai Chung Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Lawrence Wai Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Author-Name: Felicity Wai Ngar Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Felicity Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Ngar Ng
Author-Name: Ping Yung
Author-X-Name-First: Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Yung
Title: The Coase Theorem and a Coasian construction economics and management research agenda
Abstract:
This paper seeks to construct an empirical research agenda based on
transaction cost reasoning informed by the Coase Theorem. It explains why
the Coase Theorem has not been well received in the area of construction
economics and management, as revealed by the relevant bibliometrics;
develops a transaction cost-based research agenda for this arena based on
the corollaries of the invariant version and optimality version of the
Coase Theorem; and maps the current research endeavours that fall into
that agenda. It has been explained that the Coase Theorem was based on
Coase's 1960 article, 'The problem of social cost', and is not only
compatible with, but also more general than, Coase's theory of the firm
offered in his 1937 paper, 'The nature of the firm'. Hence, the 'two
Coases' characterization, which suggests a dichotomy
pro-organization/regulation stance versus a pro-free market stance, is
fallacious.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 29-46
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2007
Keywords: Coase Theorem, transaction cost, property rights, bibliometrics, construction economics and management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701450438
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701450438
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ren-Jye Dzeng
Author-X-Name-First: Ren-Jye
Author-X-Name-Last: Dzeng
Author-Name: Shyh-Shiuh Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shyh-Shiuh
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: An analysis of infrastructure development based on national competitiveness perspectives
Abstract:
Development of the infrastructure is one of the key factors in
determining the competitiveness of a nation. Most world competitiveness
reports include infrastructure development as a primary set of indicators
in assessing the competitiveness of nations. We ranked the indicators
based on their performances in terms of not only standard deviations but
also leading and falling-behind groups classified by the cluster analysis.
The discriminant competitiveness graphic-based representation of the
indicator performance allowed policy makers to formulate infrastructure
strategies. Simulated experiments based on the competitiveness data of
Canada, Taiwan and Thailand also demonstrated that such ranking resulted
in a better selection of weak indicators for improvement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 47-61
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2007
Keywords: National competitiveness, infrastructure, discriminant competitiveness graphics, clustering analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701670381
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701670381
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stuart Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Author-Name: Chung-Chin Kao
Author-X-Name-First: Chung-Chin
Author-X-Name-Last: Kao
Title: Competitive strategy revisited: contested concepts and dynamic capabilities
Abstract:
Strategy is a contested concept. The generic literature is characterized
by a diverse range of competing theories and alternative perspectives.
Traditional models of the competitive strategy of construction firms have
tended to focus on exogenous factors. In contrast, the resource-based view
of strategic management emphasizes the importance of endogenous factors.
The more recently espoused concept of dynamic capabilities extends
consideration beyond static resources to focus on the ability of firms to
reconfigure their operating routines to enable responses to changing
environments. The relevance of the dynamics capabilities framework to the
construction sector is investigated through an exploratory case study of a
regional contractor. The focus on how firms continuously adapt to changing
environments provides new insights into competitive strategy in the
construction sector. Strong support is found for the importance of path
dependency in shaping strategic choice. The case study further suggests
that strategy is a collective endeavour enacted by a loosely defined group
of individual actors. Dynamic capabilities are characterized by an
empirical elusiveness and as such are best construed as situated practices
embedded within a social and physical context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 63-78
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Strategic management, contracting, industry change, case study, dynamic capabilities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701656174
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ozay Mehmet
Author-X-Name-First: Ozay
Author-X-Name-Last: Mehmet
Author-Name: Vedat Yorucu
Author-X-Name-First: Vedat
Author-X-Name-Last: Yorucu
Title: Explosive construction in a micro-state: environmental limit and the Bon curve: evidence from North Cyprus
Abstract:
The dynamo role of the construction sector in North Cyprus is documented
on the basis of an empirical estimation of backward and forward linkages
during the period 1998 to 2005. This was a period when the North Cyprus
economy experienced an economic boom in the aftermath of the UN Peace Plan
known as the Annan Plan for settling the Cyprus problem. The latest
input-output table for the North Cyprus economy is 1998 and we had to
derive backward and forward linkages for 2005 from a detailed breakdown of
inter-industry transactions per unit of construction output using the most
significant purchases and deliveries, normalizing these transactions for
comparability between 2005 and 1998. The results reflect radically
different pattern of inter-industry transactions in 2005 compared to 1998.
This work also has general interest in highlighting the possibility of a
modified Bon curve for micro-states, such as North Cyprus, in which
environmental constraints may be encountered earlier implying an inverted
V-shaped Bon curve in place of an inverted U-shape.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 79-88
Issue: 1
Volume: 26
Year: 2007
Keywords: Developing countries, backward linkages, Bon-curve, environmental impacts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701708272
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701708272
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2007:i:1:p:79-88
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sonja Petrovic-Lazarevic
Author-X-Name-First: Sonja
Author-X-Name-Last: Petrovic-Lazarevic
Title: The development of corporate social responsibility in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
In the Australian construction industry, large companies develop
corporate social responsibility (CSR) in order to maintain an image of
being a good corporate citizen. CSR relevant to the construction industry
is defined including the following activities: moral obligation to be a
good citizen; sustainability; reputation; relationship with employees and
unions; relationship with suppliers and community representatives; and
commitment to reporting on CSR. CSR is then examined through 85 interviews
conducted with members of boards of directors, suppliers, employees,
customers and community representatives of 17 large corporations. In order
to be recognized as a socially responsible business, the corporations
should: apply a corporate governance structure that takes into
consideration working environment concerns; improve their sustainability,
occupational health and safety measures, relationships with suppliers and
commitment to local community protection and engagement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 93-101
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Corporate social responsibility, construction industry, corporate governance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701819079
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701819079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:93-101
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Author-Name: David Root
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Root
Title: The informal construction sector and the inefficiency of low cost housing markets
Abstract:
Urban low cost housing markets in developing countries are often
inefficient and subsidized programmes can add further market distortions.
In the case of South Africa, one of the important causes of the
inefficiency of the housing market (and one that is often ignored) is the
fact that housing policies and construction practices systematically
exclude the informal construction sector: the very sector that has been
the only source of delivery of affordable housing for the bottom poor.
After the end of the apartheid era and the transition to democracy in
1994, an ambitious programme of subsidized housing was implemented in the
country. Since then, more than 1.6 million housing units have been built
but the housing policies have not created a functional residential market
for low income South Africans. In spite of the good intentions of the
stakeholders in the marketplace, some projects developed by NGOs do not
help to overcome these shortcomings and frequently accentuate some of the
inefficiencies of the market. Four case studies of housing projects in
Cape Town show the common constraints derived from institutional
structures and prevailing attitudes among the NGOs and other stakeholders
that prevent the informal sector from being involved. Giving greater
participation to the informal sector in subsidized housing projects might
prove difficult as it requires modification of structural policies and
reformulation of the principles and values of urban intervention. However,
these changes are required to reduce the housing deficit in South Africa.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 103-113
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Housing development, residential, informal housing, markets, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701808965
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:103-113
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yong-Huang Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Yong-Huang
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: Pin-Chan Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Pin-Chan
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: Ta-Peng Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Ta-Peng
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: Integrating grey number and Minkowski distance function into grey relational analysis technique to improve the decision quality under uncertain information
Abstract:
Giving precise evaluation numbers becomes much more problematic in
decision-making problems owing to the growing uncertainty inherently
embedded in the increasing complexity of engineering systems. To alleviate
this problem, both grey number and Minkowski distance function are
integrated into the grey relational analysis technique to establish an
effective multi-attribute decision-making model. In the proposed model,
the uncertain information is transformed through the operations of grey
numbers and then evaluated by the approachability of the ideal preference
alternative, from which the suitability of each alternative is measured by
the grey number Minkowski distance function to decide the appropriate
selection. Two illustrative examples, the selection of construction
alternatives and the evaluation of subcontractors, are adopted to
demonstrate the feasibility and practicability of the proposed model.
Results are confirmed by the experts afterwards and show that the proposed
model is efficient, robust and well appropriate for real-world
applications.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 115-123
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Grey number, grey relational analysis technique, multi-attribute decision making, uncertain information,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701821802
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701821802
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Natalie Galea
Author-X-Name-First: Natalie
Author-X-Name-Last: Galea
Title: Genderlect and conflict in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
The Australian construction industry is male dominated and highly
confrontational. Critical decision and concept mapping methods are
employed to explore the connection between these two characteristics by
contrasting the cognitive bases of judgement and communication used by
male and female workers in hypothetical conflict settings. Results
indicate that the Australian construction industry's genderlect is
male-centric and that this perpetuates the relatively high incidence of
conflict. Women and men also behave differently in conflicts and in jobs
that require them to engage in conflict and confrontation. Consequently,
levels of conflict in the Australian construction industry could be
reduced by increased female participation and feminizing communicative and
behavioural responses to conflict.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 125-135
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Gender, conflict, dispute, communication,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701798810
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701798810
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:125-135
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fredrik Waara
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Waara
Title: Mitigating contractual hazards in public procurement: a study of Swedish local authorities
Abstract:
Private sector buyers often award construction contracts through
negotiation rather than through open competitive tendering. Negotiating
with a reputable contractor is a way to mitigate contractual hazards. For
many public sector buyers, however, open competitive tendering is required
by law. The practices of procurement officers in local authorities are
examined in regard to the selection of construction contractors, focusing
particularly on their use of scoring-based competitive tendering and ex
ante information exchange between procurement officers and the firms
competing for contracts. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with
15 procurement officers in 10 local authorities in Sweden. Using the
contractor's staffing of the project organization as a contract award
criterion allows procurement officers to select reputable contractors.
Arranging face-to-face meetings with contractors before the final award
decision allows procurement officers to resolve at least some technical
problems in complex construction projects. When negotiations are
prohibited by law, these practices can be seen as combined responses to
hazards of construction contracting.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 137-145
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Contracting, procurement law, public sector, Sweden,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701793696
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701793696
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:137-145
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Lay Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Yu Lay
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Author-Name: Craig Ashley Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig Ashley
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: Reliability of building embodied energy modelling: an analysis of 30 Melbourne case studies
Abstract:
Building design decisions are commonly based on issues pertaining to
construction cost, and consideration of energy performance is made only
within the context of the initial project budget. Even where energy is
elevated to more importance, operating energy is seen as the focus and
embodied energy is nearly always ignored. For the first time, a large
sample of buildings has been assembled and analysed in a single study to
improve the understanding of the relationship between energy and cost
performance over their full life cycle. Thirty recently completed
buildings in Melbourne, Australia have been studied to explore the
accuracy of initial embodied energy prediction based on capital cost at
various levels of model detail. The embodied energy of projects, elemental
groups, elements and selected items of work are correlated against capital
cost and the strength of the relationship is computed. The relationship
between initial embodied energy and capital cost generally declines as the
predictive model assumes more detail, although elemental modelling may
provide the best solution on balance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 147-160
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Accuracy, capital cost, embodied energy, capital cost, modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701716564
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701716564
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:147-160
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yat-Hung Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Yat-Hung
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Bo-Sin Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Bo-Sin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Francis Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Volume building as competitive strategy
Abstract:
The competitive strategy and advantage of building contractors is
examined. In Hong Kong, just a few contractors have dominated the market
of public housing construction, where prefabrication is mandatory. Does
prefabrication technology lead to business success? Based on quantitative
analysis of a questionnaire survey and its validation with interviews, we
find that prefabrication by itself is not regarded as a sustainable source
of competitive advantage. Instead, market share is the most statistically
significant factor related to business growth. The experience curve theory
suggests that, upon acquiring a critical volume of business, contractors
have the opportunity to exploit economies of scale, bargaining power and
learning to reduce costs to get more business. Through this iterative
process, some contractors would manage to innovate their building process
to make their supply chain management more efficient and effective than
others', thus attaining competitive advantage in cost leadership and
getting more business in return to sustain their volume building strategy.
The findings suggest that, to succeed in a mature industry such as
building construction, it takes clever harnessing of the construction
process rather than simply the mastery of prefabrication technology
itself.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 161-176
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Competitive advantage, strategy, prefabrication, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701749151
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701749151
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:161-176
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bon-Gang Hwang
Author-X-Name-First: Bon-Gang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hwang
Author-Name: Stephen Thomas
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas
Author-Name: Deborah Degezelle
Author-X-Name-First: Deborah
Author-X-Name-Last: Degezelle
Author-Name: Carlos Caldas
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos
Author-X-Name-Last: Caldas
Title: Development of a benchmarking framework for pharmaceutical capital projects
Abstract:
Benchmarking is a proven technique for improving project performance and,
as such, is a critical component of any mature project delivery system.
Competitive benchmarking requires industry-specific metrics in absolute
terms since processes vary by industry, and any metrics used within a
single industry must be attuned to its particular processes. A framework
is developed for evaluating pharmaceutical capital facility projects using
metrics specific to the characteristics of these unique projects.
Establishment of the framework made possible the development of a set of
industry-specific metrics and a flexible data collection and reporting
system for measuring project performance. Preliminary findings from an
initial sample of 40 pharmaceutical projects confirm that meaningful
industry-specific metrics can be produced for pharmaceutical capital
facilities benchmarking. Developing such a framework enables the industry
to measure project performance more accurately, get meaningful project
performance comparisons, and ultimately establish credible norms for
project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 177-195
Issue: 2
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Benchmarking, pharmaceutical project, project management, project performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701802398
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701802398
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:2:p:177-195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chin-Hsiang Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chin-Hsiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Yu-Cheng Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: H. Ping Tserng
Author-X-Name-First: H. Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Tserng
Title: Distilling and managing engineers' experience in construction projects using a pattern approach
Abstract:
Construction management requires engineers to acquire effectively and
efficiently management experience. Most experience management (EM) in the
construction industry focuses on explicit experience (such as writing
reports and documents). Furthermore, tacit experience is usually more
difficult to acquire than explicit experience. This study proposes an
After the Issue Review (AIR) approach to acquire experience from engineers
involved in construction projects, and effectively enhance experience
sharing through a web-based platform. Moreover, an AIR Construction
Pattern (AIRCP) scheme is proposed and utilized to codify and edit the
acquired experience. The web-based experience management system presents a
user-friendly interface of an experience-sharing platform, through which
engineers learn valuable tacit experience derived from previous projects.
Finally, a case study involving tunnel construction for expressway
projects in Taiwan is utilized to validate the proposed approach and
demonstrate the effectiveness of experience acquisition and management in
construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-223
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Construction management, experience management, construction project, pattern,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701819061
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701819061
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:209-223
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhen Yu Zhao
Author-X-Name-First: Zhen Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhao
Author-Name: Li Yin Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Li Yin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Are Chinese contractors competitive in international markets?
Abstract:
Chinese contractors have become more active in recent years in the
international arena. This development is largely due to the encouragement
and support by the Chinese government, coupled with the pressure of
intensive competition within the domestic market. The increasing presence
of Chinese international contractors (CICs) has attracted the attention of
competitors from other countries. The CICs' strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats in the international construction market are
identified through analysing their business performance. Data used for the
analysis are from multiple sources including literature reviews, policy
reports, published statistics data and interviews with 25 construction
professionals who work in CICs. It is suggested that CICs have made
significant progress in building up their competitiveness in recent years
and become competitors to other overseas contractors in international
construction markets. The results provide valuable references for
undertaking comparative research on organizational competitiveness among
the contractors who come from different countries in international
construction markets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 225-236
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: China, construction industry, contractor, international business, competitiveness,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801905380
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801905380
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:225-236
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Koh Tas Yong
Author-X-Name-First: Koh Tas
Author-X-Name-Last: Yong
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Title: Organizational culture and TQM implementation in construction firms in Singapore
Abstract:
The adoption and implementation of total quality management (TQM) are
related to a company's culture. The relationship between cultural
orientation and the implementation of TQM practices among certified
Singapore contractors is investigated from an organizational culture
perspective. The competing values framework was used to assess
organizational culture and eight TQM elements were identified to gauge the
implementation of TQM practices among contractors. A survey questionnaire
was administered. Four organizational culture types have been identified
from the survey findings. These are strong comprehensive, clan-driven,
hierarchy-driven and weak comprehensive culture. Firms with strong
comprehensive culture implement highly the TQM elements of top management
leadership, people, process, customer and supplier management. Firms with
clan-driven culture implement highly the element of process management
while firms with hierarchy-driven and weak comprehensive culture implement
lowly to moderately all elements. A culture-based TQM implementation
strategy is proposed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 237-248
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Competing values framework, contractor, organizational culture, total quality management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701874397
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701874397
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:237-248
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Ziwei Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Ziwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Title: Delineating the predominant criteria for subcontractor appraisal and their latent relationships
Abstract:
An industry report in Hong Kong calls for an agreed framework for
appraising subcontractor performance. A set of performance appraisal
criteria is developed that is agreeable to all key stakeholders in
subcontracting. By examining the criteria being applied around the world
and reviewing the available literature, a set of 31 subcontractor
performance appraisal criteria was compiled. A questionnaire survey was
conducted in Hong Kong to reveal the perception of relevant stakeholders
on the most critical criteria for subcontractor appraisal. The independent
samples t-test confirmed that the main contractor and subcontractor groups
had a significant agreement on the importance levels of most subcontractor
performance appraisal criteria. Through factor analysis, the 15 most
important subcontractor performance appraisal criteria and their
underlying relationships are identified. The results indicate that the
three overarching factors for subcontractor performance appraisal are
'team interaction', 'accomplishment of project goals' and 'track record'.
The identified appraisal criteria lay a solid foundation for the
development of a centralized subcontractor performance appraisal system to
facilitate performance reporting, data sharing and benchmarking.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 249-259
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Subcontractor, performance appraisal, decision criteria, factor analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701874405
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701874405
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:249-259
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Matar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Matar
Author-Name: Maged Georgy
Author-X-Name-First: Maged
Author-X-Name-Last: Georgy
Author-Name: Moheeb Elsaid Ibrahim
Author-X-Name-First: Moheeb Elsaid
Author-X-Name-Last: Ibrahim
Title: Sustainable construction management: introduction of the operational context space (OCS)
Abstract:
Sustainable construction is an emerging field of science that aims at
incorporating the general sustainable development concepts into
conventional construction practices. While the foundation of knowledge in
this field is continuously expanding, sustainable construction is not yet
standard industry practice. One major technical barrier that hinders
enacting sustainable construction is the absence of an application
framework that integrates both sustainability and construction practices
at an operational level. This shortcoming is being addressed through a
three-dimensional operational context space (OCS) that achieves the sought
integration aspect. The three dimensions of OCS are: (1) project life
cycle phases; (2) project executing entities; and (3) sustainability
performance parameters. Such OCS facilitates the association of
responsibility, by assigning each sustainability requirement to a specific
project entity (or entities) during specific project phase(s), and further
provides a numerical assessment for construction projects using
sustainability as a criterion. Steps of constructing the OCS and how it
could be employed in the evaluation and benchmarking of a project's
environmental performance are examined, along with sample illustrations in
the area of construction waste management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 261-275
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Sustainability, sustainable construction, environmental impact, integration, benchmarking,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701842972
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701842972
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:261-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Yeung
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeung
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Daniel Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Establishing quantitative indicators for measuring the partnering performance of construction projects in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Research into Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for partnering projects
in construction becomes vital because an increasing trend of client
organizations has been observed to introduce a partnering approach to
their building and construction works internationally during the last
decade. A Partnering Performance Index (PPI) has been developed for
construction projects in Hong Kong. The PPI can assist in developing a
benchmark for measuring the performance of their partnering projects.
However, it is worth noting that assessors may have their own semantic
interpretations on each KPI. The aim of this paper is to establish
suitable quantitative indicators (QIs) and reasonable quantitative ranges
(QRs) for each KPI in order to avoid any possible discrepancies in
interpreting the meaning of each KPI and provide objective evaluation
results based on quantitative evidence. By conducting five structured
face-to-face interviews and two rounds of a Delphi questionnaire survey in
Hong Kong, a set of QIs were developed to measure the seven most important
KPIs, including: (1) time performance; (2) cost performance; (3) top
management commitment performance; (4) quality performance; (5) trust and
respect performance; (6) effective communications performance; and (7)
innovation and improvement performance. The identified QIs and QRs could
assess and compare different partnering projects on a common basis
objectively, thus helping to set a benchmark for measuring the performance
level of partnering projects in Hong Kong. Construction senior executives
and project managers can thus apply the QIs and QRs to measure, evaluate
and improve the existing performance of their partnering projects in order
to strive for construction excellence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 277-301
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Key Performance Indicators, partnering, quantitative indicators, Delphi method, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701793688
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:277-301
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chuan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Chuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Title: Entry mode selection for international construction markets: the influence of host country related factors
Abstract:
The increasing necessity to establish a permanent presence in overseas
markets challenges the tradition of tide-like market entry mode of
international contractors and confronts them with an important dichotomous
selection between permanent entry mode and mobile entry mode. By borrowing
theories and previous findings from the general international business
area, the hypotheses regarding the influences of specific host country
related factors upon the selection between the two generic entry modes,
including cultural difference, trade link, host market potential,
investment risk, institutional entry barrier and competition intensity are
developed. Measures are proposed for these factors as well as some control
variables and the dependent variable (entry mode). Data were collected
from multiple sources for these variables. A binary logistic regression
analysis was performed to test the hypotheses and develop a statistical
model for entry mode selection. The model is statistically significant and
not all the hypotheses are supported, confirming the uniqueness of the
population of international contractors in market entry mode selection.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 303-314
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: International business, marketing strategy, international construction, market entry strategy, market entry model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701882382
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701882382
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:303-314
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David James Bryde
Author-X-Name-First: David James
Author-X-Name-Last: Bryde
Title: Is construction different? A comparison of perceptions of project management performance and practices by business sector and project type
Abstract:
Although poor project management (PM) performance on construction
projects and limitations in PM practices continue to be reported, there
has been little research specifically focused on comparing perceptions of
PM performance and practices of the construction business sector with
other sectors and of construction projects with other types of project.
This gap is addressed by a survey of 238 UK organizations, incorporating a
sub-sample from the construction business sector. A questionnaire was used
to obtain data relating to perceived levels of PM performance and of
levels of maturity in certain PM practices. Those involved in projects in
the construction business sector perceived their PM performance to be
higher than did those involved in projects from other business sectors.
However, there was no difference in perceptions of PM performance on
specific construction projects among participants drawn from all business
sectors, i.e. owner/clients from other business sectors. In terms of
practices the construction business sector reported higher levels of
maturity in the management of programmes and organizational support for PM
than other sectors. However, in the areas of sponsorship and benefit
management the construction sector practices were no more evolved than
those in other business sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-327
Issue: 3
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Performance evaluation, project management, project performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701874413
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701874413
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:3:p:315-327
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Author-Name: M. N. Devaya
Author-X-Name-First: M. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Devaya
Title: Modelling the risks faced by Indian construction companies assessing international projects
Abstract:
There are just two Indian construction companies in the ENR 'Top 225
Global Contractors 2006' list and Indian construction companies have only
a 0.05% market share of the $3-4 trillion global construction business.
International construction experience in India is limited, but enormous
scope for growth exists. This research presents the international
construction risk factors from the Indian construction professionals'
viewpoint, in a comprehensive format to enable practitioners to prioritize
the efforts to manage the risk factors. Fourteen important risk factors
have been identified through literature survey and interaction with
industry experts. Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) has been used to
present a hierarchical model showing the interrelationships between the
risk factors. MICMAC analysis has been used to quantify and classify the
risk factors based on their influence and dependence on other risk factors
and to highlight counter-intuitive risk factors. We find that poor project
management is a key risk factor forming the hub of the system, while
political instability has maximum influence. The findings may be useful to
the practitioners in the construction industry and may also interest
academicians, since the method used here can be applied in other areas of
construction management as well.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 337-348
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: India, risk analysis, international project, interpretive structural modelling, globalization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801953281
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801953281
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:337-348
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Franco Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Franco
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Margie Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Margie
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: A study of clients' and estimators' tolerance towards estimating errors
Abstract:
Previous research on building pre-tender cost estimating stresses the
importance of giving accurate estimates and minimizing estimating errors.
Cost models, especially those mathematical models using mean square error
or the like for model training and validation, often treat positive errors
(overestimates) and negative errors (underestimates) of equal magnitude
the same with an implicit assumption that the regret or disutility of
positive errors (overestimates) is equal to that of negative errors
(underestimates). A survey was conducted in Hong Kong to study estimating
practice and in particular, the attitude of clients and estimators towards
estimating errors. This involved the use of regression analysis to model
the relative disutility of underestimates (in terms of overestimates) for
four different building types. Both clients and estimators are found to be
risk averse—tolerating overestimates more than
underestimates—and, arguably, clients are satisfied with
overestimates. However, they have contrasting views on the desired
characteristics of estimates with clients considering the ability to
identify cost sensitive elements to be more important than accuracy. In
this regard, the formalization of value analysis as part of the cost
advice function under typical cost consulting agreements should be the
best form of improvement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 349-362
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Expert judgement, cost planning, client, accuracy, survey,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701802380
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701802380
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:349-362
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nader Naderpajouh
Author-X-Name-First: Nader
Author-X-Name-Last: Naderpajouh
Author-Name: Abbas Afshar
Author-X-Name-First: Abbas
Author-X-Name-Last: Afshar
Title: A case-based reasoning approach to application of value engineering methodology in the construction industry
Abstract:
A key point in value engineering (VE) methodology is to acquire and apply
knowledge of the assorted fields. An appropriate definition of VE expert
knowledge flow could, therefore, yield more productive VE workshops. A
conceptual expert case-based reasoning (CBR) framework is introduced in
this paper to form a coherent basis for the provision of practically
suitable VE expert models. The proposed framework outlines knowledge
entities and their relations in the VE workshop. The model benefits from a
fuzzy approach to handle uncertainties in the evaluation phase of the
methodology. In addition, a computer program is devised, based on the
proposed framework, using Borland Delphi 7.0. It comprises an interface
representing several phases of the VE job plan. The model is employed in a
tunnelling project to demonstrate feasibility of the model in a practical
workshop. Owing to its expert nature, the developed model contributes to
efficiency of the methodology through providing VE teams with canalized
expert knowledge of diverse domains. The propounded model may avail
researchers in promoting expert models for pre-construction and
specifically VE studies in major construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-372
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Value engineering, expert system, case-based reasoning, decision support system, fuzzy sets,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801905398
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801905398
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:363-372
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Truong-Van Luu
Author-X-Name-First: Truong-Van
Author-X-Name-Last: Luu
Author-Name: Soo-Yong Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Soo-Yong
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Huu-Loi Cao
Author-X-Name-First: Huu-Loi
Author-X-Name-Last: Cao
Author-Name: Young-Min Park
Author-X-Name-First: Young-Min
Author-X-Name-Last: Park
Title: Performance measurement of construction firms in developing countries
Abstract:
Many large contractors in Vietnam are lacking an effective method to
measure their performance and identify weaknesses and threats. The
integration of the balanced scorecard (BSC) and
strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats (SWOT) matrix is described to
evaluate the strategic performance of large contractors in Vietnam. The
AnGiang Construction Company (ACC) was used as an example to validate the
approach. The BSC-oriented SWOT matrix is developed to formulate the
short- and long-term strategies of ACC. The benchmarking approach was
adapted to evaluate the ACC's performance and expose its competitors' best
practices for improvement. The results indicated that only the financial
perspective is at a poor level on the performance scale whereas the
customer, learning and growth, and internal process perspectives are at a
moderate level on the performance scale. The effective evaluation matrix
uncovered 11 effective solutions that could be grouped under four
categories: (1) innovating organizational structure; (2) effectively
managing processes at construction sites; (3) stepping up cost control;
and (4) improving equipment management. The findings may benefit not only
Vietnamese construction firms but also firms in other developing countries
to identify their strategies, quantify the strategic performance, and
improve their competitive advantages.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 373-386
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Balanced scorecard (BSC), construction companies, SWOT analysis, performance measurement, Vietnam,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801918706
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801918706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:373-386
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yi Zou
Author-X-Name-First: Yi
Author-X-Name-Last: Zou
Author-Name: Sang-Hoon Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Sang-Hoon
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Title: The impacts of change management practices on project change cost performance
Abstract:
Change cost is one of the most sensitive aspects of construction project
management, but it is also one of the most difficult to control. It has
been widely recognized that construction projects that adopt change
management practices generally incur lower change costs in comparison with
project budgets. The relationship between change management practices and
cost performance is investigated. Construction project data for this
research are derived from the Construction Industry Institute Benchmarking
and Metrics database. Multiple one-way ANOVA and linear regression are
performed to investigate the effectiveness of individual change management
practices elements and overall change management practices implementation
in controlling project change cost, respectively. The data analysis
results show that individual change management practices elements have
different levels of leverage in helping to control project change cost and
that using change management practices is truly helpful in lowering the
proportion of change cost in project actual cost.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-393
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Project management, change management, performance improvement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801918714
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801918714
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:387-393
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shamas-Ur-Rehman Toor
Author-X-Name-First: Shamas-Ur-Rehman
Author-X-Name-Last: Toor
Author-Name: Stephen Ogunlana
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ogunlana
Title: Problems causing delays in major construction projects in Thailand
Abstract:
Delays are frequent and recurring in construction projects in developing
countries. Although the principal reasons for construction delays are
comparable across developing countries, several factors pertaining to
local industry, socio-economic and cultural issues and project
characteristics also contribute to construction delays. Questionnaire
surveys and interviews were conducted on a major construction project in
Thailand to explore the most significant problems causing construction
delays. Factors related to designers, contractors and consultants were
rated among the top problems. Issues such as lack of resources, poor
contractor management, shortage of labour, design delays, planning and
scheduling deficiencies, changed orders and contractors' financial
difficulties were also highlighted during the interviews. Notably,
problems such as 'multicultural and multilingual environment causing
ineffective communication', 'large number of participants of project' and
'involvement of several foreign designers and contractors' were rated
among the bottom 10 problems in the 75-item problem inventory. These
findings can be helpful for project managers to mitigate the construction
delays in Thailand. In order to effectively overcome the construction
delays in developing countries, suggestions are made for fundamental and
large-scale reforms in procurement systems, value chain management and
stakeholders' management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 395-408
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Delays, major projects, developing country, Thailand,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801905406
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801905406
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:395-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thanet Aksorn
Author-X-Name-First: Thanet
Author-X-Name-Last: Aksorn
Author-Name: Bonaventura Hadikusumo
Author-X-Name-First: Bonaventura
Author-X-Name-Last: Hadikusumo
Title: Measuring effectiveness of safety programmes in the Thai construction industry
Abstract:
Some safety programmes are more effective than others in improving safety
performance at the project level. The effectiveness of safety programmes
was evaluated by studying 70 construction projects in the Thai
construction sector, examining the relationship between their actual
status and associated site safety performance. The actual status was
assessed by using an evaluation tool developed in compliance with Thai
safety legislation and validated by safety experts. Safety performance was
assessed by using reactive and proactive measures. Particularly, the
accident rate was used as a reactive indicator, while the unsafe act index
and the unsafe condition index were used as proactive indicators. The
results demonstrated that safety performance was influenced by the nature
of implemented safety programmes. First, safety programmes which
positively affect accident rates include accident investigations, jobsite
inspections, control of subcontractors and safety incentives. Secondly,
five programmes, namely jobsite inspections, accident investigations, job
hazard analysis, safety committees and safety record keeping, were found
to have the most contributions to fewer unsafe acts. And thirdly, accident
investigations, jobsite inspections, job hazard analysis, safety
inductions and safety auditing were the most effective programmes in
reducing unsafe conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-421
Issue: 4
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Accident, safety, health and safety, performance improvement, Thailand,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801918722
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801918722
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:4:p:409-421
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John-Paris Pantouvakis
Author-X-Name-First: John-Paris
Author-X-Name-Last: Pantouvakis
Author-Name: Odysseus George Manoliadis
Author-X-Name-First: Odysseus George
Author-X-Name-Last: Manoliadis
Title: A compromise programming model for site selection of borrow pits
Abstract:
Road fill construction requires soil for filling low areas; this soil is
obtained from temporary mineral workings known as 'borrow pits' (BP).
Between a number of possible BPs, the appropriate site should be selected
based upon conflicting econo-technical and environmental criteria aiming
at achieving optimal BP performance while minimizing the adverse impacts
to human and natural resources. For solving this problem a model for BP
selection has been developed by this research using compromise programming
(CP). The model incorporates a hierarchical structure integrating criteria
and sub-criteria whose relative importance is set by the decision makers.
Possible alternative BP sites are subsequently assessed on all these
sub-criteria. Based upon this analysis, the model determines the distance
of each of the possible alternatives from the utopia (ideal) point; the
option with the minimum distance is considered the best compromise. The
relevant concepts are exemplified through the presentation of a case study
concerning the BP site selection for an Egnatia Motorway section in
northwest Greece. The main conclusion that can be drawn from this work is
that the CP approach is appropriate and valid for BP selection and,
furthermore, it may also be used for other multiple objective
construction-related site selection problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-446
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Multiple objectives, decision making, compromise programming, borrow pits,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801953299
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801953299
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:433-446
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ka-Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka-Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Mike Chun-Kit Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Mike Chun-Kit
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Dan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Dan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: MBNQA-oriented self-assessment quality management system for contractors: fuzzy AHP approach
Abstract:
Many construction clients are not satisfied with the quality performance
achieved on their projects though many contractors are ISO9000:1994
certified. Total quality management (TQM) has been a widely applied
quality management system for obtaining the benefits of better quality and
higher customer satisfaction through the spirit of continuous improvement,
which is also adopted by ISO9001:2000 version. It is believed that TQM can
help to raise quality and productivity in the construction industry.
Self-assessment systems provide an opportunity to design in quality on an
organization-wide basis, in which the self-assessment process allows the
organization to identify its strengths and weaknesses for continuous
improvement actions. A MBNQA-oriented self-assessment quality management
system (SQMS), which is based on the seven criteria of Malcolm Baldrige
National Quality Award (MBNQA), for construction contractors to benchmark,
is proposed. A questionnaire survey of Hong Kong construction quality
management experts, in which a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP)
was employed to calculate the weights of the seven criteria, was carried
out. Remarkable differences for the allocation of weights in the seven
criteria particularly in the input criteria (leadership, strategic
planning and customer and market focus) and the 'results' criterion
compared with the original weights of MBNQA were observed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 447-461
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: TQM, self-assessment, contractor, quality management system, fuzzy AHP,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801965350
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801965350
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:447-461
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kunhui Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhui
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Weiyan Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Weiyan
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Author-Name: Liyin Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Liyin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Project competition intensity (PCI) in the construction market: a case study in China
Abstract:
In economic terminology, 'competition intensity' can be used to mirror to
a certain degree the status of industrial competition in a specific
market, while in the construction market, it particularly involves the
part of project competition intensity (PCI). Based on a road project in
China, two forms of PCI, overt and covert, are identified in this study.
To lower project construction cost thus enabling better project tendering
performance, clients can facilitate higher levels of overt PCI by
tailoring their tendering procedures, whereas, through covert PCI project
competitors can adopt anti-competitive behaviours to attain the expected
works. The difference between overt PCI and covert PCI indicates various
practitioners' perspectives and impact on the levels of competition
intensity in construction. The findings suggest a way to promote PCI
studies in the future, and offer new insights into other parts of
competition intensity in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 463-470
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Competition, project complexity index, attributes, case study, road, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802036136
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802036136
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:463-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Mbachu
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbachu
Title: Conceptual framework for the assessment of subcontractors' eligibility and performance in the construction industry
Abstract:
Subcontractors handle a major portion—about 85%—of all
construction projects in the building industry. The ability of the main
contractor and consultants to deliver the project within time, quality and
cost targets depends largely on the performance of the subcontractors.
Selection of subcontractors on the basis of overall ability to perform is
therefore crucial to successful project delivery. The key criteria for
assessing subcontractors' eligibility for tender invitation and award, and
subsequent performance at the construction stage, were investigated. Using
the descriptive survey method, 243 contractors and 307 subcontractors
registered with the Gauteng Master Builders Association of South Africa
were surveyed. The multi-attribute technique was used to analyse the data.
Results showed that quality record is the most influential criterion for
selecting high performing subcontractors at the pre-qualification stage,
and for assessing their performance at the construction stage. Tender
price exerts the most significant influence in the subcontract award. A
framework was developed for use by main contractors and consultants in the
assessment of the suitability and performance of subcontractors.
Application of the framework to a case study demonstrated its merit as a
tool for ensuring that only high performing subcontractors are selected
for subcontract jobs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-484
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Performance evaluation, pre-qualification, selection, subcontracting, tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801918730
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801918730
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:471-484
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Goh Bee Hua
Author-X-Name-First: Goh Bee
Author-X-Name-Last: Hua
Title: The state of applications of quantitative analysis techniques to construction economics and management (1983 to 2006)
Abstract:
With increasing complexity of construction industry problems, researchers
are experimenting with computationally rigorous techniques with the aim of
seeking innovative solutions. In order to trace the applications of
quantitative analysis techniques to research in the two fields of
construction economics and construction management for both conventional
and AI techniques, the methodology involves compiling all the relevant
papers from the top two ranking construction management journals, namely,
Construction Management and Economics and ASCE's Journal of Construction
Engineering and Management. The period is from 1983 to 2006. The compiled
papers are classified by field, area (or topic), technique applied and
year of publication to enable time series and cross-sectional analyses of
the data. Mainly, the results are depicted as trends when the patterns of
distribution of the papers are plotted over time. The three findings are:
(1) for construction economics, the overall increasing trend is higher for
papers that have applied conventional techniques; (2) for construction
management, there is a clear positive trend for papers that have applied
AI techniques which starts from 1995; and (3) the areas (or topics) of
construction management that have increasingly higher growth in the
application of AI techniques are optimization of site operations and
optimization of project time, cost and resources allocation. Two broad
recommendations are made that relate to advancing the fields of
construction economics and construction management with the view that
researchers must better enable themselves to build tools that incorporate
intelligence as innovative solutions for increasingly complex problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 485-497
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, statistical method, quantitative analysis technique, bibliometrics, construction economics, construction management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801998716
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801998716
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:485-497
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raufdeen Rameezdeen
Author-X-Name-First: Raufdeen
Author-X-Name-Last: Rameezdeen
Author-Name: Thanuja Ramachandra
Author-X-Name-First: Thanuja
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramachandra
Title: Construction linkages in a developing economy: the case of Sri Lanka
Abstract:
The importance of the construction industry stems from its strong
linkages with other sectors of the economy. Despite the extensive research
on input-output analysis and sectoral linkages of construction, a gap is
found in the literature dealing with developing economies. The objective
is to study the construction linkages in a developing economy using
input-output tables compiled since the 1970s in Sri Lanka. Results show
that the share of construction in gross national product and national
income is lower in Sri Lanka than in developed countries. In Sri Lanka,
the share of manufacturing in GNP declined while the share of services has
increased with economic development. The backward linkage indicator ranges
between 0.364 and 0.457 during the period of 1970-2000 while output
multiplier ranges between 1.496 and 1.641 indicating the 'pull effect'.
The 'push effect' is found to be very insignificant. An aggregated
sectoral analysis reveals high dependence of construction on manufacturing
followed by services. The trend analysis shows an increasing dependence of
construction on the services sector. The direct and total inputs from
manufacturing and services have increased over time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 499-506
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Input-output analysis, construction sector, backward linkages, forward linkages, Sri Lanka,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802017706
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802017706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:499-506
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed M. Abdel Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed M. Abdel
Author-X-Name-Last: Aziz
Title: Minimum performance bounds for evaluating contractors performance during construction of highway pavement projects
Abstract:
For project control during construction, evaluating the performance of
contractors is usually established through progress measurement that
compares the actual performance to the planned performance. Corrective
actions and/or performance penalties are then established as relative
measures that judge the actual performance based on current project plans
without considering the performance of other similar projects or the
lowest performance that projects could reach while still being successful.
To establish a generalized benchmark measure and a non-project-specific
project control tool, the concept of minimum performance bounds is
explained in relation to their development for highway pavement projects.
The bounds were developed using constrained-parameters polynomial
regression and cluster analysis for a sample of 497 highway pavement
projects in Washington State. Minimum bounds for small, medium and large
projects were fairly distinguishable signifying the project size effect on
the location and shape of performance bounds. Bounds were also developed
for projects classified by asphalt quantities, contract values, project
duration and project length, being the common criteria used by highway
agencies. Owners would use the minimum performance bounds as control tools
when requesting corrective actions, establishing incentives, imposing
performance penalties, initiating a default clause for substandard
performance, and/or in pre-qualifying contractors for new projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-529
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Performance evaluation, regression analysis, highways, cash flow forecasting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801918748
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801918748
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:507-529
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Nystrom
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Nystrom
Title: A quasi-experimental evaluation of partnering
Abstract:
Construction managerial literature often argues that there are gains to
be made by using partnering. Voices have however been raised to approach
partnering in a more neutral perspective and with well-founded methods of
evaluation. This study can be seen as an outcome of the criticisms against
earlier empirical evaluations by setting out to provide more tangible data
and an improved method for evaluating partnering. A quasi-experimental
method has been adopted in order to control for other affecting variables
and find the unique effect of partnering. This approach strives to match
partnering projects with identical non-partnering projects on every
relevant variable except partnering. Six hundred and twenty three site
meeting minutes from 20 publicly procured projects have been analysed to
extract differences between partnering and non-partnering projects
concerning cost and quality. Time delays, the amount of disputes,
financial outcome and contract flexibility have been used as indicators.
The paper has made a first attempt in trying to push the frontier for
partnering evaluations forward by providing a new type of data (site
meeting minutes) and applying a well-reputed evaluation method
(quasi-experiment). The main result is that no systematic or general
trends can be seen in the material. This result casts a shadow over the
optimistic results from earlier evaluations and suggests that the main
contribution of partnering might lie in its intangible effects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 531-541
Issue: 5
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Partnering, evaluation, research methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802036144
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802036144
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:5:p:531-541
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Brian Atkin
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkin
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Editorial: stakeholder management in construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 549-552
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802142405
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802142405
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:549-552
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Author-Name: Anne Landin
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Landin
Title: A comparative study of factors affecting the external stakeholder management process
Abstract:
There is a natural tendency for stakeholder groups to try to influence
the implementation of construction projects in line with their individual
concerns and needs. This presents a challenge for construction project
managers in analysing and managing these various concerns and needs in a
stakeholder management process falling within the limits of the project.
The aim of the research presented here was to show the factors affecting
the stakeholder management process positively or negatively from the
perspective of project implementation. A comparative study of two railway
projects in Sweden was undertaken to analyse these factors. The study
showed that the outcome of the stakeholder management process depended
mainly upon how well the project managers presented the benefits and
negative consequences brought on by the construction project. Techniques
and tools exist for this purpose, but must be appropriate, and these are
discussed in the context of the two projects. The challenge for project
managers is to implement the project in such a way that the effects of
negative impacts are minimized and, if possible, the benefits for all
stakeholders are maximized. Project managers must communicate and interact
with stakeholders so that the perceived benefits and negative impacts are
realistically defined.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-561
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Customer relations, stakeholder, railways, Sweden,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701821810
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701821810
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:553-561
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Ward
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ward
Author-Name: Chris Chapman
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Chapman
Title: Stakeholders and uncertainty management in projects
Abstract:
Stakeholders are a major source of uncertainty in projects. This
uncertainty encompasses who relevant stakeholders are, how they could
influence a project, and what their motives are in so far as their actions
affect project activity. A generic project uncertainty management process
framework is employed to provide a structure for a review of approaches to
analysing stakeholders and related uncertainty management issues. This
framework, the SHAMPU (Shape, Harness, and Manage Project Uncertainty)
process, consists of nine phases: project definition, focusing the
uncertainty management process, identifying sources of uncertainty,
structuring issues, clarifying ownership, estimating variability,
evaluating implications of uncertainty, harnessing plans, and managing
implementation. A variety of approaches to stakeholder analysis are
considered in relation to these phases. In particular, characterizing
projects on a 'hard-soft' spectrum suggests generic strategies for
managing stakeholder expectations and fostering trust between
stakeholders. An important conclusion is that a systematic approach to
stakeholder management is facilitated by the use of project uncertainty
management processes that distinguish different stages of the project life
cycle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 563-577
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Project management, risk management, stakeholder, uncertainty,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801998708
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801998708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:563-577
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Campbell Fraser
Author-X-Name-First: Campbell
Author-X-Name-Last: Fraser
Author-Name: Chunxue Zhu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunxue
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhu
Title: Stakeholder perception of construction site managers' effectiveness
Abstract:
Contemporary management thinking pays a great deal of attention to
'stakeholder theory', positing that sustainable success rests, to a great
extent, with the systematic consideration of the needs and goals of all
key stakeholders. This paper examines managerial effectiveness under the
light of stakeholder theory. Using multivariate analysis, it investigates
perceptions of importance of the dimensions of effectiveness held by a
sample of 61 managers and 268 key project stakeholders in all major cities
in Australia through a performance measurement tool comprising 52
performance elements. The findings of the research show that perceptions
vary significantly across professional groups as well as high and low
performing managers. The application the method presented in this paper
can provide a framework for improvement of both managerial performance and
stakeholder relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 579-590
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Stakeholder management, managerial effectiveness, performance measurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802036151
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802036151
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:579-590
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ezekiel Chinyio
Author-X-Name-First: Ezekiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinyio
Author-Name: Akintola Akintoye
Author-X-Name-First: Akintola
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintoye
Title: Practical approaches for engaging stakeholders: findings from the UK
Abstract:
Principles for managing stakeholders are discussed in the context of UK
construction practice. The number of stakeholders in a modern construction
project can be large, presenting numerous interfaces that have to be
managed. Meanwhile, each organization has its own characteristic
disposition. Therefore, the interactions between diverse organizations in
a project pose a high potential for conflicting stakes. Against this
background, stakeholder management assumes high priority. Qualitative
research was used to investigate the practice of stakeholder management
with 12 UK companies in the construction sector. Interviews were held with
these companies and content analysis was used to identify themes that
demonstrate effective stakeholder management practice. Construct validity
and a workshop underpinned the verification of underlying and frontline
approaches for managing stakeholders. The underlying approaches include
maintaining existing relationships, providing top-level support and being
proactive while the frontline approaches include the use of negotiations,
trade-offs, incentives and concessions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 591-599
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Communication, conflict, corporate governance, relationship, negotiation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802078310
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802078310
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:591-599
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vivek Narain Mathur
Author-X-Name-First: Vivek Narain
Author-X-Name-Last: Mathur
Author-Name: Andrew Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: Simon Austin
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Title: Conceptualizing stakeholder engagement in the context of sustainability and its assessment
Abstract:
Stakeholder engagement in construction projects can be conceptualized in
different ways. It can be seen from a strategic management perspective
aimed at capturing knowledge, increasing ownership of the project by
users, reducing conflict, encouraging innovation and facilitating spin-off
partnerships. From an ethical perspective, meaningful stakeholder
engagement can be seen to enhance inclusive decision making, promote
equity, enhance local decision making and build social capital. The
benefits from both of these perspectives are vital for sustainability;
however, stakeholder engagement can also be seen from the perspective of
an opportunity for social learning—a social process where diverse
stakeholders share a common forum, learn about each other's values,
reflect upon their own values and create a shared vision and shared
objectives. Dialogue is also useful in increasing awareness, changing
attitudes and affecting behaviours. Existing practices view stakeholder
engagement: mostly from a management perspective; sometimes from an
ethical perspective; less often as a combination of the two; and rarely
have any element of the social learning perspective. There is a need for
an approach that combines all the three perspectives if sustainability is
to be pursued. A dialogue-oriented approach to integrated sustainability
assessment could provide an ideal means to do so.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 601-609
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Stakeholder, sustainability, strategic management, ethics, social learning, dialogue, sustainability assessment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802061233
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802061233
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:601-609
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Yan Ki Fiona Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Yan Ki Fiona
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Stakeholder management through empowerment: modelling project success
Abstract:
Stakeholder management is part of the project management process and this
ongoing research builds on previous studies in the field of relationship
management in Hong Kong and Australia and presents a testable stakeholder
management process model in which the concepts of empowerment,
organizational culture, trust and commitment are used as a basis for
exploring the process. This may appear somewhat paradoxical to the reader
as project managers, traditionally, have been seen to attempt to mollify
stakeholders while focusing their attention on the details of project
management rather than to empower stakeholders to have a significant input
to the project—empowerment being seen to encourage 'interference'
from non-specialists into the managers' domain. This change in attitude to
stakeholders marks a culture change in the real estate and construction
industry, brought about by an increased emphasis on relationship
management. The research reported in this paper looks at the issues of
stakeholder management via a research model that has identified project
contextual factors which, through perceptual processes, influence
empowerment and so the outcomes of the project. Hence, the problem
addressed is how and why relationship management and stakeholder
management are different in two unique cultures and what elements can be
considered common and what elements are different.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-623
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Australia, empowerment, Hong Kong, relationship management, stakeholder management model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802071182
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802071182
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:611-623
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Krisen Moodley
Author-X-Name-First: Krisen
Author-X-Name-Last: Moodley
Author-Name: Nigel Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Nigel
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Christopher Nigel Preece
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher Nigel
Author-X-Name-Last: Preece
Title: Stakeholder matrix for ethical relationships in the construction industry
Abstract:
The construction industry in general has a poor ethical reputation, being
widely regarded by the public as a sector with corrupt practices, health
and safety failures, and causing damage to the environment. A modern 21st
century industry needs to consider how it orientates itself to the dilemma
of conflicting stakeholder and ethical demands. The implications for
stakeholders of the all pervasive drive for globalization in the
construction industry is reviewed, leading to a consideration of the
ethical relationship interfaces that construction organizations have with
their stakeholders from the viewpoint of ethics, social contracts and
corporate responsibility. Building upon earlier work a prototype
stakeholder ethical responsibility matrix (SERM) is proposed as a
management tool. Stakeholder management using an ethical perspective can
meet the needs of both agency and stakeholder requirements. The
increasingly complex global construction industry presents many challenges
as key business decisions in construction are in reality moral decisions
also. A completed version of the SERM offers a way forward for managing
the ethical dimension of construction industry decision making.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-632
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Stakeholders, ethics, social contracts, responsibility matrix,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801965368
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801965368
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:625-632
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Title: The credibility gap in stakeholder management: ethics and evidence of relationship management
Abstract:
The predominant utilitarian conceptualization of stakeholder management
within construction is reviewed. Utilitarianism will be contrasted with an
ethics of nurture and care perspective. A credibility gap is identified in
the utilitarian approach whereby individual parties in positions of power
are unable to maximize net well-being. The relationship management concept
will be outlined and located within the ethics of care, showing how
aggregated behaviours can be linked to this approach. Behaviours that
management can facilitate will be outlined and links made with the ethics
of care concerning stakeholder management. The analysis will conceptually
establish how the credibility gap in stakeholder management can be
bridged. Research into relationships within PPP/PFI projects will be
explored. The relationships between the SPV and the public sector will
provide a particular focus. Recommendations for practice and future
research will draw the analysis to a conclusion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 633-643
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Ethics, relationship management, stakeholder management, utility,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801905414
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801905414
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:633-643
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Author-Name: Lynda Margaret Bourne
Author-X-Name-First: Lynda Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Bourne
Author-Name: Arthur Shelley
Author-X-Name-First: Arthur
Author-X-Name-Last: Shelley
Title: Influence, stakeholder mapping and visualization
Abstract:
Stakeholder identification, management and engagement are recognized as
key project management skills; however, this is a 'soft' skill that
requires both intuition and a strong capacity for analysis. There are few
tools and methodologies to which people undertaking stakeholder management
activities can turn. Highly complex problem solving activities, such as
stakeholder management, can benefit from high level conceptual approaches
that allow those involved to see clearly or to visualize the situation
being examined. Metaphors, particularly highly visual representations of
complex situations, can be very helpful in triggering simplification of
complex situations to a level where understanding of the situation can
yield fruitful results in moving forward to developing plans and actions.
Visualization tools for stakeholder management can be of great value.
Describing stakeholder visualization tools that can be used to develop a
stakeholder engagement strategy can therefore raise awareness of these
tools. The development and use of two such tools are described. While they
are both independently useful they could be effectively combined. This
prospect could reduce the chances of project failure and enhance success
through having clearer pictures of stakeholder influence patterns.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 645-658
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Stakeholder management, organization behaviour, organizational politics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190701882390
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190701882390
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:645-658
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Chapman
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Chapman
Author-Name: Stephen Ward
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ward
Title: Developing and implementing a balanced incentive and risk sharing contract
Abstract:
An important aspect of stakeholder management in construction projects is
the contractual approach to managing risk and uncertainty. Clients need to
choose an appropriate form of contract from available common options, like
fixed price, design and build (D&B), and design, build, finance and
operate (DBFO). Facilitating appropriate choices is usefully addressed
within a balanced incentive and risk sharing (BIARS) contract framework,
'balance' implying incentives that align client and contractor objectives.
What this means in operational terms, within the context of a best
practice approach to project risk and uncertainty management, is explored
and clarified. The work is based on a mix of conventionally funded
academic research and consultancy-based research. It was stimulated by the
need to explain these ideas to a client using target contracts with
unbalanced risk sharing, a common practice. Best practice requires a
balanced approach, and the difference is significant. Best practice also
involves a number of other relevant features. The key conclusion is that
full integration of contract choice decisions and other aspects of a best
practice approach to risk and uncertainty management is practical and
advantageous, and a reasonable next step in the evolution of best
practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 659-669
Issue: 6
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Contract conditions, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802014760
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802014760
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:6:p:659-669
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ehsan Eshtehardian
Author-X-Name-First: Ehsan
Author-X-Name-Last: Eshtehardian
Author-Name: Abbas Afshar
Author-X-Name-First: Abbas
Author-X-Name-Last: Afshar
Author-Name: Reza Abbasnia
Author-X-Name-First: Reza
Author-X-Name-Last: Abbasnia
Title: Time-cost optimization: using GA and fuzzy sets theory for uncertainties in cost
Abstract:
Uncertainties should be considered in any time-cost trade-off problems
when minimizing project cost and duration, which leads to the so-called
stochastic time-cost trade-off problem. A new approach to investigate
stochastic time-cost trade-off problems employing fuzzy logic theory is
presented. The proposed approach fully embeds the fuzzy structure of the
uncertainties in total direct cost into the model. An appropriate GA is
used to develop a solution to the multi-objective fuzzy time cost model.
The accepted risk level of the project manager is defined through α
cut approach for which a separate Pareto front with set of non-dominated
solutions has been developed. To compare the alternative set of options
for any assumed project duration, associated fuzzy costs for different
values of α cut are ranked employing two appropriate approaches for
fuzzy costs comparison. The proposed models are applied to solve two
benchmark test problems. It is shown that the models facilitate the
decision-making process by selecting specified risk levels and employing
the associated Pareto front.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 679-691
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Time-cost, optimization, uncertainties, fuzzy sets, Pareto front,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802036128
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802036128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:679-691
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marco Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Marco
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Graham Ive
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Ive
Title: The compilation methods of building price indices in Britain: a critical review
Abstract:
The major message that I will be trying to convey is that we often
misinterpret the available data because of inadequate attention to how
they are produced … (Griliches, 1994, p. 2) The importance of
accurate measurement and pertinent modelling of the general level of
construction prices cannot be overemphasized. Uses range from
macroeconomic statistics such as real value of investment to micro-level
budgeting like construction project price forecasts. Numerous research
studies posit that the measured productivity growth rates of the
construction sector are distorted and that an inaccurate general
construction price index is a main villain of the piece. The academic
research published in this arena has primarily focused on models to
forecast or predict changes in the general construction price level,
whereas this research scrutinizes the compilation methods of the general
construction price index in Britain and finds that the indices measure the
price movement of more traditional building trades but almost completely
ignore the mechanical and electrical services. The existing indices also
do not gauge the tender price movements of new building work that is not
procured through the conventional lump sum BQs route, such as many
projects in private housing and PFI markets. These make out a case for
allowing resources to the project of developing alternative methodologies:
(1) a revised version of the present method; and (2) hedonic price index.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 693-705
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Tender price index, construction output deflator, index compilation methodology, construction statistics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802043918
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802043918
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:693-705
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiao-Hua Jin
Author-X-Name-First: Xiao-Hua
Author-X-Name-Last: Jin
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Title: Interpreting risk allocation mechanism in public-private partnership projects: an empirical study in a transaction cost economics perspective
Abstract:
Risk allocation in public-private partnership (PPP) projects is currently
claimed as capability driven. While lacking theoretical support, the claim
is often 'violated' by current industrial practice. There is thus a need
for formal mechanisms to interpret why a particular risk is retained by
government in one project while transferred to private partners in
another. From the viewpoint of transaction cost economics (TCE),
integrated with the resource-based view (RBV) of organizational
capabilities, this paper proposed a theoretical framework for
understanding risk allocation practice in PPP projects. The theories
underlying the major constructs and their links were articulated. Data
gathered from an industry-wide survey were used to test the framework. The
results of multiple linear regression (MLR) generally support the proposed
framework. It has been found that partners' risk management routine,
mechanism, commitment, cooperation history, and uncertainties associated
with project risk management could serve to determine the risk allocation
strategies adopted in a PPP project. This theoretical framework thus
provides both government and private agencies with a logical and complete
understanding of the process of selecting the allocation strategy for a
particular risk in PPP projects. Moreover, it could be utilized to steer
the risk allocation strategy by controlling certain critical determinants
identified in the study. Study limitations and future research directions
have also been set out.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 707-721
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Risk management, risk allocation, organizational capability, commitment, uncertainty, transaction cost economics, PPP,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801998682
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801998682
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:707-721
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ping Yung
Author-X-Name-First: Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Yung
Author-Name: Lawrence Wai Chung Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Lawrence Wai Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Title: Supervising for quality: an empirical examination of institutional arrangements in China's construction industry
Abstract:
Most of the literature on the rapid changes in institutional arrangements
in China's construction industry have either limited themselves to a
description of these changes or relied on opinion surveys to draw
conclusions. Few researchers have conducted serious empirical
examinations, especially regarding the ownership of developers or
contractors. To fill this gap, we empirically examined the effectiveness
of compulsory construction supervision arrangements on the quality of
construction projects in mainland China, explained the seemingly
inexplicable phenomenon that projects undertaken by state-owned
enterprises (SOEs) are of better quality than those undertaken by
non-SOEs, explored the law of tort in relation to construction supervision
firms, tested the published official data from 1991 to 2001 on
construction 'good quality rates' with regression against per capita
values and powers of machinery as well as the capital-output ratios of
both SOEs and non-SOEs, identified the determining factors affecting
construction quality, and demonstrated the limitations of using the
principal-agent theory in analysing the construction industry. The results
supported the corollary of the Coase Theorem that resource allocation in
terms of output quality will be affected by changes in the institutional
arrangements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 723-737
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Construction supervision, construction quality, state-owned enterprise, Coase Theorem, principal-agent theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801998690
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801998690
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:723-737
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Brochner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brochner
Author-Name: Bo-Christer Bjork
Author-X-Name-First: Bo-Christer
Author-X-Name-Last: Bjork
Title: Where to submit? Journal choice by construction management authors
Abstract:
Publishers of academic journals can be seen as service providers to
authors, in addition to the traditional role of providers of research
results to readers. The purpose of this study was to analyse how author
choices of journal in construction management are affected by quality and
service perceptions. Seven journals were identified and for each 2006
article, one author e-mail address was extracted. A web-based
questionnaire was sent to 397 authors and 35% responded. It was found that
there were three journals regularly followed by at least half the
respondents. Most of the other four journals have scopes broader than
construction management and receive lower scores for characteristics such
as impact on researchers. No open access journals were included, and
authors in the field of construction management rarely post openly
accessible copies of their manuscripts or publications on the web. Author
ranking of journals for their next submission is found to be related to
general criteria such as academic status, circulation figures and ISI
indexation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-749
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Construction management, research policy, scientific journals,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802017698
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802017698
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:739-749
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Athena Roumboutsos
Author-X-Name-First: Athena
Author-X-Name-Last: Roumboutsos
Author-Name: Konstantinos Anagnostopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Konstantinos
Author-X-Name-Last: Anagnostopoulos
Title: Public-private partnership projects in Greece: risk ranking and preferred risk allocation
Abstract:
Project participants, through experience, have an initial perception and
predisposition towards risk and the types of risks they are willing and
able to undertake. This is equally true for parties interested in
public-private partnership (PPP) projects. These initial positions have
been registered for the major Greek PPP market stakeholders potentially
involved in a PPP arrangement through a survey covering all candidate
construction companies, interested financing institutes and a number of
public sector entities to be involved in PPPs. Findings revealed that
stakeholders were, for the majority of risks identified, in agreement as
to preferred risk allocation. Risk allocation preferences for construction
companies were compared with similar findings for the UK, a mature PPP
market, indicating a possible learning/maturing process based on the
particular country background. Conclusions add to other surveys carried
out on the subject and should enable public sector clients to establish a
more efficient framework for risk allocation, thus reducing negotiations
prior to contract award and minimizing the risk of poor risk distribution.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 751-763
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Public-private partnerships, risk allocation, stakeholders,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802140086
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802140086
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:751-763
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Greg Distiller
Author-X-Name-First: Greg
Author-X-Name-Last: Distiller
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Job satisfaction of South African quantity surveyors: an empirical study
Abstract:
A web-based national questionnaire survey of the opinions of registered
South African quantity surveyors was undertaken to establish their levels
of job satisfaction. Issues explored included demographic factors; factors
influencing job satisfaction; choice of career; gender and race in the
workplace; and harassment and discrimination at work. Generally, it can be
said that South African quantity surveyors like their jobs. Respondents
tended to be poorly informed about career prospects when embarking on
their careers and, although salary was a main driver in respect of career
choice, many quantity surveyors 'drifted' into the career. However, most
respondents claimed that they would choose the same career again.
Important factors influencing job satisfaction for quantity surveyors were
found to include: personal satisfaction in doing the work; a low degree of
supervision; participating in decision-making; undertaking challenging and
creative work; and receiving recognition for achievements. Not all
motivators were present in the respondents' workplaces, particularly
participation in decision making and receiving regular feedback on
performance. Women quantity surveyors perceive the profession to be male
dominated, especially with regard to attitudes towards maternity leave and
flexible working hours. The findings provide a valuable basis for
indicating how quantity surveying firms can create an environment more
conducive to enhancing job satisfaction of professional staff.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 765-780
Issue: 7
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Job satisfaction, quantity surveyors, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190801998724
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190801998724
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:7:p:765-780
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: First and second price independent values sealed bid procurement auctions: some scalar equilibrium results
Abstract:
A great body of knowledge exists on the theory of auctions and
competitive bidding that is of potential relevance to construction
contract tendering. Most of this, however, contains
assumptions—such as perfect information—that are unlikely to
be tenable in practice. The aim, therefore, is to examine the effects of
relaxing some of the more restrictive of these assumptions to align more
closely with the construction tendering situation. In particular, the
effects of additive and multiplicative (scalar) mark-ups in equilibrium
are examined for first and second price auctions in situations where
bidders have different, uncertain, costs. This is illustrated first by
Monte Carlo simulation—by which bids are generated randomly from a
normal distribution for six bidders and mark-ups applied systematically
for each bidder in turn until equilibrium is reached. An extensive
numerical analysis is then applied to obtain equilibrium results for both
mark-up values and expected profit from the simple symmetric case through
to more complex asymmetric cases for the uniform and normal distributions.
In general, it is found that first price auction bidders with relatively
high cv levels and a larger number of bidders involved bid higher in
equilibrium but can expect little profit unless the number of bidders
involved is small. Where there are asymmetries, stronger bidders (i.e.
those with lower costs and less variability) bid much higher and achieve
much higher profits in equilibrium. From the seller's point of view, it is
cheaper, in equilibrium, to have a homogeneous group of low variability
bidders. The work contributes to the body of knowledge on the economic
theory of auctions by closing some of the gap between theory and practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 787-803
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Auction theory, tendering, bidding, equilibrium, mark-up,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802175678
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802175678
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:787-803
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jieh-Haur Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jieh-Haur
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Li-Ren Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Li-Ren
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: W. H. Chen
Author-X-Name-First: W. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: C. K. Chang
Author-X-Name-First: C. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: Case-based allocation of onsite supervisory manpower for construction projects
Abstract:
In the highly competitive worldwide construction industry, a slight
inaccuracy of estimation can easily cause the loss of a project. Erroneous
experience-based cost estimates or allocations of onsite supervisory
manpower often offset the profit gained from the project and may even
jeopardize the management processes. To counter these types of problems,
we develop a model using mathematical analysis and case-based reasoning to
automate the allocation of onsite supervisory manpower and its costs. The
method is founded upon laborious data collection processes and analysis by
matching statistical assumptions, and is applicable to construction
projects for residential buildings, industrial office buildings,
commercial buildings and industrial construction. In the modelling the
costs and allocation of onsite supervisory manpower are quantified for
both owners and contractors before initiating or bidding on the projects.
The findings confirm that the degree of variation of the model predictions
has an accuracy rate at 88.47%. Single-site construction projects with the
following characteristics: a non-crashing schedule, a floor area of less
than 35 000 m2, a height of less than 50m, can be accurately
predicted and the assignment of supervisory manpower feasibly automated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 805-814
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Allocation, human resource management, onsite, overheads, supervisory manpower costs,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802014778
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802014778
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:805-814
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Y. H. Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Y. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Construction and economic development: the case of Hong Kong
Abstract:
The role of construction in economic development is an important issue
facing the construction research community, government and international
development agencies. Based on empirical analyses, the complexities of the
relationship between construction activity and stage of economic
development in Hong Kong were examined. With time series data, Granger
causality test results show that the construction output particularly the
infrastructure sector drives the economic growth of Hong Kong, and not
vice versa. Findings further indicate that the role of the local
construction industry changes as the economy matures from newly
industrializing country (NIC) to advanced industrialized country (AIC)
status, as revealed by the diminishing rate of capacity addition by
construction as well as the growing maintenance and repair sector. This
complies with Bon's inverted U-shaped relationship between construction
activity and gross domestic product (GDP). However, the proposition of
'volume follows share' is not supported since the indigenous construction
investments still sustain for the service-oriented economy which
inevitably needs commercial development and logistics infrastructure to
provide the services. The results may be significant for policy makers in
NICs, in the long run, to formulate corporate and industrial policies to
chart out a viable and sustainable course to revive the vigour of the
industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 815-826
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Bon curve, construction industry, investments, economic development, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802189927
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802189927
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:815-826
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Rob Dorrington
Author-X-Name-First: Rob
Author-X-Name-Last: Dorrington
Author-Name: Greg Distiller
Author-X-Name-First: Greg
Author-X-Name-Last: Distiller
Author-Name: Harry Lake
Author-X-Name-First: Harry
Author-X-Name-Last: Lake
Author-Name: Sarika Besesar
Author-X-Name-First: Sarika
Author-X-Name-Last: Besesar
Title: HIV/AIDS in the South African construction industry: an empirical study
Abstract:
South Africa has one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates, with 11%
of South Africans currently estimated to be HIV positive. The construction
industry has one of the highest prevalence rates of any economic sector.
To indicate the nature and extent of HIV/AIDS in the SA construction
industry and to establish the degree of association between certain risk
factors and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, the results of HIV tests on
10 243 construction employees drawn from 55 companies nationwide are
reported. In addition to the HIV test, a test for tuberculosis (TB) was
conducted but proved inconclusive. Permanently employed, semi-skilled
operators and drivers, as well as skilled employees, have the highest
prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS; even greater than casual labourers. The group
displaying the next highest prevalence is temporarily employed general
labourers. With regard to age, middle-aged employees were shown to be the
most at risk. Geographically, KwaZulu-Natal exhibits the highest HIV
prevalence rate, with the Western Cape the lowest. It is recommended that
a compulsory, industry-wide initiative be adopted, funded via levies,
involving education, testing and treatment programmes supported via formal
certification as part of the completion of work certification process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 827-839
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, construction industry, construction worker, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802061225
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802061225
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:827-839
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Title: Application of AHP in improving construction productivity from a management perspective
Abstract:
Poor productivity of construction workers is one of the major causes of
cost overruns and schedule slippages in construction projects. Anecdotal
evidence suggests that workers' attitudes towards higher productivity may
not be limited to purely financial rewards, but inherently linked to many
other latent factors. Some building construction projects in Melbourne are
compared to each other to ascertain the factors that influence
productivity. The factors and their relative importance impacting on
workers' productivity are investigated by using a structured questionnaire
survey approach. The survey was formulated with 72 questions covering
three broad categories, namely (1) project planning; (2)
incentives/disincentives; and (3) job satisfaction. Perceived best
practices that impact on improvement of productivity on site were
identified from 19 targeted experts. Analytical hierarchy process shows
that the biggest influences on productivity are planning and programming.
The outcome of this study should assist management decisions in
determining the effect on productivity and suggest possible improvements
to establish the appropriate management procedures for most productive use
of labour resources in construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 841-854
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Analytical hierarchy process, productivity, site management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802244789
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802244789
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:841-854
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cindy Menches
Author-X-Name-First: Cindy
Author-X-Name-Last: Menches
Author-Name: Awad Hanna
Author-X-Name-First: Awad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanna
Author-Name: Erik Nordheim
Author-X-Name-First: Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Nordheim
Author-Name: Jeffrey Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Jeffrey
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Title: Impact of pre-construction planning and project characteristics on performance in the US electrical construction industry
Abstract:
The mild recession experienced in the early part of this decade forced
many US electrical contractors to reduce their profit margins as a way to
win jobs and survive economically. However, to make up for lower profit
margins, contractors turned to 'better planning' as a method for improving
their efficiency and increasing their profitability. In general,
contractors believe that better planning contributes to better project
performance, but the evidence has been mostly anecdotal. A study was
conducted recently that transformed anecdotal evidence about the impact of
pre-construction planning on performance into quantitative evidence. The
research resulted in the development of a model pre-construction planning
process that was based on outstanding projects that were well planned and
performed well. The study quantified the relationship between
pre-construction planning activities, project characteristics and
performance, and a separate validation study found that those projects
that performed a comprehensive planning process similar to the model
planning process were more likely to achieve their estimated work hours,
profit, budget and completion goals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 855-869
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Assessments, construction planning, efficiency, electrical measurement, performance measurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802213511
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802213511
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:855-869
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Brenda Yip
Author-X-Name-First: Brenda
Author-X-Name-Last: Yip
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Oi Ling Siu
Author-X-Name-First: Oi Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Siu
Title: Coping strategies as moderators in the relationship between role overload and burnout
Abstract:
The moderating effect coping strategies have on the relationship between
role overload and burnout was investigated in a sample of 222 professional
engineers in the construction industry. A four-factor model of coping
strategies, based on the Ways of Coping Questionnaire (WCQ) revised scale,
was identified to consist of rational problem solving, resigned
distancing, seeking support/ventilation and passive wishful thinking. The
results revealed that only rational problem solving significantly
moderated the relationship between role overload and all three dimensions
of burnout, i.e. emotional exhaustion, cynicism and reduced professional
efficacy; whereas the moderating effect of resigned distancing and seeking
support/ventilation was significant only on emotional exhaustion and
cynicism respectively. Passive wishful thinking failed to demonstrate a
significant moderating effect on any of the burnout dimensions at all. The
importance and methods of incorporating effective coping strategies as a
successful intervention for managing burnout at individual, organizational
and institutional levels are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 871-882
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Burnout, coping, moderating effect, role overload,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802213529
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802213529
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:871-882
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Saleh Abu Dabous
Author-X-Name-First: Saleh Abu
Author-X-Name-Last: Dabous
Author-Name: Sabah Alkass
Author-X-Name-First: Sabah
Author-X-Name-Last: Alkass
Title: Decision support method for multi-criteria selection of bridge rehabilitation strategy
Abstract:
Bridge management is the decision-making process for selecting and
prioritizing the actions necessary to maintain a bridge within acceptable
limits of safety and serviceability. The current decision-making approach
for bridge management is based on optimizing the life cycle cost of the
structure. This is a single criterion decision-making process which does
not include the indirect impact of the maintenance, repair and replacement
actions. Sound bridge management decisions should be made through balanced
consideration of multiple and conflicting criteria. This requirement
motivated the development of a multi-criteria decision support method for
bridge deck management. The method is based on a modified analytic
hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate and rank alternative bridge
rehabilitation strategies. The modified AHP provides an effective
analytical tool to deal with complex decision making and has the following
features: (1) multi-criteria decision-making process; (2) accounts for the
uncertainty associated with the pairwise comparison values; and (3)
provides a sensitive evaluation of consistency in judgements. The proposed
decision support method is a rational decision-making technique for bridge
management. The method practicality and validity is demonstrated using a
real case study from the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 883-893
Issue: 8
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: AHP, bridge, decision, rehabilitation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802071190
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802071190
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:8:p:883-893
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Iain Cameron
Author-X-Name-First: Iain
Author-X-Name-Last: Cameron
Author-Name: Billy Hare
Author-X-Name-First: Billy
Author-X-Name-Last: Hare
Title: Planning tools for integrating health and safety in construction
Abstract:
Approaches to planning for health and safety in the UK construction
industry have been criticised for being bureaucratic and irrelevant,
especially if done by individuals in isolation. This paper reports on the
findings of a research project, commissioned by the UK Health and Safety
Executive, which investigated the integration of health and safety with
construction project planning. A combination of group and individual
interviews were undertaken, with qualitative methods of analysis, to
develop integrated management tools for all members of the project team.
Eight integrated tools were developed: a responsibility chart; an option
evaluation chart; health and safety hazard workshops; safety information
on drawings; red-amber-green lists; health and safety milestones on
programmes; and a design change control process. These were found to aid
project planning while simultaneously integrating health and safety
issues. However, recommendations are given on how their application can be
improved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 899-909
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Health, management, qualitative, planning, safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802175660
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802175660
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:899-909
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samuel Laryea
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Laryea
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Title: How contractors price risk in bids: theory and practice
Abstract:
Formal and analytical models that contractors can use to assess and price
project risk at the tender stage have proliferated in recent years.
However, they are rarely used in practice. Introducing more models would,
therefore, not necessarily help. A better understanding is needed of how
contractors arrive at a bid price in practice, and how, and in what
circumstances, risk apportionment actually influences pricing levels. More
than 60 proposed risk models for contractors that are published in
journals were examined and classified. Then exploratory interviews with
five UK contractors and documentary analyses on how contractors price work
generally and risk specifically were carried out to help in comparing the
propositions from the literature to what contractors actually do. No
comprehensive literature on the real bidding processes used in practice
was found, and there is no evidence that pricing is systematic. Hence,
systematic risk and pricing models for contractors may have no justifiable
basis. Contractors process their bids through certain tendering gateways.
They acknowledge the risk that they should price. However, the final
settlement depends on a set of complex, micro-economic factors. Hence,
risk accountability may be smaller than its true cost to the contractor.
Risk apportionment occurs at three stages of the whole bid-pricing
process. However, analytical approaches tend not to incorporate this,
although they could.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 911-924
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Contractor, interview and documents, pricing, risk apportionment, tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802317718
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802317718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:911-924
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nicola Chiara
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiara
Author-Name: Michael Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Title: Variance models for project financial risk analysis with applications to greenfield BOT highway projects
Abstract:
Assessment of BOT project financial risk is generally performed by
combining Monte Carlo simulation with discounted cash flow analysis. The
outcomes of this risk assessment depend, to a significant extent, upon the
total project uncertainty, which aggregates aleatory and epistemic
uncertainties of key risk variables. Unlike aleatory uncertainty,
modelling epistemic uncertainty is a rather difficult endeavour. In fact,
BOT epistemic uncertainty may vary according to the significant
information disclosed during the concession period. Two properties
generally characterize the stochastic behaviour of the uncertainty of BOT
epistemic variables: (1) the learning property and (2) the increasing
uncertainty property. A new family of Markovian processes, the Martingale
variance model and the general variance model, are proposed as an
alternative modelling tool for BOT risk variables. Unlike current
stochastic models, the proposed models can be adapted to incorporate a
risk analyst's view of properties (1) and (2). A case study, a
hypothetical BOT transportation project, illustrates that failing to
properly model a project's epistemic uncertainty may lead to a biased
estimate of the project's financial risk. The variance models may support,
guide and extend the thinking process of risk analysts who face the
challenging task of representing subjective assessments of key risk
factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 925-939
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Build-operate-transfer, Monte Carlo simulation, risk analysis, stochastic models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802259027
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802259027
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:925-939
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: The role of social capital in knowledge sharing: the case of a specialist rock construction company
Abstract:
In the discourse on knowledge management, the concept of social capital
plays a key role as the mediator of individual know-how or 'human capital'
(i.e. individual cognitive or embodied skills and know-how) and structural
'organizational capital', i.e. knowledge embedded in the routines and
standard operating procedures of an organization. A study of a Swedish
specialist rock construction company, ConCo, demonstrates how the social
network acquired by individual site managers is mobilized when
unanticipated events occur in day-to-day working life. Rather than using a
written or mediated system of knowledge sharing (i.e. Intranets or
databases), the site managers relied primarily on verbal communication
with their peers. Whenever they encounter a problem, site managers talk to
their colleagues or call experts outside the firm in order to get credible
and useful advice on how to handle precarious situations. One of the
implications of the study is that conceiving of knowledge not as an
individual property but as a social accomplishment may enable more
detailed understanding of how intellectual resources are used in the
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 941-951
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Social capital, learning-by-doing, knowledge management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802259035
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802259035
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:941-951
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lara Jaillon
Author-X-Name-First: Lara
Author-X-Name-Last: Jaillon
Author-Name: C. S. Poon
Author-X-Name-First: C. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Poon
Title: Sustainable construction aspects of using prefabrication in dense urban environment: a Hong Kong case study
Abstract:
The construction industry in Hong Kong heavily relies on conventional
cast in-situ construction involving extensive use of timber formworks and
wet trades. In 2001, the Construction Industry Review Committee (CIRC)
report described the construction activities in Hong Kong as 'labour
intensive, dangerous and polluting', in which 'built products are rarely
defect-free'. Globally, however, the recent trend is prefabrication, which
is being increasingly used in the building industry, alleviating some of
the environmental burdens associated with conventional construction. The
sustainable construction aspects of adopting prefabrication in high-rise
buildings are examined, and the economic, environmental and social aspects
of using prefabrication are assessed. A questionnaire survey was
administered to experienced professionals and case studies of seven recent
residential and non-residential buildings in Hong Kong were conducted. The
findings revealed that environmental, economic and social benefits of
using prefabrication were significant when compared to conventional
construction methods. This implies that a wider use of prefabrication
techniques could contribute to sustainable construction in a dense urban
environment like Hong Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 953-966
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: High-rise buildings, Hong Kong, precast concrete, prefabrication, sustainable construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802259043
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802259043
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:953-966
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-Lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: The pricing of conditional performance guarantees with risky collateral
Abstract:
Conditional performance guarantees with risky collaterals are specific
bonding instruments that are not credit extensions or require only a
service fee. Instead, they resemble a credit default swap (CDS) that is
essentially an insurance contract and can thus be priced accordingly. A
CDS-based model is proposed here for pricing these instruments. The model
incorporates both contractor default probability and the recovery risk of
collateral. It also allows for explicit specification of bonding
parameters such as the promised amount of payment in the event of default.
For model implementation, a quasi-KMV-Merton approach is proposed for the
estimation of contractor default probability. The historical market prices
and basic accounting data of publicly traded construction firms in the
Taiwan Economic Journal Database (TEJD) are used to test the model. The
model demonstrates effective statistical power to distinguish categorized
samples of the firms. It shows that the current industrial practice of
asking a standard service rate of 1% tends to charge too little for
financially distressed firms and too much for normal ones.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 967-978
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Guarantees, contractor default probability, collateral, credit default swap, pricing, models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802290469
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802290469
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:967-978
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ivan Damnjanovic
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Damnjanovic
Author-Name: Jennifer Duthie
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Duthie
Author-Name: S. Travis Waller
Author-X-Name-First: S. Travis
Author-X-Name-Last: Waller
Title: Valuation of strategic network flexibility in development of toll road projects
Abstract:
A reliable, cost-effective and safe transportation system is essential to
economic growth. To keep pace with demands for network capacity,
revenue-generating projects are increasingly being used to complement the
current procurement practices and lessen the pressure on public finances.
In such transportation networks where there exists a mix of free access
links and links with user fees, network interconnectivity is an important
component of project valuation. A bilevel stochastic recourse model for
valuating network flexibility is formulated. A key component of the model
is consideration of network-based managerial flexibility in context of the
upper level project valuation objective and the lower level network user
equilibrium solution under demand uncertainty. The results from a test
network, for which a closed form solution is possible, indicate that the
value of network flexibility directly depends on initial network
conditions, variance in future travel demand and toll pricing decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 979-990
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Infrastructure planning, real options, network analysis, tolls,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802272707
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802272707
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:979-990
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Hongling Guo
Author-X-Name-First: Hongling
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Author-Name: Miroslaw Skibniewski
Author-X-Name-First: Miroslaw
Author-X-Name-Last: Skibniewski
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Using the IKEA model and virtual prototyping technology to improve construction process management
Abstract:
Learning from manufacturing industries is a useful approach to improving
the productivity of the construction industry and to solve problems
arising from construction processes. Through the use of virtual
prototyping (VP) technology, the lean production process engaged in the
IKEA business model (IKEA model) is studied and implemented in a real-life
construction project. Specifically, based on the analysis of the IKEA
model, the IKEA model can be applied to optimize construction processes
and simplify management activities. A case study is analysed to
demonstrate the improvement of construction process management through
using the VP-IKEA approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 991-1000
Issue: 9
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: IKEA model, site operations, virtual prototyping,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802290477
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802290477
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:9:p:991-1000
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiaoxing Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaoxing
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Simon Austin
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Author-Name: Jacqueline Glass
Author-X-Name-First: Jacqueline
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Author-Name: Grant Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Grant
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: Toward collective organizational values: a case study in UK construction
Abstract:
Values have held a prominent place in business ethics and organizational
theories in recent years. Some organizations now aim to integrate values
into their business practices, which requires a thorough understanding of
the organizational values. However, while many believe organizational
values should reflect the collective values of the staff, the majority of
values statements are generated by senior management with little
examination of employees' personal values. The difficulties surrounding
the development of an organization's values are exacerbated by the dearth
of literature offering practical guidance. The case study presented has
been conducted in a UK construction company using Schwartz's theoretical
framework of human values as a starting point and framing device.
Employees' values profiles were collected and analysed through an
organizational-wide values survey. Follow-up workshops and post-workshop
activities facilitated the sharing of common values and helped staff
representatives develop their own organizational values statements,
independent of the senior management, before a final stage of negotiation
with them. The findings support the argument that the shaping of
collective organizational values should be based on a clear understanding
and communication of employees' personal values, and Schwartz's circumplex
model of values and associated survey instrument are helpful framing
devices to initiate and structure such a debate. Compared to the usual
management-imposed approach, this bottom-up process could make
organizational values explicit in a more understandable and useful way,
and improve values congruence between individuals and host organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1009-1028
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Case study, management, organizational values, personal values, values statements,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802422146
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802422146
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1009-1028
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Implementing innovation in construction: contexts, relative boundedness and actor-network theory
Abstract:
Theoretical understanding of the implementation and use of innovations
within construction contexts is discussed and developed. It is argued that
both the rhetoric of the 'improvement agenda' within construction and
theories of innovation fail to account for the complex contexts and
disparate perspectives which characterize construction work. To address
this, the concept of relative boundedness is offered. Relatively unbounded
innovation is characterized by a lack of a coherent central driving force
or mediator with the ability to reconcile potential conflicts and overcome
resistance to implementation. This is a situation not exclusive to, but
certainly indicative of, much construction project work. Drawing on
empirical material from the implementation of new design and coordination
technologies on a large construction project, the concept is developed,
concentrating on the negotiations and translations implementation
mobilized. An actor-network theory (ANT) approach is adopted, which
emphasizes the roles that both human actors and non-human agents play in
the performance and outcomes of these interactions. Three aspects of how
relative boundedness is constituted and affected are described; through
the robustness of existing practices and expectations, through the
delegation of interests on to technological artefacts and through the
mobilization of actors and artefacts to constrain and limit the scope of
negotiations over new technology implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1029-1041
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Innovation, implementation, information technology, context, relative boundedness, actor-network theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802298413
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802298413
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1029-1041
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Maria Gribling
Author-X-Name-First: Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Gribling
Title: Obstacles to diversity in construction: the example of Heathrow Terminal 5
Abstract:
Why does the construction industry remain a predominantly white, male,
able-bodied enclave, despite all the efforts made to make it inclusive?
What are the real obstacles to women, those from ethnic minority groups,
in particular black and Asian, and those with disabilities entering and
remaining in different construction occupations? The recruitment,
employment and working conditions on a major and prestigious project in
London, Heathrow Terminal 5, where concerted attempts were made to include
the local diverse labour force and to improve representation of different
minority groups, are examined. Given the high level of building activity,
client encouragements and serious skill shortages, the fact that the
demand for construction labour was not met by the ready supply of local
labour and trainees suggests that the obstacles to inclusion are not
related to demand or evident supply factors. Inappropriate provision of
training, as well as employment and working conditions, shape the
exclusivity of the construction industry. The conclusion drawn is that
adherence to traditional practices—old-style apprenticeships,
craft-based skill structures, an itinerant workforce, and intensive
deployment of labour—are the real basis of the construction
industry's lack of diversity. The study is part of a project for the
Greater London Authority (GLA) on diversity performance in the London
construction industry, conducted jointly with the Working Lives Institute
of London Metropolitan University (GLA, 2007). It is based on
semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including
representatives of the client BAA, contractors, trainers from a Further
Education College, ConstructionSkills, union organizers, convenors and
officers, and workers. The aim is to provide an industry perspective of
the issues related to diversity in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1055-1065
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Construction sites, disability, discrimination, equal opportunities, employee relations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802326776
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802326776
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1055-1065
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei Pan
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Pan
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Author-Name: Andrew Sellars
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Sellars
Title: Maintenance cost implications of utilizing bathroom modules manufactured offsite
Abstract:
Though the benefits from using offsite technologies have been rehearsed,
their uptake within the UK construction industry is slow. A critical
barrier is the lack of cost data of using such technology. Another is the
unsubstantiated perception that maintenance of offsite solutions is
difficult and expensive. But, yet again, there appear to be no data
publicly available on this topic. This knowledge gap is addressed by
presenting the cost data of maintaining offsite and insitu bathrooms for
student accommodation. The records of 732 maintenance jobs were
investigated. These jobs span three years for 398 bathrooms, including
precast concrete modules, glass reinforced polyester (GRP) modules and
insitu bathrooms. The results suggest that GRP modules required the lowest
maintenance costs, while insitu bathrooms were significantly more
expensive to maintain. For offsite modules, drainage, toilets, vents and
sink were identified as the main problematic areas for maintenance. The
maintenance of insitu bathrooms was more complex and involved a wider
range of problematic areas. The design imposed significant effects on the
long-term cost of offsite bathrooms. Aspirations of clients need to be
fully understood and integrated into design. The findings should
facilitate the design decision making of using offsite bathrooms for
residential buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1067-1077
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Bathroom modules, maintenance costs, offsite, student accommodation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802422161
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802422161
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1067-1077
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carlos Caldas
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos
Author-X-Name-Last: Caldas
Author-Name: Chien-Cheng Chou
Author-X-Name-First: Chien-Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Chou
Author-Name: Jim O'connor
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: O'connor
Title: Negotiation-based decision support model for utility relocations in transportation infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Highway projects in metropolitan areas often require that adjacent
utilities be relocated to accommodate new or expanded highway facilities.
Traditionally, utility owners have been responsible for their own
relocations prior to highway construction. However, utility relocation
delay was reported as one of the root causes of overall project delays in
highway construction. In the USA, one strategic approach sporadically
taken over the past 15 years by some state departments of transportation
(DOTs) has been to combine utility relocation work with the highway
contractor's scope of work. While the combined strategy offers many
benefits, it does have its own set of challenges and disadvantages. Many
of these difficulties involve disagreements between DOTs and utility
owners over the appropriateness of the combined strategy for particular
types of relocations. Hence, a negotiation-based decision support model
(DSM) for determining whether to use the combined strategy was developed
to provide guidance to both DOTs and utility decision makers during the
planning and design phases of highways. A literature review and interviews
with experts from both DOTs and the utility industry were conducted to
identify significant factors as well as their impact levels on the
decision. A DSM aiming at synthesizing the factors and orchestrating the
negotiation process for the decision was proposed and verified. As
suggested by the model evaluators, the proposed DSM can improve the
quality of this complex decision-making process, especially for less
experienced project managers or designers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1079-1090
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Decision support systems, utilities, highway transportation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802331388
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802331388
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1079-1090
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matilda Hook
Author-X-Name-First: Matilda
Author-X-Name-Last: Hook
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Title: Applicability of lean principles and practices in industrialized housing production
Abstract:
The applicability of lean principles and practices to industrialized
housing in Sweden are examined, taking the production culture into
consideration. The factory production of industrialized housing shows
apparent similarities to manufacturing, but areas related to fully
integrated lean production practices, such as error proofing and
standardized work floor and equipment maintenance, are scarce. Hence,
applicability of lean principles and practices to industrialized housing
production is clearly influenced by a production culture that has
similarities to a traditional construction culture. Setting up
industrialized housing production thus requires careful implementation of
lean principles if workers from traditional building are moved into
factories, and managers still adhere to the prevailing site-based
production mentality. However, the influence of the traditional
construction project culture is not solely a constraint; flexible teams
that take their own responsibility are also important in a lean culture.
Hence, retaining parts of the existing construction mentality, context and
way of working is also central when discussing lean applicability in
industrialized housing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1091-1100
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Lean production, lean construction, industrialized housing, culture,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802422179
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802422179
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1091-1100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Keith Townsend
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Townsend
Author-Name: Lisa Bradley
Author-X-Name-First: Lisa
Author-X-Name-Last: Bradley
Author-Name: Kerry Brown
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: Brown
Title: Alternative work schedule interventions in the Australian construction industry: a comparative case study analysis
Abstract:
Project-based construction workers in the Australian construction
industry work long and irregular hours and experience higher levels of
work-to-family conflict and burnout than office-based workers, giving rise
to an interest in alternative work schedules as a means of supporting
work-life balance. Alternative work schedules were implemented in four
case study construction projects in Australia. Interventions differed
between projects, with two implementing a compressed work week, and the
others introducing reduced hours schedules (one of which was optional).
Data were collected from each case study project, using various
combinations of focus groups, surveys, interviews and daily diary
collection methods. The results were mixed. The compressed work week
appears to have been favourably received where it was introduced. However,
waged workers still expressed concerns about the impact on their weekly
'take-home' pay. Attempts to reduce work hours by changing from a six- to
a five-day schedule (without extending the length of the working day
between Monday and Friday) were less favourably received. Waged workers,
in particular, did not favour reduced hours schedules. The results confirm
the existence of two distinct labour markets operating in the Australian
construction industry and markedly different responses to alternative work
schedules, based upon whether workers are waged or salaried. The results
clearly show that attempts to improve work-life balance must take the
structural characteristics of the industry's labour markets into
consideration in the design of interventions. The impact of alternative
work schedules is likely to be moderated by institutional working time
regimes within the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1101-1112
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Work hours, alternative work schedules, work-life balance, labour market characteristics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802389402
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802389402
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1101-1112
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Paula Cardellino
Author-X-Name-First: Paula
Author-X-Name-Last: Cardellino
Title: Tales of the expected: investigating the rhetorical strategies of innovation champions
Abstract:
Innovation continues to be high on the agenda in construction. It is
widely considered to be an essential prerequisite of improved performance
both for the sector at large and for individual firms. Success stories
dominate the parts of the academic literature that rely heavily on the
recollections of key individuals. A complementary interpretation focuses
on the way innovation champions in hindsight interpret, justify and
legitimize the diffusion of innovations. Emphasis is put on the temporal
dimension of interpretation and how this links to rhetorical strategies
and impression management tactics. Rhetorical theories are drawn upon to
analyse the accounts given by innovation champions in seven facilities
management organizations. In particular, the three persuasive appeals in
classic rhetoric are used to highlight the rhetorical justifications
mobilized in the descriptions of what took place. The findings demonstrate
the usefulness of rhetorical theories in complementing studies of
innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1043-1054
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Innovation, innovation champion, rhetorical strategies, impression management, legitimacy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802389394
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802389394
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1043-1054
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Marzouk
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Marzouk
Author-Name: Magdy Madany
Author-X-Name-First: Magdy
Author-X-Name-Last: Madany
Author-Name: Azza Abou-Zied
Author-X-Name-First: Azza
Author-X-Name-Last: Abou-Zied
Author-Name: Moheeb El-said
Author-X-Name-First: Moheeb
Author-X-Name-Last: El-said
Title: Handling construction pollutions using multi-objective optimization
Abstract:
Quantitative assessment of emissions associated with construction
projects should be carried out during the planning phase of the projects.
This is important to detect and highlight any excesses of residuals during
the construction phase. A newly developed framework is proposed to handle
construction pollution using multi-objective optimization. The approach,
utilized by the proposed framework, is based on calculating the generated
pollution for each activity involved in the project, as a result of dust,
harmful gases and noise. The results of the quantitative assessment are
integrated in a utility function that expresses the amount of total
pollution. Then, evolutionary genetic algorithms (GAs) are used to carry
multi-objective optimization, considering three objective functions
(project duration, project cost and total pollution). The proposed
application considers the dynamic nature of construction activities
including different types of relationships and the change of activities'
criticality. An actual case study is worked out to demonstrate the
practical use of the proposed framework and to investigate the sensitivity
of its parameters.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1113-1125
Issue: 10
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Built environment, genetic algorithms, optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802400779
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802400779
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:10:p:1113-1125
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Birgit Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani Birgit
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Richard Neale
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Neale
Title: Understanding employee resourcing in construction organizations
Abstract:
In recent years the literature on employee resourcing has consistently
advocated the importance of adopting a holistic, strategic approach to
employee deployment decision making rather than adopting a reactive
needs-based approach. This is particularly problematic in construction
where the multi-project environment leads to constantly changing resource
requirements and to changing demands over a project's life cycle. This can
lead to inappropriate decisions, which fail to meet the longer-term needs
of both construction organizations and their employees. A structured and
comprehensive understanding of the current project team deployment
practices within large construction organizations was developed. Project
deployment practices were examined within seven case study contracting
firms. The emergent themes that shaped the decision-making processes were
grouped into five broad clusters comprising human resource planning,
performance/career management, team deployment, employee involvement and
training and development. The research confirms that a reactive and ad hoc
approach to the function prevails within the firms investigated. This
suggests a weak relationship between the deployment process and human
resource planning, team deployment, performance management, employee
involvement and training and development activities. It is suggested that
strategic HR-business partnering could engender more transparent and
productive relationships in this crucial area.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1133-1143
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Employee involvement, human resource management, recruitment, project team, strategic management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802422153
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802422153
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1133-1143
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Raisbeck
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Raisbeck
Title: Perceptions of architectural design and project risk: understanding the architects' role in a PPP project
Abstract:
Southern Cross Station is one of the largest public-private partnership
(PPP) projects undertaken in Australia. In this project the architects
played a significant role in developing an iconic design which has
received international professional design awards and much media
attention. In the media the architects' design was perceived as having
impacted negatively on capital costs. Given these contradictory
perceptions, the aim of this study was to better understand perceptions of
the architects' role in relation to project risks arising out of their
design. A survey of key project executives working in the PPP consortium
responsible for delivering the project was undertaken. The survey was
structured by a framework combining the PPP life cycle, project risks and
the idea that architectural design can be viewed as a research and
development activity rather than simply as a problem-solving activity. The
survey responses point to the fact that the architects mitigated technical
and operating risks and their activities had little bearing on the
project's substantial write-downs. This counters media perceptions of the
project that the design activities of the architects created more risks
than they mitigated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1145-1157
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Architecture, risk management, design, public-private partnerships,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802512342
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802512342
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1145-1157
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nongiba Kheni
Author-X-Name-First: Nongiba
Author-X-Name-Last: Kheni
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Health and safety management in developing countries: a study of construction SMEs in Ghana
Abstract:
The construction industry plays a significant role in the economy of
developing countries. The sector is, however, also one of the most
hazardous with frequent accidents and health-related problems. The health
and safety practices of construction small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs) in Ghana are examined with a view to improving the health and
safety performance of the sector. A survey questionnaire was administered
to owner/managers of SMEs, with a response rate of 32% of the sampling
frame. Few of the SMEs adopted proactive health and safety practices.
However, health and safety practices identified as being particularly
associated with firm characteristics were: accident investigation
procedures; accident reporting procedures; use of health and safety
posters; documentation of method statements; and health and safety
inductions. The diversity of health and safety practices associated with
different size categories of SMEs and constraints to improving health and
safety are highlighted. A positive change is needed in the attitudes of
owner/managers which takes into account size-related constraints in order
to improve the health and safety performance of Ghanaian SMEs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1159-1169
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Developing countries, health and safety, SMEs, survey,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802459916
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802459916
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1159-1169
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Luiz Eduardo Brandao
Author-X-Name-First: Luiz Eduardo
Author-X-Name-Last: Brandao
Author-Name: Eduardo Saraiva
Author-X-Name-First: Eduardo
Author-X-Name-Last: Saraiva
Title: The option value of government guarantees in infrastructure projects
Abstract:
The participation of private capital in public infrastructure investment
projects has been sought by many governments who perceive this as a way to
overcome budgetary constraints and foster economic growth. For some types
of projects, this investment may require government participation in the
form of project guarantees in order to reduce the risk to the private
investor, and as a consequence, the government assumes a contingent
liability which may have significant future budgetary impacts. We present
a minimum traffic guarantee (MTG) real options model that differs from
most of the literature in the field by using market data to determine
stochastic project parameters. This model can be used to assess the value
of these guarantees, allows the government to analyse the cost-benefit of
each level of support, and proposes an alternative to limit the exposure
of the government while still maintaining the benefits to the private
investor. We apply this model to the projected 1000 mile long BR-163 toll
road that will link the Brazilian Midwest to the Amazon River. We conclude
that the use of public-private partnerships (PPP) with guarantees and caps
on total government outlays can be modelled effectively using option
pricing methods and can be a solution to attract private investment to
high risk public infrastructure projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1171-1180
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Real options, infrastructure projects, toll roads, government guarantees, concessions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802428051
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802428051
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1171-1180
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Title: Analysing the novated design and construct contract from the client's, design team's and contractor's perspectives
Abstract:
The novated design and construct (ND&C) contract is one of the
increasingly preferred options among developers of large commercial and
residential projects across Australia. As a consequence of novation, the
design team's obligation to the client gets transferred to the contractor
who becomes responsible for carrying out the detailed design work at a
later stage of project life cycle. Subsequently, there are some inherent
factors that can depict the effectiveness of how all parties in the
process interact leading to a successful delivery of project through ND&C
contracts. A common set of 31 influencing attributes have been identified
through a systematic research approach and their relative significance and
impacts have been determined based on a structured questionnaire survey in
selected construction projects. By performing the factor analysis, a total
of eight factors significant to ND&C contracts were extracted, namely (1)
impact of initial design; (2) client's involvements in post novation
design; (3) selection of design team; (4) contractor's obligation; (5)
morale in post novation; (6) experience of design team; (7) relationship
between contractor and design team; and (8) expertise of DT in ND&C
projects. With a clear understanding of the roles of clients, design team
and the contractors, these findings could potentially contribute to
develop a company's procedures or enhance existing knowledge in relation
to the ND&C procurement approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1181-1196
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Design novation, procurement practice, factor analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802512359
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802512359
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1181-1196
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farnad Nasirzadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Farnad
Author-X-Name-Last: Nasirzadeh
Author-Name: Abbas Afshar
Author-X-Name-First: Abbas
Author-X-Name-Last: Afshar
Author-Name: Mostafa Khanzadi
Author-X-Name-First: Mostafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Khanzadi
Author-Name: Susan Howick
Author-X-Name-First: Susan
Author-X-Name-Last: Howick
Title: Integrating system dynamics and fuzzy logic modelling for construction risk management
Abstract:
The complex structure of construction project risks arises from their
internal and external interactions with their dynamic nature throughout
the life cycle of the project. A system dynamics (SD) approach to
construction project risk management is presented, including risk analysis
and response process. Owing to the imprecise and uncertain nature of
risks, fuzzy logic is integrated into system dynamics modelling structure.
Risk magnitudes are defined by a fuzzy logic based risk magnitude
prediction system. Zadeh's extension principle and interval arithmetic is
employed in the SD simulation model to present the system outcomes
considering uncertainties in the magnitude of risks resulting from the
risk magnitude prediction system. The performance of the proposed method
is assessed by employing the method in the risk management plan of a
sample project. The impact of a sample risk is quantified and efficiency
of different alternative response scenarios is assessed. The proposed
approach supports different stages of the risk management process
considering both the systemic and uncertain nature of risks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1197-1212
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Fuzzy logic, risk management, system dynamics,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802459924
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802459924
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1197-1212
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhikun Ding
Author-X-Name-First: Zhikun
Author-X-Name-Last: Ding
Author-Name: Fungfai Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Fungfai
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: A new way of developing semantic differential scales with personal construct theory
Abstract:
Measurement is a fundamental issue in management research. However,
traditional scale development methods have the drawback of mixing
researchers' bias with the scale design. Based on Ding et al.'s (2007)
exploratory work, a new way to develop semantic differential measurement
scales is proposed and tested with a survey in the context of the
construction industry. The purpose is to provide researchers and
practitioners with a new method to develop semantic differential scales
for measurement while the bias from their own perspective can be reduced.
The reliability and validity of semantic differential scales according to
the new method are tested with SPSS and Amos 6.0. The results show that
the generated semantic differential scales with this method have high
reliability and validity. The new way to develop semantic differential
scales offers researchers and practitioners one more choice of scale
development. The general application of this new method to other contexts
is yet to be tested.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1213-1226
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Personal construct theory, full grid technique, semantic differential scale, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802527522
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1213-1226
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Author-Name: Oyeshola Femi Kofoworola
Author-X-Name-First: Oyeshola Femi
Author-X-Name-Last: Kofoworola
Author-Name: Shabbir Gheewala
Author-X-Name-First: Shabbir
Author-X-Name-Last: Gheewala
Title: An input-output analysis of Thailand's construction sector
Abstract:
Three input-output (IO) tables compiled between 1995 and 2000 were used
to examine the significance of the construction sector and its
relationships with other sectors of the Thai economy. The pull and push
effect of the Thai construction sector to the national economy indicated
that the former is much larger than the latter. Additionally, the
relatively high output multipliers and backward linkage indicators showed
that the construction sector had the potential to trigger off production
in many economic sectors linked to it. An aggregated sectoral analysis
revealed the high dependence of construction on manufacturing followed by
services. The findings also suggest that the trends of the profile of
inputs and outputs are correlated to the economic conditions in Thailand
at the time the IO tables were compiled. Finally, the results of
employment analysis showed that although the share of construction sector
in direct employment generation may not be very large, its economic
importance lies in its direct and indirect contribution to employment
through strong backward linkage effects. Consequently, when its backward
linkages and output multiplier are considered together with the employment
opportunities latent within it, then the construction sector could be a
major contributor to the economic growth of Thailand.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1227-1240
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Input-output analysis, multipliers, linkages, construction sector, Thailand,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802425560
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802425560
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:11:p:1227-1240
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Doug Forbes
Author-X-Name-First: Doug
Author-X-Name-Last: Forbes
Author-Name: Simon Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Tools for selecting appropriate risk management techniques in the built environment
Abstract:
The built environment is full of uncertainty which leads to risk. The
literature shows that there is a wide range of techniques available to
deal with risk; however numerous studies have shown that only a relatively
small number are used in practice. One reason for this small number is a
lack of knowledge of the circumstances in which they can be used. With the
aim of overcoming this lack of knowledge two decision support tools are
developed, which assist in selecting appropriate cases. The first tool is
a two-dimensional matrix which provides a graphical output but has several
limitations; the second is a case-based reasoning (CBR) model. These tools
have been built from literature examples of the application of risk
techniques. A framework has been developed to assess the examples. It uses
a PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technical, Legal and Environmental)
analysis to assess the problem characteristics. The associated data used
in the problem were defined as fuzzy, incomplete or random. The results of
the CBR validation demonstrated a tool that predicts the correct technique
in excess of 80% of cases, and allows the matrix to be revised and
refined.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1241-1250
Issue: 11
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Risk management, risk techniques, decision support system, case-based reasoning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802468487
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Author-Name: Ajibade Ayodeji Aibinu
Author-X-Name-First: Ajibade Ayodeji
Author-X-Name-Last: Aibinu
Author-Name: Thomas Pasco
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasco
Title: The accuracy of pre-tender building cost estimates in Australia
Abstract:
A pre-tender building cost estimate is an important piece of information
when making decisions at the project planning and design stage. The
important project characteristics influencing the accuracy of pre-tender
building cost estimates are examined and practical improvement for
increasing the accuracy of estimates are considered. A quantitative
approach is used to address the research problem. Analysis of data from 56
projects and from a postal questionnaire survey of 102 quantity surveying
firms suggests that the accuracy of pre-tender building cost estimates
varies according to project size and principal structural material. When
eight identified project characteristics are controlled in a multiple
regression analysis, the accuracy of estimates is influenced by project
size. The estimates of smaller projects are more biased than the estimates
of larger projects. It was discovered that pre-tender building costs are
more often overestimated than are underestimated. Overestimated forecasts
are incorrect by a larger amount than underestimated forecasts. Data
analysis also revealed that the accuracy of pre-tender building cost
estimates has not improved over time. The majority of the respondents are
somewhat dissatisfied with the accuracy of estimates in the industry.
Probability estimation and simulation of past estimates, reducing quantity
surveying and cost engineering skill turnover, incorporating market
sentiments into estimates, early involvement of the quantity surveyor at
the brief stage, and proper documentation of experience gained in the
estimation of projects should help firms increase the accuracy of
estimates for new projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1257-1269
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Australia, estimating accuracy, pre-tender estimates, quantity surveying, tendering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802527514
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:12:p:1257-1269
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Behaviour of quantity surveyors as organizational citizens
Abstract:
Understanding the individual's collectivistic orientations toward group
goals and task activities is critical for developing cooperative and
productive teams. The complex environment of modern construction, where
the emphasis shifts from individually oriented to team-based work, has led
to many challenges. There are important issues of cooperative behaviours
in a world of cultural pluralism in which interpersonal cooperation is
juxtaposed with organizational citizenship behaviour. Behaviours of
construction project participants are important manifestations of culture
that are dependent upon norms, values and beliefs. Certain organizational
cultures support individualistic behaviours while others emphasize the
benefits to the collective whole. Collectivistic orientation is examined
as the cultural dimension of individualism-collectivism (IC) and found to
be related to organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) where the
correlations of IC and most OCB variables are significant for quantity
surveyors in Hong Kong. Generally, the (more) individualistic persons are
less likely to exhibit organizational citizenship behaviours.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1271-1282
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Culture, individualism-collectivism, organizational citizenship behaviour,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802527530
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:12:p:1271-1282
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Author-Name: David William Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: David William
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Ammar Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: Ammar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Title: A simplified unbalanced bidding model
Abstract:
Much research effort to date has focused on the development and use of
bidding models in optimizing contractors' bid prices in competitive
tendering environments. Unbalanced bidding models, in particular, have the
objective of maximizing a project's prospective profits by using
techniques of applying differentiated mark-ups to all of a project's items
of work. It is shown here that these unbalanced bidding models have been
unnecessarily complicated by incorporating consideration of a project's
item costs. Bidding models can be significantly simplified by having the
objective of maximizing a project's top-line revenue rather than
maximizing bottom-line profit. A new model, incorporating all three
standard effects of item price loading: namely, front-end loading,
individual-rate loading, and back-end loading, is proposed that gives
effect to determining the optimum pricing for a project's component items.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1283-1290
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Bidding, competitive advantage, cost modelling, revenue, mark-up,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802570506
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:12:p:1283-1290
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Symeon Christodoulou
Author-X-Name-First: Symeon
Author-X-Name-Last: Christodoulou
Title: A bid-unbalancing method for lowering a contractor's financial risk
Abstract:
A method is presented for unbalancing bids and optimizing the allocation
of overall project profits to individual activities by considering the
financial parameters of a project (bid mark-up and projected cash flow),
in conjunction with lowering the exposure to possible financial disorder
in the project. The method utilizes the general concept of entropy and a
variant of it (hereby termed 'monetary entropy', H M) as measures of a
project's perceived level of disorder, in order to distribute the total
bid mark-up to the project activities. The entropy-based bid-unbalancing
method seeks to minimize a possible financial disorder (the monetary
entropy) resulting from limited monetary resources available to the
project and from badly developed project cash flows. The intended primary
users of the method are contractors during the initial bidding stage of a
project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1291-1302
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Bid-unbalancing, project profitability, cash flow optimization, entropy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802596238
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:26:y:2008:i:12:p:1291-1302
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sepani Senaratne
Author-X-Name-First: Sepani
Author-X-Name-Last: Senaratne
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: Managing construction project change: a knowledge management perspective
Abstract:
In the information age, organization theories have addressed
problem-solving as an information-processing activity. However, in this
era, with the realization of knowledge-based views of the organization,
shared problem-solving is increasingly recognized as a knowledge creation
trigger. During shared problem-solving, stakeholders bring different types
of knowledge into the problem situation and it is captured, created and
shared by the team members. In construction projects, shared
problem-solving often takes place through pragmatic problem-solving on
site, in particular, through managing project changes. However, this
significant role of knowledge in managing project change is not well
appreciated in the extant literature. Accordingly, to explore how
knowledge is created during project changes in construction a case study
approach was adopted using two change events in two collaborative settings
within the UK construction industry. The case study findings revealed that
different forms of knowledge are created during the project change process
within construction projects. However, this knowledge remains largely
tacit and does not disseminate to the wider organization due to imbalanced
codification and personalization strategies existing in such settings. A
knowledge management perspective is introduced to manage project change so
that construction project teams can successfully resolve and learn from
change events.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1303-1311
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Shared problem-solving, managing project change, construction projects, knowledge management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802621044
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. Edward Minchin
Author-X-Name-First: R. Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Minchin
Author-Name: Michael Hammons
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Hammons
Author-Name: Junyong Ahn
Author-X-Name-First: Junyong
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahn
Title: A construction quality index for highway construction
Abstract:
Changes in policy regarding the use of contractor-conducted testing in
quality assurance decisions have hit state highway agencies (SHAs) during
a time of continuing reduction in agency personnel. These changes have
increased the need for quality-driven contractors. This, coupled with more
agencies adopting specifications tied to performance, places more
requirements on contractors to emphasize quality management in their
operations. There is a need for rational, comprehensive methods to
evaluate a contractor's end product from a quality perspective; thus,
there is a need for new techniques and approaches for examining and rating
the quality of performance. Researchers and practitioners alike should
benefit from this description of the construction quality index (CQI)
developed through a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation.
The CQI is a rating of the quality of materials and workmanship on highway
projects that, unlike current quality rating models used by SHAs, is
completely objective. Under limited validation testing, the model proved
able to assign quality index values consistent with the owner's level of
satisfaction with the overall project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1313-1324
Issue: 12
Volume: 26
Year: 2008
Keywords: Highways, pavement, analytical hierarchy process, quality,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802621036
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Adel Al-Kharashi
Author-X-Name-First: Adel
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Kharashi
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Causes of delays in Saudi Arabian public sector construction projects
Abstract:
Many public construction projects have been undertaken throughout the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of the government's national development
plans in the past three decades, with significant public expenditure
involved. One of the critical problems concerning these projects is the
frequent and lengthy delays that occur. In order to improve the situation,
it is first necessary to identify the major causes involved. Several
studies have already been reported which do this but all use different
sets of variables. Also, none has attempted to identify the extent to
which improvements are possible in practice. A new survey is reported that
uses all the variables from the previous work and measures for both
current degree of effect on delays and the extent to which each can be
practically improved. These are contained in seven groupings: client,
contractor, consultant, materials, labour, contract and
relationship-related causes. The survey covers a sample of 86 clients,
contractors and consultants working in the Saudi construction industry.
The analysis reveals some considerable heterogeneity between the cause
groupings and respondent groupings in terms of means and correlations,
apparently partly due to lack of knowledge of respondents and a tendency
for the consultants to blame the contractors for the delays and vice
versa. The main results, therefore, are disaggregated to reflect the views
of each respondent group concerning each group of causes. In general
however, it is found that the most influencing current cause of delay is
the lack of qualified and experienced personnel—attributed to the
considerable amount of large, innovative, construction projects and
associated current undersupply of manpower in the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Delays, public sector, Saudi Arabia, survey,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802541457
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Liaquat Hossain
Author-X-Name-First: Liaquat
Author-X-Name-Last: Hossain
Title: Communications and coordination in construction projects
Abstract:
Coordination can be seen as a process of managing resources in an
organized manner so that a higher degree of operational efficiency can be
achieved for a given project. Social network matrices are constructed
using different centrality measures. These measurements are used to
explore the association between network centrality and coordination for a
construction project. Network centrality affects the ability of an
individual to coordinate the actions of others. The following questions
guide this study: What is the effect of network centrality on
coordination? How is the actor's ability to coordinate projects related to
his or her structural position in the communications network?
Multi-layered test designs were developed to explore this relationship in
a project-based coordination of Dabhol Power Company Construction company
and Azurix Corporation. There are three major findings from this analysis.
First, centrally positioned actors show more coordinative activity.
Second, the betweenness index of centrality is the most potent predicate
for coordination. Last, the influence of an actor is associated with
coordination more than the actor's prominence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-39
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Communications, coordination, network centrality, social network analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802558923
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:1:p:25-39
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Franky Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Franky
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Improving building project performance: how buildability benchmarking can help
Abstract:
Although the buildability of building designs has not been commonly taken
as an important parameter in design quality assessment, previous studies
have linked buildability to time, cost, quality and safety performance in
many ways. Based on this observation, the question arises of how
buildability can be benchmarked and which aspects of project performance
can be improved. After identifying available benchmarking tools, the
relative correlations are investigated between different buildability
attributes and construction performance in terms of time, cost, quality
and safety. Based on a questionnaire survey, it was found that
construction time performance has strong positive correlations with
buildability in the design of external wall elements, simplicity of
assembly and installation considerations, while other design attributes
affect cost, quality and safety performance to varying degrees. With this
understanding, it is postulated that best practice can be promoted among
design teams for enhancing buildability, which would in turn raise project
performance. Three experienced practitioners have been interviewed for
verifying the practicality of buildability benchmarking. As an incentive
to improve buildability, benchmarking would help construction stakeholders
reap their desired benefits by focusing on the related design attributes
in the pre-construction stage, particularly for functionally oriented
buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 41-52
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Buildability, project performance, benchmarking, best practice,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802570498
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulrahman Salem Bageis
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulrahman Salem
Author-X-Name-Last: Bageis
Author-Name: Chris Fortune
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Fortune
Title: Factors affecting the bid/no bid decision in the Saudi Arabian construction contractors
Abstract:
The bid/no bid decision requires an understanding of a company's
assessment in relation to factors affecting the decision. Different
companies might have different assessment values. The aim is to
investigate how bid/no bid decisions are influenced by different
characteristics of contractors. Various factors are identified and then
analysed in order to investigate their influence and relative
significance. A questionnaire survey was used to identify and rank the
factors affecting the bidding decision and then analyse them in terms of
differences between the returned responses with respect to the differing
respondent characteristics. The findings have established the ranking
order of the factors affecting the bid/no bid decision and identified
their weights of importance. In addition, the influence of these
characteristics upon the different weights of importance given by the
survey respondents is found to be statistically significant. The most
influential characteristics that affected their assessment of the weight
of importance are contractor size, classification status of the contractor
and the main client type. Different contractors' characteristics should be
reflected in the way that the bid/no bid decisions are modelled. Also, the
data collected should be categorized with regards to contractors'
characteristics before starting the data analysis and modelling processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 53-71
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Bid/no bid decision, decision making, project selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802596220
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:1:p:53-71
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sungmin Yun
Author-X-Name-First: Sungmin
Author-X-Name-Last: Yun
Author-Name: Carlos Caldas
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos
Author-X-Name-Last: Caldas
Title: Analysing decision variables that influence preliminary feasibility studies using data mining techniques
Abstract:
The development of infrastructure contributes to the social and economic
improvement of a country, and generally requires huge and immediate
investments. To decide on appropriate infrastructure projects, many
countries use preliminary feasibility studies (PFS). However, a
preliminary feasibility study takes a relatively long time to complete.
During this time, decision-making parameters such as the estimated project
cost as well as the project environment may change. To identify the
decision parameters that affect the feasibility analysis, data mining
techniques are applied to analyse the Go/No Go decision-making process in
infrastructure projects. The data mining analysis uses PFS data obtained
from large-scale infrastructure projects in Korea. Classification models
found 57 hidden rules in the PFS. Prediction models were also developed
for Go/No Go decision making using an artificial neural network (ANN) and
logistic regression analysis. In order to validate the results, the study
evaluated the accuracies and errors of both the classification and the
prediction model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 73-87
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Data mining, feasibility, infrastructure, forecasting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802596246
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802596246
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:1:p:73-87
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Divine Kwaku Ahadzie
Author-X-Name-First: Divine Kwaku
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahadzie
Author-Name: David Proverbs
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Proverbs
Author-Name: Paul Olomolaiye
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Olomolaiye
Author-Name: N. Ankrah
Author-X-Name-First: N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ankrah
Title: Towards developing competency-based measures for project managers in mass house building projects in developing countries
Abstract:
Within the human resource management (HRM) genre, the identification and
development of appropriate competency-based measures is widely seen as the
only viable means for validating and engendering managerial best
practices. A competency-based conceptual model is proposed towards the
development of a taxonomy of project managers' (PMs') performance measures
in mass house building projects (MHBPs). The model reflects elements of
both performance behaviours and outcomes in predicting the performance of
PMs at the construction phase of the project life cycle. Data were
elicited from members of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association
(GREDA), whose speciality is the construction of residential buildings, to
test the validity of this conceptual model. The findings, which confirm
the validity of the model, demonstrate the suitability and potential
usefulness of this model for developing a competency-based agenda towards
the professional development of PMs involved in the implementation of
MHBPs in developing countries, like Ghana. The model could, therefore,
form the basis for curriculum development, recruitment and selection, team
deployment and job matching, career development and succession planning to
facilitate the achievement of managerial best practices in MHBPs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 89-102
Issue: 1
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Competency-based measures, developing countries, Ghana, project managers, mass house building projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802621028
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:1:p:89-102
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yehiel Rosenfeld
Author-X-Name-First: Yehiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosenfeld
Title: Cost of quality versus cost of non-quality in construction: the crucial balance
Abstract:
The research is a pioneering attempt to determine the optimal level of
investment in quality by construction companies. The methodology is based
on quantifying the four types of quality-related costs in residential
construction, and relates them to each other by expressing them all as
percentages of the relevant total construction revenues (revenues to the
company due to construction, excluding land, etc.). The findings reaffirm,
on the one hand, that investing in quality is a worthy strategy and that,
in the situations examined, the ratio of the direct benefits to the
investment (in terms of savings on internal and external failures) is at
least 2:1. On the other hand, the findings also show that an excess of
quality costs (prevention and appraisal) is wasteful. Above a certain
level of investment, the extra benefits are marginal, and thus do not
offset the extra costs. Statistically fitted graphs, based on actual
quantitative data, support this hypothesis, and provide approximate
boundaries of effective versus ineffective investments in quality. In this
study, the optimal range lies between 2% and 4% of the company's revenue.
Investing less than 2% in prevention and appraisal will definitely entail
higher failure costs, whereas an investment of over 4% most probably will
not pay itself back.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 107-117
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Quality, cost of quality, quality assurance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802651744
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802651744
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:107-117
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Author-Name: Shamas-Ur-Rehman Toor
Author-X-Name-First: Shamas-Ur-Rehman
Author-X-Name-Last: Toor
Title: Research on cross-cultural leadership and management in construction: a review and directions for future research
Abstract:
A great volume of cross-cultural research has been undertaken during the
past two decades. Although the interaction among participants and
organizations from different cultures is one of the most complex issues
evident on large construction projects, there is not much cross-cultural
research in the context of the construction industry. An overview of
cross-cultural research in the social sciences and management studies is
presented and some of the recent conceptual and methodological advances
are highlighted. Studies on cross-cultural research in construction are
then summarized. A number of conceptual and methodological issues are
highlighted that deserve more attention in future research in
construction. Among these is the need for a more interdisciplinary and
interactionist perspective to unearth the complexity of cross-cultural
issues. Research in construction should move beyond the conventional
models to try more challenging approaches. This calls for the development
of comprehensive research frameworks which can derive benefits from the
methodologies being applied, and advances being made in cross-cultural
research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 119-133
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Cross-cultural research, construction industry, leadership, management, future research,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802616937
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:119-133
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henk-Jan van Mossel
Author-X-Name-First: Henk-Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: van Mossel
Author-Name: Ad Straub
Author-X-Name-First: Ad
Author-X-Name-Last: Straub
Title: The need for customizing maintenance services in social housing
Abstract:
Market segmentation theory is based on the notion that although customers
are unique they may be grouped into relatively homogeneous categories
which respond in a certain manner to the supplier's marketing efforts.
Despite the lack of commercial necessity for the Dutch social rented
sector in meeting the demands of tenants, public objectives do compel
housing associations to be efficient and effective in maintenance
spending. Through customization of maintenance service delivery, the match
between users' expectations and the results of maintenance may be
improved. Given the limited body of knowledge with respect to preferences
of target groups in maintenance of dwellings a post hoc approach is used
for this purpose. A large-scale survey was conducted among tenants of
large housing associations in the Netherlands. By means of respectively
principal component and cluster analyses, customer segments were given
shape. Profiling of these segments was achieved through ANOVA and
chi-square analyses. There seem to be grounds for housing associations to
differentiate, to a limited degree, in their maintenance (purchasing)
policy. This, however, always depends on the applicable strategic
objectives of the housing association in question.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 135-151
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Maintenance, service quality, cluster analysis, housing associations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802695766
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:135-151
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abukar Warsame
Author-X-Name-First: Abukar
Author-X-Name-Last: Warsame
Title: Organizational modes in the residential building sector in Sweden
Abstract:
Traditional organizational studies emphasize department groupings and the
management style of different organizations that are often based on common
tasks, products, geography and processes. They also mainly emphasize the
connection between construction supply chain and procurement methods but
have not analysed of how external factors shape the organization structure
and consequently the supply chain. Three things are analysed: the impact
of competitive pressure, required competence and degree of flexibility on
various modes of construction organization used for producing multi-family
residential housing in Sweden from a transaction cost theory perspective.
Organization structures depend on the level of project engagement,
competence demanded by the preferred organization mode as well as the
economic environment, and the level of construction activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 153-163
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Organization structure, flexibility, risk allocation, competition, competence,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802699503
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802699503
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:153-163
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Ryan Fan
Author-X-Name-First: Ryan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fan
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Y. H. Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Y. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Patrick Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: Coping with structural change in construction: experiences gained from advanced economies
Abstract:
As an economy approaches maturity, the relative importance of the
construction sector would gradually decline. Without effective policies
and strategies, the construction industry will suffer irreversably and
this may trigger a knock-on effect to the overall economy. The experiences
of selected advanced economies are examined, including Australia, Japan,
Singapore, South Korea and the UK in coping with structural changes in
construction. Strategies employed by the government and the construction
industry of these advanced economies to reinvent the construction industry
were captured through an extensive literature review and a series of
interviews with indigenous industry practitioners. In order to revitalize
the construction industry, governments would accelerate publicly funded
projects; provide financial support to ease the burden of industry
stakeholders; and stimulate the market demand. In contrast, the industry
would explore various market alternatives while companies would sharpen
their competitive advantage locally and internationally through merger and
acquisition. The identified strategies are corresponded to a construction
industry development framework, which could therefore serve as a valuable
reference for policy makers and practitioners to rejuvenate construction
demand when a country approaches an urban service economy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 165-180
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Construction industry, advanced economies, recession, recovery, strategy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802699040
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:165-180
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Herbert Robinson
Author-X-Name-First: Herbert
Author-X-Name-Last: Robinson
Author-Name: Jon Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Jon
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Title: Service delivery and performance monitoring in PFI/PPP projects
Abstract:
Value for money in a PFI project depends crucially on performance
monitoring to provide incentives for improvement and to ensure that
service delivery is in accordance with the output specification. However,
the effectiveness of performance monitoring and output specification
cannot be fully assessed until PFI projects become operational. There is a
need to examine the role of the performance monitoring mechanism in
ensuring that 'value for money' is achieved throughout the delivery of
services. Based on semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders from
the public and private sectors, the case studies suggest that there are
low levels of performance deductions in PFI projects during the
operational phase. However, the complexity of performance measurement,
inadequate resources for performance monitoring and the difficulties in
the interpretation of the output specification raise questions as to
whether the low level of deductions truly reflect the actual level of
services delivered. There is also evidence of the public sector forgoing
entitled deductions in the 'spirit of partnership' and in exchange for
minor contract variations in the output specification. Both the public and
private sectors are undergoing a learning process which should lead to
improvements in future PFI contracts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 181-197
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Service delivery, performance monitoring, output specification, PFI/PPP projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802614163
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802614163
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:181-197
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ashraf Elazouni
Author-X-Name-First: Ashraf
Author-X-Name-Last: Elazouni
Title: Heuristic method for multi-project finance-based scheduling
Abstract:
A heuristic method is proposed for scheduling multiple projects subject
to cash constraints. The heuristic determines cash availability during a
given period, identifies all possible activities' schedules, determines
the cash requirements for each schedule, ranks schedules based on the
contribution to minimizing the increase in the project duration, schedules
all activities of the selected schedule and determines the impact of the
scheduled activities on the project cash flow. The effectiveness of the
heuristic method was validated by comparing the results with the optimum
results obtained by using the integer programming (IP) technique for 15
networks comprising up to 60 activities. The comparison indicated that the
solutions obtained using the proposed heuristic are very comparable to the
optimum solutions. An example of two concurrent projects was presented to
demonstrate the proposed heuristic method. The proposed heuristic offers
the ultimate flexibility to enter cash outflows and inflows at the actual
occurrence time, the ability to rationalize the scheduling process, the
flexibility to either devise or update schedules, and the ability to
schedule practical-size multiple projects. Finally, this heuristic can be
easily coded in software to help managers schedule projects under
finance-constrained conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 199-211
Issue: 2
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Cash flow management, construction finance, financial management, heuristic, scheduling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802673110
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190802673110
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:2:p:199-211
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-Man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-Man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Hankel Hon-Kwok Fung
Author-X-Name-First: Hankel Hon-Kwok
Author-X-Name-Last: Fung
Title: Real estate development as real options
Abstract:
One of the recent advances in property valuation is to view a property or
the right to develop it as a call option. Shilling et al. (1985) were
among the first to apply option pricing theory in this way. For real
estate development, although not explicitly said so in his paper, Titman
(1985) was the first to treat vacant lots of land as options to wait to
develop. A frequently cited paper by Quigg (1993) presents the first
empirical effort to support the real option pricing point of view. The
valuation framework of Quigg (1993) is in one sense a specialization and
in another sense a generalization of the framework of Williams (1991).
Unfortunately, the works of both Williams and Quigg are technically
flawed, but surprisingly their errors have gone unnoticed for over 15
years and are still propagating in the literature (e.g. in Yamaguchi et
al., 2000 and Patel and Paxson, 2001). In the following, we will first
address the flaws of Quigg (1993). Then we will examine the problems in
Williams' (1991) work. Finally, we will discuss some implications of the
Williams-Quigg valuation framework.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 221-227
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Real estate, real options,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902759017
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:221-227
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Symeon Christodoulou
Author-X-Name-First: Symeon
Author-X-Name-Last: Christodoulou
Author-Name: Georgios Ellinas
Author-X-Name-First: Georgios
Author-X-Name-Last: Ellinas
Author-Name: Pooyan Aslani
Author-X-Name-First: Pooyan
Author-X-Name-Last: Aslani
Title: Disorder considerations in resource-constrained scheduling
Abstract:
A method is presented for allocating resources to construction activities
and for scheduling construction projects under resource constraints by
considering the effects that such resource limitations may have on the
tendency of the activities (and the project in general) to fall into
disarray and behind schedule. Resource-constrained scheduling problems
(RCSP) are very common in real-life construction projects and because of
their nature their numerical solution is computationally intensive. The
method utilizes a measure of each activity's perceived level of disorder
stemming from resource limitations. The proposed technique aims to
optimize the number of resources assigned to the activities and to
schedule the project so as to minimize the overall project's tendency to
fall into disorder. The entropy-like metric used in the scheduling
optimization is related to the ratio of required over-assigned resource
units per activity, and its utilization allows a planner to take into
consideration project disorder when planning a project. A case study and
its mathematical framework help demonstrate the 'duration vs. disorder'
trade-off analysis that planners should perform when considering possible
activity resource assignments and the feasibility of these assignments in
terms of induced disorder. The entropy optimization method proves to be a
powerful project-planning metric.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-240
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Resource allocation, resource-constrained scheduling, project planning, entropy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802635416
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:229-240
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thaveeporn Pulket
Author-X-Name-First: Thaveeporn
Author-X-Name-Last: Pulket
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Construction litigation prediction system using ant colony optimization
Abstract:
The frequency of construction litigation has increased over the years,
making litigation a costly and time-consuming activity. It is in the
interests of all parties to a construction contract to avoid litigation. A
tool (Ant Miner) is proposed to predict the outcome of construction
litigation, hence encouraging the parties to settle out of court. Ant
Miner, a rule-based classification system extracts classification rules by
using ant colony optimization. It is used on 151 Illinois circuit court
cases filed in the period 1987-2005. The prediction model is composed of
data consolidation, attribute selection, classification and assessment.
The results provide evidence that Ant Miner performs better than models
used in earlier studies and that the rule sets discovered by this tool are
highly interpretable, but that this tool suffers a great deal from noisy
data. If the parties involved in a dispute have access to the proposed
system that predicts the decision of the courts with higher accuracy and
reliability than before, then they are expected to avoid litigation and
settle out of court in order to save considerable time, money and
aggravation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 241-251
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Ant colony algorithm, artificial intelligence, case-based reasoning, decision trees, litigation, neural networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802714781
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:241-251
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jingfeng Yuan
Author-X-Name-First: Jingfeng
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuan
Author-Name: Alex Yajun Zeng
Author-X-Name-First: Alex Yajun
Author-X-Name-Last: Zeng
Author-Name: Miroslaw Skibniewski
Author-X-Name-First: Miroslaw
Author-X-Name-Last: Skibniewski
Author-Name: Qiming Li
Author-X-Name-First: Qiming
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Selection of performance objectives and key performance indicators in public-private partnership projects to achieve value for money
Abstract:
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have been applied widely in the global
construction market. During the life cycle of PPP projects, their
performance could be affected by a number of factors and their
interactions, which might cause the inefficiency and ineffectiveness of
the projects. Previous researches on PPPs mainly concentrated on the
procurement, success measurement and risk management of PPPs, but paid
little attention to the process factors that can strongly influence the
performance of PPPs. In order to improve process and performance
management in PPPs, the performance objectives and key performance
indicators (KPIs) are identified to improve the partnership outcomes.
Based on the goal-setting theory, 15 performance objectives are selected.
The relative significance and difference of performance objectives for
different stakeholders are presented based on a structured questionnaire
survey. The survey results show that all identified objectives are
important. In spite of stakeholders' common opinions on the objectives of
quality, costs, time and the services provided by PPPs, there are evident
differences in the objectives of budget constraints of the public sector,
risks, revenue and guarantees. According to the survey results, a
conceptual KPIs framework is established. Furthermore, the KPIs are
identified to assess PPP projects' performance. The performance objectives
and the KPIs, which can be used to identify the strengths and weaknesses
of PPP projects, are useful tools for effective project performance
management in PPPs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 253-270
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Public-private partnership (PPP), key performance indicators (KPIs), performance management, value for money,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902748705
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:253-270
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Stuart Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Jawwad Raja
Author-X-Name-First: Jawwad
Author-X-Name-Last: Raja
Title: Living up to the value agenda: the empirical realities of through-life value creation in construction
Abstract:
Current research agendas are increasingly encouraging the construction
industry to operate on the basis of 'added value'. Such debates echo the
established concept of 'high value manufacturing' and associated trends
towards servitization. Within construction, the so-called 'value agenda'
draws heavily from the notion of integrated solutions. This is held to be
especially appropriate in the context of PFI projects. Also relevant is
the concept of service-led projects whereby the project rationale is
driven by the client's objectives for delivering an enhanced service to
its own customers. Such ideas are contextualized by a consideration of
broader trends of privatization and outsourcing within and across the
construction industry's client base. The current emphasis on integrated
solutions reflects long-term trends within privatized client organizations
towards the outsourcing of asset management capabilities. However, such
trends are by no means uniform or consistent. An in-depth case study of
three operating divisions within a major construction company illustrates
that firms are unlikely to reorientate their business in response to the
'value agenda'. In the case of PFI, the tendency has been to establish
specialist units for the purposes of winning work. Meanwhile,
institutionally embedded operating routines within the rest of the
business remain broadly unaffected.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 271-285
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Servitization, integrated solutions, PFI, value, outsourcing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190802699032
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:271-285
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yunyan Andrea Jia
Author-X-Name-First: Yunyan Andrea
Author-X-Name-Last: Jia
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Thomas Kvan
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Kvan
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Brenda Yip
Author-X-Name-First: Brenda
Author-X-Name-Last: Yip
Title: Burnout among Hong Kong Chinese architecture students: the paradoxical effect of Confucian conformity values
Abstract:
Burnout is a multidimensional indicator of people's psychological
relationship with their job, the opposite end of which is engagement.
Culture's impact on students' burnout is investigated by examining the
burnout level of Hong Kong Chinese architecture students and its
correlation with Confucian conformity values, the dominant societal
cultural values in Confucian-Heritage-Cultures (CHC)1 society. Two hundred
and ninety-four students enrolled in Bachelor and Master programmes in
architecture from two Hong Kong universities participated in the study.
The Chinese version of Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey and a
seven-item conformity scale taken from the Schwartz Value Survey were
employed to measure burnout and conformity values. Conformity values were
found to be positively correlated with the EX dimension of burnout,
negatively correlated with the CY (doubt significance) and the IE
dimension of burnout, and not correlated with the CY (lose interest)
dimension of burnout. The paradoxical effect of conformity values suggests
that burnout is more than an individual phenomenon. Rather, it is a
systematic problem rooted in the inconsistencies between the social
culture in which the individual students are immersed and the learning
culture of the architectural schools to which students are trying to
adapt. Without an understanding of the contextual inconsistency, the
burnout dilemma seems to be certain. The organizers of the architecture
curriculum are urged to take students' social cultural context into
account and address cultural diversity in their programmes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 287-298
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Architecture student, burnout, conformity values, Confucian-Heritage-Cultures,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902736296
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:287-298
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shamas-Ur-Rehman Toor
Author-X-Name-First: Shamas-Ur-Rehman
Author-X-Name-Last: Toor
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Authenticity and its influence on psychological well-being and contingent self-esteem of leaders in Singapore construction sector
Abstract:
'Authentic leadership' has emerged as an important subject in the
management science literature. Although several scholars have presented
their viewpoints about authenticity and authentic leadership, there is
scarcity of empirical evidence on what leaders can really gain from being
authentic. The results of the questionnaire-based survey with 32 leaders
suggest that authenticity is significantly correlated with psychological
well-being and negatively correlated with contingent self-esteem.
Regression analysis also shows that authenticity successfully predicts
psychological well-being. These findings indicate that authenticity
results in healthy psychological functioning of leaders and hence several
positive work-related outcomes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 299-313
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Authenticity, authentic leadership, psychological well-being, contingent self-esteem, Singapore,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902729721
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902729721
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:299-313
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Ping Ho
Author-X-Name-First: S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ping Ho
Author-Name: Yi-Hsin Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Yi-Hsin
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: Hsueh-Liang Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Hsueh-Liang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Wenyi Chu
Author-X-Name-First: Wenyi
Author-X-Name-Last: Chu
Title: Empirical test of a model for organizational governance structure choices in construction joint ventures
Abstract:
In the construction industry, joint ventures (JVs) have become one of the
major organizational forms utilized in large-scale and international
projects. Because of the complexity of JVs, the management of JVs is much
more difficult than that of usual projects. Among various management
challenges, the choice of organizational governance structure has a
profound impact on JV success. A model for governance structure choices in
construction JVs (CJVs) is tested. The governance structure model focuses
on four major factors, namely, corporate cultural difference, trust, needs
for procurement autonomy and motivation for learning, and is expressed in
terms of four propositions, which are tested. We conclude from the
econometric analysis results that the four model variables together
explain about 53% of the variation of governance structure choices. Most
important, all the four model propositions are strongly supported by the
econometric analysis results and the sign of each coefficient is
consistent with that in each proposition. Overall, the governance
structure model is well supported by statistical testing, which
complements previous case-study-based evidence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 315-324
Issue: 3
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Joint venture, organizational design, strategic management, governance structure, econometric analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902725588
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902725588
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:3:p:315-324
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jicai Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jicai
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Charles Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Title: Real option application in PPP/PFI project negotiation
Abstract:
Over the past two decades, many developing countries have grown to become
more familiar with the notions and the use of public-private
partnership/private financing initiative (PPP/PFI) schemes in building
large-scale infrastructure assets. However, owing to higher levels of
complexity and longer contractual durations, PPP/PFI projects are often
embedded with higher risks. On the one hand, any private sector
concessionaire would strive to secure some forms of subsidies or
guarantees from the host government to alleviate its risk concerns. On the
other hand, the host government would also attempt to counterbalance the
grant of these incentives by introducing additional 'repayment'
obligations, such as placement of a cap on the tariff or toll rates.
Modelled as real options, support and repayment features found in the case
of a wastewater treatment plant in Southern China are evaluated using a
combination of Monte Carlo simulation and spreadsheet-based cash flow
models. The objective is to illustrate how a negotiation band
incorporating these option values can be constructed, which would enlarge
the feasible bargaining range for both parties. The risk implications of
two disparate bidding scenarios found in the case will also be discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 331-342
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Concession, negotiation, real option, public-private partnerships, private finance initiative,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902807071
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902807071
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:331-342
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Konelio Tone
Author-X-Name-First: Konelio
Author-X-Name-Last: Tone
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Johnny Kwok Wai Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny Kwok Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: An investigation of the impact of cross-cultural communication on the management of construction projects in Samoa
Abstract:
Communication problems have emerged as one of the most significant
contemporary challenges facing construction project managers in an
increasingly international construction market. However, little research
has investigated the impact of cross-cultural communication (CCC) on
management systems in this context. The key problems of CCC and their
impact for construction project management systems in Samoa are
investigated via a questionnaire survey of 41 project managers to solicit
their views and experiences concerning the impact of human and cultural
influences on project management and CCC evaluation processes in Samoa.
Also provided are the results of a series of interviews with 32
practitioners and key stakeholders concerning the key barriers to
effective communication, and suggested strategies and proactive measures
for improving the CCC in Samoa. The findings highlight the need for
cultural sensitivity when designing an inter-organizational communication
strategy for the management of international projects. An organization
also needs to have a global perspective if it is involved in the
international construction market, and be willing to modify communication
strategies that are appropriate within the context of host cultures. A
strong link is established between changes in perspectives as a result of
experiences and the impact of CCC on project management systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 343-361
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Communication, culture, international project, project management, Samoa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902748713
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902748713
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:343-361
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Ting Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Ting
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Rethinking project management and exploring virtual design and construction as a potential solution
Abstract:
The construction sector is facing widespread criticism of its low
efficiency and poor performance. This has led to a rethink of contemporary
project management (PM). However, current critical perspectives have
failed to diagnose the practical problems existing in PM, and as a
consequence, no promising solutions have been proposed. In this research,
a combination of critical literature review, field works, case studies,
open debates and interviews revealed five fundamentally problematic
aspects of contemporary PM: (1) using artificial tools and methods; (2)
cannot try before build; (3) discontinuity in construction processes; (4)
ineffective information and knowledge management; and (5) creeping
managerialism. These problems were then scrutinized by referring them to
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) as a potential solution. Strengths
of VDC are explored, and hurdles that prevent it from gaining momentum are
also evaluated. It is found that the problems of contemporary PM can
largely be alleviated by the use of VDC although its many hurdles are yet
to be overcome. This research provides new insights into how construction
companies can adopt VDC technology to improve the problematic PM
practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-371
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Project management, virtual design and construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902838217
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:363-371
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Odysseus George Manoliadis
Author-X-Name-First: Odysseus George
Author-X-Name-Last: Manoliadis
Author-Name: John-Paris Pantouvakis
Author-X-Name-First: John-Paris
Author-X-Name-Last: Pantouvakis
Author-Name: Symeon Christodoulou
Author-X-Name-First: Symeon
Author-X-Name-Last: Christodoulou
Title: Improving qualifications-based selection by use of the fuzzy Delphi method
Abstract:
Among prevailing contract-awarding paradigms, the qualifications-based
selection (QBS) method offers awarding agencies a substantial level of
flexibility and multifactored decision-making capability over traditional
cost-based paradigms (such as competitive bidding). QBS is a process used
by owners to select proposers to whom they can award a project contract,
based on the proposers' professional qualifications in relation to the
specific project parameters. Further to being very suitable for the
selection of professional engineering design services, QBS can also be
applied for the selection of contractors involved in specialized
construction or design-build projects. In such cases, the procurement
method and the selection criteria used are critical decisions involving
several key project team members and decision factors, the formulation of
which requires complex evaluation methodologies. Within this context, a
process is proposed by which the traditional QBS method can be improved
via the utilization of a fuzzy Delphi method (FDM), a cross-mutation of
the traditional Delphi method (DM) and fuzzy logic (FL). The method
utilizes 'expert' appraisals to identify both the factors and their
weights in the overall evaluation process through a 'fuzzy attractiveness
ratio' (FAR) which is used for evaluating the bidders' suitability to
task.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 373-384
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Decision making, Delphi method, design-build, fuzzy logic, qualifications-based selection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902758993
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902758993
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:373-384
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sameh Monir El-Sayegh
Author-X-Name-First: Sameh Monir
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Sayegh
Title: Multi-criteria decision support model for selecting the appropriate construction management at risk firm
Abstract:
Selecting the appropriate firm is of paramount importance especially when
using a unique delivery method such as construction management at risk. In
addition to general contracting services, the construction management at
risk firm provides construction management services throughout the design
and construction phases. A new decision support model is proposed to
assist owners in the selection decision. Key selection factors were
identified through a literature review. They are divided into four
categories: firm characteristics; technical and commercial bid;
construction management services; and general contracting services. Each
consists of five selection factors. The selection criteria were determined
using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) based on a questionnaire that
was sent to construction professionals. The proposed model consists of
five functions: strategic alignment; selection criteria; initial
screening; firms' evaluations; and sensitivity analysis. The heart of the
model is the use of the AHP to develop the decision criteria and compare
candidate firms. A case study is also presented to demonstrate the
application of the model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 385-398
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Bidding, contracting, construction management at risk, decision support models, selection factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902759009
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902759009
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:385-398
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Author-Name: Tim Fitch
Author-X-Name-First: Tim
Author-X-Name-Last: Fitch
Title: Application of relationship marketing and management: a large contractor case study
Abstract:
Marketing-led enterprise change management initiated by a major UK
contractor is explored in this paper as a contrast to procurement-led
changes to projects driven by clients. Procurement-led initiatives try to
induce changes to behaviour through market governance. Relationship
marketing and management proactively change organizational behaviour, the
enterprise taking responsibility for its own destiny. Investment and
resource allocation, and organizational behaviour have posed constraints,
particularly concerning service continuity in construction. Overcoming
these constraints offers opportunities for delivering service improvements
and adding value for clients and yielding further increases in repeat
business and increasing profitability. Relationship marketing is the
conceptual starting point, application developing into relationship
management in line with theory. The main relationship marketing tenets are
outlined. In the case explored key account management (KAM) principles are
adopted as the conceptual point of departure for introducing relationship
marketing processes. Adoption resulted in some minor restructuring and
provided the basis for a series of process changes. Application is
producing early results in terms of increased client satisfaction,
consequential repeat business, inducing greater cross-functional
communication and collaboration within the firm resulting in cross-selling
opportunities between market segments. Some repeat business is producing
higher margins in response to meeting demands of the clients.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 399-410
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Change management, organizational behaviour, relationship management, relationship marketing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902777365
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902777365
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:399-410
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Catherine Comet
Author-X-Name-First: Catherine
Author-X-Name-Last: Comet
Title: Social capital and profits of small firms in the French construction industry
Abstract:
The profitability of small businesses in the French construction industry
depends partly on their social capital. However, social capital yields
advantages as well as constraints. How and under what conditions do social
networks improve a company's profit margins? From a socio-technical
perspective and strategic analysis, we defend the idea that return on
social capital is conditioned by the nature of the tasks performed and by
the interdependencies among firms. Comparing about 160 businesses from
four various crafts, we show that loose networks profit relatively
specialized businesses working independently on construction sites, while
cohesive networks benefit those businesses that are most affected by
socio-technical uncertainties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 411-418
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Profits, network analysis, SMEs, strategic analysis, socio-technical systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902822989
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902822989
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:411-418
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Title: Group-level safety climate in the Australian construction industry: within-group homogeneity and between-group differences in road construction and maintenance
Abstract:
In modern organizations it is overly simplistic to assume that a uniform,
organization-wide climate for safety develops. Workgroup-level safety
climates are more likely to arise in decentralized organizations and their
influence on occupational health and safety (OHS) behaviour is likely to
be stronger when work is non-routine, as in construction. The existence of
workgroup-level safety climates was examined in the Australian
construction industry. A group-level safety climate survey was conducted
in a road maintenance and construction organization. The clear factorial
structure produced in a larger sample of Australian defence logistics
workers was not replicated and factors splintered, possibly due to the
subject-to-item ratio in the construction study. However, the internal
reliability consistency of the factors produced in the earlier pilot study
was found to be acceptable for the construction industry data. Two
requisite conditions for the existence of group-level safety climates,
i.e. (1) within-group homogeneity; and (2) between-group variation, were
satisfied within the road construction and maintenance organization. The
results indicate that distinct workgroup safety climates exist in
construction, providing a theoretical explanation for why some workgroups
perform better in OHS than others, despite having similar risk exposure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 419-432
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Co-workers, group dynamics, road maintenance, safety climate, supervisory leadership,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902822971
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:419-432
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paula Gerber
Author-X-Name-First: Paula
Author-X-Name-Last: Gerber
Title: Defective Construction Work
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-433
Issue: 4
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902822153
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902822153
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:4:p:433-433
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ping Yung
Author-X-Name-First: Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Yung
Title: Institutional arrangements and construction safety in China: an empirical examination
Abstract:
Previous studies merely attempted to identify factors affecting safety
performance from the micro perspective of project management, while they
never questioned why those factors, such as lack of the top-management
support and training, existed. A macro perspective, informed by the
corollary of the Coase Theorem, was adopted here to show that suitable
institutional arrangements are essential for better safety performance in
a construction industry. Province-level construction safety records in
China from 1994 to 2000 were used to test the effects of institutional
arrangements on construction safety in China. Major factors affecting
construction safety were found to be the implementation of construction
safety laws, the rate of subcontracting, while neither the extent of using
temporary workers, nor the availability of resources, nor the level of per
capita GDP have any effects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 439-450
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Safety, Coase Theorem, institutional arrangements, farmer worker, subcontracting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902855633
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:439-450
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Author-Name: Mathias Gustafsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mathias
Author-X-Name-Last: Gustafsson
Author-Name: Liane Thuvander
Author-X-Name-First: Liane
Author-X-Name-Last: Thuvander
Title: An absorptive capacity model for green innovation and performance in the construction industry
Abstract:
Applying the model of absorptive capacity (ACAP), antecedents, predictors
and moderators for green innovation and performance in the construction
industry are investigated. The aim is to identify mechanisms that
influence green innovation and environmental performance in a construction
company. Data come from a questionnaire survey assessing environmental
attitudes, management and performance within the Swedish construction
industry. For data analysis, linear regression analysis was used. From
testing the ACAP theory and model, it was concluded that it has a
promising potential in explaining mechanisms behind green innovation and
performance. The application of ACAP has resulted in a revised ACAP model,
green ACAP. Findings indicate that organizations can affect their capacity
to absorb green innovations and improve their business performance by
focusing on three predictors of green business advantage: acquisition,
assimilation and transformation. As such, the green ACAP can serve as a
framework for focused efforts within the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 451-464
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Innovation, sustainable development, absorptive capacity, construction industry, survey, regression analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902896645
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:451-464
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Title: Applying critical realism to information and communication technologies: a case study
Abstract:
Critical realism is a philosophy of science which has been developed as
an alternative to positivism and interpretivism. It has been argued that
critical realism should be applied to research concerned with information
and communication technologies (ICTs). In particular, it has been argued
that critical realism can increase understanding of causal mechanisms and
contexts that are needed in order to achieve outcomes from actions.
However, there is a lack of examples of how critical realism might be
applied in practice. The aim of the research was to investigate the
potential for practical application of critical realism to research
concerned with ICTs. Four interrelated examples are presented from
practical application of critical realism during ICT research. These are
examples of causal mechanism, technological context, social context and
business context. Findings suggest that practical application of critical
realism to ICT research in AECO may be possible without any particular
training or extensive prior knowledge.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 465-472
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Technology management, information and communication technology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902842292
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902842292
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:465-472
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Morgan Tuuli
Author-X-Name-First: Martin Morgan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuuli
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Empowerment in project teams: a multilevel examination of the job performance implications
Abstract:
An integrative multilevel model of empowerment and job performance
behaviours is advanced, building on social cognitive theory (SCT).
Empowerment climate is hypothesized as influencing individual and team
performance behaviours directly and partially through individual and team
(psychological) empowerment. Using survey responses from 380 individuals,
nested in 115 project management teams, we tested the direct, indirect and
cross-level relationships delineated in the multilevel model, using a
combination of OLS regression models and hierarchical linear modelling
(HLM). Empowerment climate positively related not only directly to both
task and contextual performance behaviours but partially through both
individual and team empowerment. At the team level, empowerment climate
also positively related directly to taskwork and teamwork behaviours and
partially through team empowerment. The results suggest that empowerment
climate and psychological empowerment play complementary roles in
engendering individual and team performance behaviours and are therefore
not mutually exclusive. The findings are also evident of convergence in
management practices across cultures as well as different work contexts
and further provide concrete targets of manipulation by organizations and
leaders desirous of empowering individuals and teams in the project
context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 473-498
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Empowerment climate, hierarchical linear modelling (HLM), job performance behaviours, psychological empowerment, social cognitive theory (SCT),
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902729713
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:473-498
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Llewellyn Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Llewellyn
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Author-Name: Andrew Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Title: An entropy-based financial decision support system (e-FDSS) for project analysis in construction SMEs
Abstract:
Uncertainty contributes a major part in the accuracy of a decision-making
process while its inconsistency is always difficult to be solved by
existing decision-making tools. Entropy has been proved to be useful to
evaluate the inconsistency of uncertainty among different respondents. The
study demonstrates an entropy-based financial decision support system
called e-FDSS. This integrated system provides decision support to
evaluate attributes (funding options and multiple risks) available in
projects. Fuzzy logic theory is included in the system to deal with the
qualitative aspect of these options and risks. An adaptive genetic
algorithm (AGA) is also employed to solve the decision algorithm in the
system in order to provide optimal and consistent rates to these
attributes. Seven simplified and parallel projects from a Hong Kong
construction small and medium enterprise (SME) were assessed to evaluate
the system. The result shows that the system calculates risk adjusted
discount rates (RADR) of projects in an objective way. These rates
discount project cash flow impartially. Inconsistency of uncertainty is
also successfully evaluated by the use of the entropy method. Finally, the
system identifies the favourable funding options that are managed by a
scheme called SME Loan Guarantee Scheme (SGS). Based on these results,
resource allocation could then be optimized and the best time to start a
new project could also be identified throughout the overall project life
cycle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 499-513
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Decision support system, entropy, fuzzy logic, genetic algorithm, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902883049
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902883049
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:499-513
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Brochner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brochner
Title: Construction metaphors in Aristotle: knowledge, purpose, process
Abstract:
Writers on construction management have begun showing an interest in
Aristotle's views on ethics, leadership, metaphysics and change, although
overlooking that he frequently resorted to construction metaphors. This
investigation shows that 16 of his writings contain about 140 construction
metaphors and about 370 occurrences of construction terms. Metaphysics,
Nicomachean Ethics and Physics provide more than half of these metaphors.
For Aristotle, the process of house building is both knowledge driven and
purpose driven: the building is to be a shelter against the elements, and
the builder has to consider this ultimate goal for every step of
production when choosing tools and materials. Builders learn the art of
building by building; when they enjoy their work, they will go on
improving. Building users can judge whether a building is good or bad, not
builders. That Aristotle's metaphysics are object oriented and that
practical wisdom is prominent in his ethics appear as irrelevant to
construction, which was the typical example of managed production in his
time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 515-523
Issue: 5
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Construction management, construction process, learning, ethics, ancient construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902915643
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902915643
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:5:p:515-523
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Djoen San Santoso
Author-X-Name-First: Djoen San
Author-X-Name-Last: Santoso
Title: The construction site as a multicultural workplace: a perspective of minority migrant workers in Brunei
Abstract:
Construction projects have become progressively multicultural, especially
for countries with limited labour force where there is need to depend on
migrant workers. This multicultural environment can easily create problems
related to unfair treatment or discrimination. Focus group discussions
were conducted with migrant workers from Indonesia and Thailand to examine
factors directly and indirectly related to construction activities that
need to be considered in a diverse nationality construction site, with a
focus on the minority group. The study suggested that communication, wage
segmentation, task assignment and trust, scapegoatism, and belief and
religion are the important aspects needing to be carefully taken into
account to have a constructive working and living environment in a
multicultural project. Management should not overlook the above factors to
avoid disenfranchizing minority workers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 529-537
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Discrimination, motivation, labour relations, culture, minorities,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902960482
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:529-537
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ellen Lau
Author-X-Name-First: Ellen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lau
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Interpersonal trust and inter-firm trust in construction projects
Abstract:
Working relationships are important in effecting project performance and
cooperation is believed to be a behavioural consequence of trust. Trust,
being a quality of relationships, involves people interacting at
interpersonal and inter-firm levels. This is investigated through 10
partnering and non-partnering projects, using a validated trust scale. A
case study approach is used to collect qualitative data through a
quantitative approach to help understand the concept of trust. Data were
collected from clients, contractors, consultants and subcontractors.
Clients and contractors have a tendency to trust individuals whereas
contractors and subcontractors have a tendency to trust firms. Inter-firm
trust is better understood than interpersonal trust; but both are
associated with keeping commitments and demonstrating cooperation, even
though interpersonal trust is considered more important. Partnering does
not necessarily exhibit more trust than non-partnering projects whereas
clients and contractors have different emphasis on interpersonal and
inter-firm trust. Therefore, to promote trusting relationships in
multi-parties is to fulfil not only the technological and economical
goals, but also the moral and social goals as expressed in people
relationships such that a socially safe working place can be created. For
this reason, middle managers need to know about trust because they face
more relationship problems than others.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 539-554
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Interpersonal trust, inter-firm trust, relationship, partnering, project,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903003886
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:539-554
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Marc van der Meer
Author-X-Name-First: Marc
Author-X-Name-Last: van der Meer
Author-Name: Cecilie Bingham
Author-X-Name-First: Cecilie
Author-X-Name-Last: Bingham
Author-Name: Elisabeth Michielsens
Author-X-Name-First: Elisabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Michielsens
Author-Name: Sue Miller
Author-X-Name-First: Sue
Author-X-Name-Last: Miller
Title: Enabling and disabling: disability in the British and Dutch construction sectors
Abstract:
Though the British and Dutch approaches to disability in the construction
sector exhibit common features, Britain tends towards a capabilities model
compared with the Netherlands which is closer to a social model. The
construction sector is considerably more regulated in the Netherlands but
is in both countries highly disabling and exclusive. Sector-specific
disabling and enabling factors and policy measures were investigated in
the two countries with a view to identifying which policies might
facilitate labour market participation. The investigation was based on
interviews using similar questionnaires with key stakeholders, firms and
disabled employees and a focus group. Policy in each country addresses the
nature of exclusion in different ways. The conclusion drawn is that a
sector-specific approach is needed if disability policy in Britain is to
be more in tune with the social model—as apparent from the
comparison with the Netherlands.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 555-566
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Disability, health and safety, UK, Netherlands, discrimination, policy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902977445
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:555-566
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Vera Li
Author-X-Name-First: Vera
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Johnny Kwok Wai Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny Kwok Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Eddie Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Title: Competitiveness factors: a study of the real estate market in China
Abstract:
The execution of 'macro-adjustment' policies by the central government to
cool down the overheated real estate market in the past few years has
created an unfavourable operating environment for real estate developers
in Mainland China. Developers need to rethink their business model and
create a new form of competitive advantage in order to survive. Despite
this, research into the factors that influence the competitiveness of the
real estate market in China has been limited. Therefore, a survey of 58
real estate practitioners, experts and academics in China was conducted to
probe opinion on the factors that influence competitiveness in real estate
firms in China. Survey results suggest that the developer's financial
competency, market coverage and management competencies are vital to its
competitiveness. Findings also highlight the importance of industry
recognition/award, share in different types of property sales/development
projects, profit after tax, growth rate of their securities price, and
diversification of R&D in reflecting the competitiveness of real estate
developers in China. The findings provide an insight into the factors that
influence competitiveness in China's real estate market and also assist
practitioners to formulate competitiveness improvement strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 567-579
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Competitiveness, real estate market, developer, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903005865
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:567-579
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-Lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Title: Prediction of contractor default probability using structural models of credit risk: an empirical investigation
Abstract:
Structural models of credit risk can apply for quantitatively predicting
contractor defaults and pricing performance guarantees. However, the
application involves crucial empirical issues. Some of the empirical
issues are investigated using market and accounting data of public
construction firms in Taiwan. Statistical analyses are conducted using the
Wilcoxon rank sum test, Shumway's discrete-time hazard model, and the
receiver operating characteristic curve. Structural models are viable, and
market value tends to dominate other measures of economic or financial
distress in terms of prediction accuracy. However, when calibrated to
minimize Type I and Type II errors, the default boundary of market value
produces substantial residual errors. In addition, the calibrated boundary
is at 151% of face debt, much higher than those suggested by previous
empirical studies. This seems to reflect the idiosyncratic short-term debt
structures of Taiwanese construction firms. Leland and Toft's model is
recommended for further investigations, because their theory explains the
higher than expected calibrated boundary.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-596
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Contractor default, probability, prediction, structural model, regression analysis, ROC curve,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902960474
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902960474
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:581-596
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arjan Walraven
Author-X-Name-First: Arjan
Author-X-Name-Last: Walraven
Author-Name: Bauke de Vries
Author-X-Name-First: Bauke
Author-X-Name-Last: de Vries
Title: From demand driven contractor selection towards value driven contractor selection
Abstract:
The procurement of a construction contractor should consider more aspects
than only cost or price. Taking value and price into account to select the
'best value for money' bid results in adopting a structured multi-criteria
approach. An alternative contractor selection method is presented, which
identifies the contractor with the best potential to deliver the highest
value for money. An investigation of the client needs and product
performances for contractor selection has been conducted for a building
type, and the relative weight of each product performance is analysed
through a questionnaire. The relative weights of the product performances
are identified by allocating a fictional budget to the client needs and
translating these values into the relative weight of the product
performances by using the quality function deployment method. In the
contractor selection method, the relative importance of the product
performances are combined with the scores of the bids, resulting in the
best bid and contractor in a specific building project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 597-604
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Procurement, contractor selection, multi-criteria selection, tendering, quality function deployment, value,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902933356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:597-604
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Advanced Research Methods in the Built Environment
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 605-609
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902896637
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902896637
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:605-609
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Title: Policy, Management and Finance for Public-Private Partnerships
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 609-610
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902912301
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902912301
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:609-610
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Title: Procurement Systems: A Cross-Industry Project Management Perspective
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 610-611
Issue: 6
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902954139
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:6:p:610-611
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ifte Choudhury
Author-X-Name-First: Ifte
Author-X-Name-Last: Choudhury
Title: The effect of political unrest on construction time for food grain warehouses in Bangladesh
Abstract:
A range of poorly understood factors affect actual construction time in
the context of food sector projects in Bangladesh. One factor of
particular interest is political unrest. The data for this study were
obtained from a leading design and construction management company in
Bangladesh. The sample size consisted of data for 104 food grain warehouse
projects scattered all over the country. The effect of political unrest on
construction time was analysed in conjunction with other known variables
for actual construction time, such as increase in project cost and delay
in procurement of construction materials. The effect of local political
unrest on construction time was statistically significant even in the
presence of project cost and procurement of materials variables. Political
unrest could be included in prediction models used for finding out actual
construction time of food grain warehouse projects in Bangladesh. Based on
these findings, a prediction model for construction time for such projects
is developed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 619-624
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Bangladesh, cost, developing country, political unrest,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903009099
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:619-624
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ophir Rozenfeld
Author-X-Name-First: Ophir
Author-X-Name-Last: Rozenfeld
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Yehiel Rosenfeld
Author-X-Name-First: Yehiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosenfeld
Title: 'CHASTE': construction hazard assessment with spatial and temporal exposure
Abstract:
CHASTE—'Construction Hazard Assessment with Spatial and Temporal
Exposure'—is a conceptual model that enables forecasting of safety
risks in construction projects for different trades, at appropriate levels
of detail and reliability for different planning windows and managerial
purposes, in a highly automated fashion. Unlike earlier models, CHASTE
explicitly accounts for the fact that construction workers are frequently
endangered by activities performed by teams other than their own. The
risks to which workers are exposed change through time, as the activities
performed and the physical environment of construction sites change.
CHASTE uses a knowledge base of construction activities and probabilities
of loss-of-control events, coupled with a project's construction plan and
a digital building model, to forecast risk levels for work teams. It has
been implemented in prototype software and tested on two projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-638
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Construction safety, safety management, lean construction, risk analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903002771
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:625-638
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Noël Houthoofd
Author-X-Name-First: Noël
Author-X-Name-Last: Houthoofd
Title: Business definition and performance implications: the case of the Belgian construction sector
Abstract:
Business definition (either explicitly or implicitly defined) matters in
the construction sector in Belgium. A business is a three-dimensional
'strategic space' within an industry, defined by the buyer types targeted,
product types sold and geographical reach. The research setting is one of
family owned small non-diversified firms in the construction industry. The
sample consists of 61 firms. Data on these firms were gathered for the
year 2006. Firms with a similar business definition within the
construction sector were clustered. Three clusters could be delineated:
residential, non-residential and a civil engineering business. Performance
differs between the three businesses. Performance was measured with
perceptions on sales, sales growth, gross sales margin and return on
invested capital. Perceived performance correlated with financial
performance. Competitive forces differ according to the business. Firms in
the civil engineering sector working for government agencies performed
best.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 639-652
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Business definition, business domain choice, construction sector, performance differences,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903029543
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:639-652
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-Lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Chai-Chi Pi
Author-X-Name-First: Chai-Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Pi
Title: Valuation of multi-stage BOT projects involving dedicated asset investments: a sequential compound option approach
Abstract:
The valuation of multi-stage build-operate-transfer projects is not a
trivial task. It needs to deal with uncertain project values in future
expansions and the possibility of expansions or abandonment in the
presence of project risks. The valuation problem becomes more difficult
when multi-stage projects require upfront and intermediate dedicated asset
investments for future expansions. Dedicated asset investments may or may
not create project values, depending on whether future expansions could be
justified and realized. A sequential compound option model is proposed to
tackle these important valuation issues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-666
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Valuation, build-operate-transfer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903002789
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:653-666
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helena Johnsson
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnsson
Author-Name: John Henrik Meiling
Author-X-Name-First: John Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Meiling
Title: Defects in offsite construction: timber module prefabrication
Abstract:
The construction industry is based on craftsmanship. Quality control and
assurance procedures applied in manufacturing cannot usually be readily
applied in construction, where there are higher degrees of uniqueness in
each project. One category of companies, industrialized housebuilders, is
attempting to bridge some of the gaps between construction and
manufacturing. These companies prefabricate building modules for later
assembly at the building site. Since they are wholly responsible for large
parts of the building process, these companies have greater opportunities
to control and improve quality in a more consistent way than ordinary
construction companies. Thus, it could be hypothesized that the frequency
and severity of defects should be lower in industrialized housing than in
ordinary construction. The aim of the study presented here is to examine
this hypothesis by measuring and characterizing defects in industrialized
housing. The design and manufacturing processes at two Swedish timber
module prefabrication firms has been analysed through interviews, site
visits and document reviews. Quality audits from three phases of the
building process were compiled, analysed and categorized to provide
statistical measures of defects in industrialized housing. The results
show that the case study companies are better in terms of product quality
than conventional housing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 667-681
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Building defects, offsite production, quality management, industrialized housing, modular construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903002797
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:667-681
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Author-Name: Shu-Ling Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: The challenges of creating actionable knowledge: an action research perspective
Abstract:
Academia has a critical role in developing new knowledge which
construction industry practitioners need to envision, undertake and
sustain successful innovation. The new knowledge produced by academia,
however, often does not satisfy the needs of practitioners. This
unsatisfactory state of affairs is frequently taken to be the consequence
of the cultural, motivational and operational differences between the two
communities. Actionable knowledge is presented as a useful concept which
can fuse the expectations, contributions and outputs of academia and
practitioners. Within this context, action research is argued to be an
appropriate methodology to develop successful actionable knowledge.
Results from an action research project are given which provide
researchers and practitioners greater understanding of the key factors
that shape the degree to which action research produces actionable
knowledge: change focus, collaboration capabilities and systematic
process. The criteria intrinsic to Mode 2 research (Gibbons et al., 1994)
are demonstrated to have utility in evidencing actionable knowledge. The
implication for policy is that there is a need to develop and use
appropriate actionable knowledge frameworks and measures to design funding
calls, and to evaluate research proposals and outputs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 683-694
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Actionable knowledge, action research, Mode 2 knowledge production,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903037702
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:683-694
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lena Elisabeth Bygballe
Author-X-Name-First: Lena Elisabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Bygballe
Author-Name: Marianne Jahre
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Jahre
Title: Balancing value creating logics in construction
Abstract:
Construction companies apply different logics to create value. Some
companies are organized according to one primary logic, while others are
based on multiple logics. Different value creating logics have different
cost and value drivers according to the type of activities involved and
the interdependencies between them. Where multiple logics coexist, the
different cost and value drivers may generate tensions. The purpose of the
paper is to study how construction companies maintain a balance between
multiple logics and how they handle tensions between them through a case
study from the Norwegian construction industry. Both project management
and supply chain management perspectives have been used to explain
construction practice. By applying a 'value configuration analysis', it is
clear how value creation is achieved in construction practice by balancing
the needs of both the project and the supply chain. Both intra- and
inter-organizational interactions are vital in creating value across
different logics. The contribution of the study lies in applying this
framework to the construction area by adding knowledge about the
underlying principles of different logics, including the tensions between
them. Furthermore, the case study illustrates how these may be handled in
order to create value in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-704
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Norway, value creating logics, interdependence, case study, interaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903096609
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903096609
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:695-704
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joseph Tah
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph
Author-X-Name-Last: Tah
Title: Implementing IT in Construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 705-706
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902933349
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902933349
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:705-706
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: Book reviews
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 707-707
Issue: 7
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902992923
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902992923
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:7:p:707-707
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Title: Construction management and economics: the epistemology of a multidisciplinary design science
Abstract:
Research in the field of construction management and economics (CME) can
be characterized as a multidisciplinary design science. Results from the
sciences and humanities are necessary inputs for this field of research
that deals with design, production and operation of the built environment.
The output of CME research as multidisciplinary design science consists of
three types of solution concepts: empirical generalizations based on
statistical data analysis (technological laws), concepts that specify what
to do, if a certain result is to be attained under given circumstances
(functional rules), and insights in the interrelationship between design,
production and operation of the built environment and social practice
(socio-technological understanding). Scientific justification of these
solution concepts is obtained through testing them in the specific context
of the built environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 713-720
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Epistemology, knowledge production, design science,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117777
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903117777
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:713-720
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Ranon Chotibhongs
Author-X-Name-First: Ranon
Author-X-Name-Last: Chotibhongs
Title: Detection and prevention of unbalanced bids
Abstract:
Unbalanced bidding is a serious problem for the construction owner
because it may increase the cost of construction The most common way to
mathematically unbalance a bid is frontloading where a bidder overstates
the unit price of line items scheduled to be performed early in the
project and understates the unit price of line items performed later. A
bidder can also overstate the unit price of a line item whose quantity was
somehow underrated by the engineer. If the owner proves that a
mathematically unbalanced bid costs more to perform, the bid is said to be
materially unbalanced, in which case the owner can reject the bid. A model
is presented that formalizes and automates the process of detecting
mathematically and materially unbalanced bids by comparing line item
prices with the engineer's estimates and the average prices offered by the
bidders. This model allows owners to detect and reject unbalanced bids,
and deters bidders from unbalancing their bid.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 721-732
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Bids, mathematical models, financial management, construction costs, optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117785
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:721-732
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wen-der Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Wen-der
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Pei-lun Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Pei-lun
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Shuen-Ho Yao
Author-X-Name-First: Shuen-Ho
Author-X-Name-Last: Yao
Author-Name: Shen-Jung Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Shen-Jung
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: KVAM: model for measuring knowledge management performance of engineering community of practice
Abstract:
The research presents the development of the knowledge value-adding model
(KVAM) for quantitative performance measurement of the community of
practice (CoP) of the knowledge management system (KMS) in an A/E
consulting firm. The proposed KVAM combines several existing KM theories
including knowledge creation spiral, knowledge chain model, and knowledge
value added theory to form a process-level model for measuring the
performance of a generic community of practice (CoP). Case study results
show that the proposed KVAM provides KM managers with a useful tool not
only to monitor the performance of a CoP and its members but also to plan
an effective strategy for performance improvement. Unlike the traditional
organizational-level approaches, the proposed KVAM was concluded to better
reflect the actual values solely generated by the KMS rather than other
management factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 733-747
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Knowledge management, community of practice, performance evaluation, engineering consulting, value-adding models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903074978
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903074978
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:733-747
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Khalied Hesham Hyari
Author-X-Name-First: Khalied Hesham
Author-X-Name-Last: Hyari
Author-Name: Khaled El-Rayes
Author-X-Name-First: Khaled
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Rayes
Author-Name: Mohammad El-Mashaleh
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Mashaleh
Title: Automated trade-off between time and cost in planning repetitive construction projects
Abstract:
An automated model is developed to support the optimization of the
planning and scheduling of repetitive construction projects. The model
provides the capability of optimizing two important objectives commonly
sought in scheduling repetitive construction projects: minimizing project
duration; and minimizing project cost. The model performs this
multi-objective optimization using a genetic algorithm approach. The
output of the model is a set of optimal solutions that represent the
trade-off between time and cost in planning repetitive construction
projects. Furthermore, the model can be utilized to find a single
scheduling solution that provides the minimum overall project cost by
simply adding project indirect cost to the obtained project direct cost
for each of the obtained scheduling solutions on the Pareto optimal curve.
Other important time-related costs are also considered in the model
including: early completion incentives, late completion penalties and lane
rental costs. Providing the planners of repetitive construction projects
with an automated set of optimal time-cost trade-off solutions should
contribute to cost-effective and speedy delivery of this type of
construction project. An application example is analysed to illustrate the
use of the model and demonstrate its capabilities in generating optimal
trade-off solutions between minimizing the project time and cost for
repetitive construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 749-761
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Repetitive construction, scheduling, genetic algorithms, optimization, resource utilization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117793
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903117793
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:749-761
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ben Dozie Ilozor
Author-X-Name-First: Ben Dozie
Author-X-Name-Last: Ilozor
Title: Differential management of waste by construction sectors: a case study in Michigan, USA
Abstract:
Waste is a great problem in the world of construction. If dealt with
appropriately, there can be many benefits, including lower overall cost,
faster production, a higher quality and more sustainable buildings. There
are many solutions available for minimizing waste during construction.
However, a great amount of waste still exists, whether in residential,
commercial, industrial, infrastructural or other constructions. The
purpose of this investigation is to ascertain key sources of waste, and
whether generation varies with the type and size of the constructors. A
sample of 30 general contractors was studied, and several null hypotheses
on waste generation and minimization differences among sectors were tested
using the Kruskal-Wallis H-test. Although subtle shifts were observed in
the aspects of waste behaviour that seemed predicated on construction
sectors and capital base, to some extent the proposition that the
construction type and size can influence waste generation and minimization
was validated. Based on this study, some solutions are provided as viable
avenues to managing and minimizing construction waste across sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 763-770
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Construction sectors, waste management, differences,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117769
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903117769
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:763-770
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kunhee Choi
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhee
Author-X-Name-Last: Choi
Author-Name: Eul-Bum Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Eul-Bum
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: C. William Ibbs
Author-X-Name-First: C. William
Author-X-Name-Last: Ibbs
Author-Name: Yong-Woo Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Yong-Woo
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Title: Multifaceted public outreach and cost-benefit analysis for its effectiveness validation
Abstract:
A heavily trafficked 4.5km highway stretch on Interstate 15 east of Los
Angeles was rebuilt using two extended closures, each spanning nine days
with 24/7 operations. Before and during the closures, a multifaceted,
extensive, dynamic public outreach programme was implemented to gain
public support for the project and to minimize inconvenience to the
public. That outreach programme is described, its overall effectiveness in
terms of total net benefit and traffic inconvenience during lane closures
is assessed, and changes in public perception of the accelerated
construction strategy resulting from the outreach programme is examined.
Pre- and post-construction surveys performed using the project website
mirrored the findings of the traffic measurement study, indicating that
the outreach programme effectively reduced traffic demand. The results of
two web-based surveys with a combined total of approximately 400
respondents indicated a dramatic change in public perception of the
accelerated construction strategy. The survey results showed that strong
initial objection to the accelerated project eventually became supportive
of future, accelerated projects. The cost-benefit analysis showed that the
additional cost of the outreach programme was outweighed by the savings
achieved from reduced road user delay costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 771-782
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Infrastructure management, project strategies, web-based system, cost-benefit analysis, public outreach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903096591
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903096591
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:771-782
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amy Nicole Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy Nicole
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Title: Organizational learning during internationalization: acquiring local institutional knowledge
Abstract:
Organizational learning plays an important role for firms entering new
international markets. Acquiring knowledge of a foreign market helps firms
to decrease uncertainties, misunderstandings and risks, allowing them to
plan and achieve project expectations more accurately. Little is known,
however, about how real estate developers, contractors and engineering
firms initially collect important local knowledge for their international
projects. This study uses qualitative research methods to explore the
sources firms use to acquire different types of local knowledge. The
results indicate that organizational learning is a complex process, and
although similarities exist, different types of firms use different
sources to collect needed knowledge. The research contributes to theory by
responding to requests for additional research on how firms actually
acquire and develop institutional knowledge. In addition, by understanding
the sources used to acquire different types of institutional knowledge,
company managers can determine the best sources to employ to acquire
knowledge that is important for their specific business.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 783-797
Issue: 8
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Organizational learning, international projects, institutional theory, internationalization, knowledge management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117801
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903117801
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:8:p:783-797
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abigail Powell
Author-X-Name-First: Abigail
Author-X-Name-Last: Powell
Author-Name: Tarek Hassan
Author-X-Name-First: Tarek
Author-X-Name-Last: Hassan
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Chris Carter
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Carter
Title: Note: Exploring gender differences in construction research: a European perspective
Abstract:
Research suggests that women in academia face problematic career paths as
a result of masculine cultures and horizontal segregation. At the same
time, research in the construction sector has documented the barriers
women face in entering and remaining in construction careers. Construction
academia is investigating in this exploratory study to determine whether
gender disparities found in academic research generally are valid in this
field. As there is a lack of data on women in academia, particularly by
sub-disciplines, scientific publication is used to explore gender
differences and similarities. Publication is a significant area where
gender disparities have been found in other fields and an area that can
have substantial consequences for career progression in academia. The data
are from a wider European study exploring women's participation in
construction research and are based on secondary analysis of statistics
from the ISI Web of Knowledge. Gender differences in publication are found
to exist, suggesting that women are under-represented in construction
research at a similar rate to women in engineering and technology
academia. However, there are important differences between the different
areas of construction research, which indicate that women may not face the
same barriers and difficulties in all areas of construction academia. It
also highlights the need for further research to investigate horizontal
segregation and the gendered nature of publication, citation and
collaboration in construction research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 803-807
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Europe, gender, publication, research, women,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903179736
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903179736
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:803-807
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ignacio Castro
Author-X-Name-First: Ignacio
Author-X-Name-Last: Castro
Author-Name: Jose Luis Galan
Author-X-Name-First: Jose Luis
Author-X-Name-Last: Galan
Author-Name: Cristobal Casanueva
Author-X-Name-First: Cristobal
Author-X-Name-Last: Casanueva
Title: Antecedents of construction project coalitions: a study of the Spanish construction industry
Abstract:
Research into the formation of alliances, relevant in the field of
strategic management and especially, in the construction industry, is
often explained in terms of interdependency and complementarities
(exogenous factors). In contrast, the influence of a firm's social
relations networks (endogenous factors) has hardly been studied at all.
Thus, a model is needed that includes both exogenous and endogenous
factors as antecedents to the formation of strategic alliances in the
construction industry. Cooperation in the construction sector is
especially frequent, above all in public works programmes, as their scale
requires coalitions of different-sized firms. Accordingly, to explore how
both exogenous and endogenous factors influence the formation of
alliances, a social network analytical method—Multiple Regression
Quadratic Assignment Procedure (MRQAP)—was applied to cooperative
project coalitions in the Spanish public works construction sector from
2001-2007. Empirical findings confirm that construction companies form
coalitions, principally on the basis of past alliances. Membership of
business associations and groups is also a key factor, though the
influence of geographic proximity is the most debatable result. In the
construction industry, the formation of alliances is conditioned, among
other factors, by previous social and economic relations that can generate
the necessary information and trust for the selection of whichever partner
is considered the most suitable for the development of the joint project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 809-822
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Social ties, alliances, inter-organizational relations, cooperation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903117751
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903117751
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:809-822
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Boeing Singh Laishram
Author-X-Name-First: Boeing Singh
Author-X-Name-Last: Laishram
Author-Name: Satyanaranaya Kalidindi
Author-X-Name-First: Satyanaranaya
Author-X-Name-Last: Kalidindi
Title: Desirability rating analysis for debt financing of public-private partnership road projects
Abstract:
Public-private partnership (PPP) road projects are highly leveraged
capital-intensive projects. Lenders, which provide the major portion of
financing in the form of debt instruments, undertake loan approval
processes to examine the various aspects of the projects that could
influence the debt servicing capability while making credit decisions. In
view of this, project sponsors could also assess beforehand how desirable
is the project from the debt financing perspective in order to facilitate
timely arrangement of debt financing and avoid funding problems. The
Desirability Rating Analytical Tool (DRAT) has been developed in order to
enable the project sponsor to assess how desirable the project is from a
debt financing perspective. DRAT uses the aggregation operator Choquet
fuzzy integral to aggregate the information relating to the various
aspects of PPP road projects that lenders take into account while making
credit decisions. The application of DRAT is illustrated with an example
of a PPP road project from a National Highways Development Programme
undertaken by the National Highway Authority of India, Government of
India. DRAT expressed the result of the information aggregation in the
form of a desirability rating profile indicating the degrees of membership
to different levels of desirability. The desirability rating profiles of
the project provide valuable information for decision making and can help
in formulating strategies on improving the performance of the project
where it is not performing satisfactorily.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 823-837
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Decision making, public-private partnerships, fuzzy set, risk management, project finance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222387
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903222387
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:823-837
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Mubashir Ali
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Mubashir
Author-X-Name-Last: Ali
Author-Name: Ashraf Elazouni
Author-X-Name-First: Ashraf
Author-X-Name-Last: Elazouni
Title: Finance-based CPM/LOB scheduling of projects with repetitive non-serial activities
Abstract:
Projects of repetitive non-serial activities constitute a major category
of construction projects which can be scheduled more conveniently using
the line of balance (LOB) technique. Generally, scheduling activities such
that the expenditures are always in balance with the available cash is a
must to devise financially feasible schedules. The objective is to
integrate a CPM/LOB model for a project of repetitive non-serial
activities with a cash flow model and utilize the integrated model to
devise financially feasible schedules. The genetic algorithms (GAs)
technique is employed to maximize the profit at the end of the project
under the constraints of available cash. The optimization of the
integrated models was demonstrated using an example project of 15
activities carried out at five units. The CPM/LOB model was validated
against the results of a dynamic programming model in the literature and
further by conducting a sensitivity analysis of the results of the
integrated model. Finally, the model offers an effective financial
planning tool for projects of repetitive non-serial activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-856
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Scheduling, repetitive construction, genetic algorithms, cash flow management, line of balance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903191764
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903191764
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:839-856
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Liu Shu-Shun
Author-X-Name-First: Liu
Author-X-Name-Last: Shu-Shun
Author-Name: Kuo-Chuan Shih
Author-X-Name-First: Kuo-Chuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Shih
Title: A framework of critical resource chain for project schedule analysis
Abstract:
Analysing a schedule is beneficial to help stakeholders understand the
scheduled project. Project schedules, which create time plans based on the
critical path method (CPM) or on resource-constrained project scheduling
problem (RCPSP) optimization, are targets herein. The Theory of
Constraints (TOC) treats a schedule as a system. Schedule elements are
suspected constraints and a goal depends on the schedule creation policy.
Resource information is further surveyed herein to identify true
constraints. A framework is proposed to integrate identified constraints
on a schedule, and the critical resource chain concept is introduced.
Three scenarios illustrate the proposed framework under different
scheduling considerations. Results explain schedule constraints, and
several schedule analysis issues are discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 857-869
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Critical path method, resource-constrained project scheduling problem optimization, Theory of Constraints, resource importance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903171196
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903171196
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:857-869
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Les Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Les
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Author-Name: Steven Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Title: Reassessing productivity in the construction sector to reflect hidden innovation and the knowledge economy
Abstract:
With the development of a knowledge economy, it is reasonable to assume
that the level of innovation should be particularly high and that it
should have a major effect on investment and productivity across all
sectors, including the construction industry. For a valid assessment of
the economic performance of the construction sector in terms of its
productivity, it is important that the economic benefits for the sector
from technological change are properly recognized but the impact of such
benefits may be 'hidden' due to measurement issues, as innovative activity
and investment in intangible assets have both gone unrecognized in
official statistics. Much of the innovation in the construction sector is
hidden from conventional measures and, for the UK economy, there is
evidence that investment in intangibles may be even greater than tangible
investment, if a definition of intangible assets incorporating spending on
a broad range of knowledge-based assets including organizational capital,
human capital, etc. is taken. While accurate data are difficult to
determine, an appraisal of the potential for utilizing existing data
sources and for improved measurement is presented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 871-879
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Economic performance, innovation, intangible investment, knowledge economy, productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903131166
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903131166
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:871-879
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ivan Damnjanovic
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Damnjanovic
Author-Name: Xue Zhou
Author-X-Name-First: Xue
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhou
Title: Impact of crude oil market behaviour on unit bid prices: the evidence from the highway construction sector
Abstract:
It is well known that the cost of highway construction is affected by the
cost of crude oil. While this relationship is highly visible for
construction items such as asphalt cement (a by-product in the process of
refining oil), the effects of the crude oil prices on the cost of other
construction items, such as concrete cement or construction operations are
less direct, but equally important. For unit-based contracts without price
adjustment clauses, this relationship is of a particular significance. In
fact, an increase in price of fuel could result in substantial losses, as
contractors are not protected. Hence, to hedge against this risk,
contractors are likely to incorporate a premium in bid prices to manage
project risks. The objective of this paper is to investigate the evidence
of this behaviour. New evidence shows that the expected change in oil
prices (the difference between future and spot price) and the implied
volatility in the oil market affect the price of bid items for contracts
without price adjustment clauses. Such results allow for more effective
implementation of risk management on project- and programme-level basis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 881-890
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Unit bid cost, crude oil price, implied volatility, Extreme Bounds Analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903171204
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903171204
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:881-890
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Udayangani Kulatunga
Author-X-Name-First: Udayangani
Author-X-Name-Last: Kulatunga
Author-Name: Dilanthi Amaratunga
Author-X-Name-First: Dilanthi
Author-X-Name-Last: Amaratunga
Author-Name: Richard Haigh
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Haigh
Title: Critical success factors of construction research and development
Abstract:
Research and development (R&D) activities are important to the
construction industry to successfully address the challenges placed upon
it and to be competitive. Identifying the factors that influence the
success of construction R&D activities is important as such identification
would help the research team to concentrate on the most significant and
influential factors and the proper management of them to enhance the
performance of construction R&D activities. The critical success factors
(CSFs) of construction research and development during its different
phases namely initiation, conceptualization, development and launch and at
the project management stage were evaluated. A questionnaire survey and a
series of semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data from
academic members and industrial partners who have been involved in
construction R&D activities. It revealed that from the initiation to the
launch of the R&D project, emphasis was placed on the stakeholders'
satisfaction. In contrast, less attention was given to satisfying the
researchers' requirements during the R&D project. The principal
investigator's role in leading the project and providing sufficient
commitment; effective monitoring and controlling of activities, having a
proper dissemination plan and effective dissemination of work were also
elaborated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 891-900
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Critical success factors, research and development, stakeholder satisfaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903186152
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903186152
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:891-900
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Schaufelberger
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Schaufelberger
Title: Life Cycle Project Management: A Systems Approach to Managing Complex Projects
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 901-901
Issue: 9
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903171188
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903171188
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:9:p:901-901
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Christine Raisanen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Raisanen
Title: Editorial: informality and emergence in construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 907-912
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903361912
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903361912
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:907-912
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Alfred Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John Alfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: Mike Kagioglou
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Kagioglou
Title: Informality in organization and research: a review and a proposal
Abstract:
The growing interest in informal and emergent features of organizations
has accompanied changes in both the dominant forms of organization and
prevailing academic views about how best to think about and research them.
It is argued here that currently espoused dichotomous characterizations of
both organizations and research approaches are over-simplified and
misleading. A review of types of organization research is conducted and it
is suggested that the relationship between theory and data collection
provides a more detailed and illuminating taxonomy than a distinction
between qualitative and quantitative research. Two major distinctions are
proposed: (1) between theory driven and phenomenon driven research; (2)
between descriptive and prescriptive theory. It is suggested that
organization theory is properly prescriptive in nature. The place of
informality in organization and management studies is explicated, drawing
on insights from Wittgenstein and ethnomethodology (EM). A distinction is
drawn between (1) the degree of formality in particular organizational
settings; and (2) the necessarily informal foundations of formal
organizational schemes and methods. Finally, the organization of research
itself is addressed. A prescriptive theory (TFV) is suggested as a means
of organizing and explaining the research process. This suggestion serves
as both (1) a proposal for research management; and (2) an illustration of
the relationship between theory and organization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 913-922
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Research methods, research policy, organization theory, organizational analysis, production process,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903273950
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903273950
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:913-922
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Title: Living the dream? Understanding partnering as emergent practice
Abstract:
The 'practice turn' in organizational studies has recently emerged as an
important set of perspectives which has implications for understanding
processes of knowing and learning within and between organizations.
Consisting of a range of different approaches, it emphasizes the situated
nature of knowing and learning in practice and offers an alternative to
understanding human action that transcends the dualism of structure and
agency effects on action. The ontological and epistemological
underpinnings of a practice-based approach are explored before attention
is directed towards assessing the implications for understanding the
knowledge, learning and change in project-based organizations associated
with the emergence of partnering.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 923-933
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Partnering, practice-based perspective, organizational learning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190902974145
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190902974145
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:923-933
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Author-Name: Monty Sutrisna
Author-X-Name-First: Monty
Author-X-Name-Last: Sutrisna
Title: Methodological strategies to gain insights into informality and emergence in construction project case studies
Abstract:
In investigating complex situations, such as construction projects, the
case study approach has been considered reliable to capture rich
information for the purpose of the investigation by allowing the
investigators to retain the holistic and meaningful characteristics of
real-life events. Subsequent to data capture, data analysis will take
place according to the intended research methodology. However, there is a
potential for certain information to be hidden within the data and diluted
during this data analysis phase. In order to minimize this and to reveal
informal aspects and freshly emerging themes from the case study data, it
is proposed that there is great value in analysing case studies on various
levels, through different phases using multiple methods. Examples of the
outcomes of applying multiple analyses involving different approaches,
such as grounded theory methodology, rich picture diagrams and cognitive
mapping, to the same set of data from multiple case studies are presented
and discussed. This application of multiple analyses to case study
research of construction projects provides valuable insights by revealing
informal aspects and stimulating the emergence of a fresh understanding of
the processes and interactions among different stakeholders. From the
findings, the limits of the formal management systems were revealed.
Further, the limits of tacit understanding around an evolving shared
vision for a project were found to be substantial dimensions in
understanding construction projects in a more holistic way.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 935-948
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Case study, cognitive mapping, construction projects, emergence, grounded theory methodology, informality, rich picture diagrams,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903273943
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Charlotte Baarts
Author-X-Name-First: Charlotte
Author-X-Name-Last: Baarts
Title: Collective individualism: the informal and emergent dynamics of practising safety in a high-risk work environment
Abstract:
Safety knowledge appears to be 'a doing'. In construction work safety is
practised in the complex interrelationship between the individual, pair
and gang. Thus the aim is to explore the nature and scope of individualist
and collectivist preferences pertaining to the practice of safety at a
construction site. An ethnographic fieldwork, in which the researcher
worked as an apprentice, will provide detailed and experience-near
insights into the complexity of these processes. Findings show that
individualist and collectivist preferences influence the amount of risk
the individual worker will assume and expose workmates to. Aspects such as
self-regulation, self-confidence and independence are acceptable values
only to the extent that they do not pose a threat to the solidarity of the
community or safety of other workers. The informal practice of safety is a
tight-rope act that involves balancing the form and scope of these
preferences.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 949-957
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Collectivism, ethnography, individualism, safety, teamwork,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903147501
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Title: Unfolding roles and identities of professionals in construction projects: exploring the informality of practices
Abstract:
Using a practice lens perspective, the environmental professional's role
is examined in relation to social practices in construction projects.
Drawing on several case studies of environmental management, the findings
show that contradictory practices prevent environmental professionals from
fulfilling their expected role and function. Different world-views and
communication cultures as well as a perception of environmental management
as bureaucratic nit-picking, create tensions between environmental work
and project practice. Dealing with these tensions, environmental
professionals develop alternative identities to adapt to the different
situations that they find themselves in, i.e. formal roles in accordance
with their job description and informal roles to suit different project
practices. However, this strategy seems to result in further fragmentation
between existing practices, creating barriers between professions. The
study reveals four aspects that affect the professional's role: relational
and positional power, professional identity, visibility, and the
facilitation of meaning-making processes in the project context. The
research approach taken has created an opportunity to closely follow the
development of an emerging profession in construction, opening a window
that allows connecting a local and situational context to a wider societal
discourse of environmentalism.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 959-968
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Social practice, professionals, environmental management, roles, practice-based research,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903179728
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susse Georg
Author-X-Name-First: Susse
Author-X-Name-Last: Georg
Author-Name: Kjell Tryggestad
Author-X-Name-First: Kjell
Author-X-Name-Last: Tryggestad
Title: On the emergence of roles in construction: the qualculative role of project management
Abstract:
Within construction, roles are generally thought of in terms of a
division of labour, tasks and responsibilities, established through
contractual and/or cultural relations. Moreover, roles are also presumed
to be relatively stable. Drawing upon actor network theory, roles are
re-conceptualized and it is argued that roles are emergent and that they
depend upon the tools and devices with which the project managers are
equipped. A case study of the construction of a skyscraper, the 'Turning
Torso', in Malmo, Sweden highlights the hybrid role of project management.
In some instances project management may act as a mediator having
qualitative effects on the project while in other instances project
management may only be an intermediary, merely speeding up the process by
conveying the concerns of others. The concept of qualculative project
management is introduced to account for this emerging hybrid role. The
analysis shows the ways in which the budget and other devices participates
in enacting a qualculative role for project management, while
simultaneously being involved in negotiating boundaries between
professional roles in construction as well as the qualitative and
quantitative properties of the building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 969-981
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Roles, emergence, construction process, project management, budgeting,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903181096
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:969-981
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christopher Gorse
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Gorse
Author-Name: Stephen Emmitt
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Emmitt
Title: Informal interaction in construction progress meetings
Abstract:
The small amount of published research into construction project meetings
demonstrates some of the principal difficulties of investigating such
sensitive business environments. Using the Bales Interaction Process
Analysis (IPA) research method, data on group interaction were collected.
A project outcome, namely whether the project was within contract budget,
was used as a basis of enquiry between interaction patterns. Analysis was
concerned with the socio-emotional (relationship building) and the
task-based components of communication and the positive and negative
socio-emotional interaction characteristics. Socio-emotional interaction
was found to be significantly greater in the projects completed within
budget. Socio-emotional interaction is used to express feelings in
relation to tasks and it serves as the flux that creates and sustains the
group's social framework, which is crucial in a project environment. The
data provide an indication of the importance of informal communication in
the maintenance of relationships within project meetings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 983-993
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Interpersonal communication, interaction, meetings, project success,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903179710
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:983-993
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: Tacit knowledge in rock construction work: a study and a critique of the use of the term
Abstract:
Tacit knowledge is one of the perennial issues of discussion in both the
knowledge management and construction management literature. Being by
definition that which cannot be properly explained in existing operative
vocabularies, tacit knowledge is a residual category in prescribed
analytical frameworks in the knowledge management literature. However,
knowledge that is not easily explained verbally or in written form plays a
decisive role in the construction industry. For instance, in the case of
rock construction work, the most skilled construction workers are capable
of carrying out certain procedures without fully mastering accompanying
operative vocabularies, thereby demonstrating the capacity to use what has
been called aesthetic knowledge, a specific form of tacit knowledge
recognizing the limits of verbal and written communication. Aesthetic
knowledge is an emergent competence residing in everyday practices and is
therefore capable of transcending operative vocabularies. In practical
terms, both managers and practitioners should pay attention to the
importance of tacit knowledge and aesthetic knowledge and construction
companies should seek to provide arenas where tacit and aesthetic
knowledge should be shared effectively.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 995-1003
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Tacit knowledge, rock construction work, aesthetic knowledge,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903236379
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903236379
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:10:p:995-1003
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chung-Chin Kao
Author-X-Name-First: Chung-Chin
Author-X-Name-Last: Kao
Author-Name: Stuart Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Emergent discourses of construction competitiveness: localized learning and embeddedness
Abstract:
Research is described that sought to understand how senior managers
within regional contracting firms conceptualize and enact competitiveness.
Existing formal discourses of construction competitiveness include the
discourse of 'best practice' and the various theories of competitiveness
as routinely mobilized within the academic literature. Such discourses
consistently underplay the influence of contextual factors in shaping how
competitiveness is enacted. An alternative discourse of competitiveness is
outlined based on the concepts of localized learning and embeddedness. Two
case studies of regional construction firms provide new insights into the
emergent discourses of construction competitiveness. The empirical
findings resonate strongly with the concepts of localized learning and
embeddedness. The case studies illustrate the importance of de-centralized
structures which enable multiple business units to become embedded within
localized markets. A significant degree of autonomy is essential to
facilitate localized entrepreneurial behaviour. In essence, sustained
competitiveness was found to depend upon the extent to which
de-centralized business units enact ongoing processes of localized
learning. Once local business units have become embedded within localized
markets the essential challenge is how to encourage continued
entrepreneurial behaviour while maintaining a degree of centralized
control and coordination. Of key importance is the recognition that the
capabilities that make companies competitive transcend organizational
boundaries such that they become situated within complex networks of
relational ties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1005-1017
Issue: 10
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Competitiveness, contractor, case study, discourse, embeddedness, localized learning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903273935
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903273935
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Author-Name: Shu-Shun Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Shun
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Chang-Jung Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Chang-Jung
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Two-stage profit optimization model for linear scheduling problems considering cash flow
Abstract:
Linear projects with repetitive activity in units are considered for
investigation, and a two-stage profit optimization model for linear
scheduling problems using constraint programming (CP) is proposed. To
maintain work continuity for repetitive activities, interruption time and
crew availability are addressed, and the optimization process is presented
as follows: (1) optimizing the primary objective (project profit); (2)
minimizing total interruption time, given the optimized value of the
primary objective. Repetitive activities incur batches of budget
expenditure according to activity implementation time. Cash flow and
financial elements are therefore integrated into the optimization model.
Owing to flexible CP techniques, contractors' requirements, such as credit
limit and payment conditions, can be integrated simply into the model
formulation for practical use. Lastly, a bridge example is adopted, with
various constraints such as duration limitation, for scenario analysis.
Consequently, the two-stage optimization process optimizes project profit,
and also maximizes work continuity for linear scheduling problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1023-1037
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Two-stage profit optimization, linear scheduling problems, cash flow, constraint programming,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903233111
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Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Title: Value management practice in South Africa: the built environment professions compared
Abstract:
Using an online survey, value management practice by construction
professionals in South Africa is investigated. Opinions were sought from
architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, and project and construction
managers. An objective is to test the UK-based assertion of Kelly et al.
(2004) that VM is an established service with commonly understood tools,
techniques and styles. While awareness of VM is reasonably prevalent among
the professions, it is far less so among architects. Actual practice of VM
is considerably less extensive, with the architects reporting the lowest
level of usage. Much higher levels of awareness and practice could have
been expected. Knowledge of VM techniques appears dated, and membership of
VM associations is rare. Usage of VM is invariably founded on a
cost-minimization driver. Little attempt is made to benchmark VM
activities against international standards nor is a standard methodology
employed. Value management is not generally used to facilitate the client
briefing process. The findings are important given the increasing
globalization of construction services, especially the growth of
international ties between built environment professionals. It is
recommended that the professional associations that promote the activities
of the professions in SA should organize suitable refresher skills and
training opportunities in VM.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1039-1057
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Value management, built environment professionals, quantity surveyors, engineers, project and construction managers, architects, professional practice, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903280435
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Author-Name: David James Bryde
Author-X-Name-First: David James
Author-X-Name-Last: Bryde
Author-Name: Jurgen Marc Volm
Author-X-Name-First: Jurgen Marc
Author-X-Name-Last: Volm
Title: Perceptions of owners in German construction projects: congruence with project risk theory
Abstract:
The construction industry is a major user of formal project risk
management practices, yet risk is often dealt with inadequately, which is
a contributory factor to poor performance. Conceptual developments propose
a holistic view of risk incorporating threats and opportunities and the
management of uncertainty. To optimize a risk management process there
needs to be a reflection of this holistic view in management practice. A
key project participant is the owner and understanding the perceptions of
project risk of construction owners is an important step in assessing the
degree to which practices reflect theory. Semi-structured interviews were
conducted with 10 practitioners in German construction owner organizations
to explore their perceptions of project risk. The results showed no common
definition of project risk and a general belief that risk equated to
threat. Some owners did manage opportunities and saw a link between
threats and opportunities, yet this practice seemed more the result of
experience than an awareness that it was an integral part of a theoretical
risk management framework. Most owners perceived risk to encompass
uncertainty and the sources of uncertainty perceived as most important
were those linked to a longer timescale, such as the ability to let out
buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1059-1071
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Project management, risk management, owner, interview, Germany, risk perceptions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222403
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chung-Li Tseng
Author-X-Name-First: Chung-Li
Author-X-Name-Last: Tseng
Author-Name: Tong Zhao
Author-X-Name-First: Tong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhao
Author-Name: Chung Fu
Author-X-Name-First: Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Fu
Title: Contingency estimation using a real options approach
Abstract:
In construction projects, contingency is the budget which is made
available to cope with uncertainties that would incur schedule and cost
overruns. Contingency estimation requires considering project cost,
schedule and technology variability. The effect of dynamic project
management of the decision maker should also be taken into account.
Accordingly a real options approach for estimating contingency from the
owner's point of view is presented. This approach not only explicitly
recognizes the uncertainty in the life cycle of a construction project,
but also incorporates a dynamic project management mechanism into
contingency estimation. The contingency is valued by minimizing the
expected project cost via a multi-stage stochastic model that accounts for
the variability of project cost and schedule and the exercise of dynamic
project crashing. The numerical results indicate that the value of the
decision maker's dynamic project management makes up an important portion
of the contingency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1073-1087
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Contingency, estimating, project management, real options, stochastic modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222411
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1073-1087
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Author-Name: Marco Falagario
Author-X-Name-First: Marco
Author-X-Name-Last: Falagario
Title: The changing input structure of the US construction industry: a longitudinal analysis
Abstract:
Eleven input-output tables are used for analysing the technological
changes of the US construction industry from 1947 to 2002. Over the years,
the industry has been characterized by a significant input shift that
reflects the evolution of the USA towards services and away from a
manufacturing-based economy. This evolution is also reflected in the 1997
adoption of a new classification system of the US industries by the Bureau
of Economic Analysis (BEA). Changes are also found in analysing the direct
requirements of two key sectors of the industry, residential and highway
construction, during the 1967-1997 period. New materials and labour-saving
machinery have been some of the major drivers in the changing input
structure of the two considered sectors. The study demonstrates the
importance of using very long series of data and input-output tables with
more than 400 industries for the further understanding of the secular
changes of the construction industry and its constituent sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1089-1098
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: US construction, input-output analysis, direct inputs, residential construction, highway construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903280443
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1089-1098
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Title: Relational partnerships: the importance of communication, trust and confidence and joint risk management in achieving project success
Abstract:
The advantages of relational partnerships as an alternative project
delivery mechanism to the traditional methods have yet to be realized by
the wider construction industry. In relational partnerships, all parties
work together as a cohesive team to achieve an agreed outcome. However, an
accurate estimation of the underlying factors associated with the
relationships of these parties and assessment of their impacts on
partnering success are difficult to achieve. By identifying three major
factors, communication, trust and confidence and joint risk management,
this research unfolded the relational links between these factors and
analysed the impacts in the context of the relational partnering success.
Based on a questionnaire survey and the structural equation modelling
technique, results identified communication as the single most influencing
factor impacting on relational partnering success. While trust and
confidence were found to be mutually inclusive for effective
communication, it was found to have direct influence on developing
capability for joint risk management within the partnering organizations.
This finding diverges from the widely accepted view across the Australian
construction industry that partnering is built on trust and confidence
only and any risks associated in projects are best dealt with by means of
joint responsibility without any problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1099-1109
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Relational partnerships, structural modelling equation, project success, procurement methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903286564
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1099-1109
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susan McGrath-Champ
Author-X-Name-First: Susan
Author-X-Name-Last: McGrath-Champ
Author-Name: Stuart Rosewarne
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosewarne
Title: Organizational change in Australian building and construction: rethinking a unilinear 'leaning' discourse
Abstract:
Over the past few decades there has been extensive reorganization of the
construction industry in many developed countries including removal of
head contractor companies from direct operational construction, elongation
of the subcontracting chain, rising self-employment, casualization of work
and reduced investment in training. These trends are the subject of a
prescriptive, industry literature directed at industry 'improvement' and
an important British-based critique of the underlying drivers of
'leanness' and organizational 're-engineering'. Drawing primarily upon
interviews with organizations across the breadth of the industry, this
paper provides evidence concerning such key changes in the Australian
context, revealing both 'leaning'/'re-engineering' tendencies but also
counter-tendencies necessitated by the goal of sustaining enduring
enterprise and a viable labour force. A more reflexive approach by major
companies to competitive pressures and risk shifting is revealed. Further,
this evidence provides grounds for challenging the re-engineering/lean
construction critique which is discerned as succumbing to the unitarist
and unilinear discourse which it seeks to challenge.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1111-1128
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Business process re-engineering, lean production, Australia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903236361
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1111-1128
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nhat Hong Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Nhat Hong
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Johnny Kwok Wai Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny Kwok Wai
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Stakeholder impact analysis of infrastructure project management in developing countries: a study of perception of project managers in state-owned engineering firms in Vietnam
Abstract:
Construction projects can involve a diverse range of stakeholders and the
success of the project depends very much on fulfilling their needs and
expectations. It is important, therefore, to identify and recognize
project stakeholders and develop a rigorous stakeholder management
process. However, limited research has investigated the impact of
stakeholders on construction projects in developing countries. A
stakeholder impact analysis (SIA), based on an approach developed by
Olander (2007), was adopted to investigate the stakeholders' impact on
state-owned civil engineering projects in Vietnam. This involved the
analysis of a questionnaire survey of 57 project managers to determine the
relative importance of different stakeholders. The results show the client
to have the highest level of impact on the projects, followed by project
managers and the senior management of state-owned engineering firms. The
SIA also provides suggestions to project managers in developing and
evaluating the stakeholder management process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1129-1140
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Project management, project success, project stakeholders, infrastructure projects, Vietnam,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903280468
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1129-1140
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bo Xia
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Xia
Author-Name: Albert Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: John Yeung
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeung
Title: Identification of key competences of design-builders in the construction market of the People's Republic of China (PRC)
Abstract:
Design-builders play a vital role in the success of DB projects. In the
construction market of the People's Republic of China, most of the
design-builders, however, lack adequate competences to conduct the DB
projects successfully. The objective of this study is, therefore, to
identify the key competences that design-builders should possess to not
only ensure the success of DB projects but also acquire the competitive
advantages in the DB market. Five semi-structured face-to-face interviews
and two rounds of Delphi questionnaire survey were conducted to identify
the key competences of design-builders. Rankings have been assigned to
these key competences on the basis of their relative importance. Six
ranked key competences of design-builders have been identified, namely:
(1) experience with similar DB projects; (2) capability of corporate
management; (3) combination of building techniques and design expertise;
(4) financial capability for DB projects; (5) enterprise qualification and
scale; and (6) credit records and reputation in the industry. The
design-builders can make use of the research findings as guidelines to
improve their DB competence. These research findings will also be useful
to clients during the selection of design-builders.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1141-1152
Issue: 11
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Design and build, procurement, competitive advantages, competence, Delphi method, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903280476
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903280476
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:11:p:1141-1152
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jiayuan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Jiayuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Jian Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Zegao Liao
Author-X-Name-First: Zegao
Author-X-Name-Last: Liao
Author-Name: Pei Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Pei
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Title: Identification of key liability risks of supervision engineers in China
Abstract:
Until the present, the supervision engineer's liability risks in China
have mostly been analysed by means of a qualitative approach by which it
is difficult to identify the key liability risks of the Chinese
supervision profession. Two questionnaire surveys were conducted to find
out the supervision liability risks. The causes of those risks were
analysed by reference to Chinese laws, regulations and questionnaire
survey results. The score of the relative importance was creatively used
to quantify the liability risks. Eleven key liability risks with higher
scores of relative importance were identified. The risks have important
influences on project quality, safety production and supervision
profession development. The research results provide valuable information
not only to government departments, professional associations, Chinese
supervision engineers and supervision firms, but also to the foreign
companies that offer services in China. The quantitative research method
can be employed for other questionnaire surveys such as construction
project quality and safety accidents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1157-1173
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Liability risks, risk management, supervision, supervision engineer,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222395
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903222395
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1157-1173
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Ivan Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Price discovery of property markets in Shenzhen and Hong Kong
Abstract:
Hong Kong and Shenzhen, while being interrelated in many aspects, have
encountered different types of demand shocks throughout the past decade.
This is likely due to disparities in market conditions and degrees of
government regulations. In the light of such differences in property price
trends, this research first investigates the relationships between housing
prices and market fundamentals for both cities; and then it explores
whether a housing price bubble existed for them in 2006. The results
indicate that housing prices seem to have interacted abnormally with
market fundamentals in recent years, especially for Shenzhen. In addition,
while Shenzhen's housing prices are mainly explained by previous housing
prices and personal income, most economic indicators explain Hong Kong's
housing prices well. With regard to price bubbles, a puny bubble which
amounts to as much as 4.5% of the housing price was formed in Shenzhen in
2006. In the meantime, the housing price bubble for Hong Kong had been
diminished. Though currently not at dangerous levels, housing price
bubbles should be taken with caution especially in today's China,
characterized by overinvestment and rapid policy changes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1175-1196
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Price, Granger causality, generalized impulse response, property market, variance decomposition,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903365640
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903365640
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1175-1196
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kunhui Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhui
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Weiyan Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Weiyan
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Title: Concentration in the international construction market
Abstract:
With the involvement of an increasing number of contractors in the
international construction market, venturing overseas has been fraught
with fierce competition and considerable uncertainties. This underscores
the importance of examining the extent to which the intensity of
competition (IoC) for international construction business is moderate.
Concentration is a conventional IoC measure. By synthesizing four major
concentration methods including concentration ratio, entropy, Gini
coefficient and the Herfindahl index, a new model for measuring moderate
IoC is thus proposed. Using the 28 years ENR-based data of the top 225
international contractors (TIC 225) in the proposed model, the IoC for
international construction business is found to be moderate, if the
magnitude of the market shares occupied by the top four international
contractors is 0.2735. The finding revises a popular view that
international construction competition has been intensifying only since
2002. It is implied that the proposed model favours a better understanding
of competition characteristics in the international construction market
and provides new insights into the theories about concentration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1197-1207
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: International construction market, business concentration, intensity of competition, moderate competition,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222429
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903222429
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1197-1207
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hasan Haroglu
Author-X-Name-First: Hasan
Author-X-Name-Last: Haroglu
Author-Name: Jacqueline Glass
Author-X-Name-First: Jacqueline
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Author-Name: Tony Thorpe
Author-X-Name-First: Tony
Author-X-Name-Last: Thorpe
Title: A study of professional perspectives on structural frame selection
Abstract:
The choice of an appropriate structural frame can contribute to effective
short- and long-term performance, and enhance client satisfaction but
limited research indicates that the issues taken into account during
structural frame selection are not very well understood. With this in
mind, a major research programme, including interviews and an industry
survey, examined the attitudes of project managers, cost consultants and
construction clients in analysing the issues they typically consider when
choosing the structural frame for a building, and to provide insights
about how such decisions are made in practice. Ten key issues were
identified as being the most important affecting structural frame
selection, but the extent to which different parties considered these and
at what stage was found to vary. Also, the variations, between what these
parties themselves think of the issues and what others perceive their
attitudes to be, were examined. In particular, the results showed that
what clients perceive differs considerably from how clients' views are
perceived by others. For instance, according to cost consultants and
project managers, their clients' preference to regularly select a
'preferred' frame type or material is a far more widespread tendency than
clients themselves actually acknowledged.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1209-1217
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Decision making, structural frame,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903233129
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903233129
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1209-1217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samuel Laryea
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Laryea
Title: Subcontract and supply enquiries in the tender process of contractors
Abstract:
In the tender process, contractors often rely on subcontract and supply
enquiries to calculate their bid prices. However, this integral part of
the bidding process is not empirically articulated in the literature. Over
30 published materials on the tendering process of contractors that talk
about enquiries were reviewed and found to be based mainly on experiential
knowledge rather than systematic evidence. The empirical research here
helps to describe the process of enquiries precisely, improve it in
practice, and have some basis to support it in theory. Using a live
participant observation case study approach, the whole tender process was
shadowed in the offices of two of the top 20 UK civil engineering
construction firms. This helped to investigate 15 research questions on
how contractors enquire and obtain prices from subcontractors and
suppliers. Forty-three subcontract enquiries and 18 supply enquiries were
made across two different projects with average value of £7m. An
average of 15 subcontract packages and seven supply packages was involved.
Thus, two or three subcontractors or suppliers were invited to bid in each
package. All enquiries were formulated by the estimator, with occasional
involvement of three other personnel. Most subcontract prices were
received in an average of 14 working days; and supply prices took five
days. The findings show 10 main activities involved in processing
enquiries and their durations, as well as wasteful practices associated
with enquiries. Contractors should limit their enquiry invitations to a
maximum of three per package, and optimize the waiting time for quotations
in order to improve cost efficiency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1219-1230
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Case study, enquiries, subcontractors, suppliers, UK,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903394533
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903394533
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1219-1230
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Toong Khuan Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Toong Khuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Measuring performance of the Malaysian construction industry
Abstract:
A systematic measurement framework for the Malaysian construction
industry is essential to enable the industry to monitor its progress
towards achieving the goals set out in the Construction Industry Master
Plan 2006-15. The objectives were to develop a comprehensive set of
performance measures for the construction industry, to compute these
measures for the 2006 base year and to benchmark the available data. The
Balanced Scorecard approach was used to examine the links between the
critical success factors and strategic thrusts defined in the master plan
to ensure that these provide a balanced view of the industry's competitive
standing. The resulting strategy map revealed that the eight critical
success factors and seven strategic thrusts of the master plan generally
cover all four Balanced Scorecard perspectives with a strong emphasis on
learning and growth. Thirty-four performance measures were adapted from
other initiatives, modified to suit local practices, or were created
specifically to measure the outcomes of the strategic thrusts. Performance
measures were computed for the 2006 base year. A comparative analysis of
the available data was conducted to determine tentative targets for these
measures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1231-1244
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Benchmarking, performance evaluation, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903233137
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903233137
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1231-1244
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Title: Analysis of pre-qualification criteria in contractor selection and their impacts on project success
Abstract:
While construction industry practices are reasonably well developed,
construction projects still witness widespread failures of many
contractors due to varied reasons such as financial problems, poor
management, over-commitment and or conflicts and disputes associated with
construction activities. Pre-qualification of contractors is a common
practice across projects, yet the investigation on the ability of the
selected contractors in successful delivery of projects is not widespread.
In an attempt to understand these pre-emptive qualification criteria and
their links in contractors' performance in projects, a total of 43
influencing technical attributes were identified through a systematic
research approach. The relative significance and impacts of the attributes
have been determined based on a structured questionnaire survey in
selected construction projects. By performing the factor analysis, a total
of seven factors significant to contractors' performance were extracted,
namely (1) soundness of business and workforce; (2) planning and control;
(3) quality management; (4) past performance; (5) risk management; (6)
organizational capability; and (7) commitment and dedication. Multiple
linear regression models reveal that technical expertise, past success,
time in business, work methods and working capital significantly impact on
contractors' performance across time, cost and quality success. With a
clear understanding of a contractor's performance, these findings could
potentially contribute to development of a company's procedures or enhance
existing knowledge in relation to the pre-qualification practices in
contractor selection in projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1245-1263
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
Keywords: Pre-qualification, contractor selection, project performance, factor analysis, regression modelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903394541
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903394541
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1245-1263
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick Zou
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Zou
Title: Construction Supply Chain Management Handbook
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1265-1266
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222361
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903222361
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1265-1266
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Said Boukendour
Author-X-Name-First: Said
Author-X-Name-Last: Boukendour
Title: Construction Delays: Extensions of Time and Prolongation Claims
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1266-1267
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903222379
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903222379
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1266-1267
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Danny Myers
Author-X-Name-First: Danny
Author-X-Name-Last: Myers
Title: Economics for the Modern Built Environment
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1267-1269
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903233103
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903233103
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1267-1269
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Chinowsky
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinowsky
Title: Construction Planning, Programming and Control
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1269-1270
Issue: 12
Volume: 27
Year: 2009
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903365624
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903365624
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:27:y:2009:i:12:p:1269-1270
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lai Kit Chow
Author-X-Name-First: Lai Kit
Author-X-Name-Last: Chow
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Delineating the performance standards of engineering consultants at design stage
Abstract:
Many clients nowadays scrutinize consultants' performance carefully
before determining which company should be awarded a consultancy
assignment. Despite that, evaluating the performance of an engineering
consultant is seldom conducted in a systematic manner, as every assessor
has his/her own value judgment to distinguish what is a 'good' or 'bad'
performance. In order to reduce the divergence between different assessors
when the evaluation is carried out, it would be desirable to define the
standards of each indicator used for describing the performance of an
engineering consultant in an objective manner. In this research, a survey
is conducted to unveil the standards for various performance levels which
correspond to a list of indicators used for gauging engineering
consultants' performance at the design stage. A modified horizontal
approach is employed to analyse the data, and the results indicate that
engineering consultants should fulfil greater than 90% in most of the
aspects relevant to the design stage to qualify for an 'excellent'
performance rating. By referring to the expected performance standards,
clients can identify which quantitative indicators at the design stage
should deserve much greater attention so as to minimize the chance of
commissioning an incapable engineering consultant.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-11
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Consultant performance, performance evaluation, fuzzy membership functions,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903450053
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903450053
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:3-11
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mattias Jacobsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mattias
Author-X-Name-Last: Jacobsson
Author-Name: Henrik Linderoth
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Linderoth
Title: The influence of contextual elements, actors' frames of reference, and technology on the adoption and use of ICT in construction projects: a Swedish case study
Abstract:
In contemporary research on construction-related ICT (information
communication technologies), little distinction is made between the use of
ICT in permanent line organizations and its use in temporary organizations
(for example, in building and construction projects). This paper makes
that distinction. The aim is to understand how the interplay among
contextual elements, actors' frames of reference, and the ICT itself,
influences the adoption and use of ICT in a building and construction
project. This will be done through a description and analysis of a case
study of ICT use in a major Swedish construction company. It is concluded
that the well-defined duration of the temporary organization (the
construction project) stands in sharp contrast to the generally indefinite
duration of ICT-mediated change processes. However, by analysing the ICT
application to be implemented, it can be revealed whether it can be 'ready
packed' for, or delimited to, certain processes in order to achieve
immediate benefits. When implementing more encompassing ICT applications,
the challenge for the company is to find alternative ways of
implementation in the project-based organization and of creating
alternative spaces for innovation and renewal where new ICT can be tested
and experimented with.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 13-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Organizational change, temporary organizations, project-based organizations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903406154
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903406154
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:13-23
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Cost-effectiveness of construction safety programme elements
Abstract:
Every year the construction industry accounts for a disproportionate
injury rate when compared to the all-industry average. In recent years,
incident rates have declined as a result of improvements in safety
management. While there is a great deal of knowledge regarding the safety
management strategies of highly effective construction firms, little is
known about the cost-effectiveness of these strategies. Interviews with 26
representatives of construction firms headquartered in the US were
undertaken to quantify the cost of implementing common safety programme
elements by: (1) quantifying cost for each element per US$1 million of
project scope; and (2) determining the distribution of safety funding to
each element. Using these cost data and effectiveness ratings from
previous research, the cost-effectiveness of 13 safety programme elements
was quantified. The results indicate that the most cost-effective safety
programme elements are subcontractor selection and management and upper
management support and commitment. Alternatively, the least cost-effective
elements are the employment of a full-time safety manager and
record-keeping. The information presented in this paper may be used by
practitioners to direct resource investments, strategically select a
subset of safety programme elements when resources are limited, and to
justify additional resource investment in accident prevention.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-34
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Safety, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460706
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:25-34
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jati Utomo Dwi Hatmoko
Author-X-Name-First: Jati Utomo Dwi
Author-X-Name-Last: Hatmoko
Author-Name: Stephen Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Title: Simulating the impact of supply chain management practice on the performance of medium-sized building projects
Abstract:
Construction supply chains encompass the flows of materials, labour,
information, plant, equipment and temporary works that originate from a
variety of different parties. The impact of various supply chain
management practices on project performance has been measured, through a
combination of a survey and the development of simulation models.
Preliminary investigations were carried out by visiting two medium-sized
building projects regularly over a period of six months to gain an
understanding of the ways in which delays on supply chains impact on
project performance. This was followed by the main survey which was
designed to collect data required for developing the simulation models.
These models were developed using Pertmaster Risk Expert™ software
and incorporated supply chain delays applied to a CPM network of a typical
medium-sized building project of 300 days' duration. The results of the
simulation showed that the project's median delay was 67 days (22% of the
project duration). The use of subcontractors in the project reduced this
delay by approximately 45%. It was also learned that delays in material
flow caused the biggest impact on the project, followed by labour flow,
information flow and 'plant, equipment and temporary work' flow. These
findings are an important measure of how much supply chain delays impact
on project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-49
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Supply chain management, supply chain delays, project performance, simulation, risk,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903365632
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903365632
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:35-49
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdul-Rashid Abdul-Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul-Rashid
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Aziz
Author-Name: Sing Sing Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Sing Sing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Exploring the internationalization of Malaysian contractors: the international entrepreneurship dimension
Abstract:
The internationalization of construction companies is a subject of
enduring interest among construction management scholars. The
internationalization pattern of Malaysian contractors was explored, this
time mainly using the international entrepreneurship body of literature as
the theoretical basis. In doing so, the focus of the internationalization
process was on the entrepreneurs or top management. Data were collected
with a postal questionnaire survey and follow-up semi-structured
interviews. The findings underscore the importance of the entrepreneurs'
decision in the surveyed firms' internationalization trajectory. Top
management's perception of how their companies might benefit from
internationalization was the highest ranked foreign market entry
consideration. Top managements' initial and subsequent motivation also
fashioned their companies' degree of internationalization and tactics for
securing contracts. The characteristics of the entrepreneurs which drove
their companies to internationalize were also captured. The international
entrepreneurship domain continues to expand into previously uncharted
areas. As such there is potential to uncover even more interesting
findings from future research endeavours on international contractors
using the international entrepreneurship approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 51-61
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Contracting, internationalization, entrepreneurship, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460680
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460680
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:51-61
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Donald Jensen
Author-X-Name-First: Donald
Author-X-Name-Last: Jensen
Title: A longitudinal study of a Type I differing conditions claim: investigating the contractor's failure to meet the reasonable prudent standard
Abstract:
The United States government's differing conditions clause poses
extensive legal and financial risk. This contract clause addresses Type I
and Type II unforeseen conditions. A Type I condition occurs when a latent
physical condition materially differs from that condition indicated in the
bidding documents. A Type II condition exists when an unknown physical
condition has an unusual nature different from that condition generally
encountered and naturally inhering in the contract work. The occurrence of
either provides a contractor with the contractual right to file a claim
for equitable contract adjustment. A contractor desiring to prevail,
regarding a Type I claim, must properly comply with the Weeks Dredging
proof elements. Chi-square statistical results, for 143 Type I differing
conditions claims, provide empirical evidence that 79% of the contractors
receive a disfavourable court award when challenging the United States
government. Forty-four per cent of the reported cases cite the Weeks
Dredging proof element, contractor did not act as a reasonably prudent
contractor, as a basis for denying a contractor's claim for equitable
adjustment. This standard measures whether a reasonable contractor did or
did not review and properly document all bidding documents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 63-74
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Bidding, contract claims, government contracts, site conditions, Type I claim,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903406162
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903406162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:63-74
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hong Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Hong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Multi-objective particle swarm optimization for construction time-cost tradeoff problems
Abstract:
Reduction in construction project duration is generally linked to
additional cost due to more expensive resources required. Hence tradeoff
between time and cost is crucial to the efficiency of a construction
project. The time-cost tradeoff (TCT) issue has been studied through
various multi-objective optimization methodologies to determine an optimal
set of activity methods with the objectives of minimizing project duration
and total cost. A multi-objective particle swarm optimization that adopts
a combined scheme for determining the global best of each particle is
presented for solving the TCT problem. The candidate TCT solutions in
terms of a set of construction methods for activities are represented
through the multidimensional particles. The framework of the combined
scheme-based multi-objective particle swarm optimization (CSMOPSO) is
developed. Computational analyses are conducted to investigate the
performance of the CSMOPSO, including comparison with other methods. This
study is expected to provide an alternative solving methodology for the
TCT problem and help contractors or engineers plan construction methods
with optimal time-cost tradeoff.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 75-88
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Time-cost tradeoff, multi-objective optimization, particle swarm optimization (PSO), construction methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903406170
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903406170
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:75-88
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Li
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Zigrid Napier
Author-X-Name-First: Zigrid
Author-X-Name-Last: Napier
Title: The accuracy of risk-based cost estimation for water infrastructure projects: preliminary evidence from Australian projects
Abstract:
Infrastructure projects are still being plagued by cost overruns, delays
and revenue shortfalls despite decades of practice and research.
Risk-based estimating (RBE) is growing in popularity and has the potential
to overcome the two main cost overrun factors—optimistic bias and
strategic misrepresentation. Yet, little is known about the accuracy of
RBE and its performance drivers. A comparison of water projects using RBE
with a sample of construction projects using the conventional estimating
approach shows that the projects estimated using RBE have better
estimation accuracy than those estimated using more conventional
approaches. In addition, the projects using RBE appear more likely to be
under-budget while the ones using the conventional approach appear more
likely to be over-budget. Further, through interviews and observations of
the RBE process, three main performance drivers for the RBE method were
identified to include outside view/collective experience, attention
focusing and probabilistic, bottom-up modelling.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 89-100
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost estimating, forecasting, accuracy, risk-based estimating, fixed contingency approach,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903431525
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903431525
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:89-100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henry Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Henry
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Title: Materials and Skills for Historic Building Conservation
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 101-102
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460649
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460649
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:101-102
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wai Kiong Chong
Author-X-Name-First: Wai Kiong
Author-X-Name-Last: Chong
Title: The Green Guide to Specification, 4th edn
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 102-103
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460656
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460656
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:102-103
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sandra Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Sandra
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Title: Managing Diversity and Equality in Construction
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 103-105
Issue: 1
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460664
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460664
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:1:p:103-105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kunhui Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhui
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Liyin Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Liyin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Yongtao Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Yongtao
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Response strategies to the competition in the Chinese construction market
Abstract:
The Chinese construction market is composed of 31 local markets which
differ from each other in various aspects such as competition intensity.
Contractors moving from one market to another need to consider the
competition strategies and make due response to new competition situation
in order to survive. Nevertheless, the research into response strategies
to competition situations has been limited. Effective response strategies
can assist contractors to respond to different competition environments.
Based on the data collected from major cities in China, five typical
competition situations are identified and six strategies are found
effective to guide contractors' response to various competition
situations. For instance, a closer cooperation between main contractors
helps contractors respond effectively where safety accidents occur
frequently in the market. The research findings present new perspectives
of developing competitive strategies in the Chinese construction market
and provide recommendations for adopting a conduct-performance approach
for examining response strategies in other construction markets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 115-124
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Competition, response strategies, market performance indicators, coefficient analysis, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903473774
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903473774
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:115-124
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shu-Ling Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: Career journeys and turning points of senior female managers in small construction firms
Abstract:
There is under-representation of senior female managers within small
construction firms in the United Kingdom. The position is denying the
sector a valuable pool of labour to address acute knowledge and skill
shortages. Grounded theory on the career progression of senior female
managers in these firms is developed from biographical interviews. First,
a turning point model which distinguishes the interplay between human
agency and work/home structure is given. Second, four career development
phases are identified. The career journeys are characterized by ad hoc
decisions and opportunities which were not influenced by external policies
aimed at improving the representation of women in construction. Third, the
'hidden', but potentially significant, contribution of women-owned small
construction firms is noted. The key challenge for policy and practice is
to balance these external approaches with recognition of the 'inside out'
reality of the 'lived experiences' of female managers. To progress this
agenda there is a need for: appropriate longitudinal statistical data to
quantify the scale of senior female managers and owners of small
construction firms over time; and, social construction and gendered
organizational analysis research to develop a general discourse on gender
difference with these firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 125-139
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Career development, senior female managers, small construction firms, women company owners,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903280450
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903280450
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:125-139
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexis Anne McGuffin
Author-X-Name-First: Alexis Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: McGuffin
Author-Name: Esther Obonyo
Author-X-Name-First: Esther
Author-X-Name-Last: Obonyo
Title: Enhancing performance: a case study of the effects of employee coaching in construction practice
Abstract:
The contemporary practice of coaching in the business world entails
engaging accredited professionals to enhance the performance of employees.
A key problem impeding the widespread adoption of coaching is the lack of
empirical research supporting the effectiveness of implemented programmes
and the returns on investment. The benefits of coaching are assessed from
the perspective of employees. Data were collected through a case study of
an employee coaching programme within a large, multinational construction
company. The programme had significantly enhanced the employees' personal
and professional growth and development. It had also increased their
motivation levels and loyalty to the company.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 141-149
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Employee coaching, enhancing performance, motivation, case study, human factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460672
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460672
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:141-149
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulsalam Al-Sudairi
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulsalam
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Sudairi
Author-Name: Mohammed Al-Motairi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Motairi
Title: Multi objective land use allocation model using priority-based goal programming technique
Abstract:
A multi-objective goal programming model was used to optimize land use
allocation for housing projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The main
goal of this model is twofold. It is hoped, on the one hand, that it would
reduce the effort and time in planning for such projects, as well as
guarantee the element of accuracy on the other. The model utilized the
planning standards and requirements set by the Ministry of Municipalities
and Rural Affaires (MOMRA) in allocating land uses of various housing
projects. Based on the results of the study, certain planning constraints
were proved to be more sensitive than others as planners need to take into
account essential factors such as population density and provision of
private and semi-public facilities. In addition, linear goal programming
models accompanied by prioritization usually fit the nature of land use
allocation problems in housing projects. The result shows that a high
level of optimization has been achieved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 151-161
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: MOMRA, goal programming, land use, allocation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903460698
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903460698
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:151-161
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Konstantinos Anagnostopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Konstantinos
Author-X-Name-Last: Anagnostopoulos
Author-Name: Georgios Koulinas
Author-X-Name-First: Georgios
Author-X-Name-Last: Koulinas
Title: A simulated annealing hyperheuristic for construction resource levelling
Abstract:
Resource levelling techniques aim to minimize the fluctuation from one
time period to another in resource usage. Except for small-sized problems,
though, computational optimization procedures are inefficient when solving
construction resource levelling problems. Consequently, heuristic and
metaheuristic approaches are used to get an acceptable, but not
necessarily optimal, solution. A simulated annealing hyperheuristic to
generate better-levelled resource profiles is proposed. Unlike traditional
heuristic algorithms, a hyperheuristic operates in the 'low level'
heuristics domain rather than in the solutions domain. A low level
heuristic, on the other hand, works in the current solution neighbourhood.
The algorithm has been programmed within a commercial project management
software system to improve its performance. The low level heuristics
operate on the priority levels that the software uses for resource
levelling. An illustrative example and the computational analysis
demonstrate the potential of the procedure in solving complex scheduling
problems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 163-175
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Hyperheuristic, metaheuristics, priorities, resource levelling, simulated annealing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903369907
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903369907
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:163-175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Author-Name: Kevin Dunn
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Dunn
Author-Name: Umut Ozguc
Author-X-Name-First: Umut
Author-X-Name-Last: Ozguc
Title: Operatives' experiences of cultural diversity on Australian construction sites
Abstract:
Construction sites are among Australia's most culturally diverse
workplaces. A survey of 1155 construction operatives on Australian
construction sites investigated, for the first time, the extent of this
diversity and how it is experienced by workers. Results show that while
cultural diversity presents organizational challenges by segregating the
workforce, operatives' cultural groups also perform positive functions
such as maintaining positive bonds among group members and providing group
support and safe havens. While there broadly appears to be equality of
opportunity for all cultural groups, there is significant evidence of
differential treatment for some groups, particularly in relation to
accessing higher paying jobs, offensive graffiti and racist joke telling.
Language barriers are one of the major challenges affecting work and
social relations between different cultural groups and there is evidence
that this has a detrimental impact upon safety.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 177-188
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Diversity, culture, immigrants, safety, racism, discrimination,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903450087
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903450087
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:177-188
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Morgan Tuuli
Author-X-Name-First: Martin Morgan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuuli
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Tas Yong Koh
Author-X-Name-First: Tas Yong
Author-X-Name-Last: Koh
Title: Dynamics of control in construction project teams
Abstract:
Control is pervasive in construction project environments. The management
of projects through various planning and control tools has therefore been
described essentially as rebureaucratization which increases control over
individuals, teams and organizations through ideologies of efficiency and
performativity. Yet certain characteristics of the project setting make it
an ideal climate for the empowerment of individuals and teams. The
manifestations of control in five construction project management teams
involved in two ongoing construction projects in Hong Kong are examined.
The interpretive and exploratory focus of the study favoured the use of a
qualitative research design and the case study approach in particular.
Control is viewed as all devices and systems employed to ensure that acts,
behaviours, outcomes and decisions of individuals, teams and organizations
are consistent with meeting organizational or project goals, objectives
and strategies. The findings indicate that a portfolio of control modes is
implemented in project teams comprising both formal (i.e. behaviour- and
outcome-based) and informal (i.e. clan- and self-based) control mechanisms
which are not necessarily incompatible. While formal control remains the
primary control mode, a portfolio of control appears necessary to augment
the inadequacies of formal control due to the evolving nature of the
project environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 189-202
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Empowerment, formal control, Hong Kong, informal control, portfolio of control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903365657
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903365657
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:189-202
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Onder Okmen
Author-X-Name-First: Onder
Author-X-Name-Last: Okmen
Author-Name: Ahmet Oztas
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmet
Author-X-Name-Last: Oztas
Title: Construction cost analysis under uncertainty with correlated cost risk analysis model
Abstract:
Cost estimation is an important task in construction projects. Since
various risk-factors affect the construction costs, the actual costs
generally deviate from the estimated costs in a favourable or an adverse
direction. Therefore, not only estimation of the costs but also an
analysis of the uncertainty of the estimated costs is required. This
requirement gains more importance in projects constrained by money as the
main driver. The traditional cost estimation, i.e. predicting the
construction costs and simply calculating the total, is deterministic and
insufficient. This approach neglects the uncertainty and the correlation
effects. A new simulation-based model—the correlated cost risk
analysis model (CCRAM)—is proposed to analyse the construction
costs under uncertainty when the costs and risk-factors are correlated.
CCRAM captures the correlation between the costs and risk-factors
indirectly and qualitatively. The efficiency and effectiveness of the
model is evaluated through an application of CCRAM and Monte Carlo
simulation (MCS) based method using the same hypothetical data. The
findings show that CCRAM operates well and produces more consistent
results compatible with the theoretical expectancies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 203-212
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost modelling, uncertainty, risk management, risk analysis, correlation, simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903468923
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903468923
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:203-212
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Construction Safety Management
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 213-214
Issue: 2
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903468915
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903468915
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:2:p:213-214
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joe Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Joe
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Eddie Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: Construction project risks: further considerations for constructors' pricing in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-215
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003698161
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003698161
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:215-215
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Giuseppe Pellegrini-Masini
Author-X-Name-First: Giuseppe
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellegrini-Masini
Author-Name: Graeme Bowles
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowles
Author-Name: Andrew Peacock
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Peacock
Author-Name: Marcus Ahadzi
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahadzi
Author-Name: Phillip Banfill
Author-X-Name-First: Phillip
Author-X-Name-Last: Banfill
Title: Whole life costing of domestic energy demand reduction technologies: householder perspectives
Abstract:
A recent, major UK research project investigated technical and social
aspects of reducing the CO2 emissions of UK domestic housing by 50% by the
year 2030. As 80% of the UK housing stock that will be present in 2030 has
already been built, this study aimed to research the whole life costs of
three sets of energy demand reduction technologies for existing housing,
over a 25-year period, suitable to deliver significant CO2 emissions
reduction up to 50%. Demand side technological interventions in the form
of fabric upgrades and ventilation systems are identified. Whole life
cycle analysis of interventions carried out on two housing variants
prominent in the domestic stock under different energy price scenarios is
carried out using discounted cash flow and compared with the do-nothing
option. The results show that, despite reducing annual energy bills, there
is no clear financial case even over a 25-year horizon for householders to
invest in the proposed interventions that contribute to CO2 emission
reduction targets. When discussed with respect to household income and
consumption preferences, the results reveal the need for new policy
approaches to overcome the financial and non-financial hurdles for a mass
uptake of energy efficient technologies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 217-229
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Energy consumption, energy efficiency, whole life costing, housing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903480027
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903480027
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:217-229
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carol Jewell
Author-X-Name-First: Carol
Author-X-Name-Last: Jewell
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Caner Anac
Author-X-Name-First: Caner
Author-X-Name-Last: Anac
Title: Understanding UK construction professional services exports: definitions and characteristics
Abstract:
Services are very important to the UK balance of trade; a surplus has
been recorded for trade in services every year since 1966. Construction
professional services exports (CPS), which cover architecture, engineering
and surveying (AES), have also increased, contributing over £3bn to
the UK trade balance in 2007. The changing environment of construction
professional services exports complicates the validity of the
characteristics and definitions of services as described in the research
literature and official export statistics. Through semi-structured
interviews undertaken with large consulting engineers and a roundtable
discussion with industry and government representatives, the research
found that the impact of globalization and the changes in the construction
business environment, such as increasing foreign ownership and changing
forms of procurement, are not fully reflected in the official statistics.
There have also been rapid changes in technology, procurement and methods
of delivery which have impacted on exporting AES firms and a more
appropriate set of characteristics is needed to better reflect the
project-specific and knowledge-intensive nature of AES firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 231-239
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Exports, services, construction, globalization, knowledge-based economy,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003587729
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003587729
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:231-239
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ryan Fan
Author-X-Name-First: Ryan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fan
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: Reliability of the Box-Jenkins model for forecasting construction demand covering times of economic austerity
Abstract:
As a driving engine for growth, the construction industry plays an
important role in a country's economic development process. Despite that,
the industry is vulnerable to cyclical oscillation and at times more
fundamental changes in work volume when the regional or global economy is
hit by unforeseen events. In order to formulate appropriate policies and
directions to help ease the impact of a fluctuating volume of construction
work, a model that can reliably predict the work of various construction
sectors after any economic turbulence would be extremely useful. In this
study, the Box-Jenkins approach is used for model development due to its
simplicity and sound theoretical background. The results illustrate that
the Box-Jenkins models can reliably predict the medium-term total
construction demand and residential demand covering a turbulent period of
ups and downs in construction demand. A multiple regression model is also
developed to compare against the modelling reliability of the Box-Jenkins
model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 241-254
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Construction demand, forecasting, Box-Jenkins technique, economic environment,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903369899
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903369899
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:241-254
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Title: Construction industry performance improvement programmes: the UK case of demonstration projects in the 'Continuous Improvement' programme
Abstract:
There has been a range of initiatives across many countries over the last
10 to 15 years to introduce reform to the construction process in order to
improve performance. The so-called UK 'Continuous Improvement' programme
is evaluated as a case study through an analysis of demonstration
projects. These projects symbolically represent best practice for others
to follow directly in the UK and through influence indirectly in other
countries. This raises methodological challenges, yet the scant empirical
attention given to this field justifies such attention. The main
conclusion is that there have been improvements, yet these seem not to
have been continuous. Contractors are distant from direct value creation,
increasingly relying upon others in the supply chain. Improvement measures
have not penetrated most supply chains. This suggests that contractors
need to develop learning and competency capacity; especially stakeholder
management and/or clients need to identify new solution providers. There
has been little direct evidence of this and the current environment is
placing emphasis upon price rather than value. Capacity and capabilities
for continuous improvement appear largely transient and insufficiently
embedded to persist where present.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 255-270
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Performance improvement, demonstration projects, investment, knowledge transfer management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903505948
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903505948
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:255-270
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Mark Jones
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Jones
Author-Name: Andrew Ross
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Ross
Author-Name: Begum Sertyesilisik
Author-X-Name-First: Begum
Author-X-Name-Last: Sertyesilisik
Title: Testing the unfolding model of voluntary turnover on construction professionals
Abstract:
Employee turnover affects performance and competitiveness of companies.
Traditional voluntary employee turnover models attempting to predict
voluntary turnover are based on job satisfaction. A recent model that
breaks away from this tradition is the unfolding model of voluntary
employee turnover (UMVT) which takes account of additional factors such as
labour market forces, economy and habit. UMVT has been tested in various
industries. However, in the construction sector UMVT is tested for the
first time in this study. A convenience sample of 320 construction
professionals was taken from the Global Construction Consultants, Davis
Langdon. The sample provided useable online survey data from 104
respondents who had voluntarily left their previous employers in the last
four years. The results reveal that UMVT's ability to interpret voluntary
employee turnover among construction professionals was weak. In contrast
to previous studies of UMVT, a significant number of respondents (80.8%)
followed paths other than the original five theorized paths. As a result,
a new extended version of the UMVT is proposed that includes two new paths
that have been theorized, which add to the understanding of voluntary
employee turnover and may, in the long term, help support human resource
management in construction professional practices to predict and manage
voluntary employee turnover.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 271-285
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Human resource management, workforce, professional, professional service firms, employee relations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003587737
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003587737
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:271-285
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li-Chung Chao
Author-X-Name-First: Li-Chung
Author-X-Name-Last: Chao
Title: Estimating project overheads rate in bidding: DSS approach using neural networks
Abstract:
Project overheads estimation by applying a selected rate as a percentage
of direct cost is used widely in bidding in construction, but the rate is
prone to inaccuracy if it is selected subjectively. An improved approach
is developed, a decision support system (DSS) based on a construction
firm's cost data and using a neural network model for mapping of overheads
rates from project attributes. The estimating ability of the proposed DSS
is continually updated by retraining the neural networks with accumulated
cost data in an expanding project database. An illustrative example is
provided, in which the creation and updating of a prototype neural network
model were simulated using cost data for projects spanning six years. The
model explains the effects of duration and direct cost on overheads rates
that the regression method fails to account for. The results also give
empirical evidence that the DSS is capable of improving accuracy through
annual model updating and may be used as a means for implementing
organizational learning. The methods for assessing the loss risk for a bid
incorporating an estimate from the DSS are provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 287-299
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Estimating, overheads, neural networks, statistical analysis, decision support systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903473782
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:287-299
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ulrika Badenfelt
Author-X-Name-First: Ulrika
Author-X-Name-Last: Badenfelt
Title: I trust you, I trust you not: a longitudinal study of control mechanisms in incentive contracts
Abstract:
The relationship between trust and control in client-contractor
interactions is explored, focusing on the control mechanisms used in a
construction project. A longitudinal case study of a large laboratory
construction project found that the client used a variety of control
mechanisms to ensure that the contractor behaved trustworthily. Empirical
data were gathered through interviews and non-participant observation. The
results indicate that the use of control mechanisms is part of a complex
and dynamic socially constructed process that requires ongoing discussion
and evaluation, and to which informal control mechanisms are central.
Business relationships built solely on trust are seemingly rare; even in
trust-based collaborative settings, such as partnering arrangements; the
contracting parties must pay attention to trust-nurturing actions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 301-310
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Longitudinal study, trust, control mechanisms, partnering arrangements, target cost contracts,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003587745
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:301-310
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick Erik Bradley
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Bradley
Title: An ultrametric interpretation of building related event data
Abstract:
The long-term behaviour of the built environment is relevant to
practising architects and engineers as well as to investors and policy
makers. In contrast to this, the size, structure and dynamics of that
important capital of society are not well established. As a first step
towards assessing the dynamics of new constructions, refurbishments,
demolitions and other building related event variables in urban building
stocks in Southwest Germany, a first random sample of event data is
examined using the more efficient ultrametric hierarchical classification
in order to compare their dynamics. To this end, different ways of binary
encodings of the multivariate data are carried out, and their ultrametric
classification results compared. It turns out that municipalities of
comparable sizes show similar behaviour in contrast to those of differing
sizes, which corresponds to previous findings. Consequently, ultrametric
methods can be applied to the study of building stock dynamics by
revealing inherent hierarchical structure in data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 311-326
Issue: 3
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Building stock dynamics, hierarchical classification, ultrametric methods,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903473790
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:3:p:311-326
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David William Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: David William
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Ammar Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: Ammar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Title: The risks of unbalanced bidding
Abstract:
Unbalanced bidding models have largely ignored the risk aspect of item
pricing. Many researchers have acknowledged that there are considerable
risks associated with unbalancing a bid but little has been done to
describe these risks, let alone model them. A new framework is proposed by
which all of these risks can be assessed. It identifies that these risks
comprise the risk of rejection, the risk of reaction, and the risk of
being wrong. It is further proposed that the value-at-risk ('VaR') method
of measuring risk is a convenient way by which to combine all of these
risks into one composite assessment. This quantified assessment serves to
describe the extent of risk generated by each level of each item's price.
Previous related research has proposed an unbalanced bidding model that
has likewise provided a measurement of the expected reward generated by
each level of each item's price. By doing a summation of these, keeping in
mind that the prices applied to all of a project's component items must
add up to the overall bid price, the contractor is able to assess both the
risks as well as the rewards of all possible item price combinations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 333-344
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Bidding, cost modelling, risk analysis, risk management, mark-up,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003663264
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:333-344
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Raisbeck
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Raisbeck
Author-Name: Colin Duffield
Author-X-Name-First: Colin
Author-X-Name-Last: Duffield
Author-Name: Ming Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Title: Comparative performance of PPPs and traditional procurement in Australia
Abstract:
Empirical research comparing projects procured as public-private
partnerships (PPPs) with other methods of procurement is important because
Australian governments plan to spend $320 billion on infrastructure over
the next decade and PPPs are perceived to be an appropriate form of
delivery. Estimating cost and risks in Australian capital projects is
often characterized by optimism bias—the tendency to be overly
optimistic about planned actions—and is too often based on
insufficient historical data on which to make decisions. Given this broad
context it is important to begin to understand in detail how PPPs have
performed against other forms of procurement. To achieve this, a detailed
study has been undertaken to compare the project time and cost outcomes
observed in the Australian PPP market with those projects delivered by
governments via traditional procurement methods. Two sets or pools of
projects were compared based on a detailed analysis of publicly available
data for a sample of 21 PPP projects and 33 traditional projects. This
selection was based on a consideration of previous studies, time and cost
metrics, project size and the relative complexity of different project
types. In comparing the two sets PPPs demonstrated superior cost
efficiency over traditional procurement, which ranged from 30.8% when
measured from project inception, to 11.4% when measured from contractual
commitment to the final outcome. Between the signing of the final contract
and project completion, PPPs were found to be completed 3.4% ahead of time
on average, while traditional projects were completed 23.5% behind time.
The overall conclusion is that PPPs provide superior performance in both
the cost and time dimensions, and that the PPP advantage increases (in
absolute terms) with the size and complexity of projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 345-359
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: PPPs, PFI, time and cost performance, procurement, infrastructure,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903582731
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:345-359
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Qingbin Cui
Author-X-Name-First: Qingbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Cui
Author-Name: Makarand Hastak
Author-X-Name-First: Makarand
Author-X-Name-Last: Hastak
Author-Name: Daniel Halpin
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Halpin
Title: Systems analysis of project cash flow management strategies
Abstract:
Cash flow management is one of the most important determinants of the
success of construction project management. Overdraft, retainage,
financing, payment and billing policies constitute the most significant
financial issues that contractors must plan, control and manage for the
successful completion of construction jobs. Particularly, in an attempt to
reduce project costs, contractors must balance cost savings of material
discounts due to early payments and extra interest expenses because of
additional overdraft. Through identifying feedback loops in project cash
flows, a system dynamics model is developed for project cash flow
management. The model is flexible to incorporate typical front-end and
back-end loading cash flow management strategies and provides an
interactive predication of project cash flows. A warehouse project is
discussed to demonstrate how various cash flow strategies improve
overdraft financing requirements and profitability. Especially, the
analysis shows an 11% reduction on overdraft requirements while using an
overbilling strategy, and 30% reduction if the trade credit strategy is
implemented.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 361-376
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Project cash flow, overdraft, cash flow management strategies, system dynamics, scenario analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702484
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:361-376
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ivan Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Author-Name: Frankie Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Frankie
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Title: Perception of various performance criteria by stakeholders in the construction sector in Hong Kong
Abstract:
All construction projects in Hong Kong have in common a cast of key
contract participants, consisting of clients, consultants (designers) and
contractors. The aim of this research is to examine, from different points
of view, these practitioners in regard to the importance of perceived
performance criteria and their respective performance outcomes in a
construction project. A research model is structured based on nine
performance criteria and their respective performances. The data were
collected from 324 practitioners who have participated in construction
projects in Hong Kong. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and repeated
measures ANOVA are used to analyse the data. The relative importance of
nine performance criteria and their performances are measured. Timely
completion of the project is the most important performance criterion,
followed by profit, environmental protection and quality. There are
differences in the importance of the performance criteria with respect to
performance. The differences in the perceptions of performance that are
identified are: (i) among different practitioners in a construction
project; (ii) due to different project types; and (iii) between different
functional roles in the partnering organizations. In order to further
understand the importance of the performance criteria with respect to
performance, the status quo of project partnering and congeniality
problems in the construction industry is reviewed. It is intended to
stimulate interest in the further exploration of solutions to improve the
overall performance of the construction industry in Hong Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 377-391
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Performance improvement, performance evaluation, partnering, supplier relationship, performance criteria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903521515
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:377-391
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammed Fadhil Dulaimi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed Fadhil
Author-X-Name-Last: Dulaimi
Author-Name: Mohamed Alhashemi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Alhashemi
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Title: The execution of public-private partnership projects in the UAE
Abstract:
There are few public-private partnership (PPP) projects in the UAE, but
the number is increasing. Recently government and public bodies have
intensified their interest in PPPs to encourage more involvement of the
private sector in the country's development. The aim of the research is to
evaluate the UAE experience in using PPP projects focusing on the critical
success and failure factors for PPPs in the UAE. Three case studies were
examined to identify the critical success factors and the failure factors.
The results have shown that political support is the most important
success factor followed by having a strong private consortium. The most
important factor that causes PPP projects to fail in this context is when
the consortium lacks the appropriate knowledge and skills. Hence, private
consortia need to ensure that they assemble the relevant skills and
knowledge of how to set up and manage a PPP as well as the crucial
knowledge pertaining to the local business environment and political
drivers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 393-402
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Public-private partnerships, critical success factors, failure factors, United Arab Emirate,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702492
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:393-402
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Safety risk perception in construction companies in the Pacific Northwest of the USA
Abstract:
Unsafe worker actions contribute greatly to the frequency and severity of
construction injuries. Recently, contractors have expressed concern with
the high rate of injuries that occur when workers violate company safety
policies. To enhance knowledge associated with this topic the following
four objectives were targeted: (1) quantifying the current level of safety
risk as perceived by construction workers; (2) quantifying the risk
tolerance of workers and managers; (3) comparing the risk perceptions and
tolerance of workers with managers; and (4) identifying factors that may
affect one's risk tolerance. Fifty-one risk perceptions were gathered
through interviews with managers and workers of nine different
construction firms in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
The results indicate that the level of current perceived risk is
approximately five times higher than the tolerable risk value, workers are
most dissatisfied with the frequency of high severity injuries, and there
is a statistically significant difference in the risk tolerance between
workers and managers. The findings presented can be used by project
managers to increase awareness of risk tolerances, current areas where
workers feel improvement is most needed, and for goal setting.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 403-413
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Safety, risk,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003587752
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:403-413
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joseph Hung Kit Lai
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph Hung Kit
Author-X-Name-Last: Lai
Title: Operation and maintenance budgeting for commercial buildings in Hong Kong
Abstract:
The significance of whole-life costs for building operation and
maintenance (O&M) is well known. The causes of ill-budgeted O&M resources,
however, are often uncertain. An in-depth exploration of the problems with
budgeting O&M works for commercial buildings in Hong Kong was carried out,
based on interviews with building owners, management companies and O&M
contractors. The practice of historical-based budgeting predominates among
a variety of budgeting bases, and budgets are largely constrained by
preceding budgets and predetermined budget ceilings. Budgetary costs are
significant, which can be economized through bundling small contracts into
larger procurement packages. The importance of satisfying O&M needs is
usually recognized but the motivations of practitioners toward preparation
of proper budgets are inadequate. Corresponding to the range of problems
identified, a framework of improvement measures is outlined, which
requires further development to help achieve proper budgeting for
sustainable operation and maintenance of buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 415-427
Issue: 4
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Budgeting, facilities management, maintenance, cost,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903365665
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:4:p:415-427
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nicole Ross
Author-X-Name-First: Nicole
Author-X-Name-Last: Ross
Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: David Lincoln
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Lincoln
Title: Sustainable housing for low-income communities: lessons for South Africa in local and other developing world cases
Abstract:
South Africa's housing backlog continues to grow amid delivery focused
more on quantum than on a consideration of the principles of sustainable
construction. South Africa needs to move away from its existing poor
environmental and housing conditions in the informal and low-income
settlements and address its housing backlog by considering all the
principles of sustainable construction. Using a case study approach, nine
sustainable housing projects across the developing world and South Africa
are assessed to draw best practice lessons for the construction of
sustainable housing for low-income communities in South Africa. An
evaluation framework comprising 49 indicators drawn from the literature is
used to assess each case's application of seven principles of sustainable
construction. Many sustainable practices have successfully been
implemented in the projects reviewed, including energy- and
water-efficient systems, the reuse of old buildings, the use of non-toxic
products, the preservation of natural vegetation, and the provision of
settlements that are dense and well located. Barriers to the
implementation of sustainable practices were identified as low levels of
user support; initial high costs of certain sustainable measures; and
political factors. The 'minimization of materials' was the most widely
adopted sustainability criterion, whilst the 'reuse of materials' was the
least. User support and acceptability, together with adequate funding, are
crucial to the success of sustainable settlements. The results provide
lessons for South Africa to address the needs of the poor using a
comprehensive sustainability approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-449
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Low-income settlements, sustainable construction, sustainable development, developing world, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903450079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:433-449
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Morgan Tuuli
Author-X-Name-First: Martin Morgan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuuli
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Tas Yong Koh
Author-X-Name-First: Tas Yong
Author-X-Name-Last: Koh
Title: Control modes and mechanisms in construction project teams: drivers and consequences
Abstract:
Control is purposive or goal directed, hence, there are underlying
drivers and consequences of the exercise of control modes and mechanisms.
In response to recent empirical findings that cast doubts on the
empowerment-control incompatibility thesis, the broader question of
whether control is predominantly 'controlling' or rather supportive in
work environments is addressed. Drivers and consequences of control modes
and mechanisms in five project teams involved in two ongoing construction
projects in Hong Kong are explored. As an interpretive and exploratory
study, a qualitative research design and the case study approach in
particular was appropriate. Framework, category formation and cross-case
analysis techniques were employed to analyse data collected through
documentary analysis, passive observations and semi-structured
face-to-face interviews. The exercise of control is driven by a range of
factors emanating from the individual-, team-, organization- and
project-level. Control modes and mechanisms also have performance-related
consequences for individuals, teams and organizations and are
predominantly attributable to self-based control mechanisms. Preliminary
evidence of the important link between self-control/empowerment and
performance is therefore provided which is instructive for the performance
improvement agenda in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 451-465
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Empowerment, drivers of control, Hong Kong, consequences of control, portfolio of control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702500
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:451-465
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Title: Work-family enrichment in the Australian construction industry: implications for job design
Abstract:
A survey of waged and salaried, project-based construction workers was
conducted. The survey measured work-family enrichment, a type of positive
interaction between work and family life. A six-item work-family
enrichment scale confirmed the bi-directional nature of work-family
enrichment. Job-related correlates of work-to-family enrichment were
identified. Flexibility, perceptions of control, time adequacy and
supervisor support were all positively correlated with work-to-family
enrichment. Regression analyses were performed to examine the extent to
which the relationship between these job-related resources and
work-to-family enrichment were mediated by perceptions of work schedule
fit. Work schedule fit fully mediated the relationship between flexibility
and control and work-to-family enrichment. The relationship between
supervisor support and time adequacy were only partially mediated by work
schedule fit, though a significant mediation effect was still observed.
The research suggests that jobs may be designed to facilitate work-family
enrichment in the construction industry, in particular through the
provision of supervisor support, flexibility, time adequacy and control.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 467-480
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Work-family enrichment, supervisor support, flexibility, job design, resources,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903511268
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:467-480
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kate Ness
Author-X-Name-First: Kate
Author-X-Name-Last: Ness
Title: The discourse of 'Respect for People' in UK construction
Abstract:
Critical discourse analysis (CDA) is mobilized to investigate some of the
assumptions that lie behind the text of the Respect for People reports
(2000, 2004), part of the 'Egan agenda' in the UK. The concept of respect
is examined, contrasting the humanist view of people as ends in themselves
with the instrumentalist view in which human beings are treated as means
to an end. Conceptualizing people as an asset encourages this instrumental
view. Similarly, the 'business case' argument for respecting people means
that improvements to working conditions are judged purely in accordance
with their contribution to efficiency and profitability rather than in
terms of moral imperatives (not killing people) or fairness (not
discriminating against them). Investigation of the structural,
institutional and discursive context of the text reveals it to be a
response to conditions at a particular historical moment: labour
shortages; the desire to avoid or pre-empt regulation; changes in the
wider prevailing discourse; and the need to give the impression that
'something is being done'. In conclusion it is suggested that, while the
Respect for People discourse may be seen as a way of containing and
defusing potential critique, it could also be drawn on by those seeking to
improve working conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 481-493
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Discourse, human resource management, Respect for People, working conditions, labour relations,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003674501
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:481-493
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Madelyn Marrero
Author-X-Name-First: Madelyn
Author-X-Name-Last: Marrero
Author-Name: Antonio Ramirez-De-Arellano
Author-X-Name-First: Antonio
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramirez-De-Arellano
Title: The building cost system in Andalusia: application to construction and demolition waste management
Abstract:
During the last 25 years, a building cost system (BCS) has been developed
in Andalusia, Spain. The first step was to generate the Andalusia
construction information classification system (ACICS). Not only is ACICS
valid as an estimation of cost, but it also provides a common method to
manage information during the design and construction of buildings.
Another important innovation is that this BCS defines the cost structure
which distinguishes between direct and indirect cost and thereby allows a
clear definition of all costs for each project type. Its most extended
usage is for estimating cost in building projects and it is mandatory in
public developments in Andalusia. This is the first time that this system
is presented internationally and compared to others. Furthermore, the
latest additions to ACICS are explained, and these take into account the
waste management of reused and recycled materials in the budget estimate
through a new division in the classification: Waste Management. Finally, a
new way to address the cost related to construction and demolition waste
management is explained which increases precision and generates an
estimate independent from the general budget.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-507
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost control, cost estimation, waste, construction information classification system,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003735500
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:495-507
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yakubu Adisa Olawale
Author-X-Name-First: Yakubu Adisa
Author-X-Name-Last: Olawale
Author-Name: Ming Sun
Author-X-Name-First: Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Sun
Title: Cost and time control of construction projects: inhibiting factors and mitigating measures in practice
Abstract:
Despite the availability of various control techniques and project
control software many construction projects still do not achieve their
cost and time objectives. Research in this area so far has mainly been
devoted to identifying causes of cost and time overruns. There is limited
research geared towards studying factors inhibiting the ability of
practitioners to effectively control their projects. To fill this gap, a
survey was conducted on 250 construction project organizations in the UK,
which was followed by face-to-face interviews with experienced
practitioners from 15 of these organizations. The common factors that
inhibit both time and cost control during construction projects were first
identified. Subsequently 90 mitigating measures have been developed for
the top five leading inhibiting factors—design changes,
risks/uncertainties, inaccurate evaluation of project time/duration,
complexities and non-performance of subcontractors were recommended. These
mitigating measures were classified as: preventive, predictive, corrective
and organizational measures. They can be used as a checklist of good
practice and help project managers to improve the effectiveness of control
of their projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 509-526
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost control, interview, practice, project control, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003674519
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:509-526
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulaziz Jarkas
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulaziz
Author-X-Name-Last: Jarkas
Title: The influence of buildability factors on rebar fixing labour productivity of beams
Abstract:
Buildability is one of the most important factors affecting construction
labour productivity. Nonetheless, an extensive search of the literature
revealed a dearth of research into its effects on in situ reinforced
concrete construction, especially at the rebar fixing trade level.
Buildability factors affecting rebar fixing labour productivity of major
structural elements, such as foundations, columns, walls, beams and slabs,
are yet to be investigated and quantified. In comparison with the other
constituents of the reinforced concrete frame, rebar fixing in beams is
one of the most labour-intensive and time-consuming activities, therefore,
the objective of this research is to quantify the effects and relative
influence of buildability factors on fixing labour productivity of beams.
To achieve this objective, a large volume of productivity data was
collected and analysed using the categorical interaction-regression
method. As a result, the effects of the variability of beam sizes, rebar
diameter, stirrups diameter, reinforcement quantity, beam dimensions, and
span geometry are determined. The findings show a significant influence of
these factors on the labour efficiency of the fixing operation, which may
be used to provide designers and construction managers with feedback on
how well the designs of this activity consider the requirements of
buildability, and the consequences of designers' decisions on the labour
productivity of the operation. In addition, a set of recommendations are
presented, which upon implementation, can improve the buildability level
of this activity, thus translate into higher labour productivity and more
efficient utilization of resources.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 527-543
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Reinforced concrete beams, labour productivity, buildability, rebar fixing, characteristic bar diameter,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003703482
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:527-543
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: Construction Cost Management: Learning from Case Studies
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-546
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903552502
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903552502
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:545-546
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu Song
Author-X-Name-First: Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Song
Title: Building Cycles: Growth and Instability
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 546-546
Issue: 5
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003674493
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003674493
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:5:p:546-546
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Editorial: objects, knowledge sharing and knowledge transformation in projects
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 549-555
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.495850
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.495850
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Author-Name: Sunila Lobo
Author-X-Name-First: Sunila
Author-X-Name-Last: Lobo
Title: Coordination and control in project-based work: digital objects and infrastructures for delivery
Abstract:
A major infrastructure project is used to investigate the role of digital
objects in the coordination of engineering design work. From a
practice-based perspective, research emphasizes objects as important in
enabling cooperative knowledge work and knowledge sharing. The term
'boundary object' has become used in the analysis of mutual and reciprocal
knowledge sharing around physical and digital objects. The aim is to
extend this work by analysing the introduction of an extranet into the
public-private partnership project used to construct a new motorway.
Multiple categories of digital objects are mobilized in coordination
across heterogeneous, cross-organizational groups. The main findings are
that digital objects provide mechanisms for accountability and control, as
well as for mutual and reciprocal knowledge sharing; and that different
types of objects are nested, forming a digital infrastructure for project
delivery. Reconceptualizing boundary objects as a digital infrastructure
for delivery has practical implications for management practices on large
projects and for the use of digital tools, such as building information
models, in construction. It provides a starting point for future research
into the changing nature of digitally enabled coordination in
project-based work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 557-567
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Infrastructure, knowledge flows, design process, digital techniques, practice,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.486838
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nicholas Berente
Author-X-Name-First: Nicholas
Author-X-Name-Last: Berente
Author-Name: Ryan Baxter
Author-X-Name-First: Ryan
Author-X-Name-Last: Baxter
Author-Name: Kalle Lyytinen
Author-X-Name-First: Kalle
Author-X-Name-Last: Lyytinen
Title: Dynamics of inter-organizational knowledge creation and information technology use across object worlds: the case of an innovative construction project
Abstract:
Organizational research argues that under relational forms of governance
a high degree of both information pooling and physical interaction are
necessary for inter-organizational knowledge creation. Yet, recent studies
of information and communication technologies (ICTs) suggest that both
practices at the same time are sometimes unnecessary. We address this
discrepancy by developing a framework whereby the intensity and proportion
of these inter-organizational practices are affected by the object world
congruence between designers within and across partnering firms, and the
level to which a common information technology platform is embedded in
their activity. Through a multi-level case study of a Frank Gehry
construction project we illustrate how designers with highly congruent
object worlds, due to a strongly embedded common information technology
platform, could jointly create knowledge despite decreased physical
interaction. Conversely, designers from firms with incongruent object
worlds or with congruent object worlds lacking a strongly embedded common
ICT platform demanded a higher degree of physical interaction for
effective knowledge creation. Our research suggests a dynamic,
evolutionary model of inter-organizational knowledge creation influenced
by variation in object world congruence and the levels of embedding a
common ICT platform.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-588
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Inter-organizational systems, information pooling, information technology, knowledge creation, project governance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.489926
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:569-588
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Title: Managing knowledge in platforms: boundary objects and stocks and flows of knowledge
Abstract:
Previous research suggests that construction industry companies use
relatively little formal managerial procedures when managing knowledge.
Instead, many construction companies are relying on informal networks and
social capital as conduits for the sharing of knowledge. However, objects
play an important role in organizations as vehicles for the sharing of
knowledge. The use of platforms, standardized packages of prescribed
components, routines and practices, in a major Scandinavian construction
company (SCC), demonstrates that platforms are potentially useful when
sharing and accumulating knowledge. The platform concept is a boundary
object integrating various functions and activities and standardizing work
procedures while at the same time leaving some room for contingencies and
local conditions. SCC's use of platforms contributes to the understanding
of knowledge sharing practices by emphasizing the role of formally enacted
objects and tools and by underlining the need for bridging and bonding the
stocks and flows of knowledge in construction companies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 589-599
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Platforms, knowledge sharing, boundary objects, construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903450061
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903450061
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:589-599
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Clementinah Ndhlovu Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: Clementinah Ndhlovu
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: John Alfred Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John Alfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: Patricia Tzortzopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Tzortzopoulos
Title: Using the physical properties of artefacts to manage through-life knowledge flows in the built environment: an initial exploration
Abstract:
Effective through-life management of built facilities requires effective
through-life knowledge management to support it. The KIM (Immortal
Information and Through-Life Knowledge Management) project attempted to
develop such an approach, based on a dichotomy of knowledge and
information. Knowledge is conceived in terms of communities of practice.
An initial philosophical analysis demonstrates deficiencies in this
conception. Drawing inspiration from production theory, a tripartite
analysis is offered, suggesting that knowledge flows consist of: social
practices, information and physical properties. Literature on physical
properties from design studies, production management and ethnomethodology
is briefly reviewed to demonstrate the information bearing functions of
physical properties. Fieldwork conforming to the unique adequacy
requirement of methods was carried out on construction sites, in hotel and
hospital facilities during the use stage of their life cycles. Safety
barriers on construction sites were found to have informational properties
beyond their function as a physical barrier. The quality of information
delivered by wayfinding signs was found to depend upon both the physical
placement of the signs in relation to the surrounding environment and the
physical layout of the sign itself. It was found that social practices are
institutionalized to repair the knowledge flow when the physically
instantiated wayfinding system breaks down. Finally, through the
investigation of practices surrounding emergency resuscitation equipment,
it was found that if the physical properties of information are not
designed to mesh with the work practices of the setting, this will lead to
a breakdown in the knowledge flow. It is suggested that elements of
knowledge management, ethnomethodology, production management and design
studies might be integrated to form the basis of a hybrid discipline.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 601-613
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Knowledge management, design, through-life management, ethnomethodology, production theory, product-service,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.489925
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:601-613
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Title: Keeping it real? Constituting partnering through boundary objects
Abstract:
Despite the wealth of research on partnering in construction,
comparatively little work has attempted to understand partnering as a
socially constructed and emergent phenomenon (Bresnen, 2009). Taking a
practice-based approach, this paper deploys the concept of boundary object
(e.g. Star and Griesemer, 1989) to explore the mechanisms associated with
partnering in the construction industry context. Building upon the
observations that such objects are themselves emergent phenomena and can
either enable or hinder communication/knowledge sharing, the paper uses
exploratory case study research to examine the ways in which the
mechanisms used to initiate and develop a partnering relationship
(charters, contracts, selection mechanisms and the like) are used to
achieve integration across organizational boundaries. The analysis
emphasizes the highly situated and localized nature of partnering in
practice and assesses the implications for attempts to develop more
generic and precise definitions and guidelines for implementing partnering
in the industry more widely.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 615-628
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Partnering, practice, boundary objects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003587711
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003587711
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Sage
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Sage
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Naomi Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Title: Who reads the project file? Exploring the power effects of knowledge tools in construction project management
Abstract:
Various critical authors have questioned the salience, efficacy and power
effects of formal project management bodies of knowledge (PMBoKs). As a
result project management knowledge tools are increasingly being
conceptualized along more flexible, adaptable, reflexive, democratic and
informal terms. A central driver for this shift is that PM knowledge will
be more relevant and useful for practitioners if it can be reflexively
tailored to fit local project scenarios, emergent problems and different
communities of practice, rather than projects being structured to fit
generic 'best practice' ideals. Hence new knowledge tools increasingly
would appear critical to alleviate various detrimental power effects
associated with bureaucratic knowledge practices within project-based
industries, not least construction. This assumption is examined through a
study of a formal and codified project management knowledge tool—a
project file—within a small team of project practitioners in a
large civil engineering consultancy. Various concepts of power related to
actor-network theory (ANT) are mobilized to understand how non-human
artefacts can enact power and knowledge in nuanced ways within
organizations. This theoretically informed study will aid both researchers
and practitioners interested in the consequences of developing
prescriptive or reflexive project management knowledge within construction
contexts and beyond.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 629-639
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Knowledge, power, project management, actor-network theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003725154
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003725154
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rachael Luck
Author-X-Name-First: Rachael
Author-X-Name-Last: Luck
Title: Using objects to coordinate design activity in interaction
Abstract:
The coordination of design is a multi-faceted problem in construction. In
design interactions in particular the real-time coordination of design
activity is a persistent concern. The use of objects to coordinate the
activity of design is studied as this happens in interactions between an
architect and a building user group, in a setting where maintaining
awareness of the design situation is important. An account of ways in
which this was accomplished and how design activity is coordinated through
interactional practices is provided. The empirical analyses examine design
interaction from an ethnomethodological/conversation analysis (EM/CA)
informed perspective to examine: ways in which mutual orientation to
design issues are accomplished, how objects can provide a resource for the
recognition of the activities of others and ways in which objects might be
observable as momentarily intelligible. Subtle interactional practices
involving talk, gesture and gaze were some of the small ways in which
mutual orientation to the design actions of others became observable. The
production of actions sequentially, in response to another's action,
marked the real-time coordination of design moves in this setting. The
relevance of accounts of micro-interaction to develop understanding of
design activity and how it is coordinated are considered.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 641-655
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Coordination, design, interaction, objects, talk-in-interaction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.489924
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:641-655
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Libby Schweber
Author-X-Name-First: Libby
Author-X-Name-Last: Schweber
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Actors and objects: a socio-technical networks approach to technology uptake in the construction sector
Abstract:
We explore the contribution of socio-technical networks approaches to
construction management research. These approaches are distinctive for
their analysis of actors and objects as mutually constituted within
socio-technical networks. They raise questions about the ways in which the
content, meaning and use of technology is negotiated in practice, how
particular technical configurations are elaborated in response to specific
problems and why certain paths or solutions are adopted rather than
others. We illustrate this general approach with three case studies: a
historical study of the development of reinforced concrete in France, the
UK and the US, the recent introduction of 3D-CAD software into four firms
and an analysis of the uptake of environmental assessment technologies in
the UK since 1990. In each we draw out the ways in which various
technologies shaped and were shaped by different socio-technical networks.
We conclude with a reflection on the contributions of socio-technical
network analysis for more general issues including the study of innovation
and analyses of context and power.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 657-674
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Socio-technical systems, socio-technical networks, CM research, methodology, practice, 3D CAD, reinforced concrete, environmental assessment systems,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702468
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:657-674
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Kjellberg
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Kjellberg
Title: Struggling to perform a warehouse: buildings as symbols and tools
Abstract:
The built environment and the way in which it is understood critically
affect many business enterprises. Despite its importance, few studies have
explicitly investigated the process through which changes to the built
environment are introduced into ongoing businesses. To this end the
methodological principles of the sociology of translation (ANT) were
employed to generate a historical account of one such change process.
Specifically, the account describes how a major Swedish food wholesaler
introduced one-storey warehouses into their operations. This introduction
was linked to a transformation of the warehouse as such: in the 1940s the
wholesaler viewed its warehouses as symbols ('outward signs of inner
strength') while ideas from the US suggested another identity—that
of a tool for wholesale operations. The efforts of the wholesaler to
realize this new identity included investments in metrologies,
organization schemes, and concrete, suggesting that theoretical
perspectives on objects are not generally applicable but require
perspective-specific investments in 'words and their worlds'. Viewing the
realization of an object-perspective as a performation struggle (Callon,
2007) it is suggested that this process of adjustment unfolds through
interplay between presenting and re-presenting the world.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 675-694
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Measurement, technological change, strategic planning, socio-technical systems, organizational learning, wholesaling, performation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702476
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003702476
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:675-694
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kjell Tryggestad
Author-X-Name-First: Kjell
Author-X-Name-Last: Tryggestad
Author-Name: Susse Georg
Author-X-Name-First: Susse
Author-X-Name-Last: Georg
Author-Name: Tor Hernes
Author-X-Name-First: Tor
Author-X-Name-Last: Hernes
Title: Constructing buildings and design ambitions
Abstract:
Project goals are conceptualized in the construction management
literature as either stable and exogenously given or as emerging
endogenously during the construction process. Disparate as these
perspectives may be, they both overlook the role that material objects
used in construction processes can play in transforming knowledge and
thereby shaping project goals. Actor-network theory is used to explore the
connection between objects and knowledge with the purpose of developing an
adaptive and pragmatic approach to goals in construction. Based on a case
study of the construction of a skyscraper, emphasis is given to how design
ambitions emerge in a process of goal translation, and to how, once these
ambitions are materialized, tensions between aesthetic and functional
concerns emerge and are resolved. These tensions are resolved through
trials of strength as the object—the building—is elaborated
and circulates across sites in various forms, e.g. artistic sketches,
drawings and models. Given that initial goal accuracy is often seen as a
key success factor, these insights have theoretical and practical
implications for the management and evaluation of the construction
project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-705
Issue: 6
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Design ambitions, project goals, knowledge, evaluation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003755441
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003755441
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:6:p:695-705
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ing Liang Wong
Author-X-Name-First: Ing Liang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: Srinath Perera
Author-X-Name-First: Srinath
Author-X-Name-Last: Perera
Author-Name: Philip Eames
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Eames
Title: Goal directed life cycle costing as a method to evaluate the economic feasibility of office buildings with conventional and TI-facades
Abstract:
Transparent insulation systems (TI-systems) of less than 20cm thick have
been developed as an alternative to opaque wall insulation and windows,
which provide a financial return to building occupants when applied to
building facades. Lack of detailed cost analysis of TI-systems is a major
constraint to the application of TI-wall and TI-glazing in buildings. A
goal directed life cycle costing (LCC) technique and sensitivity analysis
used to evaluate the economic feasibility of TI-applications in office
buildings form the basis of this research. It was undertaken as part of
research to determine optimum energy and cost performance of TI-systems
for external cladding of high-rise and low-rise office buildings in
temperate and tropical climates. The LCC of the buildings with
conventional facades were compared with those with TI-facades. The results
show that LCC can be used to evaluate the economic feasibility of low
carbon technologies such as TI-systems effectively. A detailed account is
provided of how different sources of cost data can be captured, collected
and integrated to perform selective goal directed LCC analysis in the
absence of detailed historical LCC data. The use of the goal directed LCC
method and cost influence diagram presented in this research can be
adopted as a standard method for assessing the economic feasibility of
applying low carbon technologies to buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 715-735
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Life cycle cost, transparent insulation system, discounted cash flow, cost influence diagrams,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003753867
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003753867
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:715-735
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Duzgun Agdas
Author-X-Name-First: Duzgun
Author-X-Name-Last: Agdas
Author-Name: Ralph Ellis
Author-X-Name-First: Ralph
Author-X-Name-Last: Ellis
Title: The potential of XML technology as an answer to the data interchange problems of the construction industry
Abstract:
The complex supply chain relations of the construction industry, coupled
with the substantial amount of information to be shared on a regular basis
between the parties involved, make the traditional paper-based data
interchange methods inefficient, error prone and expensive. The successful
information technology (IT) applications that enable seamless data
interchange, such as the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems, have
generally failed to be successfully implemented in the construction
industry. An alternative emerging technology, Extensible Markup Language
(XML), and its applicability to streamline business processes and to
improve data interchange methods within the construction industry are
analysed, as is the EDI technology to identify the strategic advantages
that XML technology provides to overcome the barriers to implementation.
In addition, the successful implementation of XML-based automated data
interchange platforms for a large organization, and the proposed benefits
thereof, are presented as a case study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 737-746
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Information technology, electronic data interchange, extensible markup language,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003767503
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003767503
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:737-746
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Oluwole Alfred Olatunji
Author-X-Name-First: Oluwole Alfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Olatunji
Title: The impact of oil price regimes on construction cost in Nigeria
Abstract:
Construction costs in Nigeria are often high and unpredictable. The
pattern of variability is not explained by inflationary indices of common
goods and services, but rather it is reactive to boom-and-burst shocks
that are triggered by oil price regimes. Pearson's correlation analysis is
deployed to examine the relationships between the dynamics of crude oil
price regimes (volume of crude oil export and price), selected indices of
macrovariability—lending rate (prime), inflation rate and aggregate
GDP growth, and supply deficit (demand-output gap) of local cement
production. Analysis shows that construction cost is high because of high
cost of finance and wild volatility that are stimulated by frictions in
oil price regimes. Moreover, while the Nigerian construction industry
shows positive growth and significant contribution to aggregate GDP growth
in the past decade, the oil industry has persistently failed to trigger
positive GDP growth. Furthermore, the variables under examination (as
listed above) are also subjected to regression analysis to develop a
mathematical model for predicting construction costs, relative to crude
oil shock and defined macrovariability indices. Recommendations are made
on how to avoid multicollinearity in similar studies and for areas of
further studies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 747-759
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Oil economics, construction costs, macrovariability, gross domestic product, national income,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003725162
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003725162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:747-759
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Venny Chandra
Author-X-Name-First: Venny
Author-X-Name-Last: Chandra
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Mapping stakeholders' cultural learning in the hospital briefing process
Abstract:
In the context of a major hospital redevelopment project, briefing is
conceived as an organic and cyclical process of cultural learning whereby
project and hospital representatives gradually converge upon a shared
meaning of each other's values, beliefs and needs over time. Using a
comparative cause mapping that draws on a case study approach and
interviews, it was found that the clinicians' understanding of the key
cultural concepts differed significantly from all other groups and that
clinicians' ability to influence hospital design outcomes is constrained
by their relative social marginalization in the briefing process. It
follows that hospital facilities would better meet client needs if the
briefing process is managed as a process through which project
participants interact to socially construct a common understanding of
project objectives and requirements; and if knowledge about facility
requirements is not merely 'given' information but is the result of
cultural learning involving social processes among the briefing
participants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 761-769
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Briefing, cultural learning, comparative cause mapping, hospital, partnering,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003758163
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003758163
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:761-769
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Salam Al-bizri
Author-X-Name-First: Salam
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-bizri
Author-Name: Colin Gray
Author-X-Name-First: Colin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gray
Title: Management framework for technology clusters implementation
Abstract:
Much of the construction industry improvement agenda has been focused on
achieving integration of the design and construction processes. However,
the current approaches do not create an organizational framework to deal
with the full integration of the supply chains for component based
construction. The real construction supply chain of clients, designers,
specialist designers, specialist manufacturers, constructors and
assemblers is not integrated into one group with a common purpose. A major
and ongoing challenge is to manage the essential grouping of contributors
and participants, many of whom are involved for varying times on a
relatively short-term basis. Grouping, by using technology clusters,
addresses many of these challenges as it creates a commonly shared
sub-organization and culture that aids the removal of barriers to
efficient and quality production. A technology cluster approach is a
management philosophy and its principles can be applied whatever the
procurement approach, although managed forms of procurement provide a
better framework. Our studies of projects that have adopted a clustering
approach have provided an understanding of the implementation issues of
technology clusters and established the consequent changes in
organizational design and management necessary to achieve full integration
of the supply chain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 771-782
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Integration, procurement, supply chain, technology clusters,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003725170
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003725170
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:771-782
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pertti Lahdenpera
Author-X-Name-First: Pertti
Author-X-Name-Last: Lahdenpera
Title: Conceptualizing a two-stage target-cost arrangement for competitive cooperation
Abstract:
The owner may involve design and construction service providers in a
project at different stages of planning and design. Early involvement of
the versatile know-how of service providers places the owner at the
services providers' mercy as to pricing. Late involvement, when design is
close to completion, allows using price competition to ensure reasonable
pricing. Then, design usually does not involve interplay between the key
parties to benefit the project. The aim of the conceptualization is to
overcome the above-mentioned problem by generating a novel type of
two-stage target-cost contracting system which combines early selection
and price containment. There the calculated tender price is based on both
the owner's estimates and the tenderers' unit cost and overhead data while
the project scope is not yet fully established. Selected service providers
then develop the project and its designs in cooperation with the owner
before the actual target-cost is set. Incentives have been created to
lower the target-cost below the earlier calculated tender price. The idea
is to spur actors to invest especially in the critical pre-implementation
development phase. Subsequent risk sharing is believed to increase the
cooperation between parties further. The model offers a means, especially
for European public owners, to enter into a cooperative relationship that
is of value in the case of projects involving special challenges and a
great deal of uncertainty. The European Procurement Act requires costs to
be taken into account in the selection.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 783-796
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Incentive contracts, target-cost, early contractor involvement, public sector procurement, alliancing,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.487534
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.487534
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:783-796
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: The culture of complaint in construction: affirmative reflections on its role and function
Abstract:
Anecdotal evidence and literature searches suggest that the construction
industry is generally portrayed in negative terms; it is conservative,
risk-reluctant, unable to produce innovation, and so forth. This 'culture
of complaint' occasionally surfacing in talks and writing is examined as
what is in essence ideological, that is, rather than being a marginal
gesture of little social and cultural significance, complaining is serving
as a functional mechanism enabling, inter alia, a sense of community, the
warding off of criticism, and to cope with perceived uncertainties. The
commonplace dismissal of the construction industry is thus worthy of more
systematic scholarly attention.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 797-803
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Complaint, organization culture, ideology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003789457
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003789457
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:797-803
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sai On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Title: Relational Contracting for Construction Excellence: Principles, Practices and Case Studies
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 805-806
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.488268
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.488268
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:805-806
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Title: Collaborative Relationships in Construction: Developing Frameworks and Networks
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 806-807
Issue: 7
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.487533
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.487533
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:7:p:806-807
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Title: Safety climate in conditions of construction subcontracting: a multi-level analysis
Abstract:
A multi-level safety climate model was tested in the Australian
construction industry. Subcontracted workers' perceptions of the
organizational safety response (OSR) and supervisor safety response (SSR)
in their own organization and that of the principal contractor were
measured using a safety climate survey administered at a large hospital
construction project in Melbourne. One hundred and fourteen construction
workers completed the survey, representing nine subcontractors engaged at
the project. Two requisite conditions for the existence of group-level
safety climates, i.e. (1) within-group homogeneity; and (2) between-group
variation were satisfied for perceptions of subcontractors' OSR and SSR.
This supports the contention that subcontractors working in a single
construction project exhibit a unique group-level safety climate.
Subcontracted workers also discriminated between group-level safety
climates (i.e. the SSR) in their own and in the principal contractor's
organizations. The results suggest some cross-level influence. Perceptions
of the SSR were positively predicted by perceptions of the OSR in both the
principal and subcontractor organizations. Perceptions of the OSR of the
principal contractor were also a significant predictor of the perceived
OSR and SSR in the subcontractor organizations. Perceptions of the
subcontractors' SSR were a significant predictor of the rate of lost-time
and medical treatment incidents reported by the subcontractor. Although
perceptions of the principal contractor's SSR were not directly related to
subcontractors' injury rates, they were a significant predictor of
subcontractors' SSR, revealing an indirect link. The results suggest that
supervisory personnel (e.g. foremen and leading hands) play an important
role in shaping safety performance in subcontracted workgroups.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 813-825
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Occupational health and safety, organizational safety response, supervisor safety response, lost-time injuries, medical treatment injuries,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903480035
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903480035
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:813-825
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shi Chao Fan
Author-X-Name-First: Shi Chao
Author-X-Name-Last: Fan
Author-Name: Qi Ping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Qi Ping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Xiaochun Luo
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaochun
Author-X-Name-Last: Luo
Title: Group decision support systems in value management
Abstract:
Value management (VM) practitioners often encounter problems of lack of
active participation and insufficient time and information in decision
analysis. The use of a group decision support system (GDSS) is proposed to
overcome the above problems by improving the efficiency and effectiveness
of VM studies. In order to identify the critical success factors (CSFs)
for implementing GDSS in VM studies, an experimental study was conducted
to simulate the use of GDSS in VM studies, and then a questionnaire survey
was conducted to collect the views of the participants. Factor analysis
was used to explore the underlying critical success factors, and the
results indicated that certain requirements must be met for the successful
application of GDSS in VM studies. In particular, a VM team with an
appropriate computer skills mix, and GDSS with good utility were believed
to be the most significant underlying factors. Besides these, two other
factors, system capabilities and experimental settings, should be also
considered in order to achieve a successful application of GDSS in VM
studies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 827-838
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Value management, case-based reasoning, group decision support system, construction briefing, critical success factors,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003758171
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003758171
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:827-838
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahim Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Ahim
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Performance of minority firms providing construction management services in the US transportation sector
Abstract:
The preferential selection of minority firms in federally assisted
contracts, state contracts and large metropolitan contracts has been in
effect in the US for the purpose of meeting affirmative action goals, but
this practice has also raised questions about the quality of contract
performance. A survey of 93 firms was conducted for a comparative
investigation of the performance of minority vs. non-minority construction
management (CM) firms. Minority CM firms include firms owned by ethnic
minorities, disabled persons and women. An assessment model was developed
following an extensive literature review on contemporary performance
measurement tools. The model was converted into a survey that was
administered to prequalified minority and non-minority firms that provided
CM services in the transportation sector in the US. When a Mann-Whitney
test was administered to the collected data regardless of firm size and
age, it was found that non-minority CM firms outperformed minority CM
firms. However, it was also found that minority CM firms were smaller and
younger than non-minority CM firms. When 'large and old' minority and
non-minority CM firms were compared, no significant differences were found
in performance. But when 'small and young' minority and non-minority CM
firms were compared, it was found that minority firms were outperformed by
non-minority firms financially. It is concluded that 'small and young'
minority firms particularly suffer from the liability created by smallness
and newness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-851
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Construction management services, minority firms, women-owned firms, equal opportunity, diversity, firm performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.483331
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.483331
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:839-851
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tatsiana Haponava
Author-X-Name-First: Tatsiana
Author-X-Name-Last: Haponava
Author-Name: Saad Al-Jibouri
Author-X-Name-First: Saad
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Jibouri
Title: Influence of process performance during the construction stage on achieving end-project goals
Abstract:
Within a project environment, good process performance can be seen as
indicative of eventual success of achieving end-project goals. A model is
proposed for identifying the links between process performance during
construction and end-project goals. The model is developed using process
mapping technique to identify a number of process-based key performance
indicators (KPIs) designed for use in controlling process performance in
the construction stage. These KPIs were then linked to generic project
goals to measure the perceived degree of influence of process performance
on the achievement of end-project goals. The strength of these links
within the model was established through a number of in-depth interviews
with respondents. Analysis of the results using methods of ranking and
statistics has shown that some processes are perceived to have stronger
relationships with the end-project goals than others. The proposed
process-based KPIs hence offer an opportunity for control of the processes
during the construction stage and eventually to influence the projects'
outcomes. In addition to the management of project time and cost, the
model provides a broader focus of control that includes other multiple
aspects such as the management of interactions between internal and
external stakeholders as well as of information and quality management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 853-869
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Process performance, key performance indicators, construction stage, control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.487535
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.487535
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:853-869
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Kremers
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Kremers
Author-Name: Bas Rietjens
Author-X-Name-First: Bas
Author-X-Name-Last: Rietjens
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Sirp De Boer
Author-X-Name-First: Sirp
Author-X-Name-Last: De Boer
Title: Construction contracting and civil-military interaction
Abstract:
There is a need for improved insights into the contracting process for
construction projects that the military contract out to civil contractors
in the specific setting of civil-military interaction (CMI) in regions
that are suffering from instability and armed conflict. The core questions
are: what are the key criteria for contracting out CMI projects in
out-of-area operations, and what contracting methods are appropriate?
First, we discuss possible methods and key criteria for contracting out
CMI projects. Following this, a case study based in the Uruzgan province
of Afghanistan explores key criteria for contracting out CMI projects.
Based on this case study, the following five CMI-related criteria have
been identified: generating information on the civilian environment;
contributing to building local capacity; process transparency; force
acceptance and local participation; and contracting as a tool for
stability. These criteria dominate more regular criteria such as cost and
time. Some methods frequently used in developed economies, for example the
open public tender procedure, seem less appropriate when contracting out
CMI projects within a military mission. In CMI projects, contracting most
closely resembles the multiple negotiated tender procedure. Future
projects can use the identified range of methods and key criteria in
designing an improved contracting process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 871-883
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Contracting, tendering, Afghanistan, military mission, criteria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003762256
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003762256
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:871-883
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark Dunlop Taylor
Author-X-Name-First: Mark Dunlop
Author-X-Name-Last: Taylor
Title: A definition and valuation of the UK offsite construction sector
Abstract:
The offsite construction sector is now established as a significant
contributor to the delivery of UK construction industry output. The exact
value of this contribution is questionable and has been subject to
substantial debate in recent literature. Existing offsite construction
sector valuation methodologies have been based upon market research
questionnaires and estimates of turnover and manufacturing output.
Considerable attention has been given to the definition of the terms used
to describe the various constituent technologies and manufacturing
processes. However there has been limited reference to its size, sector
classification, employment statistics and value added to the UK gross
domestic output. A method is presented for the determination of the UK
offsite construction sector gross output and value added. Historical data
for the period 1998 to 2008 with growth forecasts up to 2013 are offered.
A breakdown of the sector, examining the common standard industrial
activity classification codes (SIC), the gross output and value added for
each sub-sector is provided. The results show that there has been
significant underestimation of the gross output and value added when
compared to previous studies. An understanding of the broad and diverse
nature of the offsite construction sector is provided with data that
demonstrate an overview of the sector's historical performance. The data
will assist government and industry in benchmarking, market research and
forecasting the further growth and diffusion of offsite construction
techniques.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 885-896
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Offsite construction, prefabrication, gross output, value added,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.480976
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.480976
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:885-896
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Title: Labour Conditions for Construction: Decent Work, Building Cities and the Role of Local Authorities
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 897-898
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.492839
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.492839
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:897-898
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Understanding Organisational Culture in the Construction Industry
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 898-900
Issue: 8
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.498480
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.498480
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:8:p:898-900
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: Partnering: what is it, when should it be used, and how should it be implemented?
Abstract:
The interest in construction partnering has increased during the last
decade. Much research has, however, found that cooperation and its
benefits are not easily obtained, partly due to a lack of understanding of
the partnering concept and when and how to implement it. The aim is
therefore to increase this understanding by investigating three research
questions: (1) What is partnering? (2) When should partnering be used and
to what extent? (3) How should partnering be implemented? A thorough
literature review and four case studies are utilized to develop a
definition of partnering and discuss when and how partnering should be
implemented through cooperative procurement procedures. Partnering is
defined as a cooperative governance form that is based on core and
optional cooperative procurement procedures to such an extent that
cooperation-based coopetition is facilitated. Mandatory core procedures
are: soft parameters in bid evaluation, compensation form based on open
books, and usage of the core collaborative tools start-up workshop, joint
objectives, follow-up workshops, teambuilding, and conflict resolution
techniques. Complementary optional procedures are: early involvement of
contractors in concurrent engineering, limited bid invitation, joint
selection and involvement of subcontractors in broad partnering teams,
collaborative contractual clauses, incentives based on group performance,
usage of complementary collaborative tools (e.g. partnering questionnaire,
facilitator, joint risk management, joint project office, and joint IT
tools), and increased focus on contractors' self-control.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 905-917
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Partnering, procurement, cooperation, governance, case study,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190903536422
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446190903536422
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:905-917
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Maria Balatbat
Author-X-Name-First: Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Balatbat
Author-Name: Cho-yi Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Cho-yi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: David Carmichael
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Carmichael
Title: Comparative performance of publicly listed construction companies: Australian evidence
Abstract:
Understanding the performance of publicly listed Australian construction
companies, in comparison with other Australian listed companies, is vital
to the construction sector's continuous access to capital from the public
equity market. Evidence on the performance of construction companies that
do business in building and/or civil infrastructure is presented and
compared with the Australian All Ordinaries Index and a portfolio of
publicly listed (blue chip) companies. Using fundamental analysis, a
comprehensive assessment on a range of financial and performance
indicators is provided (including share prices, equity valuation multiples
and profitability ratios) over the 10-year period, 1998 to 2007. The
results show that, apart from the period when the Goods and Services Tax
was introduced in 2000, the performance of publicly listed Australian
construction companies in most of the indicators assessed is comparable to
the largest traded shares on the Australian Securities Exchange. The
empirical evidence is encouraging and could potentially elicit interest
and confidence for investors to invest in construction companies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 919-932
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Financial ratios, company performance, market performance,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.501805
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.501805
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:919-932
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Yan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Malmquist indices of total factor productivity changes in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
Construction is an important industry and forms a vital part of national
economics in the world. Factors affecting the productivity of the
construction industry should be measured appropriately to reflect its
development situation and economic performance. The Malmquist index method
with a novel decomposition technique is employed to estimate the total
factor productivity of the Australian construction industry during the
period 1990-2007 and to analyse the factors affecting the technological
change in the industry. Research results exemplified by two input
variables and one output variable elaborate how construction technology,
pure technical efficiency and scale economy take effect in the change of
construction productivity. In addition, based on temporal and spatial
comparisons, the analysis for construction productivities reveals their
changes over time and across the country. Proposals and recommendations
are expected to be beneficial for policy making and strategic decisions to
improve the performance of the Australian construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 933-945
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Australia, construction industry, data analysis envelopment, Malmquist total factor productivity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003762231
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003762231
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:933-945
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Wei Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Title: Does debt structure matter? Estimating contractor default barrier by the down-and-out call option approach
Abstract:
The down-and-out call option approach was used to analyse contractor
financial risk under shorter-term debt structures. The maximum likelihood
method was applied to estimate contractor default barriers and
probabilities implied by stock prices series and actual debt maturities
calculated from historical debt data. Results indicate that the default
barriers implied by shorter-term debt structures are higher than previous
estimates using longer-term debt structures. Further regression analysis
shows that implied barriers do not reflect the full effects of asset
quality in ameliorating financial distress. Hence, the implied default
barriers tend to be higher than the actual default barriers. When applying
the DOC approach, if the implied barrier is not calibrated to reflect the
borrower's asset quality, the barrier will tend to overestimate default
probability. This has important implications on contractor financial risk
monitoring, security pricing and short-term financial planning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 947-958
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Financial risk, down-and-out call option, maximum likelihood method, regression analysis, financial planning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003762264
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003762264
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:947-958
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yat-Hung Chiang
Author-X-Name-First: Yat-Hung
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiang
Author-Name: Eddie Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Title: Construction loans and industry development: the case of Hong Kong
Abstract:
Building contractors are generally small private firms. Bank loans are
their major, if not only, source of external finance. However, building
and construction loans represent a mere minuscule portion of all bank
loans in Hong Kong, suggesting that contractors may have been neglected by
banks. With the case of Hong Kong, this study examines the lack of supply
and demand of construction finance, and the implications for industry
competition and innovation. Contractors' perceptions were solicited
through a questionnaire survey. Key issues identified were further
explored in subsequent interviews. The results were then triangulated with
secondary data. It is found that although contractors do not usually have
enough assets to pledge as collateral, they generally do not need to
borrow that much. The provision of interim payments has enabled them to
work with small capital outlay. However, the interim payment mechanism has
induced a low barrier to entry, which has helped perpetuate the vicious
circle of labour intensiveness of building construction, exploitation of
labour-only subcontracting, proliferation of small subcontractors and
intense rivalry between firms. The findings conclude that contractors'
limited access to finance generally and bank loans in particular has posed
a major barrier to innovation and hence industry development.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 959-969
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Construction companies, finance, industry development, Hong Kong,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.494679
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:959-969
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Jones
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy
Author-X-Name-Last: Jones
Author-Name: Yongwei Shan
Author-X-Name-First: Yongwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Shan
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Title: An investigation of corporate approaches to sustainability in the US engineering and construction industry
Abstract:
Sustainability involves focusing on a project's impact in three areas:
(1) environmental; (2) economical; and (3) societal. In reality,
companies' approaches in the three areas are not evenly distributed. A
study of current trends in the US construction industry related to the
emerging focus on sustainable construction will be of great value for the
engineering and construction industry to recognize the differences in
corporate approaches to sustainability, for the sake of team alignment. A
random cross-section of 300 companies, consisting of 150 owner companies,
75 contractor companies and 75 design firms representing a variety of
industries, was selected from annual company data assembled by the weekly
construction news publication Engineering News Record (ENR). To identify
sustainability-related concepts within the context of these company
documents, content analyses and chi-square statistical analyses were
performed on the selected companies' publicly available annual reports and
mission/vision/values statements. The primary objectives are to: (1)
identify concepts of sustainability that are currently being emphasized
within the US engineering and construction industry, possibly at the
expense of other concepts; and (2) develop an understanding of the
relationships between various company and industry groups related to the
fundamental concepts of sustainable construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 971-983
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Sustainability, society, economic, environment, content analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003789465
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003789465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:971-983
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jouko Lennart Lehtonen
Author-X-Name-First: Jouko Lennart
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehtonen
Author-Name: Juhani Matti Kiiras
Author-X-Name-First: Juhani Matti
Author-X-Name-Last: Kiiras
Title: Cost modelling in underpinning projects
Abstract:
Large refurbishment projects are characterized by highly varied costs
from one project to another. In Finnish underpinning, only retrospective
analysis of costs has been available for the owner's decision process. In
order to develop tools for pre-tender cost estimating and for comparison
of different design solutions and evaluation of tenders of the
underpinning project, two different cost models have been developed for
research. In both models developed, the minimum data required is the pile
length. In the more detailed model, the assessment is based on the design
solution, including known pile types and the load transfer classification.
Both models are easy to use, and the percentage of explained variance is
fairly good in the more detailed model.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 985-995
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost modelling, refurbishment, underpinning,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.487537
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:985-995
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Jonathan Marks
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan
Author-X-Name-Last: Marks
Title: Perceptions of HIV/AIDS policies and treatment programmes by Western Cape construction firms
Abstract:
The HIV/AIDS pandemic poses a substantial long-term threat to economic
development in South Africa. A questionnaire survey explored the
perceptions of a sample of construction firms in the Western Cape
regarding HIV/AIDS policy and treatment programmes. The findings show that
there is no universal view about the long-term threat of HIV/AIDS. Most
organizations have awareness policies in place but prevention and
treatment policies are less common. Treatment programmes are the least
implemented of all intervention services due to insufficient resource
capacity, the potential stigmatization of infected persons, and low
take-up rates. Despite an acknowledgement of the benefits flowing from
mounting treatment programmes, doubt exists as to their financial
viability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 997-1006
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, treatment programmes, construction organizations, South Africa,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.495987
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:997-1006
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Atkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkinson
Author-Name: Rebecca Westall
Author-X-Name-First: Rebecca
Author-X-Name-Last: Westall
Title: The relationship between integrated design and construction and safety on construction projects
Abstract:
The occurrence of accidents and injuries continues to be a major problem
in construction worldwide. Even though accident statistics have been
improving in most markets there are significant areas requiring further
attention. The extent of integrated working between designers and
constructors may be an instrumental factor. A comparison is undertaken of
the accident performance of 55 large construction projects in the UK, with
varying levels of design/construction integration as represented by
procurement path. Although a statistical relationship between high levels
of integration and low levels of accidents was weak, a follow-up interview
study provided strong support, suggesting that a lack of significance was
related to the unreliability of the statistics available. The interview
study also indicated reasons for this link. A key element in improved
safety was seen to be better communications and a more positive
relationship between designers and constructors. Further research into
designing for safety for all procurement paths is recommended.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1007-1017
Issue: 9
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Safety, accidents, integrated working, architectural design,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.504214
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.504214
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:9:p:1007-1017
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lara Jaillon
Author-X-Name-First: Lara
Author-X-Name-Last: Jaillon
Author-Name: Chi-Sun Poon
Author-X-Name-First: Chi-Sun
Author-X-Name-Last: Poon
Title: Design issues of using prefabrication in Hong Kong building construction
Abstract:
Prefabrication techniques have been adopted for the last two decades in
public housing projects in Hong Kong, but the use of prefabrication in the
private sector was encouraged only after the implementation of the Joint
Practices Notes which promote its use. Although previous studies
acknowledge the environmental benefits of using prefabrication, only a few
studies have addressed sustainable design concepts (closed-loop) in the
adoption of precast construction. A questionnaire survey was administered
to experienced Hong Kong construction professionals, and case studies of
recently completed building projects were compiled to ascertain the use of
prefabrication with reference to life cycle approach. The findings
revealed that prefabrication, combined with modular design and standard
components, saved time and construction/design costs, as buildings systems
were used across projects. However, in some projects, specific site
conditions restricted the use of similar prefabricated building systems
across projects. Surprisingly only a few participants addressed life cycle
design concepts such as design for deconstruction when adopting precast
construction. Also, although it is common knowledge that flexible and
demountable prefabricated building systems would result in efficient use
of resources, their use is seldom practised in Hong Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1025-1042
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Hong Kong, life cycle design, prefabrication, precast concrete, sustainable construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.498481
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sutapa Das
Author-X-Name-First: Sutapa
Author-X-Name-Last: Das
Author-Name: M. Y. L. Chew
Author-X-Name-First: M. Y. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chew
Author-Name: Kim Leng Poh
Author-X-Name-First: Kim Leng
Author-X-Name-Last: Poh
Title: Multi-criteria decision analysis in building maintainability using analytical hierarchy process
Abstract:
A building maintainability (BM) approach is the only plausible solution
to balance a decreasing budget and increasing standards of modern
commercial buildings. There is no decision-analysis framework for BM
management while many objective and subjective parameters add to its
complexity and hinder direct comparison of various building systems
contributing to overall BM. A model was developed to compare nine major
building systems, namely: basement, facade, wet area, roof, sanitary
plumbing, HVAC, elevator, electrical and fire protection system.
Analytical hierarchy process was chosen to address complex BM parameters.
From a questionnaire survey and face-to-face interviews with 37 experts in
facilities management, BM was found to depend on technical viability of
services and business profile controlled by building height and location
respectively. For various location-height combinations, individual sets of
priorities were derived for each building system and the results were
supported logically. HVAC was the highest contributor to BM followed by
elevator and facade. The proposed generic method can be directly applied
to both new and existing commercial buildings in Singapore and extended to
other building types or climate. This precise but simple platform for
multi-criteria decision analysis promises higher BM and economic returns
for any commercial property.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1043-1056
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Analytical hierarchy process, building maintainability, commercial property, decision analysis, facilities management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.501806
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1043-1056
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Liang Shan
Author-X-Name-First: Liang
Author-X-Name-Last: Shan
Author-Name: Michael Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Author-Name: Raman Kumar
Author-X-Name-First: Raman
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumar
Title: Collar options to manage revenue risks in real toll public-private partnership transportation projects
Abstract:
The revenue risk is of great importance to ensure the success of a real
toll public-private partnership (PPP) transportation project. Past
research has proposed a revenue guarantee put option as an alternative way
to quantify and potentially manage this risk. A practical, or commercial,
limitation of this type of option is its requirement for an upfront
premium payment, and a concessionaire is likely to shy away from
additional monetary requirements. A collar option, which is a combination
of a put and call option, not only overcomes this barrier but it also
provides other benefits. Modifications to the basic collar's structure can
redistribute downside losses and upside profits to fulfil stakeholders'
needs and thus improve the effectiveness of risk management. The terms,
applicability and limitations of a collar option are discussed, and a
numerical example is developed to illustrate how to determine the strike
prices of a collar option.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1057-1069
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Infrastructure, public-private partnerships, real options, revenue risk, risk management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.506645
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.506645
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1057-1069
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fredrik Nordin
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Nordin
Author-Name: Christina Oberg
Author-X-Name-First: Christina
Author-X-Name-Last: Oberg
Author-Name: Beata Kollberg
Author-X-Name-First: Beata
Author-X-Name-Last: Kollberg
Author-Name: Tomas Nord
Author-X-Name-First: Tomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Nord
Title: Building a new supply chain position: an exploratory study of companies in the timber housing industry
Abstract:
Innovation is an important source of growth for many companies. It is
also challenging, as it may require that the companies build a new
position in the supply chain. The literature is devoid of analysis of
different ways to build such positions in the construction industry. The
purpose here is to explore the challenges involved in implementing
innovations that require companies to establish new positions in a
construction supply chain. Three in-depth case studies in the Swedish
timber housing industry illustrate different challenges that arise with
the different modes of repositioning of organic growth, collaboration and
acquisition, and with moving either backward or forward in the supply
chain. Organic growth is a slow process that prevents companies from
taking a first-mover advantage. Acquisitions can involve difficulties with
exploiting acquired competences. Collaboration brings the risks of
diversity of interests and transient solutions. Furthermore, and as shown
in the cases studied, challenges are associated with pre-existing
competencies and relationships, with technology-oriented companies facing
customer-related difficulties and market-oriented companies mainly facing
ones involving technological solutions. The construction industry's
idiosyncrasies amplify these challenges, as its fragmentation makes it
difficult to connect with external companies at new positions. Stronger
ties with business partners are likely to enable construction companies to
exploit more easily innovations that require repositioning in the supply
chain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1071-1083
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Innovation, supply chain management, case study, Sweden,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.494680
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1071-1083
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Title: The rhythms of project life: a longitudinal analysis of work hours and work-life experiences in construction
Abstract:
A diary data collection method was used to collect data from
project-based construction workers in a large civil engineering
construction project in Melbourne, Australia. Data capturing the number of
hours worked, satisfaction with work-life balance and capacity to complete
required tasks at work and at home were collected for 21 consecutive
weeks. A strong correlation was found between hours worked each week and
participants' work-life experiences. Data were subjected to time series
modelling procedures and weekly work hours were found to significantly
predict participants' capacity to complete tasks at work and at home, but
not their satisfaction with work-life balance. The impact of work leading
up to a major project milestone was found to increase the predictive
capacity of the time series models, indicating that project events have a
significant impact upon the work-life experiences of project-based
workers. The period of intense work prior to the milestone (the opening of
a new ramp on to an operating freeway) contributed significantly to an
immediate reduction in capacity to complete tasks at home. Further time
series modelling revealed that recovery opportunities associated with
workers taking a short, temporary break from work can also contribute to
improved work-life balance. It is proposed that construction organizations
use the naturally fluctuating workloads implicit in project work to
'build' recovery opportunities into project schedules.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1085-1098
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Work hours, work-family balance, diary studies, project work,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.480977
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Title: Properties of group safety climate in construction: the development and evaluation of a typology
Abstract:
A safety climate survey was conducted in three Australian construction
industry organizations. Workers' perceptions of their supervisors' safety
response (SSR) and co-workers' safety response (CSR) were measured as
facets of group safety climate. A two-dimensional schema was developed
based upon the strength and the level of group safety climate. The
resulting framework was used to position the 40 workgroups included in the
sample within one of four group safety climate types. A non-parametric
Kruskal Wallis test revealed that workgroups in which members share a
strong consensus that co-workers should treat safety as a priority had a
significantly lower injury frequency rate than other workgroups in the
sample. While no significant differences between the injury frequency
rates of workgroups positioned in the four safety climate types were found
for the other facets of group safety climate, workgroups with strong and
high (i.e. strongly supportive) safety climates related to supervisors'
safety expectations and co-workers' actual safety behaviour reported
injury frequency rates on average two-thirds the magnitude of the
remaining workgroups in the sample. Although limited by the reliance on
retrospective and insensitive measurement for the dependent variable (i.e.
injury frequency rates), the research provides preliminary evidence for
the importance of considering both the strength and level of group safety
climates in the construction industry. Future research should seek to
replicate and extend this research by examining the antecedents of group
safety climate strength and level in the construction context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1099-1112
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Group safety climate, supervisors' safety response, co-workers' safety response, climate strength, climate level,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.501807
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Douglas Gransberg
Author-X-Name-First: Douglas
Author-X-Name-Last: Gransberg
Title: Life Cycle Costing for Engineers
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1113-1114
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.508500
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.508500
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1113-1114
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Managing Construction Projects (2nd edition)
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1115-1116
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.513397
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.513397
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1115-1116
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Twyford
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Twyford
Title: Building Law Encyclopaedia
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1117-1117
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.517775
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1117-1117
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Alexander
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Alexander
Title: Rebuilding after Disasters: From Emergency to Sustainability
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1117-1119
Issue: 10
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.517776
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.517776
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:10:p:1117-1119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Jan Brochner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brochner
Title: Editorial: service-led construction projects
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1123-1129
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.532591
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1123-1129
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Neil Alderman
Author-X-Name-First: Neil
Author-X-Name-Last: Alderman
Author-Name: Chris Ivory
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Ivory
Title: Service-led projects: understanding the meta-project context
Abstract:
The service-led project is driven by the demand for long-term service
provision based on the output of a conventional capital good. The project
management implications of the extended timeframe for such projects are
considered and the added risks and uncertainties associated with planning
for an unknown future business environment. Detailed case studies of three
service-led engineering projects in the context of port facilities,
high-speed trains and sludge treatment are examined. The findings indicate
that service-led projects exist within the context of a meta-project that
encompasses a consideration of critical activities beyond the normal remit
of the project manager. Aligning project stakeholders around a vision for
the meta-project becomes a key task in the successful management of the
service-led project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1131-1143
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Service-led projects, networks, integration, project management, meta-project vision,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.506644
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1131-1143
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Lind
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Lind
Author-Name: Lena Borg
Author-X-Name-First: Lena
Author-X-Name-Last: Borg
Title: Service-led construction: is it really the future?
Abstract:
In recent years it has been argued that bundling construction with
operation/maintenance can increase profits in the construction sector.
This idea is critically evaluated using different theoretical frameworks
and the main points are: innovative organizational models only lead to
higher profits in the short run, unless the firm can reduce long-run
competition. Many firms should however be able to bundle construction and
maintenance. Several arguments have been put forward for the proposition
that bundling is more efficient, but none of them are very strong.
Knowledge about the construction phase is difficult to transfer also
within firms, and it is not clear how a construction firm can build up
knowledge of the long-run effects of different construction alternatives.
A long-run contract for certain services is—just as a construction
contract—difficult to write in a way that does not lead to
surprises and future problems, so the gain from this perspective is not
clear. The initiative for bundling came from the public sector; it was not
an innovation from the private sector looking for higher profits. The
motives for the public sector seem more related to financing and risk for
cost overruns and delays. Taking over risk leads to higher profits, but
this is just compensation for the risk and nothing more, if it is a
competitive market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1145-1153
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Service-led construction, bundling, PPP, PFI,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.529452
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.529452
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1145-1153
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jens Roehrich
Author-X-Name-First: Jens
Author-X-Name-Last: Roehrich
Author-Name: Michael Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: Towards a model of governance in complex (product-service) inter-organizational systems
Abstract:
Traditional business models coped with the complexity inherent in buying
complex capital assets that will be operated and maintained over many
years by a division of labour based on subsets of the value chain.
Recently, customers in a wide range of sectors are not buying subcontract
production or construction capacity but procuring business 'solutions'. As
a result, inter-organizational interactions are changing in terms of their
scale, scope and dynamic, requiring us to reconsider those mechanisms that
coordinate inter-organizational behaviour. Correspondingly, a conceptual
model is developed that explores how contractual and relational mechanisms
interact across different levels of analysis and over time. Reflecting on
the implications of the model highlights how contractual and relational
governance mechanisms are distinct but inseparable parts of a governance
continuum, involving multi-level interactions and transitions. Given that
these interactions/transitions influence the behaviour of exchange
partners and impact on the effectiveness of the overall governance mix,
these (albeit conceptual) insights should be beneficial to academics,
practitioners and policy makers involved in complex product-service
systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1155-1164
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Product-service systems, inter-organizational governance, contracts, trust, complexity,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003762249
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003762249
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1155-1164
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Hartmann
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartmann
Author-Name: Andrew Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Author-Name: Lars Frederiksen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Frederiksen
Title: Learning to deliver service-enhanced public infrastructure: balancing contractual and relational capabilities
Abstract:
Public agencies in construction increasingly involve the private sector
in the provision of various public goods and services. With the extension
of private sector involvement, public agencies are confronted with the
need to acquire new capabilities. The results of two comparative case
studies from the UK and the Netherlands show that the level and focus of
capability learning change over time. Public agencies follow different
learning trajectories and need to address the dynamic character of the
learning in order to successfully employ (a) contractual and (b)
relational capabilities in their exchange relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1165-1175
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Capability building, learning trajectory, public agency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521942
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.521942
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1165-1175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mieke Hoezen
Author-X-Name-First: Mieke
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoezen
Author-Name: John van Rutten
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: van Rutten
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Geert Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Title: Towards better customized service-led contracts through the competitive dialogue procedure
Abstract:
Recently, for the procurement of complex contracts the European
Commission (EC) has developed the competitive dialogue (CD) procedure, a
procurement system aimed at aligning the complex demands of principals
with the possible solutions of contractors. The major question is how, in
the practice of procuring service-led contracts by the CD procedure, will
the dialogue conversations be affected by tension between the CD
procedure's principles of transparency and confidentiality? A single case
study of a large infrastructural project procured through the CD procedure
has been conducted to find an answer to this question. It is concluded
that the dialogue offered by the CD procedure in the Dutch Second Coen
Tunnel project helped to align the complex demands with the several
available solutions without harming the confidentiality principle or
stimulating cherry picking. The procedure could be improved by the
provision of standardized documents and actual, adequate and improved
information about the project context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1177-1186
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Contractor selection, infrastructure, procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.506517
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1177-1186
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ad Straub
Author-X-Name-First: Ad
Author-X-Name-Last: Straub
Title: Competences of maintenance service suppliers servicing end-customers
Abstract:
Service-led construction projects imply major changes in methods and work
processes for contractors and a need to reorganize the contracting
company. A major change within a performance-based approach is that
contractors act as maintenance-engineering consultants to clients and as
service providers to end-customers. Offering new services demands
additional resources, skills and competences of contractors. In
performance-based maintenance partnerships contractors have the
responsibility for the agreed performance of building components and
clients' and end-customers' satisfaction during the entire contract period
by handling planned and reactive maintenance. End-customers are
particularly concerned with reactive or daily maintenance. Satisfaction is
affected by the result of maintenance and especially the maintenance
service delivery process. Maintenance contractors need knowledge about
concepts such as whole-life costing, key performance indicators and
service levels, and need communication and empathy skills, especially in
dealing with end-customers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1187-1195
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Competences, end-customers, maintenance, performance-based projects, service delivery,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.500672
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1187-1195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: Understanding the Construction Client
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1197-1198
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446191003702450
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446191003702450
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1197-1198
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Scott Fernie
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Fernie
Title: Clients Driving Innovation
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1198-1199
Issue: 11
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.509401
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.509401
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:11:p:1198-1199
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed El-Sheikh
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Sheikh
Author-Name: Stephen Pryke
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Pryke
Title: Network gaps and project success
Abstract:
Project success and client satisfaction are results of collaborative
actions by project actors throughout the entire project life cycle. One
principal factor in project success is the application of effective
management tools. Gap analysis helps to achieve client satisfaction.
However, gap analysis is unable to deal with the organic nature of
information exchange between project actors. Social network analysis (SNA)
enables the identification and analysis of information exchange and
communication patterns in synergy with projects. Two case studies were
carried out to identify gaps in the current linear project management
approach. Gap analysis and SNA were used to analyse each project and to
examine the research hypothesis on the use of SNA to identify network
management gaps in projects. The gap analysis showed gaps of execution and
conformance, which were confirmed by SNA. There was little evidence of
project governance outside the project contractual arrangements during
project execution. The current application approach of different
management tools is limited in providing a whole-project view. The
combined application of gap analysis and SNA can help practitioners to
exceed client expectations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1205-1217
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Client satisfaction, gap analysis, project management, social network analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.506643
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.506643
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1205-1217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patrick Zou
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Zou
Author-Name: Jie Li
Author-X-Name-First: Jie
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Risk identification and assessment in subway projects: case study of Nanjing Subway Line 2
Abstract:
Underground subways are constructed in major cities across China to
overcome the transportation problems in the urbanization process. The aim
is to develop a comprehensive risk checklist associated with subway
projects and a methodology to assess the risks at the early stage of a
project. Based on the analysis of accidents that have happened in previous
projects, a review of current literature and the results of interviews, a
comprehensive risk checklist was developed, followed by proposing a risk
analysis methodology using fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP). Then
the Nanjing Subway Line 2 project was analysed using the proposed risk
checklist and fuzzy AHP method. The data were obtained through interviews
and two rounds of questionnaire surveys with the personnel directly
involved in the Nanjing Subway Line 2 project. The results of risk
identification and assessment are presented and their managerial
implications are discussed. The information presented here should be
relevant to both academics and practitioners in the field of subway
project management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1219-1238
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Subway project, risk identification, risk checklist, risk assessment, fuzzy analytical hierarchy process,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.519781
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1219-1238
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nakhon Kokkaew
Author-X-Name-First: Nakhon
Author-X-Name-Last: Kokkaew
Author-Name: Nicola Chiara
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Chiara
Title: Modelling completion risk using stochastic critical path-envelope method: a BOT highway project application
Abstract:
In integrated project delivery methods such as build-operate-transfer
(BOT), a thorough financial risk analysis model should incorporate
completion risk analysis into operation risk analysis as the timing of
financial events such as refinancing and debt servicing depend on the
construction completion date. During construction, project managers always
have opportunities to react to negative events and to take corrective
actions whenever possible to recover late-running schedules. These
opportunities to react are 'real options' embedded in the construction
process. However, current models of completion risk analysis ignore this
feature of project managers. A reliable construction completion risk model
for project feasibility studies should capture a manager's option to react
to unforeseen, negative events. A novel approach for modelling
construction completion risk analysis is developed by combining stochastic
critical path method with the envelope method (SCP-EM). The SCP-EM
approach can model the option-like feature of management feedback
reactions in a straightforward fashion. The proposed approach, if applied
correctly during the project feasibility study stage, enhances the project
finance risk model by helping analysts properly evaluate financial risk
arising from completion delay.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1239-1254
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Monte Carlo simulation, build-operate-transfer, risk analysis, project scheduling, envelope method,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521755
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.521755
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1239-1254
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S. Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Forecasting construction tender price index in Hong Kong using vector error correction model
Abstract:
Reliable short- to medium-term prediction of the tender price index (TPI)
is crucial to construction stakeholders, and this has stimulated the
interest of the research community to seek a more analytical method for
TPI forecast. The purpose of this study is to establish an econometric
model for accurately predicting the tender price movements based on a
group of associated financial and macroeconomic variables. Applying
Johansen's method for multivariate cointegration analysis, the tender
price was found to be cointegrated with the gross domestic product,
construction output and building cost. A vector error correction (VEC)
model imposing the cointegration restriction was then developed for the
purpose of forecasting. The model was verified against various diagnostic
statistical criteria and compared with the Box-Jenkins and regression
models. With a mean absolute percentage error for a three-year ahead
forecast at 2.9% level, the developed VEC model outperforms the
Box-Jenkins and regression models, and is proven to be efficient and
reliable in forecasting the short- to medium-term tender price movements.
The model can assist estimators to predict the TPI pattern in advance, and
it can also help the public sector in planning for the construction
workload to improve the stability of the construction market. Although the
VEC model developed focuses on the Hong Kong construction market, the
econometric technique can be applied to modelling other economic
variables.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1255-1268
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Cost estimate, econometric modelling, tender price index, vector error correction model, forecast,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.487536
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.487536
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1255-1268
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yinggang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Yinggang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Robert Glover
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Glover
Author-Name: Sharam Vazari
Author-X-Name-First: Sharam
Author-X-Name-Last: Vazari
Title: Analysis of the benefits and costs of construction craft training in the United States based on expert perceptions and industry data
Abstract:
The case for or against craft training in construction from the
perspective of constructors, owners, governments, workers, and other
stakeholders is not completely clear, despite several studies to date. The
business case for investing in construction craft training is examined
from the employer's perspective on a construction project. A survey of 93
training directors and construction managers from throughout the US
construction industry was used to collect quantitative estimates regarding
craft training benefits and learning rates. Using these data, a benefit to
cost ratio was calculated for a hypothetical typical industrial project
(the CII model plant). According to the analyses, the estimated benefit to
cost ratios range from 1.5:1 to 3.0:1. While these ratios are based on
expert opinion, the results were triangulated with actual data from
company training and project performance records as well as results from
other research studies. The estimated benefit to cost ratios on the
study's hypothetical industrial project are sensitive to the craft
workers' employment duration, assuming that the training is provided by a
single employer. Training durations are likely to be longer under a
'community training' model in which firms collaborate to sponsor training
and workers have greater opportunities to continue in their training
programme as they move from firm to firm. Nevertheless, the results
contribute to a growing body of evidence that an investment in craft
training is economically attractive for an employer, even over a typical
project life cycle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1269-1285
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Workforce, labour, training,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.524238
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.524238
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1269-1285
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiaoling Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaoling
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Yuzhe Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Yuzhe
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Kunhui Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhui
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Title: A regional construction R&D evaluation system for China
Abstract:
Expenditure on R&D in China's construction industry has been relatively
low in comparison with many developed countries for a number of
years—a situation considered to be a major barrier to the
industry's competitiveness in general and unsatisfactory as regards
industry development of the 31 regions involved. A major problem with this
is the lack of a sufficiently sophisticated method of objectively
evaluating R&D activity in what are quite complex circumstances
considering the size and regional differences that exist in this part of
the world. A regional construction R&D evaluation system (RCRES) is
presented, aimed at rectifying the situation. This is based on 12
indicators drawn from the Chinese Government's R&D Inventory of Resources
in consultation with a small group of experts in the field, and further
factor analysed into three groups. From this, the required evaluation is
obtained by a simple formula. Examination of the results provides a
ranking list of the R&D performance of each of the 31 regions, indicating
a general disproportion between coastal and inland regions and
highlighting regions receiving special emphasis or currently lacking in
development. The understanding on this is vital for the future of China's
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1287-1300
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: China, construction industry, factor analysis, research and development,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.508501
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.508501
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1287-1300
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Najimu Saka
Author-X-Name-First: Najimu
Author-X-Name-Last: Saka
Author-Name: John Lowe
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Lowe
Title: The impact of the petroleum sector on the output of the Nigerian construction sector
Abstract:
The petroleum sector plays an important role in the Nigerian economy, as
it is the single largest revenue earner of the country and one of the
largest contributors to the gross domestic product (GDP). This study
estimated the impact of petroleum and gas revenue on the performance of
the construction sector using a polynomial distributed lag model. We
extracted data on the petroleum and gas sector (PGS), the GDP and
construction sector output (CNS) for this study from the Central Bank of
Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin. The analysis employed econometric
methodology, which includes testing for stationarity and co-integration as
well as estimating the distributed lag model. The result shows that the
petroleum and gas revenue significantly affected construction output for
three consecutive years starting from their year of occurrence. The study
concluded that the PGS has a far-reaching impact on the growth and
development of the construction sector. It therefore recommends supporting
the channelling of funds from the petroleum sector into development of
constructed facilities infrastructure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1301-1312
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Construction sector, gross domestic product, econometrics, Nigeria,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.509402
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.509402
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1301-1312
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rebecca Jane Loudoun
Author-X-Name-First: Rebecca
Author-X-Name-Last: Jane Loudoun
Title: Injuries sustained by young males in construction during day and night work
Abstract:
The increased participation of young workers in the construction industry
is matched by a growing realization of the vulnerability of these workers
in terms of occupational injury and disease. The impact of organizational
issues on injury rates for young workers is examined. This is an
under-researched area where physical and psychological development
influences have traditionally dominated. Data from the Australian Bureau
of Statistics on labour force participation and work hours and data from
the Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit on patients presenting at hospital
emergency departments were used to examine incidence and severity of
injuries sustained by young workers in construction on different shifts.
Analyses indicated a different pattern of injury for young workers and
workers outside this age category. Young workers were consistently more
likely to be injured than all other workers, and this injury rate ratio
increased significantly on night shift, suggesting that injury prevention
strategies should consider the temporal pattern of work for young workers
in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1313-1320
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Injury, labour markets, occupational health and safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521760
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.521760
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1313-1320
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bee-Lan Oo
Author-X-Name-First: Bee-Lan
Author-X-Name-Last: Oo
Author-Name: Derek Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Title: Competitor analysis in construction bidding
Abstract:
Bidding strategies vary from contractor to contractor, each of which will
have different degrees of sensitivity towards the factors affecting their
bidding decisions. A competitor analysis using a linear mixed model is
proposed for use by contractors as part of a more informed approach in
identifying key competitors, and as a basis for formulating bidding
strategies. The competitiveness between bids is examined according to: (i)
project size, (ii) work sector; (iii) work nature; and (iv) number of
bidders. The model was tested empirically by application to a bidding
dataset obtained from a large Hong Kong contractor. Allowing for different
degrees of sensitivity towards the four bidding variables across competing
contractors (i.e. with the model parameters that varied across competing
contractors), the results indicate that competitiveness in bidding of this
contractor is generally greater than the majority of its competitors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1321-1329
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
Keywords: Bidding, competitor analysis, competitiveness,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.520721
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1321-1329
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Oloke
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oloke
Title: Developing a Safety and Health Program
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1331-1331
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.519780
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.519780
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1331-1331
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John-Paris Pantouvakis
Author-X-Name-First: John-Paris
Author-X-Name-Last: Pantouvakis
Title: Collaborative Construction Information Management
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1331-1333
Issue: 12
Volume: 28
Year: 2010
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.518972
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.518972
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:28:y:2010:i:12:p:1331-1333
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Titus Kivaa Mbiti
Author-X-Name-First: Titus Kivaa
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbiti
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Author-Name: Ron Wakefield
Author-X-Name-First: Ron
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakefield
Author-Name: Ric Lombardo
Author-X-Name-First: Ric
Author-X-Name-Last: Lombardo
Title: System archetypes underlying the problematic behaviour of construction activity in Kenya
Abstract:
Construction activity in Kenya fluctuates excessively and grows very
slowly. This feature causes adverse effects on the construction industry.
When a drastic fall in construction activity occurs, the industry loses
its production capacity; manpower moves to other industries in the country
and abroad and many construction firms go bankrupt. During recovery, the
shortage of contractors leads to increase in tender prices and sometimes
poor quality work. These problems are best understood by modelling the
construction industry as a system, because the systems approach to problem
resolution involves an overarching study of the forces that give rise to
the problems while simultaneously avoiding the distractions arising from
excessive scrutiny of the problems themselves. In this paper, a system
dynamics study of the construction industry of Kenya is presented. The
system archetypes underlying the problematic behaviour of the industry are
observed to be the balancing process with a delay phenomenon, coupled with
the limits to growth phenomenon. It is recommended that (1) regulation of
the response of the industry to changes in demand for its services; and
(2) expansion of the construction market, could minimize fluctuations in
construction activity and foster continual growth of the activity in
Kenya.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-13
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Construction industry, construction output, system dynamics, system archetypes, Kenya,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.529924
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:3-13
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jin Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Jin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: Gary Soo
Author-X-Name-First: Gary
Author-X-Name-Last: Soo
Title: Dubious benefits from future exchange: an explanation of payment arrears from 'continuing clients' in Mainland China
Abstract:
Clients and contractors are frequently advised to adopt a collaborative
attitude and approach in construction projects in general, with
'continuing clients', i.e. clients with continuous large projects
portfolios, expected to be in the forefront of such initiatives. Although
such a governance approach has been argued to be beneficial in
construction transactions, it is not uncommon to hear contractors
complaining that clients do not fulfil their payment obligations. For
example, in Mainland China, a large proportion of deliberate payment
arrears are from 'continuing clients'. Gametric models are used in this
research to show that three prerequisites are needed for inducing
continuing clients to be cooperative. Empirical evidence from legislation
and a questionnaire survey indicates that these preconditions are not
fulfilled in Mainland China. Prevalent institutional arrangements,
differentials in appreciation of the value of relationships, and opaque
payment track records are found to contribute to continuing clients'
deviation from the often advocated amicable approaches. Thus, transaction
attributes seem to only suggest a theoretically optimal governance
structure from the perspective of transaction costs, but other factors may
also substantially influence parties' calculation and choice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 15-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Payment arrears, opportunism, collaboration, transaction cost, game theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521757
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:15-23
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Weizhuo Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weizhuo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Thomas Olofsson
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Olofsson
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Title: A lean-agile model of homebuilders' production systems
Abstract:
A lean-agile model of homebuilders' production systems is proposed in
this research. Value stream mapping is utilized to clarify the proposed
lean-agile model, in which pull and Kanban are used to ensure smooth
production upstream of the de-coupling point, while fluctuating market
demands in terms of variety of homes and variability of volumes are
managed by the agile process downstream of the de-coupling point. The
de-coupling point is used to provide components to downstream agile
process and shield upstream smooth production from market fluctuations. A
simulation model is developed to evaluate and validate the effectiveness
of the proposed lean-agile model. Simulation experiments show that the
lean-agile model prevents the accumulation of high inventory levels and
thus provides better customization opportunities for clients compared to
even-flow-construction. It also provides a more stable process with
shorter cycle times compared to sales-driven production. The proposed
lean-agile model offers new possibilities for homebuilders to manage the
balance between meeting fluctuating market demands and stabilizing the
production system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-35
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Agile, housing construction, lean, simulation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.531027
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:25-35
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yan Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Yan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Author-Name: Suzanne Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Suzanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Author-Name: Regan Potangaroa
Author-X-Name-First: Regan
Author-X-Name-Last: Potangaroa
Author-Name: Erica Seville
Author-X-Name-First: Erica
Author-X-Name-Last: Seville
Title: Identifying factors affecting resource availability for post-disaster reconstruction: a case study in China
Abstract:
The availability of resources allows for the rapid and cost-effective
delivery of a construction project. For rebuilding programmes after a
disaster, the need for better understanding of factors affecting resource
availability and their potential impacts on resourcing outcomes can be of
crucial importance to effective reconstruction performance. Drawing on an
empirical survey in China following the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, the
critical factors affecting resource availability for post-quake
reconstruction of housing are identified. Resource availability in a
post-disaster situation is not only associated with (1) project-related
factors such as quantity of resources required, project schedule, project
resourcing plan, and resource procurement lead time; and (2) factors
related to the reconstruction practitioners, including competency of
resourcing manager and qualification of contractor; but is also related to
(3) factors external to reconstruction projects including legislation and
policy, general economic environment, and resource transportation cost and
method. To address these factors, a multi-sector approach is needed for
reconstruction decision makers and practitioners. A planned procurement
strategy in the implementing contractors, a range of training initiatives
for small and medium businesses, along with augmented regulatory, economic
and transport infrastructure systems are likely to improve resource
availability for post-disaster rebuilding projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 37-48
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Disasters, post-disaster reconstruction, resource availability, construction projects, China,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521761
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:37-48
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdul-Rashid Abdul-Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul-Rashid
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Aziz
Author-Name: David Pengiran Ngau
Author-X-Name-First: David Pengiran
Author-X-Name-Last: Ngau
Author-Name: Yoke Mui Lim
Author-X-Name-First: Yoke Mui
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Author-Name: Azlan Raofuddin Nuruddin
Author-X-Name-First: Azlan Raofuddin
Author-X-Name-Last: Nuruddin
Title: Internationalization of Malaysian quantity surveying firms: exploring the best fit models
Abstract:
The internationalization of services has been largely under-researched,
more so in respect of developing countries. In light of this, the various
models on firm internationalization were tested to determine which of them
best fits the internationalization of Malaysian quantity surveying (QS)
firms. The models were a combination of the old and more recent. In doing
so, the 'what', 'where', 'how', 'which' and 'why' of the subject matter
were addressed. Data were collected using the mixed method, combining a
postal questionnaire survey, follow-up interviews and secondary data. The
findings point to certain models (i.e. liability of foreignness concept,
network theory, internalization theory and international entrepreneurship)
having a good fit with the subject matter in comparison to others (i.e.
resource-based theory, eclectic paradigm, stage growth theory and 'born
global'). Based on the findings and in view of Malaysia's impending
liberalization of services by 2012, certain recommendations are made for
those firms that are still insular in orientation, notably the necessity
for top management to have the internationalization drive and business
networks they should leverage on. Malaysia's export promotion agencies
must also have targeted efforts to increase the export of QS services.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 49-58
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: International business, models, quantity surveying, Malaysia,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.519782
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Seli-super-˙n Gundes
Author-X-Name-First: Seli-super-˙n
Author-X-Name-Last: Gundes
Title: Exploring the dynamics of the Turkish construction industry using input-output analysis
Abstract:
Construction is commonly regarded as an important industry in economic
policy making owing to its strong interactions with other sectors in the
economy. Using six national input-output (IO) tables compiled to date and
economic data for the period between 1969 and 2006, the behaviour of the
Turkish construction sector and its relationships to investment, income
and to other sectors in the economy are examined. Analysis reveals that
the construction industry is losing its propulsive role and that it tends
to exaggerate the fluctuations of the economy. The examination of lead and
lag times between changes in GNP, construction activity and investments
show that public sector spending cuts, in particular, have significant
effects on the amplitude and the timing of slumps of the industry. The
analysis of linkage indicators indicates that for the whole period under
consideration the construction industry has high linkages with only one
other industry. Thus the 'leading' role it plays in the economy is
questioned.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 59-68
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Construction sector, input-output analysis, backward linkage, forward linkage, Turkey,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.529925
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:59-68
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Title: A pilot study of client complexity, emergent requirements and stakeholder perceptions of project success
Abstract:
Construction industry reliance on performance metrics fixed at the
project outset is being superseded by increasing use of emergent client
judgments to characterize success. Clients may still consider a project
that fails to meet formalized time, cost and performance goals successful
if it satisfies emergent requirements not understood during initial
briefing. Construction practitioners do not routinely recognize that
client awareness of requirements improves as projects progress. Internal
conflict among the client stakeholders and their reflections on the
emerging project solution help client stakeholders to better understand
their needs. Dissatisfaction results when these emergent requirements are
not acknowledged. The need for practitioners to recognize and respond to
these issues is explored by a paradigmatic case study of an office
relocation and refurbishment project. The role of the 'project sponsor' as
a synthesizer of client requirements and reflections on the emerging
solution was observed to be subverted by stakeholders in a client body who
found their emergent requirements were not acknowledged by construction
practitioners. By characterizing the harmful effect of pluralistic client
complexity and emergent requirements on perceptions of project success,
the rationale for a revised project sponsor role to better address these
influences on perceptions of project success is contributed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 69-82
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Case study, client requirements, complexity, project sponsor, stakeholder,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.519399
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:69-82
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Brown
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Brown
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Subjectively construed identities and discourse: towards a research agenda for construction management
Abstract:
Identity issues are under-explored in construction management. We provide
a brief introduction to the organization studies literature on
subjectively construed identities, focusing on discourse, agency,
relations of power and identity work. The construction management
literature is investigated in order to examine identity concerns as they
relate to construction managers centred on (1) professionalism; (2)
ethics; (3) relational aspects of self-identity; (4) competence, knowledge
and tools; and (5) national culture. Identity, we argue, is a key
performance issue, and needs to be accounted for in explanations of the
success and failure of projects. Our overriding concern is to raise
identity issues in order to demonstrate their importance to researchers in
construction management and to spark debate. The purpose of this work is
not to provide answers or to propose prescriptive models, but to explore
ideas, raise awareness and to generate questions for further programmatic
research. To this end, we promote empirical work and theorizing by
outlining elements of a research agenda which argues that 'identity' is a
potentially generative theme for scholars in construction management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 83-95
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Identity, discourse, construction manager, performance, research agenda,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.531028
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:83-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Onur Dursun
Author-X-Name-First: Onur
Author-X-Name-Last: Dursun
Author-Name: Christian Stoy
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Stoy
Title: Time-cost relationship of building projects: statistical adequacy of categorization with respect to project location
Abstract:
Construction duration is one of the key elements to determine the success
of a project. Several models have been developed to provide precise
predictions of construction duration. The datasets in previous studies
comprise observations from particular countries. This precludes
examination of the role of project location at the country level for
modelling construction duration. The aim, therefore, is to test the
statistical adequacy of categorizing projects with respect to their
locations for modelling construction duration. A formal procedure to
evaluate the adequacy of categorizing observations is also presented. It
is intended to contribute to the epistemology of modelling construction
duration. The dataset was generated from a global client. It contains
information on 246 projects from 25 different countries. This creates a
categorical variable for location. Bromilow's time-cost model is chosen to
assess the adequacy of this categorization. A full model with indicator
and interaction variables is compared to a restricted one. Parameter
estimation was performed according to the ordinary least squares method.
F-statistics are calculated and the probability of the value is
significant. The results show that two distinct groups with substantial
changes in model parameters exist in the dataset. It is also noted that
conclusions are valid over the selected population.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-106
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Bromilow's time-cost model, categorization, project location, F-ratio,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.528437
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:97-106
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Landin
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Landin
Title: Construction Stakeholder Management
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 107-107
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.529923
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.529923
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:1:p:107-107
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yu-Hsiu Hung
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Hsiu
Author-X-Name-Last: Hung
Author-Name: Tonya Smith-Jackson
Author-X-Name-First: Tonya
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith-Jackson
Author-Name: Woodrow Winchester
Author-X-Name-First: Woodrow
Author-X-Name-Last: Winchester
Title: Use of attitude congruence to identify safety interventions for small residential builders
Abstract:
The construction industry has experienced high numbers of occupational
injuries and fatalities over the years. To address this issue, differences
in safety attitudes and behaviours were explored among construction
workers, first-line supervisors, and project managers in small residential
construction companies with respect to recommendations for safety
interventions. A triangulation design consisting of observation
(shadowing), subjective quantitative (questionnaire), and subjective
qualitative (interview) methods was used to obtain different but
complementary data on the same safety challenges. Shadowing was utilized
to explore onsite safety problems and/or risky behaviours resulting from
safety attitudinal discrepancies among the three groups. Questionnaires
were administered to identify salient themes for the observed practices.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the causes of the
observed safety problems. Results revealed that first-line supervisors did
not enforce safety rules strictly or consistently, and that significant
differences in safety attitudes and risk perceptions were observed among
the three groups. Results also support a tendency among subcontractors to
practise risky behaviours, even though they generally articulated a desire
to avoid injuries. The recommended interventions include holding regular
safety meetings between managers and workers, implementing informal
training to supplement formal training, and closely examining and
reviewing the appropriateness of health and safety policies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 113-130
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Safety, small business,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521758
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:113-130
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Melissa Teo
Author-X-Name-First: Melissa
Author-X-Name-Last: Teo
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Community-based protest against construction projects: a case study of movement continuity
Abstract:
Community-based activism against proposed construction projects is
growing. Many protests are poorly managed and escalate into long-term and
sometimes acrimonious disputes which damage communities, firms and the
construction industry as a whole. Using a thematic storytelling approach
which draws on ethnographic method, within a single case study framework,
new insights into the social forces that shape and sustain community-based
protest against construction projects are provided. A conceptual model of
protest movement continuity is presented which highlights the factors that
sustain protest continuity over time. The model illustrates how social
contagion leads to common community perceptions of development risk and
opportunity, to a positive internalization of collective values and
identity, to a strategic utilization of social capital and an awareness of
the need to manage the emotional dynamics of protest through mechanisms
such as symbolic artefacts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-144
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Protest, construction project, community relations, contagion, social networks,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.535545
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:131-144
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jing Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Jing
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: Geoffrey Qiping Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Geoffrey Qiping
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Lynda Bourne
Author-X-Name-First: Lynda
Author-X-Name-Last: Bourne
Author-Name: Christabel Man-Fong Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Christabel Man-Fong
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Xiaolong Xue
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaolong
Author-X-Name-Last: Xue
Title: A typology of operational approaches for stakeholder analysis and engagement
Abstract:
Stakeholder analysis and engagement are the main tasks in stakeholder
management. To identify operational approaches for stakeholder analysis
and engagement, six interviews and a questionnaire survey were conducted
in Hong Kong, and an additional 15 interviews were held in Australia. The
main finding is a typology of practical approaches for practitioners in
construction. A total of 30 approaches are comprised in the typology, and
they are classified by application. To test the usefulness of the
typology, action research is applied to two real-life projects in
Australia. The implication is that the selection of the approaches is an
art and a contingency approach as well, requiring practitioners'
judgments. Each approach has its strengths and limitations, so the most
appropriate way for effective stakeholder management is to use a
combination of elements from each approach as circumstances dictate. This
study can serve as a reference for the systematic consideration of the
project management team about the operational approaches for stakeholder
management in construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 145-162
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Stakeholder analysis, stakeholder engagement, contingency,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521759
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:145-162
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yong-Woo Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Yong-Woo
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Sang-Chul Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Sang-Chul
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Title: Cost analysis of information technology-assisted quality inspection using activity-based costing
Abstract:
One of the critical factors in quality control is the efficient
management of quality field inspections. A method was developed to assess
the cost impact of process improvements in construction jobsite
management. Through the development of a prototype quality inspection
system together with project database and mobile technology, the
efficiency of a quality inspection system as a pilot study is examined. A
time-driven activity-based costing (ABC) is used in evaluating the
quantifying process costs attributable to the implementation of a new
field inspection system. Inspection costs were reduced when the current
inspection process is replaced by a new inspection prototype process using
a project database and mobile technology. The cost analysis results also
show that a new approach (1) identifies the inspection activities before
and after the re-engineering process; (2) computes the cost driver rate
before and after the re-engineering process; and (3) enables the
performance of the scenario analysis by manipulating the volume of cost
drivers under different scenarios.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 163-172
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Activity-based costing, cost analysis, personal digital assistant, quality inspection,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.538708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:163-172
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Martin Tuuli
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuuli
Title: The role of corporate citizenship values in promoting corporate social performance: towards a conceptual model and a research agenda
Abstract:
Performance of corporations, under the stakeholder approach, is not
measured in financial terms only; modern corporations have significant
responsibilities beyond those to their shareholders. A value-laden concept
such as sustainable construction, which emerges from a multi-stakeholder
perspective, involves participation of the whole supply chain and
incorporates the notion of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Creating
sustainable habitats has societal as well as economic implications. While
the UK government's Department of Trade and Industry is promoting CSR as a
business contribution to sustainable development, many have argued that
corporate citizenship takes shape at the point of government failure in
the facilitation of citizen's rights. Recent research demonstrates varying
degrees of corporate social performance (CSP) in different sectors and
there are differing relationships between CSP and innovation in the real
estate and construction sectors. A conceptual model linking corporate
citizenship values (CCV) and CSP through corporate behaviour (BCORP) from
a CSR and stakeholder theory perspective is developed. The proposed model
presents avenues for future research and represents a significant first
step towards modelling the important link between CCV and CSP.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 173-183
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Corporate social performance, corporate social responsibility, stakeholder theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.538706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:173-183
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark John Gannon
Author-X-Name-First: Mark John
Author-X-Name-Last: Gannon
Author-Name: Nigel John Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Nigel John
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: An effective outline business case to facilitate successful decision-making
Abstract:
Historically the public sector's outline business case for Light Rapid
Transit/Metro public-private partnership projects delivered in the United
Kingdom has frequently failed to address the project affordability
decision. As a consequence the business cases have had to be reworked,
redeveloped or have required the project to be revoked, in each case
wasting significant amounts of public and private sector time and money.
The development and testing of an effective outline business case to
facilitate successful project affordability decision-making for PPP
projects is described. A mixed methods research approach was adopted
utilizing a case study research methodology, interviews with PPP experts
to identify business case critical success factors and application of the
analytical hierarchical process to assess their effectiveness. The Delphi
technique was used to verify and validate the effectiveness of the outline
business case. The findings demonstrated that the success of the outline
business case in practice relies on three critical success factors: the
degree of political support, achieving a balance between political PPP
ideology and the market's acceptance of the contractual model and the
level of transparency and commitment from suppliers. These factors are
major uncertainties, are difficult to represent accurately within the
business case and signify a major constraint to the sponsor forecasting
the project's affordability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 185-197
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Public-private partnership, business case, project affordability, project decision-making, analytical hierarchical process,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.538707
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:185-197
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: In the circuit of credibility: construction workers and the norms of 'a good job'
Abstract:
In the contemporary managerial regime, managerial control is increasingly
being maintained through indirect forms of control, centring on identities
and ideologies and instituting the co-workers as enterprising,
self-regulating subjects. The construction industry has, over time,
managed to maintain a craft tradition whereby individual skills rather
than engineered work routines have been favoured, resulting in management
control largely having been decentralized to work teams. A study of
construction work at three sites suggests that managerial control is
embedded in collectively enacted norms concerning what constitutes 'good
work'. The capacity to perform in accordance with such norms is translated
into credibility, a reputation for being capable of adhering to the norms
of good work. The construction industry and onsite construction work thus
operate on the basis of an 'economy of reputation' or a 'circuit of
credibility', prescribing what constitutes adequate performance and
imposing sanctions on underachieving individuals or companies. Such norms
and circuits of credibility serve to protect the role and status of
construction workers and to maintain jurisdiction over fields of
expertise, but they may also have a conservating effect on the industry,
being severely criticized in terms of failing to bring about innovations
and lower production costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 199-209
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Norms, credibility, reputation, management control,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.526623
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:199-209
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Elisabeth Campagnac
Author-X-Name-First: Elisabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Campagnac
Title: Governance and Knowledge Management for Public Private Partnerships
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 211-213
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.532810
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.532810
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:211-213
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Gravitt
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravitt
Title: Location-Based Management for Construction: Planning, Scheduling and Control
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-215
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.542469
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.542469
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:215-215
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rodger Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Rodger
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Intelligent Buildings and Building Automation
Abstract:
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 216-217
Issue: 2
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.542470
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.542470
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:2:p:216-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Venny Chandra
Author-X-Name-First: Venny
Author-X-Name-Last: Chandra
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Communicating about organizational culture in the briefing process: case study of a hospital project
Abstract:
A new hospital building represents a rare opportunity to align the
physical environment of healthcare with contemporary healthcare needs and
models of healthcare delivery to help ensure optimal health outcomes. The
effectiveness of interaction between project stakeholders from the
hospital and design teams during the briefing process of any hospital
project is critical in ensuring this alignment occurs. Therefore it is
important to explore the process of knowledge sharing during this project
briefing stage. Using thematic content analysis to explore communication
exchanges between these project stakeholders, we show that knowledge
exchanged during the briefing process is acquired not only explicitly but
implicitly through social processes whereby participants attempt to
socially construct a common understanding of the project. In particular,
the importance of constructive conflict in driving this process is
critical. This has implications for health planners, project managers,
facilities managers and health professions engaged in the briefing process
of hospital projects. In particular, it highlights the importance of
providing the correct environment and enough time for culturally conducive
social interaction and knowledge sharing to occur between the many
stakeholders involved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 223-231
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Hospitals, briefing, culture, conflict, knowledge, stakeholders, facilities management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.521756
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:223-231
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: H. L. Guo
Author-X-Name-First: H. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Ting Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Ting
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: K. Y. N. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: K. Y. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Greg Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Greg
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Rethinking prefabricated construction management using the VP-based IKEA model in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Prefabricated construction is regarded by many as an effective and
efficient approach to improving construction processes and productivity,
ensuring construction quality and reducing time and cost in the
construction industry. However, many problems occur with this approach in
practice, including higher risk levels and cost or time overruns. In order
to solve such problems, it is proposed that the IKEA model of the
manufacturing industry and VP technology are introduced into a
prefabricated construction process. The concept of the IKEA model is
identified in detail and VP technology is briefly introduced. In
conjunction with VP technology, the applications of the IKEA model are
presented in detail, i.e. design optimization, production optimization and
installation optimization. Furthermore, through a case study of a
prefabricated hotel project in Hong Kong, it is shown that the VP-based
IKEA model can improve the efficiency and safety of prefabricated
construction as well as reducing cost and time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 233-245
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Prefabricated construction, IKEA model, Virtual Prototyping, design optimization, construction optimization,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.545994
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.545994
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:233-245
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abu Naser Chowdhury
Author-X-Name-First: Abu Naser
Author-X-Name-Last: Chowdhury
Author-Name: Po-Han Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Po-Han
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Robert Tiong
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiong
Title: Analysing the structure of public-private partnership projects using network theory
Abstract:
In public-private partnership projects (PPP), the relationships between
the participants are established through a variety of contractual
agreements between financiers, government, contractors, operators and
customers. Raising funds, linking various participants legally and
financially, ensuring supply, and producing and marketing products depend
on well-established financial and legal structures of PPP. Though numerous
research studies have been conducted to establish and justify the
structure of PPP projects based on contractual agreements between
participating stakeholders and on existing legal frameworks of a host
country, there are still questions left unanswered. Examples are: What are
the factors that influence the structuring of PPP? Who are the key
stakeholders? And what are the roles of participating partners in a PPP
project? However, not much work has been done. Application of network
theory can help fill these gaps and identify and distinguish potential
stakeholders in PPP affiliation and can effectively contribute to an
in-depth analysis of the relationships between participating partners. The
analysis can identify important features like core-peripheral
stakeholder(s), influential intermediary participants and their
interdependence, and influences of a PPP structure on its substantive
outcome. With the introduction of the network theory, a more thorough
analysis of PPP structures can be achieved which may provide valuable
information to project sponsors as well as legal and financial advisers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 247-260
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Public-private partnership, structure, network, stakeholder, Pakistan,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.537354
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.537354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:247-260
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Z. S. Tabish
Author-X-Name-First: S. Z. S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabish
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: Analyses and evaluation of irregularities in public procurement in India
Abstract:
Public procurement is prone to corruption, which in the global
construction market alone accounts for an estimated US$340 billion per
year. There is a growing need for procurement systems to be able to fight
corruption and improve the effectiveness, efficiency, fairness and
transparency of public procurement. A comprehensive list of irregularities
in public procurement is derived from irregularities observed during
technical vigilance inspections by experts and reported cases. The
research involved a questionnaire survey, Delphi method and an empirical
investigation of the dynamics of irregular practices in public
procurement. The survey revealed the top 15 most frequent irregularities.
The irregularities have been classified under five categories:
transparency, professional standards, fairness, contract monitoring and
regulation and procedural irregularities. The ranking of these categories
reveals that transparency is the key factor requiring prime attention. The
other categories are of nearly equal importance. A framework for good
procurement is developed and actions proposed under five categories to
curb corruption in public procurement. The framework and the
irregularities can be related systematically to various aspects of
combating corruption, and hence should fulfil the urgent need of
policy-makers, professional staff, regulators and consumers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 261-274
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Corruption, India, irregularities, public sector procurement,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.549138
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.549138
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:261-274
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samuel Laryea
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Laryea
Title: Quality of tender documents: case studies from the UK
Abstract:
Tendering is one of the stages in construction procurement that requires
extensive information and documents exchange. However, tender documents
are not always clear in practice. The aim of this study was to ascertain
the clarity and adequacy of tender documents used in practice. Access was
negotiated into two UK construction firms and the whole tender process for
two projects was shadowed for six to seven weeks in each firm using an
ethnographic approach. A significant amount of tender queries, amendments
and addenda were recorded. This showed that quality of tender
documentation is still a problem in construction despite the existence of
Co-ordinated Project Information (1987) and British Standard 1192 (1984,
1990, 2007) that are meant to help in producing clear and consistent
project information. Poor quality tender documents are a source of
inaccurate estimates, claims and disputes on contracts. Six
recommendations are presented to help in improving the quality of tender
documentation. Further research is needed into the recommendations to help
improve the quality of tender documents, perhaps in conjunction with an
industry-wide investigation into the level of incorporation of CPI
principles in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 275-286
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Case study, contractor, tender documentation, tendering, UK,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.540019
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:275-286
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Mbachu
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbachu
Author-Name: Marcel Frei
Author-X-Name-First: Marcel
Author-X-Name-Last: Frei
Title: Diagnosing the strategic health of an organization from SWOT analysis results: case study of the Australasian cost management profession
Abstract:
To achieve strategic goals and success in the long term, every
organization needs to be in a good state of health. It is argued that the
strategic health of an organization depends on how the key strengths are
leveraged to exploit prime opportunities, while at the same time, minimize
exposure of the critical weaknesses to the serious threats in the external
environment. Based on a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats), the Strategic Health Index (SHI) was developed
as a conceptual tool for diagnosing the strategic health of an
organization. Application of the developed model was demonstrated in the
assessment of the strategic health status of the Australasian cost
management profession using analysed feedback from a convenience sample of
15 senior cost managers in Australia and New Zealand. Results show that
expertise in procurement and cost consultancy was the key strength most
leveraged to exploit identified opportunities, while lack of flexibility
and versatility of service was the key weakness exposing the profession
the most to the identified threats. Based on the SHI values, the overall
strategic health of the cost management profession was diagnosed to be
positive, in spite of its key weaknesses and threats. While these results
specifically relate to cost managers, application of the model is highly
recommended for use by business managers and others interested in
assessing the long-term health and survival of their organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 287-303
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Cost engineering, organizational analysis, strategic analysis, strategic management, strategic planning, SWOT analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.547865
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.547865
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:287-303
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yongwei Shan
Author-X-Name-First: Yongwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Shan
Author-Name: Paul Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Author-Name: Dong Zhai
Author-X-Name-First: Dong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhai
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Carlos Caldas
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos
Author-X-Name-Last: Caldas
Title: The impact of management practices on mechanical construction productivity
Abstract:
Over recent decades, sporadic advancements in machinery and construction
materials have to some extent increased construction productivity in the
United States. However, there is evidence that additional productivity
improvement opportunities exist. One way to improve direct work rates and
likewise the potential to increase construction craft productivity is
through better planning and management. Utilizing a dataset from the
Construction Industry Institute Benchmarking and Metrics programme with 41
sampled projects, the relationship between the level of implementation of
different management programmes and mechanical craft productivity is
examined. The implementation of several management programmes, including
pre-project planning, team building, automation and integration of
information systems and safety had a positive correlation with improved
mechanical productivity. In fact, the statistical results show that
projects with advanced implementation of the selected management
programmes experienced significant mechanical productivity advantages over
projects with weak implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-316
Issue: 3
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Automation, labour productivity, pre-project planning, safety, team building,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.538070
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.538070
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:3:p:305-316
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Hiete
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Hiete
Author-Name: Anna Kuhlen
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Kuhlen
Author-Name: Frank Schultmann
Author-X-Name-First: Frank
Author-X-Name-Last: Schultmann
Title: Analysing the interdependencies between the criteria of sustainable building rating systems
Abstract:
Various building rating systems have been developed to assess the 'green'
or sustainable performance of buildings. Most systems make use of
hierarchical criteria systems to evaluate the buildings with respect to
the different aspects of sustainability. Often, these criteria show
complex interdependencies between each other. Taking the German building
rating system as an example, the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation
Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is used to analyse such interdependencies and
to characterize the criteria. Users of the rating system might benefit
from this information, e.g. when focusing on cause criteria counting on
that an improvement there will also result in improvements of dependent
criteria. Rating system developers might remove strongly related criteria
and correct the criteria weighting for identified interdependencies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 323-328
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Building performance, certification, Germany, sustainable construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.558105
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.558105
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:323-328
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hsien-Hung Herman Yeh
Author-X-Name-First: Hsien-Hung Herman
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeh
Title: Adjustment behaviour of capital structure over the business cycles: evidence from the construction industry of Taiwan
Abstract:
Prior studies have found that firms may deviate from the target capital
structure in the short run and adjust towards the target in the long run.
However, little attention has been given to the adjustment behaviour of
capital structure in the construction industry over the business cycles,
in particular within the context of emerging markets. The partial
adjustment model with the GMM (i.e. generalized method of moments)
estimation is used to examine the adjustment behaviour of capital
structure in the construction industry within the context of Taiwan during
the period 1982 to 2007. The results suggest that, first, the average rate
of adjustment is 26.3% of the adjustment gap between the target debt
ratios and the previous debt ratios for firms in the construction industry
of Taiwan. However, the average rate of adjustment towards the target debt
ratios has slowed down after the Asian financial crisis of 1997. Secondly,
firms with the financial constraint of over-leverage relative to the
target debt ratios have lower debt ratios than those firms with the
financial constraint of under-leverage. In addition, the difference in
debt ratios between firms with the financial constraint of over-leverage
and under-leverage has become narrower after the Asian financial crisis.
Lastly, the findings suggest that macroeconomic conditions do not have a
significant, negative effect on debt ratios.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 329-340
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Capital structure, financial constraint, macroeconomic conditions, construction industry, Taiwan,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.562910
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.562910
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:329-340
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Margaret Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Fatigue: the most critical accident risk in oil and gas construction
Abstract:
Construction work in oil and gas projects is both challenging and
hazardous. The occupational hazards are often associated with fatigue and
stress, and an accident is one possible outcome. The purpose of the
two-part study was to identify the new and emergent risks within the top
10 ranked risks and to evaluate their contribution to accidents. Three
hundred and twenty stakeholders, from four oil and gas construction
projects in mainland China participated in the survey questionnaire.
Fifteen workers, who have experienced actual fatigue-related accidents,
were also interviewed. All of the stakeholders unanimously ranked fatigue
as the most critical risk perceived to cause accidents with emotional
disturbance, the emergent risk. This is the first time that fatigue has
been identified as the leading accident risk in the construction industry.
It was further reported as a trigger risk to a bundle of other synergetic
risks. The new discovery confirms the need to consider fatigue as a
complex multidimensional phenomenon and the lynchpin to reducing
accidents. These findings have created new responses to the problem of
accident causation and alternative views to accident mitigation. The
discoveries will open new opportunities for future research in the areas
of fatigue and stress risk management in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 341-353
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Accident, China, fatigue, gas construction, oil construction,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2010.545993
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2010.545993
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:341-353
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ashraf Elazouni
Author-X-Name-First: Ashraf
Author-X-Name-Last: Elazouni
Author-Name: Osama Salem
Author-X-Name-First: Osama
Author-X-Name-Last: Salem
Title: Progress monitoring of construction projects using pattern recognition techniques
Abstract:
Project monitoring involves collecting the actual-progress data, and
comparing them against the relevant planned-progress data to evaluate the
overall project progress at specified cut-off dates. Inevitable issues
including variations in reporting skills as well as the willingness to
record accurate data impact on the quality of the collected data.
Comparison against multiple possible benchmarks (one-to-many) rather than
a single benchmark (one-to-one) offers the potential to alleviate the
negative impact of low-quality data on the progress evaluation. Special
patterns, which can be readily manipulated within computer programs, are
devised to encode the planned and actual progress at the cut-off dates.
Basically, pattern recognition techniques are utilized to classify the
multiple patterns representing the planned progress at a given cut-off
date and the classification is used to evaluate the pattern representing
the actual progress at the same date. The pattern recognition techniques
generalize a virtual benchmark to represent the planned progress based on
multiple patterns generated at a given cut-off date and representing
possible benchmarks. In addition to the alleviation of the negative impact
of low-quality data on the progress evaluation, the generalization feature
potentially encourages a long-run attitude in site personnel to report
high-quality data. Finally, the pattern recognition concept and technique
proved their robustness to monitor and evaluate the overall progress of
the projects based on the technique of critical path method.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-370
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Progress monitoring, project control, pattern recognition, artificial neural network, statistical models,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.554846
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.554846
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:355-370
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jutta Schade
Author-X-Name-First: Jutta
Author-X-Name-Last: Schade
Author-Name: Thomas Olofsson
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Olofsson
Author-Name: Marcus Schreyer
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Schreyer
Title: Decision-making in a model-based design process
Abstract:
Decisions early in the design process have a big impact on the life cycle
performance of a building. The outcome of a construction project can be
improved if different design options can rapidly be analysed to assist the
client and design team in making informed decisions in the design process.
A model-based design approach can facilitate the decision-making process
if the design alternatives' performances can be evaluated and compared. A
decision-making framework using a performance-based design process in the
early design phase is proposed. It is developed to support decision-makers
to take informed decisions regarding the life cycle performance of a
building. A scenario is developed in order to demonstrate the proposed
framework of evaluating the different design alternatives' energy
performance. The framework is applicable to decision-making in a
structured design process, where design alternatives consisting of both
objective and subjective evaluation criteria can be evaluated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 371-382
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Decision making, design process, energy, design decision, BIM,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.552510
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.552510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:371-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Issa
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Issa
Author-Name: Mohamed Attalla
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Attalla
Author-Name: Jeff Rankin
Author-X-Name-First: Jeff
Author-X-Name-Last: Rankin
Author-Name: A. John Christian
Author-X-Name-First: A. John
Author-X-Name-Last: Christian
Title: Energy consumption in conventional, energy-retrofitted and green LEED Toronto schools
Abstract:
Green buildings have been marketed as the economical, energy-efficient
alternative to conventional buildings. This is despite little existing
empirical evidence to prove their energy efficiency, especially in Canada.
To overcome this limitation, the electricity and gas consumption
quantities and costs of a sample of 10 conventional, 20 energy-retrofitted
and three green Toronto schools following the Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design Rating (LEED) System for New Construction were
analysed in this study. The analysis conducted over eight years for
conventional and energy-retrofitted schools, and since their inception for
green schools, showed surprisingly that energy-retrofitted and green
schools spent 37% more on electricity than conventional schools.
Nevertheless, green schools spent 56% and 41% less on gas than
conventional and energy-retrofitted schools respectively. Their total
energy costs were also 28% lower than conventional and energy-retrofitted
schools. Nevertheless, these savings do not always justify their
construction cost premiums. The study showed that more research was needed
to overcome the scarcity of data on green buildings in Canada. There was a
need to focus on analysing more green buildings, of various types, and
over longer study periods in order to better understand why some green
buildings do not live up to expectations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-395
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Energy consumption, green buildings, cost,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.552511
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.552511
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:383-395
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kun Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Kun
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Hazhir Rahmandad
Author-X-Name-First: Hazhir
Author-X-Name-Last: Rahmandad
Author-Name: Tonya Smith-Jackson
Author-X-Name-First: Tonya
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith-Jackson
Author-Name: Woodrow Winchester
Author-X-Name-First: Woodrow
Author-X-Name-Last: Winchester
Title: Factors influencing the risk of falls in the construction industry: a review of the evidence
Abstract:
Falls are a significant public health risk and a leading cause of
non-fatal and fatal injuries among construction workers worldwide. A more
comprehensive understanding of casual factors leading to fall incidents is
essential to prevent falls in the construction industry. However, an
extensive overview of causal factors is missing from the literature. In
this paper, 536 articles on factors contributing to the risk of falls were
retrieved. One hundred and twenty-one (121) studies met the criteria for
relevance and quality to be coded, and were synthesized to provide an
overview. In lieu of the homogeneity needed across studies to conduct a
structured meta-analysis, a literature synthesis method based on
macro-variables was advanced. This method provides a flexible approach to
aggregating previous findings and assessing agreement across those
studies. Factors commonly associated with falls included working surfaces
and platforms, workers' safety behaviours and attitudes, and construction
structure and facilities. Significant differences across qualitative and
quantitative studies were found in terms of focus, and areas with limited
agreement in previous research were identified. The findings contribute to
research on the causes of falls in construction, developing engineering
controls, informing policy and intervention design to reduce the risk of
falls, and improving research synthesis methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 397-416
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Accident causes, causal map, literature synthesis methods, safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.558104
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:397-416
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Author-Name: Behzad Esmaeili
Author-X-Name-First: Behzad
Author-X-Name-Last: Esmaeili
Author-Name: Paul Chinowsky
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinowsky
Title: Safety risk interactions among highway construction work tasks
Abstract:
Recent research has produced frameworks for integrating safety risk data
into project schedules, visual models and other construction planning
tools. Unfortunately, only a few studies have attempted to quantify
base-level safety risk for construction tasks and no study has attempted
to quantify the degree to which spatial and temporal interactions among
tasks contribute to the potential for injury. A research study was
performed to quantify the impact that pair-wise spatial and temporal
interactions have on the base-level risk of 25 common highway construction
work tasks in the United States. Six hundred risk interactions were
quantified by obtaining and aggregating over 23 500 individual ratings
from certified experts using the Delphi method. The results indicate that
incompatible tasks may increase the base-level risk up to 60%. The most
incompatible highway construction tasks are: (1) installing curbs and
gutters and installing rigid pavement; and (2) construction zone traffic
control and installing rigid pavement. Additionally, watering and dust
palliatives and pavement marking is the one compatible task pair and there
are 45 neutral task pairs. The resulting database and analysis have the
potential to increase the efficacy of existing frameworks for integration
of safety risk data with project planning tools.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 417-429
Issue: 4
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Project management, risk analysis, safety,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.552512
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:4:p:417-429
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raj Kapur Shah
Author-X-Name-First: Raj Kapur
Author-X-Name-Last: Shah
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Title: An innovative approach for generation of a time location plan in road construction projects
Abstract:
Existing linear scheduling methods for earthwork activities lack accurate
scheduling locations in road construction projects. Project planners and
construction managers largely depend on subjective decisions for the
allocation of resources at correct locations. This has caused
uncertainties in planning and scheduling, and consequently delays and cost
overruns of projects. Accurate information of working locations is vital
for efficient resource planning, scheduling and equipment mobilisation. A
theoretical framework for a virtual construction prototype model is
developed using the theory of location-based planning and this is used as
the basis of sensitivity analysis to identify critical factors affecting
road construction. An arithmetic algorithm is developed by incorporating
road design data, sectional quantities, variable productivity data, unit
cost, site access points and haulage distance. The model generates a time
location plan automatically with the aim to provide location-based
scheduling information of earthwork activities. Weekly progress profiles,
terrain surfaces, cost profiles and S-curve are the other outputs of the
model. Data and information collected from the case studies are used to
demonstrate functionalities of the model. Critical factors controlling the
productivity of earthwork activities such as different types of equipment,
soil characteristics and site access points were used to display the
sensitivity effect by means of 'what-if scenarios'. The model is a
valuable tool in analysing impacts of different factors associated with
productivity data and resource planning from location aspects in the
earthwork construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 435-448
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Earthworks planning, linear scheduling, productivity, time location plan, sensitivity analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.563785
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.563785
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:435-448
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yong-Woo Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Yong-Woo
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Seungheon Han
Author-X-Name-First: Seungheon
Author-X-Name-Last: Han
Author-Name: Sungwon Shin
Author-X-Name-First: Sungwon
Author-X-Name-Last: Shin
Author-Name: Kunhee Choi
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhee
Author-X-Name-Last: Choi
Title: A case study of activity-based costing in allocating rebar fabrication costs to projects
Abstract:
How to improve cost allocation for reinforced steel bar (rebar) is an
ongoing topic of debate among construction manufacturers and contractors.
Traditionally, many fabrication shops have used a single overhead-cost
pool accounting system. However, a new costing method, activity-based
costing (ABC), may provide more advantages than the traditional system. In
this case study, a single overhead-cost pool system is compared with the
ABC method to demonstrate how ABC improves cost allocation and provides
other benefits. The case study findings indicate that ABC provides such
benefits as (1) accurate manufacturing costs; (2) cost information on
processes; and (3) information on cost drivers. This paper also bridges
the construction and cost accounting literature. Our study contributes to
the construction management literature by offering a different cost
allocation method to refine fabrication costs assigned to projects. The
findings are expected to serve as a reference for industry professionals
who recognize the shortcomings of a traditional single overhead-cost pool
system and are in need of a more accurate costing system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 449-461
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Rebar fabrication, activity-based costing, overhead cost allocation,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.570354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:449-461
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ajibade Ayodeji Aibinu
Author-X-Name-First: Ajibade Ayodeji
Author-X-Name-Last: Aibinu
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Structural equation modelling of organizational justice and cooperative behaviour in the construction project claims process: contractors' perspectives
Abstract:
A cooperative attitude is essential for successful teamwork in
construction. The levels of conflict and dispute on construction projects
are conceptualized as forms of cooperative/uncooperative attitude. A
theoretical model demonstrates how conflict intensity, contractors'
dispute tendencies and six identified constructs of organizational justice
interact with and relate to each other. The model is tested using a
structural equation modelling technique with partial least-squares
estimation. It uses survey data obtained from 41 contractors regarding
their project experience. The results suggest that perceptions about
organizational justice either promote or hinder cooperative behaviour in
the construction project delivery process. Organizational justice, or at
least people's perceptions of it, influenced 38% of conflict intensity
levels, and altered 46% of contractors' tendencies to dispute. Perceptions
about the quantum of claims approved (favourability of the outcome and the
perceived fairness of the outcome) influenced the levels of conflict and
dispute. However, the way people are treated (quality of treatment) and
the way claims are administered (quality of decision-making) have the
largest impact on the model developed. Cooperative behaviour can be
promoted on projects by managing construction claims in a proactive manner
and by proper implementation of the claims mechanism.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 463-481
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Claims, cooperation, conflict, organizational justice, structural equation model,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.564195
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.564195
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:463-481
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulaziz Jarkas
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulaziz
Author-X-Name-Last: Jarkas
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Revisiting the applicability of learning curve theory to formwork labour productivity
Abstract:
The learning phenomenon has proved applicable in various industries,
especially those associated with mass productions, such as aircraft and
automobile assembly. The learning process in labour-intensive industries
is assumed to be more significant in the sense that automated work is
constrained by the fact that machines cannot benefit from previous
experience and therefore would not 'learn' to run any faster or increase
the rate of production. Several previous investigations into the
applicability of learning curve theory to the construction industry proved
the importance of this concept to labour productivity. Nevertheless, a
thorough examination of the literature revealed a dearth of research into
the effect of learning on the formwork operation of building floors.
Consequently, the objective of this research is to explore the influence
of recurring building floor configurations on formwork labour
productivity. To achieve this objective, formwork labour inputs from 45
multi-storey in situ reinforced concrete building frames were collected
and analysed using the straight-line learning curve model. The cumulative
average input for each cycle, i.e. floor, and its associated cycle number
were modelled using the least squares method. According to the learning
curve theory, we expect the labour inputs to decrease by a certain
percentage, as the cycle number increases. Based on the results obtained,
there is very little evidence for that.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-493
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Formwork, labour inputs, labour productivity, learning curve theory, learning phenomenon,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.562911
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.562911
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:483-493
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sofia Pemsel
Author-X-Name-First: Sofia
Author-X-Name-Last: Pemsel
Author-Name: Kristian Widen
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Widen
Title: Bridging boundaries between organizations in construction
Abstract:
Organizations have boundaries that serve various purposes; for example,
differentiating internal operations from external activities and
controlling flows of information. Boundaries can however hinder knowledge
exchange in inter-organizational collaboration, leading to less effective
outcomes. Empirical results from comparative case studies on how
boundaries between organizations in a project can be bridged effectively
to support knowledge exchange are presented. End-user organizations and
real estate companies form the subjects of the enquiry. The results show
that the depth of involvement of the end-user organization varies widely
and, with it, the use of bridging roles and activities. To identify
bridging strategies that can foster productive knowledge exchange in
inter-organizational collaboration, it is necessary to understand
contextual aspects of end-users' needs to ensure the availability of
sufficient competence within, and time for, the project team to perform
its duties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-506
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Organizational boundaries, communication, bridging strategies, end-users, projects,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.563786
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.563786
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:495-506
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Gambatese
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Gambatese
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Factors that influence the development and diffusion of technical innovations in the construction industry
Abstract:
Some technical innovations diffuse rapidly throughout the construction
industry while others take a long time or are never integrated into
everyday practice. Understanding the initiation, development,
implementation and outcomes of successful technical innovations within the
construction industry provides guidance for the improvement of the
innovation process. To further this understanding, innovation generating
organizations (IGOs) in the construction industry were surveyed and the
data were statistically analysed. Two sources were used to identify newly
developed products, technologies and management strategies: the
Construction Innovation Forum's NOVA Award website and the Emerging
Construction Technologies (ECT) website. A total of 233 innovative
products were identified from the two websites. The results showed that
there are many statistically significant motivating factors for investment
in the initial development of successful technical innovation, barriers
and enablers to efficient diffusion and innovation outcomes on
construction projects. Additionally, successful development,
implementation and diffusion of an innovative product required an average
of 38 months, 4700 worker-hours and $836 000.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-517
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Innovation, design, technology,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.570355
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:507-517
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S. Thomas Ng
Author-X-Name-First: S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomas Ng
Author-Name: Ryan Fan
Author-X-Name-First: Ryan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fan
Author-Name: James Wong
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wong
Title: An econometric model for forecasting private construction investment in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Acknowledging the importance of the private construction market and a
close linkage between private construction investment, public sector
output and general economic conditions, there is a strong motivation to
develop reliable models to forecast private construction investment. Based
on the Hong Kong scenario, two modelling approaches, namely the vector
error correction (VEC) and the multiple regression models are developed
and compared for their modelling accuracy and ability to handle
non-stationary time series data. The result suggests that private
construction investment in Hong Kong can be predicted by reference to
public investment in construction, gross domestic product (GDP) and
unemployment rate. All in all, the VEC model is considered more accurate
and robust in handling non-stationary data. Through the VEC model, it is
possible to confirm that the crowding-in effect of public work programmes,
though minimal, is discernible in private construction investment in Hong
Kong. Yet private construction investment is more sensitive to general
economic conditions, as represented by GDP and unemployment rate. The GDP
could represent the ability of investors to pay for construction items,
while the unemployment rate is used as a proxy for the willingness of
end-users to purchase the construction items. The models proposed should
help policy and decision makers formulate suitable policies and strategies
to sustain the construction industry in the medium to long run.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-534
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Private construction investment, vector error correction model, regression analysis, stationarity, crowding-in effect,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.570356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:519-534
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fen-may Liou
Author-X-Name-First: Fen-may
Author-X-Name-Last: Liou
Author-Name: Chien-hui Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Chien-hui
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: Boarliang Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Boarliang
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Weichi Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Weichi
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Title: Identifying the Pareto-front approximation for negotiations of BOT contracts with a multi-objective genetic algorithm
Abstract:
The build-operate-transfer (BOT) project is formulated based upon
cooperative partnerships among various public and private parties. Win-win
negotiation solutions are especially essential for parties that usually
have conflicts of interests. A simulation-based multi-objective genetic
algorithm (SMOGA) procedure is developed to address conflicts among the
objectives of three parties: government and consumer interests that focus
on users' rights and social welfare; the private investor's pursuit of
profit maximization; and lenders who want to control the solvency risk of
the concessionaire. Taking the Kaohsiung cable car project in Taiwan as an
example, the SMOGA procedure is used to seek terms and conditions lying on
or near the Pareto frontier for BOT projects with multi-objectives. Monte
Carlo simulation is conducted first to determine the project risks and
generate the sample data used as the input of the genetic algorithm (GA).
The GA subsequently generates a number of combinations of concessional
terms and conditions that approximately and simultaneously optimize the
three conflicting objectives. The GA-generated approximate Pareto frontier
provides a decision space of financial and concessional terms and
conditions that satisfies all parties and facilitates the negotiations of
BOT contracts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-548
Issue: 5
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Build-operate-transfer, genetic algorithms, Monte Carlo simulation, Pareto frontier,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.564196
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.564196
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:5:p:535-548
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Gambatese
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Gambatese
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Enabling and measuring innovation in the construction industry
Abstract:
Innovation is vital to successful, long-term company performance in the
construction industry. Understanding the innovation process, how
innovation can be enhanced and how it can be measured are key steps to
managing and enhancing innovation. The factors that affect innovation on a
project were identified, as well as how these factors can be used to
measure the level of innovation on a project, and the practices and
processes that encourage and facilitate innovative changes. Case studies
of construction projects in the United States revealed three necessary
components of innovation: idea generation, opportunity and diffusion. A
variety of practices are used to optimize each component including support
and commitment from the owner/client and firm upper management, workforce
and project team integration and diversity. Applying the practices
identified in the research leads to enhanced innovation through better
communication among project team members, integration of the design and
construction disciplines, more efficient designs, development of unique
ways of completing work and sharing of the lessons learned. The end result
of innovation will be projects that successfully meet and exceed cost,
quality, schedule and safety goals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-567
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Integrated team, innovation, organizational culture, organizational behaviour, project management,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.570357
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:553-567
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hong Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Hong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Feng Xing
Author-X-Name-First: Feng
Author-X-Name-Last: Xing
Author-Name: Juan Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Juan
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Rehabilitation decision-making for buildings in the Wenchuan area
Abstract:
The disastrous Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 claimed around 100 000 lives
and caused direct economic losses of around RMB 845.1 billion. The tragedy
has also led to accusations regarding poor or inadequate seismic resistant
capabilities of buildings. Seismic rehabilitation, which includes
repairing and strengthening existing or damaged buildings, is required to
reduce losses in any future earthquakes. It is difficult to determine an
appropriate rehabilitation option, especially for subjective or emotional
building owners, because of the rehabilitation costs and the probabilistic
nature of earthquake occurrences. A decision-making tree (DMT) model is
proposed and constructed to help determine an economically feasible
rehabilitation option. The required information, such as available
rehabilitation options and costs, possible earthquake intensities and
probabilities, possible damage, probabilities and loss of buildings is
analysed and identified. Case analyses demonstrate the capability of the
DMT model in making decisions on rehabilitation options for the buildings
damaged during the Wenchuan earthquake, thus avoiding subjectivities or
emotions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-578
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Decision-making tree, seismic rehabilitation, Wenchuan earthquake, buildings, economic losses,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.569732
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:569-578
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Budi Hartono
Author-X-Name-First: Budi
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartono
Author-Name: Chee Meng Yap
Author-X-Name-First: Chee Meng
Author-X-Name-Last: Yap
Title: Understanding risky bidding: a prospect-contingent perspective
Abstract:
A descriptive research school of thought provides the context for an
examination of contractors' risky bid mark-up decisions in a competitive
bidding setting. Grounded in prospect theory and the one-reason decision
model, a contingency-based theoretical model was developed to explain and
to predict bid mark-up decisions in light of four identified determinants,
namely: perceived 'rate of returns', 'revenues', 'project backlogs' and
'project strategic importance'. Three scenarios according to this model
were verified by means of a self-administered survey in the Singapore
construction industry. By using cluster analysis, five groups of bidders
with distinctive bid profiles were identified and the associated bid
mark-ups were calculated. The emerging groups provide an empirical
illustration on how the theoretical model is utilized. For instance, one
group of bidders (n = 16) demonstrates a scenario of the model in which
participating bidders had considered the reported project bid as having
high strategic importance to their organizations and hence made
aggressive, low bid mark-ups. The theoretically grounded framework could
be used by contractors to improve their own bidding strategy in
anticipating the likely behaviour of the competitors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 579-593
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Bidding, mark-up, contingency, cluster analysis, prospect theory,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.569733
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:579-593
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cheryl Chi
Author-X-Name-First: Cheryl
Author-X-Name-Last: Chi
Author-Name: Amy Nicole Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Nicole Javernick-Will
Title: Institutional effects on project arrangement: high-speed rail projects in China and Taiwan
Abstract:
Previous studies recognize institutional impacts on the arrangement of
large infrastructure projects but they have not analysed the process by
which a host country's institutions shape infrastructure projects.
Institutional theory was applied as an analytical lens to identify
different effects of regulatory, normative and cultural institutions on
project arrangements. A cross-case comparative study of high-speed rail
projects in China and Taiwan was conducted to investigate the processes
through which political cultures and industrial structures determined the
decisions for project arrangements, including delivery method, financing,
participants' roles, the degree of private and foreign participation, and
organization. Longitudinal archival methods combined with exploratory case
studies were employed to examine project decisions by analysing government
regulations, official publications, news articles, project documents and
20 interviews. A conceptual model was presented to integrate the findings.
The political culture in each host country defines the political goals and
legitimate approaches of large infrastructure projects, while industrial
structure limits feasible alternatives for project arrangements.
Collectively, they shape project arrangements and largely dictate the
roles played by the government, private enterprises and foreign actors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 595-611
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Project arrangements, political culture, industrial structure, infrastructure, project,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.569734
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.569734
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:595-611
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Selin Gundes
Author-X-Name-First: Selin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gundes
Title: Input structure of the construction industry: a cross-country analysis, 1968-90
Abstract:
During the past several decades, globalization has led to the integration
of product markets. Rapid increases in cross-border economic, social,
technological and cultural exchange have become the key elements of
knowledge diffusion and thus technology spillovers among countries. As a
result, the debate as to whether absolute convergence occurs at the
cross-country level has increasingly attracted the attention of
researchers. The aim of this study is to examine the changes in the input
structure of the construction industry in nine developed countries between
the late 1960s and 1990 and to evaluate whether convergence occurs at
input industry level. The analysis of the technical coefficients for 35
industries reveals that, across countries and over time, not only the key
inputs but also the new high and low input industries are similar. The
estimation of variance factors on the other hand suggests that (1) during
the sample period, the input structure of the industry is dominated by
divergence rather than convergence; (2) among the input industries,
services in particular tend for convergence; and (3) manufacturing inputs
provide a mixed picture where only a few inputs show convergence and the
remaining inputs show in general weak divergence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 613-621
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Construction sector, input structure, cross-country analysis,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.563787
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.563787
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:613-621
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Benjamin Murray
Author-X-Name-First: Benjamin
Author-X-Name-Last: Murray
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Title: Franchising in the US remodelling market: growth opportunities and barriers faced by general contractors
Abstract:
Residential remodelling contractors operate in a highly fragmented,
disaggregated market. Competition and consolidation arise from other
market actors, thus remodellers have diminished bargaining power and
higher market risk since they traditionally service geographically
specific markets. Franchising theories may provide a competitive business
strategy to parallel consolidation in other actors. Yet a small population
of remodelling franchises are listed in the US. The vast majority of these
franchises were in specialty trades and only one general contracting
franchise was represented. This raises the question as to what extent
there are barriers to franchising in practice for general contractors in
the US remodelling industry and whether opportunities exist for growth
through franchising. First, economic theories of franchising are evaluated
against secondary quantitative data and extant literature. Second,
interviews were conducted among non-franchising, general remodellers. Two
principal findings emerge. Human capital requirements are found to be a
primary barrier to franchising. A second finding is the perceptual barrier
among key decision-makers in founder-controlled firms. Therefore, the
barriers are largely perceptual. The finding is reflected upon by
introducing upper-echelon theory and ultimately suggests that as the
profiles of company owners change, the perceptual barrier to franchising
may be of lesser significance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-634
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Barriers to entry, franchising, general contractor, remodelling,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.566622
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.566622
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:623-634
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Abdel-Wahab
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdel-Wahab
Author-Name: Bernard Vogl
Author-X-Name-First: Bernard
Author-X-Name-Last: Vogl
Title: Trends of productivity growth in the construction industry across Europe, US and Japan
Abstract:
Productivity is a key driver for economic growth and prosperity in any
country. The pursuit of productivity growth requires an understanding of
the factors affecting productivity. The trend of productivity growth,
along with the possible factors underlying such growth across Europe, the
US and Japan, is thus examined. In particular, there is a focus on
comparing the productivity performance of the construction sector to that
of other industries. Using the recently released EU KLEMS1 database,2 a
growth accounting framework was adopted to assess the contribution of the
following factors to productivity growth (during 1971-2005): capital,
labour quality and total factor productivity (TFP). It was found that
there is a general slowdown in labour productivity growth in total
industries including construction across major OECD countries, with the
exception of the UK. The differences in labour productivity growth between
construction and total industries can be largely explained by
construction's poor TFP performance. With the exception of the UK, TFP
negatively contributed to labour productivity growth in the period
1990-2005, suggesting that the industry has become less efficient in
combining the factors of production. That phenomenon seems to be
consistent across all selected countries and warrants further
investigation. Indeed a better understanding of the factors underlying
productivity growth in OECD countries is a prerequisite for effective
intervention of policy makers to support sustained productivity growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-644
Issue: 6
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Keywords: Productivity, growth accounting, skills, capital,
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.573568
File-URL: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01446193.2011.573568
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:6:p:635-644
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marco K.W. Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Marco K.W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Author-Name: Graham Ive
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Ive
Title: Orders and output in UK construction statistics: new methodology and old problems
Abstract:
The Office for National Statistics in the UK has developed and adopted a
new method for collecting and publishing construction statistics. The
analysis of the revised construction new orders series and the associated
new UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) output price
index for all new construction leads to three conclusions: (1) the new
indices have corrected two significant methodological errors, namely the
underestimation of the number of main contractors and the underestimation
of inflation by BIS output price indices for new construction; (2) the new
indices addressed a concern, the orders--output ‘credibility
gap’, in the construction output forecasting literature; and (3)
care should be taken when using the revised orders series and new output
price index for historic research because a ‘credibility
gap’ exists between the two back series prior to 1990.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-658
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.574713
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.574713
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:653-658
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Emad Elbeltagi
Author-X-Name-First: Emad
Author-X-Name-Last: Elbeltagi
Author-Name: Ossama A. Hosny
Author-X-Name-First: Ossama A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosny
Author-Name: Ahmed Elhakeem
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed
Author-X-Name-Last: Elhakeem
Author-Name: Mohamed Emam Abd-Elrazek
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed Emam
Author-X-Name-Last: Abd-Elrazek
Author-Name: Ahmed Abdullah
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdullah
Title: Selection of slab formwork system using fuzzy logic
Abstract:
Formwork plays an important role in building construction. The selection
of an appropriate formwork system can reduce project cost, improve quality
and speed up the construction process. Although the selection of an
appropriate formwork system requires years of experience in formwork
design, few experienced personnel may be available, especially in
small/medium size contracting companies. With the lack of such experts,
the costly outsourcing option becomes essential otherwise the selection of
a particular formwork system might not be appropriate. A structured
approach is developed to help decision makers in small/medium Egyptian
construction companies to select the appropriate horizontal formwork
system(s) for their projects. This can be achieved by recognizing the
project governing factors affecting the selection process. Based on these
factors, a knowledge base is developed to facilitate the process. A fuzzy
logic system is used to automate the process and overcome ambiguity and
uncertainty in the selection process. The system is shown to be useful and
accurate in its application to a real-life case. A survey of formwork
experts reveals its ease of use. Further research will expand the system
to consider vertical formwork selection to ensure full compatibility.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 659-670
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.590144
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.590144
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:659-670
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mariagrazia Squicciarini
Author-X-Name-First: Mariagrazia
Author-X-Name-Last: Squicciarini
Author-Name: Anna-Leena Asikainen
Author-X-Name-First: Anna-Leena
Author-X-Name-Last: Asikainen
Title: A value chain statistical definition of construction and the performance of the sector
Abstract:
Existing statistical analyses often fail to capture the true scope of the
economic impact of the construction sector. They account for the
construction of buildings, civil engineering, and construction specialized
activities, as defined by Section F of the Statistical Classification of
Economic Activities (or NACE) used in the European Community, but overlook
related activities such as the manufacture of construction products and
architectural and engineering services. This shortcoming is addressed and
a wider definition of the construction sector is proposed that encompasses
the whole value chain of the industry. Going beyond the
‘core’ construction sector section (Section F), activities
from other NACE sectors that fully or principally depend upon or are
functional to core construction activities are considered. These
‘non-core’ classes relate to ‘pre-production’
activities, such as the provision of intermediate goods and services;
various ‘support’ activities and
‘post-production’ functions such as maintenance and
management services. Equivalent broad definitions of the construction
sector based on the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)
and the International Standard Industrial Classification (ISIC) are also
developed to allow for optimum comparisons across countries and over time.
Using detailed data from Finland and the Community Innovation Survey 4
(CIS4), core and non-core activities are characterized and quantified.
Evidence suggests that indicators measuring the composition, structure,
value added, skills, and R&D input and output of the construction sector
change substantially when a broader definition of the sector is applied.
Policies targeting the ‘wide’ construction sector, and
exploiting the innovation, growth and productivity leverage potential of
non-core activities are thus advocated.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 671-693
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.577438
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.577438
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:671-693
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chia Fah Choy
Author-X-Name-First: Chia Fah
Author-X-Name-Last: Choy
Title: Revisiting the ‘Bon curve’
Abstract:
Bon’s proposition of an inverted U-shaped relationship between the
share of construction activities and stages of economic development, which
is commonly known as the ‘Bon curve’, has been explored in
earlier studies. The previous studies adopted cross-sectional comparison
comprising a number of selected countries over a period of time. This
study revisits Bon’s theories with data maintained by the United
Nations Statistics Division, which covers 205 economies from 1970 to 2009.
Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc tests and quadratic regression
were used in the verification process. Cross-sectional comparison and
longitudinal analysis were used to verify Bon’s propositions. The
inverted U-shaped relationship between construction activities and level
of development was not confirmed when the aggregated data of all countries
over time were considered simultaneously. The relationships across
countries at a given time were not confirmed in the majority of the yearly
aggregated data. The relationships within countries over time were
confirmed in 78 economies, mostly from high and upper-middle income
countries. Bon’s proposition of ‘volume follows
share’ was not confirmed. Declines in construction were found in
most of the high income economies. In conclusion, Bon’s curve is to
be interpreted as explaining variation within the developed economies over
time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-712
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.578959
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.578959
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:695-712
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Patricia Carrillo
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Carrillo
Author-Name: Jenny Harding
Author-X-Name-First: Jenny
Author-X-Name-Last: Harding
Author-Name: Alok Choudhary
Author-X-Name-First: Alok
Author-X-Name-Last: Choudhary
Title: Knowledge discovery from post-project reviews
Abstract:
Many construction companies conduct reviews on project completion to
enhance learning and to fulfil quality management procedures. Often these
reports are filed away never to be seen again. This means that potentially
important knowledge that may assist other project teams is not exploited.
In order to ascertain whether useful knowledge can be gleaned from such
reports, Knowledge Discovery from Text (KDT) and text mining (TM) are
applied. Text mining avoids the need for a manual search through a vast
number of reports, potentially of different formats and foci, to seek
trends that may be useful for current and future projects. Pilot tests
were used to analyse 48 post-project review reports. The reports were
first reviewed manually to identify key themes. They were then analysed
using text mining software to investigate whether text mining could
identify trends and uncover useful knowledge from the reports. Pilot tests
succeeded in finding common occurrences across different projects that
were previously unknown. Text mining could provide a potential solution
and would aid project teams to learn from previous projects. However, a
lot of work is currently required before the text mining tests are
conducted and the results need to be examined carefully by those with
domain knowledge to validate the results obtained.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 713-723
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.588953
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.588953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:713-723
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sara Jane Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Sara Jane
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Author-Name: Richard Reed
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Reed
Title: Examining and quantifying the drivers behind alterations and extensions to commercial buildings in a central
business district
Abstract:
The drive to undertake building adaptation has increased in momentum, the
primary reason being adaptation can be less expensive than new build and
conventionally result in faster project delivery times. The issue of
sustainable development is another clear driver for adaptation and
collectively buildings contribute around half of all greenhouse gas
emissions. At the same time governments seek effective and efficient ways
of reducing the contribution of cities to climate change and building
adaptation appears to offer a practical means of reducing building-related
emissions. One example is the ‘1200 building program’ which
aims to increase adaptation rates with a target of 1200 city centre office
adaptations by 2020 as part of the strategy to achieve carbon neutrality.
Through a longitudinal examination of building adaptations it is possible
to identify the nature and extent of typical levels of adaptation, as well
as determining the inter-relationship between different types of
adaptation and building attributes. Melbourne city centre was used for a
case study which analysed 5290 building adaptation events between 1998 and
2008. The findings promote the adaptive reuse of buildings in specific
circumstances and are directly applicable for increasing sustainability in
the built environment. The case study focused on existing buildings in a
global city to ensure relevance to urban centres where existing commercial
buildings can become part of the solution to mitigate climate change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 725-735
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.588954
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.588954
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:725-735
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jie Gong
Author-X-Name-First: Jie
Author-X-Name-Last: Gong
Author-Name: John D. Borcherding
Author-X-Name-First: John D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Borcherding
Author-Name: Carlos H. Caldas
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Caldas
Title: Effectiveness of craft time utilization in construction projects
Abstract:
Achieving efficient craft time utilization in the execution of
construction projects is of great interest to project stakeholders. Craft
time utilization assessment methods, such as work sampling and five-minute
rating, measure the effectiveness of labour utilization, expose excessive
non-productive time in the execution of construction activities, and
reflect the soundness of workface planning. Onsite time utilization
studies were conducted on 98 construction projects during the period
1972--2009. Statistic analyses were performed on the collected data to
investigate the evolution of direct work rates and crew effectiveness over
time, to gain understanding on craft time utilization patterns, and to
identify improvement opportunities. The results of analyses suggest that,
among other findings, the direct work ratio in construction projects and
crew effectiveness in various construction activities have not improved
during this period, and there is a statistically significant difference on
crew effectiveness across different types of activities as well as in
activities with different team size. The findings provide baselines to
support the definition of craft time utilization targets in productivity
improvement initiatives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 737-751
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.595013
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.595013
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:737-751
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Erika Levander
Author-X-Name-First: Erika
Author-X-Name-Last: Levander
Author-Name: Susanne Engström
Author-X-Name-First: Susanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Engström
Author-Name: Ylva Sardén
Author-X-Name-First: Ylva
Author-X-Name-Last: Sardén
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Title: Construction clients’ ability to manage uncertainty and equivocality
Abstract:
While risk and uncertainty management have received much attention within
construction management research, management of information interpretation
remains unexplored. Situations that are generally overlooked are those
where increased amounts and flow of information are not the solution to
the human problem of managing multiple meanings of information and
conflicting interpretations, i.e. ‘equivocality’. The aim is
to identify and differentiate between construction clients’
uncertainty and equivocality about industrialized construction in Sweden,
and, in the light of those findings, to evaluate clients’ current
information processing practice on investment decisions in new-build in
order to assess and discuss clients’ ability to manage uncertainty
and equivocality. Based on information processing theory, analysis of
aggregated data from three previous studies shows that there is a need to
manage both uncertainty and equivocality. At the same time,
clients’ ability to do this is found to be limited. Consequently,
when industrialized construction moves clients beyond their current frame
of reference, clients’ information processing practice does not
support decision making. It is also proposed that differentiating between
uncertainty and equivocality will enable a more profound understanding of
the sequential order for information processing, i.e. that one must define
questions (reduce equivocality) before one can find answers to the
questions (reduce uncertainty).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 753-764
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.595423
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.595423
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:753-764
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jim Meikle
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: Meikle
Title: Modern Construction Economics: Theory and Application
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 765-766
Issue: 7
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.587440
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.587440
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:7:p:765-766
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K.C. Iyer
Author-X-Name-First: K.C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Iyer
Author-Name: Mohammed Sagheer
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed
Author-X-Name-Last: Sagheer
Title: A real options based traffic risk mitigation model for build-operate-transfer highway projects in India
Abstract:
Build-operate-transfer (BOT) has been one of the preferred models of
public--private partnership (PPP) for attracting private capital in the
Indian highway sector. In BOT projects the traffic demand is considered a
critical risk. Through a concession agreement called the model concession
agreement (MCA) a standardized risk allocation framework has been adopted
for BOT highway projects in India. If the actual traffic volume deviates
from the projected traffic, the MCA suggests varying the length of the
concession period (by a pre-agreed formula) to mitigate the traffic demand
risk. This arrangement has the limitation of guaranteeing the
concessionaire against the shortfall in traffic demand while it bestows
unlimited gain otherwise. Past researchers have also examined only the
possibility of revenue guarantees to protect the concessionaire from
downside risks due to variation in traffic. Therefore, a traffic band is
proposed: a combination of traffic floor and traffic cap—which can
ensure certainty as to the revenue streams of the private investor, while
preventing him from appropriating windfall gains due to
higher-than-expected traffic demand through an equitable risk and revenue
sharing mechanism. A traffic band being quite analogous to financial
options, the paper suggests use of a ‘put’ option held by
the concessionaire to determine the traffic floor, while a
‘call’ option held by the government serves as the traffic
ceiling. Application of the real options analogy to a real life case study
using binomial lattice method indicates enhancement to the net present
value of the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 771-779
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.597412
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.597412
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:771-779
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-Man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-Man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Ivan Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Ivan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Author-Name: Otto Muk-Fai Lau
Author-X-Name-First: Otto Muk-Fai
Author-X-Name-Last: Lau
Title: Speculative bubbles in mass and luxury properties: an investigation of the Hong Kong residential market
Abstract:
Fluctuations in housing prices not only affect the financial well-being
of corporations and households, but also influence the stability of
economies. One of the results derived from such fluctuations is known as
price bubbles. We aim to investigate whether such housing price bubbles
did exist in two different residential markets of Hong Kong. The results
indicate that there are bubbles in the Hong Kong housing markets before
2003, and later within the luxury market by 2008. As to what the
government could do to curb speculative activities with regard to housing,
the introduction of a capital gains tax on short-term transactions of
flats as well as a higher housing supply are regarded as effective means.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 781-793
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.610329
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.610329
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:781-793
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ioannis E. Tsolas
Author-X-Name-First: Ioannis E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tsolas
Title: Modelling profitability and effectiveness of Greek-listed construction firms: an integrated DEA and ratio analysis
Abstract:
Existing research on construction performance measurement is dominated by
project level studies, and the firm stakeholders require the development
of models that compare performance in terms of efficiency. A new framework
that integrates data envelopment analysis (DEA) and ratio analysis using a
two-step approach is described to evaluate performance in terms of
profitability and effectiveness of a sample of construction firms listed
on the Athens Exchange. In the first step, profitability and effectiveness
are assessed by employing DEA and by using the profit margin (i.e.
income-to-sales ratio), respectively. In the second step, a Tobit and an
ordinary least squares model are used in order to identify the drivers of
profitability efficiency and effectiveness, respectively. Results do point
out positive links between profitability efficiency and effectiveness.
Profitability inefficiency can be explained by the size and
expenses-to-total revenue ratio, whereas effectiveness can be explained
only by the latter explanatory variable. The research framework may
benefit not only Greek construction firms, but also firms in other
countries to quantify their performance and improve their competitive
advantages.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 795-807
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.610330
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.610330
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:795-807
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S.Z.S. Tabish
Author-X-Name-First: S.Z.S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabish
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: Identification and evaluation of success factors for public construction projects
Abstract:
Achieving success in public construction projects is difficult because it
requires economy, efficiency, quality, fairness and transparency. Such
projects are taken up on the requisition of owners/clients and almost
always involve multiple entities and are also accountable to external
financial audit and vigilance agencies. Identification of the success
factors is considered the key to achieving success in these projects.
Through an extensive literature review, 36 success attributes were
identified and a questionnaire-based survey was undertaken to elicit views
of professionals on these success attributes. The responses from 105
professionals with an average of 22 years of experience in public
construction projects in India were collected and analysed. The factor
analysis yielded four success factors: awareness of and compliance with
rules and regulations; pre-project planning and clarity in scope;
effective partnering among project participants; and external monitoring
and control. These four success factors were also used in multivariate
linear regression in order to explore their relative significance for
overall performance, and compliance with anti-corruption and financial
norms. The most significant factor for overall performance is awareness of
and compliance with rules and regulations. The results would be helpful to
public construction project professionals in taking proactive measures for
successful completion of public projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 809-823
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.611152
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.611152
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:809-823
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Henjewele
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Henjewele
Author-Name: Ming Sun
Author-X-Name-First: Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Sun
Author-Name: Peter Fewings
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fewings
Title: Critical parameters influencing value for money variations in PFI projects in the healthcare and transport sectors
Abstract:
Achieving good value for money (VFM) is the principal objective of any
private finance initiative (PFI) project while sustaining it throughout
the contract life is the greatest challenge. Empirical evidence is
required to understand uncertainties surrounding VFM of PFI before finding
effective ways to improve it. Variations in costs, time and client
requirements are explored, between successive review stages of PFI
projects from the strategic business case stage through to the operational
phase. The magnitudes of these variations are established and critical
parameters that influence them are identified. The research methods
include a documentary analysis of the full business cases of five PFI
projects and a questionnaire survey of 44 PFI projects from the healthcare
and transport sectors in the UK. The findings reveal that the current VFM
assessment of PFI projects is often carried out under conditions of
considerable uncertainty with frequent changes in costs, timescales and
client requirements. The list of critical parameters can help
practitioners to identify priority areas and achieve a long-lasting VFM.
The study broadens the understanding of whole life aspects of VFM of PFI
projects and the interactivity of project parameters at different stages.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 825-839
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.592204
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.592204
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:825-839
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Emrah Acar
Author-X-Name-First: Emrah
Author-X-Name-Last: Acar
Author-Name: Yasemin Göç
Author-X-Name-First: Yasemin
Author-X-Name-Last: Göç
Title: Prediction of risk perception by owners’ psychological traits in small building contractors
Abstract:
Risk decisions in small companies are not only based on the rational
evaluations of the likelihood and magnitude of risks, but also rely on the
personal traits of the owners, who are the dominant or single decision
makers in their organizations. The major hypothesis of this paper is that
risk management decisions in a small organization cannot be separated from
the personality of its owner. Studying the risk perception of owners may
be important to understand the ways they handle risky and ambiguous
situations across different domains and to devise project risk management
strategies that fit in with the particular needs of small companies.
Owners’ risk perception related to building projects was
statistically predicted by their psychological and demographic traits
along with a set of organizational variables. Statistical analyses of data
from 32 small general contractors specializing in residential and
commercial building construction portray the risk-taking profile of owners
and suggest that individuals with low risk propensity in health and
financial domains have a higher risk perception, which is also positively
associated with organizational size. These findings confirm the
domain-specific nature of risk taking and provide a basis to examine
thoroughly the project management strategies and actions at individual
level in the case of smaller companies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 841-852
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.611521
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.611521
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:841-852
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Colin C. Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Colin C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Author-Name: Sara J. Nadin
Author-X-Name-First: Sara J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nadin
Author-Name: Jan Windebank
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Windebank
Title: Undeclared work in the European construction industry: evidence from a 2007 Eurobarometer survey
Abstract:
A widespread assumption has been that undeclared work is rife in the
European construction industry. Despite this, there have been no
European-wide surveys of the prevalence and character of undeclared work
in this sector of the economy. To fill this gap, the findings are reported
of a 2007 Eurobarometer survey on undeclared work involving 26 659
face-to-face interviews undertaken in 27 European Union member states.
This reveals the widespread prevalence of undeclared work in the European
construction industry along with its heterogeneous forms and uneven
distribution both spatially and across different groups of the
construction workforce. It then evaluates what needs to be done to tackle
this problem. The argument is that doing nothing is seldom an option
because this leaves intact the existing negative impacts of undeclared
work on construction businesses, the construction workforce, customers and
governments. Pursuing the eradication of such work is neither effective
nor necessarily desirable since most governments wish to move such
endeavour into the declared realm rather than simply eradicate it. In
consequence, this paper advocates a policy approach of facilitating the
formalization of declared work and then details a range of preventative,
curative and commitment policy measures for achieving this in the European
construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 853-867
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.610331
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.610331
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:853-867
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Fenn
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fenn
Title: Mediation in the Construction Industry: An International Review
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 869-869
Issue: 8
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.602353
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.602353
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:8:p:869-869
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ernst Jan De Place Hansen
Author-X-Name-First: Ernst Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: De Place Hansen
Author-Name: Jacob Norvig Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Jacob Norvig
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Employment and winter construction: a comparative analysis of Denmark and western European countries with a similar
climate
Abstract:
Reduced seasonal building activity in the construction sector is often
assumed to be related to hard winter conditions for building activities
and poor working conditions for construction workers, resulting in higher
costs and poor quality of building products, particularly in the northern
hemisphere. Can climatic conditions alone explain the sizeable difference
in reduction in building activity in the construction sector in European
countries in the winter months, or are other factors such as technology,
economic cycles and schemes for financial compensation influential as
well? What possibilities exist for reducing seasonal variation in
employment? In addition to a literature review related to winter
construction, European and national employment and meteorological data
were studied. Finally, ministerial acts, ministerial orders or other
public policy documents related to winter construction were scrutinized in
order to identify and compare economic incentives and compensation schemes
intended to increase winter working in construction in Denmark and other
western European countries. Overall, economic development in the
construction sector and the level of compensation or the duration of
contracts for workers is more likely to explain differences in seasonal
activity than climatic or technological factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 875-890
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.617762
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.617762
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:875-890
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Title: Delivering best value in the small works portfolio of public sector organizations when using preferred contractors
Abstract:
The use of preferred contractors through a partnering arrangement is a
prominent method of relationship-based procurement. The approach is
frequently applied to managing the small works portfolio of public
authorities. While the apparent benefits to client organizations of
employing preferred contractors are widely known, questions surrounding
the timeliness, duration, risk, disruption, quality and cost of works in
the public sector are often rightly asked. The process and practices
involved in small works procurement and management are crucial to the
successful management of a public authority’s portfolio and they
are examined in this research with the support of three case studies. The
findings highlight that: the characteristics of small works, which are of
fundamental influence on their effective undertaking, are often
misunderstood; the criteria describing successful small works are not well
recognized; small works are sometimes inappropriately planned and
undertaken inefficiently; and the worksite environment and local
inhabitants are largely ignored when works are carried out. To improve the
procurement and management of individual small works and the wider small
works portfolio there must be better oversight practices during
procurement and throughout works administration by public authorities and
their contracted partners coupled with more effective management and
onsite supervision by contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 891-900
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.617377
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.617377
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:891-900
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Author-Name: CT Chockalingam
Author-X-Name-First: CT
Author-X-Name-Last: Chockalingam
Title: Prediction of schedule performance of Indian construction projects using an artificial neural network
Abstract:
Approximately 42% of Indian government-funded construction projects are
facing time overruns. With a number of challenging projects around the
corner, there is a definite need to overcome these delays. In an earlier
study conducted by one of the authors, 55 project performance attributes
were identified based on expert opinions and literature surveys, which
were subsequently reduced to 20 factors (11 success and nine failure
factors) using factor analysis. A second-stage questionnaire survey based
on these factors was used to identify the significant schedule performance
factors. The analysis of the survey responses led us to conclude that
factors such as: a project manager’s competence; monitoring and
feedback by project participants; commitment of all project participants;
owner’s competence; interaction between external project
participants; and good coordination between project participants
significantly affect schedule performance. The survey also provided the
basis for the development of a schedule performance prediction model. For
this, an artificial neural network (ANN) method was used to construct the
model, and the best was determined to be a 6-3-1 feed-forward neural
network based on a back-propagation algorithm with a mean absolute
percentage deviation (MAPD) of 11%. This enables project team members to
understand the factors they must monitor closely in order to complete the
projects on schedule and to predict performance throughout the course of
the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 901-911
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.608691
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.608691
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:901-911
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R. David Espinoza
Author-X-Name-First: R. David
Author-X-Name-Last: Espinoza
Title: Contingency estimating using option pricing theory: closing the gap between theory and practice
Abstract:
Valuation of contingency budgets for construction projects considering
technical and market uncertainties as well as the time it takes to execute
the project can be estimated using option pricing theory. Although option
pricing theory provides an attractive framework for calculation of
contingency budgets, it typically results in complex highly non-linear
partial differential equations that require the use of numerical
algorithms and computer intensive techniques, thus making it difficult for
practitioners to adopt this valuation technique. An attempt to bridge the
gap between theory and practice is made by proposing an equivalent linear
stochastic process to model the complex non-linear random variation with
time of the technical and market uncertainty for projects. The
approximation allows estimation of contingency budgets using either
closed-form solutions for pricing options, or the intuitive binomial
approach. To validate the proposed equivalent linear solution, its results
were compared to the solution to the non-linear partial differential
equation that governs the pricing of contingency budgets solved by Monte
Carlo simulations. A parametric study of the error shows that the proposed
approximation to estimate contingency budgets compares well with the
results obtained from simulation. The main advantages of the proposed
solution are its simplicity and straightforward implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 913-927
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.610328
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.610328
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:913-927
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Angela McCabe
Author-X-Name-First: Angela
Author-X-Name-Last: McCabe
Author-Name: Rachel Parker
Author-X-Name-First: Rachel
Author-X-Name-Last: Parker
Author-Name: Kerry Brown
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: Brown
Title: Social outcomes in the construction industry: the case of the Western Australian ‘Percent for Art’
policy
Abstract:
Social outcomes, in particular intangible social outcomes, are generally
difficult to achieve in the construction industry due to the predominantly
episodic, fragmented and heavily regulated nature of construction that
presupposes a tendency towards mainstream construction processes and
design. The Western Australian ‘Percent for Art’ policy is
recognized for stimulating social outcomes, by creating richer and more
aesthetically pleasing social environments through the incorporation of
artwork into public buildings. A case study of four Percent for Art
projects highlights the role of the Artwork Selection Committee in
incorporating artwork into construction. A total of 20 semi-structured
interviews were conducted with committee members and policy officers. Data
analysis involved a combination of pattern coding and matrix
categorization, and resulted in the identification of the
committee’s three key elements of collaborative communication,
democratic decision-making and project champions. The findings suggest
these key elements foster the interaction, communication and relationships
needed to facilitate feedback, enhance relationships, create
cross-functional teams and lower project resistance, which are all
necessary to overcome constraints to social outcomes in construction. The
findings provide greater insight into the mechanisms for achieving social
outcomes and a basis for future discussion about the processes for
achieving social outcomes in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 929-941
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.605794
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.605794
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:929-941
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: The overworked site manager: gendered ideologies in the construction industry
Abstract:
Organizations are sites where gendered ideologies are established and
played out and in the case of the construction industry there is a strong
underrepresentation of women and ethnic minorities in certain positions
such as site managers. Masculine ideologies here denote the totality of
norms, belief and assumptions that serve to enact specific images of e.g.
leadership work. In the case of the Swedish construction industry, the
site manager role is enacted as a paternal figure having full control of
the situation, always in the position to take care of emerging and
unforeseen events, and spending long hours at work. Such site management
role is thus reproducing gender ideologies, imposing expectations on
individual site managers, and erecting entry barriers for e.g. women or
individuals not willing to forsake family life. The managerial
implications are that the construction industry needs to critically
evaluate what demands are put on site managers and how to create more
balanced leadership positions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 943-955
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.588955
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.588955
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:943-955
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sanjay Sampat Wakchaure
Author-X-Name-First: Sanjay Sampat
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakchaure
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: Prioritization of bridges for maintenance planning using data envelopment analysis
Abstract:
Resources—especially funds allotted—for the maintenance of
bridges, are generally scanty. Thus, it becomes difficult to select
bridges for maintenance from among several competing bridges to ensure
their safety and serviceability to the desired level. A bridge health
index is considered a reasonably accurate depiction of the condition of a
bridge and hence is the basis for most of the decisions on fund
allocation. However, it still remains to be seen whether such a
decision-making tool results in an efficient fund allocation. From data
collected on Indian bridges, it is observed that fund allocation based on
bridge condition is not always judicious. Rather, a number of factors
affect the final decision on fund allocation. Hence, an alternative
approach of data envelopment analysis (DEA) has been used for scoring the
efficiency of 14 bridges selected for the study. Depending on the
availability of data, this method can take into account other factors
besides the bridge health index that influence decisions on maintenance
planning. The variables selected for the DEA are: bridge health index,
deck area of the bridge, maintenance cost of the bridge, and the age of
the bridge. The allocation of funds for the maintenance of bridges based
on DEA has proved to be comparatively more efficient. This has been
illustrated with the help of a numerical example. The proposed method
would enable bridge authorities to formulate better strategies for
planning and executing bridge maintenance activities in a cost-effective
manner.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 957-968
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.614267
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.614267
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:957-968
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Forecasting construction demand: a vector error correction model with dummy variables
Abstract:
Modelling the level of demand for construction is vital in policy
formulation and implementation as the construction industry plays an
important role in a country’s economic development process. In
construction economics, research efforts on construction demand modelling
and forecasting are various, but few researchers have considered the
impact of global economy events in construction demand modelling. An
advanced multivariate modelling technique, namely the vector error
correction (VEC) model with dummy variables, was adopted to predict demand
in the Australian construction market. The results of prediction accuracy
tests suggest that the general VEC model and the VEC model with dummy
variables are both acceptable for forecasting construction economic
indicators. However, the VEC model that considers external impacts
achieves higher prediction accuracy than the general VEC model. The model
estimates indicate that the growth in population, changes in national
income, fluctuations in interest rates and changes in householder
expenditure all play significant roles when explaining variations in
construction demand. The VEC model with disturbances developed can serve
as an experimentation using an advanced econometrical method which can be
used to analyse the effect of specific events or factors on the
construction market growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 969-979
Issue: 9
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.611522
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.611522
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:9:p:969-979
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: S.Z.S. Tabish
Author-X-Name-First: S.Z.S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabish
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: The impact of anti-corruption strategies on corruption free performance in public construction projects
Abstract:
Despite extensive efforts, corruption in public procurement has reached
epidemic proportions and has become one of the major challenges for
management. Because corrupt practices mostly occur under wraps, the task
of combating corruption becomes even more difficult. In the course of a
review of the extant literature on the theme a number of independent
constructs with the potential to develop anti-corruption strategies have
been identified. A research model was developed on the basis of the
hypothesis that anti-corruption strategies lead to corruption free
performance in public construction projects. A questionnaire survey was
administered and 105 responses were collected. ‘Anti-corruption
strategies’ was defined as a second order construct composed of
four latent constructs: leadership, rules and regulations, training and
fear of punishment. The structural equation modelling (SEM) technique was
used to test the hypothesized positive inter-relations between
anti-corruption strategies and corruption free performance. The
significance of the role of management leadership, rules and regulations,
training, as well as fear of punishment is highlighted to help policy
makers and construction institutions in understanding the role of various
anti-corruption strategies in public construction projects so that they
may contribute to this important endeavour in achieving the goal of
promoting economy, efficiency, quality, fairness and transparency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-35
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654128
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:21-35
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdul-Rashid Abdul-Aziz
Author-X-Name-First: Abdul-Rashid
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul-Aziz
Title: Control mechanisms exercised in Malaysian housing public-private partnerships
Abstract:
There is a dearth of publications on the actual implementation of housing
public-private partnerships (PPPs), especially in developing countries.
Control mechanisms used by public agencies in Malaysia under PPP
arrangements to ensure private partner compliance were examined. The
governance archetypes which prevailed in the PPP relationships were also
identified. The control mechanisms typology prepared by management
accounting scholars was used as the theoretical framework. Qualitative
data, mainly from informants, were collected from 10 public agencies using
the multi-case approach. The case studies were found to adopt specific
control mechanisms when choosing suitable partners (exploratory phase),
crafting the agreement (contract phase) and firming up control activities
(execution phase). These mechanisms are associated with bureaucracy and
hybrid governance archetypes, but not the market governance archetype.
Recommendations to improve the effectiveness of certain control mechanisms
deployed by the case studies are presented at the end of the paper. Public
agencies in Malaysia and abroad which share the same housing PPP variant
as Malaysia’s are recommended to adopt transferable best practices
contained within the respective control mechanisms. Construction
management scholars should consider adopting the control mechanism
typology for their own research undertakings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 37-55
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654129
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654129
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:37-55
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ximing Ruan
Author-X-Name-First: Ximing
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruan
Author-Name: Edward G. Ochieng
Author-X-Name-First: Edward G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ochieng
Author-Name: Andrew D.F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew D.F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Author-Name: Charles O. Egbu
Author-X-Name-First: Charles O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Egbu
Title: Knowledge integration process in construction projects: a social network analysis approach to compare competitive
and collaborative working
Abstract:
Research on knowledge integration across organizational boundaries is
still very limited because of the assumption that knowledge is a critical
asset, which should be secured within organizational boundaries. A variety
of knowledge management frameworks have presented the same common
characteristics, including information sharing as the basis for knowledge
management, a supportive culture, trust and proximity. Social network
analysis is used to examine the knowledge integration process in
collaborative and competitive working systems on four case study projects
based on public sector organizations. This involved shadowing participants
and conducting interviews. Participants were selected from a set of
functional teams according to their role. Five participants were
interviewed from each project in order to check the validity and
reliability of the data. The knowledge integration patterns are presented
by quantitative methods using the social network analysis approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 5-19
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654127
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654127
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:5-19
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pertti Lahdenperä
Author-X-Name-First: Pertti
Author-X-Name-Last: Lahdenperä
Title: Making sense of the multi-party contractual arrangements of project partnering, project alliancing and integrated
project delivery
Abstract:
Collaborative construction project arrangements have been the subject of
many development efforts owing to the frustration felt toward the
opportunism inherent in traditional contracting. Globally, three
approaches have stood out: project partnering, project alliancing and
integrated project delivery. These so-called relational project delivery
arrangements have much in common. This study aims to clarify the
similarities and differences between the arrangements by examining their
key concepts and features one by one and in relation to each other; the
motivation behind each is also examined. Early involvement of key parties,
transparent financials, shared risk and reward, joint decision-making, and
a collaborative multi-party agreement are some of the features
incorporated in all the arrangements to a varying degree. Beyond the
numerous details, divergent applications and constant evolution presented,
the study also recognizes project alliancing as a project delivery system
in its own right due to its contractual structure that integrated project
delivery aims to imitate while introducing some management approaches not
included in project alliancing. Project partnering, although developed in
leaps and bounds since its introduction, takes a more conservative
approach to work scope and liabilities. Similarly, project alliancing
takes relational contracting to the extreme compared to the current forms
of integrated project delivery and, especially, project partnering.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 57-79
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.648947
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.648947
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:57-79
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David William Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: David William
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Title: An overview of component unit pricing theory
Abstract:
Component unit pricing (CUP) theory presents a fresh approach to item
pricing, described as the process of distributing the overall price among
its constituent component items. This theory provides explanation and
proof that different distributions of mark-up among the items of a project
produce different levels of reward for contractors, while exposing them to
different degrees of risk. The theory describes the three identified
sources of these rewards, namely those of improved cash flow, escalation
in compensation and valuations of likely variations. In addition, it also
provides the first explanation of the three risks involved, namely the
risk of ‘rejection’, the risk of ‘reaction’
and the risk of ‘being wrong’. In combination, it provides a
means by which both the rewards as well as these risks can now be measured
given any pricing scenario. This theory gives effect to fuzzy constraints
on the price of each item, providing a scientific basis by which to
identify more extreme prices when pursuing more profit and more restrained
prices when seeking to reduce risk. Overall, it provides a basis by which
to moderate these two objectives in the pursuit of the maximization of a
contractor’s utility. A test on a hypothetical project indicates an
improvement of more than 150% on utility, if a contractor applies this
theory, compared to the position when balanced prices are used instead.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 81-92
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.648948
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.648948
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:81-92
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Corporate Strategy in Construction: Understanding Today’s Theory and Practice
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 93-95
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.648946
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.648946
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:93-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Title: Harvesting and Managing Knowledge in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 95-97
Issue: 1
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.651482
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.651482
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:1:p:95-97
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberta Pellegrino
Author-X-Name-First: Roberta
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellegrino
Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Author-Name: Silvio Sancilio
Author-X-Name-First: Silvio
Author-X-Name-Last: Sancilio
Title: Construction of multi-storey concrete structures in Italy: patterns of productivity and learning curves
Abstract:
The achievement of expected site productivity is one of the main
characteristics of successfully completed projects. The productivity rates
of concrete construction according to the learning curve theory are
discussed in this paper. The study builds upon the records of variable
productivity rates achieved in the erection of 15 multi-storey concrete
structures in Southern Italy and the discussion of the factors behind such
variability. In this last regard, a multilevel regression analysis
identifies the most important factors. The repetitive work that
characterizes these structures provides distinct opportunities for
productivity enhancement. Learning curve theory is applied to quantify
such an improvement by using a straight-line model. The quantification of
learning rates, ranging from 85% to 95%, is useful for the labour cost and
time planning of future concrete structures in the region. In the case of
Italian sites, the application of the learning curve would be more
beneficial if more effort were spent in the planning and control of the
initial construction site operations and in the constructability analysis
of design documents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 103-115
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.660776
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.660776
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:103-115
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-Man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-Man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Tony K.K. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: Tony K.K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Author-Name: Jia Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Jia
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Ziyou Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ziyou
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Housing and consumer markets in urban China
Abstract:
In China, the real estate sector has been one of the most powerful
driving forces in economic development over the past two decades. The
housing sector, particularly, has a strong wealth effect on consumption.
This has attracted much attention not only in academia but also in society
at large. Yet little is known about the relationship between housing and
consumption in urban China. An investigation into the causal relationship
between the money flow of the housing market and that of the consumer
market for local citizens in urban China applies a recently developed
method: renormalized partial directed coherence (renormalized PDC). This
is an advanced tool to exclude the indirect relationships between the
housing and consumer markets. Since the original renormalized PDC cannot
show the result numerically, we quantify the relationships by developing a
set of criteria for further discussion within the renormalized PDC
framework. The empirical work reveals two major findings: (1) the retail
price level is quite useful in predicting the housing turnover-income
ratio; (2) the rental price is one of the most important factors affecting
the fluctuation of retail prices for the case of urban areas in China. A
housing turnover-income ratio (HTIR) is developed to evaluate the money
flow into the housing market, which provides a new way to carry out data
analysis when the usual indicators might be inappropriate. The research
provides a reference point for economic policymaking for the relationship
between the money flow into the housing market and the money flow into the
consumer market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 117-131
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654130
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654130
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:117-131
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sanjay S. Wakchaure
Author-X-Name-First: Sanjay S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakchaure
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: Determination of bridge health index using analytical hierarchy process
Abstract:
Owners of bridges all over the world are facing the task of maintaining
them within limited resources. The allocation of resources among the
competing deteriorating bridges is a difficult task. Bridge health indices
are used for deciding the priority of bridges for maintenance, and for the
allocation of resources. Ascertaining the relative importance of bridge
components is a prime requirement in the development of the indices. Based
on the available literature and preliminary discussions with experts in
this field, the bridge components were grouped into seven categories and a
questionnaire was developed. The responses to the questionnaire were used
in the analytical hierarchy process for deciding the weights (relative
importance) of each bridge component. Consequently, based on the
literature review, different condition states were defined, and a
quantification of different distress types, corresponding to each of the
condition states, was made. The weights and condition states of different
bridge components were used to develop a bridge health index. The
condition states were obtained using visual inspection, according to the
definition. The index can be applied easily by different stakeholders for
ranking a number of bridges in a bridge stock for maintenance actions,
thereby optimizing resources.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 133-149
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.658075
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.658075
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:133-149
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Huimin Li
Author-X-Name-First: Huimin
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Zhuofu Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhuofu
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Transaction-related issues and construction project performance
Abstract:
Transaction cost economics deals with costs incurred at the pre-contract
phase such as the costs of conducting market research, exploring financial
opportunities, conducting a feasibility study, organizing a
bidding/negotiation and managing design; and with costs incurred in the
post-contract phase such as the costs of administering the contract,
administering change orders and claims, resolving disputes and managing
incentives. Many researchers have investigated the factors that affect
project performance over the years, but neglected to consider
transaction-related issues. The effects of transaction-related issues on
project performance are investigated in this study. Project performance is
measured on the basis of completion within budget and on schedule,
compliance with quality standards, and satisfaction of the owner.
Transaction-related issues include the magnitude of transaction costs, the
uncertainty in the transaction environment, and the owner’s and the
contractor’s roles in the transaction. Hypotheses are tested by
using a structural equation model using data collected from a survey
administered to construction owners. The findings indicate that project
performance can be stronger if the uncertainty in the transaction
environment is minimized, transaction costs are kept low, and owners and
contractors are sensitive to transaction-related issues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 151-164
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655254
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655254
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:151-164
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Katie Shawn Dewlaney
Author-X-Name-First: Katie Shawn
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewlaney
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Prevention through design and construction safety management strategies for high performance sustainable building
construction
Abstract:
Recent studies have found that Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) buildings have a higher injury rate than traditional
non-LEED buildings and that 12 of the LEED credits increase risks for
construction workers. The objective was to identify and describe risk
mitigation strategies that reduce the safety risk associated with the
design and construction of high performance sustainable projects by
conducting extensive interviews with experienced designers and
constructors. Fortunately, feasible prevention techniques through design
and construction safety management strategies exist and can be used to
mitigate the safety risk associated with the design features and means and
methods of construction used to achieve LEED certification. Most commonly,
designers and contractors identified prefabrication, effective site layout
and alternative products as methods to prevent injuries that specifically
relate to the hazards of each sustainable element. The results of the
interviews and results from previous research were organized into a
decision support tool built in Adobe LiveCycle. Practitioners may use the
findings and the tool to enhance safety for construction workers, an
aspect of sustainability that is not currently addressed in the LEED
Program. Researchers may also use the techniques described as a starting
point for lifecycle safety analyses for sustainable buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 165-177
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654232
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654232
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:165-177
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: Managing Change in Construction Projects: A Knowledge-based Approach
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 179-180
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655751
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655751
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:179-180
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Connaughton
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Connaughton
Title: Who Needs Migrant Workers? Labour Shortages, Immigration, and Public Policy
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 180-183
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655249
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655249
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:180-183
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Allan Ashworth
Author-X-Name-First: Allan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ashworth
Title: The Impact of Building Information Modelling: Transforming Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-185
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655250
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655250
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:183-185
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fang Dongping
Author-X-Name-First: Fang
Author-X-Name-Last: Dongping
Author-Name: Wang Tao
Author-X-Name-First: Wang
Author-X-Name-Last: Tao
Title: Green Buildings and the Law
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 185-187
Issue: 2
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655251
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655251
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:2:p:185-187
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pim M. A. Polesie
Author-X-Name-First: Pim M. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Polesie
Title: Reducing the use of resources in medium-sized Swedish construction enterprises: production managers’ views
Abstract:
What construction firms do—and do not do—to reduce the use
of resources in construction projects is explored by adopting production
managers’ views of their firms’ onsite activities. A
literature review and empirical data are combined; 15 production managers
have been asked how they perceived their company’s compliance with
31 recommendations to reduce the use of resources. The managers perceived
their firms to primarily focus on identifying their customers’ real
needs, stimulating employees to undertake further education, and striving
for long-term customer--supplier relationships. In contrast, they
perceived that less attention was directed to making use of all of the
week’s hours, to supporting their main suppliers in their
development, and planning feedback and training after project completion.
The use of resources is examined by focusing on the perceived low priority
given to gathering information and knowledge, as well as to reducing time
and the need for long-term relationships with customers in contrast to
short-term relationships with suppliers. The managers adopted a
project-specific approach mainly to the use of material resources. A more
holistic view of resources could enable the development of novel solutions
in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 193-202
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.658823
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.658823
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:193-202
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Manuel Schoenwitz
Author-X-Name-First: Manuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Schoenwitz
Author-Name: Mohamed Naim
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Naim
Author-Name: Andrew Potter
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Potter
Title: The nature of choice in mass customized house building
Abstract:
There is a need to explore the actual uptake of specification options by
clients in the context of the self-build housing industry. In so doing all
the components in a house that can be customized were categorized so as to
highlight the features that must be customizable and those that can be
standardized. Through a longitudinal study of a German house builder, data
from 16 projects over a 35-year time horizon have been collected. The
extent of choice made in these projects has been determined by comparing
the original standard building specification with the actual finalized
fit-out specification of the project. In scrutinizing the collected data
it became apparent that the number of changes made by the clients
increased considerably over the timespan studied. More importantly,
clients appreciated the freedom of choice as they were prepared to spend
increasing amounts on customization. In particular specification options
were made in the sanitary, internal design and façade categories.
Moreover the results revealed that offering a high degree of choice is
appropriate for most, but not all, components for the case house builder.
Key areas for choice include those relating to sanitary ware and the
façade.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 203-219
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.664277
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.664277
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:203-219
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ranon Chotibhongs
Author-X-Name-First: Ranon
Author-X-Name-Last: Chotibhongs
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Analysis of collusive bidding behaviour
Abstract:
Researchers have attempted to develop methods that detect collusive
bidding. But no method can detect collusion with certainty unless it is
based on legal evidence. A method is proposed to detect collusive bidding
behaviour that improves the performance of previous methods. It analyses
the historical bidding data provided by a construction owner in a two-step
approach which is mainly based on a multiple regression model. The first
step involves identifying the potential cartel bidders using the residual
test and the cost structure stability test developed in earlier work. The
second step is the focus of this paper and involves comparing the
behaviour of the potential cartel bidders and non-cartel bidders by
analysing bid distributions, their cost dispersion, and the differences in
their cost structures. After conducting the second step of the study, it
was found that the suspected cartel bidders identified in Step 1 behaved
in ways to confirm collusion. Also, in an unrelated search, it was found
that two of the six potential cartel bidders who were identified in this
study had been audited by the public agency for bid fraud, and that
another potential cartel bidder had been found guilty by the courts and
forbidden from doing business with the public agency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 221-231
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.661443
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.661443
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:221-231
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Steven Devaney
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Devaney
Author-Name: Deb Roberts
Author-X-Name-First: Deb
Author-X-Name-Last: Roberts
Title: Who gets the jobs? Factors influencing the employability of property and construction graduates in the UK
Abstract:
Against a background of a strongly performing property market, the last
decade saw a significant rise in numbers of entrants to undergraduate and
postgraduate built environment programmes in the UK. The growth in
postgraduate numbers reflected the emergence of conversion programmes with
the result that, across a range of built environment pathways, employers
can choose between different types of graduate: those straight from an
undergraduate degree, those who have completed an additional postgraduate
course or those who have taken, following a first degree in another
discipline, a conversion programme in property or construction at
postgraduate level. A bivariate probit modelling approach is used to
explore whether having a postgraduate taught (PGT) qualification
systematically improves the probability of finding graduate level
employment. Different built environment programmes are considered, while
controlling for other factors that may influence employment outcomes,
including university type, mode of study, gender, ethnicity and age. The
results suggest that a postgraduate degree in land and property management
significantly increases the probability of gaining graduate level
employment, but this is not so for construction, quantity surveying or
building surveying. The findings are discussed in the wider context of
changes in UK higher education.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 233-246
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.654233
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.654233
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:233-246
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Lind
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Lind
Title: Sustainable Buildings in Practice: What the Users Think
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 247-248
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655252
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655252
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:247-248
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pierre Bonnal
Author-X-Name-First: Pierre
Author-X-Name-Last: Bonnal
Title: Project Management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 248-250
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.655253
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.655253
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:248-250
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: The Architecture of Information: Architecture, Interaction Design and the Patterning of Digital Information
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 250-251
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.656134
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.656134
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:250-251
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Pichura
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Pichura
Title: The Architect’s Portfolio: Planning, Design, Production
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 252-253
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.656670
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.656670
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:252-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michele Lancione
Author-X-Name-First: Michele
Author-X-Name-Last: Lancione
Title: Architecture in the Space of Flows
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 253-255
Issue: 3
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.663095
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.663095
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:3:p:253-255
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chung-Fah Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Chung-Fah
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Ho-Chi Lien
Author-X-Name-First: Ho-Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lien
Title: An empirical analysis of the influences of corporate social responsibility on organizational performance of
Taiwan’s construction industry: using corporate image as a mediator
Abstract:
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a hot issue for modern
enterprises recently. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate
the relationships of CSR and organizational performance. The secondary
purpose was to determine whether the effect of CSR on organizational
performance could be mediated by corporate image. To fulfil the primary
purpose, a questionnaire-based survey was used to measure CSR, corporate
image and overall organizational performance in Taiwan’s
construction industry. Two hundred and eighty-one valid samples were
collected and statistically analysed using factor analysis, correlation
analysis and hierarchical regression analysis. The analysis results
suggest that CSR is positively correlated with corporate image and
organizational performance. Additionally, levels of corporate image are
positively associated with organizational performance levels. The results
also indicate that corporate image may serve as a mediator between CSR and
organizational performance, meaning that companies benefit from investment
in CSR realization, even if they also have a positive corporate image.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 263-275
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668620
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668620
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:263-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy Michael Rose
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Rose
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Title: Adoption of innovative products on Australian road infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Product innovation is an important contributor to the performance of
infrastructure projects in the construction industry. Maximizing the
potential for innovative product adoption is a challenging task due to the
complexities of the construction innovation system. A qualitative
methodology involving interviews with major construction project
stakeholders is employed to address the research question: ‘What
are the main obstacles to the adoption of innovative products in the road
industry?’ The characteristics of six key product innovation
obstacles in Australian road projects are described. The six key obstacles
are: project goal misalignment, client pressures, weak contractual
relations, lack of product trialling, inflexible product specifications
and product liability concerns. A snapshot of the dynamics underlying
these obstacles is provided. There are few such assessments in the
literature, despite the imperative to improve construction innovation
rates globally in order to deliver road infrastructure projects of
increasing size and complexity. Key obstacles are interpreted through an
open innovation construct, providing direction for policy to enhance the
uptake of innovation across the construction product supply network. Early
evidence suggests the usefulness of an open innovation construct that
integrates three conceptual lenses: network governance, absorptive
capacity and knowledge intermediation, in order to interpret product
adoption obstacles in the context of Australian road infrastructure
projects. The paper also provides practical advice and direction for
government and industry organizations that wish to promote the flow of
innovative product knowledge across the construction supply network.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 277-298
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.665173
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.665173
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:277-298
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Greenwood
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Greenwood
Author-Name: Shuwei Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Shuwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Title: Establishing the association between collaborative working and construction project performance based on client and
contractor perceptions
Abstract:
The assumption that forms of collaborative working (for example,
partnering) can have a substantial beneficial impact on project
performance underlies many of the proposed reform agendas in the UK
construction sector. The majority of supporting evidence is, however,
either anecdotal or limited to individual cases. This shortfall is
addressed and aspects of project performance are evaluated relative to
different degrees of collaborative working. To achieve this,
project performance and collaborative
working were first analysed into identified constituents. For
clarity, these were referred to as attributes (of
collaborative working) and indicators (in the case of
project performance). This permitted the operationalization of the two
concepts into a more measurable format. Data from 44 projects were
evaluated. The results indicate a positive linear relationship between
collaborative working and project performance. Further, by seeking
associations between these disaggregated attributes (of collaborative
working) and indicators (of project performance) a richer picture emerged
of how the association between the two headline concepts might possibly be
explained. Aside from its theoretical contribution, the work has a
practical implication in terms of how project performance might be
improved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 299-308
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.666801
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.666801
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:299-308
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Derek Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Ammar Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: Ammar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Author-Name: Laura Pronk
Author-X-Name-First: Laura
Author-X-Name-Last: Pronk
Author-Name: Chaham Alalouch
Author-X-Name-First: Chaham
Author-X-Name-Last: Alalouch
Title: The use of freelisting to elicit stakeholder understanding of the benefits sought from healthcare buildings
Abstract:
The process of elicitation and synthesis of the collective understanding
of a cultural domain held by a group of stakeholders is challenging. This
problem typifies the pre-project activity from which a coherent
understanding of the benefits sought from infrastructure investment must
emerge to inform the business case rationale. The anthropological
freelisting method is evaluated as a solution by determining its ability
to be operationalized in a practical form for project application. Using
data from the stakeholders of a large NHS Scotland building project, the
use of multidimensional scaling for data analysis is compared with
participatory pilesorting to determine which freelisting protocol balances
insight with practicality. Neither approach is found to offer an ideal
method of characterizing sought benefits. The social construction of
pilesorting promotes reliability while the analytical rigour of
multidimensional scaling remains attractive to auditors. Their distinct
insights suggest that both approaches should be combined in future and
used alongside further post-elicitation devices from anthropology such as
cultural consensus modelling or structured conceptualization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 309-323
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.658824
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.658824
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:309-323
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Allan
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Allan
Title: Climate and Architecture Torben Dahl (ed.), Routledge, London, 2010 168 pp., ISBN 978 0 415 56309 3,
£25.99 (pb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 325-328
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.666800
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.666800
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:325-328
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joseph Voros
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph
Author-X-Name-Last: Voros
Title: Constructing Futures: Industry Leaders and Futures Thinking in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 328-331
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.665170
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.665170
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:328-331
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Title: Contemporary Issues in Construction in Developing Countries
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 331-333
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.665171
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.665171
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:331-333
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: William Ibbs
Author-X-Name-First: William
Author-X-Name-Last: Ibbs
Title: Commercial Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 333-334
Issue: 4
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.665172
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.665172
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:4:p:333-334
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mattias Jacobsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mattias
Author-X-Name-Last: Jacobsson
Author-Name: Henrik C.J. Linderoth
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik C.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Linderoth
Title: User perceptions of ICT impacts in Swedish construction companies: ‘it’s fine, just as it is’
Abstract:
The use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in
construction companies has been growing steadily during the last decade.
However, few studies inquire into either perceptions of the impact of
actual ICT use or perceptions among different occupational groups in
construction companies. The aim of the paper is to explore users’
general perceptions of ICT impacts in the post-adoption stage and analyse
the implications for construction management practice. A mixed methods
approach was used. Quantitative data were collected using a web-based
survey both in a major construction company and among medium-sized
companies in Sweden. Data from 294 returned completed questionnaires were
analysed with t-tests and multiple regression analysis. In addition,
participant observations and semi-structured interviews were conducted
within the major construction company in order to strengthen the analysis.
It can be concluded that respondents are generally fairly satisfied with
the ICT. Differences in perceptions among occupational groups can be
explained by the nature of work tasks and the original intentions for
using ICT as a means of control and calculation. Even if respondents
perceive that a further development of ICT could improve competitiveness,
they do not want to increase their use of it in their workplaces. They
basically think that ‘it is fine, just as it is’. This
indicates that a challenge in construction management is to investigate
how prevailing and new ICT applications can be used to develop the
industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 339-357
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.672757
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.672757
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:339-357
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lennon H.T. Choy
Author-X-Name-First: Lennon H.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Choy
Author-Name: Winky K.O. Ho
Author-X-Name-First: Winky K.O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ho
Author-Name: Stephen W.K. Mak
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen W.K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mak
Title: Housing attributes and Hong Kong real estate prices: a quantile regression analysis
Abstract:
By nature, people’s tastes and preferences are unique and diverse
so that a constant coefficient of each housing attribute produced by
ordinary least squares (OLS) is not able to fully describe the behaviour
of homebuyers of different classes. To complement the least squares,
quantile regression is used to identify how real estate prices respond
differently to a change in one unit of housing attribute at different
quantiles. Theoretically, quantile regression can be utilized to estimate
the implicit price for each housing attribute across the distribution of
real estate prices, allowing specific percentiles of prices to be more
influenced by certain housing attributes when compared to other
percentiles. Empirical results demonstrate that most housing attributes,
such as apartment size, age and floor level, command different prices at
different quantiles. With the use of this approach, the efficiency of the
mortgage markets is enhanced by offering more accurate prediction of real
estate prices at the lower and upper price distribution.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 359-366
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.677542
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.677542
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:359-366
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Title: Designing for construction workers’ occupational health and safety: a case study of socio-material complexity
Abstract:
Drawing upon an empirical analysis of the design and construction of a
food processing facility, a theoretical understanding of the impact of
design decision-making on the occupational health and safety (OHS) of
construction workers is developed. It is argued that current policy and
legislative approaches to Construction Hazard Prevention through Design
(CHPtD) are inherently limited because they do not adequately reflect the
socio-material complexity of decision-making in construction design.
Specifically, the simplistic attribution of responsibility to a single
socio-technical actor, ‘the designer’, does not reflect the
multiple and disparate influences that impact upon OHS outcomes. Nor do
existing CHPtD policy frameworks, management processes and tools recognize
the manner in which the interactions and associations between relevant
project stakeholders and various non-human artefacts shape (and are also
influenced by) the evolution of design decisions. Drawing on actor-network
theory (ANT) and using embedded units within a case study approach, the
interactions between human actors and non-human artefacts are explored in
relation to the design of four components of the food processing facility.
The way in which design decisions unfolded and shaped OHS experiences
during the construction stage of the project is revealed. The research
highlights limitations inherent in current approaches to the management of
CHPtD and the need to develop a more robust theoretically based approach
to integrating OHS considerations into construction design practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 367-382
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.667569
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.667569
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:367-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daria Zimina
Author-X-Name-First: Daria
Author-X-Name-Last: Zimina
Author-Name: Glenn Ballard
Author-X-Name-First: Glenn
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballard
Author-Name: Christine Pasquire
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasquire
Title: Target value design: using collaboration and a lean approach to reduce construction cost
Abstract:
Target costing is an effective management technique that has been used in
manufacturing for decades to achieve cost predictability during new
product development. Adoption of this technique promises benefits for the
construction industry as it struggles to raise the number of successful
outcomes and certainty of project delivery in terms of cost, quality and
time. Target value design is a management approach that takes the best
features of target costing and adapts them to the peculiarities of
construction. The concept of target value design is introduced based on
the results of action research carried out on 12 construction projects in
the USA. It has been shown that systemic application of target value
design leads to significant improvement of project performance—the
final cost of projects was on average 15% less than market cost. The
construction industry already has approaches that have similarities with
elements of the target value design process or use the same terminology,
e.g. partnering and target cost contracts, cost planning, etc. Following
an exploration of the similarities and differences target value design is
positioned as a form of target costing for construction that offers a more
reliable route to successful project outcomes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-398
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.676658
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.676658
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:383-398
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Li
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Xuerong Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xuerong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Zhaohan Sheng
Author-X-Name-First: Zhaohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Sheng
Title: Achieving ambidexterity in large, complex engineering projects: a case study of the Sutong Bridge project
Abstract:
Complex engineering projects typically face unique challenges that demand
both exploring innovative solutions and exploiting existing capabilities.
However, it is difficult to manage both exploitation and exploration in
the same organizational unit owing to the different organizational support
required for each. The solutions to managing the tension involve
separating the two approaches into separate organizational
units—structural separation, or separating by time—temporal
separation, or by creating an organizational context that empowers
employees to pursue both. Structural separation may not work because of
the predominant need for integration at project level due to the
fragmented nature of the construction industry and the co-location of
project team. Instead, temporal separation could be an effective mechanism
of separation. Creating the appropriate project context could facilitate
project ambidexterity. Extant studies on ambidexterity focus on the
organizational level which may not apply at project level. This study
examines the effects of the above three antecedents to project
ambidexterity. The key findings are that ambidexterity can be achieved
during the limited lifespan of a complex engineering project through: (1)
partitioning the two approaches in different project phases and then
integrating the two; (2) implementing policies and financial support
aiming at facilitating contextual ambidexterity both at and above project
level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 399-409
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.679948
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.679948
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:399-409
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Brockmann
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Brockmann
Title: Managing Construction Logistics
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 411-414
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.675439
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.675439
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:411-414
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Chinowsky
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinowsky
Title: Collaborative Working in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 414-415
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.667136
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.667136
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:414-415
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Ivory
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Ivory
Title: Images of Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 415-416
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.667137
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.667137
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:415-416
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kjell Tryggestad
Author-X-Name-First: Kjell
Author-X-Name-Last: Tryggestad
Title: Perspectives on Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 416-420
Issue: 5
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.667568
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.667568
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:5:p:416-420
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Qian Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Qian
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Author-Name: Jian Zuo
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Zuo
Author-Name: George Zillante
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Zillante
Title: Exploring the management of sustainable construction at the programme level: a Chinese case study
Abstract:
Sustainable construction is achieved by the implementation of sustainable
development principles in the construction industry. The complexity and
higher level of inter-project conflicts that occur in large-scale projects
mean that the implementation of sustainable construction in those projects
is substantially different from that in smaller scale projects. A case
study approach has been adopted to analyse the planning and implementation
of sustainable construction in the Shanghai World Expo 2010 across the
entire programme lifecycle. As one of the largest programmes in China, the
Shanghai World Expo 2010 has the potential to serve as a showcase for the
application of sustainable development principles in construction. The key
factors that need to be considered in order to promote sustainable
construction at the programme level are identified. These include the
establishment of a dedicated department to coordinate various
stakeholders’ efforts and the release of conceptual guidelines and
management regulations. In addition, a framework is proposed to implement
sustainable construction at the programme management level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 425-440
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.683200
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.683200
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:425-440
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Author-Name: David Bentley
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Bentley
Title: A critique of conceptions of design and management in construction projects
Abstract:
Construction is about changing the world in the future from our
intentions. This involves organizing and manipulating the physical and
social world through design, management and craft. These require thinking
about the desired end product but also the means of achieving it. Thinking
is set in social norms, here called pre-conceptualizations, which
configure our conceptions and give them social validity, forming
expectations of what can happen and how to improve it. The conventional
pre-conceptualization of construction design and management is critiqued
using a case study. This pre-conceptualization is shown to be backward
looking where the future is assumed to be like the past and knowledge is
ascribed to individuals. The causes of failure then appear evident and
knowable inducing maladaptive management and blame of individuals.
However, design/management is in reality forward looking; events cannot be
seen with such significance looking into the future. Two alternative
pre-conceptualizations are presented and their implications explored. The
first acknowledges evolution, which works against intent, thus explaining
deviations. The second involves complexity science where intentions are
emergent phenomena and socially constituted, thus explaining improvisation
and improvement. In conclusion, new pre-conceptualizations are required to
avoid blame cultures, facilitate creative solutions and develop enduring
improvements.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 441-454
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.688136
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.688136
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:441-454
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Will Jennings
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Jennings
Title: Why costs overrun: risk, optimism and uncertainty in budgeting for the London 2012 Olympic Games
Abstract:
The systematic under-estimation of costs in budgeting for large-scale
projects raises the vexing question of why there are such incongruities
between the projections made at initial stages and the eventual outturn
cost. As a first step to understanding the sources of such budgeting
overruns in the context of the Olympics, this research note outlines how
the costs of the London 2012 Olympic Games were under-estimated in a
series of budget forecasts, identifying sources of error and categorizing
these according to the effects on budgeting of: (1) inattention to risk
inside government; (2) biases in decision-making in the evaluation and use
of information; and (3) uncertainty in project management and
administration. These factors are accentuated through the planning and
budgeting context, as estimates at different stages of the process serve
alternative purposes and entail varying levels of knowledge and scrutiny.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 455-462
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668200
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668200
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:455-462
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Liisa Lehtiranta
Author-X-Name-First: Liisa
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehtiranta
Author-Name: Sami Kärnä
Author-X-Name-First: Sami
Author-X-Name-Last: Kärnä
Author-Name: Juha-Matti Junnonen
Author-X-Name-First: Juha-Matti
Author-X-Name-Last: Junnonen
Author-Name: Päivi Julin
Author-X-Name-First: Päivi
Author-X-Name-Last: Julin
Title: The role of multi-firm satisfaction in construction project success
Abstract:
Construction project success depends on the multi-firm project
organizations involved working together satisfactorily. Yet, satisfaction
within multi-firm relationships has rarely been examined as a determinant
of construction project success. A pioneering study is carried out to
evaluate the extent to which construction project participants’
perception of each other’s performance reflects on the
owner’s perception of project success. The data represent 580
performance evaluations carried out among the project owners, project
consultants, main contractors and designers. The owner-evaluated
performance factors related to the project goals form a dependent variable
called Project Success. Dependencies between
Project Success and the various performance factors are
identified based on Pearson’s correlation coefficients.
Dependencies were discovered between Project Success and
all owner-related relationships and all but one of the non-owner-related
relationships. Preliminary sets of discipline-specific and
evaluator-specific success factors are identified. The results support the
proposition that satisfaction within both owner-related and
non-owner-related relationships is reflected on success. Therefore,
researchers and practitioners are encouraged to consider project success
in terms of multi-firm satisfaction and to engage with multi-firm
performance measurement to better understand the heterogeneous performance
factors contributing to multi-firm project success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 463-475
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.669485
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.669485
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:463-475
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: X.-X. Yuan
Author-X-Name-First: X.-X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuan
Title: Bayesian method for the correlated competitive bidding model
Abstract:
A multivariate competitive bidding model takes into account the
correlation among competitors in determination of markup size. However,
parameter estimation for the multivariate model is a challenging issue. A
simplified, piecemeal style statistical method was proposed for
low-dimension problems. However, this method may cause significant
estimation errors when applied to complex bidding situations. A refined
Bayesian statistical method based on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC)
simulation is developed that can be employed in practical bidding
problems. To deal with missing values in bid data, a data augmentation
technique is integrated in the MCMC process. The proposed Bayesian method
is shown through case studies to be robust for complex bidding situations
and also insensitive to the selection of the prior models of the
correlation matrix. An important feature of the proposed Bayesian method
is that it allows a project manager to quantify statistical uncertainties
of parameter estimation and their effects on markup decisions. The optimal
markup is represented by a posterior distribution which paints a complete
picture of the uncertainties involved in the markup size decision.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 477-491
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.666802
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.666802
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:477-491
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Fenn
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fenn
Title: Introduction to Building Procurement
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 493-494
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668198
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668198
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:493-494
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Caven
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Caven
Title: Organization Management in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 494-496
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668703
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668703
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:494-496
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Lemer
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Lemer
Title: The EcoEdge: Urgent Design Challenges in Building Sustainable Cities
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 496-498
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.669484
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.669484
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:496-498
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Heathrow’s Terminal 5: History in the Making
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 498-500
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668619
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668619
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:498-500
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Construction Quality Management: Principles and Practice
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 500-501
Issue: 6
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.675440
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.675440
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:6:p:500-501
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Adrian Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Author-Name: Stewart Johnstone
Author-X-Name-First: Stewart
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnstone
Author-Name: Keith Townsend
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Townsend
Title: Changing patterns of human resource management in construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-512
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.711562
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.711562
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:507-512
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Caven
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Caven
Author-Name: Marie Diop
Author-X-Name-First: Marie
Author-X-Name-Last: Diop
Title: Architecture: a ‘rewarding’ career? An Anglo-French comparative study of intrinsic rewards in the architecture profession
Abstract:
Careers in architecture are characterized by higher levels of job
insecurity and lower levels of remuneration than other equivalent
professions. Likewise, the ‘traditional’ rewards associated
with professional employment—professional power, status and
recognition—have been eroded. Raising the question of what are the
rewards associated with an architectural career, the concepts of informal
networks and relationships in particular are examined as compensation for
the poor financial rewards. Drawing upon the rewards literature in
conjunction with professional identity and career management data from 84
in-depth interviews with UK and France-based architects, adopting a
grounded theory method within the interpretive paradigm, findings show
these relationships provide a significant amount of intrinsic satisfaction
and thus reward which has been hitherto overlooked. The importance of
these relationships could not be foreseen nor can they be actively planned
but exist as a powerful intrinsic reward.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 513-523
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.627356
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.627356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:513-523
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christer Thörnqvist
Author-X-Name-First: Christer
Author-X-Name-Last: Thörnqvist
Author-Name: Charles Woolfson
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Woolfson
Title: When tender turns tough: posted workers and the tendering regime in the Swedish construction industry
Abstract:
The outcome of the so-called Laval case and related
judgments of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) has led to a debate about
the future of the European social model. Although several analyses have
focused on the downside of the judgments, in particular on the risk of
‘wage dumping’, one important but overlooked aspect is the
connection to tendering regimes. This lacuna is crucial to labour
recruitment practices in the construction industry because of the
important role of public authorities as buyers of large construction
services within the European Union. The research question is whether
rigidity in how public authorities are required to tender contracts
strengthens downward pressure on wages and induces a deterioration in
working conditions. Case study material from Sweden is used in the context
of extensive previous research and preliminary findings from an ongoing
research project. Because of the short time span since the rulings of the
ECJ there is only anecdotal evidence for establishing a mutually
reinforcing connection between the system for awarding tenders in Swedish
construction and the wider impacts of Laval on the labour
market. Nevertheless, new evidence suggests that labour recruitment and
human resource management practices are being shaped by a tendering regime
governed by requirements of ‘cost flexibility’.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 525-533
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.640338
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.640338
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:525-533
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gregor Gall
Author-X-Name-First: Gregor
Author-X-Name-Last: Gall
Title: Industrial conflict in the engineering construction industry in Britain
Abstract:
The militant and unofficial grassroots-led engineering construction
strikes of 2009 starkly indicated that the industrial relations of the
engineering construction industry in Britain can be characterized and
termed as old-fashioned, adversarial and robust. This article takes these
strikes as its point of departure to provide an overview of the nature and
contours of the contemporary industrial relations of the engineering
construction industry (ECI). This demonstrates that not only is this
characterization broadly correct but it is surprising in as much as it
forms a break with the previous decades of industrial relations in the
ECI. The article provides a synopsis of the strikes in 2009 and a
contextualized analysis of the social dynamics underpinning them. This is
followed by an examination of the nature of the labour market, cycles of
engineering construction activity, and processes of industrial relations
in the ECI, where the 2009 strikes are used as a prism by which to view
them. Thereafter, the issue of assessing the nature and extent of
industrial conflict is returned to.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-544
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.661442
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.661442
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:535-544
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence T.T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence T.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Do national cultural differences affect the nature and characteristics of HRM practices? Evidence from Australian and Hong Kong construction firms on remuneration and job autonomy
Abstract:
Human resource management (HRM) plays a pivotal role in attracting and
retaining talent. However, there is growing recognition in international
HRM literature that the adoption of the widely accepted
US/Harvard-inspired HRM model ignores the influences of cultural contexts
on HRM practices in different countries. This notion has not been
empirically investigated in the construction industry. Based on survey
responses from 604 construction professionals from Australia and Hong
Kong, this study examines whether: (1) national cultural differences
influence individuals’ preferences for types of remuneration and
job autonomy; (2) actual organizational HRM practices reflect such
preferences; and (3) gaps between individuals’ preferences and
actual organizational HRM practices affect job satisfaction. The results
showed significant differences in HRM preferences between Australian and
Hong Kong respondents and these are reflected in the distinct types of HRM
practices adopted by construction firms in the two countries. The findings
further indicated that the gap between individuals’ preferences and
actual organizational HRM practices is associated with job satisfaction.
The results support existing mainstream research and highlight the
deficiency of the acultural treatment of HRM that is still apparent in
construction management literature. An uncritical literature in the area
not only hinders theory development but also potentially undermines the
ability of construction firms to attract, recruit and retain scarce
talent.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-556
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.682074
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.682074
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:545-556
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Fung Fai Ng
Author-X-Name-First: Fung Fai
Author-X-Name-Last: Ng
Title: Analysis of knowledge sharing behaviour in construction teams in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Knowledge sharing in construction teams is important for improved project
performance and successful project delivery. The purpose of this study is
to analyse psychological motivations underlying individual knowledge
sharing behaviour in Hong Kong construction teams using the theory of
planned behaviour (TPB). A questionnaire survey was conducted among
professionals from 172 construction companies in Hong Kong. A total of 231
usable questionnaires were collected. Structural equation modelling (SEM)
is applied to test the research model and hypotheses. The research results
indicate that professionals’ knowledge sharing behaviour in
construction teams is only significantly predicted by their intention to
share knowledge rather than perceived behavioural control over knowledge
sharing, implying that knowledge sharing behaviour is largely under the
professionals’ volitional control. The research results also
indicate that professionals’ knowledge sharing intention is
dominantly affected by attitude and perceived behavioural control but
weakly influenced by subjective norm, which is different from other groups
of professionals in prior studies. Several managerial implications are
suggested for construction companies to manage employees’ knowledge
sharing behaviour in construction teams. It is one of the first studies to
employ social psychological theory to examine knowledge sharing behaviour
in the construction context. However, the research model only shows
predictive power and lacks explanatory power. Nevertheless, it provides a
starting point for future researchers to further explore the salient
beliefs underlying attitude and perceived behavioural control so as to
explain knowledge sharing behaviour in the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 557-574
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.669838
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.669838
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:557-574
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dirk Lindebaum
Author-X-Name-First: Dirk
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindebaum
Author-Name: Peter J. Jordan
Author-X-Name-First: Peter J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jordan
Title: Relevant but exaggerated: the effects of emotional intelligence on project manager performance in construction
Abstract:
The construction industry is traditionally seen as being slow to adopt
new management techniques, especially in the domain of human resources.
Recent studies have argued that emotional intelligence (EI) may be key to
improved project manager performance in construction. Indeed, some
researchers have argued that EI improves all types of work performance. We
dispute this notion, and argue that context and nature of tasks are
neglected issues in studies of EI and performance at work. The
construction industry provides a unique context to test this proposition.
We collected data using a sample of 55 project managers in the UK
construction industry using a cross-sectional survey design. Findings
suggest that project managers’ levels of EI are linked to most
relational performance dimensions. However, project manager EI was not
associated with cognitive task related performance dimensions. Therefore,
we argue that, while contributing to some aspects of project manager
performance, the benefits of EI in this present context should not be
overstated. Rather, it should be only one of a set of competencies that
are required by successful construction project managers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 575-583
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.593184
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.593184
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:575-583
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Raisbeck
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Raisbeck
Title: Distributed Intelligence in Design
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 585-590
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.683199
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.683199
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:585-590
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: Adjudication in the Building Industry (3rd edn)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 590-594
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.671951
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.671951
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:590-594
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Title: Life Cycle Assessment in the Built Environment
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 594-596
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.673727
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.673727
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:594-596
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ole Jonny Klakegg
Author-X-Name-First: Ole Jonny
Author-X-Name-Last: Klakegg
Title: Art and Practice of Managing Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 596-598
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.682731
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.682731
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:596-598
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Clare Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Title: Designing for construction workers’ occupational health and safety: a case study of socio-material complexity
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 599-599
Issue: 7
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.709401
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.709401
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:7:p:599-599
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Naomi Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Title: What is engineering construction and why is it important? Towards a research agenda
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-607
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.709414
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.709414
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:603-607
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Title: Contested overruns and performance of offshore wind power plants
Abstract:
Offshore wind power plants are expected to expand rapidly in the coming
years. These large engineering construction projects are important for
climate change mitigation. The paper contributes to socio-technical
understanding of engineering construction. Cost, time, delays and
performance results of selected British plants are investigated, with a
focus on strategic misrepresentation. This megaproject concept is combined
with a socio-technical content analysis of offshore wind farms and
provides a technologically precise and contemporary conceptualization in
comparison with complex engineering and megaproject approaches. Based on
publicly available data, budget and time overruns and underperformance are
demonstrated. Budget overruns range from 0% to 65%; time overruns from 9%
to 100%, Operational performance indicators reveal plants far below and
just below estimations. These are all indications of strategic
misrepresentation, but according to project players, the delays originate
from weather, product technology, site features and processes. The
findings thus indicate a latent controversy regarding reasons for
overruns. A socio-technical variant of reference class forecasting (RCF)
is developed to explore whether RCF could improve the estimates.
Socio-technical RCF is developed for 10 plants that share foundation,
national and geotechnical conditions. This provides an illustrative
example of a proposed uplift for London Array. Such an RCF should be
orchestrated with more governance mechanisms in order to improve future
investments in engineering construction, including offshore plants.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 609-622
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.687830
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.687830
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:609-622
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Giorgio Locatelli
Author-X-Name-First: Giorgio
Author-X-Name-Last: Locatelli
Author-Name: Mauro Mancini
Author-X-Name-First: Mauro
Author-X-Name-Last: Mancini
Title: Looking back to see the future: building nuclear power plants in Europe
Abstract:
The so-called ‘nuclear renaissance’ in Europe is
promulgated by the execution of two large engineering projects involving
the construction of two European Pressurized Reactors (EPRs) in
Flamanville, France and Olkiluoto in Finland. As both projects have faced
budget overruns and delays, this paper analyses their governance and
history to derive lessons useful for the construction of future projects.
Analysis indicates that the reasons for these poor outcomes are:
overoptimistic estimations, first-of-a-kind (FOAK) issues and
undervaluation of regulation requirements. These pitfalls have the
potential to impact on many other engineering construction projects and
highlight fruitful areas of further research into project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-637
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.684884
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.684884
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:623-637
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nancy Madter
Author-X-Name-First: Nancy
Author-X-Name-Last: Madter
Author-Name: Naomi J. Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Author-Name: Denise A. Bower
Author-X-Name-First: Denise A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bower
Author-Name: George Hagan
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Hagan
Title: Exploring project management continuing professional development in engineering construction
Abstract:
Project management is a critical organizational capability in the
engineering construction sector: the development of that capability
through continuing professional development (CPD) is, therefore, of
substantive interest to practitioners and researchers alike. The aim of
this investigation was to explore current practice in CPD in engineering
construction. This was achieved by undertaking a cross-case analysis of
the experiences of project management CPD in 17 organizations. The
analysis revealed a highly unsystematic approach to CPD and a very limited
adaptation of CPD to the engineering construction context. The impact of
introducing more structured and contextualized approaches to CPD on the
effectiveness of project managers needs to be investigated further.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 639-651
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.674211
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.674211
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:639-651
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita M.M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M.M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Managing organizational interfaces in engineering construction projects: addressing fragmentation and boundary issues across multiple interfaces
Abstract:
Extensive and increasing specialization in construction has prompted much
criticism—that fragmentation leads to poor performance. Such issues
are magnified on engineering construction projects due to their size,
complexity, financing, duration and execution by many organizations, often
from several diverse countries. Theory, research perspectives and findings
of boundary management studies are examined in the context of management
of engineering construction projects. The objectives are to investigate
theory and practices of boundary management; to examine how boundary
management operates on engineering construction projects; and to produce a
research agenda for studying further, important aspects of boundary
management impacting on engineering construction projects. Conclusions are
that the emerging theories provide insights but it is the nature of the
markets—notably, the diverse objectives of stakeholders and the
procedures and their practices in pursuit of self-oriented
benefits—which are the main impediments to achieving greater
coordination and collaboration. On complex engineering construction
projects, many requirements are emergent and project participants
co-evolve to yield self-organizing governance as projects progress within
an often fixed formal framework. Recognition of performance
interdependence among participants is an essential underpinning of
commitment and cooperation; development and use of appropriate boundary
management through boundary spanning and boundary objects can foster
interaction and coordination even with participants’ retention of
their individual goals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-671
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.668199
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.668199
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:653-671
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christine Pasquire
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Pasquire
Title: Positioning Lean within an exploration of engineering construction
Abstract:
Engineering construction has specific characteristics that separate it
from other types of construction such as technical complexity, onerous
safety, health and environmental regulations, duality of new build
combined with maintenance and repair, largely owner/user commissioning
clients, value propositions revolving around a production Process, etc.
The recent Gibson report (Gibson, 2009) highlighted several significant
problems associated with engineering construction in the UK arising, in
many cases, from skill shortages and poor client--contractor
relationships. Informal observation and a literature review enable 12
factors to be proposed that differentiate engineering construction from
other forms of construction. A new paradigm for the construction sector is
Lean construction. This is an adaptation of Lean production and is based
on a philosophy that focuses on delivering improved value through the
assembly of problem-solving networks of knowledgeable and skilled people.
Accepting that Lean construction exists in theory as a method for
improving a raft of construction production issues, the question is asked
here as to whether it is also relevant to the set of additional factors
identified as applying specifically to production in an engineering
construction context. The discussion concludes that Lean construction
principles can be applied in engineering construction and that an
improvement in value could be achieved. Note: throughout
this paper the word ‘process’ is used in two
contexts—the design and construction process and the end Process
that is the function of the client business, e.g. water treatment Process,
food manufacturing Process. The context is distinguished by the
capitalization of the first letter.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 673-685
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.689431
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.689431
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:673-685
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Greenwood
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Greenwood
Author-Name: Barry James Gledson
Author-X-Name-First: Barry James
Author-X-Name-Last: Gledson
Title: The efficient scheduling of resources in engineering construction projects: reflections on a case study from Iran
Abstract:
A particular problem for productivity in engineering construction
projects is poor front-end planning, in particular, the lack of attention
to resource-loaded schedules. In such projects, resources are highly
specific and constrained, resulting in conflicts that can compromise
planned durations and add cost. There are many techniques available for
mitigating these conflicts. These have been extensively reported and
compared in the literature and some have been adopted into commercially
available computerized scheduling packages that are used by most major
contractors. Project managers normally have access only to the techniques
offered by the software that their organizations happen to use. In the
reported case, a heuristic algorithm developed by academics was
implemented and tested against a well-known standard software scheduling
tool on the construction of a combined-cycle power plant in Iran. When
results were compared, the performance of the manually applied algorithm
was found to be superior in its ability to provide acceptable time--cost
trade-offs. The underlying argument is twofold. First, that deficiencies
in planning (particularly the reconciliation of resource constraints with
completion targets) are responsible for poor productivity in engineering
construction projects. Second, as improved techniques for optimizing
‘resource-loaded’ schedules are continually being sought and
devised, they should be made available to project managers; and the best
way for this to happen is for them to be incorporated into commercially
available project management software.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 687-695
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.704595
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.704595
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:687-695
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tony Maplesden
Author-X-Name-First: Tony
Author-X-Name-Last: Maplesden
Title: Bridging the academia/industry divide in engineering construction research
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 697-698
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.697179
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.697179
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:697-698
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Researching skills requirements for engineering construction: a UK perspective
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 698-700
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.671526
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.671526
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:698-700
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tim Podesta
Author-X-Name-First: Tim
Author-X-Name-Last: Podesta
Title: Picturing the emerging engineering construction research agenda: reflections on the Managing Engineering Construction special issue
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 700-702
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.663096
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.663096
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:700-702
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Oliver
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Oliver
Title: Knowledge requirements for capability development in complex project delivery
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 702-703
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.690071
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.690071
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:702-703
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham M. Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Industrial Megaprojects: Concepts, Strategies and Practices for Success
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 705-708
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.665996
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.665996
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:705-708
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Brian Atkin
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkin
Title: Planning Major Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 708-710
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.674210
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.674210
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:708-710
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Janet Druker
Author-X-Name-First: Janet
Author-X-Name-Last: Druker
Title: Lean Culture for the Construction Industry: Building Responsible and Committed Project Teams
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 710-711
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.679947
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.679947
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:710-711
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samin Shokri
Author-X-Name-First: Samin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shokri
Author-Name: Carl T. Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Title: Risk Management for Design and Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-713
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.690883
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.690883
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:711-713
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Elisabeth Campagnac
Author-X-Name-First: Elisabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Campagnac
Title: Engineers: A Study of Structural Designers Matthew Wells, Routledge, London, 2010 256pp, ISBN 978 0 415 32526 4, £25.00 (pb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 713-714
Issue: 8
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.672756
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.672756
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:8:p:713-714
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Aaron Maano Anvuur
Author-X-Name-First: Aaron Maano
Author-X-Name-Last: Anvuur
Author-Name: Mohan Kumaraswamy
Author-X-Name-First: Mohan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumaraswamy
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Perceptions of status and TMO workgroup cooperation: implications for project governance
Abstract:
Achieving and sustaining the cooperation of individuals with their
temporary multi-organization (TMO) workgroups is, arguably, one of the
most enduring challenges facing the construction sector. A mediational
model connecting pride and self-respect to each of four dimensions of
cooperative behaviour—in-role, compliance, extra-role, and
deference—is tested in a survey sample of 140 construction
professionals in Hong Kong. Bootstrap tests of the indirect effect of
pride on cooperative behaviour suggest that self-respect fully mediates
the influence of pride on in-role behaviour and compliance behaviour, and
partially mediates the influence of pride on extra-role behaviour. The
results also suggest that pride has no effect on deference behaviour.
While needing corroboration by future research, the findings suggest that
viable strategies designed to foster pride and self-respect could engender
and sustain cooperation in construction TMO workgroups, and support
ongoing efforts to reform construction. The bootstrapping procedures for
testing intervening variable models are elaborated in the hope that this
will encourage more process analysis research in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 719-737
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.688137
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.688137
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:719-737
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jacopo Torriti
Author-X-Name-First: Jacopo
Author-X-Name-Last: Torriti
Title: Multiple-project discount rates for cost-benefit analysis in construction projects: a formal risk model for microgeneration renewable energy
technologies
Abstract:
The traditional economic approach for appraising the costs and benefits
of construction project net present values involves the calculation of net
returns for each investment option under different discount rates. An
alternative approach consists of multiple-project discount rates based on
risk modelling. The example of a portfolio of microgeneration renewable
energy technology is presented to demonstrate that risks and future
available budget for re-investment can be taken into account when setting
discount rates for construction project specifications in the presence of
uncertainty. A formal demonstration is carried out through a reversed
intertemporal approach of applied general equilibrium. It is demonstrated
that risk and the estimated available budget for future re-investment can
be included in the simultaneous assessment of the costs and benefits of
multiple projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-747
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.692165
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.692165
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:739-747
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: Procuring architectural services: sensemaking in a legal context
Abstract:
Decision makers involved in selecting an architect for a building project
in the public domain have to comply with European procurement regulations.
The blend of the legal requirements and the subjective elements of
architectural design creates a situation in which the legal rationale
often clashes with the organizational sensemaking process that decision
makers experience. Hence, being aware of the origin of these conflicts
could have important managerial implications for the design of a tender
process. A competition and a tender case were selected to collect data by
observation, interviewing and document analysis. The incremental and
iterative character of making sense of supply and demand and the implicit
ways of aggregating value judgements in order to make a final procurement
decision were found to be the main underlying decision processes in
procuring architectural services. Being aware of these characteristics in
the design of a tender process would significantly reduce the chance of
conflictive situations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 749-759
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.667138
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.667138
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:749-759
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shahin Mokhlesian
Author-X-Name-First: Shahin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mokhlesian
Author-Name: Magnus HolmE9;n
Author-X-Name-First: Magnus
Author-X-Name-Last: HolmE9;n
Title: Business model changes and green construction processes
Abstract:
Green construction or sustainable construction differs from traditional
construction in terms of the materials and processes used. To profit from
green construction, firms may need to change their business models,
including their offers, activities, networks and revenue models. However
there is no explicit study on what changes are required or common in
construction companies’ business models when they are involved in
green construction projects. To systematize prior research a literature
review identified changes in business model elements. The results showed
that (1) most business model elements can change in a non-trivial manner
as a consequence of green construction; (2) value configuration, cost
structure, partner networks and capability are the elements emphasized in
literature and are expected to be the most difficult and important to
change; and (3) to be successful, firms may need to simultaneously change
the business model elements of capability, value configuration and partner
network on the one hand, and value proposition, cost structure and
capability on the other hand.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 761-775
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.694457
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.694457
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:761-775
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David James Bryde
Author-X-Name-First: David James
Author-X-Name-Last: Bryde
Author-Name: Ralf Schulmeister
Author-X-Name-First: Ralf
Author-X-Name-Last: Schulmeister
Title: Applying Lean principles to a building refurbishment project: experiences of key stakeholders
Abstract:
Lean construction can be conceptualized as a process-oriented approach
derived from the Toyota Production System (TPS). Elements of the approach
include pull-driven scheduling, minimizing stock held on site, visual
management, levelling workloads and teamwork. While there has been
empirical study of Lean in relation to new-builds there is a need to
analyse its applicability to other contexts, such as refurbishments. The
effect of using Lean on the refurbishment of a municipal building in
Germany is investigated in this study. Participant observation, archival
project documentation and semi-structured interviews are used to collect
data on the use of Lean. The findings indicate the difficulty of applying
Lean to refurbishment projects, particularly operating pull-drive
scheduling, and the experience of the project brings into question the
practicalities of applying the fundamental Lean principle of having a
smooth level flow of work to refurbishment projects. Minimizing stock held
on site with JIT delivery of materials also proved problematic, which was
exacerbated by the commercial arrangements between subcontractors and
suppliers providing no incentive to Lean. The use of the visual management
aspects of Lean, such as performance charts, coupled with weekly meetings,
were easier to adapt to the project and generally had a beneficial impact.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-794
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.700405
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.700405
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:777-794
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Löwstedt
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Löwstedt
Author-Name: Christine Räisänen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Räisänen
Title: ‘Playing back-spin balls’: narrating organizational change in construction
Abstract:
What does change mean for organizational members? Although researchers
have attempted to capture its intrinsic complexities, there remains
uncertainty as to what change really is and how it happens. Drawing on a
longitudinal interpretative case study of change in a large Swedish
construction company, a narrative approach is used to elicit middle
managers’ stories of change episodes over the past two decades.
These stories have then been compared with the narratives of the same
episodes in governing documents. We found that the lived and the formal
narratives, respectively, depicted two very different interpretations and
enactments of change: the former described a discontinuous process of
discrete contingencies demanding immediate short-term responses whereas
the latter described a proactive incremental strategic plan. A narrative
approach to the study of organizational change contributes to deeper
insights into the ramifications of an organization’s socio-cultural
system by enabling the capture of significant variations, contradictions
and tensions, both for organizational members and for the researchers who
study change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 795-806
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.693189
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.693189
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:795-806
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andr� Dor�e
Author-X-Name-First: Andr�
Author-X-Name-Last: Dor�e
Title: Making Sense of Construction Improvement
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 807-809
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.675078
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.675078
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:807-809
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paolo Tombesi
Author-X-Name-First: Paolo
Author-X-Name-Last: Tombesi
Title: Spatial Agency: Other Ways of Doing Architecture
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 809-811
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.682732
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.682732
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:809-811
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Gravitt
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravitt
Title: Eco-Urban Design
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 811-812
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.682733
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.682733
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:811-812
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michaela Schaffhauser-Linzatti
Author-X-Name-First: Michaela
Author-X-Name-Last: Schaffhauser-Linzatti
Title: Construction Management: Subcontractor Scopes of Work
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 812-814
Issue: 9
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.686667
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.686667
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:9:p:812-814
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alison Furber
Author-X-Name-First: Alison
Author-X-Name-Last: Furber
Author-Name: Sarah Duncan
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Duncan
Author-Name: Simon David Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon David
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Martin Crapper
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Crapper
Title: The health and safety implications of socio-cultural context for community construction projects in developing countries
Abstract:
Community participation in construction during rural infrastructure
projects in developing countries is encouraged by many non-governmental
organizations. The health and safety aspects of this type of development
model have not previously been adequately researched, however. The aim is
to identify the socio-cultural factors that motivate community members to
participate in construction activities which they perceive as hazardous
during a case study of a water and sanitation project in rural Ghana. This
is a step towards understanding how health and safety can be more
effectively managed during community development projects. A qualitative
approach has been taken, using interview, observation and reflection. It
was found that the communal culture of the local context resulted in
community members feeling pressurized to participate in hazardous
construction activities. Local customary laws further compelled
individuals as they were concerned they could be fined or arrested should
they not fulfil their communal obligations. Further work is required to
determine the boundaries within which findings apply but it is likely that
there are implications for others managing community construction projects
both in Ghana and further afield.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 857-867
Issue: 10
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.707324
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.707324
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:10:p:857-867
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hemanta Doloi
Author-X-Name-First: Hemanta
Author-X-Name-Last: Doloi
Author-Name: Anil Sawhney
Author-X-Name-First: Anil
Author-X-Name-Last: Sawhney
Author-Name: K.C. Iyer
Author-X-Name-First: K.C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Iyer
Title: Structural equation model for investigating factors affecting delay in Indian construction projects
Abstract:
The rapid growth of the Indian construction sector over the last few
decades and recurring failure in on-time delivery highlight the need for a
systematic analysis of the factors influencing delay. A theoretical
structural equation model representing the influence of four key latent
variables on project delays in the Indian construction industry has been
developed. Data collected from a questionnaire survey and personal
interviews, with 77 valid responses from clients, contractors and
designers or architects, were used to further formulate and analyse the
model. The results of the structural equation model suggest that
client’s influence is one of the most significant factors affecting
time performance on Indian projects. Client’s influence is also
found to be one of the key contributing factors resulting in lack of
commitment and contractor’s inefficiency in the project. Lack of
efficient construction planning plays the second key role in adverse time
performance. While the effect of lack of commitment on contractor’s
inefficiency is highly significant, neither of these two factors has any
direct impact on time delay in projects. Contrary to the notion that the
contractor is the only party responsible for delay in construction
projects, the results clearly highlight the importance of the role of
clients and technical expertise in planning in achieving satisfactory time
performance on Indian projects. It is hoped that these research findings
will contribute significantly to the Indian construction industry’s
efforts in addressing the root causes of delay and enhancing the time
performance on projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 869-884
Issue: 10
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.717705
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.717705
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:10:p:869-884
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Peter J. Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Title: Corruption in the South African construction industry: a thematic analysis of verbatim comments from survey participants
Abstract:
Corruption is a pervasive stain on the construction industry in many
countries. South Africa is no exception. A questionnaire survey showed
that corruption there is perceived to be widespread. Beyond the
quantitative survey findings, thematic analysis was used to explore the
verbatim comments offered by many survey participants. This analysis
clarified the nature and extent of corruption more precisely and four
predominant themes emerged: involvement in corruption, forms of
corruption, factors that may give rise to corrupt activities, and the
means of combating corruption. Public officials are thought to be actively
involved in acts of corruption, particularly in the soliciting of bribes
and in tender manipulation. Professional consultants and other actors in
the construction supply chain are not above reproach. Forms of corruption
centre largely on appointment and tender irregularities, and to a lesser
extent on contract administration and closeout irregularities. Factors
instrumental in corruption include the skills shortage within the
industry, a perceived absence of deterrents and sanctions, and poor
ethical standards. Procedural impediments, fear of victimization and
personal attitudes all act as barriers to combating corruption. While
confirming opportunity, pressure and self-justification as the three
pillars of the Cressey ‘Fraud Triangle’ theory of
corruption, the research findings suggest that a more dynamic
interpretation of this model is advisable. In addressing corruption, at
least in the public sector, improvements in procurement processes are
needed along with shifts towards higher standards of ethical behaviour
among public sector employees at all levels. Greater procurement process
transparency (in both public and private sectors of the industry) would
address the worst effects of undue political interference and nepotism.
The South African construction industry (particularly its statutory
professional councils and contractor affiliation bodies), together with
public sector agencies and private sector client associations, should
collaborate to adopt a more proactive stance against corruption, and be
more engaged with detecting and reporting it.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 885-901
Issue: 10
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.711909
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.711909
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:10:p:885-901
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Caroline T.W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Caroline T.W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: The principal factors affecting construction project overhead expenses: an exploratory factor analysis approach
Abstract:
Estimation is the first step in the project development process.
Information technology provides an efficient platform for estimators to
obtain quotations and specifications for their bid estimates. However, in
practice, project overhead estimation relies heavily on the professional
judgement and intuition of the estimators. This reduces the overall
accuracy and reliability of the bid and a better understanding of the
factors affecting project overheads is fundamental before any improved
estimating methods can be devised. Unfortunately, the published literature
on this topic is very limited. Using exploratory factor analysis, we aim
to bridge the current knowledge gap by highlighting the principal factors
affecting project overheads. Questionnaires detailing 27 variables were
sent to quantity surveying managers of large contractors in Hong Kong.
Seventy-nine valid responses were analysed by exploratory factor analysis.
From the results, eight factors were extracted with their latent
properties identified with reference to the expert opinions collected from
telephone interviews. The findings clarify some misconceptions about the
factors affecting project overheads and provide useful evidence for
practitioners and researchers to understand project overheads. Estimators
who address the identified factors when assessing future project overhead
costs can improve the accuracy of their cost estimates and project
budgets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 903-914
Issue: 10
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.717706
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.717706
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:10:p:903-914
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Gardiner
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Gardiner
Title: Cost-benefit Analysis: Cases and Materials
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1011-1012
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.688985
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.688985
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:1011-1012
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Brockmann
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Brockmann
Title: Construction Project Scheduling and Control (CourseSmart), 2nd edn
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1012-1013
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.694456
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.694456
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:1012-1013
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Clara Greed
Author-X-Name-First: Clara
Author-X-Name-Last: Greed
Title: Builders: Class, Gender and Ethnicity in the Construction Industry
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1013-1017
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.717704
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.717704
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:1013-1017
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kalle Kähkönen
Author-X-Name-First: Kalle
Author-X-Name-Last: Kähkönen
Title: Programming and Scheduling Techniques
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1017-1019
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.728708
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.728708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:1017-1019
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Baabak Ashuri
Author-X-Name-First: Baabak
Author-X-Name-Last: Ashuri
Author-Name: Seyed Mohsen Shahandashti
Author-X-Name-First: Seyed Mohsen
Author-X-Name-Last: Shahandashti
Author-Name: Jian Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Empirical tests for identifying leading indicators of ENR Construction Cost Index
Abstract:
Engineering News-Record (ENR) publishes its
Construction Cost Index (CCI) monthly. CCI is the weighted average price
of construction activities in 20 United States (US) cities. CCI has widely
been used for cost estimation, bid preparation and investment planning.
Cost estimators and investment planners are not only interested in the
current CCI, but also are interested in forecasting changes in CCI trends.
However, CCI is subject to significant variations that are difficult to
predict. An important step towards forecasting CCI trends is to identify
its leading indicators. The research objective is to identify the leading
indicators of CCI using empirical tests. The results of Granger causality
tests show that consumer price index, crude oil price, producer price
index, GDP, employment levels in construction, number of building permits,
number of housing starts and money supply are the leading indicators of
CCI. The results of Johansen’s cointegration tests show that money
supply and crude oil price are the leading indicators with long-term
relationships with CCI. These findings contribute to the body of knowledge
in CCI forecasting. CCI can be predicted more accurately using its leading
indicators. Cost estimators and capital project planners can benefit from
better forecasting through reduction in uncertainty about future
construction costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 917-927
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.728709
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.728709
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:917-927
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daisy Yeung
Author-X-Name-First: Daisy
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeung
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: A method for systematically pooling data in very early stage construction price forecasting
Abstract:
Client owners usually need an estimate or forecast of their likely
building costs in advance of detailed design in order to confirm the
financial feasibility of their projects. Because of their timing in the
project life cycle, these early stage forecasts are characterized by the
minimal amount of information available concerning the new (target)
project to the point that often only its size and type are known. One
approach is to use the mean contract sum of a sample, or base group, of
previous projects of a similar type and size to the project for which the
estimate is needed. Bernoulli’s law of large numbers implies that
this base group should be as large as possible. However, increasing the
size of the base group inevitably involves including projects that are
less and less similar to the target project. Deciding on the optimal
number of base group projects is known as the homogeneity or pooling
problem. A method of solving the homogeneity problem is described
involving the use of closed form equations to compare three different
sampling arrangements of previous projects for their simulated forecasting
ability by a cross-validation method, where a series of targets are
extracted, with replacement, from the groups and compared with the mean
value of the projects in the base groups. The procedure is then
demonstrated with 450 Hong Kong projects (with different project types:
Residential, Commercial centre, Car parking, Social community centre,
School, Office, Hotel, Industrial, University and Hospital) clustered into
base groups according to their type and size.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 929-939
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.733402
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.733402
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:929-939
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farid Sedighi
Author-X-Name-First: Farid
Author-X-Name-Last: Sedighi
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Employer-of-choice characteristics in the construction industry
Abstract:
In many countries, ageing populations, skills shortages and increasing
inter-sector labour competition has made graduate recruitment and
retention a priority in the construction industry. Understanding what
constitutes an employer-of-choice in the eyes of graduates is important in
meeting this challenge. A survey of 160 undergraduates across 26
international universities concluded that the top three most important
workplace characteristics for university students on construction courses
are: positive work relationships, being able to learn on the job, and a
workplace that is passionate about work. Distinct gender differences were
exposed between preferences as were differences in preferences compared to
the preferences of graduates in other industries. These findings
contribute to our understanding of how students make choices about
employers, what factors are important in making those decisions and how
these factors vary between different graduate groups. They also contribute
to our understanding of how to design better recruitment strategies to
attract talent to the construction sector in an environment where demand
is anticipated to exceed supply for some time ahead.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 941-950
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.694458
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.694458
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:941-950
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-Man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-Man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Author-Name: Cong Liang
Author-X-Name-First: Cong
Author-X-Name-Last: Liang
Author-Name: Ziyou Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Ziyou
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Bo-Tong Song
Author-X-Name-First: Bo-Tong
Author-X-Name-Last: Song
Author-Name: Qi Gu
Author-X-Name-First: Qi
Author-X-Name-Last: Gu
Title: Real estate bubbles in China: a tale of two cities
Abstract:
As housing markets have overheated recently in urban China, housing price
bears substantial risk. The issue of housing price bubbles in these
markets has become a popular and significant topic among consumers,
policymakers and academia alike. In particular, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, as
the most important markets for revealing the condition of the housing
market in the Pearl River Delta, have attracted much attention in the
period of prosperity. As such, an investigation into the bubble issue in
these two cities is conducted by using an improved model, the time-varying
risk model. The empirical work reveals that explosive bubbles did
periodically (2003 Q1 to 2006 Q2 and 2009 Q2 to 2010 Q1) have an impact on
the two markets. For the rest of the period, housing markets in both
Guangzhou and Shenzhen are found to be significantly influenced by macro
adjustments and various economic events. The implication of the research
provides a reference for policymaking in addressing the issue of softening
in China’s real estate market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 951-961
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.714871
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.714871
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:951-961
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jacob R. Tucker
Author-X-Name-First: Jacob R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tucker
Author-Name: Annie R. Pearce
Author-X-Name-First: Annie R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Pearce
Author-Name: Richard D. Bruce
Author-X-Name-First: Richard D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bruce
Author-Name: Andrew P. McCoy
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew P.
Author-X-Name-Last: McCoy
Author-Name: Thomas H. Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: The perceived value of green professional credentials to credential holders in the US building design and construction community
Abstract:
The popularity of green construction professional credentials has
increased dramatically in recent years in the United States and abroad,
due in part to the mainstream development of sustainable construction in
the building design and construction community. The aim was to compare the
perceived value of three broad-spectrum green building professional
credentials currently available in the North American construction market:
Green Globes Professional, LEED Green Associate and Green Advantage
Certified Practitioner. Perceived professional and personal value derived
from holding credentials, including but not limited to impacts on
compensation, promotion, education, industry recognition and
self-confidence, were evaluated for a sample of credential holders using
an online survey instrument. Invitations were successfully delivered to
6670 certified and non-certified design and construction professionals. Of
those surveyed, 730 responded to the Qualtrics survey. A one-way analysis
of variance (ANOVA) was used to detect significant differences between the
reported perceptions of different credential holders. The results revealed
that Green Globes Professionals and LEED Green Associates agree more
strongly than Green Advantage Certified Practitioners that earning their
credentials resulted in positive professional and personal impacts. No
significant differences between the perceptions of Green Globes
Professionals and LEED Green Associates were identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 963-979
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.728710
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.728710
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:963-979
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Srinivasa S. Ponnaluru
Author-X-Name-First: Srinivasa S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ponnaluru
Author-Name: Thomas L. Marsh
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Marsh
Author-Name: Michael Brady
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Brady
Title: Spatial price analysis of used construction equipment: the case of excavators
Abstract:
Equipment represents one of the largest input expenditures for the
construction sector and other firms. Yet, prices of used construction
equipment have not been widely studied in the economic literature. A
spatial hedonic price function is specified and estimated for used
excavators sold by auction in North America from 1996 to 2006. The results
indicate that prices of used excavators differ significantly for various
reasons. Controlling for characteristics of the machinery, we find
evidence of regional price variation and ‘within sale’
spatial effects. Prices also vary between auction houses themselves.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 981-994
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.723129
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.723129
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:981-994
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mehmet Egemen Ozbek
Author-X-Name-First: Mehmet Egemen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ozbek
Author-Name: Jesus M. de la Garza
Author-X-Name-First: Jesus M.
Author-X-Name-Last: de la Garza
Author-Name: Konstantinos Triantis
Author-X-Name-First: Konstantinos
Author-X-Name-Last: Triantis
Title: Efficiency measurement of the maintenance of paved lanes using data envelopment analysis
Abstract:
While the road maintenance performance measurement systems that are
currently in use investigate maintenance level of service (i.e.
effectiveness of the road maintenance), the fundamental relationship
between the maintenance level of service and the budget requirements (i.e.
the efficiency of road maintenance) has not received as much attention.
Given that not knowing how ‘efficient’ transportation
agencies are in being ‘effective’ can lead to excessive and
unrealistic maintenance budget expectations, there is a need for a
performance measurement system that can assess the overall efficiency of
road maintenance operations. To address this need, a framework was
developed and implemented to assess the relative cost efficiency of eight
counties in Virginia, USA in maintaining the paved lanes of the Interstate
roads. Such framework is developed using a methodology known as data
envelopment analysis which is based on the production theory and
principles of linear programming. The results indicate that the Rockbridge
County is the most efficient and the Roanoke County is the least efficient
in maintaining the paved lanes. The findings of this research are intended
to be used as guides for benchmarking as well as managerial actions and
policy making for decision making with respect to road maintenance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 995-1009
Issue: 11
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.725939
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.725939
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:11:p:995-1009
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xian Zheng
Author-X-Name-First: Xian
Author-X-Name-Last: Zheng
Author-Name: Kwong Wing Chau
Author-X-Name-First: Kwong Wing
Author-X-Name-Last: Chau
Author-Name: Eddie Chi-Man Hui
Author-X-Name-First: Eddie Chi-Man
Author-X-Name-Last: Hui
Title: The impact of property price on construction output
Abstract:
The interaction between the construction market and the overall economy
has attracted much attention, but few studies have investigated the
influence of the property market on the construction market in terms of
property price. The disaggregated data of Hong Kong’s housing and
retail construction sectors are collected to investigate the impact of
property price on construction output. The newly developed autoregressive
distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach and the error correction
(EC)-based Granger causality test are employed. The bounds testing results
suggest that there exist stable long-run relationships between
construction output and property price for both housing and retail
construction sectors. Specifically, a 1.00% increase in the housing price
and retail price lead to a 0.55% and 0.42% increase in construction
outputs for the two sectors respectively. In addition, the Granger
causality tests confirm a distinct long-run causal flow from property
price to construction output. Furthermore, the proposed ARDL approach
provides an effective method for forecasting construction output.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1025-1037
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.714872
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.714872
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1025-1037
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamad Kassem
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamad
Author-X-Name-Last: Kassem
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Author-Name: Donald Mitchell
Author-X-Name-First: Donald
Author-X-Name-Last: Mitchell
Title: A decision support system for the selection of curtain wall systems at the design development stage
Abstract:
In high rise building construction projects, curtain wall is one of the
most widely used exterior finishing components and has a major influence
on the overall building operational costs and efficiency in terms of
CO2 emissions. The selection of curtain wall systems involves
numerous technical, environmental and economic factors, and impacts on all
project stages from concept design, through manufacture to installation
and operation. The current way this important decision is being made in
the business process, and its simplification, are two important issues
that are still unexplored in the literature. After investigating the
drawbacks of the current business process using a retrospective case study
and an industrial survey, a decision support system (DSS), which consists
of a process framework and an integrated relational database as a central
repository for the main curtain wall systems and their engineering
parameters, is proposed as a potential solution. The DSS developed not
only enables the resolution of the main issue of the selection of curtain
wall systems at the early design development stage but it also helps
specifiers identify multiple technical and commercial options that could
be presented to clients in real time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1039-1053
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.725940
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.725940
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1039-1053
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fah Choy Chia
Author-X-Name-First: Fah Choy
Author-X-Name-Last: Chia
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Title: An analysis of construction productivity in Malaysia
Abstract:
The construction industry is an industry of major strategic importance.
Its level of productivity has a significant effect on national economic
growth. Productivity indicators are examined. The indicators consist of
labour productivity, capital productivity, labour competitiveness, capital
intensity and added value content of data, which are obtained from the
published census/biannual surveys of the construction industry between the
years 1999 and 2011 from the Department of Statistics of Malaysia. The
results indicated that there is an improvement in the labour productivity,
but the value-added content is declining. The civil engineering and
special trades subsectors are more productive than the residential and
non-residential subsectors in terms of labour productivity because
machine-for-labour substitution is a more important process in those
subsectors. The capital-intensive characteristics of civil engineering and
special trade works enable these subsectors to achieve higher added value
per labour cost but not the capital productivity. The added value per
labour cost is lower in larger organizations despite higher capital
productivity. However, the capital intensity is lower and unit labour cost
is higher in the larger organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1055-1069
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.711910
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.711910
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1055-1069
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Vivien W. Chow
Author-X-Name-First: Vivien W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chow
Author-Name: Denny Mcgeorge
Author-X-Name-First: Denny
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcgeorge
Title: Modelling the risks of extreme weather events for Australasian hospital infrastructure using rich picture diagrams
Abstract:
Anticipated increases in the frequency of extreme weather events in the
future are likely to expose hospital infrastructure to new risks which are
poorly understood. Traditional approaches to risk identification and
analysis produce linear, narrow and static risk profiles which fail to
consider complex sub-system interdependencies that may assist or hinder
healthcare delivery during an extreme weather event. The ability to create
resilient hospitals depends on new risk management methodologies which
provide an understanding of these complex relationships. Focus groups with
key stakeholders in three hospitals in Australia are used to construct
rich picture diagrams (RPDs) of hospital infrastructure interdependencies
under different extreme weather event scenarios. They show that the risks
posed to hospitals by extreme weather events cannot be considered in
isolation from the surrounding infrastructure, emergency management
systems, health systems and communities in which they are imbedded. The
new insights provided have major governance and policy implications for
agencies responsible for ensuring that hospital infrastructure can
continue to support the delivery of effective health services during
extreme weather events.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1071-1086
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.725941
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.725941
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1071-1086
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Phuong Quynh Tran
Author-X-Name-First: Phuong Quynh
Author-X-Name-Last: Tran
Title: Effects of interpersonal relations on public sector construction contracts in Vietnam
Abstract:
Public owners and private contractors and consultants are expected to
maintain arm’s length relationships with each other to avoid any
accusation of corruption. In the context of public construction projects
in Vietnam, this study examines: the relational contracting (RC) related
behavioural patterns that lead to better interpersonal relations during
the construction stage and at the end of the project among public project
owners, and private contractors and consultants; and the extent to which
better interpersonal relations affect project performance. Using a
questionnaire survey, data were collected from public owners and private
contractors and consultants in Vietnam. Correlation analysis shows that
there exist several behavioural patterns that significantly affect
interpersonal relations among project team members during the construction
stage and at the end of the project, and the general harmony during the
construction stage. It was also found that cost performance is
significantly correlated with project harmony level. Schedule performance
is significantly correlated with interpersonal relations between project
team members during the construction stage, and at the end of the project.
The findings indicate the important role that interpersonal relations play
in project outcomes and vice versa. The behavioural patterns that are
found to be significantly correlated with harmony during the construction
stage and/or relationships among project team members suggest that
concrete actions may be taken by owners, consultants and contractors to
improve relationships, and thereby improve cost and schedule outcomes. It
is recommended that owners, consultants and contractors adopt some of the
behavioural patterns identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1087-1101
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.729848
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.729848
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1087-1101
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: New Aspects of Quantity Surveying Practice
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1103-1105
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.723128
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.723128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1103-1105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helena Johnsson
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnsson
Title: Construction Purchasing and Supply Chain Management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1105-1107
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.722223
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.722223
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1105-1107
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Göran Lindahl
Author-X-Name-First: Göran
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindahl
Title: Innovations in Hospital Architecture
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1107-1109
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.723808
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.723808
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1107-1109
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Allan
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Allan
Title: Infrastructure Sustainability and Design
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1109-1112
Issue: 12
Volume: 30
Year: 2012
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.727009
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.727009
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:30:y:2012:i:12:p:1109-1112
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jin-Lee Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Jin-Lee
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Title: Genetic algorithm stopping criteria for optimization of construction resource scheduling problems
Abstract:
Genetic algorithms (GAs) have been widely applied in the civil and
construction engineering management research domain to solve difficult and
complex problems such as resource-constrained project scheduling problems
(RCPSPs). Generally, a trial-and-error calibration approach is used to
identify values for the GA parameters. Unlike with other parameters, few
studies have been done, theoretically or experimentally, for determining
when to terminate GA for optimization of the RCPSP. Two genetic algorithm
stopping conditions are compared to demonstrate their suitability for
application in the RCPSP and to assess their ability in searching optimal
solutions efficiently. The extensive computational results show that the
Elitist GA, when using the unique schedule method, provides 10% more
optimum values than those obtained from the Elitist GA when using the
iteration method with 24% less computational time. The unique schedule
stopping approach can be valuable for GA users to design their purpose
driven GA for optimization of the RCPSP as it provides a better
near-optimal solution with reduced computational time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-19
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.697181
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.697181
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:3-19
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Raisbeck
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Raisbeck
Author-Name: Llewellyn C.M. Tang
Author-X-Name-First: Llewellyn C.M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tang
Title: Identifying design development factors in Australian PPP projects using an AHP framework
Abstract:
In Australia consortiums will come together and create an initial design
concept or sketch design at the public--private partnership (PPP) bid
stage. If the bid is successful this initial design is then developed
further. However, a winning bid may have been evaluated on financial
criteria alone and the consortium’s capability to develop the
design through to project delivery may not have been thoroughly evaluated.
In theory, design is a key process in PPP projects and the aim of the
research was to understand what capabilities are important in the
development of a design through this process. To clarify these issues, a
range of activities and organizational factors linked to design
development are proposed using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)
method. This method was chosen in order to see which design development
factors were ranked more highly by experts. In this research the hierarchy
was designed employing the categories of exploratory and exploitative
design development. Below each of these overarching categories, there were
four design development functional distinctions: the two exploratory
distinctions were Design (D) and Design Management (DM). The two
exploitative distinctions were Design Support (DS) and Design
Infrastructure (DI). A further list of 36 design development sub-criteria
was developed under the above categories. These sub-criteria formed the
basis of a survey of respondents drawn from a database of industry sources
in the public domain as well as a list gathered from a large developer
involved in PPP projects. It included relatively senior managers, PPP
project managers and architects. Survey respondents identified a recent
PPP project that they had worked on. From the 36 responses it can be seen
that the exploratory Design (D) and Design Management (DM) activities were
ranked more highly than the exploitative activities of Design Support (DS)
and Design Infrastructure (DI) associated with a PPP project organization.
This suggests that PPP frameworks should account for these exploratory
factors as well as the exploitative factors associated with compliance,
quality systems and project team infrastructure. This indicates that in
PPP projects design development through the effective management of an
initial design is a critical factor.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 20-39
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.729133
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.729133
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:20-39
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Håkan Håkansson
Author-X-Name-First: Håkan
Author-X-Name-Last: Håkansson
Author-Name: Malena Ingemansson
Author-X-Name-First: Malena
Author-X-Name-Last: Ingemansson
Title: Industrial renewal within the construction network
Abstract:
The construction business network is generally seen as conservative and
non-innovative, for which a number of reasons have been identified. One of
these reasons relates to the special inter-organizational setting that
exists within the industry. The starting point of our study was to
investigate whether there is any truth in this perceived lack of
innovation. One reason for the industry’s bad reputation could be
that the way innovation generally is defined and measured is unsuitable
for the construction business. Therefore, renewal was used as the central
concept of change in our investigation. The second issue concerns factors
that either assist or impede renewal, and the ambition was to identify
those factors driving, as well as those hindering renewal. In order to
identify the degree of renewal, as well as the factors affecting it, we
conducted a survey of Swedish construction companies. The resulting
picture shows a clear connection between the inter-organizational
interfaces within the industry and how renewal takes place. The total
renewal activity is on a considerable level with more than 60% having made
changes visible from the customer’s point of view. The most active
interface is also in relation to customers, while the relationship to
suppliers generally is more distant. Finally, the project focus which
characterizes the industry affects what type of renewal takes place, and
exposes the lack of knowledge transfer between individual projects and
actors as an important hindrance to renewal in the construction network.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 40-61
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.737470
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.737470
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:40-61
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Craig Langston
Author-X-Name-First: Craig
Author-X-Name-Last: Langston
Title: The role of coordinate-based decision-making in the evaluation of sustainable built environments
Abstract:
In an era when sustainability and climate change mitigation are
paramount, it is important that built environment professionals make
robust and transparent decisions regarding future development. A new
approach is outlined and tested for assessing sustainability for built
infrastructure using a quadrant model and 3D spatial coordinates. The
chosen method involves a case study of a high performance green building
in Australia that was constructed in 2008. The investigation demonstrates
that the model is practical and produces an appropriate outcome, which is
then compared with seven other generic types of built infrastructure. The
inclusion of development scale or influence in the model is an important
feature that can lead to differences in ranking preference. The findings
support embedding essential environmental considerations objectively into
decision-making processes via the use of an economic ratio (return on
investment to energy usage), a social ratio (functional performance to
loss of habitat) and a measure of sustainability risk as
x, y and z coordinates
respectively, plotted in 3D space.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 62-77
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.738920
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.738920
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:62-77
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carole Boudeau
Author-X-Name-First: Carole
Author-X-Name-Last: Boudeau
Title: Design team meetings and the coordination of expertise: the roof garden of a hospital
Abstract:
The coordination of work and expertise in construction projects is often
treated in terms of models or formal rules. However, much is to be gained,
if we are to understand it, by examining actual coordination practices.
The objective in this article is to address practices of coordination of
expertise in the context of design team meetings. The focus is
specifically on conversational practices between the structural engineer
and the landscape architect who are part of the design team in a
healthcare infrastructure project. The central argument is that the
coordination of expertise relied on and was organized by mundane and
everyday methods, and not by formal and abstract ones. This argument is
drawn from ethnomethodology, a form of sociological analysis that focuses
on the situated methods by which activities are produced, but shares
concerns found in the literature on actual project management practices.
The ethnomethodological stance, however, offers a different perspective on
the significance of the empirical reality of projects and a possibility to
incorporate within this literature a concern with the ordinary methodical
organization of project activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 78-89
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.738301
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.738301
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:78-89
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard de Valence
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard de
Author-X-Name-Last: Valence
Title: Construction management strategies: a theory of construction management By Milan Radosavljevic and John Bennett, Wiley-Blackwell, London, 2012. ISBN
978-0-470-65609-9, £39.99 (pb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 90-93
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.736025
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.736025
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:90-93
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Emmitt
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Emmitt
Title: Construction Innovation and Process Improvement Akintola Akintoye, Jack Goulding and Girma Zawdie (eds), Wiley-Blackwell, London 2012,
456 pp, ISBN 978 1 4051 5648 6, £72.50 (hb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 93-95
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.729846
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.729846
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:93-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bland Tomkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Bland
Author-X-Name-Last: Tomkinson
Title: Post-disaster Reconstruction of the Built Environment: Rebuilding for Resilience Edited by Dilanthi Amaratunga and Richard Haigh,
Wiley-Blackwell, London, 2011 336 pp, ISBN 978 1 4443 3356 5, £75.00 (hb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 95-96
Issue: 1
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.729847
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.729847
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:1:p:95-96
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: A critical review of the application of TCE in the interpretation of risk allocation in PPP contracts
Abstract:
Along with the rise of public--private partnerships (PPPs) as
a mainstream procurement system, we have seen a growing interest in
studies of risk allocation in these projects. One of the serious academic
endeavours is to apply both transaction cost economics (TCE) and the
resource-based view (RBV) to explain risk allocation patterns found in PPP
projects. The existing literature along these lines is deficient in three
aspects: inappropriate choice of unit of analysis; poor specification of
governance structure; and misinterpretation of asset specificity. A way
for improvement is to analyse risk allocation in the context of PPP
procurement in its entirety.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 99-103
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.726365
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.726365
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:99-103
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lena Elisabeth Bygballe
Author-X-Name-First: Lena Elisabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Bygballe
Author-Name: H?kan H?kansson
Author-X-Name-First: H?kan
Author-X-Name-Last: H?kansson
Author-Name: Marianne Jahre
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Jahre
Title: A critical discussion of models for conceptualizing the economic logic of construction
Abstract:
The construction industry has developed a certain economic
logic that reflects the way in which tasks, parts, and units are organized
and related to each other in order to create economic benefits in the
construction process. Four different models in the literature portray this
logic. We examine how they complement and constitute alternatives to
understandings of the economic logic of the construction industry. Along
with transaction cost economics, we have identified three more empirically
based models: a project-oriented model, a supply-chain-oriented model, and
a network-oriented model. Associated with different streams of research,
these models are discussed in terms of the typical problems and key
interdependencies in the construction process they address, and the type
of solutions they suggest, including organizing principles for how
construction parties should relate to each other. The findings show how
examining different models provides a comprehensive, albeit non-exhaustive
overview and an explanation of why the construction process is organized
in the way it is. There is a need for increased awareness of the
utilization of models (or combinations of models) and the models must also
be seen as arguments in a broader discussion of how the construction
process could or should function.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 104-118
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.745645
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.745645
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:104-118
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Christoffer Gottlieb
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan Christoffer
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottlieb
Author-Name: Kim Haugb?lle
Author-X-Name-First: Kim
Author-X-Name-Last: Haugb?le
Title: Contradictions and collaboration: partnering in-between systems of production, values and interests
Abstract:
For more than a decade, partnering has been pursued as a
promising way of overcoming the drawbacks of the building process. Despite
intense and repeated efforts, promises have only to some extent been
satisfied. Based on an example case study of a partnering project,
activity theory is applied in an analysis of how project outcomes are
shaped mutually by the underlying dynamics of construction and innovative
initiatives like partnering. The case was studied through a combination of
questionnaire surveys, interactive workshops, semi-structured qualitative
research interviews and onsite observations. Three main findings are
presented. First, that the dynamics of construction can be understood as
the interrelation of three activity systems on production, values and
interests. Second, partnering as a change strategy is overlaid on existing
practice rather than substituting it. Third, partnering may reduce some
contradictions but induces others simultaneously. In conclusion, the
potential of partnering as a change strategy depends on the ability to
understand and manage contradictions in and between existing
institutionalized activity systems in construction of production, values
and interests.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 119-134
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756141
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756141
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:119-134
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Gerth
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Gerth
Author-Name: Albert Boqvist
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Boqvist
Author-Name: Marcus Bjelkemyr
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Bjelkemyr
Author-Name: Bengt Lindberg
Author-X-Name-First: Bengt
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindberg
Title: Design for construction: utilizing production experiences in development
Abstract:
The design process has a significant impact on the
performance and profitability of a housing project. Therefore, decisions
made during the design process should take into consideration knowledge
and experience from other processes in previously accomplished projects,
specifically from the production phase. How to capture and use production
experience in housing has not gained enough interest, possibly leading to
sub-optimal improvements during the construction process. This motivates
research on how onsite production experience from similar previous
projects can be captured and used to improve constructability without
risking customer values. Based on the concept of constructability,
‘design for manufacturing and assembly’ and the theory of
waste, the method ‘design for construction’ (DFC) has been
developed. The four-step model complements the conventional construction
process, and consists of the following steps: (1) specify customer values
and similar previous projects; (2) identify onsite waste and cost drivers
in previous projects; (3) develop criteria to evaluate constructability;
and (4) evaluate constructability of the design. The DFC method is
exemplified and tested through a case study, in which it was shown that
the method facilitated identification of all problems that were considered
in the investigated project. The method also highlighted other project
obstacles that potentially could have been solved to improve
constructability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 135-150
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756142
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756142
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:135-150
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: R?is?n Murphy
Author-X-Name-First: R?is?n
Author-X-Name-Last: Murphy
Title: Strategic planning in construction professional service firms: a study of Irish QS practices
Abstract:
The role and usefulness of strategic planning has been
documented over several decades of strategic management research. Despite
the significant body of existing knowledge in the field of strategic
planning, there remains limited empirical investigation of the
construction sector, specifically professional service firms operating
within it. The construction sector is hugely important to the Irish
economy, yet until now, no empirical investigation has been undertaken to
determine the strategic planning process in construction professional
service firms in Ireland. A two-phase mixed methods study was undertaken
to ascertain the extent of strategic planning within quantity surveying
(QS) practices in Ireland. Characteristics of the strategic planning
process differ between practices to such a degree that three groups of
practices are apparent. Groups are differentiated along dimensions of size
and ownership structure, which influence the generic strategies and
competitive positioning of practices. Strategic planning process formality
and the existence of a written plan are positively associated with large
practices that form part of a global organization. Informal strategic
planning is undertaken in practices without a written strategic plan but
tends to be tactical (project-based) rather than strategic in nature. The
realization of the need for systematic strategic planning in QS practices
is, however, beginning to emerge, given the turbulent environment within
which the firms are competing. While the conclusions are specific to the
QS profession, the research has been designed such that it has potential
to be applied to other professional service firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 151-166
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.736026
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.736026
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:151-166
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence T.T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence T.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Construction management research at the individual level of analysis: current status, gaps and future directions
Abstract:
Individual-level constructs are seldom taken into
consideration in construction management research relating to project
performance. This is antithetical to the objectives of properly
conceptualizing and contextualizing the research we do because many
project performance outcomes, such as the extent of cooperation and level
of communication or teamwork are influenced and moderated by individuals'
perceptions, values and behaviour. A brief review of the literature in
organizational studies centred on culture, identity, empowerment and trust
is offered. These constructs are then explored in relation to project
performance issues and outcomes, and it is noted that they are
predominantly studied at the project and industry levels. We argue that
focusing these constructs at the individual unit of analysis has
significant implications for project performance and therefore their
effects need to be systematically accounted for in explanations of the
success and failure of projects. Far from being prescriptive, the aim is
to generate interest and awareness for more focused research at the
individual level of analysis in order to add new insights and perspectives
to critical performance questions in construction management. To this end,
a research agenda is outlined, arguing that construction management
research integrating individual-level constructs and broader,
macro-contextual issues will help define and enhance the legitimacy of the
field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 167-179
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.707325
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.707325
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:167-179
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cindy L. Menches
Author-X-Name-First: Cindy L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Menches
Author-Name: Juan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Juan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Title: Using ecological momentary assessment to understand a construction worker’s daily disruptions and decisions
Abstract:
Capturing the momentary decisions and actions made by
construction workers in response to workflow disruptions is challenging
because, until now, there has not been a minimally disruptive data
collection method that allows workers to identify their decision process
‘in the moment’. However, an Ecological Momentary Assessment
(EMA) method—designed to capture momentary work experiences in
natural settings—can provide researchers with detailed information
about the daily challenges experienced by workers during the course of
performing their tasks. An explanation of the method is provided, along
with examples of the types of research questions that can be addressed and
appropriate analysis techniques. The EMA method is being used on a
federally funded research programme in the United States that is
investigating how construction workers adapt to workflow disruptions by
improvising their decisions and actions. Consequently, this article
demonstrates the use of the method by presenting an idiographic study of
William, an electrical construction worker. The evaluation of
William’s disruptions, decisions and actions elucidated an
important relationship: every one of William’s
disruptions required an improvisational action in order for him to
continue working. The EMA method opens the door to the development of new
theories about rapid decisions and subsequent actions on construction
sites.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 180-194
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.717707
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.717707
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:180-194
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ksenia Chmutina
Author-X-Name-First: Ksenia
Author-X-Name-Last: Chmutina
Title: Building for a Changing Climate: The Challenge for Construction, Planning and Energy
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 195-197
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.757337
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.757337
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:195-197
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Clara Greed
Author-X-Name-First: Clara
Author-X-Name-Last: Greed
Title: Human Resource Management in Construction: Critical Perspectives
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 197-200
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.751492
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.751492
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:197-200
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Caven
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Caven
Title: Human Resource Management in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 200-202
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.745941
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.745941
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:200-202
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lucio Soibelman
Author-X-Name-First: Lucio
Author-X-Name-Last: Soibelman
Title: Integral Sustainable Design
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 202-203
Issue: 2
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.735368
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.735368
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:2:p:202-203
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mengchun Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Mengchun
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Dongping Fang
Author-X-Name-First: Dongping
Author-X-Name-Last: Fang
Title: A cognitive analysis of why Chinese scaffolders do not use safety harnesses in construction
Abstract:
Chinese scaffolders not using safety harnesses is
commonplace, despite scaffolders being constantly exposed to fall hazards
on construction sites and the use of safety harnesses being required by
law. The causes of Chinese scaffolders not using safety harnesses are
explored through theoretical analyses and empirical tests. In theoretical
analyses, based on Surry’s model, the major cause of scaffolders
not using safety harnesses was identified as their personal decisions not
to do so. The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) was used to analyse why
scaffolders decided not to use safety harnesses. In empirical tests,
scaffolders on seven sites completed questionnaires developed based on
TPB, and nine safety officers participated in a focus group meeting to
collect their views on scaffolders’ use of safety harnesses. In
addition, two scaffolders, one gangmaster, one safety officer, and one
foreman were interviewed to verify the results of the questionnaire
survey. Empirical tests results show that the inconvenience and discomfort
of using safety harnesses, underestimating the risk of not using safety
harnesses, negative pressures from gangmasters, foremen, and safety
officers, and lack of safety lines are causes of scaffolders deciding not
to use safety harnesses. Measures enhancing the use of safety harnesses
are proposed based on the results of empirical tests.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-222
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.764000
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.764000
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:207-222
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abraham Park
Author-X-Name-First: Abraham
Author-X-Name-Last: Park
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: Impacts of construction events on the project equity value of the Channel Tunnel project
Abstract:
With the growing strains on public resources, many
governments in recent years have turned to the private sector for
infrastructure project financing. The special purpose vehicles (SPVs)
taking on such projects usually have a two-stage business model: a
construction stage followed by an operating stage. However, the project
risk in stage 1 is very high, and in most cases, the impacts of specific
construction events on project risk and capital cost are unobservable
owing to lack of informational transparency. Eurotunnel (the Channel
Tunnel project) is unique in that the share price data for the entire
construction period are publicly available. Based on event study
methodology, empirical tests were conducted for several well-documented
Eurotunnel construction events to measure and assess the project risk and
the impacts of such events on the SPV’s equity value. The test
results show that: (1) during the construction stage, efforts to better
manage the interests and incentives of contractors produce more
significant positive impact on investors than efforts for cost
containment; (2) during the construction stage, meeting the project
deadline is a higher investor priority than containing construction cost;
and (3) once the construction phase is complete, the investors’
priority then becomes the overall cost and the impact of construction
events on the expected returns from investment. Finally, the level of risk
and the potential conflicts of interest that arise during the construction
phase of a mega infrastructure project are such that turning to IPOs to
provide equity capital may not be appropriate.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 223-237
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.761715
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.761715
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:223-237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gunnar Lucko
Author-X-Name-First: Gunnar
Author-X-Name-Last: Lucko
Title: Supporting financial decision-making based on time value of money with singularity functions in cash flow models
Abstract:
Existing budgeting approaches differ in whether or not they
consider the time value of money. A novel use of singularity functions in
construction management has the potential to enhance cash flow models in
order to maximize their net present value. This type of function can model
a complete schedule, which serves as the underlying timeline for all
financial transactions. Their variable amounts and constraints are
expressed by singularity functions, converted from costs via bills into
payments, and compounded towards the overall net present value for
financial decision-making. Contributions to the body of knowledge include
deriving exact amounts of interest on variable balances for any duration,
creating a valuation algorithm, and exploring how the uneven solution
space that cash flow profiles create can be searched successfully with a
genetic algorithm.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 238-253
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.750728
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.750728
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:238-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Grace Ding
Author-X-Name-First: Grace
Author-X-Name-Last: Ding
Author-Name: Perry John Forsythe
Author-X-Name-First: Perry John
Author-X-Name-Last: Forsythe
Title: Sustainable construction: life cycle energy analysis of construction on sloping sites for residential buildings
Abstract:
In 2010, the Australian residential construction sector
contributed about 28% of the value of all construction and was responsible
for 8% of the total energy consumption. Residential construction will
continue to increase to cope with the demand due to population growth.
Owing to land scarcity, construction on sloping sites has become a common
construction method for residential development in Australia. This method
has economic benefits but poses environmental issues as it damages
topsoil, disturbs natural drainage and groundwater pathways and imposes
additional stress on soil under fill. The life cycle energy consumption of
the construction process is examined in relation to residential projects
on sloping sites on a range of slopes and soil types in New South Wales,
Australia. Forty-one detached dwellings were selected and a service life
of 60 years assumed for the study. The research findings reveal that the
slope for each type of soil has a positive correlation with life cycle
energy consumption. As part of the onsite construction process, the
results also show that the energy consumption of construction on sloping
sites plays a significant factor in the life cycle energy analysis of a
building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 254-265
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.761716
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.761716
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:254-265
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Maartje Van Reedt Dortland
Author-X-Name-First: Maartje
Author-X-Name-Last: Van Reedt Dortland
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Geert Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Title: Real options in project coalitions in Dutch health care: two case studies of construction projects
Abstract:
Uncertainties affecting health organizations inevitably
influence real estate decisions since real estate is required to
facilitate the primary process in cure and care. Decisions have to be
taken when there is little knowledge about the future. Therefore,
flexibility is needed in the process of designing, constructing and
operating real estate. Real options provide an approach to gain greater
insight into flexibility. The aim is to analyse whether real options can
be recognized in the real estate strategies of health organizations and
what real options are provided by various forms of project coalition. Two
case studies reveal that real options thinking can indeed be recognized in
specific real estate strategies. The choice of certain real options is
partly a result of the type of project coalition applied. Further
development of real options thinking in real estate management in cure and
care creates opportunities to deal with future uncertainties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 266-286
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.738921
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.738921
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:266-286
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Gardiner
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Gardiner
Title: Sustainability and design ethics By Tom Russ, CRC Press, London, 2010. ISBN 978-1-43-980854-2, £39.99 (pb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 287-288
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.757335
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.757335
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:287-288
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christine R?is?nen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: R?is?nen
Title: Culture in International Construction Wilco Tijhuis and Richard Fellows, Spon Press, London, 2011 224 pp, ISBN 978 0 415 47275 3, £65.00 (hb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 288-291
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.737469
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.737469
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:288-291
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title:Flood Hazards Jessica Lamond, Colin Booth, Felix Hammond and David Proverbs (eds), CRC Press, London, 2011 387 pp, ISBN 978 1 4398262 5 6, £82.00 (hb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 291-296
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.745940
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.745940
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:291-296
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Niels-Jørgen Aagaard
Author-X-Name-First: Niels-Jørgen
Author-X-Name-Last: Aagaard
Title: Whole Life Costing: A New Approach Peter Caplehorn, Routledge, London, 2012 136 pp., ISBN 978 0 415 43423 2, £34.99 (pb)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 296-300
Issue: 3
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756140
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756140
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:3:p:296-300
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Huan Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Huan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Niche comparisons: toward a new approach for analysing competition and organizational performance in the international construction market
Abstract:
Over the past few decades, studies on competition and
organizational performance in the international construction market have
been prolific. Construction companies are founded, then grow, compete,
evolve, and die in the international landscape, a common process from an
ecological perspective. However, few studies have considered the
international construction market from this perspective. Using niche
theory, which was initially populated in the field of natural bio-ecology
and then introduced to business management and economics, a NW/O-L (niche
width/overlap and location) framework is established in this study. With
this framework, the niche evolution of the top 225 international
contractors is explored along two dimensions—product and geography.
The effects of a proper niche on an international construction
company’s performance are also investigated using the cluster
analysis method. It was discovered that, despite fluctuations over time,
the contractor’s niche is highly related to its performance in the
international construction market. The most appropriate niche for
international construction contractors is a wide niche width, with a small
niche overlap and with its location near to the market centre with
comparatively more market resources. However, only a few contractors can
survive in this niche, as the majority of contractors are in a narrow
niche width, with a comparatively large niche overlap and far from the
market centre. Contractors which do not fit either of these two niches
have proved to be poor performers in this study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 307-321
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.777753
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.777753
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:307-321
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Annika Feige
Author-X-Name-First: Annika
Author-X-Name-Last: Feige
Author-Name: Patrick Mcallister
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Mcallister
Author-Name: Holger Wallbaum
Author-X-Name-First: Holger
Author-X-Name-Last: Wallbaum
Title: Rental price and sustainability ratings: which sustainability criteria are really paying back?
Abstract:
Given the centrality of the price mechanism to resource
allocation in market economies, the effect of sustainable construction on
real estate prices has become an increasingly important empirical issue
for market participants and policy makers in the real estate sector.
Drawing upon a sample of approximately 2500 residential building units in
Switzerland, this study assesses the effects of buildings’
sustainability on their rental prices. In contrast to the vast majority of
previous studies that have focused on the price effects of eco-labels,
this study investigates the effects of individual sustainability
attributes. Overall, we find a positive relationship between the
environmental performance of residential buildings and their rental
levels. Sustainable building characteristics, especially those which
enhance the water efficiency, the health and comfort level and the
building’s safety and security, have significant positive price
effects. It is argued that the unexpected negative relationship between
energy performance and rental prices is attributed to the bundling of
energy costs and rents in Swiss lease structures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 322-334
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.769686
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.769686
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:322-334
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ren-Jye Dzeng
Author-X-Name-First: Ren-Jye
Author-X-Name-Last: Dzeng
Author-Name: Jih-Shong Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Jih-Shong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Title: Efficiency measurement of the construction industry in Taiwan: a stochastic frontier cost function approach
Abstract:
Construction firms require a large cash flow, thereby
creating a significant financial leverage. Therefore, identifying a highly
effective cost efficiency model is essential for construction firms,
especially under the pressure of competition in today’s global
market. This research used stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) to model and
measure the cost efficiency of construction firms in Taiwan, and to
investigate the relationships between input resources and cost efficiency.
The main findings include: (1) subcontracting reduces labour capacity; (2)
larger firms can be more cost efficient; (3) appropriate financial
leverage increases cost efficiency and capital; and (4) reducing equipment
costs increases cost efficiency. These findings can help construction
firms to strategically adjust the management of their firm and improve
cost efficiency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 335-344
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787162
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:335-344
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Hartmann
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartmann
Author-Name: Marieke Hietbrink
Author-X-Name-First: Marieke
Author-X-Name-Last: Hietbrink
Title: An exploratory study on the relationship between stakeholder expectations, experiences and satisfaction in road maintenance
Abstract:
Despite the increased attention paid by road agencies to the
needs of infrastructure stakeholders, little is known about how the
satisfaction or dissatisfaction of infrastructure stakeholders with the
agencies’ service provision is formed. From the perspective of
public agencies the relationship between expectations, experiences and
satisfaction of infrastructure stakeholders affected by road maintenance
is explored. Drawing upon data collected during a road maintenance project
in the Netherlands it is shown that expectations only played a minor role
in the formation of satisfaction. Moreover, depending on the contextual
setting of the maintenance project, the importance of highway performance
impacts for the formation of satisfaction through expectations and
experiences changed. The results suggest that the value-in-use experience
and the time dependence of expectations account for the switch in
importance and the limited role of expectations. A main conclusion is that
road agencies should redirect their effort from trying to determine and
meet stakeholder expectations to allowing stakeholders to experience the
improvements of a maintenance project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 345-358
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.768772
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.768772
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:345-358
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Gruneberg
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gruneberg
Author-Name: Keith Folwell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Folwell
Title: The use of gross fixed capital formation as a measure of construction output
Abstract:
There is a need to model construction industries in different
countries for international construction marketing purposes and global
construction and environmental policy. In the absence of a common method
of construction data collection and analysis, estimates of the size of
national construction industries use econometric models. One such approach
relates contractors’ output to its share of gross fixed capital
formation (GFCF), and uses this relationship in one economy to estimate
construction output in another country. To examine the relationship
between contractors’ output and GFCF a number of regressions were
run. As GFCF is available for all countries, two candidate measures are
evaluated as proxies for construction output, namely total GFCF and the
construction element of GFCF. A strong relationship is found to exist
between UK construction output and GFCF. This is significant as a
validation of UK measures of construction output, although the two data
series are compiled separately using different samples and some
statistical variation would therefore be expected. The paper supports the
use of the total construction element in GFCF as a proxy for construction
output. This work therefore prepares the way for further modelling of
construction output internationally using detailed construction data and
GFCF.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 359-368
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.790555
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.790555
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:359-368
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mehmet Nihat Hanioglu
Author-X-Name-First: Mehmet Nihat
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanioglu
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Title: Teaming/timing sequences in hotel development projects
Abstract:
Branding secures easier financing, higher rates and
occupancies and repeat business in the hospitality industry. Hotel
operators use architectural and interior design elements to create
uniquely differentiated products for their brands. Owing to the expected
benefits, hotel owners often involve brand chain hotel operators in
designing their properties. However, although they are heavily involved in
the design, hotel operators leave it to the owner to deal with the
construction of the property and with the challenge of accomplishing the
design intent while completing the project on time and within budget. The
teaming/timing sequences available for a prospective hotel owner are
analysed. The consequences of the timing for adding the builder to the
project team in different project delivery methods are identified. Also,
the best practices relative to design coordination, constructability
reviews, value engineering, mock-up room reviews, price confirmation, and
project handover are considered. A custom software program
‘HotPlan’ is developed to assist owners in generating
conflict-free sequences of teaming/timing options and evaluating the
consequences of their preferences. Comparisons of the HotPlan-generated
sequences allow users to pick the alternative that most agrees with their
intentions. The study is relevant to other types of projects such as
residential and office buildings, airports, and hospitals where the
operator of the facility may participate in the development process right
from the start.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 369-385
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.778417
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.778417
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:369-385
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Lemer
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Lemer
Title: Design Innovation for the Built Environment: Research by Design and the Renovation of Practice
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 386-388
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.757336
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.757336
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:386-388
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paula Cardellino
Author-X-Name-First: Paula
Author-X-Name-Last: Cardellino
Title: The Design of Learning Spaces
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 388-391
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.757338
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.757338
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:388-391
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kjell Tryggestad
Author-X-Name-First: Kjell
Author-X-Name-Last: Tryggestad
Title: Sustainable Buildings and Infrastructure: Paths to the Future
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 391-394
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.770893
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.770893
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:391-394
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Title: Modern Construction: Lean Project Delivery and Integrated Practices
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 394-396
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.763999
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.763999
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:394-396
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David James Bryde
Author-X-Name-First: David James
Author-X-Name-Last: Bryde
Author-Name: Ralf Schulmeister
Author-X-Name-First: Ralf
Author-X-Name-Last: Schulmeister
Title: Applying Lean principles to a building refurbishment project: experiences of key stakeholders
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 397-397
Issue: 4
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.789703
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.789703
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:4:p:397-397
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita M.M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M.M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Use and misuse of the concept of culture
Abstract:
Culture is an all-pervading construct of human existence but
its conceptualization is contested. As such, it is problematic to define
or measure culture as different paradigms adopt radically different
approaches. Emic approaches are, essentially, inward-looking and, via a
constructivist paradigm, assert that a culture can be investigated validly
only from that culture's own perspective (idiographic). Etic approaches
are concerned with an outside view, especially for cross-cultural
investigations, and so tend to adopt a positivist perspective using
surveys, models and dimensions (nomothetic). With increasing acceptance of
varying conceptualizations, multiple methodologies and methods of
research, founded on alternative philosophical stances, differing
approaches to researching culture are pursued. However, several important
issues of debate remain and are addressed, especially surrounding the
seminal work of Geert Hofstede. Further concerns relate to levels of
analyses (notably, the ecological fallacy and its reverse), scales of
measurement for data collection and analysis, and their combination into
indices. How people adapt to and accommodate different cultures is
addressed, including structuring of organizational relationships
(alliances, etc.) and the enduring debate over whether culture can be
managed and the likely consequences of cultural management endeavours.
Thus, the approach of positive criticism is adopted in this review of
theory and literature to address the main issues in both the topic of
culture and its philosophical underpinnings, and of how research
methodologies and methods have been used in researching culture. Aspects
of good practice and of less good practice are identified throughout to
assist researchers and to stimulate further rigorous research into culture
in construction. Primary findings emphasize the imperative of coherent and
consistent uses of models and levels of analysis, care and rigour in use
of scales and attention to the impacts of language and culture on data
from respondents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 401-422
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.794296
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.794296
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:401-422
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henry A. Odeyinka
Author-X-Name-First: Henry A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Odeyinka
Author-Name: John Lowe
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Lowe
Author-Name: Ammar P. Kaka
Author-X-Name-First: Ammar P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaka
Title: Artificial neural network cost flow risk assessment model
Abstract:
Previous attempts have been made to model cash flow forecast
at the tender stage using net cash flow, value flow and cost flow
approaches. Despite these efforts, significant variations between the
actual and modelled forecasts were still observable. The main cause
identified is the issue of risk inherent in construction. Using the cost
flow approach, a model is developed to assess the impacts of risk
occurring during the construction stage on the initial forecast cost flow.
A questionnaire survey and case study approach were employed. As a first
step, a questionnaire survey was administered to UK construction
contractors to determine the significant risk factors impacting on their
cost flow forecast. Using mean ranking analysis, the survey yielded 11
significant risk factors. The second stage of data collection involves the
collection of forecast and actual cost flow data from case study projects
to establish their variations at predetermined time periods. Using the
significant risk factors identified in the first phase, relevant
construction professionals who worked on the case study projects were
requested to score the extent of risk occurrence that resulted in the
observed variations. A combination of these two sets of data was used to
model the impact of risk on cost flow forecast using an artificial neural
network back propagation algorithm. The model enables a contractor to
predict the likely changes to a cost flow profile due to risks occurring
in the construction stage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 423-439
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.802363
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.802363
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:423-439
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Pinder
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Pinder
Author-Name: Robert Schmidt III
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Schmidt III
Author-Name: Jim Saker
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: Saker
Title: Stakeholder perspectives on developing more adaptable buildings
Abstract:
Despite longstanding interest in the issue of adaptability,
there has been very little research into the motives and obstacles to
constructing more adaptable buildings, particularly from the perspective
of the stakeholders involved in the building development process. The
purpose of this study was to explore the reasons why more buildings are
not constructed to be more adaptable, first through a review of the
literature and then through interviews with industry stakeholders in the
UK, including architects, developers, engineers, property agents and local
authority planners. The literature review and stakeholder interviews
revealed a wide range of motives for constructing for adaptability, such
as a desire to reduce life cycle costs, to produce 'future-proof'
buildings, and to ensure that buildings are easier to sell and let.
However, the literature and interviews also revealed many obstacles to
creating more adaptable buildings, including an assumption that
adaptability always costs more, a lack of life cycle costing, uncertainty
about the benefits of adaptability, fragmentation between industry
stakeholders and short-term development models. The research highlighted
the need to develop a better understanding of the costs and benefits of
developing more adaptable buildings so that industry stakeholders can make
more informed decisions about their buildings under conditions of
uncertainty.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 440-459
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.798007
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.798007
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:440-459
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yang Miang Goh
Author-X-Name-First: Yang Miang
Author-X-Name-Last: Goh
Author-Name: David Chua
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Chua
Title: Neural network analysis of construction safety management systems: a case study in Singapore
Abstract:
A neural network analysis was conducted on a quantitative
occupational safety and health management system (OSHMS) audit with
accident data obtained from the Singapore construction industry. The
analysis is meant to investigate, through a case study, how neural network
methodology can be used to understand the relationship between OSHMS
elements and safety performance, and identify the critical OSHMS elements
that have significant influence on the occurrence and severity of
accidents in Singapore. Based on the analysis, the model may be used to
predict the severity of accidents with adequate accuracy. More
importantly, it was identified that the three most significant OSHMS
elements in the case study are: incident investigation and analysis,
emergency preparedness, and group meetings. The findings imply that
learning from incidents, having well-prepared consequence mitigation
strategies and open communication can reduce the severity and likelihood
of accidents on construction worksites in Singapore. It was also
demonstrated that a neural network approach is feasible for analysing
empirical OSHMS data to derive meaningful insights on how to improve
safety performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 460-470
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.797095
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.797095
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:460-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Espinoza
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Espinoza
Author-Name: Jeremy W.F. Morris
Author-X-Name-First: Jeremy W.F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Morris
Title: Decoupled NPV: a simple, improved method to value infrastructure investments
Abstract:
Despite its shortcomings, because of its simplicity, the net
present value (NPV) technique (or its close relative, the internal rate of
return) remains the valuation method most widely used by investors. In
this method, all risks associated with a project are lumped into a single
parameter (i.e. the risk premium) that is added to the risk-free interest
rate to obtain a risk-adjusted discount rate; thus, in essence, the time
value of money is adjusted for risk. However, because risk and time are
two separate variables, accounting for risk in this manner can lead to
substantial valuation errors, particularly for long-term investments which
are typical for large infrastructure projects. In this paper, an
alternative valuation method that decouples the time value of money from
the risk associated with a project is presented. The proposed method,
termed decoupled net present value (DNPV), is also simple yet flexible,
consistent and robust. The method allows investors to integrate heuristic
(i.e. experience based) techniques with sophisticated probabilistic and
stochastic techniques to price the risk associated with the value of the
asset created and/or the investment needed to create the asset. The
proposed method results in a consistent valuation free from the problems
typically associated with traditional net present value applications and,
more importantly, allows a seamless integration of project risk
assessment/management performed by technical experts into the project
financial valuation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-496
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.800946
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.800946
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:471-496
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Malcolm Horner
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Construction Law: An Introduction for Engineers, Architects, and Contractors
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 497-497
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.763998
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.763998
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:497-497
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Ofori
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Ofori
Title: Conflict in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 497-501
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.767465
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.767465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:497-501
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Aoife M. Finneran
Author-X-Name-First: Aoife M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Finneran
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Construction Safety and Health
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 501-502
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.770542
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.770542
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:501-502
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Gravitt
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravitt
Title: Risk and Insurance in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 502-503
Issue: 5
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.783703
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.783703
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:5:p:502-503
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Occupational health and safety in the construction industry
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 505-514
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.816435
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.816435
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:505-514
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dylan Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Author-Name: Sarah Pink
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Pink
Author-Name: Andy R.J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy R.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: 'In the air' and below the horizon: migrant workers in UK construction and the practice-based nature of learning and communicating OHS
Abstract:
Local, tacit and normally unspoken OHS (occupational health
and safety) knowledge and practices can too easily be excluded from or
remain below the industry horizon of notice, meaning that they remain
unaccounted for in formal OHS policy and practice. In this article we
stress the need to more systematically and routinely tap into these
otherwise 'hidden' communication channels, which are central to how
everyday safe working practices are achieved. To demonstrate this approach
this paper will draw on our ethnographic research with a gang of migrant
curtain wall installers on a large office development project in the north
of England. In doing so we reflect on the practice-based nature of
learning and sharing OHS knowledge through examples of how workers' own
patterns of successful communication help avoid health and safety
problems. These understandings, we argue, can be advanced as a basis for
the development of improved OHS measures, and of organizational knowing
and learning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 515-527
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756145
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756145
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:515-527
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Behzad Esmaeili
Author-X-Name-First: Behzad
Author-X-Name-Last: Esmaeili
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Integration of safety risk data with highway construction schedules
Abstract:
The construction industry is characterized by a relatively
high injury and illness rate compared to other industries. Within the
construction industry, the highway construction and maintenance sector is
one of the most dangerous. To improve safety in this sector, proactive
methods of safety improvement and reliable risk data are needed. The
safety risk quantification is the first step towards integrating safety
data into design and planning. To enhance the current preconstruction
safety practices, safety risks of highway construction and maintenance
tasks were quantified and a decision support system was developed and
tested that integrates safety risk data into the project schedules.
Relative safety risks were quantified for 25 common highway construction
tasks using the Delphi method. To ensure valid and reliable results,
experts were selected according to rigorous requirements and multiple
controls were employed to decrease cognitive biases. The data were
incorporated into a decision support system called Scheduled-based Safety
Risk Assessment and Management (SSRAM) that facilitates integration of
safety risk data with project schedules. The resulting data-driven system
produces predictive plots of safety risk over time based on the temporal
and spatial interactions among concurrent activities. To test the utility
of the decision support system and the validity of the underlying risk
data, the system was tested on 11 active case study projects in the US. It
was found that the database and associated decision support tool produce
accurate and reliable risk forecasts that increase the viability of
existing safety preconstruction activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 528-541
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.739288
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.739288
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:528-541
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard Francis Ayers
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Ayers
Author-Name: John F. Culvenor
Author-X-Name-First: John F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Culvenor
Author-Name: Jim Sillitoe
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: Sillitoe
Author-Name: Dennis Else
Author-X-Name-First: Dennis
Author-X-Name-Last: Else
Title: Meaningful and effective consultation and the construction industry of Victoria, Australia
Abstract:
Consultation between employers and employees is mandated
under Australian occupational health and safety legislation. For
consultation to be considered meaningful and effective, it is generally
accepted that moral and ethical principles such as trust, honesty,
commitment and respect need to be recognized and applied by individuals
during consultation. It is also considered that an organization's level of
cultural maturity is an important element in the ability of individuals to
freely engage in meaningful and effective consultation. If the value of
consultation is best reflected in the degree of input and control that
workers have regarding the very decisions that affect them, and if the
level of worker involvement is a reflection of an organization's level of
cultural maturity, it is debateable whether the notion of applying moral
and ethical principles during consultation, and the adoption of the
paradigm of organizational and cultural maturity, have been successfully
developed and embraced in the commercial and industrial sector of the
construction industry of Victoria, Australia.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 542-567
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.726366
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.726366
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:542-567
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rayyan Alsamadani
Author-X-Name-First: Rayyan
Author-X-Name-Last: Alsamadani
Author-Name: Matthew Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Author-Name: Amy Nicole Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy Nicole
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Title: Measuring and modelling safety communication in small work crews in the US using social network analysis
Abstract:
Effective safety communication between all parties in a
construction project is essential for optimal safety performance.
Literature suggests that open safety communication across all levels of
the organization enhances safety success. Previous studies have found that
open communication and frequent interaction between employees and
supervisors differentiate construction companies that have low accident
rates from companies that have high rates. Through interviews with
construction crew members on active construction projects in the Rocky
Mountain region of the US, the patterns of safety communication were
identified, modelled, and quantified. Social network analysis (SNA) was
utilized to obtain measures of safety communication such as centrality,
density, and betweenness within small crews and to generate sociograms
that visually depicted communication patterns within effective and
ineffective safety networks. A cross-case comparison revealed that the
frequency and method of communication are important differentiators
between project teams with low and high accident rates. Specifically, top
performing crews: (1) have formal safety communication from management on
at least a weekly basis; (2) have informal safety communication on a
weekly basis; (3) undergo formal safety training; and (4) use all proposed
safety communication methods on a monthly basis. In addition, typical SNA
metrics, including density, centrality and betweenness, are not
significant parameters to distinguish high from low performing crews.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 568-579
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.685486
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.685486
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:568-579
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Behm
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Behm
Author-Name: Arthur Schneller
Author-X-Name-First: Arthur
Author-X-Name-Last: Schneller
Title: Application of the Loughborough Construction Accident Causation model: a framework for organizational learning
Abstract:
In order for the construction industry to improve its poor
safety performance it needs to learn from its safety mistakes and put the
lessons learned to good use. Incident investigation theories and
techniques vary widely in the peer-reviewed literature. The Loughborough
Construction Accident Causation (ConAC) model was applied to State
Department of Transportation construction accidents, and is proposed as a
tool to facilitate organizational learning in the construction industry.
Details of the methodology utilized are described so that it can be
duplicated in research and in practice. By investigating 27 DOT
construction incidents, the research demonstrates how the model can be
used both in research and in practice. The model yielded 6.63
causes/factors/influences identified per incident, and correlated the
causes to determine relationships. Incident causality is complex and
multi-faceted. The Loughborough model facilitates a holistic view of
incident causality and thus organizational learning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 580-595
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.690884
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.690884
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:580-595
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Li
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Greg Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Greg
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Integrating real time positioning systems to improve blind lifting and loading crane operations
Abstract:
Mobile/tower cranes are the most essential forms of
construction plant in use in the construction industry but are also the
subject of several safety issues. Of these, blind lifting has been found
to be one of the most hazardous of crane operations. To improve the
situation, a real-time monitoring system that integrates the use of a
Global Positioning System (GPS) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
is developed. This system aims to identify unauthorized work or entrance
of personnel within a pre-defined risk zone by obtaining positioning data
of both site workers and the crane. The system alerts to the presence of
unauthorized workers within a risk zone-currently defined as 3m from the
crane. When this happens, the system suspends the power of the crane and a
warning signal is generated to the safety management team. In this way the
system assists the safety management team to manage the safety of hundreds
of workers simultaneously. An onsite trial with debriefing interviews is
presented to illustrate and validate the system in use.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 596-605
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756144
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756144
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:596-605
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zhipeng Zhou
Author-X-Name-First: Zhipeng
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhou
Author-Name: Javier Irizarry
Author-X-Name-First: Javier
Author-X-Name-Last: Irizarry
Author-Name: Qiming Li
Author-X-Name-First: Qiming
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Applying advanced technology to improve safety management in the construction industry: a literature review
Abstract:
Technology application is deemed an effective way to further
construction safety management. Various technologies have been adopted for
construction safety, including information communication technology (ICT),
sensor-based technology, 3S (GIS/GPS/RS) technology, radio frequency
identification (RFID) and virtual reality. A review of previous studies in
the area of technology applications for construction safety would be
indispensable for the main stakeholders in this field to share innovative
research findings and gain access to future research trends. A three-step
method was used to obtain relevant publications (119 papers met the
ultimate selection criteria) and compile a database of the findings. The
results present a general review of technology application for
construction safety from the aspects of number of papers published
annually, publication type, publication name, country/region of
distribution, research level, project phase and project type.
Corresponding analysis was performed with the collected data and the radar
chart was used for analysing the trend of technology application for
construction safety and the trend of research topics. Five research gaps
were identified in the review process. The trends and gaps can serve as
motivation for researchers and practitioners to work on the next
generation of studies and the development of future effective measures,
which can ensure a safe construction environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 606-622
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.798423
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.798423
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:606-622
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Peter Farrell
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Farrell
Author-Name: Rod Noble
Author-X-Name-First: Rod
Author-X-Name-Last: Noble
Title: UK construction site safety: discourses of enforcement and engagement
Abstract:
Developments in safety management on large UK construction
sites have seen a paradigm shift from enforcement-based systems to
safety-culture programmes, which seek to engage with the workforce to
create fully cooperative and safety-conscious sites. Founded in social
constructionism, recent research sought out the master discourses of
safety on large UK construction sites through the examination of safety
signage, talk around safety and safety documentation. Two of the most
prominent discourses of safety on sites were found to be safety as
enforcement and safety as engagement, reflecting the change in safety
management strategies. These discourses were found to be interrelated in
their constructions of safety, yet also varied in their associations with
practice, responsibility, social interactions and the management hierarchy
of the sites. These findings develop the current understanding of safety
found on sites, with relation to the hierarchical structures of safety
management and the discourses of enforcement and engagement in practice.
The findings have significance for the safety practices of large UK
contractors in developing and improving their safety-culture programmes,
as well as suggesting potential new directions in the academic research of
safety in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-635
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.747689
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.747689
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:623-635
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Daniel Marks
Author-X-Name-First: Eric Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Marks
Author-Name: Jochen Teizer
Author-X-Name-First: Jochen
Author-X-Name-Last: Teizer
Title: Method for testing proximity detection and alert technology for safe construction equipment operation
Abstract:
The US construction industry continues to be among the
leading industries for workplace fatalities after experiencing 818
fatalities in 2009. Approximately 21% of these fatalities resulted from
workers being struck by an object or piece of construction equipment. The
nature of construction sites often produces hazardous conditions by
requiring ground workers and heavy construction equipment to operate in
close proximity. The primary objective is to present a method for testing
proximity detection and alert systems. Experimental trials were designed
to deploy emerging radio frequency (RF) remote sensing technology to
demonstrate the ability of the test method to evaluate the capability of
proximity detection and alert systems to provide alerts when heavy
construction equipment and workers are in too close proximity to each
other. Numerous field experiments were designed and conducted to emulate
typical interactions between workers on foot and construction equipment.
These devices were installed on pieces of construction equipment in an
outdoor environment to evaluate the test method for proximity detection
and alert systems. Experimental results show that proximity detection and
alert technologies can provide alerts to equipment operators at different
pre-calibrated proximity alert ranges. The results suggest that the
presented testing method adequately evaluated the reliability and
effectiveness of the proximity detection and alert technology in the
construction environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 636-646
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.783705
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.783705
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:636-646
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marianne Forman
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Forman
Title: Inertia and change: lean construction and health and safety work on construction sites
Abstract:
Lean construction has been articulated as a concept that can
solve health and safety (H&S) problems at construction sites. The question
is whether it is that simple. Lean construction and H&S work can be
perceived as two different societal change programmes. The focus in this
article is on how organizations implement the change programmes and what
new forms of practice they stabilize as a result of the implementation
process. In particular, the stabilization of new routines for coupling
production planning and H&S work are investigated. Applied theories lie
within the areas of change processes in organizations, H&S and
construction management. The method was based on three qualitative case
studies. Three major Danish contractors were involved in the
investigation, and for each contractor a construction project was studied
on site over a six-month period. Contractors are project-based companies
and it seemed that the change programmes and the stabilized new practices
that relate production planning and H&S work at construction sites were
dependent on the relationship between the functional departments at the
company and the construction project, the organizational location of the
key actors that drive the change programmes, the 'softness' of the
concepts that are implemented and the perception of H&S.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 647-660
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.765953
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.765953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:647-660
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J�rgen Melzner
Author-X-Name-First: J�rgen
Author-X-Name-Last: Melzner
Author-Name: Sijie Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Sijie
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Jochen Teizer
Author-X-Name-First: Jochen
Author-X-Name-Last: Teizer
Author-Name: Hans-Joachim Bargst�dt
Author-X-Name-First: Hans-Joachim
Author-X-Name-Last: Bargst�dt
Title: A case study on automated safety compliance checking to assist fall protection design and planning in building information models
Abstract:
Worldwide occupational safety statistics show that the
construction industry in many countries experiences one of the highest
accident rates of all industry sectors. Falls remain a major concern as
they contribute to very serious injuries or even fatalities on
construction projects around the world. Since the standards and rules for
protective safety equipment vary by country, the growing numbers of
internationally operating companies are in need of tools that allow
ubiquitous understanding and planning of safety regardless of the country
where they operate. The problem is examined using a customizable automatic
safety rule-checking platform for building information models. The applied
rule-based checking algorithms are designed to be add-ons to existing
building information modelling (BIM) software and can check models for
safety hazards early in the design and planning process. Once hazards have
been identified preventative safety equipment can be designed, estimated,
and included in the construction schedule before construction starts. A
case study implements the safety rule-checking platform on a high-rise
building project. Fall protection regulations from both the USA and
Germany are applied to the developed rule-checking platform. Visualization
of the safety information further explains the differences in the results
once country-specific safety-regulative standards are applied on the same
building information model. The case study also indicates that the role of
BIM in safety design and planning can effectively assist the traditional
safety decision-making process for fall protection equipment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 661-674
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.780662
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.780662
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:661-674
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graeme D. Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Title: Safe construction through design: perspectives from the site team
Abstract:
How does the work of designers impact on the safety of
operatives at the construction site? Safety research and policy emphasize
the importance of designing for safe construction, yet the interface
between design and construction is poorly understood: accidents have
multiple causes making it hard to establish causal links between design
choices and safety outcomes. An in-depth case study of a major station
project examines how professionals on the construction site perceive and
manage the safety challenges of a building design. Analyses reveal
understandings that, on the project studied, design has an impact on
safety because of: (1) the timing of design work, where the volume of late
design changes increased the difficulty of planning safe procedures, e.g.
for working at height, lifting heavy items, refurbishing and demolishing
old buildings; and (2) inputs from design stakeholders with insufficient
practical knowledge of construction and operation required unplanned
work-arounds, e.g. to coordinate different sub-systems, provide
maintenance access, and manage loads during construction. These findings
suggest that safety suffers where projects are under-designed, and that
alongside regulation, there is a need for robust management attention to
the contractual structures, incentives, processes and tools that enable
clients and designers to understand material practices of construction and
operation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 675-690
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.798424
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.798424
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:675-690
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Title: From crew to country? Local and national construction safety cultures in Denmark
Abstract:
Accidents in construction have motivated a range of
prevention methods and efforts with more or less success. Cultural
explanations are of crucial importance in understanding risk at work and
this contribution adds to the growing body of qualitative studies of
safety culture. Symbolic interactionism is used as a conceptual
ethnographic framework to include integration, differentiation, ambiguity
and the multiple configuration of safety cultures. The primary case is a
carpenter's crew of 28 men engaged in renovation work. The analysis
reveals the overarching common integrative culture to be characterized by
pride in work. This culture overlaps with four cultures named
mastering, framework and rules,
drawing board and plan, and ties that
bind, found using the differentiation perspective. Ambiguous
perceptions are found regarding possibilities for prevention and risk,
which differ according to time, place and actor. This result is juxtaposed
with cultures found in four other ethnographic studies from Denmark
covering 10 companies. Although these studies find 25 different safety
cultures, a national pattern showing a configuration of reactive and
proactive safety cultures does seem prevalent. Accident prevention methods
need to be more sensitive to different safety cultures, on site and in
companies, but can also use national mechanisms such as training.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 691-703
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787490
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787490
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:691-703
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Design Risk Management: Contribution to Health and Safety
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 704-706
Issue: 6
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.808352
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.808352
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:6:p:704-706
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Author-Name: Stella Tomiyoshi
Author-X-Name-First: Stella
Author-X-Name-Last: Tomiyoshi
Author-Name: Mario Bourgault
Author-X-Name-First: Mario
Author-X-Name-Last: Bourgault
Author-Name: Juan Malo
Author-X-Name-First: Juan
Author-X-Name-Last: Malo
Author-Name: Georgia Cardosi
Author-X-Name-First: Georgia
Author-X-Name-Last: Cardosi
Title: Understanding differences in construction project governance between developed and developing countries
Abstract:
Whereas most experts recognize the substantial differences in
the construction sector between developed and developing countries, very
little is known about how and to what
extent construction project governance actually differs between
the two contexts. In order to shed light on these differences, a suitable
definition of project governance must be adopted and identical variables
must be assessed in developed and developing contexts. Three
characteristics of temporary multi-organizations that conduct construction
projects (used here as categories of analysis) help identify these
differences: formal structuring, informal structuring, and the role and
participation of stakeholders. Based on three case studies, a survey, and
semi-directed interviews, significant differences are found in how power
and authority are exercised (and leadership styles applied), in the use of
informality and in the roles assumed by stakeholders. Although the
analysis of such differences is often considered a diagnosis of problems
to be 'fixed' in projects in developing countries, we believe that these
differences should be read as project governance mechanisms of adaptation
to different environmental conditions, and therefore key elements that
need to be fully understood by professionals working in developing
countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-730
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.825044
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.825044
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:711-730
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bingsheng Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Bingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Xueqing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xueqing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yuan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Yinghua Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Yinghua
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Market structure of China's construction industry based on the Panzar-Rosse model
Abstract:
The structure-conduct-performance (SCP) paradigm posits that
market structure determines market performance, and the generally low
productivity of China's construction industry is a reflection of the
irrationality of its market structure. Currently, the main approaches for
measuring market structure can be classified as either structural
approaches or non-structural approaches. Because the statistical data on
structural approaches is one-sided, the indicators for the Panzar-Rosse
model (a non-structural approach) for the construction industry can be
selected by examining the Panzar-Rosse model and comparing the
characteristics of the construction industry with those of the banking
industry. The Panzar-Rosse model is employed to assess the market
structure of 21 listed companies in China's construction industry during
the period from 2009 to 2011. The analysis revealed that China's
construction industry operates under conditions of monopolistic
competition with free-entry equilibrium. The methods and results of the
research are expected to contribute to the advancement of theories related
to and methods of analysing the market structure of industries other than
the banking industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 731-745
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.817679
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.817679
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:731-745
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amirhosein Jafari
Author-X-Name-First: Amirhosein
Author-X-Name-Last: Jafari
Title: A contractor pre-qualification model based on the quality function deployment method
Abstract:
Contractors play a significant role in construction projects
and selection of the most appropriate contractor for the project is a
critical decision for clients. The pre-qualification of construction
contractors is accounted as a very important step in contractor selection
for every project. The main purpose of pre-qualification is to identify an
array of eligible contractors, which is required for post-qualification
steps and further considerations. Although there have been numerous models
for contractor pre-qualification, there are inadequate researches to
present a contractor pre-qualification model with consideration of the
project objectives or the project owner's requirements. A new contractor
pre-qualification model was developed with the aim of resolving this
issue. This model employs the quality function deployment (QFD) method,
and considers both the project owner's requirements and the contractor's
abilities. The results reveal that consideration of the project objectives
or the project owner's requirements and expectations can influence
contractor pre-qualification.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 746-760
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.825045
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.825045
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:746-760
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: MD Asrul Masrom
Author-X-Name-First: MD Asrul
Author-X-Name-Last: Masrom
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Title: Determinants of contractor satisfaction
Abstract:
Performance in the construction industry is increasingly
scrutinized as a result of the delays, cost overruns and poor quality of
the industry's products and services. Increasingly, disputes, conflicts
and mismatches of objectives among participants are contributory factors.
Performance measurement approaches have been developed to overcome these
problems. However, these approaches focus primarily on objective measures
to the exclusion of subjective measures, particularly those concerning
contractor satisfaction (Co-S). The contractor satisfaction model (CoSMo)
developed here is intended to rectify the situation. Data derived from a
questionnaire survey of 75 large contractors in Malaysia in respect of a
key project are analysed to identify participant factors and their
strength of relationship with Co-S dimensions. The results are presented
in the form of eight regression equations. The outcome is a tool for use
by project participants to provide a better understanding of how they, and
the project, affect contractor satisfaction. The developed model sheds
some light on a hitherto unknown aspect of construction management in
providing an increased awareness of the importance of major Malaysian
construction contractors' needs in the execution of successful projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 761-779
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.814919
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.814919
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:761-779
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Barrett
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Barrett
Title: Enhancing Building Performance
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 780-781
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.783704
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.783704
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:780-781
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Allan
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Allan
Title: Zero-Carbon Homes: A Road Map
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 782-787
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.780661
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.780661
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:782-787
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John M. Kamara
Author-X-Name-First: John M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kamara
Title: Requirements Engineering for Computer Integrated Environments in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 787-789
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787489
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787489
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:787-789
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Title: Facilities Change Management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 789-791
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787487
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787487
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:789-791
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Gardiner
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Gardiner
Title: Moving from Project Management to Project Leadership: A Practical Guide to Leading Groups
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 792-793
Issue: 7
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.797092
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.797092
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:7:p:792-793
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abigail Powell
Author-X-Name-First: Abigail
Author-X-Name-Last: Powell
Author-Name: Katherine J. C. Sang
Author-X-Name-First: Katherine J. C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Sang
Title: Equality, diversity and inclusion in the construction industry
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 795-801
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.837263
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.837263
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:795-801
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nick Rumens
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Rumens
Title: Queering men and masculinities in construction: towards a research agenda
Abstract:
The topic of gender in the construction industry now commands a
substantial literature given complaints about gender segregation and the
dominance of men, culturally and numerically, within the sector. However,
there is not enough research that problematizes men and masculinities as
diverse and multiple, or investigates how gender binaries are implicated
in sustaining heteronormativity within the construction scholarship,
thereby marginalizing research on sexualities. The possibilities for
'queering' current research agendas are examined in regard to 'men' and
'masculinities', by introducing queer theory as a conceptual resource for
disrupting and destabilizing facile notions of gender and sexuality as
fixed, stable and universal. It is argued that analyses about men and
masculinities in construction must take into account how men are situated
in relation to formations of difference such as gender
and sexuality. In so doing, concerns are expressed and
new concepts and research questions are suggested with the primary aim of
promoting but not prescribing further empirical research and theorizing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 802-815
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.765021
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.765021
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:802-815
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Queer eye on a 'straight' life: deconstructing masculinities in construction
Abstract:
The male-ness or masculine nature of the construction industry has often
been blamed for the problems of equality and diversity in the sector. Yet,
what constitutes masculinity in construction is rarely problematized.
Conventionally, masculinity in construction tended to be associated with
the subordination and harassment of minority groups (e.g. women,
non-heterosexuals), and the ideals of keeping fit in order to meet the
tough, physical demands of construction work. Therefore an attempt was
made to expand the conceptualization of alternative masculinities in
construction. By deploying queer theory, the life stories of nine
non-heterosexuals working in trade and professional occupations in the
construction industry were analysed to explore how a range of different
masculinities played out in the social interactions in their personal and
working lives. The findings suggest that conventional hegemonic
masculinity, while present, is not the only form of masculinity that
subordinates minority groups in construction. Rather, other non-hegemonic
forms of masculinity (e.g. found in homo-social contexts) also serve to
exclude both men and women. Nevertheless, examples were also identified of
minorities countering such exclusionary forms of masculinity through, for
instance, 'friendship' alliances at work, which could offer possibilities
for building a more inclusive workplace in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 816-831
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.832028
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.832028
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:816-831
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tessa Wright
Author-X-Name-First: Tessa
Author-X-Name-Last: Wright
Title: Uncovering sexuality and gender: an intersectional examination of women's experience in UK construction
Abstract:
UK employers have been broadening their equality and diversity activities
to include the issue of sexual orientation; however, the construction
industry has been slow to follow. Equally there is a lack of research on
the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) workers
in construction. While women's sexuality soon becomes a focus of interest
when they enter male-dominated work, little research has discussed how
sexual minorities-and in particular lesbians-fare in such environments.
This article examines how both gender and sexuality
interact to shape women's working lives within the UK construction sector,
drawing on 22 interviews and a focus group with heterosexual women and
lesbians in male-dominated occupations in construction. While women share
common experiences of heightened interest and questioning, open lesbians
can sometimes minimize the sexualized content of workplace interactions.
However the potential for exclusion on the basis of minority sexuality
also exists. Sexual harassment appears less prevalent for women in
professional occupations than in the past, while women in the manual
trades reported that the problem persists. Lesbians can experience
different forms of harassment, however, from heterosexual women, while
employers are less developed in their response to homophobic harassment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 832-844
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.794297
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.794297
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:832-844
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Teresa Marchant
Author-X-Name-First: Teresa
Author-X-Name-Last: Marchant
Title: Keep going: career perspectives on ageing and masculinity of self-employed tradesmen in Australia
Abstract:
The ageing workforce has implications for skills retention and equity in
construction and ageing of self-employed tradesmen. The aims here were to
define older tradesmen and present their experience of ageing along with
the implications for masculinity. Ageing, the ageing workforce and
construction management informed this conversation about diversity and
skills shortages, how tradesmen negotiate ageing, the way it is perceived
and how it impacts on masculinity. A phenomenological research design,
with 20, in-depth interviews from independent tradesmen was deployed.
Older tradesman defined themselves by physical capacity to work, rather
than chronological age. Self-initiated strategies increased longevity and
consisted of work adjustments such as paying for extra labour and machines
and scheduling less onerous work. If widely adopted, such accommodations
for the mainstream construction workforce might shift the masculine
culture of the industry for specific equity groups. There were numerous
possibilities for alternative work, but many disadvantages were
identified. Suggestions for the industry about retention included
self-care and personalized work adjustments. Recommendations for
individuals included proactively planning retirement, particularly in
terms of superannuation and other non-housing investment alternatives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 845-860
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.808353
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.808353
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:845-860
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Louisa Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Louisa
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Trading in gender for women in trades: embodying hegemonic masculinity, femininity and being a gender hotrod
Abstract:
The construction industry remains male dominated despite reforms in
recruitment, training and some workplaces since the 1970s. That said some
women do still enter the industry. The aim of this research was to explore
the embodied experiences of women who work in a particular area of
construction, that of manual skilled trades. Fifteen tradeswomen between
the ages of 21 and 60 were interviewed using a life history framework.
Unstructured and in-depth, the life history interviews covered a broad
range of topics including family history, education, embodiment, sexuality
and work. This method aimed to contextualize participants' experiences of
work within broader relations, allowing a space for participants to
discuss their labour processes beyond a conception of them as challenging.
The central finding of the research was that gender was not experienced as
stable or simple. Instead gender was contradictory. Some women also found
that being 'outside' the expectations of masculine cultures allowed them
to use their gender as a resource to work more smartly and more safely.
From the experiences of women in trades, pleasure is theorized as a useful
point of connection between women and between women and men in male
dominated work cultures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 861-873
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.833339
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.833339
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:861-873
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Caven
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Caven
Author-Name: Elena Navarro Astor
Author-X-Name-First: Elena Navarro
Author-X-Name-Last: Astor
Title: The potential for gender equality in architecture: an Anglo-Spanish comparison
Abstract:
The practice of architecture is very similar in different national
settings despite what may be very different sociological and cultural
origins of the profession, the attendant variances in how work is
organized and distinctions in equality and gender roles. The aim of this
paper is to examine the quest for equality in architecture for women in
the UK and Spain reporting the findings of a comparative study into women
architects' careers in the two countries. Within the qualitative paradigm,
semi-structured in-depth interviews were carried out with a total of 55
women architects in the UK and Spain. Findings indicate surprising
differences in levels and terms of equality for women in the two countries
and marked differences in women's experiences of working as an architect.
Women have come to the profession in Spain much later than their British
counterparts and, somewhat surprisingly, are present in greater numbers.
However, despite there being more of a 'critical mass' this has not served
to improve their situation; they report much higher levels of
discrimination and find it difficult to progress in their careers.
Conclusions argue for a stronger approach by the professional bodies to
help improve the position of women.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 874-882
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.766358
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.766358
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:874-882
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tanzina Choudhury
Author-X-Name-First: Tanzina
Author-X-Name-Last: Choudhury
Title: Experiences of women as workers: a study of construction workers in Bangladesh
Abstract:
In Bangladesh, women's mobility is culturally constrained and women need
to negotiate with patriarchy in order to join the male dominated labour
market outside the home. A large number of men continue to be highly
resistant to women's paid employment, partly because of the social norm of
purdah and partly because they tend to consider it a
shameful reflection on their ability as breadwinners, and hence on their
masculine identity. While surmounting these constraints, women enter into
full-time paid employment. However, the treatment of both men and women is
not equal and this is particularly so in the construction sector. Thus,
engaging in paid employment is not an easy decision to make and once women
eventually join the labour force they experience mixed outcomes. It
appears that paid work, on the one hand, confers on women greater economic
autonomy and mobility and, on the other, exposes them to different sorts
of deprivation and exploitation. In investigating these issues, the
narratives of female construction workers were used to describe their
experiences.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 883-898
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2012.756143
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2012.756143
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:883-898
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Birgit Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani Birgit
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Author-Name: Christine R�is�nen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: R�is�nen
Title: Striving to achieve it all: men and work-family-life balance in Sweden and the UK
Abstract:
Although there is a vast literature on issues of work-life balance, most
of the research is grounded on the traditional view of work-life balance
as a female-oriented entitlement. So far little attention has been paid to
how men balance their work-life situations, especially the 'new men' who
are keen to share the family care. We contribute to filling this gap by
critically examining how male academics in construction-related
departments at universities in Sweden and the UK construct their
relationships with family and work. Narrative analysis was applied on
in-depth interviews with seven academics from each country, who were at
different phases in their careers. Three core narratives emerged from the
data: family connected with partner; work as key priority; and desire to
pursue personal projects, all of which competed for the narrators' sparse
time. The narrative that by far received most space and most storylines in
all the interviews was 'work as priority', implying that in spite of
gender equality policies and campaigns, work-life balance remains a
female-oriented concern. Both Swedish and British men in our sample found
juggling family and life most challenging. This work-family-life triad
left many feeling that they had no time to do a good job in any sphere and
in Sweden in particular combination pressure was intense. Curiously,
despite these tensions and increasing demands for many of our respondents
work remains a positive construct, possibly because of the strong
conceptual identification of 'self' as an academic.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 899-913
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.802364
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.802364
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:899-913
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sandra Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Sandra
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Author-Name: Ann De Graft-Johnson
Author-X-Name-First: Ann De
Author-X-Name-Last: Graft-Johnson
Title: Towards inclusion: rethinking architectural education
Abstract:
In 2009, concerned at the low profile of disabled architects, the Royal
Institute of British Architects commissioned the University of the West of
England, Bristol to undertake research into the experiences of disabled
people both as students and as practitioners of architecture. The aim of
the research was to assess the current situation and identify and distil
best practice in encouraging and enabling disabled people to pursue an
architectural career. The research method included online questionnaires
and interviews with disabled people who were either studying or practising
as architects. Support workers, with a variety of roles and remits in both
education and practice, were interviewed to assess the level and quality
of provision and to determine attitudes towards disabled people. Websites
of schools of architecture and practices were analysed. Significant issues
were revealed relating to the representation and participation of disabled
people in architectural education and employment. In particular, the
educational ethos, curriculum and delivery raised concerns, as education
acts as a gatekeeper to the profession. It is concluded that architecture
schools and practitioners need to be proactive in creating more inclusive
cultures and approaches to design which in turn could benefit the design
of the built environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 914-927
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.797093
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.797093
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:914-927
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marcus Ormerod
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Ormerod
Author-Name: Rita Newton
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Newton
Title: Construction as a career choice for young disabled people: dispelling the myths
Abstract:
Disabled people want to have the same opportunities and experiences as
everyone else, yet owing to a number of barriers they are often excluded
from meaningful employment. There are few statistics available in the UK
to provide an accurate understanding of the number of disabled people
within construction, and there remains a lack of research on employment,
disability and construction. The perceptions of, and barriers faced by,
young disabled people in considering potential employment in the
construction industry were investigated. A participatory research approach
was adopted which places disabled people at the heart of the research
process. A mix of interviews and mini focus groups was undertaken with a
total of 49 participants drawn from the North West of England. The need
for inclusive approaches within the construction industry
came across strongly, with participants preferring to be treated equally
rather than being treated favourably. Disabled young people are unlikely
to consider employment within construction without better awareness
raising by industry-both employers and professional institutions-of the
range and scope of opportunities available, and a dispelling of the myths
that construction is for able-bodied, fit, men.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 928-938
Issue: 8
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.777465
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.777465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:8:p:928-938
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helena Johnsson
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnsson
Title: Production strategies for pre-engineering in house-building: exploring product development platforms
Abstract:
Construction is a trade where the dominating production strategy is
engineer-to-order. House-builders can pre-engineer their design to
different degrees, resulting in variations of the engineer-to-order
strategy: design-to-order, adapt-to-order, and engineer-to-stock. This
variation causes different settings for the use of platforms in
house-building. The aim of this research is to diversify the
engineer-to-order production strategy and its consequences for platform
organization by studying its use in house-building. The multiple case
study on four engineering/contractor firms reports the core capabilities
for engineer-to-order firms: procurement and tendering, market knowledge,
engineering, multi-skilled manufacturing, and coordination of sales and
manufacturing. Design-to-order, adapt-to-order and engineer-to stock were
shown to be production strategies in use in house-building. In
design-to-order platforms parts of the platform are undefined while
engineer-to-stock platforms are fully predefined. Coordination between
market and manufacturing is a crucial capability when engaging in platform
organization. When an engineering firm and a contractor collaborate to
fulfil client needs, the coordination capability between market and
manufacturing was shown to be low. The case study shows that specialized
contractors who integrate the supply chain towards a specific market
segment benefit fully from the platform concept, while contractors with a
wider scope could focus on standardization of processes rather than
products.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 941-958
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.828846
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.828846
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:941-958
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yee Cheong Yong
Author-X-Name-First: Yee Cheong
Author-X-Name-Last: Yong
Author-Name: Nur Emma Mustaffa
Author-X-Name-First: Nur Emma
Author-X-Name-Last: Mustaffa
Title: Critical success factors for Malaysian construction projects: an empirical assessment
Abstract:
Although extensive research has been undertaken on the critical success
factors (CSFs) for construction projects, very little of this research
contains information specific to the local context. While several local
studies have been conducted within a similar research boundary, variables
with growing importance in the literature, the human-related factors, have
yet to garner much attention. Therefore, the main objective of this study
was to gain a renewed understanding of the emerging trend of CSFs
considered by various stakeholders in the local industry. This was
achieved through a comparative study of 48 Malaysian construction
stakeholders classified into three categories, namely, developers,
consultants and contractors. The Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of
variance (ANOVA) on 46 factors suggests that the stakeholders favour a
more balanced approach to CSFs. Apart from the 'hard' factors, there is a
strong consistency among the perception of project stakeholders in
recognizing the significance of human-related 'soft' factors. The analysis
further reveals that the high scoring factors are mostly related to three
major aspects: (1) project personnel; (2) commitment and communication;
and (3) site management and supervision. Implementation of human-related
factors will help to stimulate an atmosphere of trust among stakeholders
amidst a widespread adversarial attitude in the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 959-978
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.828843
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.828843
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:959-978
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Arditi
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Arditi
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Author-Name: Marie Holmdahl
Author-X-Name-First: Marie
Author-X-Name-Last: Holmdahl
Title: Managerial competencies of female and male managers in the Swedish construction industry
Abstract:
The construction industry is one of the most male dominated industries
around the world, not only when it comes to workers, but also as regards
managers. Only 5% of the managers in the Swedish construction industry are
women. The managerial competencies of individuals working as managers in
the Swedish construction industry are researched to get a clearer
understanding of the situation, and to investigate if this lack of balance
between male and female managers has to do with differences in managerial
competence. The management development questionnaire provided by Human
Resource Development Press was sent to 143 managers in the Swedish
construction industry and 112 respondents (44 women and 68 men) assessed
themselves in 20 competencies, resulting in a response rate of 78%. The
Mann-Whitney U test showed that female and male managers possess equal
managerial competencies in 17 of the 20 competencies. Male managers rated
themselves as having better managerial competency than females in two of
the 20 competencies, namely 'resilience' and 'decision making'. Female
managers rated themselves as having better managerial competency than
males in 'sensitivity', which follows the social norm of what is expected
of a woman. It was also found that both groups scored high in decision
making, reflecting traditional virtues of construction managers as
decisive and active. The most important result is not the differences but
the many similarities between women and men working as managers in the
construction industry. Thus, it is concluded that female managers are as
competent as male managers in the Swedish construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 979-990
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.828845
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.828845
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:979-990
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Maryam Sanaei
Author-X-Name-First: Maryam
Author-X-Name-Last: Sanaei
Author-Name: Amy Nicole Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy Nicole
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Author-Name: Paul Chinowsky
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinowsky
Title: The influence of generation on knowledge sharing connections and methods in construction and engineering organizations headquartered in the US
Abstract:
Four generations of employees: Traditionalists, Baby boomers, Generation X
and Generation Y, are now working together in organizations. This
demographic diversity can provide benefits for construction and
engineering organizations, but it can also hinder knowledge sharing across
organizations. Because well-distributed knowledge sharing connections
(KSCs) increase knowledge sharing across the entire organization, thereby
enhancing performance, managers are focusing on how to facilitate these
connections. With four generations working together within organizations,
managers need to ascertain how to span generational boundaries to increase
organizational knowledge sharing and to (1) determine whether generational
attributes of employees impact on knowledge sharing patterns; and (2)
identify the most frequent knowledge sharing (KS) methods that each
generation uses to share knowledge within communities of practice (CoPs)
in construction and engineering companies. To address this, data were
obtained from 734 employees within three CoPs in two construction and
engineering organizations headquartered in the United States. Using a unit
of analysis of KSCs, the generational attributes of CoP members were
mapped to their existing KSCs, along with their preferences for methods to
share knowledge, to analyse the influence of generation on these
connections. Findings show that even though survey respondents rated
generational attributes as not important for maintaining KSCs, the
generational attributes of employees influenced the existence of KSCs.
Moreover, results indicate that there was no difference between
generations in using the most popular KS methods of personal discussion
and e-mail, while significant differences were observed in the use of
instant messaging and meetings for different generations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 991-1004
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.835490
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.835490
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:991-1004
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Amotz Perlman
Author-X-Name-First: Amotz
Author-X-Name-Last: Perlman
Author-Name: Ronen Barak
Author-X-Name-First: Ronen
Author-X-Name-Last: Barak
Title: Construction safety training using immersive virtual reality
Abstract:
Construction workers' ability to identify and assess risks is acquired
through training and experience and is among the key factors that
determine their behaviour and thus their safety. Yet researchers have
questioned the effectiveness of conventional safety training. This
research tested the hypotheses that safety training in a virtual reality
(VR) construction site would be feasible and more effective, in terms of
workers' learning and recall in identifying and assessing construction
safety risks, than would equivalent training using conventional methods.
Sixty-six subjects were provided training in construction safety and their
safety knowledge was tested prior to the training, immediately afterward,
and one month later. Half of the subjects received traditional classroom
training with visual aids; the other half were trained using a 3D
immersive VR power-wall. Significant advantage was found for VR training
for stone cladding work and for cast-in-situ concrete work, but not for
general site safety. VR training was more effective in terms of
maintaining trainees' attention and concentration. Training with VR was
more effective over time, especially in the context of cast-in-situ
concrete works. Given the need for improved training and the advantages of
training using VR, incorporation of VR in construction safety training is
strongly recommended.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1005-1017
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.828844
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.828844
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:1005-1017
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Lind
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Lind
Title: Construction Quality: Do It Right or Pay the Price
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1018-1019
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.805883
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.805883
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:1018-1019
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Naomi Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Title: Construction Project Management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1019-1020
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787488
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787488
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:1019-1020
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ezekiel Chinyio
Author-X-Name-First: Ezekiel
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinyio
Title: Project Management: Systems, Principles, and Applications
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1020-1021
Issue: 9
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.804627
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.804627
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:9:p:1020-1021
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dylan Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Author-Name: Sarah Pink
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Pink
Author-Name: Andy R.J. Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy R.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Building networks to work: an ethnographic study of informal routes into the UK construction industry and pathways for migrant up-skilling
Abstract:
The UK construction industry labour market is characterized by high levels
of self-employment, subcontracting, informality and flexibility. A
corollary of this, and a sign of the increasing globalization of
construction, has been an increasing reliance on migrant labour,
particularly that from the Eastern European Accession states. Yet, little
is known about how migrant workers' experiences within and outside work
shape their work in the construction sector. In this context better
qualitative understandings of the social and communication networks
through which migrant workers gain employment, create routes through the
sector and develop their role/career are needed. We draw on two examples
from a short-term ethnographic study of migrant construction worker
employment experiences and practices in the town of Crewe in Cheshire, UK,
to demonstrate how informal networks intersect with formal elements of the
sector to facilitate both recruitment and up-skilling. Such research
knowledge, we argue, offers new evidence of the importance of attending to
migrant workers' own experiences in the development of more transparent
recruitment processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1025-1037
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.834066
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.834066
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1025-1037
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Scott Fernie
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Fernie
Author-Name: Stuart Tennant
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart
Author-X-Name-Last: Tennant
Title: The non-adoption of supply chain management
Abstract:
Largely taken for granted within the UK construction sector has been a
view that supply chain management theory is robust, relevant and reliable.
As such it has formed a substantial aspect of previous and contemporary
policy and government funded research. Despite this, the general view of
its development and diffusion over the last 15 years within the
construction industry has been problematic. Coincidentally, prevailing
debates within the supply chain management academic community point to the
lack of unified theory, models of diffusion and strong connections to
organization theory. Using Straussian grounded theory, iterations between
data and organization theory provided a fresh perspective on the
development and diffusion of supply chain management in construction. This
inductive research provided contextually rich explanations for development
and diffusion that explicitly connected with and drew upon robust,
relevant and reliable theories of institutions, innovation diffusion,
triads, quasifirms and mechanisms of organizational governance. These
explanations challenge the simplistic assumption that chains and networks
of organizations are holistically managed and controlled by any single
organization or institution in the construction industry. The debate
therefore shifts away from proselytizing supply chain management towards
research that explores the rigour, relevance and reliability of supply
chain management assumptions in construction. The gap between industry
practice and policy is exposed and the question is posed: to what extent
policy and practice do, or should, constitute a recursive relationship.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1038-1058
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.830186
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.830186
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1038-1058
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xueqing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xueqing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yuan Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Bingsheng Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Bingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Yinghua Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Yinghua
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Author-Name: Hui Sun
Author-X-Name-First: Hui
Author-X-Name-Last: Sun
Title: A total factor productivity measure for the construction industry and analysis of its spatial difference: a case study in China
Abstract:
In the context of unbalanced regional economic development in China, there
are large regional differences in the development of the construction
industry. These long-standing and increasing differences not only
influence the total productivity of China's construction industry but also
hinder effective resource distribution. Total factor productivity (TFP) is
a measure of long-term economic growth and a comprehensive industry-level
productivity measure. The objectives are to put forward a set of
systematic methodologies for selecting a productivity index, to develop a
TFP measure for the construction industry and to conduct an analysis of
spatial differences. First, the input and output index system of the
construction industry is established, and China's construction industry
TFP is measured with the DEA-Malmquist index. Second, spatial differences
in the construction industry TFP are analysed in terms of the coefficient
of variation (CV) and using spatial clustering analysis. The results
indicate that China's construction industry TFP has improved steadily.
This improvement has been due mainly to improvements in pure technology
efficiency, technological progress and scale efficiency. In the past five
years, the CV of China's construction industry productivity has generally
been small and has changed only slightly. China's construction industry
TFP for all regions exhibits a ladder-like distribution that is different
from the distribution by economic areas among the central, western and
eastern regions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1059-1071
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.826371
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.826371
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1059-1071
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Vivien Chow
Author-X-Name-First: Vivien
Author-X-Name-Last: Chow
Author-Name: Tracie Harvison
Author-X-Name-First: Tracie
Author-X-Name-Last: Harvison
Title: Inter-agency governance risk in managing hospital responses to extreme weather events in New South Wales, Australia: a facilities management perspective of shared situational awareness
Abstract:
Extreme weather is predicted to become more frequent and severe into the
future. While our understanding of hospital infrastructure vulnerability
to such events has advanced considerably in recent years, current
approaches to healthcare facilities management treat hospitals in
isolation from their surrounding governance infrastructure. However,
recent research indicates that if hospital resilience is to be properly
understood, health infrastructure must be managed holistically, as part of
a much larger governance system of interdependent organizations. The
inter-agency governance risks associated with this system are currently
ignored in the facilities management literature. To explore these risks,
an in-depth case study of 24 agencies in the state of New South Wales,
Australia is presented. The results show that facilities managers are
embedded in a highly complex and dynamic array of governance boundaries
which are largely unresolved and misunderstood. A number of practical
strategies are presented which could be adopted to significantly improve
facilities manager's integration into this system. These include: mapping
hospital dependency on other agencies to build surge capacity; resolving
overlapping operational boundaries with other agencies; proactive risk
reduction for critical external support infrastructure; understanding
potential conflicts with the objectives external agencies in responding to
an extreme weather event.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1072-1082
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.853128
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.853128
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1072-1082
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: Bridges: The Science and Art of the World's Most Inspiring Structures
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1083-1084
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.829238
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.829238
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1083-1084
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Brockmann
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Brockmann
Title: Construction Management: New Directions
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1084-1089
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.824107
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.824107
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1084-1089
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Baldwin
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Baldwin
Title: Managing Environmentally Sustainable Innovation: Insights from the Construction Industry
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1089-1091
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.824108
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.824108
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1089-1091
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Gravitt
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravitt
Title: Construction Safety
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1091-1092
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.829240
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.829240
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1091-1092
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sunila Lobo
Author-X-Name-First: Sunila
Author-X-Name-Last: Lobo
Title: Business Models for Renewable Energy in the Built Environment
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1092-1094
Issue: 10
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.842648
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.842648
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:10:p:1092-1094
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jason Santoso
Author-X-Name-First: Jason
Author-X-Name-Last: Santoso
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Expatriate management in Australian multinational enterprises
Abstract:
Globalization, uncertain domestic markets and increasing competition are
encouraging construction firms to internationalize. Although expatriates
are commonly used by many construction companies to establish and manage
overseas operations, there has been little research into the challenges of
managing these people. Through case studies of five Australian
construction firms and semi-structured interviews with 10 human resource
managers and 36 expatriates, the question of how construction firms
select, deploy, develop and support expatriate managers on overseas
projects is explored. The results show that firms tend to adopt a highly
pragmatic approach to expatriate recruitment and see the process as a
logistical rather than a developmental challenge. Selection processes are
often reactive, ad hoc and intuitive and based more on technical knowledge
than softer behavioural skills and knowledge. Preparation for expatriate
assignments is often outsourced, many expatriates feel unsupported while
overseas, repatriation is poorly managed and overseas assignments are
often seen as a barrier to career progression rather than an investment.
These findings are at odds with contemporary research in international
human resource management and are important because a major determinant of
international project performance is effective human resource management.
The findings also contribute to the design of better expatriate human
resource management systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1098-1109
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.853129
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.853129
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1098-1109
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Measurement and exploration of individual beliefs about the consequences of building information modelling use
Abstract:
Information and communication technology (ICT) is becoming increasingly
important in construction although the rate of adoption is considered slow
and the industry faces specific implementation challenges. Mainstream
information systems research has shown that individuals' beliefs and
expectations of the consequences of ICT use predict subsequent usage. We
describe the development of scales to measure beliefs about the
consequences of building information modelling (BIM) and their use in a
survey of employees of a large construction contracting organization in
the United Kingdom. Scales for performance expectancy, effort expectancy,
social influence, facilitating conditions, compatibility, and attitude
toward using technology were adapted from existing measures. In an
analysis of responses from 762 construction employees the scales showed
acceptable measurement properties. Expectations about the consequences of
BIM use were broadly favourable although there is a need for more data for
comparisons. The structure of the responses showed that expectations that
BIM would enhance job performance were strongly related to expectations
that BIM use was compatible with preferred and existing ways of working.
Results also suggest that social influence is complex and may be
multidimensional.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1110-1127
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.848994
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.848994
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1110-1127
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Che khairil Izam Che Ibrahim
Author-X-Name-First: Che khairil Izam
Author-X-Name-Last: Che Ibrahim
Author-Name: Seosamh B. Costello
Author-X-Name-First: Seosamh B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Costello
Author-Name: Suzanne Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Suzanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Title: Development of a conceptual team integration performance index for alliance projects
Abstract:
Project alliancing, also known as collaborative contracting, is designed
to foster integration practice between multidisciplinary teams involved in
delivering construction projects. If continuous improvement in project
alliances is to be achieved through the use of integrated teams, a means
of assessing how well teams integrate and how that integration changes
over time needs to be introduced. As part of a wider study to develop an
assessment tool for team integration in road construction alliance
projects, key indicators (KIs) are identified for measuring team
integration practice. It is necessary to identify not only the relevant
KIs, but also which indicators are dominant, thereby focusing the
attention of owners and non-owner participants (NOPs) on those that will
have the greatest impact on alliance team integration. Seventeen
experienced road construction alliance practitioners participated in four
rounds of a Delphi questionnaire to identify the KIs. The resulting seven
team integration practice KIs were: team leadership; trust and respect; a
single team focus on project objectives and key result areas (KRAs);
collective understanding; commitment from project alliance board; creation
of single and co-located alliance team; and free flow communication. A
conceptual alliance team integration performance index (ATIPI) was then
developed based on the identified KIs and their relative significance. The
ATIPI takes the form of a linear additive weighting model, consisting of a
measure for each of the identified KIs and a corresponding weighting
coefficient, identified as part of this research. A linear additive
weighting model is considered appropriate based on the lack of correlation
between the KIs, thus suggesting that they can be considered as
independent variables in the ATIPI. The measures for each KI will be
determined as part of future research and will result in a fully working
model for the ATIPI.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1128-1143
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.854399
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.854399
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1128-1143
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: Using events to connect thinking and doing in knowledge management
Abstract:
Knowledge management (KM) is disputed in concept and practice. This is
related to the conventional objectivist view, where knowledge is
independent, generic and passive, thus disconnecting thinking about
practice from doing practice. A practice-based view is presented as being
applicable to construction where practitioners compose action from past
experience using intuition, situation awareness, analogical thinking and
dialogue. Results from Knowledge Event Management demonstrate such
composition in construction events. This view develops the KM proposition
from being 'to think better about practice' to one of 'supporting people
to act better in practice'. Such improvement is facilitated by learning
from events in practice. Events are sensitive points of deep learning,
critical to the recall of learning, and effective in the communication of
learning within social contexts. Events are analogues for future practice
of doing as ideas are for thinking. Improvement in practice requires
changing analogues and using analogues more proficiently when composing
practice. Organizational improvement then takes place through individuals
working collectively both through seeing the consequences of action and
from sharing narratives of events in a critical manner. Objectivist
knowledge can be used as part of this critical challenge. This can be
facilitated and encouraged by active management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1144-1159
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.866260
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.866260
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1144-1159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Title: Managing Project Supply Chains
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1160-1162
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.829239
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.829239
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1160-1162
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew C. Lemer
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lemer
Title: Architectural Theories of the Environment: Posthuman Territory
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1162-1164
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.835055
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.835055
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1162-1164
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Denise Gravitt
Author-X-Name-First: Denise
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravitt
Title: Eco-efficient Construction and Building Materials
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1164-1165
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.833665
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.833665
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1164-1165
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kristian Kreiner
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Kreiner
Title: Organizational Behaviour in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1165-1169
Issue: 11
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.843785
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.843785
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:11:p:1165-1169
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lars Walter
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Walter
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: The role of organizational objects in construction projects: the case of the collapse and restoration of the Tj�rn Bridge
Abstract:
The construction industry immutably produces built environments that
directly influence the everyday lives of human beings. Nevertheless,
materiality, defined as intransient physical matter socially enacted in
the form of artefacts and objects as well as built constructions, is often
overlooked and simply regarded as passive and inert matter. In contrast, a
growing body of literature recognizes the agency of materiality and
examines how materiality and agency are co-produced. When examining a
spectacular event like the collapse of the Tj�rn Bridge on Sweden's west
coast, it is argued that organizational objects are capable of
interpellating various actors, thus enabling informed and adequate action.
The concepts of the organizational object and interpellation are thus
useful analytical terms when examining construction project organization,
helping scholars of the construction industry and practising managers to
rethink the role of materiality as something that both acts and is acted
upon.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1172-1185
Issue: 12
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.868632
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.868632
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:12:p:1172-1185
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: When might a project company break up? The perspective of risk-bearing capacity
Abstract:
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have developed into a mainstream
alternative procurement solution for the provision of public services. The
aim is to explore a crucial but hitherto ignored issue in the study of
PPPs: at what point a project company might break up. The project
company's two-stage break-up in the National Physical Laboratory PFI
project inspired this research in which a formal model is developed to
demonstrate that contract break-up decisions can be plausibly explained
through quasi-rent changes. This finding brings to the foreground the
importance of taking into account risk-bearing capability in the design of
project governance. How to achieve a level of risk-bearing capacity
through the optimal use of financial, organizational and contractual means
is a research area worthy of future exploration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1186-1198
Issue: 12
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.868015
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.868015
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:12:p:1186-1198
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xianbo Zhao
Author-X-Name-First: Xianbo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhao
Author-Name: Bon-Gang Hwang
Author-X-Name-First: Bon-Gang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hwang
Author-Name: Sui Pheng Low
Author-X-Name-First: Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Low
Title: Critical success factors for enterprise risk management in Chinese construction companies
Abstract:
Construction businesses are risky ventures and enterprise risk management
(ERM) has been advocated in construction companies. To ensure ERM success
and the subsequent benefits, it is necessary to understand the key
activities of ERM. The objectives are to identify the critical success
factors (CSFs) for ERM and analyse the interrelationships among these CSFs
in Chinese construction companies (CCCs). To achieve this objective, 16
CSFs were identified through a comprehensive literature review and 89
completed survey questionnaires were received. The results of the analysis
show that the three most important CSFs are 'commitment of the board and
senior management', 'risk identification, analysis and response' and
'objective setting'. Additionally, the three underlying CSF groupings are
(1) execution and integration; (2) communication and understanding; and
(3) commitment and involvement of top management. The commitment and
involvement of top management positively contributed to the communication
and understanding as well as the execution and integration of ERM, while
the communication and understanding facilitated the execution and
integration of ERM. The proposed framework indicating the key ERM
practices and the inter-grouping relationships provides an in-depth
understanding of ERM in CCCs, compared with the existing not so relevant
ERM frameworks in various other industries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1199-1214
Issue: 12
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.867521
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.867521
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:12:p:1199-1214
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ole Jonny Klakegg
Author-X-Name-First: Ole Jonny
Author-X-Name-Last: Klakegg
Title: Modern Construction Management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1215-1217
Issue: 12
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.867519
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.867519
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:12:p:1215-1217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Gruneberg
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gruneberg
Title: Construction Contract Preparation and Management: From Concept to Completion
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1217-1219
Issue: 12
Volume: 31
Year: 2013
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.867520
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.867520
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:31:y:2013:i:12:p:1217-1219
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Brian Atkin
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkin
Title: Industrialized building
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-6
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.882005
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.882005
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:1-6
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Ågren
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Ågren
Author-Name: Robert D. Wing
Author-X-Name-First: Robert D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wing
Title: Five moments in the history of industrialized building
Abstract:
Industrialized building has drawn in ideas from many pioneering
researchers during its decades of development; in this brief
recapitulation we present some observations on selected moments in the
history that have significantly shaped the approach to building
construction. The first formative movement identified is prefabrication,
as used by Joseph Paxton during construction of the Crystal Palace.
Prefabrication inspired Frank Lloyd Wright's American System Built Homes,
and enabled the development of Le Corbusier's mass production ideas in the
Modern Frug�s Quarter project. Early forerunners saw connections with the
automotive industry; Le Corbusier developed a house called Citrohan and
Buckminster Fuller wanted to create 'houses like Fords'. From
prefabrication followed the concept of building in sub-assemblies, as
showcased by Walter Gropius in his T�rten estate; Konrad Wachsmann took
this notion further into modularization and mass production with the
creation of factory-produced panel and space frame systems. At much the
same time Buckminster Fuller proposed the modular Dymaxion house, which
included a functioning bathroom delivered in four pieces. In 1962 John
Habraken presented ideas which led to what are now called open systems,
suggesting standardized dimensions in the modularization in order to
enable a wide array of choices for end-users. Even today not all the
expectations of industrialized building have been realized, and it is
instructive to look back at the origins of some of the fundamental
concepts which form the backbone of this subject.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 7-15
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.825374
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.825374
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:7-15
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tomonari Yashiro
Author-X-Name-First: Tomonari
Author-X-Name-Last: Yashiro
Title: Conceptual framework of the evolution and transformation of the idea of the industrialization of building in Japan
Abstract:
Previous studies speculate on the implications of the industrialization of
building (IB); however, there is no clear consensus on its definition. The
implications of IB are assumed to be differentiated by its social,
economic, and technological contexts. A conceptual framework is proposed
to describe the implications through issues embodied in the idea of IB.
Categories of issues within the framework are: prerequisites related to
introducing innovative methods, manufacturing technologies, production
technologies, functionality and life cycle management, organizational
management, supply chain maturity, purpose and motivation, and
constraints. How effectively the conceptual framework describes the
evolution and transformation of the idea of IB is examined using case
studies in Japan. Following on from previous research, six types of idea
of IB are specified. These are: IB embodied in prefabricated houses in the
1940s, mass construction-oriented IB, component-based IB, mass
customization-oriented IB, platform-oriented IB and service
providing-oriented IB. A conceptual framework is offered that explains
these types of idea of IB. The relevance and discontinuity of issues
associated with each type of idea of IB are discussed. Similarities and
differences in descriptions provided by the framework effectively
illustrate the process of the evolution and transformation of the idea of
IB in Japan. It is concluded that the proposed conceptual framework is an
effective method for describing the idea of IB in specific contexts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 16-39
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.864779
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.864779
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:16-39
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiaolin Zhai
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaolin
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhai
Author-Name: Richard Reed
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Reed
Author-Name: Anthony Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: Factors impeding the offsite production of housing construction in China: an investigation of current practice
Abstract:
The promotion of offsite production is a possible future strategic
direction for the construction industry as it provides economic,
environmental and social benefits. However, in China, the uptake of
offsite production, particularly in the housing sector, is relatively low
and few studies have identified and examined the reasons behind this
trend. This research gap is addressed and factors that inhibit the wider
use of offsite production in China's housing construction industry are
investigated. A questionnaire survey was carried out, examining the views
of 110 construction professionals in China including developers,
designers, contractors, manufacturers and suppliers. Factor analysis of 21
separate variables was undertaken which extracted six principal factors,
namely: 'constructability implementation', 'social climate and attitudes',
'architectural performance', 'costing', 'supply chain' and 'preparatory
stage'. The findings identify both barriers and challenges to increasing
the uptake of offsite production in China. This provides a rare insight
about the housing construction industry in China with possible
implications for other developing countries that are seeking to identify
and overcome barriers to the wider uptake of offsite production.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 40-52
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.787491
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.787491
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:40-52
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henric Jonsson
Author-X-Name-First: Henric
Author-X-Name-Last: Jonsson
Author-Name: Martin Rudberg
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Rudberg
Title: Classification of production systems for industrialized building: a production strategy perspective
Abstract:
The purpose is to develop a matrix for classifying production systems for
construction with various degrees of industrialization. Previous attempts
to classify industrialized production systems for construction focus on
dimensions such as the design process, the product technology, or the
supply chain structure, but none of them acknowledge the importance of how
orders are actually won in the market and that different market segments
have different requirements. Using production strategy theory as a base, a
matrix is developed linking market requirements, via the product offering,
to the design of the production system. The matrix positions typical
production systems based on their respective degrees of product
standardization and volumes relative to the degree of offsite production.
Similar to production systems in manufacturing, production systems for
construction also deliver manufacturing outputs at different levels,
indicating that the choice of production system will affect the
competitiveness of the company. The applicability of the matrix is
exemplified through three case illustrations of concepts for
industrialized building, and these show that the matrix can be used to
analyse the production systems' relative strengths and weaknesses. The
matrix can also be used as a guide when developing new, or adjusting
existing, production systems for industrialized building so that they will
match market requirements and offer competitiveness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 53-69
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.812226
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.812226
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:53-69
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gustav Jansson
Author-X-Name-First: Gustav
Author-X-Name-Last: Jansson
Author-Name: Helena Johnsson
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnsson
Author-Name: Dan Engstr�m
Author-X-Name-First: Dan
Author-X-Name-Last: Engstr�m
Title: Platform use in systems building
Abstract:
The practice of reusing processes and technical solutions leads to the
formation of product platforms in house building. Product platforms
originate from industries employing a make-to-order production strategy,
e.g. the automotive industry. To test how the product platform concept is
useful in engineer-to-order production strategies, a case study at two
Swedish house-builders was made. Key factors that affect platform use in
systems buildings were sought. The smaller company operates a supplier-led
platform focusing on commonalities in process knowledge. There is less
definition of the product itself to allow for distinctiveness in the
product offer. The larger company has a decentralized business and
operates a client-driven platform with fragmented standardization. Focus
is put on creating commonality through defining the product and handling
distinctiveness through an iterative design procedure. Product families
were not in use at the case study companies. The companies transform
standardized platform solutions into project uniqueness by using support
methods. Four platform support methods emerged from the case studies:
design planning, collaborative design, design optimization, and
requirements iteration. The balance between commonality and
distinctiveness in the platform is important to attend to in each
house-building project. The engineer-to-order production strategy hinders
the implementation of a fully parameterized platform. The product platform
concept is therefore expanded with support methods to handle
distinctiveness, i.e. project uniqueness. The product platform assets:
components, processes, relationships and knowledge, are present also in
platforms used in systems building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 70-82
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.793376
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.793376
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:70-82
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Larsson
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsson
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Thomas Olofsson
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Olofsson
Author-Name: Peter Simonsson
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Simonsson
Title: Industrialized construction in the Swedish infrastructure sector: core elements and barriers
Abstract:
Improving productivity and innovation is a central challenge in all
industries, but particularly in construction where improvements have been
slow. To meet this challenge, a recent investigation into the actions of
Swedish government clients has recognized needs to improve planning during
project procurement phases, increase numbers of turnkey contracts and
raise industrialization of the sector. In response, the Swedish
Transportation Administration has launched a research and innovation
programme to foster an industrial approach and identify ways to increase
the standardization of products and processes. However, increasing
industrialization has been difficult to achieve in the project-based
construction industry except in the process-based housing sector. Further,
there has been little research on the concept of industrialized
infrastructure construction and barriers to its implementation. Opinions
and attitudes of clients, consultants and contractors in the
infrastructure sector were investigated in relation to the core elements
of industrialized construction, and the barriers hindering its
development. Opportunities and obstacles related to both product and
process standardization for continuous improvements and the relationships
between clients and contractors are revealed. Hence, the implementation of
industrialized construction requires tightly focused governance at the
outset of projects and profound changes to established attitudes, norms
and regulations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 83-96
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.833666
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.833666
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:83-96
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Author-Name: Henrik Szentes
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Szentes
Author-Name: Kristian Widén
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Widén
Title: Managing short-term efficiency and long-term development through industrialized construction
Abstract:
There is a strong need for a productive and innovative infrastructure
sector because of its monetary value and importance for the development of
a sustainable society. An increased level of industrialization is often
proposed as a way to improve efficiency and productivity in construction
projects. In prior literature on industrialized construction, there are
however neither many studies addressing more long-term aspects of
innovation and sustainability nor studies within the infrastructure
context. Organizational theory suggests that firms need to be ambidextrous
and focus on both long-term exploration of new knowledge and technologies
and short-term exploitation of current knowledge and technologies, in
order to achieve sustainable development. Therefore, an investigation of
how both short-term exploitative performance objectives and long-term
explorative development can be addressed when implementing industrialized
construction in infrastructure projects was conducted. A case study
consisting of four infrastructure projects shows that the main drivers for
increased industrialization are of an exploitative nature, focusing on
cost savings and increased productivity through more efficient processes.
The main barriers to increased industrialization are however related to
both explorative and exploitative activities. Hence, by managing the
identified barriers and explicitly addressing both exploitation and
exploration, industrialized construction can improve both short-term
efficiency and long-term innovation and sustainability.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-108
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.814920
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.814920
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:97-108
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Henrik Meiling
Author-X-Name-First: John Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Meiling
Author-Name: Marcus Sandberg
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Sandberg
Author-Name: Helena Johnsson
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Johnsson
Title: A study of a plan-do-check-act method used in less industrialized activities: two cases from industrialized housebuilding
Abstract:
In construction projects, a large number of deviations are usually found
during inspections and adjusted in a reactive manner. For projects to
become proactive, root causes need to be identified and eliminated as a
part of a process of continuous improvement (CI). Plan-do-check-act (PDCA)
methods are part of CI and have been used with success within the
manufacturing industry for decades. Research studies of PDCA in
construction are less common, which could be explained by the past
dominance of the project-based nature of construction compared to the
process-based nature of manufacture. Industrialized construction, however,
has changed this picture somewhat, and it is of interest to find out how
well it works for less industrialized activities in construction. A PDCA
method was tested in two cases selected from one medium-sized Swedish
industrialized housebuilder, which uses a building system based on offsite
manufactured modules. Empirical results are based on systematic data
gathered through interviews and participant observations. Results from the
two cases show that the PDCA method worked even when processes were
divided into industrialized parts within a factory and non-industrial
parts at the construction site although this might lead to temporary
corrective actions rather than permanent process actions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-125
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.812227
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.812227
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:109-125
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Erika Hedgren
Author-X-Name-First: Erika
Author-X-Name-Last: Hedgren
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Title: The impact of clients' decision-making on their adoption of industrialized building
Abstract:
Previous research has shown that client organizations' decision-making
about new-build creates individual-level and organizational-level barriers
to the adoption of Swedish industrialized building (IB). However, it has
been proposed that clients may overcome barriers on both levels by
allowing multiple meanings and conflicting interpretations to surface and
interact with their decision-making. The aim is to test this proposition.
Based on the theoretical fields of decision-making and organizational
information processing, a framework for analysis has been developed. In
the framework, three decision-making approaches are operationalized:
rational, judgments and managing multiple meanings. Data were collected
using in-depth interviews with key decision-makers from four Swedish
professional clients differing on when and if they adopted IB: one
early-adopter, two late-adopters and one non-adopter. The empirical
findings support the proposition and show a relationship between how
clients manage multiple meanings in their decision-making and their
adoption of IB. The research adds to the understanding of how clients may
overcome barriers to the adoption of IB on both individual and
organizational levels. Moreover, it increases understanding about how
clients might better cope with radical changes and innovations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 126-145
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.833340
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.833340
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:126-145
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Louise Bildsten
Author-X-Name-First: Louise
Author-X-Name-Last: Bildsten
Title: Buyer-supplier relationships in industrialized building
Abstract:
Close collaboration is considered important; but is close collaboration
for all purchases necessary to create
value-in-production? In construction as well as in other
industries, companies purchase a variety of items that require different
amounts of attention to the relationship with suppliers. Buyer-supplier
relationships are investigated in relation to how they bring
value-in-production in the industrialized building sector. An adaptation
of the Kraljic model is applied to the context of industrialized
housebuilding in Sweden. Different relationships and different purchased
items are classified with the aim of revealing patterns that may prove
useful when determining purchasing strategies intended to create
value-in-production. Purchasing strategies were studied through data
collection at four industrialized housebuilders. Analysis of these
strategies suggests that the total product offer from suppliers in terms
of customization, logistics and standardization plays an important role in
the choice of suppliers in order to satisfy the requirement for efficient
production. Long-term relationships enable the development of a specific
way of working that adds value-in-production. A new purchasing portfolio
model for determining the effectiveness of purchasing strategies on the
production process is thus presented, where products are classified
according to value-in-production.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 146-159
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.812228
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.812228
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:146-159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Schmidt
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Schmidt
Author-Name: Kasper Sanchez Vibaek
Author-X-Name-First: Kasper Sanchez
Author-X-Name-Last: Vibaek
Author-Name: Simon Austin
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Austin
Title: Evaluating the adaptability of an industrialized building using dependency structure matrices
Abstract:
A relatively neglected aspect of sustainable development is the creation
of an enduring built environment that can be adapted to suit changing
circumstances. This presents a significant challenge: how to evaluate a
building's adaptability. The premise is introduced that adaptability is
enhanced through the use of analytical tools which can provide better
control of the building's system architecture that enables easier, and
less costly, user-driven adaptations. More specifically it investigates
what a dependency structure matrix (DSM), a square (N × N)
matrix-based model that visualizes the relationships between elements
within a system, can reveal about the capacity for an industrialized
building to accommodate change, through clustering and impact analyses.
Clustering analysis attempts to assess the system architecture on
generic principles of change by organizing it into
discrete modules, while the impact analysis examines propagation in
30 change scenarios by tracing dependencies within the
DSM. Feasibility assessments of the scenarios are compared with the
knowledge of a system expert. The results indicate the DSM analysis
provided insights beyond the intuition of the system expert regarding
change propagation, while the system expert's knowledge of component
characteristics and overall composition of the building proved beyond the
capacity of the DSM. Additional conclusions are drawn from the case study
regarding DSM construction and the analytical process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 160-182
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.847274
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.847274
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:160-182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Riduan Yunus
Author-X-Name-First: Riduan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yunus
Author-Name: Jay Yang
Author-X-Name-First: Jay
Author-X-Name-Last: Yang
Title: Improving ecological performance of industrialized building systems in Malaysia
Abstract:
For construction stakeholders to fully embrace sustainability, its
long-term benefits and associated risks need to be identified through
holistic approaches. Consensus among key stakeholders is very important to
the improvement of the ecological performance of industrialized building
systems (IBS), a building construction method gaining momentum in
Malaysia. A questionnaire survey examines the relative significance of 16
potentially important sustainability factors for IBS applications. To
present possible solutions, semi-structured interviews solicit views from
experienced IBS practitioners, representing the professions involved.
Three most critical factors agreed by key stakeholders are
material consumption, waste generation
and waste disposal. Using SWOT analysis, the positive and
negative aspects of these factors are investigated, with action plans
formulated for IBS design practitioners. The SWOT analysis based
guidelines have the potential to become part of IBS design briefing
documents against which sustainability solutions are contemplated,
selected and implemented. Existing knowledge on ecological performance
issues is extended by considering the unique characteristics of IBS and
identifying not only the benefits, but also the potential risks and
challenges of pursuing sustainability. This is largely missing in previous
research efforts. Findings to date focus on providing much-needed
assistance to IBS designers, who are at the forefront of decision-making
with a significant level of project influence. Ongoing work will be
directed towards other project development phases and consider the
inherent linkage between design decisions and subsequent sustainability
deliverables in the project life cycle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-195
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.825373
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.825373
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:183-195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fredrik Wikberg
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Wikberg
Author-Name: Thomas Olofsson
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Olofsson
Author-Name: Anders Ekholm
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Ekholm
Title: Design configuration with architectural objects: linking customer requirements with system capabilities in industrialized house-building platforms
Abstract:
There are two main routes for customers of industrialized house building
to follow: either rigid platforms offering preconfigured products, often
called 'type houses', or more flexible platforms open to customization.
The problem in customization is to link customer requirements with system
opportunities. In axiomatic design processes, this problem is understood
as the transformation of customer requirements in the architectural view
into design parameters that are supported by the system. A new method is
proposed that allows requirements and constraints of an industrialized
building platform to be handled fully in the architectural view through
configuration with so-called architectural objects. It is based upon
established theories and complies with the rationale of separating
platform development from product customization. An experimental study,
using standard building information modelling software, shows that a
hierarchical structure of architectural objects can support both the
development, as well as the configuration process, of the platform.
Modularization in the architectural view is believed to be an important
first step to capturing user requirements in the development of platforms
for a specific market segment. It is also anticipated that if these
requirements can be conceptualized as architectural objects the
capabilities in different configurator solutions can be made more
transparent to the customer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 196-207
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.864780
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.864780
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:196-207
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Staffan Brege
Author-X-Name-First: Staffan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brege
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Author-Name: Tomas Nord
Author-X-Name-First: Tomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Nord
Title: Business models in industrialized building of multi-storey houses
Abstract:
The business model construct has been widely used during the last decade,
partly because of its potential to provide a holistic view of how
companies do business. A test of how prefabrication could form the basis
of a construction firm's business model can lead to an understanding of
the potential for the competitiveness and profitability of industrialized
building. The aim is to adapt a general business model construct and use
it to empirically identify the most frequently used and the most viable
business model. The theoretical perspective is employed to examine how a
company does business and which activities and resources are mobilized
through the distinction between strategic and operational effectiveness.
The multiple case studies include five major Swedish companies that
produce prefabricated timber building systems and the analysis is grounded
in pattern-finding. The business model construct includes: market
position, offering, and operational platform. The result indicates five
business model elements: prefabrication mode, role in the building
process, end-user segments, system augmentation and complementary
resources. Applying this construct to the five case companies revealed
that one out of seven models was found to be viable in terms of both
'market share' and decision-makers' opinions. One important conclusion is
to take the prefabrication mode as the starting point for business model
design and then adapt the other elements to a good fit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 208-226
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.840734
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.840734
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:1-2:p:208-226
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Beverley M. Lloyd-walker
Author-X-Name-First: Beverley M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lloyd-walker
Author-Name: Anthony John Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony John
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Author-Name: Derek H.T. Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek H.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: Enabling construction innovation: the role of a no-blame culture as a collaboration behavioural driver in project alliances
Abstract:
A no-blame culture is widely accepted as a collaboration driver yet we see
surprisingly scant literature on the theoretical underpinnings for the
construction and project management context. A no-blame culture in project
alliances, as conducted in Australasia, promotes innovative thinking in
action. Innovation is dependent upon collaboration and true collaboration
is inextricably linked with behavioural drivers. Foremost of these is a
culture of openness and willingness to share the pain and gain from
experimentation, one that requires that collaborators be protected from
the threat of being blamed and held accountable for experimental failure.
The Australasian project alliance procurement form has a unique 'no-blame'
behavioural contract clause that can result in the type of breakthrough
thinking crucial in developing a collaborative culture where innovation
can evolve through a process of trial and error.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-245
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.892629
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.892629
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:229-245
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thayaparan Gajendran
Author-X-Name-First: Thayaparan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gajendran
Author-Name: Graham Brewer
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Brewer
Author-Name: Siegfried Gudergan
Author-X-Name-First: Siegfried
Author-X-Name-Last: Gudergan
Author-Name: Shankar Sankaran
Author-X-Name-First: Shankar
Author-X-Name-Last: Sankaran
Title: Deconstructing dynamic capabilities: the role of cognitive and organizational routines in the innovation process
Abstract:
A better understanding of innovation processes might lead to productivity
improvements. By focusing on a specific, economically relevant sector
(construction) and on a specific type of firm (small to medium-sized
enterprises, SMEs), the dynamic capabilities framework is extended by
clarifying the roles of cognitive and organizational routines in
organizational innovation processes. Insights generated from an in-depth
case study of a medium-sized construction firm reveal that dynamic
capabilities might diminish the relevance of an explicit innovation focus,
because such capabilities have the potential to trigger emergent,
incremental innovations. Accordingly, for construction SMEs, a
development, rather than research, mode of innovation appears relatively
more critical, as manifested in conscious cognitive routines and
functional/integrative organizational routines.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 246-261
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.845306
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.845306
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:246-261
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stewart Clegg
Author-X-Name-First: Stewart
Author-X-Name-Last: Clegg
Author-Name: Kristian Kreiner
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Kreiner
Title: Fixing concrete: inquiries, responsibility, power and innovation
Abstract:
When public matters go spectacularly wrong an official inquiry often
ensues. Such an inquiry, conducted by legal and professional personnel, is
an opportunity for learning that carries an obligation to attribute
responsibility. The post hoc fixing of responsibility may aid or hinder
learning. Learning relates to innovation in products and organizational
processes but also new mental models and realty constructions. Accidents
are opportunities for such learning and innovation. The philosophical
concept of responsibility is first investigated, drawing on Aristotle,
before analysis of a major accident that occurred on a prestigious Danish
project when fixing concrete beams and its aftermath in an official
inquiry. The investigation shows how the accident constituted a watershed,
substituting a logic of performativity with a logic of compliance made
possible by re-invoking an old model of reality implicitly experimented
with on site. Thus, while accidents offer opportunities for innovation,
this case shows that they also harbour an obligation to nullify informal
and incremental innovations in understanding construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 262-278
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.848996
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.848996
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:262-278
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sa�d Boukendour
Author-X-Name-First: Sa�d
Author-X-Name-Last: Boukendour
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Title: Collaborative incentive contracts: stimulating competitive behaviour without competition
Abstract:
One of the major and recurring problems in designing cost incentive
contracts is related to setting target cost and a risk-sharing ratio. With
the standard sharing formula, contractors or alliance partners are
incentivized to artificially inflate their target cost in order to
maximize profit and minimize risk. Knowing that, owners attempt to
pressure contractors by using various mechanisms, which are time-consuming
and may jeopardize collaborative relationships afterwards. A fair
risk-sharing formula is suggested that incentivizes the contractors or
alliance partners to truthfully submit their target cost. The main
tangible benefit is in removing suspicion and fostering trust and
collaborative relationships between the contracting parties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 279-289
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.875215
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.875215
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:279-289
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Philip J. Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Philip J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Author-Name: Stephen Emmitt
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Emmitt
Author-Name: Steven K. Firth
Author-X-Name-First: Steven K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Firth
Title: Challenges for capturing and assessing initial embodied energy: a contractor's perspective
Abstract:
Initial embodied energy includes energy use during material,
transportation, and construction life cycle phases up to project practical
completion. Contractors have an important role to play in reducing initial
embodied energy levels due to their significant involvement in
preconstruction and onsite construction activities. Following an extensive
literature review a comprehensive framework was designed to highlight the
significance of initial embodied energy levels relative to specific
construction packages, activities and subcontractors. This framework was
then applied to a new UK industrial warehouse project using a case study
approach. Capturing information from a live project during the entire
construction phase helped highlight the practical challenges inherent when
capturing and assessing initial embodied energy levels. A series of
contractor current practices was reviewed to determine their compliance
with the framework requirements. The findings revealed that the ground and
upper floor, external slab and frame were the most significant
construction packages in terms of embodied impacts. Many challenges
embedded within the contractor's current practices in terms of data
detail, legibility, and terminology were also revealed. The framework
provides a practical approach for initial embodied energy assessment which
can readily be adopted by contractors to help highlight opportunities to
increase efficiency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 290-308
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.884280
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.884280
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:290-308
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: The Handbook of Organizational Economics
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 309-313
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.872281
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.872281
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:309-313
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Allan
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Allan
Title: Sustainability and the Design of Transport Interchanges
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 313-319
Issue: 3
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.877149
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.877149
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:3:p:313-319
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arshad Ali Javed
Author-X-Name-First: Arshad Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Javed
Author-Name: Patrick T.I. Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick T.I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Albert P.C. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert P.C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Change negotiation in public-private partnership projects through output specifications: an experimental approach based on game theory
Abstract:
Public-private partnership (PPP) projects specify outputs rather than
inputs. While changes are inevitable over long concession periods, output
specifications should facilitate the negotiation of foreseeable changes.
An experimental approach based on game theory was adopted to evaluate the
effectiveness of different strategies for negotiating changes. A
multi-stage bargaining process using the 'z-Tree' software was designed to
simulate four change scenarios with three output specification versions
encompassing different change management strategies in a computer
laboratory. Under each change scenario, pairs of public and private
participants negotiated on the sharing of additional costs incurred by
changes in the life cycles of fictitious PPP projects based on the
different versions of output specification. The time taken to reach
settlement or negotiation breakdown was recorded together with the
cost-sharing pattern, with feedback collected from the participants on the
effectiveness of the specification strategies immediately after the
experiment. It was found that a detailed and clear output specification
incorporating a cost-sharing framework facilitates change negotiations.
Although the first-mover advantage was recorded, the gaps were narrowed in
the multi-stage bargains. A similar controlled experiment was conducted
with university students for comparison. Findings should lead to
improvements in output specifications for change negotiation of PPP
projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 323-348
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.895846
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.895846
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:323-348
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Athena Roumboutsos
Author-X-Name-First: Athena
Author-X-Name-Last: Roumboutsos
Author-Name: St�phane Saussier
Author-X-Name-First: St�phane
Author-X-Name-Last: Saussier
Title: Public-private partnerships and investments in innovation: the influence of the contractual arrangement
Abstract:
Public-private partnership (PPP) policy strategies emphasize the ability
of PPPs to foster innovation. Evidence reported in literature supports
less the inherent quality of PPPs for innovation and more the importance
of contributing factors. The contractual agreement is the setting of these
factors. In this context, an analytical model based on behavioural
economics is presented, with boundary conditions reflecting various
contractual configurations. The analysis indicates why, from a purely
economic point of view, the private party in a PPP arrangement has an
incentive to invest in low risk incremental innovations, which impact on,
and positively effect, cost savings during construction and operation. It
is also identified that further innovations are hampered by the ability to
produce verifiable improvements correlated to performance. Findings
contribute to the subject of public procurement for innovation in PPPs and
support public authorities regarding the rationale, potential and
necessary framework conditions for the use of public procurement as an
innovation policy tool.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 349-361
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.895849
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.895849
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:349-361
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Yvette Allen
Author-X-Name-First: Yvette
Author-X-Name-Last: Allen
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Leickness Simbayi
Author-X-Name-First: Leickness
Author-X-Name-Last: Simbayi
Title: Guidelines for effective workplace HIV/AIDS intervention management by construction firms
Abstract:
Construction firms have an important role in combating HIV/AIDS in the
South African construction industry. The HIV/AIDS intervention management
practices of 12 construction firms in Cape Town are examined through
interviews and documents. From thematic analysis, five themes emerged:
construction firms' perceptions of HIV/AIDS as a threat to the firm;
construction firm interventions; barriers to the success of interventions;
the role of service providers; and state-led interventions. A tension
exists in managing HIV/AIDS interventions as firms are concerned with
productivity and profit maximization, but are becoming more engaged with
corporate social responsibility and a higher duty of care towards
employees. Interventions should extend beyond awareness and prevention
campaigns to include testing and treatment programmes. A guideline
checklist for such interventions is proposed. Partnering with specialized
service providers is recommended, as well as engaging closely with public
sector services. Firms successfully managing their HIV/AIDS response
should share their experience with others struggling to respond. Employee
issues of stigma and reluctance to disclose need to be addressed.
Attention should be paid to the employment structure of the construction
industry and to the needs of the informal sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 362-381
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.883080
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.883080
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:362-381
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ruqaya Al-Sabah
Author-X-Name-First: Ruqaya
Author-X-Name-Last: Al-Sabah
Author-Name: Carol C. Menassa
Author-X-Name-First: Carol C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Menassa
Author-Name: Awad Hanna
Author-X-Name-First: Awad
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanna
Title: Evaluating impact of construction risks in the Arabian Gulf Region from perspective of multinational architecture, engineering and construction firms
Abstract:
Although multinational firms use risk mitigation measures when venturing
into new international markets, there has been little research into
identifying and evaluating the impact of these risks on project and
multinational firm performance in the Arabian Gulf Region (AGR). Risks
encountered in the AGR are identified through a data collection process
from multinational architecture, engineering and construction (AEC)
companies with work experience in the AGR. The impact of these risks on
four performance metrics (i.e. project cost, schedule and performance; and
company performance) is then evaluated using relative importance index
(RII), significance score (SS) and principal component analysis (PCA) for
validation. The results indicate that multinational firms are potentially
exposed to a total of 27 external risks and 47 internal risks. Of the 27
external risks, war threat, political instability, price inflation,
resources availability and quality, authorities and regulations
requirements, and inclement climate have the most significant impact on
the four performance metrics. Of the 47 internal risks, defective late
design documents, constructive changes and insufficient scope definition
have the most significant impact on the four performance metrics. These
findings can guide multinational AEC firms in the AGR in establishing
effective risk mitigation plans.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 382-402
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.884281
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.884281
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:382-402
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nunzia Carbonara
Author-X-Name-First: Nunzia
Author-X-Name-Last: Carbonara
Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Author-Name: Roberta Pellegrino
Author-X-Name-First: Roberta
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellegrino
Title: Revenue guarantee in public-private partnerships: a fair risk allocation model
Abstract:
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are adopted throughout the world for
delivering public infrastructure. Despite the attractiveness of the PPP
structure, its implementation has not been without trouble due to multiple
uncertainties embedded with PPP projects. Private investors often require
some mitigation of these risks through government support. One of the most
common forms of government support is minimum revenue guarantee (MRG). A
real option-based model is developed that uses a new mechanism for setting
the revenue guarantee level secured by the government, which balances the
private sector's profitability needs and the public sector's fiscal
management interests and uses the concept of fairness for structuring
MRGs. The model uses Monte Carlo simulation to take into account the
uncertainty. The model is applied to the projected 1 kilometre long
'Camionale di Bari' toll road that will link the port of Bari (located in
Puglia, Southern Italy) with the existing road network without affecting
the urban traffic. It was found that government support is often needed to
make the project attractive to private investors and that the developed
model can be, for both public and private sectors, a valid tool for
defining the fair value of the minimum amount of revenue
secured by the government.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 403-415
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.906638
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.906638
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:403-415
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Pichura
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Pichura
Title: Project Management for Facility Constructions: A Guide for Engineers and Architects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 416-416
Issue: 4
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.897735
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.897735
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:4:p:416-416
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mattias Jacobsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mattias
Author-X-Name-Last: Jacobsson
Author-Name: Philip Roth
Author-X-Name-First: Philip
Author-X-Name-Last: Roth
Title: Towards a shift in mindset: partnering projects as engagement platforms
Abstract:
The last decade has seen shifts in both practice and research regarding
client-supplier relationships. Cooperative project client-supplier
relationships have become increasingly common, and have spurred a stream
of vivid research on for example alliances and partnering. Despite
increased attention, an insufficient understanding of the relationship
dimension is identified, described as a 'black box'. Here it is suggested
that a key to unlock this 'black box' is to focus on the everyday practice
and the role of the mindset of involved actors throughout the project. We
argue that running partnering projects involves more deeply rooted changes
than previously recognized. Changes relate to the mindset among involved
actors, where service (instead of merely products or production) becomes
the core denominator. First we aim to illustrate that a partnering
project, if well functioning, can be understood as an engagement platform,
and second we aim to discuss the consequences if this is acknowledged in
practice. The case, a successful Swedish partnering project, is explored
from a service-dominant logic perspective and it is suggested that
successful partnering projects are to be defined as engagement platforms.
A refined categorization of the components of partnering is provided and
the implications of a shift in mindset discussed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 419-432
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.895847
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.895847
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:419-432
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tarek Hegazy
Author-X-Name-First: Tarek
Author-X-Name-Last: Hegazy
Author-Name: Dina A. Saad
Author-X-Name-First: Dina A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Saad
Title: A microeconomic perspective on infrastructure rehabilitation
Abstract:
Allocating limited capital-renewal (rehabilitation) funds among a large
number of competing infrastructure assets has been a tremendous challenge
for municipalities and public agencies. However, in the literature, there
have been only limited efforts to provide economic approaches that can
optimize, test, and justify fund-allocation decisions. In an effort to
introduce such mechanisms, theories from microeconomics that maximize the
return (utility) from consumer spending on multiple goods were adopted. To
test the applicability of microeconomic concepts in the infrastructure
fund-allocation problem, two case studies related to pavement sections and
building components were carried out. An advanced mathematical
optimization model was first developed and applied to the case studies to
obtain optimum fund-allocation decisions. Then, the optimum decisions were
analysed with respect to consumer theory to test the applicability of this
theory in the fund-allocation problem. The analysis proved that the tested
microeconomic approach applies perfectly to the infrastructure domain and
that optimum decisions are achieved at an economic balance/equilibrium
among the different expenditure categories. In essence, the wealth of
well-established consumer theory has been introduced for its potential
adoption in the infrastructure domain to improve and better justify
infrastructure rehabilitation decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-445
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.879193
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.879193
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:433-445
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Michael Behm
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Behm
Author-Name: Tracy Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Tracy
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Title: Construction accident causality: learning from different countries and differing consequences
Abstract:
Fundamental questions remain about the practical value and
generalizability of accident causation frameworks for explaining
construction accidents. Relevant causality literature is reviewed; three
research projects compared and implications of accident causation theories
for accident investigation and analysis discussed, particularly for
accidents with differing consequences and in different national contexts.
The effectiveness of the UK accident causality framework ConAC
(Construction Accident Causality) in identifying occupational accident
causes in different industry contexts (Australia and the USA) is
evaluated; and the implications of the choice of theoretical framework in
the analysis of construction accident causation considered. The ConAC
framework was developed from a real-time analysis of 100 relatively minor
construction accidents. The Australian study used this framework to
analyse the National Coroners reports of 258 construction fatalities and
the USA study used it to develop research instruments for interviews
regarding 27 construction accidents of varying consequences. The results
suggest that the ConAC framework is helpful for the analysis of the causes
of accidents with outcomes of differing severity. The studies also suggest
that it has international applicability despite differing occupational
health and safety legislative contexts and industrial arrangements.
Furthermore, significant learning can be obtained from considering
underlying causes of accidents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 446-459
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.907498
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.907498
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:446-459
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Terence Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Terence
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Keith Gale
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Gale
Title: Highway maintenance: impact of framework agreements upon project financial performance
Abstract:
Use of frameworks is recognized by the UK Industrial Strategy:
Government and Industry in Partnership as an innovative
procurement method that may be used to deliver cost savings. Support for
potential efficiencies from use of frameworks by practitioners is, at
best, mixed. A single case study was conducted to investigate the
financial performance of frameworks for highway maintenance projects
within the context of a major county council. Results from independent
samples t-tests of 60 framework and 60 traditional discrete projects
verified that use of a framework revealed no significant changes in
production costs of tender prices, but significant reductions in total
transaction costs for engagement and performance monitoring. These
findings suggest that use of framework procurement methods can support
significant cost savings when used within a public sector environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 460-472
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.892628
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.892628
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:460-472
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carol Jewell
Author-X-Name-First: Carol
Author-X-Name-Last: Jewell
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: The dilemma of scope and scale for construction professional service firms
Abstract:
Construction professional service (CPS) firms sell expertise and provide
innovative solutions for projects founded on their knowledge, experience,
and technical competences. Large CPS firms seeking to grow will often seek
new opportunities in their domestic market and overseas by organic or
inorganic growth through mergers, alliances, and acquisitions. Growth can
also come from increasing market penetration through vertical, horizontal,
and lateral diversification. Such growth, hopefully, leads to economies of
scope and scale in the long term, but it can also lead to diseconomies,
when the added cost of integration and the increased complexity of
diversification no longer create tangible and intangible benefits. The aim
of this research is to investigate the key influences impacting on the
growth in scope and scale for large CPS firms. Qualitative data from the
interviews were underpinned by secondary data from CPS firms' annual
reports and analysts' findings. The findings showed five key influences on
the scope and scale of a CPS firm: the importance of growth as a driver;
the influence of the ownership of the firm on the decision for growth in
scope and scale; the optimization of resources and capabilities; the need
to serve changing clients' needs; and the importance of localization. The
research provides valuable insights into the growth strategies of
international CPS firms. A major finding of the research is the influence
of ownership on CPS firms' growth strategies which has not been
highlighted in previous research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 473-486
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.879194
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.879194
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:473-486
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Title: Performance-Based Contracts for Road Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 487-488
Issue: 5
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.911930
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.911930
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:5:p:487-488
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: Productivity improvement in the construction process
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 489-494
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.930500
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.930500
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:489-494
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shabtai Isaac
Author-X-Name-First: Shabtai
Author-X-Name-Last: Isaac
Author-Name: Ronie Navon
Author-X-Name-First: Ronie
Author-X-Name-Last: Navon
Title: Can project monitoring and control be fully automated?
Abstract:
An extended research programme has examined over the past two decades how
productivity in construction projects can be improved through the
development of models for project monitoring and control, which process
automatically collected data on the actual project performance. Tests that
were conducted with these models demonstrate that this approach can help
overcome some of the limitations of existing manual methods. However, they
also indicate that certain manually obtained data are still required in
addition to the automatically collected data. A framework for
semi-automated project monitoring and control is proposed, in which both
manually and automatically collected data can be incorporated. This
framework integrates the monitoring of projects with their control by
taking into account the impact on productivity of existing deviations from
the planned performance, and of the controlling actions that are proposed
to deal with these deviations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-505
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.795653
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.795653
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:495-505
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rolf B�chmann-Slorup
Author-X-Name-First: Rolf
Author-X-Name-Last: B�chmann-Slorup
Title: Applying critical chain buffer management theory in location-based management
Abstract:
Guidelines for prioritizing buffers on location-based management (LBM)
projects are established through the use of critical chain theory (CCT).
Buffer management theory in LBM has gained little attention from the
research community. CCT builds on the assumption that each task is, either
consciously or unconsciously, given a certain time buffer with which to
cope with unpredicted events, and that these buffers become a large part
of the project lead time. However, CCT suggests that these buffers entail
inherent waste within schedules and fail to protect both critical
activities and projects. CCT assumes that time estimates become
self-fulfilling prophecies, as practitioners tend to procrastinate, and
the buffers are often wasted. In addition, excess time rarely benefits the
project if activities do finish early, because succeeding activities are
unlikely to begin before the planned date. Although the criticisms by CCT
also apply to LBM projects, CCT is based on the critical path method, and
the guidelines from CCT must be adapted to the criticality principle of
LBM theory. Accordingly, the contribution to the body of knowledge of this
article is guidelines of buffer placement and prioritization in LBM that
are based on critical chain buffer management theory.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 506-519
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.797094
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.797094
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:506-519
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan D. Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Alan D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Author-Name: Ngoc Tran
Author-X-Name-First: Ngoc
Author-X-Name-Last: Tran
Author-Name: Sheryl Staub-French
Author-X-Name-First: Sheryl
Author-X-Name-Last: Staub-French
Title: Searching for value: construction strategy exploration and linear planning
Abstract:
Examined is how contractor or construction manager decision making and
judgment in response to client objectives and project constraints can be
aided by a structured approach to construction strategy selection and
assessment using time-space project process and product modelling. The
context studied is one of high-rise construction. Construction strategy is
expressed in terms of strategy modes and tactical variables and
accompanying values, which in turn are expressed in terms of a formal plan
using a linear planning modelling paradigm. Highlighted is the important
role that data visualization can play in both formulating strategy and
assessing its workability via the medium of linear planning graphics
complemented with other data representations that make use of quantitative
product model data. Of particular interest is the ability to formulate and
assess alternative construction strategies in a relatively fast and cost
effective manner in order to achieve best value as a function of project
constraints, context, and project participant objectives. Included in the
assessment task is consideration of the impact of strategy on construction
process productivity and production rates by way of performance metrics
that relate directly to strategy workability. The concepts presented are
illustrated through their application to a large-scale, mixed-use project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 520-547
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.808354
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.808354
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:520-547
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Umberto C. Gatti
Author-X-Name-First: Umberto C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gatti
Author-Name: Giovanni C. Migliaccio
Author-X-Name-First: Giovanni C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Migliaccio
Author-Name: Susan M. Bogus
Author-X-Name-First: Susan M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bogus
Author-Name: Suzanne Schneider
Author-X-Name-First: Suzanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Schneider
Title: An exploratory study of the relationship between construction workforce physical strain and task level productivity
Abstract:
The monitoring of construction workforce physical strain can be a valuable
management strategy in improving workforce productivity, safety, health,
and quality of work. Nevertheless, clear relationships between workforce
performance and physical strain have yet to be established. An exploratory
investigation of the relationship between task level productivity and
physical strain was conducted. Nine participants individually performed a
four-hour simulated construction task while a wearable physiological
status monitor continuously assessed their physiological condition. Heart
rate, relative heart rate, and breathing rate were utilized as predictors
of physical strain, and task level-single factor productivity was used as
an index of productivity. Numerous regression models were generated using
the collected data. This investigation initially unsuccessfully attempted
to establish a relationship between physiological condition and
productivity at the individual worker level. However, an analysis of the
regression models showed that there is a relationship between productivity
and either heart rate or relative heart rate at the group level, and that
this relationship is parabolic. Breathing rate was proved to not be a
significant predictor of productivity. Research results significantly
improve understanding of the relationship between work physiology and task
productivity. Researchers and practitioners may use the tested monitoring
devices, analysis methods, and results to design further applied studies
and to improve workforce productivity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 548-564
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.831463
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.831463
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:548-564
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmet Anil Sezer
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmet Anil
Author-X-Name-Last: Sezer
Author-Name: Jan Br�chner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Br�chner
Title: The construction productivity debate and the measurement of service qualities
Abstract:
Since the 1960s, researchers have provided short-term and long-term
explanations for low productivity growth in the construction industry. In
retrospect, the main challenge appears to be the measurement of changes in
heterogeneous input and output qualities. The aim here is to review
earlier construction productivity research and to compare it with more
recent approaches to quality measurement used when analysing services
productivity, ultimately intending to provide guidance for using
performance data from construction projects. Relying on the EU KLEMS
database, industries with similar patterns of productivity growth are
identified, primarily the business services industry. In services
productivity analyses, the attempts to introduce output quality measures
reflecting customer satisfaction are particularly interesting, as this
creates a link to productivity effects on clients. A conclusion is that it
should be possible to use the increasing volume of performance indicator
data collected for construction project benchmarking for extending the
range of output quality variables. However, resource constraints imply
that it is infeasible to base industry productivity statistics on project
level data reflecting customer satisfaction and customer productivity
effects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 565-574
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.831464
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.831464
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:565-574
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gunnar Lucko
Author-X-Name-First: Gunnar
Author-X-Name-Last: Lucko
Author-Name: Thaís Da C.L. Alves
Author-X-Name-First: Thaís Da C.L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Alves
Author-Name: Vanessa Lira Angelim
Author-X-Name-First: Vanessa Lira
Author-X-Name-Last: Angelim
Title: Challenges and opportunities for productivity improvement studies in linear, repetitive, and location-based scheduling
Abstract:
Despite theoretical advancements in alternative project planning methods
the extent of their practical implementation varies strongly; it has been
limited especially in the US construction industry. The family of linear,
repetitive, and location-based scheduling techniques holds significant but
barely substantiated promise by containing multiple variables of interest
for integrated analysis and optimization. Yet it is necessary to provide
empirical evidence that using such techniques can improve productivity to
increase credibility and acceptance by practitioners, because claims of
conceptual superiority are only sporadically supported with detailed
measures. An analysis is performed to identify relevant decision-making
variables, extract challenges that currently limit the corpus of
quantitative productivity studies on alternative scheduling to its
insufficient size, and reveal opportunities to expand it in breadth and
depth. Variables are categorized by their relevance to time, activity,
resource and location, as well as the managerial approach. Challenges
include the diverse definitions of productivity itself, issues related to
achieving generalizability, and the detailed steps of data collection,
preparation, and analysis. Opportunities include the guidance from
existing but rare studies and well-established research methods such as
case studies that can be applied. This is illustrated with a sample
project of a high-rise apartment building in Brazil. If alternative
methods can be proven to be measurably better for specific applications,
there might be a paradigm shift from merely defaulting to traditional but
problematic network-based scheduling toward consciously choosing the
planning method based on its potential benefits for a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 575-594
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.845305
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.845305
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:575-594
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hassan Nasir
Author-X-Name-First: Hassan
Author-X-Name-Last: Nasir
Author-Name: Hani Ahmed
Author-X-Name-First: Hani
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmed
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Paul M. Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Title: An analysis of construction productivity differences between Canada and the United States
Abstract:
Comparisons of industry sectors in advanced economies since the 1960s show
that the construction sector has lagged in productivity growth rates,
especially in the United States. Although the US and Canadian economies
are highly integrated, Canada's experience differs in key ways. Analysis
of these differences offers insight into fundamental construction
productivity drivers. Three levels of analyses of construction
productivity in the US are provided in this study. The first analysis
compared international levels of labour productivity growth. The second
compared construction productivity between the US and Canada, and the
third analysed cost estimating data from RS Means estimating manuals to
measure the changes in labour and partial factor productivity in the US
from 1995 to 2009. Statistical significance testing indicates that labour
productivity remained nearly constant in the building sub-sector and that
partial factor productivity has improved at an annual compound rate of
0.66%. This supports previous findings that US construction has stagnated
but is still improving in Canada, with wage differentials and training
systems as potential drivers of this difference. While growth rates of
productivity seem to decline with higher absolute levels of productivity,
there is no evidence that high absolute productivity levels preclude
significant growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 595-607
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.848995
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.848995
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:595-607
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Olli Sepp�nen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Sepp�nen
Author-Name: Jake Evinger
Author-X-Name-First: Jake
Author-X-Name-Last: Evinger
Author-Name: Christopher Mouflard
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Mouflard
Title: Effects of the location-based management system on production rates and productivity
Abstract:
Location-based management systems (LBMSs) are becoming more commonly used
to plan and control production in construction projects. The main use has
been to compress durations and improve resource efficiency through
real-time production control and forecasting. LBMS theory proposes that
instead of continuously updating the plan with actualized completion
dates, as with the critical path method (CPM), control actions can be used
to manage an effective response to deviations in production in order to
realign the schedule forecast with the approved plan. Three healthcare
construction projects in California were monitored to document the effects
of planning and control decisions on production rates, resources and
labour consumption. First, the authors hypothesize that proposed control
actions based on the system led to real actions in the field. Second,
these control actions helped in controlling production rates. Third,
control actions decreased subcontractor labour consumption. The results
show that control actions were implemented as a response to production
alarms and half of the implemented control actions were able to prevent
production problems. Many control actions successfully improved production
and labour consumption rates with a long-term impact. However, adding
resources often increased labour consumption and negated part of the
expected production rate benefit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 608-624
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.853881
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.853881
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:608-624
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nimesha Vilasini
Author-X-Name-First: Nimesha
Author-X-Name-Last: Vilasini
Author-Name: Thomas Neitzert
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Neitzert
Author-Name: James Rotimi
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Rotimi
Title: Developing and evaluating a framework for process improvement in an alliance project: a New Zealand case study
Abstract:
'Lean thinking' holds out the promise of dramatic improvements in
construction production processes, especially in waste minimization. While
there exist empirical studies of 'leanness' with regard to
non-relational-type projects, there is a need to analyse its applicability
in relational contexts, such as an alliance. The application of 'lean' to
a project alliance in a viaduct replacement in New Zealand is investigated
here. The primary objective is to define a framework to streamline
improvements in processes and to verify the applicability of the defined
framework to a real construction alliance project. Participant
observations, project documentation and action research meetings were used
to collect data on the waste identification and elimination processes. The
findings indicate that the construction work in a project alliance can be
improved considerably by eliminating or reducing waste. Moreover, the
savings are substantial, as the processes investigated were cyclic and
repetitive. This framework is equally suited to waste detection and
improvements at the site level. Project organizations should detect needs
and opportunities for process change and transform processes accordingly.
The current lack of any waste elimination technique, which could provide a
significant competitive advantage for industry participants, has been
established. Organizational conditions exist in project alliances that
help to disseminate and sustain the lean concept.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-640
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.874565
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.874565
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:625-640
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arno J. Van der Vlist
Author-X-Name-First: Arno J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Van der Vlist
Author-Name: Marien H. Vrolijk
Author-X-Name-First: Marien H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Vrolijk
Author-Name: Geert P.M.R. Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert P.M.R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Title: On information and communication technology and production cost in construction industry: evidence from the Netherlands
Abstract:
The interplay between information and communication technology (ICT) and
the competitiveness of construction firms is considered. More
specifically, the question is whether firms that invest in information and
communication technology have a production cost advantage. The economics
literature hypothesizes that ICT brings about a production cost advantage,
as ICT brings flexibility and improves the planning, organization and
control of work. To test this proposition for the construction industry, a
production cost function allowing for the inclusion of ICT is formulated.
Using statistical nearest-neighbour matching methods it is possible to
identify the effect of ICT on production costs thereby controlling for
economic moderators. Data from a sample of Dutch construction firms reveal
that those firms that installed ICT capital do have a production cost
advantage. The results indicate further that firms need a minimum level of
ICT capital to fully benefit from its production cost advantage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 641-651
Issue: 6
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.911932
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.911932
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:6:p:641-651
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Simon D Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon D
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Conference Issue: ARCOM 29-super-th Annual Conference
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-657
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.938087
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.938087
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:653-657
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: L�on L. olde Scholtenhuis
Author-X-Name-First: L�on L.
Author-X-Name-Last: olde Scholtenhuis
Author-Name: Andr� G. Dor�e
Author-X-Name-First: Andr� G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dor�e
Title: High reliability organizing at the boundary of the CM domain
Abstract:
The construction management (CM) domain
regularly develops and explores new theories and perspectives. These new
insights can shift the existing paradigm radically, they can be
assimilated smoothly, or they can stall as they are debated at CM's domain
boundary. During our current research, we experience that the concepts
from high reliability organizing (HRO) are caught in such a debate. We
elaborate this debate from the viewpoint of two distinctive scientific
traditions and evaluate the main premises that hold HRO at CM's
boundaries. It seems that reductionist scientific traditions underlie much
of the critique which currently diverts debate off into an unproductive
intellectual cul-de-sac. An alternative pragmatic approach would allow
CM's HRO researchers to avoid the confines of the reductionist arguments
as it redirects minds and action on productive and practical research to
achieving more reliable construction project performance, as well as
dealing better with health and safety issues. Above all, the examination
of the HRO boundary debate in CM may help other researchers experiencing
impasses in their debates to explore whether these debates address the
actual notions at stake or are restricted by deeply held views rooted in
scientific traditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 658-664
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.913801
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.913801
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:658-664
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Frank R. Bijleveld
Author-X-Name-First: Frank R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bijleveld
Author-Name: Andr� G. Dor�e
Author-X-Name-First: Andr� G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dor�e
Title: Method-based learning: a case in the asphalt construction industry
Abstract:
Traditional working practices in the
construction industry rely heavily on the onsite experience and
craftsmanship (the tacit knowledge) of operators and teams. This results
in implicit learning and lengthy learning cycles. The aims of the research
are to develop a deeper insight into construction processes and to
instigate a change from current implicit learning to explicit method-based
learning. To change to explicit method-based learning, Kolb's experiential
learning model was introduced into current practices and 'explicating the
process' was added to this learning cycle. Further 'reflective
observation' and 'abstract conceptualization' were incorporated explicitly
during an actual road construction project using feedback sessions with an
asphalting team. The adopted learning framework was found to be applicable
and useful in the quest for enhanced learning capabilities and improved
process control. Fusing Kolb's learning model with onsite collected data
was vital in explicating tacit knowledge and implicit processes. The
approach enabled a meaningful discussion with operators to unravel their
intentions and reasoning behind the chosen strategies. Explicit
method-based learning, as here, leads to improved quality awareness,
better understanding of the processes and their interdependencies, and
improved communication with and within the asphalting team.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 665-681
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.887211
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.887211
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:665-681
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dominic D. Ahiaga-Dagbui
Author-X-Name-First: Dominic D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahiaga-Dagbui
Author-Name: Simon D. Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Dealing with construction cost overruns using data mining
Abstract:
One of the main aims of any construction
client is to procure a project within the limits of a predefined budget.
However, most construction projects routinely overrun their cost
estimates. Existing theories on construction cost overrun suggest a number
of causes ranging from technical difficulties, optimism bias, managerial
incompetence and strategic misrepresentation. However, much of the
budgetary decision-making process in the early stages of a project is
carried out in an environment of high uncertainty with little available
information for accurate estimation. Using non-parametric bootstrapping
and ensemble modelling in artificial neural networks, final project
cost-forecasting models were developed with 1600 completed projects. This
helped to extract information embedded in data on completed construction
projects, in an attempt to address the problem of the dearth of
information in the early stages of a project. It was found that 92% of the
100 validation predictions were within ±10% of the actual final
cost of the project while 77% were within ±5% of actual final cost.
This indicates the model's ability to generalize satisfactorily when
validated with new data. The models are being deployed within the
operations of the industry partner involved in this research to help
increase the reliability and accuracy of initial cost estimates.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 682-694
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.933854
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.933854
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:682-694
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Maarten E.J. Rutten
Author-X-Name-First: Maarten E.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rutten
Author-Name: Andr� G. Dor�e
Author-X-Name-First: Andr� G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dor�e
Author-Name: Johannes I.M. Halman
Author-X-Name-First: Johannes I.M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Halman
Title: Together on the path to construction innovation: yet another example of escalation of commitment?
Abstract:
Collaborative innovation projects are
projects in which firms join forces to cooperate in the development and
commercialization of a new building product, system, or service. They
represent an example of the type of inter-firm relationships that are said
to enhance construction innovation. Organizational behaviour research,
however, suggests that firms participating in such innovation projects run
the risk of escalating commitment and may continue to invest for
irrational reasons. It is therefore relevant to examine whether Dutch
firms that invest, in collaboration with other firms, in the development
and commercialization of a new building product, system, or service are
susceptible to this escalation. Two escalation effects were investigated:
the effect of expected loss of sunk costs, and the effect of perceived
project stage. A survey was undertaken of 154 firms participating in 25
collaborative innovation projects. The results suggest that firms in the
population under study are unlikely to fall victim to either of the two
escalation effects. Rather, the negative association found between the
expected loss of sunk costs and likelihood of continuing investment raises
the question as to whether firms become more cautious when they have spent
a lot.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-704
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.933855
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.933855
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:695-704
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Tansey
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Tansey
Author-Name: John P. Spillane
Author-X-Name-First: John P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spillane
Author-Name: Xianhai Meng
Author-X-Name-First: Xianhai
Author-X-Name-Last: Meng
Title: Linking response strategies adopted by construction firms during the 2007 economic recession to Porter's generic strategies
Abstract:
The time period bridging the years 2007 to
2012 will be remembered as one characterized by dramatic changes in the
Irish and UK construction industries. Construction companies witnessed
unprecedented changes in the environment, namely the coincidence of a
sharp economic downturn, the significant decline of public works, a
reduction in lending, increased competition, and structural changes in the
marketplace. Nevertheless, little has been documented on what response
strategies construction companies adopt as a result of an economic
recession. Based on four exploratory case studies, a taxonomy framework of
the response strategies adopted by Irish and UK construction companies
during the 2007 economic recession was developed relative to Porter's
generic strategies of cost leadership, differentiation, and focus.
Porter's model is a well-known theoretical framework among business
strategists and industrial economists worldwide. The analysis provides
strong support for the adoption of cost leadership strategies as a means
to surviving the 2007 economic recession. The case studies further suggest
that cost control initiatives are one of the most important attributes in
companies' responses to the 2007 recession. The findings provide valuable
assistance for construction contractors in developing effective strategies
and thus reducing business failures during recessionary periods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 705-724
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.933856
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.933856
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:705-724
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chuanjing Ju
Author-X-Name-First: Chuanjing
Author-X-Name-Last: Ju
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Institutional determinants of construction safety management strategies of contractors in Hong Kong
Abstract:
Workplace safety in the construction
industry of Hong Kong is regulated by a mix of enforcement and
performance-based approaches. The two approaches are underpinned by
different institutional structures and lead to divergent safety practices.
To examine how contractors strategically respond to the complex
institutional demands for safety performance, contractors' day-to-day site
safety practices were investigated. Safety practice data were obtained
from 62 open-ended interviews and project archives in a case study.
Different supervision patterns, i.e. enforcement and localized approaches
were found to coexist on site. Discrepancies were found between workers'
self-reported safety awareness and safety awareness assessed by their
supervisors. The evidence suggests that contractors implemented compromise
and avoidance strategies. The complex institutional environment,
especially the incompatible progress and safety requirements, was found to
be a key determinant of mixed site safety practices. Institutional theory
is explored as a possible theoretical perspective to explain contractors'
safety management strategies. An institutional level change of safety
management strategies is suggested.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 725-736
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.909048
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.909048
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:725-736
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Title: Exploring 'Zero Target' safety programmes in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Zero Target safety management programmes
have become prominent on the UK sites of large construction contractors,
who promote 'Zero Harm', 'Mission Zero' or 'Target Zero' on their
hoardings and corporate websites. However, while Zero Target programmes
may inspire increased commitment to safety from some, they may also cause
detachment in others who feel it an unattainable goal for a high-risk
industry. Examination of the practical realities of such Zero Target
safety programmes has been undertaken, to illuminate and understand their
position and potential impact on UK construction site health and safety
management. A social constructionist methodology was employed, with
discourse analysis of corporate websites, reports and promotional
materials from five large contractors currently operating Zero Target
safety programmes on their UK sites, supplemented by conversations with
site management and operatives working on such sites. Zero was constructed
as both a philosophy and a target, the corporate and site voices
developing alternative visions of zero in practice. There is incoherence
and inconsistency within the understandings of zero, which may affect the
practical successes of Zero Target safety programmes, but zero was also
found to have a very necessary place within industry safety management, in
order to support future improvements in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 737-748
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.894248
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.894248
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:737-748
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martine Buser
Author-X-Name-First: Martine
Author-X-Name-Last: Buser
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Title: Is this none of the contractor's business? Social sustainability challenges informed by literary accounts
Abstract:
In Sweden many suburbs built at the end of
the 1960s are in need of physical renovation to comply with new energy
regulations. Some of these neighbourhoods face serious social challenges
which also need to be tackled. The three largest Swedish contractors,
usually very active in providing technical and environmentally friendly
renovation, claim now they can provide social sustainability solutions on
a commercial basis. For many years the problems of deprived suburbs have
attracted the attention and the care of the public institutions, and
though many initiatives have been carried out to address these issues,
results have been sometimes quite limited. To discuss the social
challenges linked to suburbs' renovation, an alternative method is
proposed: the analysis of literary accounts. The goal is to assess whether
stories relating the lives of residents in deprived Swedish suburbs can
inform and therefore contribute to the development of socially sustainable
solutions. Referring to the literature on social sustainability, this
qualitative and explorative study uses critical discourse analysis as the
method. Results suggest that focusing on renovated housing, employment,
social services and leisure activities is not enough to rehabilitate
disadvantaged neighbourhoods. They also indicate some specific problems
linked to the built environment that contractors could help to solve.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 749-759
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.927898
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.927898
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:749-759
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: William H. Collinge
Author-X-Name-First: William H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Collinge
Author-Name: Chris F. Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Stakeholder interpretations of design: semiotic insights into the briefing process
Abstract:
Briefing phase interactions between
clients and designers are recognized as social engagements, characterized
by communicative sign use, where conceptual ideas are gradually
transformed into potential design solutions. A semiotic analysis of
briefing communications between client stakeholders and designers provides
evidence of the significance and importance of stakeholder interpretation
and understanding of design, empirical data being drawn from a qualitative
study of NHS hospital construction projects in the UK. It is contended
that stakeholders engage with a project through communicative signs and
artefacts of design, referencing personal cognitive knowledge in acts of
interpretation that may be different from those of designers and
externally appointed client advisers. Such interpretations occur in
addition to NHS client and design team efforts to 'engage' with and
'understand' stakeholders using a variety of methods. Social semiotic
theorizations indicate how narrative strategies motivate the formulation
of signs and artefacts in briefing work, the role of sign authors and sign
readers being elucidated as a result. Findings are contextualized against
current understandings of briefing communications and stakeholder
management practices, a more socially attuned understanding of breifing
countering some of the process-led improvement models that have
characterized much of the post-Egan report literature. A stakeholder
interpretation model is presented as one potential method to safeguard
against unforeseen interpretations occurring, the model aligning with the
proposal for a more measured recognition of how designs can trigger
interpretations among client stakeholders.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 760-772
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.894247
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.894247
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:760-772
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Sage
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Sage
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Kjell Tryggestad
Author-X-Name-First: Kjell
Author-X-Name-Last: Tryggestad
Author-Name: Lise Justesen
Author-X-Name-First: Lise
Author-X-Name-Last: Justesen
Author-Name: Jan Mouritsen
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Mouritsen
Title: Building with wildlife: project geographies and cosmopolitics in infrastructure construction
Abstract:
Across many construction projects, and
especially infrastructure projects, efforts to mitigate potential loss of
biodiversity and habitat are significant concerns, and at times
politically controversial. And yet, thus far, very little research has
addressed the interplay of humans and animals within construction
projects. Instead those interested in the politics and ethics of
human-animal relations, or animal studies, have arguably focused far more
on more stable and contained sites, whether organizations like zoos, farms
or laboratories, or other places like homes and parks. These largely
ethnographic studies inevitably perhaps downplay the unplanned, unexpected
and highly politically and ethically charged, collision of hitherto rather
separate human and animal geographies. Yet it is often within such
colliding spaces, where animal geographies are unexpectedly found at the
heart of human projects, that we formulate our respect and response to
both animals and indeed other humans. We develop an examination of such
encounters, with conceptual reference to actor-network theory, and
documented empirically through case studies of two infrastructure
projects; the findings of our research are relevant to both construction
project management and future animal studies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 773-786
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.911933
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.911933
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:773-786
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Clare Shipton
Author-X-Name-First: Clare
Author-X-Name-Last: Shipton
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Author-Name: Dylan Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Title: Change management in practice: an ethnographic study of changes to contract requirements on a hospital project
Abstract:
Changes to client requirements are
inevitable during construction. Industry discourse is concerned with
minimizing and controlling changes. However, accounts of practices
involved in making changes are rare. In response to calls for more
research into working practices, an ethnographic study of a live hospital
project was undertaken to explore how changes are made. A vignette of a
meeting exploring the investigation of changes illustrates the issues.
This represents an example from the ethnographic fieldwork, which produced
many observations. There was a strong emphasis on using change management
procedures contained within the contract to investigate changes, even when
it was known that the change was not required. For the practitioners, this
was a way of demonstrating best practice, transparent and accountable
decision-making regarding changes. Hence, concerns for following
procedures sometimes overshadowed considerations about whether or not a
change was required to improve the functionality of the building. However,
the procedures acted as boundary objects between the communities of
practice involved on the project by coordinating the work of managing
changes. Insights suggest how contract procedures facilitate and impede
the making of changes, which can inform policy guidance and contract
drafting.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 787-803
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.915336
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.915336
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:787-803
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John-Paul Smiley
Author-X-Name-First: John-Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Smiley
Author-Name: Scott Fernie
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Fernie
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Understanding construction reform discourses
Abstract:
Attempts to drive change and reform of the
UK construction industry have been an ongoing concern for numerous
stakeholders, both in government and across industry, for years. The issue
is a seemingly perennially topical one which shows little sign of abating.
Scholarly analyses of the reform agenda have tended to adopt a Critical
Theory perspective. Such an approach, however, lacks a certain nuance and
perhaps only reveals one layer of social reality. What is arguably lacking
is a more fundamental exposition concerning the historical, social and
cultural explanatory forces at play. While it is illuminating to expose
vested interests, ideology and power, what has led to the development of
various views? How have they come to achieve such high accord in
discussions? Drawing on the works of Max Weber, Georg Simmel and Barbara
Adam, this paper seeks to develop a broader theoretical lens. It considers
the wider socio-cultural structures and forces that influence behaviour,
shape and constrain these views. This approach will contribute to a much
needed broader philosophical and theoretical debate within the
construction management community (and beyond) on the need to better
engage with, and understand, the sources influencing the issue of policy
formulation and diffusion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 804-815
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.909049
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.909049
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:804-815
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Close
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Close
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Breaking down the site hoardings: attitudes and approaches to community consultation during construction
Abstract:
As the general public become more
empowered, informed and educated about the impact of business activities
on their lives, they are demanding more involvement in construction
projects which they perceive to affect their interests. The process of
community consultation is traditionally seen as the responsibility of
urban planners but residual community concerns often spill over into
construction requiring construction professionals to also consult with
communities. To investigate current attitudes and approaches towards
community consultation during construction, 150 construction professionals
were surveyed and 10 interviewed. The results indicate that the majority
of the professionals involved during construction consider community
consultation a burdensome, costly and time-consuming exercise. The
community is seen as a liability rather than an asset and few construction
professionals have the skills to consult effectively. There appears to be
a widespread assumption that community consultation is the responsibility
of town planners before work starts on site and that further interaction
with the community is a nuisance, once construction starts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 816-828
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.879195
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.879195
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:816-828
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Taggart
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Taggart
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: John Rooke
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Rooke
Title: The role of the supply chain in the elimination and reduction of construction rework and defects: an action research approach
Abstract:
Since 2007, Ireland has suffered a circa
80% reduction in construction output. This has resulted in bankruptcy,
unemployment and bad debt. Contractors have attached greater emphasis to
production efficiency and cost reduction as a means of survival. An action
research (AR) strategy was used to improve processes adopted by a
small/medium enterprise (SME) contractor for the control of defects in its
supply chain. It is conservatively estimated that rework, typically,
accounts for circa 5% of total project costs. Rework is wasteful and
presents an obvious target for improvement. The research reported here
concerns the (first) diagnosing stage of the AR cycle only, involving:
observation of fieldwork, analysis of contract documents, and
semi-structured interviews with supply chain members. The results indicate
potential for supply chain participants to identify root causes of defects
and propose solutions, having regard to best practice to avoid
reoccurrence. A lack of collaborative forums to contribute to production
improvement was identified. Additionally the processes used to collect,
manage and disseminate data were unstructured and uncoordinated,
indicating scope for developing more efficient methods. The findings
indicate a good understanding of the potential benefits for supply chain
collaboration but suggest that the tools and knowledge to collaborate are
currently lacking in the SME sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 829-842
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.904965
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.904965
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:7-8:p:829-842
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Terence Hogarth
Author-X-Name-First: Terence
Author-X-Name-Last: Hogarth
Author-Name: Lynn Gambin
Author-X-Name-First: Lynn
Author-X-Name-Last: Gambin
Title: Employer investment in Apprenticeships in England: an exploration of the sensitivity of employers in the construction sector to the net costs of training
Abstract:
Apprenticeships in England are undergoing
major reform which will likely require employers to make a cash
contribution to meeting the fees of their training providers. In return
employers will be given more influence over the content of the training.
If employers are expected to make a cash contribution this is likely to
have an impact on their willingness to deliver Apprenticeships. Based on a
series of employer case studies conducted between 1995 and 2011 an
examination is provided of construction employers' sensitivity to the
costs of delivering Apprenticeships. Because the cost to the employer is
relatively high, and because there is a degree of uncertainty attached to
recouping those costs, there is a distinct set of disincentives to
construction employers providing Apprenticeships. This is important.
First, the construction sector will need to recruit a large number of
additional people into skilled trades jobs over the next 10 years as the
sector's recovery gains pace and many existing employees retire. Second,
Apprenticeships in the sector have an important role to play in young
people's transition from school into work. A fall in the number of
apprentices in the sector is likely to have important economic and social
consequences.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 845-856
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.923577
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.923577
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:845-856
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Finn Orstavik
Author-X-Name-First: Finn
Author-X-Name-Last: Orstavik
Title: Innovation as re-institutionalization: a case study of technological change in housebuilding in Norway
Abstract:
Case study can give important new insights
into the systemic nature of construction innovation and the
interrelationship between local innovation successes and structural forces
shaping the sector. Even well-defined, modular innovations can have
significant repercussions on the industry level. Recent innovation in
building materials for wet rooms in Norway represents an attempt to modify
only limited aspects of the established approach to housebuilding, but is
made difficult by institutions and actors relying on established methods
and existing building products. Institutions acting as innovation brokers
can be very important for innovators. However, brokering is no panacea for
promoting disruptive innovation. A broker can thwart rather than promote
potentially useful but disruptive innovations. Because innovation is a
re-institutionalization process, the third-party position needed for
brokering effectively can be undermined, whenever a successful broker
attains vested interests in the innovation outcomes it has helped bring
forth. Methodologically, employing theories on technological innovation
systems and on multilevel socio-technical systems shows that these are
effective, complementary tools for analysis of innovation in construction.
Only the latter incorporates the notion of innovation as creative
destruction, and it is by drawing on this theory that the precariousness
of the brokering role can be highlighted.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 857-873
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.895848
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.895848
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:857-873
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fah Choy Chia
Author-X-Name-First: Fah Choy
Author-X-Name-Last: Chia
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Adrian Bridge
Author-X-Name-First: Adrian
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridge
Title: Economic development and construction productivity in Malaysia
Abstract:
The productivity of the construction
industry has a significant effect on national economic growth. Gains from
higher construction productivity flow through the economy, as all
industries rely on construction to some extent as part of their business
investment. Contractions and expansions of economic activity are common
phenomena in an economy. Three construction cycles occurred between the
years 1970 and 2011 in Malaysia. The relationships between construction
productivity and economic development are examined by the partial
correlation method to establish the underlying factors driving the change
in construction productivity. Construction productivity is statistically
significantly correlated with gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in a
positive direction for the 1985-98 and 1998-2009 cycles, but not the
1970-85 cycle. Fluctuations in construction activities and the influx of
foreign workers underlie the changes of construction productivity in the
1985-98 cycle. There was less fluctuation in construction activities in
the 1998-2009 cycle, with changes being mainly due to the fiscal
stimulation policies of the government in attempting to stabilize the
economy. The intensive construction of mega-projects resulted in resource
constraints and cost pressures during the 1980s and 1990s. A better
management of the 'boom-bust' nature of the construction business cycle is
required to maintain the capability and capacity of the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 874-887
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.938086
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.938086
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:874-887
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Shiu
Author-X-Name-First: Eric
Author-X-Name-Last: Shiu
Author-Name: Zhizhong Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhizhong
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Author-Name: Ghasem Zaefarian
Author-X-Name-First: Ghasem
Author-X-Name-Last: Zaefarian
Title: Antecedents of behavioural commitment in inter-organizational relationships: a field study of the UK construction industry
Abstract:
Commitment is vital in
inter-organizational relationships. It is important to understand what
drives commitment which then affects the relationship between
organizations. Commitment is a multidimensional construct and its
dimensions can be broadly categorized into attitudinal and behavioural
perspectives. In conventional practice, commitment researchers have tended
to focus on the attitudinal perspective, while the behavioural perspective
is largely ignored. In an attempt to buck that conventional trend
commitment research is proposed along the unconventional but widely
accepted as important behavioural perspective, building up a more complete
understanding of the importance of behavioural commitment, as well as
developing and validating a theoretical model that depicts precisely the
relationship between behavioural commitment and its key driving factors.
Accordingly a large-scale questionnaire survey has been conducted in the
UK construction industry and 636 responses were collected. Structural
equation modelling was then used to test the theoretical model. Results
validate trust, reliance and dependence as the major antecedents of
behavioural commitment. A new direction in commitment research adds new
findings to the current body of commitment literature.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 888-903
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.915335
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.915335
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:888-903
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timothy M. Rose
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rose
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Title: Revisiting the adoption of innovative products on Australian road infrastructure projects
Abstract:
Construction product innovation can exert
a positive influence on project and industry performance. However,
guidance is scarce on product innovation diffusion for road
infrastructure, in contrast to the large body of literature on the
manufacturing industry. A conceptual framework is proposed to understand
these processes. Advice is given to managers based on the framework and a
large quantitative survey. The framework focuses on contextual
characteristics that influence the decision to adopt new-to-industry
product innovation, as part of a diffusion process. Case study data are
interpreted within the revised framework to test its value and
disaggregate the broad obstacles to innovation. A large quantitative
survey was then conducted to rank the relative importance of the obstacles
constraining the adoption of innovative products on road construction
projects. The three most important obstacles were found to be: (1)
overemphasis on up-front project costs during tender stage; (2)
disagreement over who carries the risk of new product failure; and (3)
adversarial contract relations. The results suggest refinements to the
conceptual framework to make it a more powerful tool for categorizing and
analysing construction innovation obstacles. Results also suggest
well-resourced repeat interactions within complementary procurement and
regulatory systems will enhance the project teams' ability to recognize
and address innovation obstacles. Further, improved relationships are
expected to decrease the need for an overly conservative approach to
product approval and prescriptive specifications.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 904-917
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.938670
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.938670
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:904-917
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Payam Pirzadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Payam
Author-X-Name-Last: Pirzadeh
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Author-Name: Ron Wakefield
Author-X-Name-First: Ron
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakefield
Author-Name: Brian Kleiner
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Kleiner
Title: Exploring the link between early constructor involvement in project decision-making and the efficacy of health and safety risk control
Abstract:
The position of the constructor in
communication networks, including those before the commencement of
construction, is likely related to the quality of work health and safety
(WHS) outcomes realized. In order to examine the extent of this
relationship, 23 cases were drawn from 10 participating construction
projects in Australia and New Zealand. Social network analysis was used to
mathematically and graphically model information exchanges in 13 of these
cases. For each case, the quality of WHS risk control outcomes was
measured. This measurement was based on an established 'hierarchy of
control' in which risk controls are classified in descending order of
effectiveness from the elimination of a hazard (the most effective) to the
reliance on personal protective equipment (the least effective). Social
network metrics were calculated reflecting: (1) the ratio of actual links
among parties in the project network relative to the maximum number of
links possible (network density); and (2) the extent to which the
constructor communicated with other parties in pre-project planning and
design stages (the constructors' degree centrality). Network metrics were
compared for cases in which the risk control scores were higher and lower
than average. The results showed a significant difference in constructors'
pre-construction degree centrality for cases with high and low risk
control scores. The results provide preliminary evidence as to the
potential WHS benefits of ensuring that constructors' knowledge about
construction methods, materials, WHS risks and means of risk control, are
integrated into pre-construction decision-making.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 918-931
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.911931
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.911931
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:918-931
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amin Akhavan Tabassi
Author-X-Name-First: Amin Akhavan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabassi
Author-Name: Mahyuddin Ramli
Author-X-Name-First: Mahyuddin
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramli
Author-Name: Kamand M. Roufechaei
Author-X-Name-First: Kamand M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Roufechaei
Author-Name: Arash Akhavan Tabasi
Author-X-Name-First: Arash Akhavan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabasi
Title: Team development and performance in construction design teams: an assessment of a hierarchical model with mediating effect of compensation
Abstract:
A high-performance construction workplace
invests in its human resources and facilitates their technical and
innovation skills through team development. Though team development has
been explored in many studies, to date, little research has disentangled
how team development and compensation methods enhance team performance in
construction companies. Accordingly, team development as a hierarchical,
reflective construct, incorporating six associated components was extended
and the variables of the model in a nomological network analysed using
partial least squares (PLS). As a result, with the help of PLS path
modelling, a hierarchical team development construct with the mediating
effects of compensation on the relationship between team development and
team performance was developed. The research analysis was completed on a
sample population of 128 construction design teams and the results lead to
the development of a model that shows team development has a significant
direct and indirect impact on team performance. The results also confirm
the mediating role of group compensation on the relationship between team
development and team performance. In general, it is suggested that the
design teams achieved better performance when the leaders adapted team
compensation methods consistent with the team development practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 932-949
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.935739
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.935739
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Author-Name: Steven Male
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Male
Title: Professional Services Agreements
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 950-952
Issue: 9
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.933853
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.933853
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:9:p:950-952
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yukiko Konno
Author-X-Name-First: Yukiko
Author-X-Name-Last: Konno
Title: Japanese competitive bid entry qualifications: an examination of public works
Abstract:
This study summarises the independent competitive bid entry qualifications
examination of public works in Japan. Contractors who wish to undertake
public works must be scored by a nationwide standardised objective
examination called Keiei Jikou Sinsa or
Keisin in Japanese. They must be graded on the basis of
the score of not only the objective examination but also an independent
assessment by the orderers. This study explains the calculation of
Keisin using a virtual contractor. This study also
discusses the effectiveness of Keisin and the efficiency
of the grading system. Keisin is used not only for bid
entry qualifications in public works, but also to evaluate construction
companies by the orderers of private works and financial institutions.
Additionally, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
uses Keisin to promote subscription to social insurance
and thus contribute to improve workers' lifelong protection. The Japanese
grading system in public bids underpins competitive bidding among firms of
similar scale and capability, while providing opportunities for SMEs in
every industry class to obtain construction contracts as prime
contractors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 957-967
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.948465
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.948465
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:10:p:957-967
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Reliability of Engineering News-Record international construction data
Abstract:
Since the late 1970s, the Engineering News-Record
(ENR) has produced annual lists ranking firms involved in
development of the built environment on the basis of their international
revenues. ENR lists, such as the Top 225 International
Contractors and the Top 200 International Design Firms, have become
popular datasets for international construction research. Nonetheless,
given that the ENR data are self-reported, reviewers for
journals and research funding bodies frequently question the reliability
of the data. The aim of this research is to ascertain the extent to which
the self-report ENR data can be considered reliable for
international construction research. Inter-data reliability tests
conducted to measure the levels of resemblance between the
ENR data and annual report data of 51 sample companies
found that, contrary to the prevalent view that companies reporting to the
ENR tend to inflate their revenues, there are no
systematic errors in the ENR data. Although slight
discrepancies were found, ENR data can be confidently
used for international construction research. Journal reviewers and
editors should be more open to ENR international
construction data, rather than taking the default position that the data
are inherently and seriously problematic and thus automatically dismissing
those studies that use such data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 968-982
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.919403
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.919403
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jaewhan Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Jaewhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: Peter Philips
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Philips
Title: Remuneration and absenteeism on a large construction site
Abstract:
While scholarly consensus is that construction absenteeism is a serious
and widespread problem, aggregate US and Canadian data show construction
absenteeism rates substantially below cross-industry averages. While
construction absenteeism research focuses on workplace culture and norms,
contractors continue to manage absenteeism primarily as an individual
problem. While remuneration and labour market conditions are generally
acknowledged to influence construction absenteeism, little research has
focused on these factors. High labour turnover in construction resolves
the first two conundrums. Adapting to higher labour turnover by limiting
investment in firm-specific human capital, contractors are quicker to fire
absent workers reducing construction's measured absentee rates. Higher
labour turnover also constrains contractors' ability to shape workplace
culture while facilitating the individual treatment of absentee workers.
The construction absentee literature's methodological focus on workplace
surveys explains the absence of research on labour market conditioning of
construction absenteeism. This case study using payroll data from a large,
unionized US industrial construction site shows not only that absenteeism
leads to discharge, but also, that absenteeism is a precursor of both
quits and discharges for reasons other than absenteeism. Furthermore, a 1
percentage point increase in the unemployment rate reduced the probability
that a worker would be fired for absenteeism by 48%; a $100 increase in
weekly overtime pay reduced a worker's probability of being fired for
absenteeism by 27% and a $100 increase in per diem or travel pay reduced a
worker's probability of being fired for absenteeism by 75%.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 983-999
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.944550
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.944550
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:10:p:983-999
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alex Albert
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Albert
Author-Name: Matthew R. Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Author-Name: Brian M. Kleiner
Author-X-Name-First: Brian M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kleiner
Title: Experimental field testing of a real-time construction hazard identification and transmission technique
Abstract:
Hazard identification and communication are integral to most construction
methods, and every construction safety management activity. Unfortunately,
in practice, significant hazards are often not recognized and communicated
leading to sub-optimal hazard awareness at the crew level. To bridge this
gap in performance, we conducted a two-year intensive research project
focused on developing a strategy that increases the proportion of hazards
identified, communicated, and managed. Specifically, we designed a hazard
identification and transmission (HIT) board that is used in conjunction
with energy-based retrieval mnemonics and facilitates identifying and
communicating hazards during both the planning and the execution phases.
The strength of this strategy lies in the fact that workers are able to
detect and communicate hazards in real time using energy-source mnemonic
cues, which significantly reduces cognitive demand. Following development,
we conducted immersive field studies to evaluate the impact of the devised
strategy on two projects in the United States. Data from six crews were
gathered using the rigorous multiple baseline testing experimental
approach and analysis was conducted using interrupted time-series
regression models. The results indicate that the crews were able to
recognize and communicate only an average of 54% of hazards in the
baseline phase, but were able to recognize and communicate 77% during the
planning phase after using the intervention. An additional 6% of hazards
were identified and communicated in the execution phase. This represents
the first known formal effort to evaluate a real-time hazard
identification and communication strategy for the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1000-1016
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.929721
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.929721
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yukiko Konno
Author-X-Name-First: Yukiko
Author-X-Name-Last: Konno
Title: Default or exit? Empirical study on SMEs in the Japanese construction industry
Abstract:
The market size of Japan's construction industry is decreasing. Preventing
several major contractors from controlling the bidding of public works
projects requires a certain number of other participants to be involved.
Therefore, analysing the factors that affect the defaults or exits of
small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can effectively contribute to
the stable supply of public services and the fair competition of bids.
This research examines the factors affecting the defaults and exits of
prime contractors in the public works of SMEs in the Japanese construction
industry. Using construction company evaluation (Keiei Jikou
Sinsa or Keisin) data in Japan as a basis, the
factors are analysed using the multinomial logit model. Some
Keisin scores and financial and non-financial performance
indicators significantly affect defaults and exits, but the influence of
each variable between them differs. In particular, the findings where
non-financial performance indicators are able to predict defaults and
exits are unique. Consequently, if the data from SMEs are obtained, then
the analytical method employed in this study is useful for predicting
future exits and defaults.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1017-1029
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.927068
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.927068
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:10:p:1017-1029
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Le Ma
Author-X-Name-First: Le
Author-X-Name-Last: Ma
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Did the late-2000s financial crisis influence construction labour productivity?
Abstract:
The late-2000s global financial crisis has wrought dramatic impacts on the
construction industry. However, the issue of whether the crisis influenced
the behaviours of the construction industry has not been addressed yet.
This research presents an econometric approach to investigating the
effects of the recent global financial crisis on construction labour
productivity. By employing the error correction model and panel regression
methods, the direct and indirect effects of the financial crisis on the
changes in Australian construction labour productivity are explored at
national and state levels. Neither the direct nor the indirect effects
appear statistically significant. The results indicate that the direct
effect of the financial crisis drives up construction labour productivity
at the national level, while the indirect effect diminishes productivity.
The effects of the financial crisis on the state construction labour
productivity vary from state to state. The financial crisis influenced
construction labour productivity directly and significantly in the
northern and eastern regions, while the direct effects appear not
significant in the other states and territories. The indirect effects of
the financial crisis on productivity are statistically significant in
three regions: the Australian Capital Territory, the Northern Territory
and Western Australia. By comparison, the model with the financial effects
fails to provide more accurate simulating results. As such, this research
concludes that the influence of the late-2000s financial crisis on
Australian national and state construction labour productivity is limited.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1030-1047
Issue: 10
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.944927
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.944927
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:10:p:1030-1047
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert Lundkvist
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Lundkvist
Author-Name: John Henrik Meiling
Author-X-Name-First: John Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Meiling
Author-Name: Marcus Sandberg
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Sandberg
Title: A proactive plan-do-check-act approach to defect management based on a Swedish construction project
Abstract:
In order to continuously improve quality and avoid reoccurrence of
defects, defect management (DM) in construction needs to take a more
proactive approach. The classification of construction information is
important for the efficient exchange and integration of data between the
many roles and phases of construction and facility management, but it also
provides a framework for standardization, which in turn is paramount for
improvement. In order to better understand how defects can be managed
proactively we conducted a case study on inspection practices at a large
construction project in Sweden, using observation and analysis of
inspection reports. We identified opportunities and obstacles in the
classification of defect data. The project's defect descriptions were
often ambiguous and the records lacked important contextual information.
We believe that this was because current practice is not designed with
proactivity in mind, and there are only regulatory requirements on the
data, making classification difficult. In addition, by viewing the
project's practices through the lenses of continuous improvement and
plan-do-check-act theory to identify missing or inadequate steps, we
propose a framework for a proactive version of the current defect
management process that could potentially help to prioritize improvement
work and reduce the incidence of defects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1051-1065
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.966733
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.966733
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1051-1065
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Moore
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Moore
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Burnout of undergraduate construction management students in Australia
Abstract:
Burnout has been identified as a serious problem for the Australian
construction industry, having negative effects at both individual and the
organizational levels. While there is accumulating research into the
causes and consequences of burnout for professionals working in the
construction industry, we have little understanding of construction
students' susceptibility to burnout. This is despite constantly increasing
pressures to self-fund their studies and balance the extra demands of
study, on top of work-life demands. Using the Maslach Burnout Inventory -
Student Survey (MBI-SS), a survey of 369 construction management students
from across eight Australian universities shows that Australian students
suffer from considerably higher levels of burnout than comparative
professional samples. Levels of burnout showed a relationship with both
their time spent at work and their overall satisfaction with study and
work life, raising important issues for both educators and employers. It
was also found that academic study may not be the primary life domain of
many of these students and that theoretically, the notion of
work-life-study balance may be a more appropriate way, than traditional
concepts of work-life balance, to conceptualize the challenges faced by
these students.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1066-1077
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.966734
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.966734
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1066-1077
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Li-Ying Cheng
Author-X-Name-First: Li-Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheng
Author-Name: De-Cheng Wen
Author-X-Name-First: De-Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Wen
Author-Name: Hong-Chang Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Hong-Chang
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Title: The performance excellence model in construction enterprises: an application study with modelling and analysis
Abstract:
The key factors of successful application of the performance excellence
model (PEM) in construction enterprises are explored from the angle of
internal and external collaboration. A systematic review is employed to
define the foundation of the PEM and to examine which part of the PEM can
be problematic when it is applied in construction. Next, according to the
research paradigm of grounded theory, TS Group is taken as a
representative case to analyse the specific application of the PEM.
Encoding and analysing the interview data enable the process and results
chain for PEM implementation to be refined. With the help of a canonical
model, the logical relationships among phenomenon, action strategy, and
control results are displayed. Finally, the optimal operational framework
for each key factor is designed to reveal their corresponding causal
conditions, context and effect mechanism.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1078-1092
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.956131
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.956131
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1078-1092
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin L�wstedt
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: L�wstedt
Author-Name: Christine R�is�nen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: R�is�nen
Title: Social identity in construction: enactments and outcomes
Abstract:
A social identity lens and theories of self-reinforcement are used to
explore identity work and processes of identification at the micro-level
in a large construction company. Rich data from a qualitative case study
show that a strong collective identification is self-defining for the vast
majority of managers in the organization, regardless of their role and
function. This collective identification revolved around the trade of
'being a construction worker', associated with the traits of being
practically oriented and of having a long professional background in
construction. This collective identification seems to reinforce itself by
a combination of pulling and pushing movements and/or 'being blind'
vis-�-vis those that stand outside its self-defining core, content, and
behaviours. The results of the study suggest that self-defining at the
individual and group levels has implications for organizational
performance and outcomes. It is also suggested that the use of a social
identity lens can help increase understanding of interpersonal relations,
collaboration, and change initiatives in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1093-1105
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.956132
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.956132
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1093-1105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Anthony Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Rajen Govender
Author-X-Name-First: Rajen
Author-X-Name-Last: Govender
Author-Name: Peter J. Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Title: An integrated model of HIV/AIDS testing behaviour in the construction industry
Abstract:
The South African construction industry is one of the economic sectors
most adversely affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Prevalence rates exceed
those of most other sectors. Little is known about the antibody testing
behaviour of construction workers, and the determinants thereof. A
field-administered questionnaire survey, using an item catalogue based on
similar surveys, gathered data from 512 site-based construction employees
in the Western Cape, South Africa. An integrated hypothesized conceptual
model of testing behaviour, derived from the literature, was proposed as a
starting point for data analysis. This model comprising demographic
factors, lifestyle risk and condom use, alcohol consumption, drug use,
knowledge about HIV/AIDS, prejudice towards HIV+ persons, and attitudinal
fear of being tested, was used to explain testing behaviour. Bivariate
analysis, regression modelling, and structural equation modelling were
then used to test the conceptual model. A revised model was proposed. The
findings indicate that: (1) employment type, alcohol consumption, drug
use, and HIV/AIDS knowledge are the terminal predictors of testing
behaviour; (2) knowledge about the disease is determined by education
level and ethnicity; (3) age, gender, ethnicity and education behave as
significant predictors of alcohol consumption; (4) drug use is predicted
by employment type, education and alcohol consumption (marginally); and
(5) the interrelationship between knowledge, prejudice, and fear of being
tested is nuanced and complex. In strategies for positively influencing
employee testing behaviour, employers should first ensure that effective
communication is established with workers in all employment categories.
Interventions relating to alcohol consumption and drug use by employees
need particular attention. Existing peer educator training, and awareness
campaign media, should be particularly sensitive to ethnic and cultural
values that are likely to influence HIV/AIDS testing behaviour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1106-1129
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.958509
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.958509
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1106-1129
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dubem Ikediashi
Author-X-Name-First: Dubem
Author-X-Name-Last: Ikediashi
Author-Name: Ikemefuna Mbamali
Author-X-Name-First: Ikemefuna
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbamali
Title: Modelling the impact of outsourcing decisions on facilities management service-level performance: a case of Nigeria's public hospitals
Abstract:
The evolving trends within the facilities management (FM) domain over the
past decades mean that it is becoming increasingly complex while the
interrelationship between FM services provision and the decision to
outsource has added more pressure to the issue of strategic decision
management in FM. Using data from Nigeria's public hospitals, a developed
conceptual model is tested in an attempt to understand the underlying
attributes of outsourcing decisions and their links to FM services
performance. The hypothesized model employs structural equation modelling
(SEM) methodology to examine the relationships between five latent
constructs of the outsourcing decision and their relative impact on FM
services performance. Findings reveal that quality consideration is one of
the most significant drivers impacting on service performance of FM
services in hospitals. What is surprising, however, is the rejection of
the proposition that strategy-related factors impact on service-level
performance while social factors do not have a significant impact on
service-level performance. It is hoped that these findings will contribute
to the current methodological literature on the use of SEM for analysing
complex interactions within the FM industry domain while they will avail
practitioners of the key components of the outsourcing decision that are
having the most significant impact on service performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1130-1147
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.961497
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.961497
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1130-1147
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mirosław J. Skibniewski
Author-X-Name-First: Mirosław J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Skibniewski
Title: Mobile and Pervasive Computing in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1148-1150
Issue: 11
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.949810
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.949810
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:11:p:1148-1150
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Demian
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Demian
Author-Name: David Walters
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Walters
Title: The advantages of information management through building information modelling
Abstract:
As building information modelling (BIM) is positioned by governments and
construction professionals as a solution to the problems in the
construction industry, research is needed into the benefits BIM actually
confers. The focus here is on the effectiveness of BIM as a medium for
communicating information within a construction team. A case study of an
offsite precast concrete fabrication facility was conducted. At the time
of the study, the facility was supplying precast units for four public
sector projects, and using four information management systems: e-mail, a
construction project extranet tool, an Enterprise Resource Planning system
and a new BIM-based system. The flow of information through the four media
was measured and visualized as the projects progressed. This quantitative
measurement of information flow was combined with qualitative data from
interviews with facility staff. It was found that the introduction of the
BIM-based system diverted information flow through the building model and
away from the extranet system. The use of e-mail was largely unaffected.
BIM allowed considerably more accurate, on-time and appropriate exchange
of information. It is concluded it is possible to quantify some of the
benefits of BIM to information management. This research paves the way for
future research into the management of more construction project
information linked more closely to building models.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1153-1165
Issue: 12
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2013.777754
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2013.777754
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:12:p:1153-1165
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pia Storvang
Author-X-Name-First: Pia
Author-X-Name-Last: Storvang
Author-Name: Ann H�jbjerg Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Ann H�jbjerg
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Title: How to create a space for stakeholders' involvement in construction
Abstract:
The aim is to investigate how stakeholders can participate in the early
phases of construction projects and how relevant insights can be gathered
from stakeholders with very different backgrounds and interests. To gain
these insights, it is important to understand how a space can be created
to facilitate communication between professionals and stakeholders. The
research draws on the literature of design and user-driven innovation in
order to get a richer understanding of stakeholders' involvement in
construction. The method applied is research based on three stakeholder
workshops, interviews and observations from a single case study. The
findings provide valuable information on six aspects of who the
stakeholders are in construction, what these stakeholders can do in
construction when involved, how to involve these stakeholders in a
construction project, how a space can be staged and facilitated for the
meeting of stakeholders, and what kind of information can be collected
from the stakeholders to influence the development process. The findings
show how creating and facilitating a workshop as a socio-technical space
across boundaries can overcome barriers and improve stakeholders'
involvement and thus provide better insights into their needs, values and
concerns.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1166-1182
Issue: 12
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.966732
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.966732
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:12:p:1166-1182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sarel Lavy
Author-X-Name-First: Sarel
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavy
Author-Name: John A. Garcia
Author-X-Name-First: John A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Garcia
Author-Name: Phil Scinto
Author-X-Name-First: Phil
Author-X-Name-Last: Scinto
Author-Name: Manish K. Dixit
Author-X-Name-First: Manish K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dixit
Title: Key performance indicators for facility performance assessment: simulation of core indicators
Abstract:
Assessing a facility's performance is important for measuring its
contribution towards organizational goals. Among many approaches to
performance assessment is the holistic key performance indicator (KPI)
approach. However, there are numerous KPIs available, and the chosen KPI
needs to be relevant to facility goals and must be calculated, analysed
and evaluated to allow for the future state of the facility to be
acceptable at the lowest cost. The value of several key descriptive
analytics in facility performance assessment may be enhanced through the
use of simulation. Simulation transforms the descriptive analytics into
predictive and prescriptive analytics by allowing for the robust
assessment of plans and future outcomes through the creation of multiple
scenarios, in this case, for an education facility. The simulation
approach quantifies the interrelationship and interdependence of KPIs, and
is potentially effective in analysing how maintenance expenditures can be
optimized to maintain a desired level of Condition Index as demonstrated
by several simulation scenarios.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1183-1204
Issue: 12
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.970208
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.970208
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:12:p:1183-1204
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Heng Jiang
Author-X-Name-First: Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Jiang
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: A panel vector error correction approach to forecasting demand in regional construction markets
Abstract:
Reliable forecasting as to the level of aggregate demand for construction
is of vital importance to developers, builders and policymakers. Previous
construction demand forecasting studies mainly focused on temporal
estimating using national aggregate data. The construction market can be
better represented by a group of interconnected regions or local markets
rather than a national aggregate, and yet regional forecasting techniques
have rarely been applied. Furthermore, limited research has applied
regional variations in construction markets to construction demand
modelling and forecasting. A new comprehensive method is used, a panel
vector error correction approach, to forecast regional construction demand
using Australia's state-level data. The links between regional
construction demand and general economic indicators are investigated by
panel cointegration and causality analysis. The empirical results suggest
that both long-run and causal links are found between regional
construction demand and construction price, state income, population,
unemployment rates and interest rates. The panel vector error correction
model can provide reliable and robust forecasting with less than 10% of
the mean absolute percentage error for a medium-term trend of regional
construction demand and outperforms the conventional forecasting models
(panel multiple regression and time series multiple regression model). The
key macroeconomic factors of construction demand variations across regions
in Australia are also presented. The findings and robust econometric
techniques used are valuable to construction economists in examining
future construction markets at a regional level.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1205-1221
Issue: 12
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.977800
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.977800
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:12:p:1205-1221
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nader Naderpajouh
Author-X-Name-First: Nader
Author-X-Name-Last: Naderpajouh
Author-Name: Makarand Hastak
Author-X-Name-First: Makarand
Author-X-Name-Last: Hastak
Title: Quantitative analysis of policies for governance of emergent dynamics in complex construction projects
Abstract:
The complexity trend of construction projects is increasing, not only
technologically but on several other fronts, such as the institutional
diversity of the actors and the coupling of their interactions. As a
result of this increase in complexity, projects frequently face the
dynamics attributed to emerging actors, coalitions, contextual properties,
or synergies. Reflecting this trend within the project governance
framework provides a better understanding of the emergent risks that arise
in the form of conflicts, project renegotiations, extreme modifications,
or write-offs from projects. The aim of this study is to propose
interactional analysis (IA) as a quantitative risk assessment (QRA)
methodology to analyse and govern the emergent risks associated with the
interactions in a system of systems (SoS), such as complex construction
projects. Therefore, interactions are framed as the coupling of actors,
and their associated emergent dynamics are quantified based on the
equilibria of the interaction. Risk mitigation policies are then developed
and analysed based on the associated interactional elements and
mathematical functions. Policymakers can apply the methodology to develop
policies and gauge their effectiveness in governance of the emergent
dynamics within interactional contexts to overcome the challenges
associated with infrastructure development.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1222-1237
Issue: 12
Volume: 32
Year: 2014
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.980835
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.980835
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:32:y:2014:i:12:p:1222-1237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jenni Korpela
Author-X-Name-First: Jenni
Author-X-Name-Last: Korpela
Author-Name: Reijo Miettinen
Author-X-Name-First: Reijo
Author-X-Name-Last: Miettinen
Author-Name: Teppo Salmikivi
Author-X-Name-First: Teppo
Author-X-Name-Last: Salmikivi
Author-Name: Jaana Ihalainen
Author-X-Name-First: Jaana
Author-X-Name-Last: Ihalainen
Title: The challenges and potentials of utilizing building information modelling in facility management: the case of the Center for Properties and Facilities of the University of Helsinki
Abstract:
Despite the promise of using building information modelling (BIM) during
the whole life cycle of a building, there are only few studies of the
actual uses of BIM and other information systems in facility management.
We contribute to the discussion by analysing the Center for Properties and
Facilities of the University of Helsinki. We ask (1) what kind of
information tools for facility management the maintenance personnel use;
(2) how the design data was handed over in the University's central
library project; and (3) how designers and facility managers find the
possibilities of integrating BIM models and maintenance information
systems. In the library project, the data was handed over and archived for
potential later use. The information for the maintenance manual, however,
was collected separately by an outside consultant. The designers thought
that models should be simplified to meet the needs of the maintenance. The
representatives of the Center did not see that uses of BIM models would
provide a significant added value in relation to the potential provided by
the maintenance information systems already in use. They found as a
possible next step the transfer of some information from BIM models to
their facility management and maintenance systems. A partial, stepwise
integration of the systems seems to be a realistic way forward.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-17
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1016540
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1016540
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:3-17
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Title: Improving the health of male, blue collar construction workers: a social ecological perspective
Abstract:
Construction workers are a high risk group for poor health and
occupational disability. A participatory action research (PAR) project was
undertaken at construction sites in Queensland, Australia. Using the PAR
framework, a needs-based health promotion planning model was implemented.
Health promotion measures were designed to address the 'SNAPO' health risk
factors (i.e. smoking, nutrition, alcohol consumption, insufficient
physical exercise and overweight/obesity). At the largest site
participating in the research, preliminary health assessments revealed
levels of physical health that were comparable with those of the general
Australian population. The construction workers' mental health was poorer
than that of the general Australian population. A consultation workshop
with a representative group of workers at the site identified healthy
eating, smoking cessation and physical exercise as priority areas for
intervention. Several health promotion measures addressing these issues
were implemented, including a quit smoking programme, a 'healthy options'
menu in the site canteen, healthy eating and cooking workshops and onsite
yoga and stretching sessions. A subset of workers at the site reported
their health behaviour in weekly 'logs'. The log data revealed
fluctuations in health behaviour over a 14-week period. Evaluation
interviews and a focus group revealed environmental impediments to the
adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviours. Workers identified the need to
provide a work environment that is supportive of healthy behaviour as
critical to the effectiveness of specific health promotion measures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 18-34
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.997259
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.997259
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:18-34
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yi Su
Author-X-Name-First: Yi
Author-X-Name-Last: Su
Author-Name: Gunnar Lucko
Author-X-Name-First: Gunnar
Author-X-Name-Last: Lucko
Title: Synthetic cash flow model with singularity functions for unbalanced bidding scenarios
Abstract:
Construction contractors may utilize unbalanced markup bidding strategies,
e.g. front-loading, to seek more beneficial cash flows, or even protect
their target profits. A difference between ethical and unethical
unbalanced bidding is whether the bid has been mathematically or even
materially modified: the former may be allowable, but the latter should be
rejected, as it fails to cover even the cost of later activities.
Unbalanced bidding adds to the complexity of cash flow models and requires
a new model that can calculate different scenarios accurately and
efficiently. Basic new theory is explored for unbalanced bidding in cash
flow models by employing the range-based class of singularity functions.
First, a new synthetic balanced cash flow model that can accurately
consider the time value of money (TVM) and retainage is derived to serve
as the foundation; second, various unbalanced markup functions including
two-phase, linear, and non-linear types are defined both cumulatively and
non-cumulatively; third, the performance of the extended synthetic cash
flow model for unbalanced bidding is investigated mathematically.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1012527
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1012527
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:35-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Author-Name: Dana Swissa
Author-X-Name-First: Dana
Author-X-Name-Last: Swissa
Author-Name: Gabriel Raviv
Author-X-Name-First: Gabriel
Author-X-Name-Last: Raviv
Author-Name: Wei Zhou
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhou
Author-Name: Aviad Shapira
Author-X-Name-First: Aviad
Author-X-Name-Last: Shapira
Title: Safety by design: dialogues between designers and builders using virtual reality
Abstract:
Designers can contribute to enhancing the safety of construction work by
considering how their decisions impact on both the physical environment in
which construction workers operate and the means and methods they use. To
do so, however, designers require knowledge about safety hazards on site
and the opportunity to examine their designs early in projects. Through a
set of studies virtual reality tools were used to examine the potential
for collaborative dialogue between designers and builders to provide a
forum for learning and proactive change of a design to make a project
safer to build. In the tests, participants viewed proposed designs using
virtual reality to examine various alternative design and construction
scenarios. The study shows that consultation and dialogue with an
experienced construction professional are highly beneficial for designers
to appreciate the implications of designs on safety, and that designers
are more willing to adapt design details than to change aesthetic aspects
of their designs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-72
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1029504
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1029504
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:55-72
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Peihua Zhang
Author-Name: Nick Blismas
Author-X-Name-First: Nick
Author-X-Name-Last: Blismas
Author-Name: Ron Wakefield
Author-X-Name-First: Ron
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakefield
Author-Name: Brian Kleiner
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Kleiner
Title: Are we on the same page? Exploring construction professionals' mental models of occupational health and safety
Abstract:
Photographic Q-methodology was used to explore construction professionals'
mental models of occupational health and safety (OHS). Sixty Australian
construction professionals participated in the research, including 15
architects, 15 engineers, 15 constructors and 15 OHS professionals.
Participants were asked to sort photographs depicting different building
systems into a grid based upon their judgement of the likelihood of
accidental injury resulting from the construction of each of the building
systems depicted. Responses ranged from Rare (-2) to Almost certain (+2).
Sorting patterns relating to eight photographs of different fa �ade
systems were analysed using Q factor analysis. Three distinct sorting
pattern types were identified in the data, representing clusters of
participants whose sorting patterns were similar. These sorting pattern
types cut across occupational/professional groups. Interpretation of the
factors revealed substantial differences between the OHS judgements made
by participants in the three clusters. Qualitative explanatory information
revealed participants in the three clusters used different attributes when
considering the likelihood of accidental injury. These attributes shaped
their sorting patterns. The results suggest shared mental models (SMMs)
are unlikely to exist in construction project teams, as each individual
uses their own frame of reference to understand OHS. Opportunities exist
to understand these different frames of reference and create more
consistent team mental models of OHS. However, incorporating a diversity
of viewpoints into project decision-making is recommended in order to
produce effective decision-making in the choice or specification of
building systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 73-84
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1016541
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1016541
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:73-84
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michaela Schaffhauser-Linzatti
Author-X-Name-First: Michaela
Author-X-Name-Last: Schaffhauser-Linzatti
Title: People and Organizational Management in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 85-89
Issue: 1
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2014.993411
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2014.993411
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:1:p:85-89
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: A festschrift for Graham Ive
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-105
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1039044
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1039044
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:91-105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graham M. Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Project organizing as a problem in information
Abstract:
One of the most influential perspectives in business and management has
been the Carnegie School, represented by such luminaries as James March,
Hebert Simon, Oliver Williamson and Zur Shapira. The perspective underpins
much of contemporary organization theory and organizational economics. Yet
there have only been limited attempts to apply it to the domain of
construction economics and management. An important exception to this
statement is the application of Williamson's transaction cost economics to
the governance of inter-firm relations in construction, but the
opportunity is presently being missed for a more thorough-going
application. The aim, therefore, is to suggest what such an application
might look like and why it might be useful in stimulating new lines of
research enquiry. The principal tenets of the Carnegie School are
examined, as well as the central role of uncertainty and bounded
rationality in those tenets. The contributions to organization theory of
the Carnegie School are drawn upon to conceptualize project organizing as
a problem in information, and suggest a new perspective on the
microfoundations for that theory.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 106-116
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1021703
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1021703
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:106-116
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: GÖran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: GÖran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Author-Name: Gerard de Valence
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: de Valence
Title: A critique of the methodology of building economics: trust the theories
Abstract:
Ive's most important contribution to good research was his promotion of
existing theories and in particular, the use of the firm rather than the
project, as the primary analytical unit. It is suggested that the current
standard of research in building economics is poor, and that the failure
to use existing theories shares a considerable responsibility for this
problem. The predominance of poorly conceived and executed research has
put us into a position where the conclusions of 80% of published research
papers across the social sciences (which includes building economics)
should probably be reversed because of poor methodology, research design
and analysis. Peer review, rather than being one of the cornerstones of
self-correcting science, is particularly problematic in building economics
as it serves to isolate us from external monitoring. Replication, the
second cornerstone of good science, has more or less disappeared from our
journals as it's not considered prestigious. The end result is that there
is no real quality control at the same time as quantity has become
increasingly important for resource allocations and academic positions,
seriously overextending the system for publications. The only way back to
good research is to stop experimenting with fashionable but unsound
methodologies and return to tried and tested theories and methodologies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 117-125
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1028955
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1028955
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:117-125
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard de Valence
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard
Author-X-Name-Last: de Valence
Author-Name: Goran Runeson
Author-X-Name-First: Goran
Author-X-Name-Last: Runeson
Title: Graham Ive and the methodology of construction economics
Abstract:
Graham Ive's central contribution to our methodological debate was his
insistence on the firm as the analytical unit. Ive argues we should reject
theories if the aspect of construction we are examining does not satisfy
the assumptions of a particular theoretical model. We see this in his
rejection of neoclassical economic theories in the two topics discussed in
this paper: the adoption of innovations in construction; and microeconomic
analysis as it relates to price determination in the market for
construction. The former requires studying not just participants in the
building process, but also participants in the innovation process, and the
latter uses post-Keynesian pricing theory where prices are set according
to mark-up procedures and vary with costs, but not directly with demand.
This is in contrast to the general equilibrium, perfectly competitive
price setting of neoclassical economics. Ive and his collaborators show a
way towards better research in their emphasis on theory and the insistence
that for construction economics the analytical units are the industry and
the firm, not the project. Ive's concern is that the processes involved in
organizing the production of buildings should be seen as a distinctive and
defining element of our analysis of the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 126-133
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1021702
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1021702
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:126-133
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tullio Gregori
Author-X-Name-First: Tullio
Author-X-Name-Last: Gregori
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Title: An input-output analysis of the construction sector in emerging markets
Abstract:
Construction is a major industry in fast growing countries and plays a
leading role in the process of economic development. Using input-output
tables, the performance of the construction sector in six emerging
countries (Brazil, Russia, India, Indonesia, China and South Africa) is
compared from 1995 to 2005. First, the construction performance in these
developing economies, by using standard indicators based on value added,
gross output, final demand and intermediate inputs, is investigated. Then,
the similarity cosine index is introduced to assess structural change and
differences in input expenditures between countries. This index is a
useful tool for identifying input bundles that require a probing
international comparison of construction performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 134-145
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1021704
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1021704
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:134-145
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Connaughton
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Connaughton
Author-Name: Jim Meikle
Author-X-Name-First: Jim
Author-X-Name-Last: Meikle
Author-Name: Satu Teerikangas
Author-X-Name-First: Satu
Author-X-Name-Last: Teerikangas
Title: Mergers, acquisitions and the evolution of construction professional services firms
Abstract:
Whilst mergers and acquisitions are a favoured means of strategic renewal
and expansion for firms, scant academic attention has been given to the
growth patterns of construction professional services firms (CPSFs). The
role of mergers and acquisitions in the evolution of CPSFs is examined.
The findings are based on an analysis of the growth patterns of the top 25
CPSFs in the United Kingdom between 1988 and 2013. Since the 1990s, the
increase in merger and acquisition activity has shaped the size,
international presence, and multidisciplinary reach of the major CPSFs.
However, CPSFs differ with respect to the intensity with which mergers and
acquisitions are pursued. Whilst large, public limited companies are
active acquirers, smaller and/or privately owned firms succeed in growing
with a more selective acquisitive strategy, as they tend to rely more on
organic growth. The findings call construction economists to attend to how
acquisitions are radically changing the construction landscape and its
main players. As the competitive advantage of firms is increasingly human
capital-based, the example of the privately owned CPSFs that rely on
organic modes of growth prompts a critical rethink of the role of mergers
and acquisitions in firm growth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 146-159
Issue: 2
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1037325
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1037325
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:2:p:146-159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tarja M�ki
Author-X-Name-First: Tarja
Author-X-Name-Last: M�ki
Author-Name: Hannele Kerosuo
Author-X-Name-First: Hannele
Author-X-Name-Last: Kerosuo
Title: Site managers' daily work and the uses of building information modelling in construction site management
Abstract:
The use of building information modelling (BIM) and related software tools
is increasingly expanding in the work of site managers in construction
projects. The early uses of BIM in the actual tasks of site managers are
explored by examining the utilization of BIM in their work and the
challenges in the deployment of the new digital tools for traditional
project collaboration. The ethnographic method of the study consists of
shadowing the site managers' work. The site managers actively used BIM and
found it beneficial for their daily work. However, the use of BIM in
construction sites is still limited because only a few managers have the
competence to use BIM software tools, mobile tools are lacking, and the
information content of the models needed for construction work is
insufficient.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 163-175
Issue: 3
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1028953
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1028953
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:3:p:163-175
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Will Chancellor
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Chancellor
Author-Name: Malcolm Abbott
Author-X-Name-First: Malcolm
Author-X-Name-Last: Abbott
Title: The Australian construction industry: is the shadow economy distorting productivity?
Abstract:
Estimates of the size and change in the Australian construction industry
shadow economy value over time are provided and applied as a quality
adjustment to Australian construction industry productivity growth from
1985 to 2012. The results indicate that the Australian construction
industry shadow economy is growing and that by adjusting for the shadow
economy, distortion is removed from construction industry productivity
growth estimates. The findings create significant scope for future
research into the estimation and the effect of shadow economic activity on
productivity growth, not just in Australia but in other countries as well.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 176-186
Issue: 3
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1028954
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1028954
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:3:p:176-186
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Effah Ernest Ameyaw
Author-X-Name-First: Effah Ernest
Author-X-Name-Last: Ameyaw
Author-Name: Albert P.C. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Albert P.C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Risk allocation in public-private partnership water supply projects in Ghana
Abstract:
Appropriate risk allocation (RA) between public and private sectors
according to their risk management (RM) capabilities is crucial for the
success of public-private partnership (PPP) projects. The RA process in
PPP water projects is examined, and a methodology based on fuzzy set
theory is outlined with RA principles that can be used by public-private
participants to arrive at fair RA decisions. Empirical data based on an
industry-wide three-round Delphi questionnaire survey is used in this
study to outline the methodology. The fuzzy set theory is employed for the
RA analysis because it deals well with the complex multi-criteria problem
of, and precisely accounts for the fuzziness inherent in human cognitive
process that characterize, RA decision-making. Five risk factors are
evaluated on each RA principle, analysed and assigned between the public
and private sectors. The results show that it is appropriate to allocate
risks according to both sectors' RM capability to manage them, using
established RA principles and fuzzy set theory. The methodology renders
the decision-making process more systematic and practical because the
fuzzy theory approach allows decision makers to express their evaluations
of both sectors' RM capabilities in descriptive qualitative terms. The
results should assist public clients to establish efficient RA strategies
and develop balanced RA schemes for PPP contracts, with a view to
achieving a mutually acceptable RA with the private sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 187-208
Issue: 3
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1031148
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1031148
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:3:p:187-208
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martina E. Murphy
Author-X-Name-First: Martina E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Murphy
Author-Name: Srinath Perera
Author-X-Name-First: Srinath
Author-X-Name-Last: Perera
Author-Name: George Heaney
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Heaney
Title: Innovation management model: a tool for sustained implementation of product innovation into construction projects
Abstract:
Technological advancement and demand for economic growth are driving
product innovation in the construction industry. However there is concern
that the industry lacks the mechanisms to effectively implement new
products. Recent studies have developed a method for identifying and
evaluating the risks which impact on new technology adoption and two
constructs were generated for improving implementation rates. The aim is
to investigate whether the constructs can be integrated to develop a
practical tool for use by project stakeholders desirous to generate
innovation. Process modelling, statistical analysis and failure mode and
effect analysis are used to align the constructs into a test model (TM).
Three rounds of Delphi gain a consensus on the TM outputs and the results
produce the innovation management model (IMM). The IMM is a simple process
flowchart which establishes the prioritized sequence of stakeholder
activities required to implement a new technology at key stages in the
project process. The IMM has implications for selection of procurement
methods and will instil confidence in stakeholders to adopt new
technologies. Additionally it provides a risk-based approach for
stakeholder competency mapping and for sustaining product innovation in
construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 209-232
Issue: 3
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1031684
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1031684
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:3:p:209-232
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chen-Yu Chang
Author-X-Name-First: Chen-Yu
Author-X-Name-Last: Chang
Title: The Economics of Public-Private Partnerships: A Basic Guide
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 233-238
Issue: 3
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1050965
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1050965
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:3:p:233-238
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farook R. Hamzeh
Author-X-Name-First: Farook R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamzeh
Author-Name: Emile Zankoul
Author-X-Name-First: Emile
Author-X-Name-Last: Zankoul
Author-Name: Carel Rouhana
Author-X-Name-First: Carel
Author-X-Name-Last: Rouhana
Title: How can 'tasks made ready' during lookahead planning impact reliable workflow and project duration?
Abstract:
The goal of lookahead planning is to make a plan more realistic as
construction tasks move closer to execution. To improve the reliability of
lookahead planning, the construction industry has benefited from
implementing the Last Planner-super-® System (LPS) which emphasizes
improved workflow during construction. Lookahead planning involves
transforming work that 'should be done' into work that 'can be done'. This
is accomplished by breaking down activities into the level of operations,
designing operations, and making tasks ready by removing task constraints.
The purpose of this research is to study, through computer simulation, the
relationship between improving tasks made ready (TMR) in lookahead
planning and the reliability of weekly work planning expressed as percent
plan complete (PPC) and their impact on project duration. Results show
that a high TMR can result in a reduced project duration but the same
cannot be said about PPC, making a case for TMR serving as a better
indicator for project duration than PPC.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 243-258
Issue: 4
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1047878
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1047878
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:4:p:243-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-P�rez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-P�rez
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Eugenio Pellicer
Author-X-Name-First: Eugenio
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellicer
Author-Name: M. Carmen Gonz�lez-Cruz
Author-X-Name-First: M. Carmen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gonz�lez-Cruz
Title: Scoring rules and abnormally low bids criteria in construction tenders: a taxonomic review
Abstract:
In the global construction context, the best value or most economically
advantageous tender is becoming a widespread approach for contractor
selection, as an alternative to other traditional awarding criteria such
as the lowest price. In these multi-attribute tenders, the owner or
auctioneer solicits proposals containing both a price bid and additional
technical features. Once the proposals are received, each bidder's price
bid is given an economic score according to a scoring rule, generally
called an economic scoring formula (ESF) and a technical score according
to pre-specified criteria. Eventually, the contract is awarded to the
bidder with the highest weighted overall score
(economic + technical). However, economic scoring formula
selection by auctioneers is invariably and paradoxically a highly
intuitive process in practice, involving few theoretical or empirical
considerations, despite having been considered traditionally and
mistakenly as objective, due to its mathematical nature. This paper
provides a taxonomic classification of a wide variety of ESFs and
abnormally low bids criteria (ALBC) gathered in several countries with
different tendering approaches. Practical implications concern the optimal
design of price scoring rules in construction contract tenders, as well as
future analyses of the effects of the ESF and ALBC on competitive bidding
behaviour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-278
Issue: 4
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1059951
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1059951
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:4:p:259-278
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Benjamin Herazo
Author-X-Name-First: Benjamin
Author-X-Name-Last: Herazo
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Title: The influence of green building certifications in collaboration and innovation processes
Abstract:
While the paradigm of sustainable development has largely influenced
architecture projects worldwide, Green Building Certifications (GBCs) have
become the new (increasingly mandatory) standard of project performance.
Numerous studies have concentrated on the influence of sustainable
development (SD) in the final product: the building. However, more
research is still needed in order to understand how GBCs have influenced
building processes, particularly collaboration and innovation within
architecture projects. In order to fill this gap, this study presents
results from 19 interviews with professionals in the built environment and
examines three architecture projects conducted in Canada that received a
widely popular GBC and were significantly influenced by SD principles
during the design and building process. The research applies recent
frameworks for exploring stakeholders' interests on GBCs and the
collaboration and innovation practices developed by them. Research results
show that processes within these projects are shaped by at least four
tensions that can either enhance or hinder collaboration and innovation:
strategic-tactical, collaborative-competitive, participative-effective and
individual-collective. The study highlights the importance of
understanding GBC as a process and not only as a final outcome, and thus,
to better manage these tensions so that they contribute to product and
process performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 279-298
Issue: 4
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1047879
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1047879
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:4:p:279-298
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jessica Kaminsky
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaminsky
Title: The fourth pillar of infrastructure sustainability: tailoring civil infrastructure to social context
Abstract:
This research proposes technical performance over time as a fourth pillar
of sustainability theory for infrastructure. It also describes a method
that allows us to discover how changes in the technical pillar
(operationalized as reduced breakage rates) may moderate the influence of
the social pillar (operationalized as repair rates) on sanitation
infrastructure outcomes. Oral histories were used to develop a history of
sanitation for each of 152 poor households in four rural communities in
Bangladesh that have gained access to sanitation in the past decade.
Transcriptions and qualitative coding identified reported states of
sanitation (for example, broken vs. functional) at three time steps. These
were used to develop an initial vector and transition matrix for a Markov
chain analysis. The breakage rate in this model was then adjusted to
investigate the impact of improved technical durability on sanitation
outcomes. For the case analysed here, we found that increasing
infrastructure durability by 50% (an estimated increase of two years)
increased the rate of functional sanitation system use at model
convergence from 54% to 88%. Increases in durability also caused
households to use private rather than shared systems. Beyond this specific
case, the generalizable theory and method presented here are analytic
tools that permit targeted technical accommodation of social contexts
specific to individual project sites.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 299-309
Issue: 4
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1050425
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1050425
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:4:p:299-309
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: B. Lim
Author-X-Name-First: B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Title: Inter-organizational unfairness in the construction industry
Abstract:
There are numerous examples of unfair inter-organizational business
practices in the construction industry. Conflict and confrontation,
corruption, bid-shopping, insecurity of payment and supply chain
exploitation are just some examples which have been documented over
several decades in many countries. There have been numerous initiatives to
make the construction industry a fairer business environment, but these
have been largely developed in a conceptual vacuum. Consequently, few
advances have been made in making the industry a fairer place to do
business. To address the lack of theory in this area and provide a
conceptual foundation for future improvement, theories of organizational
justice were used as the basis for a survey of 135 consultants,
contractors, subcontractors and suppliers from across the Australian
construction supply chain. The findings reveal that mainstream theories of
justice may need refinement and reorganization to be applied to a
construction industry context. Furthermore, in contrast to much previous
research, the results indicate that levels of interpersonal, social and
informational justice are high within the Australian construction
industry. However, they also show that more can be done to improve levels
of procedural and distributive justice, particularly in relation to
subcontractors and suppliers in the construction supply chain. Many of
these findings are transferable to other countries which are culturally,
contractually and organizationally similar to the Australian construction
industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 310-326
Issue: 4
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1057193
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1057193
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:4:p:310-326
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Author-Name: Simon Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Conference issue: 30th Annual ARCOM Conference
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 329-333
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1080905
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1080905
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:329-333
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matilda H��k
Author-X-Name-First: Matilda
Author-X-Name-Last: H��k
Author-Name: Lars Stehn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Stehn
Author-Name: Staffan Brege
Author-X-Name-First: Staffan
Author-X-Name-Last: Brege
Title: The development of a portfolio of business models: a longitudinal case study of a building material company
Abstract:
Dynamic aspects of intended company change can be related to the
development and management of a portfolio of business models with regard
to competence deployment and to performance. A portfolio of business
models is seen as a reflection of the realized strategy of a company, and
the dynamics aspects of company change are connected to internal and
external critical strategic incidents. The business model elements
considered in this research are market position, offering, and operational
platform enabling a differentiation between strategic and operational
effectiveness. The evolution of a Swedish supplier of building components
and systems during a 15-year period is examined. The process data consists
of temporal phases where a shift of phase is defined as a change of a
specific portfolio of business models. The concept of a portfolio of
business models helped to discover new and conflicting standardized or
customized business models that were not always intended by the company.
The findings indicate that unawareness of intended actions led to
unintended allocation of resources or integration mechanisms that
negatively affected company performance. On the other hand gains can be
achieved if a strategy is deliberately managed as a portfolio of business
models which then also can be a tool for managing change in a company.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 334-348
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1075052
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1075052
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:334-348
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Philippa Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: Philippa
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Author-Name: Graeme D. Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Author-Name: Libby Schweber
Author-X-Name-First: Libby
Author-X-Name-Last: Schweber
Title: The co-development of technology and new buildings: incorporating building integrated photovoltaics
Abstract:
Current approaches for the reduction of carbon emissions in buildings are
often predicated on the integration of renewable technologies into
building projects. Building integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is one of
these technologies and brings its own set of challenges and problems with
a resulting mutual articulation of this technology and the building. A
Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) approach explores how
negotiations between informal groups of project actors with shared
interests shape the ongoing specification of both BIPV and the building.
Six main groups with different interests were found to be involved in the
introduction of BIPV (Cost Watchers, Design Aesthetes, Green Guardians,
Design Optimizers, Generation Maximizers and Users). Their involvement
around three sets of issues (design changes from lack of familiarity with
the technology, misunderstandings from unfamiliar interdependencies of
trades and the effects of standard firm procedure) is followed. Findings
underline how BIPV requires a level of integration that typically spans
different work packages and how standard contractual structures inhibit
the smooth incorporation of BIPV. Successful implementation is marked by
ongoing (re-)design of both the building and the technology as informal
fluid groups of project actors with shared interests address the
succession of problems which arise in the process of implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 349-360
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1074262
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1074262
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:349-360
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Martin Crapper
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Crapper
Author-Name: Lydia Foster-Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Lydia
Author-X-Name-Last: Foster-Smith
Author-Name: Sinead Walsh
Author-X-Name-First: Sinead
Author-X-Name-Last: Walsh
Title: Safety and volunteer construction workers
Abstract:
The construction industry is dangerous, with 39 fatalities at work in the
UK in 2012/13 and comparable and even larger figures reported worldwide.
People also take part in construction on a voluntary basis; most
volunteers have limited training and no technical qualification, whilst
safety regulation frameworks range from being comparable to professional
sectors to zero regulation in some international contexts. Unstructured
interviews were undertaken with volunteer construction workers from two
areas: those returning from international development projects and those
regularly volunteering on UK heritage railways. Taking a social
constructionist perspective, data was explored using discourse analysis to
illuminate 'safety' within this unique construction 'industry'. Those with
engineering or technical backgrounds developed more tangible constructions
of safety, around risks and hazards, within their activities, yet
volunteers without this experience also acknowledged a wider context of
danger. Volunteers on overseas projects developed discourses of
'difference' between safety at home and safety outside the UK, associated
with negative practices overseas yet with acceptance of their
inevitability as part of the voluntary experience. Further work is
proposed to determine whether these insights can contribute to improved
safety management within the voluntary construction context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 361-374
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1024269
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1024269
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:361-374
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Natalie Galea
Author-X-Name-First: Natalie
Author-X-Name-Last: Galea
Author-Name: Abigail Powell
Author-X-Name-First: Abigail
Author-X-Name-Last: Powell
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Louise Chappell
Author-X-Name-First: Louise
Author-X-Name-Last: Chappell
Title: Designing robust and revisable policies for gender equality: lessons from the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
The construction industry remains the most male dominated sector in
Australia. Several decades of formal gender equality initiatives by
government and business have failed to bring about any meaningful change
to the hierarchical and numerical representation of women in the sector.
Drawing on new institutionalism, particularly the concepts of 'robustness'
and 'revisability', the nature and intent of formal policies and programs
that impact on gender equality are analysed in two large Australian
multinational construction firms. Through in-depth interviews with senior
management and a document analysis of formal policies, it is concluded
that gender equality initiatives and broader policies are primarily
focused on increasing the numbers of women in construction rather than
addressing gender practices and outcomes. These policies lack many of the
qualities of robustness and revisability, which impacts on their capacity
to genuinely challenge the gendered norms, practices and narratives of the
sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 375-389
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1042887
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1042887
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:375-389
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jonathan Gosling
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gosling
Author-Name: Mohamed Naim
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Naim
Author-Name: Denis Towill
Author-X-Name-First: Denis
Author-X-Name-Last: Towill
Author-Name: Wessam Abouarghoub
Author-X-Name-First: Wessam
Author-X-Name-Last: Abouarghoub
Author-Name: Brian Moone
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Moone
Title: Supplier development initiatives and their impact on the consistency of project performance
Abstract:
Many empirical studies exploring the impact of supply chain management on
performance metrics have been undertaken in the manufacturing and retail
sectors, espousing the positive outcomes attainable. Owing to a range of
industry characteristics, some have questioned the effectiveness of such
initiatives in the construction sector, and it has been noted that there
is a lack of longitudinal empirical data in this setting. Exploiting a
unique performance dataset gathered from a global construction company's
archival records (1990-2013), the following question is addressed: 'what
is the impact of supplier development initiatives on key performance
indicators (KPIs) in a construction supply chain?'. Mobilizing established
frameworks on relationship types and supplier development initiatives,
suppliers are organized into relational categories, including 'strategic
partners', 'preferred' and 'approved' suppliers. A combination of
descriptive statistics, ANOVA and Levene's tests was used to analyse the
data. The findings report a significant difference between the volatility
of performance between different groups. The higher the level of
partnership in the relational category, the more consistency there will be
in performance. Suppliers in the approved category perform less well on
the 'closeout' KPI, suggesting a need for initiatives with this category
to help raise performance on closeout issues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 390-403
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1028956
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1028956
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:390-403
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin L�wstedt
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: L�wstedt
Title: 'Taking off my glasses in order to see': exploring practice on a building site using self-reflexive ethnography
Abstract:
There has recently been a growing interest for ethnographic studies in
construction, predicated upon the belief that ethnographic research in the
construction industry can provide a powerful way of illuminating
construction practices in new ways. Focusing on the ethnographic method,
it is demonstrated how a self-reflexive ethnography can contribute to a
deeper understanding of the variations, contradictions and tensions
underlying practices on a building site, thereby serving as a complement
to other qualitative approaches. A short four-week ethnographic study
illustrates how the subjective 'I' of the ethnographer can be used as an
active producer of knowledge, by reflecting on how insights from an
individual's role, both as an observer and as a worker, can account for
the complex interplay between socialities and materialities on a building
site. The results also contribute to the discussion regarding the length
of ethnographic studies, by showing how valuable insights can be drawn
from shorter 'ethnographic episodes', studied through a self-reflexive
lens.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 404-414
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1066021
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1066021
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:404-414
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dennis O'Keeffe
Author-X-Name-First: Dennis
Author-X-Name-Last: O'Keeffe
Author-Name: Derek Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Evaluating the design of hospitals within a practice order network
Abstract:
Design evaluation is a complex and rich social practice that is organized
and distinguished by its practical understandings, rules, general
understandings and teleoaffective structures. This praxiographic study of
a major National Health Service (NHS) hospital project uses practice
theory to investigate the concept of design evaluation as 'a practice'. By
applying Theodore Schatzki's site ontology, design evaluation practices
are revealed to respond to dynamic teleoaffective structures that
highlight the role of both practical intelligibility and the intertwined
impact of external policy stipulations. Through this theoretical lens,
fresh insight into the actuality of NHS hospital design evaluation praxis
is provided that questions some of the axioms upon which such processes
are assumed to operate. In particular, the appropriateness of the
decontextualized and deterministic processes currently found in UK
government design policy is questioned. It is posited that an approach to
design evaluation grounded in Schatzki's practice theory has greater
potential to improve the design quality of NHS healthcare buildings that
could, in turn, improve patient healthcare outcomes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 415-427
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1072639
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1072639
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:415-427
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lone Seboni
Author-X-Name-First: Lone
Author-X-Name-Last: Seboni
Author-Name: Apollo Tutesigensi
Author-X-Name-First: Apollo
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutesigensi
Title: Project manager-to-project allocations in practice: an empirical study of the decision-making practices of a multi-project based organization
Abstract:
Empirical studies that examine how managers make project
manager-to-project (PM2P) allocation decisions in multi-project settings
are currently limited. Such decisions are crucial to organizational
success. An empirical study of the PM2P practice, conducted in the context
of Botswana, revealed ineffective processes in terms of optimality in
decision-making. A conceptual model to guide effective PM2P practices was
developed. The focus of this study is on deploying the model as a lens to
study the PM2P practices of a large organization, with a view to
identifying and illustrating strengths and weaknesses. A case study was
undertaken in the mining industry, where core activities in terms of
projects are underground mineral explorations at identified geographical
regions. A semi-structured interview protocol was used to collect data
from 15 informants, using an enumeration. Integrated analysis of both data
types (using univariate descriptive analysis for the quantitative data,
content and thematic analysis for the qualitative data) revealed strengths
in PM2P practices, demonstrated by informants' recognition of some
important criteria to be considered. The key weaknesses were exemplified
by a lack of effective management tools and techniques to match project
managers to projects. The findings provide a novel perspective through
which improvements in working practices can be made.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 428-443
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1077981
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1077981
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:428-443
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Title: Legitimizing public health control on sites? A critical discourse analysis of the Responsibility Deal Construction Pledge
Abstract:
As part of a wider programme, the UK Department of Health produced a
Responsibility Deal Construction Pledge, seeking organizational commitment
in improving the health of its workforce. Yet commercial involvement with
the health of the worker beyond the workplace is a contentious issue, a
fundamental challenge to personal freedoms. The exercise of this
paternalistic or pastoral power should be questioned, and consequently the
agendas and interests behind it have been explored through a critical
discourse analysis of the press release of the Pledge. Workers' inability
to make the 'right' decisions about their health was used as justification
for corporate intervention to guide workers to their 'true' interests and
the 'right' choices. The occupational health of individual construction
workers on sites was negated for their wider contributions as a workforce
to industry and the UK economy. Whilst the real interests of construction
workers are likely to be served by a balance of good health and work, this
should not be dictated by government, much less commercial organizations
with vested interests in worker output. Concerns are raised for workers'
health and well-being in terms of their fundamental autonomy, and an
increasingly controlled relationship between productive activities and
power relations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 444-452
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1013045
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1013045
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:444-452
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amna Shibeika
Author-X-Name-First: Amna
Author-X-Name-Last: Shibeika
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Diffusion of digital innovation in construction: a case study of a UK engineering firm
Abstract:
The UK government is mandating the use of building information modelling
(BIM) in large public projects by 2016. As a result, engineering firms are
faced with challenges related to embedding new technologies and associated
working practices for the digital delivery of major infrastructure
projects. Diffusion of innovations theory is used to investigate how
digital innovations diffuse across complex firms. A contextualist approach
is employed through an in-depth case study of a large, international
engineering project-based firm. The analysis of the empirical data, which
was collected over a four-year period of close interaction with the firm,
reveals parallel paths of diffusion occurring across the firm, where both
the innovation and the firm context were continually changing. The
diffusion process is traced over three phases: centralization of
technology management, standardization of digital working practices, and
globalization of digital resources. The findings describe the diffusion of
a digital innovation as multiple and partial within a complex social
system during times of change and organizational uncertainty, thereby
contributing to diffusion of innovations studies in construction by
showing a range of activities and dynamics of a non-linear diffusion
process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 453-466
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1077982
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1077982
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:453-466
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Serdar Ulubeyli
Author-X-Name-First: Serdar
Author-X-Name-Last: Ulubeyli
Author-Name: Volkan Arslan
Author-X-Name-First: Volkan
Author-X-Name-Last: Arslan
Author-Name: Serkan Kivrak
Author-X-Name-First: Serkan
Author-X-Name-Last: Kivrak
Title: A semiotic analysis of cartoons about occupational health and safety issues in the construction workplace
Abstract:
The construction industry in developed and developing countries is almost
always among industries with poor safety records. In decreasing the
numbers of safety incidents, society's perception of construction workers,
who are the central part of the occupational health and safety issue, can
be an important learning tool for these workers in terms of
self-criticism. Therefore, society's perception of the responsibility of
workers for occupational health and safety is presented by means of
cartoons. For this objective, seven cartoons exhibited in the
International Construction Accidents Cartoon Contest held in Turkey are
examined through the General Theory of Verbal Humour, a semiotic analysis
method. As the main finding, construction-based occupational health and
safety perceptions of countries were found not to change significantly.
Consequently, these results can have a function in guiding workers and
worker unions to revise and manage the general perception of society about
them. Moreover, such cartoons can be used as a lingua franca for
occupational health and safety training in international construction
projects where multinational migrant workers are employed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 467-483
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1024270
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1024270
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:467-483
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anders Viking
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Viking
Author-Name: Sofia Lidel�w
Author-X-Name-First: Sofia
Author-X-Name-Last: Lidel�w
Title: Exploring industrialized housebuilders' interpretations of local requirements using institutional logics
Abstract:
Industrialized housebuilding contractors use standardized processes and
building systems to improve time and cost efficiency. Recent governmental
investigations argue that Swedish local planning authorities' requirement
setting practices stifle the potential for increased industrialization.
Yet, no previous research has accounted for the industrialized
housebuilders' perspective. We aim to explore industrialized
housebuilders' interpretations of local requirement setting, using
institutional logics to increase the understanding of how structure and
human agency influence the emergence of local requirements. Interviews
were conducted with representatives of five industrialized housebuilders
who together span the Swedish multi-family housing market. Findings
indicate that industrialized housebuilders do not perceive intentional
local requirement setting as problematic, yet struggle to cope with
interpretive local requirement setting. Findings also necessitate
distinguishing local requirement setting in the exercise of public
authority from local requirement setting in public procurement. The agency
structure dualism contributes an understanding of interpretive local
requirement setting in the exercise of public authority as an expression
of agency and of local requirement setting in public procurement as one of
structure. Furthermore, using an institutional logics approach is found to
provide an accentuation of human agency and the individual level of
analysis that is often absent from construction management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 484-494
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1050966
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1050966
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:484-494
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bo Xiong
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Xiong
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Bo Xia
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Xia
Title: Exploring and validating the internal dimensions of occupational stress: evidence from construction cost estimators in China
Abstract:
A recurring feature of modern practice is occupational stress of project
professionals, with debilitating effects on the people concerned and
indirectly affecting project success. Previous research outside the
construction industry has involved the use of a psychology perceived
stress questionnaire (PSQ) to measure occupational stress, resulting in
the identification of one stressor, demand, and three
sub-dimensional emotional reactions in terms of worry,
tension and joy. The PSQ is translated
into Chinese with a back translation technique and used in a survey of
young construction cost professionals in China. Principal component
analysis and confirmatory factor analysis are used to test the
divisibility of occupational stress, little mentioned in previous research
on stress in the construction context. In addition, structural equation
modelling is used to assess nomological validity by testing the effects of
the three dimensions on organizational commitment, the main finding of
which is that lack of joy has the sole significant
effect. The three-dimensional measurement framework facilitates the
standardizing measurement of occupational stress. Further research will
establish whether the findings are also applicable in other settings and
explore the relations between stress dimensions and other managerial
concepts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 495-507
Issue: 5-6
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1050967
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1050967
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:5-6:p:495-507
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Kokkonen
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Kokkonen
Author-Name: Pauli Alin
Author-X-Name-First: Pauli
Author-X-Name-Last: Alin
Title: Practice-based learning in construction projects: a literature review
Abstract:
Construction project managers often face problems when trying to change
work practices. Management research addresses these problems by offering
stylized and abstract models; unfortunately, they may say little about the
actual work practices that managers want to change. Practice theory offers
an alternative way to address practice-related managerial problems,
arguing that learning is a central enabler of performing practices. While
some early research on practice-based learning in construction management
exists, an understanding of how this theory has been applied is lacking.
To address this limitation, a systematic literature review of 15 published
construction management articles was conducted, the articles being divided
into five practice-related analytical categories:
participation, context, meaning
production, power and becoming a
practitioner to identify the areas of theory discussed.
Participation and context were discussed more in the published articles
than meaning production, power and becoming a practitioner, which might
suggest that the latter categories offer more possibilities for future
research. Further, the articles were analysed through a Lakatosian
research programme lens, showing that a progressive research programme
exists in practice-based studies in construction management. These
findings provide avenues for future construction management studies
seeking to apply practice-based learning theory to understand learning in
construction projects better.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 513-530
Issue: 7
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1062903
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1062903
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:7:p:513-530
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yuvraj Gajpal
Author-X-Name-First: Yuvraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Gajpal
Author-Name: Ashraf Elazouni
Author-X-Name-First: Ashraf
Author-X-Name-Last: Elazouni
Title: Enhanced heuristic for finance-based scheduling of construction projects
Abstract:
Typically, construction contractors operate under cash-constrained
operating conditions. The lag between the time when contractors spend
money to accomplish work on site and the time when payments are actually
made by clients, which partially compensate contractors for the
accomplished work, constantly creates a finance deficit. Contractors often
supplement finance deficits using external funds procured through
establishing credit-line bank accounts which typically allow contractors
to withdraw cash up to specified credit limits. This makes the task of
project scheduling considering the constraints of specified finance very
important for financial and operational planning. This scheduling concept
and technique are referred to as finance-based scheduling. An enhanced
heuristic is proposed to devise finance-based schedules of multiple
projects within contractors' portfolios. The enhancement is achieved by
replacing the exhaustive enumeration technique employed in the heuristic
to specify activities' start times with a polynomial shifting algorithm.
This enhancement resulted in a substantial reduction in the number of
solutions explored before a feasible solution is encountered. The enhanced
heuristic was validated through comparison with the integer programming
technique using 240 problems of randomly generated networks of sizes that
range from 30 to 240 activities. Further, it was proved that the enhanced
heuristic can be easily scaled up to handle portfolios of multiple
large-size projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 531-553
Issue: 7
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1063676
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1063676
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:7:p:531-553
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Lind
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Lind
Author-Name: Fredrik Brunes
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Brunes
Title: Explaining cost overruns in infrastructure projects: a new framework with applications to Sweden
Abstract:
The aim is to both develop a new theory-based framework for analysing cost
overruns, and to use this for an empirical study of cost overruns in
infrastructure projects in Sweden. The conceptual part is based on a
literature review and the empirical part is primarily based on a
questionnaire to project managers. The framework has a descriptive part
comprising two dimensions: when, during the process, the cost overrun
arose and what part of the cost function was responsible: change in the
product, change in quantities of the inputs and change in price of inputs.
The explanatory part is a development of Flyvbjerg's theories and
identifies four possible explanations: political/strategic aspects,
psychological aspects, competence-related aspects and bad luck. The result
from the empirical study is that most cost overruns occur in the
initiation and planning stages up to the final design and are related to
design changes and increases in the amount of inputs needed because of
technical and administrative problems. Of the explanatory factors, there
is most support for lack of competence and optimism bias.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 554-568
Issue: 7
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1064983
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1064983
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:7:p:554-568
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tim Snippert
Author-X-Name-First: Tim
Author-X-Name-Last: Snippert
Author-Name: Wiebe Witteveen
Author-X-Name-First: Wiebe
Author-X-Name-Last: Witteveen
Author-Name: Hans Boes
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Boes
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Title: Barriers to realizing a stewardship relation between client and vendor: the Best Value approach
Abstract:
This study identifies barriers to realizing a stewardship relation instead
of a classic principal-agent relation between client and vendor through
implementation of an innovative procurement and risk management method,
the Best Value approach. This approach focuses on calculus-based trust
development through the use of metrics and alignment of goals and risks
between client and vendor. Barriers to realizing a stewardship relation
are analysed with the use of a theoretical framework that incorporates
agency theory and stewardship theory. Data was collected in 2013 and 2014
through project documentation and interviews for four case studies at the
Dutch Highways Agency. Collected data was used to analyse the roles of the
client and vendor, the scope and level of the products and the overall
process of the clarification phase of the Best Value approach to identify
barriers in practice. Case study findings are analysed and explained by
agency theory and stewardship theory. From a theoretical perspective the
Best Value approach shows large similarities with stewardship theory. In
practice, however, the cases show that the often traditional background of
project teams and the lack of experience with Best Value result in a
control-oriented relationship between client and vendor characterized by
information asymmetry, lack of transparency and distrust. These
characteristics of the relationship between client and vendor inhibit the
realization of a stewardship relation using the Best Value approach.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 569-586
Issue: 7
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1078902
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1078902
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:7:p:569-586
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ka Chi Lam
Author-X-Name-First: Ka Chi
Author-X-Name-Last: Lam
Author-Name: Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi
Author-X-Name-First: Olalekan Shamsideen
Author-X-Name-Last: Oshodi
Title: The capital budgeting evaluation practices (2014) of contractors in the Hong Kong construction industry
Abstract:
Capital budget evaluation plays a crucial role in financial management.
This places a firm in a competitive position. Recent development points to
the need for implementing capital budgeting in construction organizations
due to the capital-intensive nature of construction business. The aim here
is to investigate the trends in the practice of capital budget evaluation
among construction contractors operating in Hong Kong over a 20-year
period. A longitudinal survey approach is used; four cross-sectional
surveys were conducted between 1994 and 2014. The findings indicate that
'formal financial evaluation' is the most common technique used for
capital budget evaluation. In addition, the practice of capital budget
evaluation is more pronounced in the large-sized firms. A comparative
analysis of the results of the four surveys reveals that there are
variations in the degree and frequency of use of capital budget evaluation
techniques over the study period. Further research is needed to understand
the challenges associated with the use of sophisticated capital budget
evaluation techniques in the construction industry of Hong Kong.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 587-600
Issue: 7
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1073852
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1073852
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:7:p:587-600
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Pryke
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Pryke
Author-Name: Damir Lunic
Author-X-Name-First: Damir
Author-X-Name-Last: Lunic
Author-Name: Sulafa Badi
Author-X-Name-First: Sulafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Badi
Title: The effect of leader emotional intelligence on leader-follower chemistry: a study of construction project managers
Abstract:
Extending Nicolini's notion of project 'chemistry', a 'leader-follower
chemistry' model associated with the quality of dyadic interpersonal
communication in construction projects is developed. The focus is on the
project manager as leader in an attempt to deepen understanding of the
effect of a project manager's emotional intelligence (EI) on the quality
of interpersonal communication with their followers, being other members
of the project team. While a project manager's EI, with its associated
emotional competencies, is often seen as critical in achieving good
relationships with members of the project team, it remains a largely
understudied concept, particularly in construction projects. Primary data
collected using a series of analytical surveys and live observations of
site-based project meetings was used to examine the relationship between a
project manager's emotional competencies, particularly sensitivity and
expressiveness, and leader-follower chemistry. Overall, 68 construction
professionals participated in the study. The findings suggest that a
project manager's emotional sensitivity and expressiveness (particularly
head gestures) may explain variance in the quality of leader-follower
chemistry. Based on the empirical evidence in the context of team
communication, a leader-follower chemistry model is introduced, which
emphasizes the importance of leaders' emotional sensitivity and
expressiveness in a leader-follower communication dyad. The model may be
particularly salient in complex project networks with a large number of
prominent actors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-624
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1078901
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1078901
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:603-624
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdulaziz M. Jarkas
Author-X-Name-First: Abdulaziz M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jarkas
Author-Name: R. Malcolm W. Horner
Author-X-Name-First: R. Malcolm W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Horner
Title: Creating a baseline for labour productivity of reinforced concrete building construction in Kuwait
Abstract:
Despite many technological advances, construction remains a labour
intensive industry, and labour productivity remains the industry's
predominant determinant of performance. However, there is a lack of
evidence-based labour productivity 'baselines' with which researchers or
industry practitioners can compare the efficiency of the labour force, and
subsequently establish sensible benchmarks. A rigorous approach to
determining baselines for labour productivity of in situ
reinforced concrete trades for major building elements under normal
operating conditions in the State of Kuwait has therefore been developed.
The data were collected from 208 in situ reinforced
concrete building projects between 2006 and 2013. The intermittent
observation data collection technique which requires the researcher to
carry out weekly site visits to audit site staff daily records was used.
Projects observed included residential, office and commercial buildings
ranging from 1000 to 15 000 m-super-2 in gross floor area, and
US$300 000 to US$21 000 000 in construction cost, located
across most major cities and suburbs within the State. For each dataset,
the minimum, lower quartile, median, upper quartile and maximum labour
productivity values are presented. Whilst the median and inter-quartile
range represent the baseline or normal labour productivity range of the
related activity, the lower and upper quartiles may be used as benchmarks
to identify poor and exceptional performance. Although the metrics are
specific to Kuwait, the principles of data collection, analysis and use
are generic and could be applied to advantage in other countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-639
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1085651
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1085651
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:625-639
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: L.P. Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: L.P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Author-Name: I.L. Karlsen
Author-X-Name-First: I.L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Karlsen
Author-Name: P. Kines
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kines
Author-Name: T. Joensson
Author-X-Name-First: T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Joensson
Author-Name: K.J. Nielsen
Author-X-Name-First: K.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nielsen
Title: Social identity in the construction industry: implications for safety perception and behaviour
Abstract:
The construction industry has one of the highest frequency levels and
rates of work-related injuries, yet the evidence for successful attempts
to reduce injuries is generally lacking. The motivational and (safety)
behavioural implications of social identification and social
categorization among construction labourer work crews were investigated to
ascertain how their interactions are affected by the social structure and
organization of work. Semi-structured group interviews and mini interviews
during work were carried out with 13 concrete work crews (totalling 53
persons) at five large construction sites. The organization of work
fosters social identification within a crew, resulting in distancing from
and social categorization of site management. Social identification
influences safety behaviour in the crews, where worksite safety rules may
meet resistance. Future safety initiatives at large construction sites
should take into account the dynamics of social identification and
categorization in the implementation of safety measures, e.g. by creating
an alternative organization of work, thus making it easier for a work crew
to identify themselves with the site management. Site/crew managers should
consider how safety can become a salient and valued group norm by altering
the social structure at the sites and/or fostering dual social identity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 640-652
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1087645
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1087645
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:640-652
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yongcheng Fu
Author-X-Name-First: Yongcheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Fu
Author-Name: Yongqiang Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yongqiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Shuibo Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Shuibo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Wenqian Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Wenqian
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Promoting cooperation in construction projects: an integrated approach of contractual incentive and trust
Abstract:
Contractual incentive and trust are two commonly used governance
mechanisms that help to promote inter-organizational cooperation. Little
is known, however, about the boundary conditions for the complementation
of these two governance mechanisms. The aim is to investigate the
interaction of contractual incentive and trust in promoting
inter-organizational cooperation. A three-staged Stackelberg model was
established and then solved by backward induction. Research results
indicate that contractual incentive can motivate the contractor's task
behaviours, while the effect of trust on relational behaviours is
path-dependent. Three levels of factors (intra-organizational,
inter-organizational and project factors) would affect the selection of
the optimal incentive coefficient. Moreover, when the changing rate of the
client's cost of effort is less than or equal to a threshold, contractual
incentive and trust can be complementary. The study contributes to theory
by offering nuanced insights into the governance mechanisms and addressing
the complex contracting issues when mutual trust exists. In addition, this
study can help to create favourable circumstances for the complementation
between contractual incentive and trust, achieving a better project
outcome and relational benefit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-670
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1087646
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1087646
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:653-670
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Samwel Alananga
Author-X-Name-First: Samwel
Author-X-Name-Last: Alananga
Author-Name: Charles Lucian
Author-X-Name-First: Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Lucian
Author-Name: Moses Mpogole Kusiluka
Author-X-Name-First: Moses Mpogole
Author-X-Name-Last: Kusiluka
Title: Significant cost-push factors in owner-built incremental housing construction in Tanzania
Abstract:
The owner-built incremental housing approach is highly prevalent in
developing countries although its economic rationale is questionable. This
study uses descriptive statistics and regression analysis to examine the
flexibility of owner-built housing construction cost in response to
different cost-push factors based on survey data on 43 main and 20
outbuilding projects implemented in Dar es Salaam Tanzania between 1990
and 2013. It has been observed that factor cost-flexibility of incremental
construction is significantly enhanced through longer construction
periods, the use of local cement and drainage system materials and larger
built space. This flexibility is explained by the owner-builders' ability
to internalize these cost-push factors over time which is reflected
through lower annual construction costs facing owner-builders even at
times of shortage in services and material supply, cost underestimation or
high interest rate. These observations suggest that longer construction
periods not only offer the cost-spread advantage but also allow a more
thorough search for appropriate plot location, cheaper sources of
materials, more affordable design and an appropriate match between
changing life cycle housing needs and household income. Therefore, the
incremental owner-built approach has lower annual construction costs not
only because of the cost-spread effect of a longer construction period but
also as a result of owner-builders' cost-saving choices made in terms of
utilization of certain local materials, purchasing plots in less
challenging environments, preferring single-storey over two-storey houses
and avoiding complex house design.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 671-688
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090007
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090007
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:671-688
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Lemer
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Lemer
Title: Life Cycle Costing: For the Analysis, Management and Maintenance of Civil Engineering Infrastructure
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 689-691
Issue: 8
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1085069
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1085069
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:8:p:689-691
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lars Sunding
Author-X-Name-First: Lars
Author-X-Name-Last: Sunding
Author-Name: Anders Ekholm
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Ekholm
Title: Applying social sciences to inspire behavioural change in the construction sector: an experimental study
Abstract:
In several reports, the construction industry has been criticized for
inefficiencies, errors and increasing costs. Although the industry's
critics and researchers implicitly call for a change in human behaviour,
this is seldom explicitly problematized by any of them. It is rather seen
as a natural consequence of the suggested measures for improvements.
Researchers have begun to question if the influence of human psychology
has not been underestimated in the present approach. After a review of
different psychological theories an action research investigation of how
psychological factors might contribute to the recurring problems in the
construction sector and to the difficulties of changing it is carried out.
An intervention method has been developed to counteract the tendency of
various psychological functions that can distort information. It was found
that the problems professionals are experiencing dramatically differ from
those expressed in some critical reports. During the process, the
professionals discovered their own role in the problem scenario. This
shows a way to pay more attention to human/psychological issues in action
design within the construction context, and what can happen when this is
done.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 695-710
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090619
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090619
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:695-710
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vacharapoom Benjaoran
Author-X-Name-First: Vacharapoom
Author-X-Name-Last: Benjaoran
Author-Name: Wisitsak Tabyang
Author-X-Name-First: Wisitsak
Author-X-Name-Last: Tabyang
Author-Name: Nart Sooksil
Author-X-Name-First: Nart
Author-X-Name-Last: Sooksil
Title: Precedence relationship options for the resource levelling problem using a genetic algorithm
Abstract:
The resource levelling problem (RLP) arises in project scheduling where
the intention is to reduce the fluctuation of the resource demand. The
solutions of the RLP are achieved through the rearrangement of the project
activities under a constraint of preselected precedence relationships. To
relieve the constraint, a new concept of the RLP with relationship options
is initiated. An activity of the project network can have one or more
alternative types of relationship with other activities as appropriate. An
alternative relationship provides more float time and allows new
possibilities for the arrangement of efficient patterns of the project
resource demand. The scheduling problem model was formulated by using
mathematical equations on spreadsheet software and solved by using the
genetic algorithm based optimization. The prototype was tested in two
different project instances. The test results demonstrated that this new
model could calculate and arrange the project schedules for all selected
alternative types of relationships. The model with relationship options
provided consistent results for efficient resource utilization schedules,
which were better than the one without relationship options. These
schedules could decrease the resource demand fluctuation and the maximum
resource demand level. This new model of the RLP with relationship options
not only provides the additional flexibility to level the resource demands
but also determines suitable types of relationships for the project
activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-723
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1100317
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1100317
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:711-723
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Building a new third construction sector through social enterprise
Abstract:
Social enterprises are profit-making businesses which trade for a social
purpose. They bridge the gap between welfare and work, providing
employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups often excluded from
employment in the construction industry. Social enterprises are a
fast-growing part of a larger third economic sector. However, compared to
other industries, there are relatively few social enterprises operating in
construction and little is known about the challenges they face in doing
so. In-depth interviews at 12 UK social enterprises reveal that many of
the challenges faced by social enterprises in the construction industry
are similar to those faced by social enterprises operating in other
industries. These include: building trust, managing hybridity; securing
finance; measuring social impact; and achieving scale. However, in
addressing the lack of sector-specific insights in social enterprise
research, challenges unique to construction are also identified. These
include: procurement practices which favour industry incumbents; costly
tender bureaucracy; established supply chain relationships; lack of
experience of working with social enterprises; disingenuous corporate
social responsibility practices; and fear that social enterprises will
reduce competitiveness. Recommendations are made to resolve these
challenges, enabling the construction sector to create an ecosystem where
social enterprises can thrive. Questions to guide future research into
this unexplored area are also proposed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 724-739
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090006
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090006
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:724-739
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Sarah Pink
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Pink
Author-Name: James Harley
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Harley
Author-Name: Ruwini Edirisinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Ruwini
Author-X-Name-Last: Edirisinghe
Title: Looking and learning: using participatory video to improve health and safety in the construction industry
Abstract:
Construction health and safety (H&S) is usually managed using a top-down
approach of regulating workers' behaviour through the implementation and
enforcement of prescriptive rules and procedures. This management approach
privileges technical knowledge over knowledge based on workers' tacit and
informal ways of knowing about H&S. The aim is to investigate the
potential for participatory video to: (1) identify areas in which formal
policies and procedures do not reflect H&S as practised by workers; (2)
encourage creative thinking and elicit workers' ideas for H&S
improvements; and (3) provide an effective mechanism for capturing and
sharing tacit H&S knowledge in construction organizations. Interviews were
conducted in two case study organizations (CSOs) in the Australian
construction industry. The results suggest reflexive participatory video
enabled workers and managers to view their work practices from a different
perspective. Workers identified new hazards, reflected about the practical
difficulties in performing work in accordance with documented procedures
and reframed their work practices and developed safer ways of working.
Workers described how the participatory video capturing the way they work
enabled them to have more meaningful input into H&S decision-making than
they had previously experienced. Workers also expressed a strong
preference for receiving H&S information in a visual format and commented
that video was better suited to communicating H&S 'know how' than written
documents. The research is significant in providing initial evidence that
participatory video has the potential to improve H&S in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 740-751
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1102301
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1102301
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:740-751
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-P�rez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-P�rez
Author-Name: M. Carmen Gonz�lez-Cruz
Author-X-Name-First: M. Carmen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gonz�lez-Cruz
Author-Name: Jose Luis Fuentes-Bargues
Author-X-Name-First: Jose Luis
Author-X-Name-Last: Fuentes-Bargues
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Analysis of the distribution of the number of bidders in construction contract auctions
Abstract:
The number of bidders, N, involved in a construction
procurement auction is known to have an important effect on the value of
the lowest bid and the mark-up applied by bidders. In practice, for
example, it is important for a bidder to have a good estimate of
N when bidding for a current contract. One approach,
instigated by Friedman in 1956, is to make such an estimate by statistical
analysis and modelling. Since then, however, finding a suitable model for
N has been an enduring problem for researchers and,
despite intensive research activity in the subsequent 30 years, little
progress has been made, due principally to the absence of new ideas and
perspectives. The debate is resumed by checking old assumptions, providing
new evidence relating to concomitant variables and proposing a new model.
In doing this and in order to ensure universality, a novel approach is
developed and tested by using a unique set of 12 construction tender
databases from four continents. This shows the new model provides a
significant advancement on previous versions. Several new research
questions are also posed and other approaches identified for future study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 752-770
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090008
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090008
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:752-770
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Brian Atkin
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Atkin
Title: Megaproject Planning and Management: Essential Readings
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 771-774
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090617
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090617
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:771-774
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bernard Vogl
Author-X-Name-First: Bernard
Author-X-Name-Last: Vogl
Title: Measuring Construction: Prices, Output and Productivity
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 775-777
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090616
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090616
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:775-777
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Title: Sustainable Building Adaptation: Innovations in Decision-making
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 777-778
Issue: 9
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1090618
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1090618
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:9:p:777-778
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marion M. Russell
Author-X-Name-First: Marion M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Russell
Author-Name: Min Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Min
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Simon M. Hsiang
Author-X-Name-First: Simon M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hsiang
Title: Planning for uncertainty: use of structural equation modelling to determine the causal structure of time buffer allocation
Abstract:
Construction personnel at every level of management are constantly
planning and trying to figure out how to best deal with the uncertainty
and variability of construction projects. The allocation of a time buffer
in task planning is one method used to absorb variation caused by the
inherent complexity and uncertainty present in construction. The research
objective is to identify the causal structure used in planning for
uncertainty and allocating a time buffer to construction project tasks. A
time buffer questionnaire was developed and distributed to 175 companies
across 37 states in the US. A structural equation modelling approach was
used to develop mental models for field management personnel and upper
management personnel based on both the frequency and severity response
data collected. A total of 63 completed surveys from construction field
managers were collected to validate the models. Contributions to the body
of knowledge include (1) the development of causal structures for decision
support through identification of risk areas, and the prioritization,
prevention, and mitigation of those risks; and (2) the comparison of the
field management models with the upper management models to identify both
the shared key causes of buffer allocation and the differences in planning
priorities. The contribution to practice is that the findings will help
construction managers understand what drives the need for buffers in their
construction schedules and allow them to focus efforts on strategically
addressing the most critical areas of concern and uncertainty.
Furthermore, the execution of a model survey serves to strengthen the
findings of the data analysis and improve the overall models from a
practical standpoint.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 783-798
Issue: 10
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1137335
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1137335
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:10:p:783-798
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rajaa Alasad
Author-X-Name-First: Rajaa
Author-X-Name-Last: Alasad
Author-Name: Ibrahim Motawa
Author-X-Name-First: Ibrahim
Author-X-Name-Last: Motawa
Title: Dynamic demand risk assessment for toll road projects
Abstract:
To bridge the gap between supply of and increasing demand for roads,
public--private partnership (PPP) concession contracts in which the
investment cost is recovered via payments from the end users have been
established. Although this mechanism has been seen as an efficient way for
road projects to be completed on time and within budget, the demand risk
faced during the operation stage has considerably limited this efficiency.
Demand depends on a range of interrelated and dynamic factors such as the
demographic and economic conditions. In addition, uncertainty is an
inherent aspect of most demand-underlying factors which always make demand
estimation inaccurate. However, this uncertainty is largely ignored by
modellers where a single demand estimate is often used when evaluating the
facility. The aim is to develop a system dynamics model to assess demand
risk in road projects. The model captures the factors affecting demand and
their relationships and simulates their change over time. By employing
Monte Carlo simulation, the model assesses the likelihood and potential
effect of an event on the outcome and provides a full picture of the
various effects of potential risk. The model can help public, private, and
financial stakeholders of PPP facilities make more informed decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 799-817
Issue: 10
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1143561
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1143561
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:10:p:799-817
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Steve Nevin
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Nevin
Title: Development and validation of a multilevel safety climate measurement tool in the construction industry
Abstract:
Construction organizations are large and complex with decentralized
structures, and characterized by non-routine work undertaken by
semi-autonomous work groups. Construction workers’ perceptions of
safety climate can form at different levels and vary between subunits. A
multilevel safety climate measurement tool was proposed, which identified
five important safety agents, i.e. client, principal contractor,
supervisor, co-workers, and individual workers. Surveys were conducted at
three construction projects commissioned by Fonterra Co-operative Group. A
total of 356 participants completed the survey. The data was subject to
scale reliability analysis and factor analysis. The results showed that
all scales achieved satisfactory internal consistency and the multilevel
factorial structure was generally supported. At the organizational level,
the tool measures clients’ overall safety priority and safety
actions, and principal contractors’ general commitment to safety.
At the group level, the tool measures supervisors’ safety actions
and safety expectations, and co-workers’ general safety values and
practices. The tool also measures individual safety responses reflected by
safety compliance and safety participation. The measurement tool would
help construction organizations to diagnose potential weaknesses in their
safety management practices for safety improvement and also help to
develop a social and cultural work environment that is supportive of
safety at all levels.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 818-839
Issue: 10
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1108451
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1108451
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:10:p:818-839
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Libby Schweber
Author-X-Name-First: Libby
Author-X-Name-Last: Schweber
Title: Putting theory to work: the use of theory in construction research
Abstract:
Attention to epistemology, theory use and citation practices are all
issues which distinguish academic disciplines from other ways of knowing.
Examples from construction research are used to outline and reflect on
these issues. In doing so, the discussion provides an introduction to some
key issues in social research as well as a reflection on the current state
of construction research as a field. More specifically, differences
between positivist and interpretivist epistemologies, the role of theory
in each and their use by construction researchers are discussed.
Philosophical differences are illustrated by appeal to two published
construction research articles by Reichstein et al. and
Harty on innovation (Reichstein, Salter and Gann, 2005; Harty, 2008). An
analysis of citations for each highlights different cumulativity
strategies. The potential contribution of mixed research programmes,
combining positivist and interpretivist research, is evaluated. The paper
should be of interest to early researchers and to scholars concerned with
the ongoing development of construction research as an academic field.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 840-860
Issue: 10
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1133918
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1133918
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:10:p:840-860
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Gardiner
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Gardiner
Title: Relationship Management and the Management of Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 861-862
Issue: 10
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1127983
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1127983
File-Format: text/html
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:10:p:861-862
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Louise Bildsten
Author-X-Name-First: Louise
Author-X-Name-Last: Bildsten
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Title: A framework for understanding purchasing in building construction companies
Abstract:
Purchasing on the part of a building construction company involves actors
inside and outside the organization. These actors are driven by different
motives that influence purchasing decisions in different situations. An
explicit framework that assists in understanding the different purchasing
situations would be of benefit to companies and researchers. Through a
study of purchasing theory and practices, including interviews with a
number of building construction companies, a framework of purchasing is
proposed. The framework covers all stages in the purchasing process and
focuses on four factors: (1) purchasing situations; (2) level of
complexity; (3) active roles and (4) supply chain involvement. The
inter-relationships between these factors are discussed from the
perspective of the companies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 865-879
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1164325
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1164325
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:11-12:p:865-879
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark A. Hinton
Author-X-Name-First: Mark A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hinton
Author-Name: Robert T. Hamilton
Author-X-Name-First: Robert T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamilton
Title: Competitive tendering and individual behaviour in the construction industry: convenient immorality at work
Abstract:
How and why does the construction industry persist with competitive
tendering as the dominant procurement model? This is a constructivist
grounded theory view of construction industry procurement in New Zealand,
explaining how industry actors have to behave. convenient
immorality is a shared and accepted response by individuals
intended to facilitate business outcomes within an environment of intense
competition, driven by opportunism and asymmetric power relationships. Low
trust due to convenient immorality behaviours will
continue to frustrate attempts to replace competitive tendering as the
dominant model for construction industry procurement.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 880-889
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1170865
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1170865
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:11-12:p:880-889
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Author-Name: I. Krystallis
Author-X-Name-First: I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Krystallis
Author-Name: P. Demian
Author-X-Name-First: P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Demian
Author-Name: A.D.F Price
Author-X-Name-First: A.D.F
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Title: Using BIM to integrate and achieve holistic future-proofing objectives in healthcare projects
Abstract:
Future-proofing (FP) as a proactive initiative for asset management is an
urgent need against uncertainty, particularly in health care due to
unforeseeable demographic shifts and rapid advances in medical technology.
Building information modelling (BIM) is a data-driven initiative, but a
rigorous analysis between them will indicate that a synergy exists. The
aim of this study is to develop a classification ontology of the
interactions between FP and BIM by considering the perceptions of health
care construction experts. Interviews with 13 senior managers were
conducted adopting the method of interpretative phenomenological analysis
and an interaction matrix of BIM capabilities for implementing holistic FP
objectives has been developed. The outcome is a taxonomy analysis of 30
interactions with supporting empirical evidence which was further measured
quantitatively. For benefits realization in the context of BIM and FP, the
industry experts recognize FP as a strategy that supports organizational
and building performance. BIM drives towards life cycle operation
information and data maintainability via communicating the FP strategy
from a whole-life perspective and ensuring knowledge transfer across all
stages. Health care Operators and construction experts should be able to
benefit from this taxonomy analysis as an aid to planning for FP
throughout their BIM processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 890-906
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1164326
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1164326
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anumitra Mirti Chand
Author-X-Name-First: Anumitra Mirti
Author-X-Name-Last: Chand
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: A socio-ecological analysis of hospital resilience to extreme weather events
Abstract:
Hospitals play a critical role in helping communities respond effectively
to extreme weather events (EWEs). Despite predictions of more EWEs, little
is known about the process by which hospital infrastructure resilience to
such events can be built. Using Gunderson and Holling’s Adaptive
Cycle, a new theoretical perspective based on socio-ecological resilience
theory is provided to understand this process. Data were collected using
semi-structured interviews, observations of disaster drills and disaster
planning meetings, as well as additional documentary analysis of past
incident reports. The research findings were then refined and validated in
a focus group meeting with respondents. The findings indicate that there
are significant organizational barriers which prevent facilities managers
improving the resilience of hospital facilities to future EWEs. It was
found that the disaster planning process is ad hoc and non-inclusive,
focused on man-made disasters and compliance driven, top-down approach,
under-resourced and is driven by a general ignorance of the importance of
resilient-built facilities to health care delivery during an EWE. It is
concluded that to produce more resilient hospital infrastructure, there
needs to be a more well-resourced, integrated and collaborative approach
to disaster management planning which enables health facilities managers
to play a more central role in disaster planning decisions. There also
need to be better systems, technologies and training implemented to manage
information about health infrastructure performance before, during and
after EWEs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 907-920
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1165856
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1165856
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:33:y:2015:i:11-12:p:907-920
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Author-Name: Mohammed A. Rajeh
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rajeh
Author-Name: John E. Tookey
Author-X-Name-First: John E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tookey
Author-Name: James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi
Author-X-Name-First: James Olabode Bamidele
Author-X-Name-Last: Rotimi
Title: Developing a procurement path determination chart SEM-based approach
Abstract:
The choice of an appropriate procurement system is crucial to construction
project success. Procurement selection is largely based on path
determination charts, with at least eight key criteria needing to be
weighted by decision-makers. Including certain criteria whilst ignoring
client-borne transaction costs (TCs) resulting from environmental
uncertainties simplifies this process. TCs are ‘unseen’
costs associated with pre- and post-contract work. The effects of
uncertainties in the transaction environment and procurement systems on
TCs are investigated, comparing the traditional and design-build
procurement systems. A cross-sectional sample approach was deployed,
involving survey questionnaire and results verification through
‘real-world’ cases. Data was sought from construction
professionals in management, design and operation of construction
projects. The research participants evaluate their time spent on
procurement activities using a five-point Likert scale. Hypotheses of the
relations between environmental uncertainties, procurement systems, and
pre- and post-contract TCs are tested using a structural equation
modelling (SEM) approach. The study found that TCs account for about
46.75% and 42.88% of the daily time spent by project managers in
traditional and design-build procurement systems in New Zealand
respectively. The study concludes that the TC concept is a useful
framework for determining objective instead of subjective opinions for
procurement decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 921-941
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1151538
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1151538
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jessica Kaminsky
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaminsky
Title: Institutionalizing infrastructure: photo-elicitation of cultural-cognitive knowledge of development
Abstract:
Infrastructure that goes unused -- for example, after constructing the
first water, electricity, sewers or road infrastructure in an
infrastructure-poor community -- is a common issue in new infrastructure
development in the global south. In this case, while infrastructure has
diffused, it has not become institutionalized. To better understand this
problem, photo-elicitation methods are used to explore cultural-cognitive
frames used by research respondents as they create and explain photograph
symbols that represent change in their built environment. For example,
respondents advocate for infrastructure they have reason to believe
outsiders will provide as they evaluate the infrastructure against local
utility in an early phase of institutionalization. Respondents also frame
the research undertaking as an opportunity to actively diffuse
infrastructure practices they have recently adopted themselves. By making
these and other frames explicit, the photo-elicitation method reveals the
elusive cultural-cognitive pillar of institutionalization and also
provides insight into sources of self-reporting bias. The method also has
particular advantages for research dealing with disadvantaged respondents,
reduces issues of free recall bias and increases the length and depth of
research interviews. Given the relative novelty of this method in
construction research, its theory, advantages and limitations are
discussed in some depth.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 942-956
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 33
Year: 2015
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1167927
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1167927
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: William G. Robinson
Author-X-Name-First: William G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Robinson
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Author-Name: Thomas Lau
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Lau
Title: Sensors and sensibility: examining the role of technological features in servitizing construction towards greater sustainability
Abstract:
The role played by the technological development of products in shaping
more sustainable ways of working in the built environment is examined
through a case study of a systems integrator of mechanical and electrical
systems in the UK construction industry, ConstructCo. They are exploring
ways in which they can improve the through-life performance of their
systems through servitization. The aim was to understand how and why
emergent technological features, stimulated by embedding new sensors
within their systems, were affording different user groups within the
organization’s value chain to act in more servitized ways. The case
analysis found that new energy-metering sensors were integral to the
development of greater transparency between ConstructCo and their clients.
Equally evident were the various ways in which equipment-condition
monitoring sensors were shaping a collective motive across
ConstructCo’s supply chain towards exploring the justification for
implementing predictive maintenance. The role played by new sensor
technology in shaping ConstructCo’s pursuit of servitization
highlights the need for research to pay greater attention to material
agency when explaining how organizational practices accommodate the
implementation and use of technological developments in construction.
Furthermore, using servitization as the research context offers fresh
insights into transitioning towards greater servitization in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 4-20
Issue: 1
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1139146
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1139146
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marina Bos-de Vos
Author-X-Name-First: Marina
Author-X-Name-Last: Bos-de Vos
Author-Name: J.W.F. Hans Wamelink
Author-X-Name-First: J.W.F. Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Wamelink
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: Trade-offs in the value capture of architectural firms: the significance of professional value
Abstract:
Architectural firms often have difficulty generating profit from their
services as they pursue not only commercial but also professional goals.
These goals frequently conflict and have to be balanced during the process
of value creation and value capture. So far, literature has focused on the
interaction between the perceived use value for the customer and the fee
that is paid to the firm. To better understand how professional service
firms realize their organizational targets, professional value needs to be
included. In this study, in-depth interviews with the architects and
clients of nine housing projects provide insight into the content and
process of value capture by architectural firms. The data reveal
strategies by which architects tried to maximize the capture of
professional value at the expense of profit or sometimes even their
clients’ perceived use value. These trade-offs in value capture
confirm the importance of professional value when studying value creation
and capture in a professional service context. This paper provides an
understanding of how architectural firms struggle to balance competing
goals and highlights the importance of well-managed value capture.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-34
Issue: 1
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1177192
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1177192
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tony Hopkin
Author-X-Name-First: Tony
Author-X-Name-Last: Hopkin
Author-Name: Shu-Ling Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Phil Rogers
Author-X-Name-First: Phil
Author-X-Name-Last: Rogers
Author-Name: Martin Sexton
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sexton
Title: Detecting defects in the UK new-build housing sector: a learning perspective
Abstract:
Rapid growth in the production of new homes in the UK is putting build
quality under pressure as evidenced by an increase in the number of
defects. Housing associations (HAs) contribute approximately 20% of the
UK’s new housing supply. HAs are currently experiencing central
government funding cuts and rental revenue reductions. As part of
HAs’ quest to ramp up supply despite tight budget conditions, they
are reviewing how they learn from defects. Learning from defects is argued
as a means of reducing the persistent defect problem within the UK
housebuilding industry, yet how HAs learn from defects is
under-researched. The aim of this research is to better understand how
HAs, in practice, learn from past defects to reduce the prevalence of
defects in future new homes. The theoretical lens for this research is
organizational learning. The results drawn from 12 HA case studies
indicate that effective organizational learning has the potential to
reduce defects within the housing sector. The results further identify
that HAs are restricting their learning to focus primarily on reducing
defects through product and system adaptations. Focusing on product and
system adaptations alone suppresses HAs’ abilities to reduce
defects in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-45
Issue: 1
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1162316
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1162316
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Gottsche
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottsche
Author-Name: Mark Kelly
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Kelly
Author-Name: Martin Taggart
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Taggart
Title: Assessing the impact of energy management initiatives on the energy usage during the construction phase of an educational building project in Ireland
Abstract:
The construction industry is estimated to account for 40% of annual global
energy use and 30% of annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has suggested the
construction sector as best placed to improve its energy performance in
order to help Ireland to meet the European Union (EU) GHG reduction target
of 20% by 2020. An action research (AR) approach was used to explore the
construction phase energy reduction opportunities on a selected case study
in the West of Ireland. The participating contractor’s current
onsite energy management practices were benchmarked to inform the
implementation of a series of quick-win measures at a cost of
€706.04. The resultant savings of €19 853.03
represented 17.5% of the total expenditure on energy usage on site
(€113 397) and resulted in an estimated saving of 5.5% of the
assumed project profit (€358 800). A set of key performance
indicators (KPIs) were calculated for both phases of the project with a
75% reduction in the cost of electricity per floor area from phase 1 to
phase 2. The findings suggest that improving site energy use provides
scope for the contractor to increase profit margins, improve resource
efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 46-60
Issue: 1
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1162317
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1162317
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:1:p:46-60
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Niamh Murtagh
Author-X-Name-First: Niamh
Author-X-Name-Last: Murtagh
Author-Name: Aeli Roberts
Author-X-Name-First: Aeli
Author-X-Name-Last: Roberts
Author-Name: Richard Hind
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Hind
Title: The relationship between motivations of architectural designers and environmentally sustainable construction design
Abstract:
Research on sustainability in construction design has tended to focus on
technological, institutional and economic drivers, but there has been
little change in the industry. Social scientific approaches offer insights
on the lack of progress. However, few previous studies have investigated
psychological factors despite the pivotal role of the individual
professional decision-maker. The aim was to understand what personal
motivations drive architectural designers to pursue sustainable design in
their work and whether non-environmental motivations can drive sustainable
outcomes. Twenty-eight architectural designers in 14 small firms in the
London area were interviewed. Thematic analysis was conducted, informed by
the self-determination theory of motivation. Although extrinsic motivators
were noted, autonomous motivations including a moral imperative and
personal commitment predominated. Further, the participants demonstrated
other self-determined motivations including realization of self-identity,
pursuit of quality in design and awareness of their work’s impact
on people. These autonomous motivations align closely with sustainability
principles including design for durability, high standards and technical
expertise. The findings point to the risks of reliance on extrinisic
motivators such as regulation, and the opportunities to engage
architectural designers more extensively in sustainable design by linking
sustainability to autonomous motivations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 61-75
Issue: 1
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1178392
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1178392
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:1:p:61-75
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johannes Hartwig
Author-X-Name-First: Johannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartwig
Author-Name: Judit Kockat
Author-X-Name-First: Judit
Author-X-Name-Last: Kockat
Title: Macroeconomic effects of energetic building retrofit: input-output sensitivity analyses
Abstract:
Energy efficiency measures in buildings are essential for climate
protection, but are not always recognized by the investor in common
profitability calculations. To provide a quantitative scientific base for
policymakers, the aim is to identify and quantify the impact of these
measures on Germany’s economy with a static open input-output
model. Moreover, this investigation analyses how much the chosen base year
affects the calculated macroeconomic impact, to obtain a clearer view of
involved dynamics. The energy efficiency measures in buildings and their
impact on energy demand and investments were simulated in the bottom-up
building model INVERT/EE-Lab up to 2020. The methodological addition of
this research is to identify and map the resulting impulses to the
according macroeconomic sectors. Based on this stimulus a static
input-output analysis is conducted using a range of base years. The
results show that efficiency measures in buildings have a significant
positive effect on macroeconomic key figures. The magnitude of the
calculated impact depends on chosen base year data and varies for value
added and employment. As a conclusion, the macroeconomic impact
constitutes a co-benefit supporting the economic attractiveness of energy
efficiency. However, studies based on a single base year dataset like many
computable general equilibrium models may need to reflect the errors
caused by that choice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 79-97
Issue: 2
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1144928
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1144928
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:2:p:79-97
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marieke Venselaar
Author-X-Name-First: Marieke
Author-X-Name-Last: Venselaar
Author-Name: Vincent Gruis
Author-X-Name-First: Vincent
Author-X-Name-Last: Gruis
Title: Studying intra-organizational dynamics in implementing supply chain partnering: a case study about work floor experiences in a Dutch housing association
Abstract:
This study aims at uncovering intra-organizational dynamics in
implementing supply chain partnering. Narrative techniques are used in a
qualitative case study in a Dutch housing association. This study shows
how project leaders of a Dutch housing association perceive relationships
in the internal supply chain and the strategies that they develop to cope
with these relationships. Furthermore, it is argued that key values of SCP
as understood by the project leaders -- such as sharing responsibilities
and addressing feedback towards each other openly -- are not applied in
intra-organizational relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 98-109
Issue: 2
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1179772
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1179772
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:2:p:98-109
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mei-yung Leung
Author-X-Name-First: Mei-yung
Author-X-Name-Last: Leung
Author-Name: Qi Liang
Author-X-Name-First: Qi
Author-X-Name-Last: Liang
Author-Name: Jingyu Yu
Author-X-Name-First: Jingyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Yu
Title: Development of a mindfulness--stress--performance model for construction workers
Abstract:
Construction workers contribute to the success of projects on sites full
of hazards and risks. Working in the construction industry is very
stressful for them, while stress can impair their performance and safety.
Mindfulness has been regarded as effective to manage stress and improve
performance in general, while there is constant argument on the
mindfulness characteristics. In addition, the effect of individual
mindfulness characteristics on construction workers’ stress and
performance still remains unknown. Therefore to fill in the research gap,
a questionnaire survey was administered among construction workers. Nine
mindfulness characteristics (framed into three theoretical categories),
three stress types and three kinds of performance were identified. The
results show that mindfulness characteristics indirectly improve
construction workers’ performance by relieving their stress: (1)
objective stress is mitigated by observation; (2) emotional stress is
relieved by observation and awareness, and impairs construction
workers’ organizational performance; and (3) physical stress is
reduced by awareness, and worsens safety performance. Mindfulness
characteristics also directly improve construction workers’
performance, namely description and observation enhance working
performance; and awareness improves safety performance. However, the study
interestingly found that the mindfulness attitude group has no effect on
construction workers’ stress and performance, while decentering
even harms their safety performance. The implications underlying the
findings are discussed. Several recommendations are made for mitigating
stress and improving performance. The mindfulness characteristics are
grouped into theoretical categories, and the effects of each mindfulness
characteristic on the stress and performance of construction workers are
identified.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 110-128
Issue: 2
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1147652
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1147652
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:2:p:110-128
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lauri Pulkka
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Pulkka
Author-Name: Miro Ristimäki
Author-X-Name-First: Miro
Author-X-Name-Last: Ristimäki
Author-Name: Karoliina Rajakallio
Author-X-Name-First: Karoliina
Author-X-Name-Last: Rajakallio
Author-Name: Seppo Junnila
Author-X-Name-First: Seppo
Author-X-Name-Last: Junnila
Title: Applicability and benefits of the ecosystem concept in the construction industry
Abstract:
Inter-firm collaboration has increased significantly in the last decades.
The concept of ecosystem has emerged to explain the nature and
implications of businesses’ increasing reliance on networks. The
ecosystem concept is intended to be generalizable across sectors, but
research on ecosystems has focused on high-tech industries. Moreover, the
construction industry has special features that differentiate it from
other industries. In this paper, the concept of the ecosystem is
introduced and developed in the context of the construction industry and
the relationship between ecosystem characteristics and value creation in
construction networks is examined. Based on a multiple-case study of six
networks in the Finnish and Swedish construction industry, it is suggested
that the ecosystem concept is applicable and offers a useful analytical
lens for understanding value creation in the construction industry. The
results suggest that operating according to ecosystem principles is
positively connected to value creation in construction networks. Based on
a cross-case analysis, a conceptual framework is presented on the main
connections between ecosystem characteristics and value creation. The
relevance of the ecosystem concept for the construction industry is
predicted to grow in the future, as previous studies suggest that
ecosystem-like features are being increasingly employed in construction
networks.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-144
Issue: 2
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1179773
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1179773
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:2:p:129-144
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiancun Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Xiancun
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Profitability performance assessment in the Australian construction industry: a global relational two-stage DEA method
Abstract:
Effective performance measurement drives performance and supports the
development of construction. Only minimal literature measuring
construction performance, efficiency and effectiveness simultaneously can
be identified. A global relational two-stage data envelopment analysis
(DEA) method is here proposed in order to produce effective and
informative performance results. A relational two-stage DEA method
systematically measures overall efficiency for a whole construction system
and also yields scores for the individual stages of construction. The DEA
results can be directly compared through global benchmark technology. The
Australian construction industry is employed in order to implement the new
method, in which profitability performance as a vital indicator of
business survival, and its two dimensions of efficiency and effectiveness,
are measured. The construction profitability performance and efficiency
measures obtained provide evidence of underperformance and a slight
imbalance in Australia between 1991 and 2012, while the measures obtained
for the effectiveness factor indicate better achievement. The approach
here developed promotes progress in modelling two-stage performance
measurement and it can be replicated worldwide by construction projects,
organizations or industries in order to quantify their performance,
identify internal inefficiency components and recognize competitive
advantages for promoting sustainable development.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 147-159
Issue: 3
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1180415
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1180415
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:3:p:147-159
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bryan W. Franz
Author-X-Name-First: Bryan W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Franz
Author-Name: Robert M. Leicht
Author-X-Name-First: Robert M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leicht
Title: An alternative classification of project delivery methods used in the United States building construction industry
Abstract:
Although many sources describe the project delivery methods available to
owners, there is little empirical data on their defining characteristics.
The objective of this research was to examine patterns in contract
arrangements, procurement practices and compensation terms used in the US
building construction industry. Survey data were collected for projects
completed between 2008 and 2013 (N = 204) from
owners and contractors belonging to large US professional organizations. A
latent class analysis was used to identify five distinct patterns or
‘classes’ based upon eight characteristics of the project
delivery process. These classes were defined as: (I) late
builder and trade involvement, with an open, cost-based selection and lump
sum contract (9% of projects in sample); (II) late
builder and trade involvement, with a prequalified, cost-based selection
and lump sum contract (19%); (III) early builder and late
trade involvement, with a prequalified non-cost based selection and
guaranteed maximum price (GMP) contract (26%); (IV) early
builder and trade involvement, with a prequalified, cost-based selection
and lump sum design-build (DB) contract (27%); (V) early
builder and trade involvement, with a prequalified, non-cost based
selection and GMP DB contract (18%). Compared to existing classifications
of project delivery methods, these classes are data-driven typologies that
represent how participants are procured and organized into a project team.
The findings have implications as an alternative classification system in
project delivery research and as guidance to owners considering their
project delivery options.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 160-173
Issue: 3
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1183800
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1183800
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:3:p:160-173
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Ekeskär
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ekeskär
Author-Name: Martin Rudberg
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Rudberg
Title: Third-party logistics in construction: the case of a large hospital project
Abstract:
The construction supply chain is of temporary nature and complex, with
many interactions between multiple actors in different construction
projects. This challenging context typically leads to relatively higher
costs and lower productivity, compared to other industries. Supply chain
management (SCM) has been put forward as a mean to better handle this
challenging context. As a part of SCM initiatives some construction
industry stakeholders have turned to third-party logistics (TPL)
providers, especially in large construction projects. The use of TPL
providers is a new, and under-investigated, phenomenon in the construction
industry. The main purpose of this study is thus to explore the use of a
TPL provider in a large construction project and to analyse its resulting
effects. Driving forces and possible concerns for implementing TPL are
identified and the possibility for TPL to be a facilitator for
implementing SCM in construction is investigated. The research is based on
a literature review and an explorative case study of a large hospital
project in Sweden, where the client and the main contractor have initiated
the use of a TPL provider to coordinate sourcing and materials handling
activities on site. The results show positive effects on establishing an
effective interface between the construction site and the supply chain.
The results also show that a TPL solution facilitates an increase in
productive work at the construction site itself, a reduction of costs and
an increased utilisation of site assets. On the downside, the study also
shows a lack of SCM knowledge amongst the involved actors in the project,
hindering them to reap the full potential of TPL.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 174-191
Issue: 3
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1186809
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1186809
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:3:p:174-191
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Khurram Iqbal Ahmad Khan
Author-X-Name-First: Khurram Iqbal Ahmad
Author-X-Name-Last: Khan
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Shu-Ling Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Shu-Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Managing information complexity using system dynamics on construction projects
Abstract:
The increase in e-commerce, the digitisation of design data and the
interchange and sharing of information have made the construction sector
more reliant upon IT infrastructure and systems. The design and production
process is complex, dynamic, interconnected and dependent upon greater
information mobility, requiring seamless exchange of data and information
in real time. Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in particular,
specialty contractors, can utilise cost-effective collaboration
technologies, such as cloud computing using software as a service, to help
in the effective transfer of information and data. The system dynamics
(SD) approach gives a better understanding of the dynamics of complex
systems. SD methodology is used as a modelling and analysis tool to
understand and identify the key drivers in the absorption of cloud
computing for SMEs. The aim is to determine how the use of SD can improve
the management of complexity of information flow, leading to improved
performance for SMEs. SD is shown to be a viable tool to manage
information complexity using cloud computing for performance improvement
in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 192-204
Issue: 3
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1190026
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1190026
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:3:p:192-204
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina Karrbom
Author-X-Name-Last: Gustavsson
Title: Liminal roles in construction project practice: exploring change through the roles of partnering manager, building logistic specialist and BIM coordinator
Abstract:
Industries have to adapt to changes in external environment. This adaption includes the development of new professional roles that challenge established structures, roles and communities of practice. In order to better understand the unfolding of construction project practice in an increasingly changeful world new professional roles are explored as liminal roles. The studied professional roles are partnering manager, building logistic specialist and BIM coordinator. Liminality is used as framework to understand descriptions of liminal experiences when negotiating boundary interfaces in construction project practice. Findings are both theoretical and practical and suggest that new professional roles practice multi-liminal work and acknowledge tensions that pose challenges for liminal roles to act as change agents.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 599-610
Issue: 11
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1464197
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1464197
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:11:p:599-610
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Bing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Shuibo Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Shuibo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Xiuqin Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiuqin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Zhuo Feng
Author-X-Name-First: Zhuo
Author-X-Name-Last: Feng
Title: The influence of quality benefit and marginal contribution on the optimal equity structure of the PPP projects: balancing public and private benefits
Abstract:
Public–private partnerships (PPPs) involve many different participants, and the equity allocation between them may influence the performance of PPP projects. While the optimal capital structure and equity capital structure of the project company have been extensively investigated, few studies have examined how to allocate equity shares among different private participants. Considering both public and private benefits, this study focuses on the optimal equity structure between construction contractor (CC) and operating contractor (OC). A game model is used to analyze how quality benefit and marginal contribution of CC and OC’s effort affect the optimal equity structure. The findings reveal that the private consortium expects the party (CC or OC) with higher marginal contribution of effort to own more equity shares, while government expects the party (CC or OC) with lower marginal contribution of effort to own more equity shares. Furthermore, a non-linear relationship between the optimal equity structure and government’s bargaining power is found. The results also manifest that the quality benefit of construction on operation is a nontrivial factor when designing the equity structure. If unconsidered, the CC’s optimal equity ratio will be either undervalued (when a higher construction quality can reduce the operating cost) or overvalued (when a higher construction quality can increase the operating cost). These findings can provide some insights into designing the equity structure for PPP projects in the bidding process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-622
Issue: 11
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1468079
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1468079
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:11:p:611-622
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard F. Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita M. M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Where do I go from here? Motivated reasoning in construction decisions
Abstract:
Early stage decisions have the greatest impact on construction projects and so, attention at conception and realization of projects is imperative. Decisions are influenced by actors’ interdependencies, thus, it is important to understand how actors determine meanings of their situations and actions. Meaning is derived from situational cues that are contextually bounded and, through actions, determines decisions’ outcomes via sensemaking. The objectives of this critical essay are to examine the impact of motivated reasoning on sensemaking and, thus, decision-making through scrutinising how actors make sense of projects and contexts to yield meanings. The focus of the discussion is on the human interactional aspects of decisions to examine potential bias, effected through the vague goals held by the actors, and the assumption of rationality, extending to bounded rationality, and how that leads to traps/pitfalls in decision-making. The discussion encompasses the concepts of sensemaking and of motivated reasoning in construction decisions from the perspectives of the dominant logic and the dynamic states of flux in the construction environment – in particular, the aspects of open-mindedness and directional bias, over-optimism, and attitudinal predispositions which impact on motivated reasoning of decision-makers in construction projects. This essay concludes that motivated reasoning, as a bias vector, operates to influence how actors arrive at understandings, reach decisions and behave to generate outcomes. The motivated reasoning perspective gives insight into the nature of decision-making in many project processes and the outcomes achieved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-634
Issue: 11
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1472386
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1472386
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:11:p:623-634
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rita Lavikka
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavikka
Author-Name: Johanna Kallio
Author-X-Name-First: Johanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Kallio
Author-Name: Thomas Casey
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Casey
Author-Name: Miimu Airaksinen
Author-X-Name-First: Miimu
Author-X-Name-Last: Airaksinen
Title: Digital disruption of the AEC industry: technology-oriented scenarios for possible future development paths
Abstract:
Decision-makers in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry lack knowledge about the implementation of digitalization to generate value. We applied a scenario planning method developed by Schoemaker and Mavaddat to provide decision-makers with information for using digital data and technologies to create value for customers. We aim to theoretically understand how the scenario planning process helps AEC decision-makers to make sense of the future. Our findings show that boundary spanners are needed for steering the discussions among industry actors towards shared knowledge about the technological, social, economic and political changes needed at the industry level to optimize the benefits of digitalization. Our findings also show that boundary spanners apply scenario figures as boundary objects to cross knowledge boundaries. Based on our findings, we theoretically conceptualize scenario planning as a boundary-spanning activity that enables AEC decision-makers from different fields to share tacit knowledge and to cross knowledge boundaries. The practical implication is that scenario planning provides a method for AEC decision-makers to make sense of the changes needed to realize the preferred future for the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 635-650
Issue: 11
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1476729
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1476729
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:11:p:635-650
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Bresnen
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Bresnen
Title: Being careful what we wish for? Challenges and opportunities afforded through engagement with business and management research
Abstract:
Despite the proliferation of work within construction management that draws upon management and organizational theory, two omissions stand out from the body of published work: the absence of any real debate about the values of rigour and relevance in research; and the under-use of dominant perspectives in business and management research (such as institutional theory) to frame construction management and organizational issues. Drawing specifically upon the ideas of institutional logics and institutional work, this paper explores the tensions, ironies and contradictions of the rigour-relevance debate; and the challenges and opportunities facing construction management research (CMR) and its institutions in furthering management and organizational research agendas. In doing so, attention is directed to the complex, contested and changing nature of the knowledge base within the business and management field; as well as key differences between that community of practice and CMR.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 24-34
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1270462
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1270462
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:1-2:p:24-34
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Title: Why is management research irrelevant?
Abstract:
At least since 1980, there has been a practically continuous, but somewhat fragmented discussion on the relevance of management research. This discussion has addressed practically all fields of management; here, besides general management, operations management, project management and construction management are examined in more detail. Although many different proposals have been made to rectify the situation, no definitive resolution has been found. In this paper, it is argued that prior analyses have not reached the root causes of the irrelevance problem. By an analysis of the recent history of management research, the following novel findings are reached. First, the root cause of the irrelevance is argued to lie in the 1959 reports on American business education, written by Pierson and Gordon & Howell. Second, while the proposed direction in the 1959 reports was deficient in several ways, the rejection of production as an integral part of organizations and management has been perhaps the most damaging feature of those reports. Third, current research on management suffers from a variety of immediate causes for irrelevance, insufficiently recognized by the scholarly community. It is suggested that reaching the root causes for irrelevance will facilitate finding suitable cures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 4-23
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1272759
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1272759
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:1-2:p:4-23
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styre
Title: Thinking about materiality: the value of a construction management and engineering view
Abstract:
The increased interest for materiality as an analytical category in the social sciences provide construction management and economics scholar with new possibilities to better exploit the detailed empirical data being collected in the construction industry and related fields. While constructivist and other idealist theories have tended to dominate the social sciences since at least the mid-sixties when the social sciences sought to release itself from the methodological dogmatism of the “hard sciences”, materiality is now recognized and subject to theorizing within different social science traditions. This article advocates a broad engagement with materiality within construction management research and presents a series of analytical concepts and empirical studies that stress how the built environment that human beings inhabit is far from passive, inert and stable as common sense thinking easily misleads analysts to believe. An image of materiality that recognizes an agential, dynamic and more fluid nature of materiality is thus arguably conducive to an intellectually stimulating construction management scholarship.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-44
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1272760
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1272760
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:1-2:p:35-44
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Vitaliy Priven
Author-X-Name-First: Vitaliy
Author-X-Name-Last: Priven
Author-Name: Jonathan Savosnick
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan
Author-X-Name-Last: Savosnick
Title: Construction flow index: a metric of production flow quality in construction
Abstract:
A new, process-oriented approach is needed in construction management. Lean construction emphasizes the concept of flow as a way to understand production in construction, yet there is still no accepted metric for measurement of flow quality. This has hampered research and practice. The proposed construction flow index (CFI) is a composite measure that reflects the quality of production flow in repetitive construction projects. It incorporates measures of work continuity for crews, processing continuity for locations, production rate variation, amounts of work in progress, interference and operation sequence logic. Expert knowledge was acquired to establish weights for the CFI parameters, and its use was tested in evaluating the planned and actual production flows for a number of projects. Project managers can use the CFI to evaluate the quality of their construction plans and to measure and communicate production flow quality status to trade crews, enabling management and improvement of production flow. The CFI is also a valuable tool for construction research. The CFI challenges traditional construction management by measuring flow, where standard practice only measures transformation (earned value). It challenges lean construction practice using the Last Planner System, suggesting that the percent plan complete measure of plan reliability is insufficient.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 45-63
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1274417
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1274417
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Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matthew R. Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Author-Name: Dillon Alexander
Author-X-Name-First: Dillon
Author-X-Name-Last: Alexander
Author-Name: John A. Gambatese
Author-X-Name-First: John A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gambatese
Title: Energy-based safety risk assessment: does magnitude and intensity of energy predict injury severity?
Abstract:
Although the quantity and quality of safety risk data have improved in recent years, available data do not link directly to natural principles and are, therefore, limited in their application and scientific extension. The present study aims to test the hypothesis that the quantity and intensity of energy observable prior to an incident predicts the severity of the incident. The hypothesis is built upon the theory that energy is translated to an injury through uncontrolled release of the energy, transfer of the energy to the human body and the vulnerability of the body and associated protective equipment. To test the hypothesis, a multi-phase experiment was conducted. First, over 500 injury reports were gathered from national databases and private companies. For each report, the leading information describing the work operations and environment and the lagging information describing the injury were extracted, separated and isolated. Second, the magnitude of the energy was estimated using only leading information. Once energy magnitude was quantified, the distribution was compared across injury severity levels using analysis of variance tests. As hypothesized, energy magnitude is a strong predictor of injury severity. Although computationally intensive, energy intensity, defined as the magnitude of energy divided by the area of contact between an object and the human body, showed strong predictive validity. This research indicates that energy-based safety risk analysis has predictive validity and is a promising line of scientific inquiry with the potential to increase our understanding of the natural phenomena that contribute to injuries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 64-77
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1274418
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1274418
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:1-2:p:64-77
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Construction Management and Economics: New Directions
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-3
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1275159
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1275159
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:1-2:p:1-3
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel John Sage
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel John
Author-X-Name-Last: Sage
Title: Rethinking construction expertise with posthumanism
Abstract:
Expertise is commonly understood to be a distinct, even defining, aspect of being human: an attribute related to our efficacies to come to know and influence the, mostly non-human, world around us. In construction, expertise is commonly defined as the acquisition of skills and knowledge related to new technical processes, organizational routines, health and safety codes, even cultural norms. Despite the development of rule-following ‘expert systems’ in construction and beyond, the proposal that non-human technologies and artefacts can share our expertise is thus to be regarded with doubt: humans are human because of their lived expertise to undertake tasks faster and better than machines and other non-humans. Increasingly, however, this anthropocentric view of expertise can be challenged by a ‘posthuman turn’ that is gathering pace across the social sciences and humanities. The work of four seminal posthuman thinkers is drawn upon to evaluate the distinct, and varied, contribution that posthumanism might make to how we understand notions of construction expertise. Fictional examples of construction practices illustrate the challenge and theoretical and practical opportunities in rethinking construction expertise via posthumanism.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 446-457
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1122201
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1122201
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:446-457
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Arjen Adriaanse
Author-X-Name-First: Arjen
Author-X-Name-Last: Adriaanse
Title: Engaged scholarship in construction management research: the adoption of information and communications technology in construction projects
Abstract:
The objective is to explore what engaged scholarship (ES) could mean for construction management research in facilitating interactions between practice and theory. ES aims to develop knowledge that advances both science and practice through engagement of scholars with practice. Three types of ES are discussed: practice research, design research and action research. These three kinds of ES are explained through their different knowledge–action relations: action theories or ‘knowledge about action’, design research or ‘knowledge for action’, and action research or ‘knowledge through action’. The relevance of these three types of ES in facilitating interactions between practice and theory is clarified through elaborating on a research programme on the adoption of information and communications technology (ICT) in construction projects. First, based on grounded theory, a model is developed to understand and explain why individuals and organizations are (not) using ICT in the intended way. Second, based on this model and expert interviews, solutions are designed to potential barriers to the successful use of ICT in construction projects. Third, interventions in construction projects based on these solutions are presented. It is argued that the different kinds of ES presuppose each other and are all needed to facilitate interactions between practice and theory in construction management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 536-551
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1139145
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1139145
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:536-551
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sittimont Kanjanabootra
Author-X-Name-First: Sittimont
Author-X-Name-Last: Kanjanabootra
Author-Name: Brian Corbitt
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Corbitt
Title: Reproducing knowledge in construction expertise: a reflexive theory, critical approach
Abstract:
An auto-ethnography and then analyses of narratives and ethnographies of other construction professionals are used to argue that reproduction of knowledge and expertise development is constrained by both normative professional thinking and a discourse of economic constraint generated by a highly competitive marketplace with a focus on time, cost, and quality trade-offs. The analysis of construction professionals’ narratives suggests that expertise development in construction is essentially an incremental process built on scenarios and influenced mostly by context and people, discourses of practices, legalities and professional expectations. Sometimes that incrementalism is distorted through radical innovation, but that is rare. Construction expertise in these stories is reproduced from base level learning and grows through practice. Practitioners, it is argued, accumulate knowledge and expertise, but the practice that emanates remains bounded within prevailing discourse which itself changes incrementally.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 561-577
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1151064
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1151064
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:561-577
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lloyd M. Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Lloyd M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Title: Theory and research in construction education: the case for pragmatism
Abstract:
The education of the construction professional, like many others, has been shaped and nurtured by well-intentioned educationalists throughout the ages. While there has been much discourse around the theoretical underpinnings of construction education, not much has been set in writing. A philosophical position has not always been to the forefront of those pioneering and well-intentioned construction educationalists. There has been, rather, a ‘systems thinking’ approach, a sense of wanting to prepare an educational experience that would equip the future leaders in construction to ensure they would develop the knowledge, skills and competences to take their place in an ever-changing architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry. Now, at least around Europe, there is an ever-increasing attempt to identify the paradigms within which construction education sits comfortably, thus attempting to pave the way for the future. This could be called a philosophical positioning. There follows an exploration of the evolution of the education of the construction professional through a review of the literature and other sources in an attempt to make some sense of this journey. The paper also presents the discourse from the educational research perspective where the connection between the role of theory and philosophy has been a matter of discussion for many years. Biesta in his work calls for the intelligent use of theory and philosophy and advocates pragmatic positioning in regard to discourse. This pragmatic framework offers the freedom to gain control over what construction education constitutes as it offers a way of thinking that allows the educationalist freedom to challenge. What is presented and debated is the discussion that has been documented with a view to offering some perspective on its importance. Some philosophical perspective is also offered around the developments with the added suggestion that AEC is firmly seated in the ‘pragmatic’ paradigm. Much progress has been achieved to date but it is now time to offer a possible further step forward. While a pragmatic philosophical position is suggested it is not to imply that this is the only tool that might be used. The freedom to work within the pragmatic paradigm offers diversity that can draw together some of the thoughts that challenge and build the arguments about the role and position of theory in construction education.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 552-560
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1151539
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1151539
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:552-560
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Kokkonen
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Kokkonen
Author-Name: Pauli Alin
Author-X-Name-First: Pauli
Author-X-Name-Last: Alin
Title: Practitioners deconstructing and reconstructing practices when responding to the implementation of BIM
Abstract:
When managers are implementing change, practitioners are sometimes seen as the receivers of the change. However, practitioners often need to actively create the changes to daily practices because managers might not be familiar with the practices. Building information modelling (BIM), an important driver of organizational change, requires change not only by bringing new technology into use but also to the practices of collaboration between different professions. In their daily work, practitioners can create new practices through reflective learning. We have a limited understanding of how practitioners are actively involved in a change through reflective learning when implementing BIM. To address this limitation, we conducted a qualitative case study. Our primary data consist of interviews, which were analysed with insights from philosophy. We identified two methods of reflective learning from the data: deconstruction and reconstruction. Deconstruction occurs when the new requirements for the practices are based on different ideas of work, which asks practitioners to change their old ideas before creating new practices. Reconstruction does not necessarily require changes to the basic ideas of work but changes are seen more as improvements. Our research contributes to construction management literature by linking the reflective learning of practitioners to the change caused by BIM.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 578-591
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1164327
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1164327
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:578-591
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sidney Newton
Author-X-Name-First: Sidney
Author-X-Name-Last: Newton
Title: The being of construction management expertise
Abstract:
Where logical positivism potentially leads to abstraction, social constructivism potentially leads to relativism. Neither perspective does full justice to the study of construction management expertise. Social realism aims to recover declarative knowledge (theory) as an integral component of expertise without denying a place for deliberate practice. The issue is how to bridge between explicit and implicit forms of knowledge. Returning to the account of tacit knowing proposed by Polanyi, the nature of expertise is characterized in both declarative and personal knowledge terms. This is a limited characterization of expertise, but the social realism enterprise raises a number of critical issues: the body of knowledge; human agency; and deliberate practice. From a social realism perspective the production of theory is critical to the exercise of expertise, but theory is meaningless in the context of professional practice unless and until it is embodied and enacted. It is the being of construction management that gives purpose and value to the theory.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 458-470
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1164328
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1164328
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:458-470
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Karen Mogendorff
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Mogendorff
Title: The building or enactment of expertise in context: what the performative turn in the social sciences may add to expertise research in construction management
Abstract:
Expertise tends to be seen as something people possess: one needs to have the knowledge, skills and competences to be able to do a job well, preferably better than others, under various conditions. In practice not all objectively relevant knowledge and expertise gets endorsed as such. In multi-party settings different forms of expertise tend to compete with one another. The latter is certainly true for the construction sector in which parties with different backgrounds, stakes and interests work together in order to create or maintain buildings and infrastructural works. Existing knowledge and expertise need to be performed in order to get treated as relevant to the interactional business at hand by the people one collaborates with. Whose expertise is treated as most salient may differ across interaction settings that make up the different phases of a project. So far, however, what expertise is treated as relevant when in the day-to-day management of construction projects and the effects thereof have been understudied. The argument put forward is that expertise research informed by the performative turn in the social sciences may enrich the construction management research agenda. Performative studies tend to further insight in what expertise ends up to being treated as relevant when in actual practice, e.g. by researching how various expertises are discursively positioned relative to one another in multi-party settings. Insight into how and when existing expertise counts may be of help in developing strategies to ensure that expertise that is considered relevant but is underused in practice may be optimally deployed in the future. General directions are provided for how expertise may be researched from a performative perspective in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 484-491
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1164329
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1164329
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:484-491
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eva Marie P. Gacasan
Author-X-Name-First: Eva Marie P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gacasan
Author-Name: Mark W. Wiggins
Author-X-Name-First: Mark W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wiggins
Author-Name: Ben J. Searle
Author-X-Name-First: Ben J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Searle
Title: The role of cues in expert project manager sensemaking
Abstract:
Sensemaking forms the foundation of expertise as it comprises the initial stage of information processing that influences judgement and decision-making. Two related studies were undertaken to investigate the role of cues in the context of expert project management. First, a qualitative study was conducted using the critical incident technique and involving nine project managers who had successfully delivered projects. The data were analysed by identifying the critical incidents and the associated cues that were used as the basis of sensemaking in project-related situations. These cues converged into three categories: feedback, context cues and tacit knowledge. The second study examined the construct validity of the cues that emerged in Study 1 using a cue utilization scale that was administered through an online survey. There were 23 experienced project managers and 78 naïve participants who participated in the study. Differences in patterns of cue utilization were evident between the two cohorts based on the perceived levels of project complexity and project phases. The research outcomes offer empirical support for the relationship between cues and sensemaking in project management, and provide a basis for further research into the acquisition of sensemaking skills and the development of cue-based training initiatives to facilitate the progression towards expert project management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 492-507
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1177190
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1177190
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:492-507
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Author-Name: Petra Bosch-Sijtsema
Author-X-Name-First: Petra
Author-X-Name-Last: Bosch-Sijtsema
Title: Conceptualizing environmental expertise through the lens of institutional work
Abstract:
Although a growing number of environmental experts have entered the scene within the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, studies of environmental experts’ role and agency remain limited. In order to gain more clarity regarding the agency of environmental experts in relation to construction project practice the theoretical lens of institutional work is applied. A multidimensional framework, linking agency with three forms of institutional work, is used in a conceptual discussion on how environmental experts adopt various types of agency to influence institutional change towards a sustainable development of the AEC industry. Due to the fragmented and distributed project-based environment, the application of institutional work in the AEC industry uncovers tensions between various forms of institutional work processes. A dynamic model is therefore suggested to capture these tensions. Besides illustrating tensions, the model envisions the locked-in maintaining of institutions performed by iterative and practical-evaluative agency.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 522-535
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1177191
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1177191
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:522-535
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark Addis
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Addis
Title: Tacit and explicit knowledge in construction management
Abstract:
In construction, better practice has been sought through the employment of knowledge management. Interest in tacit knowledge has grown due to its importance for raising performance at all organizational levels. Aspects of the limits which tacit knowledge places on knowledge management approaches in construction are considered with the focus being upon broad knowledge management categories rather than the details of particular methods. The distinction between knowing how and knowing that coupled with examination of whether the main mode of knowing is tacit or explicit is used to analyse the relationship between tacit and explicit knowledge in construction. There are significant general theoretical difficulties with incorporating tacit knowledge into the objectivist knowledge management approaches which predominate in construction particularly since methods for converting tacit to explicit knowledge are problematic. Improving performance requires appreciating the limitations of objectivist and practice-based knowledge management within the context of construction projects as the consideration of performance management measures illustrates.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 439-445
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1180416
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1180416
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:439-445
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ani Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Title: Horseplay, care and hands on hard work: gendered strategies of a project manager on a construction site
Abstract:
The discourse of managerial expertise favours rational analysis and masculine ideals but contemporary management literature also recognises the value of well-being and employee voice in the workplace. Drawing upon narrative analysis of interview data, we share unique insights into the lived experiences of Laura, one female project manager who recently managed a construction site in the Midlands in the UK. In contrast to previous research which indicates that female managers tend to conform to quite a traditional set of gender behaviours, Laura embraces a range of workplace appropriate gendered strategies, such as hard work and horseplay, together with sensitivity and caring. She draws from this mix of gendered strategies in negotiating between two different discourses of construction: one professional and one tough and practical. Her behaviour both reproduces the masculine ideals (through horseplay and heroic management) and opens up possibilities for modernizing construction management (by caring). It is this combination of strategies that is at the heart of tacit expertise for Laura. Theoretically, the discussion adds to the development of a more nuanced understanding of management expertise as situated and person-specific knowledge that draws on both the explicit and tacit. Specifically, the centrality of gendered strategies beyond the masculine ideals to success on site is highlighted.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 508-521
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1182637
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1182637
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:508-521
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Expert knowledge in the making: using a processual lens to examine expertise in construction
Abstract:
Expertise in construction has typically been associated with the esoteric, where experts occupy privileged positions through their possession of specialist skills and knowledge. In this conceptual piece, an attempt is made to broaden this view of expertise found in the construction management literature by drawing on a reading of the process philosophical writings of Henri Bergson and others. Re-reading expertise from a processual standpoint, it is argued that our conceptualization of expertise in construction management should move beyond its treatment as a thing to bring to the fore expertise as an open-ended, ongoing, ever-evolving process of becoming. At the heart of this ontological shift of expertise in construction lies the emphasis on the tacit and recognition that expertise is, at the same time, interactional, intuitive and incidental. These ideas are illustrated in a vignette of environmental expertise in an airport context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 471-483
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1190851
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1190851
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:471-483
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bingunath Ingirige
Author-X-Name-First: Bingunath
Author-X-Name-Last: Ingirige
Title: Theorizing construction industry practice within a disaster risk reduction setting: is it a panacea or an illusion?
Abstract:
Construction industry practice is strongly influenced by the culture surrounding its operations and, with the prevailing emphasis on achieving efficiency, there is a strong focus on outcome metrics such as profitability and employee productivity. With the recent increases in natural hazard events worldwide, and the likelihood that this will worsen still further with anticipated climate changes, the industry is increasingly contributing to building resilience within disaster-affected communities. Existing industry expertise, its educational approaches and the related theoretical frameworks, however, all require adjustment if these changing needs are to be fully addressed. Most importantly, an agenda shift is required from the philosophical side and a more pragmatic approach is needed if community resilience goals and objectives are to be met, rather than the narrower focus of the current metrics-driven management system. A synthesis of the current literature is therefore presented, along with relevant case histories illustrating how such an agenda shift within a disaster management context may influence the development of appropriate theory, as well as impacting upon grass-roots educational requirements. The research concludes by discussing how the ‘mainstreaming’ of disaster management within construction industry practice could drive forward developments in theorizing expertise and educational provisions across the constituent disciplines.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 592-607
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200735
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200735
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:592-607
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mark Addis
Author-X-Name-First: Mark
Author-X-Name-Last: Addis
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Author-Name: Ani Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Title: Special Issue: Theorizing Expertise in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-438
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1204801
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1204801
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:7-8:p:433-438
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michael Falta
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Falta
Author-Name: Natalie Gallery
Author-X-Name-First: Natalie
Author-X-Name-Last: Gallery
Title: Unintended consequences of regulatory reporting requirements for small and medium size construction entities: Australian evidence
Abstract: The Queensland Building Services Authority (QBSA) regulates the construction industry in Queensland, Australia, with licensing requirements creating differential financial reporting obligations, depending on firm size. Economic theories of regulation and behaviour provide a framework for investigating effects of the financial constraints and financial reporting requirements imposed by QBSA licensing. Data are analysed for all small and medium construction entities operating in Queensland between 2001 and 2006. Findings suggesting that construction licensees are categorizing themselves as smaller to avoid the more onerous and costly financial reporting of higher licensee categories are consistent with US findings from the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) regulation which created incentives for small firms to stay small to avoid the costs of compliance with more onerous financial reporting requirements. Such behaviour can have the undesirable economic consequences of adversely affecting employment, investment, wealth creation and financial stability. Insights and implications from the analysed QBSA processes are important for future policy reform and design, and useful to be considered where similar regulatory approaches are planned.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1121-1135
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.635666
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.635666
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1121-1135
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: X.-X. Yuan
Author-X-Name-First: X.-X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuan
Title: A correlated bidding model for markup size decisions
Abstract: Whereas competitive bidding models have been studied for more than five decades with many factors being considered and statistical methods proposed, the correlation among bids of different companies and its effects on markup decisions have not been explored. Through a multivariate competitive bidding model, the significance of the correlation is investigated in this paper. Mechanistic arguments and probabilistic analysis based on a breakdown of cost estimates show that bid ratios are positively correlated to one another. This fact is then incorporated as a priori information into a Bayesian statistical method to estimate the correlation coefficients from historical data with missing values. The effectiveness of the proposed Bayesian method has been demonstrated through a case study. The proposed bidding model has a flexible mathematical structure, which allows one to better characterize actual varying bidding patterns. It also includes the Friedman and Carr models as its special cases. Moreover, through the use of the streamlined Bayesian method, the new model can be implemented easily in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1101-1119
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.637568
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.637568
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1101-1119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wei Pan
Author-X-Name-First: Wei
Author-X-Name-Last: Pan
Author-Name: Robert Sidwell
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Sidwell
Title: Demystifying the cost barriers to offsite construction in the UK
Abstract: Offsite construction has long been reported as an effective alternative to conventional construction, with wide-ranging benefits. However, a wider take-up has been inhibited by perceived cost barriers which are insufficiently studied. Such cost barriers are addressed, drawing on an examination of the cost performance of four types of construction method: pre-cast concrete cross-wall panel, in-situ reinforced concrete (RC) frame, steel frame and timber frame. Data were collected for 20 medium to high rise residential buildings of eight projects by a leading UK housebuilder over a five-year period (2004–08). In all cases, detailed cost comparisons were completed for build method selection. Cross-wall was found to be consistently cheaper than RC frame or steel frame by 11% to 32% in the projects. The process of developing and innovating cross-wall technology led to sustained cost savings up to 25% from its first use. Cross-wall construction also improved cost effectiveness of 20-storey high rise buildings over other solutions. Cost engineering means for achieving cost reduction and effectiveness are identified, which included efficiency learning, technological innovation, multinational partnering, and ‘in-house’ build management. The results prove the logic of the experience curve in improving the cost efficiency of offsite construction, and should encourage offsite construction in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1081-1099
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.637938
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.637938
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1081-1099
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kaixun Sha
Author-X-Name-First: Kaixun
Author-X-Name-Last: Sha
Title: Vertical governance of construction projects: an information cost perspective
Abstract: A research framework is developed to analyse the vertical governance, or transaction relationships between the client and its first-tier suppliers of construction projects in terms of project procurement route and payment terms. Starting from the particularity of the construction industry, reduced treatments that Williamson used in governance structure analysis are revised, and an assumption of ‘second-order transformation’ is proposed: as the information gap reaches a given level, and the proportion of specialized knowledge to deal with uncertainty exceeds a certain degree, the approach of selecting the governance structure of construction projects might deviate from the path anticipated by canonical theories. Both uncertainty and information cost are included in the analysis framework, and a principal–agent model is developed to analyse the procurement route and payment terms of construction projects. It is concluded that the information gap and the relative cost coefficient of information are decisive factors that determine the vertical governance structure of construction projects. They determine not only the time when ‘second-order transformation’ occurs, but also the distribution of ‘weak incentive regions’.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1137-1147
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.637939
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.637939
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1137-1147
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Title: Mediation in the Construction Industry: An International Review
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1175-1177
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.639378
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.639378
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1175-1177
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ekaterina Osipova
Author-X-Name-First: Ekaterina
Author-X-Name-Last: Osipova
Author-Name: Per Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: How procurement options influence risk management in construction projects
Abstract: Before proceeding with a project, a client has to choose an appropriate procurement option that facilitates an effective project organization in general and a thorough risk management process in particular. By identifying three procurement variables that have a major influence on risk management: project delivery method, form of payment, and use of collaboration or partnering arrangements, the effect of each variable is studied. An exploratory study and a series of interviews with clients, contractors and consultants involved in 11 Swedish construction projects, were performed in order to examine how risk management was carried out in each project. Irrespective of the procurement option, many projects suffered from variations in cost affecting one or more actors. Risk management was not carried out systematically throughout project phases. However, in the projects with early involvement of the actors, their participation throughout the project, and opportunities for open dialogue and collaboration, a more thorough risk management process was found. While project delivery methods define formal risk allocation, the use of incentives and collaboration or partnering arrangements help to establish a collaborative approach to risk management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1149-1158
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.639379
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.639379
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1149-1158
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Elizabeth Jordan
Author-X-Name-First: Elizabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Jordan
Author-Name: Martha Gross
Author-X-Name-First: Martha
Author-X-Name-Last: Gross
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Author-Name: Michael Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Title: Use and misuse of qualitative comparative analysis
Abstract: Research in construction is often confronted with a trade-off of selecting either in-depth studies of small-N cases, which may affect generalization of findings, or statistical large-N studies, which may limit examination of causal links. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) provides a middle ground between these options, allowing researchers to analytically determine different combinations of conditions that produce an outcome in comparative studies. QCA has been applied extensively in other fields; however, the method has only recently started to gain traction in construction research. Guidance on the implementation of QCA is provided, including: a description of the method and its variants; stages required for its application; its benefits and critiques; applications in the construction field; and recommendations for scholars employing the method. QCA is a promising approach for probing causal links via investigations between variable-based, large-N analyses and qualitative, case-based, small-N studies. However, researchers must not use the method in haste or simply to obtain quantitative results from qualitative data. It requires significant time and rigour to determine and justify the conditions, outcomes and cases used in its application. QCA is well suited for research where interactions between conditions and outcomes are not well understood and can be used to build theory in the complex environment of construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1159-1173
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.640339
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.640339
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1159-1173
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1079-1080
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.643655
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.643655
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1079-1080
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Forthcoming events
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1179-1179
Issue: 11
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.643657
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.643657
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:11:p:1179-1179
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Niamh Murtagh
Author-X-Name-First: Niamh
Author-X-Name-Last: Murtagh
Author-Name: Loulwa Achkar
Author-X-Name-First: Loulwa
Author-X-Name-Last: Achkar
Author-Name: Aeli Roberts
Author-X-Name-First: Aeli
Author-X-Name-Last: Roberts
Title: The role of building control surveyors and their power in promoting sustainable construction
Abstract:
In England, building regulations govern aspects of a building’s environmental performance. The Building Control Surveyor reviews designs and on-site construction in order to evaluate, and ultimately certify, compliance with the regulations, but little research has been carried out to investigate the role of these professionals in promoting sustainable construction. A qualitative study was conducted, comprising semi-structured interviews with 21 building control surveyors and 4 key informants from professional bodies in England. The building surveyors initially positioned their power as wholly derived from the regulations, thus constraining their contribution on sustainability to regulation enforcement. However, this stood in contradiction to their recognition of being valued and influential members of the project team. Descriptions of day-to-day activities included sharing common goals with the team, providing guidance based on their knowledge and experience, and developing collaborative relationships. Based on theories of power, these practices may be seen as processes of power. The primary conclusion is that building control surveyors are indeed powerful in the project team, and, with greater recognition of the varied forms of power available to them above and beyond regulatory certification, they could extend their influence in daily working interactions to promote more sustainable construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 363-374
Issue: 7
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1397721
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1397721
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:7:p:363-374
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sherif Zedan
Author-X-Name-First: Sherif
Author-X-Name-Last: Zedan
Author-Name: Wendy Miller
Author-X-Name-First: Wendy
Author-X-Name-Last: Miller
Title: Quantifying stakeholders’ influence on energy efficiency of housing: development and application of a four-step methodology
Abstract:
Identifying stakeholders’ influence on project outcomes, prioritizing their importance and managing their interests accordingly is an effective strategy for maximizing benefits for organizations. Quantifying the influence of stakeholders on energy efficiency of housing allows for the development of an engagement plan that takes into consideration stakeholders’ diverse goals, needs, levels of expertise, knowledge, authority, connectivity and closeness to decision-making processes throughout the different stages of the housing procurement. We present a theoretical approach for quantifying the influence of stakeholders on the thermal performance of housing. The quantification methodology builds on a number of stakeholder management approaches and is applied to Australian case studies for reflection and sense making. The quantification of the degree of influence is calculated by combining the rankings of stakeholders in six attributes that affect their influence on a building’s energy efficiency outcomes. Quantifying human influence on buildings’ energy efficiency can help future researchers and housing industry stakeholders in integrating the human aspect with technological, technical, economic and regulatory aspects to optimize the performance outcomes of energy efficient housing.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 375-393
Issue: 7
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1411599
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1411599
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:7:p:375-393
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Barraket
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Barraket
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Co-creating social value through cross-sector collaboration between social enterprises and the construction industry
Abstract:
Emerging social procurement imperatives are driving new forms of cross-sector collaboration between private, public and social enterprise sectors in the construction industry. Yet there is little understanding of how and why social enterprises and private construction firms collaborate in meeting new social procurement imperatives and of the institutional and organizational factors shape these practices. Drawing on theoretical insights from governance, management and policy studies and three case studies of major organizations from across the construction social value chain, the organizational and institutional factors that drive cross-sector collaborations are explored. Documentary analysis of social procurement strategy and policy, non-participant observation of social procurement initiatives in action and in-depth interviews with senior social procurement champions suggest that existing processes of social value co-creation through supply chain relationships more closely reflect a cooperative than a collaborative model, are largely driven by commercial concerns and influenced by industry norms and institutional imperatives. It is concluded that there are significant differences in experience and opportunity for collaboration based on supply chain position and organizational scale and that these have notable effects on the co-creation of social value and the legitimacy of different social benefit providers in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 394-408
Issue: 7
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1416152
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1416152
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:7:p:394-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: F.T.T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: F.T.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: The role of organizational climate in socially embedding construction firms’ sustainability goals
Abstract:
Despite the growing interest in sustainability research, little scholarly attention, both conceptual and empirical, has been given to assessing the individual-level behavioural issues that affect sustainability outcomes. Still less research is undertaken to examine the mechanisms by which construction firms enable their sustainability goals to be socially embedded within their organizations to shape the behaviour and attitudes of employees. In an attempt to fill this gap, this paper draws from the extensive literature on organizational climate perspective to explain how organizational-level characteristics and processes can result in a strong, conducive climate that fosters shared perceptions and guide behaviours that are fundamental to the attainment of sustainability goals in organizations. From the critical review of this literature, this paper offers three research propositions and avenues in which they could be tested. The paper concludes with a broadened discussion of the theoretical and practical implications this framework has on advancing the sustainability discourse within CM discipline beyond the current largely technical, policy and institutional foci.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-421
Issue: 7
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1424348
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1424348
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:7:p:409-421
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dilek U. Duman
Author-X-Name-First: Dilek U.
Author-X-Name-Last: Duman
Author-Name: Stuart D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: Graeme D. Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Historical narratives as strategic resources: analysis of the Turkish international contracting sector
Abstract:
The Turkish contracting sector has an enviable reputation for operating in high-risk international markets. The sector’s ability to respond to market instability could meaningfully be construed as sectoral-level capability. We aim to demonstrate how history can be mobilised in a formalised “strategy text” to create a strategic narrative on the sectoral level. The Geography of Contractors as published by the Turkish Contractors Association (TCA) ostensively portrays the strategic development of Turkish international contractors over four decades. Such quasi-historical narratives are routinely mobilised for the purposes of creating a shared memory on the sectoral level. The chosen strategy text draws from multiple narrative fragments derived from past experience to generate a strategic agenda for the future. The representation given to multiple voices reflects the pluralistic nature of strategy making praxis. The overarching strategy narrative reflects a performative intent in legitimising some practices whilst discrediting others. Narrative analysis demonstrates the way in which actors, actions and events are positioned within a plot structure, with direct implications for the enactment of future strategic practices. The findings suggest that strategic actions can only ever be identified in retrospect and that such arguments are always made with an eye on the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 367-383
Issue: 7
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1529416
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1529416
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:7:p:367-383
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Long D. Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Long D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Long Le-Hoai
Author-X-Name-First: Long
Author-X-Name-Last: Le-Hoai
Author-Name: Dai Q. Tran
Author-X-Name-First: Dai Q.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tran
Author-Name: Chau N. Dang
Author-X-Name-First: Chau N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dang
Author-Name: Chau V. Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Chau V.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Title: Effect of project complexity on cost and schedule performance in transportation projects
Abstract:
Project complexity is a contributing factor to project performance. Understanding how project complexity interacts with management actions and project performance is imperative. This study fills this knowledge gap by empirically exploring the relationship between construction project complexity and project performance and their interaction with resource allocation. Empirical data were collected from 79 transportation projects. Due to its capability to build several regression models by adding independent variables to previous models, moderated hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to identify the underlying effect of resource allocation on the project complexity and performance relationship. The results show that: (i) project complexity was significantly correlated with schedule growth (positive correlation) but not significantly correlated with cost growth; (ii) resource allocation was significantly correlated with schedule growth (negative correlation) but not with cost growth; and (iii) resource allocation had a buffering effect where increasing resource allocation significantly decreases the effect of project complexity on schedule growth. The findings from this study contribute to the extant literature on construction project complexity by empirically showing that the impact of project complexity on schedule performance interacts with the level of resource allocation. This understanding of the role of resource allocation may help construction managers and engineers to better administer and manage their complex transportation projects. The findings also imply that organizations should appropriately evaluate project complexity to allocate necessary resources to achieve project success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 384-399
Issue: 7
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1532592
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1532592
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:7:p:384-399
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bethan Morgan
Author-X-Name-First: Bethan
Author-X-Name-Last: Morgan
Title: Organizing for digitalization through mutual constitution: the case of a design firm
Abstract:
As the pace of digital change accelerates, so the ability of firms in the construction industry to organize for digitalization is becoming increasingly important. While extant research identifies the diffusion of digital innovations in firms as a non-linear process influenced by embedded contextual elements stemming from several complex social systems, it does not address the relationship between these social systems. A longitudinal embedded case of the process followed by one incumbent firm as it adopts building information modelling (BIM) is presented. Data covers a 15-year period and charts the adoption process at multiple levels: user, firm and institution. The case supports existing research by showing that BIM adoption in the firm is successful through a combination of actions involving 1) investment and leadership support, 2) standards and policies and 3) training and skills development. Drawing on Gidden’s Structuration Theory, it contributes to this research by finding that the adoption of BIM is facilitated by a mutually constitutive relationship between user, firm and institution. Firms play a central role in enabling this relationship, by both attending to and enabling endogenous user-led change while seeking to influence exogenous institutional change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 400-417
Issue: 7
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1538560
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1538560
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:7:p:400-417
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Title: Maintaining a relevant construction management and economics research community
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 693-696
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1687992
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1687992
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:693-696
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Francisco Pinheiro Catalão
Author-X-Name-First: Francisco
Author-X-Name-Last: Pinheiro Catalão
Author-Name: Carlos Oliveira Cruz
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Oliveira
Author-X-Name-Last: Cruz
Author-Name: Joaquim Miranda Sarmento
Author-X-Name-First: Joaquim
Author-X-Name-Last: Miranda Sarmento
Title: Exogenous determinants of cost deviations and overruns in local infrastructure projects
Abstract:
There is a significant concern about cost deviations and overruns in public projects, particularly by the local governments. The magnitude of expenditure on these infrastructure projects justifies the search for cost deviation reasons, particularly cost overruns. The existing literature also identifies a tendency towards cost overruns in infrastructure projects. However, the analysis of cost overruns determinants has mostly focused on endogenous project characteristics.This research uses a dataset of 4,305 public infrastructure projects, of which 3,338 are local projects, carried out in Portugal between 1980 and 2012. Exogenous determinants (e.g. political, institutional and governance, and economic-related) are also considered in the analysis. An average cost overrun of 19% (9 billion Euros in volume, with a 1 billion Euros overrun) is identified. It is found that central governments incur on an average cost overrun of 23% and local governments on 6%. The analysis confirmed that projects developed by local governments tend to perform better regarding cost deviations and overruns and that exogenous determinants (particularly the political, institutional and governance environment ones) have a strong impact on cost deviations and overruns. These findings on exogenous factors can help local governments to make better management decisions, enhancing governance and institutional frameworks to improve the decision-making process when launching new infrastructure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 697-711
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1576915
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1576915
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:697-711
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Galvin
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Galvin
Author-Name: Stephane Tywoniak
Author-X-Name-First: Stephane
Author-X-Name-Last: Tywoniak
Title: How organizational boundary choices impact capability development
Abstract:
As construction-oriented public sector agencies have outsourced more and more of their construction-related activities, they have often suffered from an inability to provide appropriate oversight due to degraded capabilities. This had led to calls for these agencies to rebuild capabilities across different technical areas. A firm’s boundary choices—make, buy, ally and dual modes (make and buy simultaneously)—may impact the ability of a firm to maintain and even build new capabilities, and in this article, we seek to investigate the impact that boundary choices have upon rebuilding capabilities and the extent to which organizations may make sub-optimal choices economically to potentially create opportunities for learning and knowledge sharing. Using qualitative data from three project-based public sector organizations managing large construction projects, we observed that neither pure make nor buy decisions assisted significantly in capability building. Dual modes provided firms with some opportunities to build capabilities, but the most successful decisions seemed to occur in respect of using intermediate governance modes such as alliances. We also observed that the boundary choice was just one dimension of the capability building process and suggest organizations require a multi-pronged strategy to rebuild capabilities over time.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 712-726
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1582789
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1582789
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:712-726
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abhilasha Panwar
Author-X-Name-First: Abhilasha
Author-X-Name-Last: Panwar
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: A many-objective optimization model for construction scheduling
Abstract:
In recent years, the number of stakeholders of construction projects has significantly increased; this has required the simultaneous achievement of competing objectives, such as reductions in the time, cost, resources, and environmental impact of a project, for example. In order to achieve a balance between these objectives, several multiple-objective construction scheduling models have been reported in the literature. However, several challenges have been encountered, due to the complexities of modelling and visualizing more than three objectives simultaneously. Some of these challenges are addressed in this work via the development of a many-objective scheduling model (MOSM) based on a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm for the simultaneous optimization of four objectives: time, cost, resources and environmental impact. Coordinate plots are used to visualize the trade-offs made between all four of these objectives. A weighted sum is introduced that offers the project team the freedom to choose an optimal solution, depending on the specific priorities of the project, and the practical application of the model is demonstrated via a case study. Our MOSM allows the optimal outcome to be achieved in construction projects with multiple objectives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 727-739
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1590615
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1590615
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:727-739
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Author index for volume 37 (2019)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 740-740
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1690747
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1690747
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:740-740
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Thanks to our reviewers
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 741-741
Issue: 12
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1691287
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1691287
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:12:p:741-741
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wendy Guthrie
Author-X-Name-First: Wendy
Author-X-Name-Last: Guthrie
Title: Responsible Corporate Strategy in Construction and Engineering: ‘Doing the Right Thing?’
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1073-1074
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.619993
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.619993
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1073-1074
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Graeme Larsen
Author-X-Name-First: Graeme
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsen
Title: Understanding the early stages of the innovation diffusion process: awareness, influence and communication networks
Abstract: The themes of awareness and influence within the innovation diffusion process are addressed. The innovation diffusion process is typically represented as stages, yet awareness and influence are somewhat under-represented in the literature. Awareness and influence are situated within the contextual setting of individual actors but also within the broader institutional forces. Understanding how actors become aware of an innovation and then how their opinion is influenced is important for creating a more innovation-active UK construction sector. Social network analysis is proposed as one technique for mapping how awareness and influence occur and what they look like as a network. Empirical data are gathered using two modes of enquiry. This is done through a pilot study consisting of chartered professionals and then through a case study organization as it attempted to diffuse an innovation. The analysis demonstrates significant variations across actors’ awareness and influence networks. It is argued that social network analysis can complement other research methods in order to present a richer picture of how actors become aware of innovations and where they draw their influences regarding adopting innovations. In summarizing the findings, a framework for understanding awareness and influence associated with innovation within the UK construction sector is presented. Finally, with the UK construction sector continually being encouraged to be innovative, understanding and managing an actor’s awareness and influence network will be beneficial. The overarching conclusion thus describes the need not only to build research capacity in this area but also to push the boundaries related to the research methods employed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 987-1002
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.619994
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.619994
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:987-1002
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jasper Mbachu
Author-X-Name-First: Jasper
Author-X-Name-Last: Mbachu
Title: Sources of contractor’s payment risks and cash flow problems in the New Zealand construction industry: project team’s perceptions of the risks and mitigation measures
Abstract: Little research is focused on payment risks which constitute the biggest obstacle to adequate cash flow and the contractor’s ability to successfully complete a project and maintain a viable business. To minimize risks and improve net cash flow in a project, the various ways in which the key stakeholders could contribute to the contractor’s payment risks and cash flow problems (the ‘problems’) were investigated along with the mitigation measures. Using a two-stage descriptive survey method, pilot interviews were conducted with contractors, subcontractors, project managers, designers and quantity surveyors (the ‘group’). A questionnaire was designed based on the constructs generated during unstructured pilot interviews and used to obtain feedback from 120 members of the ‘group’ through structured interviews. The feedback was analysed for risks using the multi-factor analytical technique. Results showed that employers were the most risky sources contributing 24% of the contractor’s ‘problems’ in a project. The contractors and subcontractors were evaluated as being ‘high’ risk sources contributing 19% and 17%, respectively. The consultants and suppliers were evaluated as ‘moderate’ and ‘very low’ risk sources, respectively, with overall 37% contribution. Ensuring valid payment and variation claims that are supported with well-documented evidence was a key mitigation measure suggested for addressing the critical risk factors attributed to the ‘group’. The findings could guide the project team’s risk management efforts, especially on how to efficiently allocate the available resources to address the risk factors with a view to achieving more satisfactory outcomes and profitability in a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1027-1041
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.623708
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.623708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1027-1041
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Temitope Egbelakin
Author-X-Name-First: Temitope
Author-X-Name-Last: Egbelakin
Author-Name: Suzanne Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Suzanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Author-Name: Regan Potangaroa
Author-X-Name-First: Regan
Author-X-Name-Last: Potangaroa
Author-Name: Jason Ingham
Author-X-Name-First: Jason
Author-X-Name-Last: Ingham
Title: Enhancing seismic risk mitigation decisions: a motivational approach
Abstract: Implementing seismic risk mitigation is a major challenge in many earthquake-prone regions, despite the availability of a significant number of risk reduction measures such as technical design solutions and regulatory frameworks that include building codes, policies and regulations necessary to facilitate successful risk reduction activities. However, building owners have been found unwilling to retrofit their earthquake-prone buildings. The objective of this research is to investigate how to enhance buildings owners’ earthquake hazard preparedness decisions by adopting a motivational approach in order to reduce their vulnerability to earthquake risks. A multiple case studies approach was adopted and interviews conducted with the various stakeholders involved in seismic adjustments decisions. Significant intrinsic and extrinsic interventions such as intensifying and promoting the use of critical awareness motivators, financial and property market-based incentives necessary to enhance building owners’ decisions were revealed from the analysis of the qualitative data. These revealed intrinsic and extrinsic interventions offer plausible explanations regarding how human motivational orientation can be used to influence disaster preparedness decisions by increasing the salience of seismic risk issues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1003-1016
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.629664
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.629664
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1003-1016
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Svetlana Olbina
Author-X-Name-First: Svetlana
Author-X-Name-Last: Olbina
Author-Name: Jimmie Hinze
Author-X-Name-First: Jimmie
Author-X-Name-Last: Hinze
Author-Name: Christopher Arduengo
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Arduengo
Title: Drug testing practices in the US construction industry in 2008
Abstract: Drug testing is an effective way to improve jobsite safety, productivity and profits. Since drug use impairs the abilities of construction workers, many construction companies have implemented drug testing policies. The research aim was to identify the current drug testing practices of construction contractors. The research objectives were to determine: (1) the extent of the implementation of drug testing; (2) testing practices being used; (3) testing methods being used; (4) the most frequently drugs used; and (5) the use and prevalence of adulterants to cheat on drug tests. In 2008 the data were collected through surveys sent to US construction firms that were randomly selected from the Blue Book of Building and Construction. The results show that drug use continues to be a concern although the extent of drug use has declined in recent years. Most of the firms conduct both pre-employment drug screening and random drug testing. Marijuana and cocaine are the primary drugs used. Urine analysis continues to be the most common drug test used, while other testing methods are being explored with some hesitance. Cheating on drug tests appears to be a major concern. The results show that there is a statistically significant relationship between drug usage and safety performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1043-1057
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.631553
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.631553
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1043-1057
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: James Wilkins
Author-X-Name-First: James
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkins
Title: Construction workers’ perceptions of health and safety training programmes
Abstract: As zero-accidents cultures expand in popularity, knowledge and implementation of safety regulations have become priorities for construction organizations. An expanded literature review revealed that many industry leaders have responded by increasing the frequency and content of health and safety training programmes; however the provision of training largely has remained consistent. Identifying workers’ conceptions of the training they receive is critical to the design and deployment of effective workplace education programmes. Utilizing a hybrid questionnaire of qualitative and quantitative components to assess perceptions and knowledge, data were collected from a sample (n = 121) representing construction professionals across the United States who had completed an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Training Course. The data described a workforce dissatisfied with training effectiveness and characterized a widespread situation in which the distinguishing characteristics of adult learning had not been addressed by qualified trainers. Strong health and safety training programmes improve employee retention as well as compliance with health and safety requirements. Trainees are more likely to respond positively to training programmes when adult learning theories are integrated into safety trainer readiness programmes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1017-1026
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.633538
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.633538
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1017-1026
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Willie Tan
Author-X-Name-First: Willie
Author-X-Name-Last: Tan
Title: Project Finance in Construction: A Structured Guide to Assessment
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1074-1075
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.636369
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.636369
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1074-1075
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cordelia Hee
Author-X-Name-First: Cordelia
Author-X-Name-Last: Hee
Author-Name: Florence Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Title: Strategies for reducing employee turnover and increasing retention rates of quantity surveyors
Abstract: Quantity surveyors (QS) play an important role in the construction industry. There is therefore a need to reduce their job turnover, by minimizing their intention to quit the job (turnover intention) and improving their job satisfaction. Turnover intention was operationalized as the number of years QS are likely to remain in the profession (Y1) and in their present firms (Y2). The aims are to investigate job and jobholder characteristics that significantly affect Y1 and Y2; and provide recommendations to reduce QS’ turnover intentions. Using questionnaire survey, data were collected via e-mail from randomly selected QS in Singapore. Correlation analysis revealed that to reduce turnover, QS should be given competitive monetary and non-monetary benefits, and autonomy in decision making. To reverse turnover intention of well-performing QS who are ensconced in their firms, firms could enrich QS’ jobs so that their growth needs are met and they feel a sense of accomplishment. Certain characteristics of QS and their jobs give rise to job satisfaction, and therefore designing quantity surveying jobs that take in these characteristics may decrease turnover intention. The relevant characteristics that should be included in the design of QS’ jobs to increase retention rates are task significance, autonomy and feedback.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1059-1072
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.637569
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.637569
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1059-1072
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 985-986
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.640177
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.640177
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:985-986
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Forthcoming events
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1077-1078
Issue: 10
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.640178
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.640178
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:10:p:1077-1078
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Meng Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Meng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Roger Flanagan
Author-X-Name-First: Roger
Author-X-Name-Last: Flanagan
Author-Name: Kunhui Ye
Author-X-Name-First: Kunhui
Author-X-Name-Last: Ye
Title: Diversification in the international construction business
Abstract:
Economic globalization has created an interdependent market that allows companies to transcend traditional national boundaries to conduct business overseas. In the international construction market, companies often adopt diversification as a strategy for growth, for risk management or for both. However, the diversification patterns of international construction companies (ICCs) as a group are barely clear. The primary aim of this research is to cover this knowledge void by mapping ICCs’ diversification patterns in both business sectors and geographical dispersal. It starts from a literature review of diversification theories. Based on the review, a series of hypotheses relating to ICCs’ diversification are proposed. Data are gleaned from Engineering News-Record, i.e. Bloomberg and Capital IQ, ranging from 2001 to 2015. By testing the hypotheses, it is found that larger ICCs prefer to diversify than their smaller counterparts. Most of the ICCs tend to diversify to geographical markets with similar cultural or institutional environment. Market demands drive ICCs to diversify to different geographical markets while they are more prudential in venturing into new business sectors. The research provides not only valuable insights into diversification patterns of ICCs, but also a solid point of departure for future theoretical and empirical studies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 348-361
Issue: 6
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1388530
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1388530
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:6:p:348-361
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Di Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Di
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Yasser Mohamed
Author-X-Name-First: Yasser
Author-X-Name-Last: Mohamed
Author-Name: Hosein Taghaddos
Author-X-Name-First: Hosein
Author-X-Name-Last: Taghaddos
Author-Name: Ulrich (Rick) Hermann
Author-X-Name-First: Ulrich (Rick)
Author-X-Name-Last: Hermann
Title: A simulation-based method for effective workface planning of industrial construction projects
Abstract:
The generation of well-defined and moderately sized field installation work packages for the construction workforce, referred to as workface planning, has been recently employed to plan large-scale industrial construction projects under tight schedules. However, traditional CPM-based scheduling of several thousand work packages (e.g. 5000 activities multiply by 10 work packages per activity on average) is a tedious, error prone process. Defining proper logics and controlling congestion among work packages crossing several work areas, and also effective resource allocation over time are other major challenges in workface planning. This paper presents a novel simulation-based framework to implement workface planning for large-scale industrial construction projects. This framework proposes a time-stepped discrete event simulation-based modelling for dynamic resource allocation based on congestion and other constraints on the job site. The proposed method is demonstrated and tested against traditional CPM-based solutions based on an actual case study.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 328-347
Issue: 6
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1390241
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1390241
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:6:p:328-347
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Riley Snyder
Author-X-Name-First: J. Riley
Author-X-Name-Last: Snyder
Author-Name: Ozge Dilaver
Author-X-Name-First: Ozge
Author-X-Name-Last: Dilaver
Author-Name: Lucy C. Stephenson
Author-X-Name-First: Lucy C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Stephenson
Author-Name: Jan E. Mackie
Author-X-Name-First: Jan E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mackie
Author-Name: Simon D. Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Agent-based modelling and construction – reconstructing antiquity’s largest infrastructure project
Abstract:
Archaeological remains around the world are testament that large-scale construction projects have been successfully carried out for millennia. This success is particularly evident through the great infrastructural works of the Roman Empire. Yet, it was when the capital was moved from Rome to Constantinople that the largest of these projects was undertaken. This megaproject of the fourth- and fifth-century water supply was made of hundreds of kilometres aqueduct channels and bridges that brought fresh water to the city’s complex system of reservoirs and cisterns. Unlike projects of the previous centuries, we are left with no written record of how this titanic project was undertaken and existing archaeological and historical commentaries on structures of this period do not provide details of organization of construction. We explore the nature of building Constantinople’s water supply through diverse sources of knowledge and the application of agent-based modelling – a method for simulating the actions, interactions and behaviours of autonomous agents and the resulting emergent properties of the system in which they are a part. This paper demonstrates the ability of ABM to develop and test richer hypotheses about historical construction organization and management than physical and historical evidence on their own.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 313-327
Issue: 6
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1403639
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1403639
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:6:p:313-327
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Benjamin Sanchez
Author-X-Name-First: Benjamin
Author-X-Name-Last: Sanchez
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Title: Capital project planning for a circular economy
Abstract:
Achieving true sustainability in the conceptualization of new building projects requires radical change compared to traditional green-field projects; circular building principles in a circular economy must become a fundamental part of the process. These principles include product recovery management, life cycle assessment (LCA), design for disassembly sequence planning, adaptability, deconstruction, closed materials loops and dematerialization. These principles recognize the importance of the End-of-Life stage in existing buildings, including adaptive reuse as an attractive alternative in a circular economy. However, the early phases of capital project delivery lack well-developed methods to: (1) decide amongst green-field construction versus adaptive reuse, (2) pre-project planning for closed-loop cycle construction and (3) plan for the optimization of the benefits of adaptive reuse. In this article, we argue that the early capital projects delivery phases for a circular economy should have distinct stages, decision gates and more appropriate planning methods, such as selective disassembly, LCA monetization protocols and optimization methods. An investigation of related studies underpins the capital project planning framework proposed and the research that must still be accomplished to enable a more circular economy in the capital projects sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 303-312
Issue: 6
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1435895
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1435895
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:6:p:303-312
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kent Jacob Nielsen
Author-X-Name-First: Kent Jacob
Author-X-Name-Last: Nielsen
Title: A comparison of inspection practices within the construction industry between the Danish and Swedish Work Environment Authorities
Abstract:
Denmark has a 39% higher rate of fatal occupational injuries within construction than Sweden. Although there are only minor differences in the work environment legislation between the countries, there may be differences in how the legislation is enforced. The aim of the study was to describe and compare the inspection practices, within the construction industry, between the Danish and Swedish Work Environment Authorities. A mixed-method approach was employed combining observations of inspections, interviews with inspectors and questionnaire responses from inspected workplaces. The primary role of both Danish and Swedish inspectors was as controllers. A minor role was as experts. A third role of being a sounding board was only identified in a few instances in Sweden. Autonomy-supportive tactics were employed more regularly in Sweden while coercive tactics were more widespread in Denmark. Negative behaviour on behalf of the inspected party was also more widespread in Denmark while positive behaviour was more widespread in Sweden. Questionnaire data revealed that the inspected Swedish companies had a significantly more positive perception of the inspectors and the benefits of the inspections. There were differences in the enforcement practices of the Danish and Swedish inspectors, which may lead to greater adherence to health and safety regulations in Sweden.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 154-169
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1231407
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1231407
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:154-169
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jicai Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jicai
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Ruolan Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Ruolan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Charles Yuen Jen Cheah
Author-X-Name-First: Charles Yuen Jen
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheah
Author-Name: Jian Luo
Author-X-Name-First: Jian
Author-X-Name-Last: Luo
Title: Evolutionary game of investors’ opportunistic behaviour during the operational period in PPP projects
Abstract:
In public–private partnership (PPP) projects, during the operational period, private investors are prone to act opportunistically in pursuit of their own gain. Based on the perspectives of government’s administrative supervisory functions, this paper analyses the issue of strategic choice for opportunistic behaviour by the government and private investors during the operational period of projects using evolutionary game theory. The results show that there is not a single set of evolutionarily stable strategies (ESS) between the government and the investors. The end results of the evolutionary game are related to the initial states of the system. Conditions that would dissuade investors from adopting an opportunistic behaviour, and settings that would encourage government to supervise closely, are explored. Punishments set by the government, which would then lead to different ultimate choices made by these two parties, are also discussed. Finally, the paper proposes a few policy recommendations for government supervision on the basis of parametric analysis. The findings also serve as a reference for the decision-making process of the government and the investors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 137-153
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1237033
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1237033
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:137-153
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wendy Jones
Author-X-Name-First: Wendy
Author-X-Name-Last: Jones
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Author-Name: Chris Goodier
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodier
Author-Name: Phil Bust
Author-X-Name-First: Phil
Author-X-Name-Last: Bust
Title: Managing the unknown – Addressing the potential health risks of nanomaterials in the built environment
Abstract:
Nanomaterials offer significant potential for high performing new products in the built environment and elsewhere. However, there are uncertainties regarding their potential adverse health effects and the extent to which they are currently used. A desk study and interviews with those working across the construction, demolition and product manufacture sectors (n = 59) identified the current state of knowledge regarding nanomaterial use within the built environment. Some nanomaterials are potentially toxic, particularly those based on fibres; others are much less problematic but the evidence base is incomplete. Very little is known regarding the potential for exposure for those working with nano-enabled construction materials. Identifying which construction products contain nanomaterials, and which nanomaterials these might be, is very difficult due to inadequate labelling by product manufacturers. Consequently, those working with nano-enabled products typically have very limited knowledge or awareness of this. Further research is required regarding the toxicology of nanomaterials and the potential for exposure during construction and demolition. Better sharing of the information which is already available is also required through the construction, demolition and manufacture/supply chains. This is likely to be important for other innovative products and processes in construction, not just those which use nanomaterials.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 122-136
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1241413
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1241413
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:122-136
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Benson Teck Heng Lim
Author-X-Name-First: Benson Teck Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Title: Linking corporate social responsibility and organizational performance in the construction industry
Abstract:
In the construction industry, the subject of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming increasingly important as communities, employees and socially conscious clients expect firms to demonstrate they are good corporate citizens. However, while CSR research in construction has accelerated in recent years, it remains fragmented and unconceptualized and there is little understanding of the relationship between CSR and organizational performance, the types of CSR strategies employed and the strategic motivations behind them. To address this deficiency in current CSR knowledge and drawing upon contemporary CSR theory, a survey of 104 professionals from across the construction supply chain in Australia and New Zealand was undertaken. The results show that CSR initiatives in the construction sector are integrative, isolated, narrowly focussed (mainly on environmental activities), immature, compliance-based and operational rather than strategic. The link between CSR and economic performance increasingly espoused (and assumed) in much of the CSR literature does not appear to be accepted in practice with the main benefits being seen as relational in building corporate loyalty, brand and engagement with both internal and external stakeholders. By empirically showing that CSR in construction takes place within an integrative conceptual framework, our findings highlight the potential value of theoretical concepts such as stakeholder salience in moving this field of research forward. These approaches recognize the power that stakeholders (both internal and external) have over a business and the need to manage those relationships carefully in order to secure a licence to operate.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 90-105
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1242762
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1242762
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:90-105
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: On the distribution of bids for construction contract auctions
Abstract:
The statistical distribution representing bid values constitutes an essential part of many auction models and has involved a wide range of assumptions, including the Uniform, Normal, Lognormal and Weibull densities. From a modelling point of view, its goodness is defined by how well it enables the probability of a particular bid value to be estimated – a past bid for ex-post analysis and a future bid for ex-ante (forecasting) analysis. However, there is no agreement to date of what is the most appropriate form and empirical work is sparse. Twelve extant construction data-sets from four continents over different time periods are analysed in this paper for their fit to a variety of candidate statistical distributions assuming homogeneity of bidders (ID not known). The results show there is no one single fit-all distribution, but that the 3p Log-Normal, Fréchet/2p Log-Normal, Normal, Gamma and Gumbel generally rank the best ex-post and the 2p Log-Normal, Normal, Gamma and Gumbel the best ex-ante – with ex-ante having around three to four times worse fit than ex-post. Final comments focus on the results relating to the third and fourth standardized moments of the bids and a post hoc rationalization of the empirical outcome of the analysis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 106-121
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1247972
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1247972
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:106-121
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linda Clarke
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Clarke
Author-Name: Colin Gleeson
Author-X-Name-First: Colin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gleeson
Author-Name: Christopher Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: What kind of expertise is needed for low energy construction?
Abstract:
The construction industry is responsible for 40% of European Union (EU) end-use emissions but addressing this is problematic, as evident from the performance gap between design intention and on-site energy performance. There is a lack of the expertise needed for low energy construction (LEC) in the UK as the complex work processes involved require ‘energy literacy’ of all construction occupations, high qualification levels, broad occupational profiles, integrated teamworking, and good communication. This research identifies the obstacles to meeting these requirements, the nature of the expertise needed to break down occupational divisions and bridge those interfaces where the main heat losses occur, and the transition pathway implied. Obstacles include a decline in the level, breadth and quality of construction vocational education and training (VET), the lack of a learning infrastructure on sites, and a fragmented employment structure. To overcome these and develop enhanced understanding of LEC requires a transformation of the existing structure of VET provision and construction employment and a new curriculum based on a broader concept of agency and backed by rigorous enforcement of standards. This can be achieved through a radical transition pathway rather than market-based solutions to a low carbon future for the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 78-89
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1248988
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1248988
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:78-89
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Referees for Volume 34 (2016)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 170-179
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1251175
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1251175
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:170-179
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Indexes for Volume 34 (2016)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 180-181
Issue: 3
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1251180
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1251180
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:3:p:180-181
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gulnaz Aksenova
Author-X-Name-First: Gulnaz
Author-X-Name-Last: Aksenova
Author-Name: Arto Kiviniemi
Author-X-Name-First: Arto
Author-X-Name-Last: Kiviniemi
Author-Name: Tuba Kocaturk
Author-X-Name-First: Tuba
Author-X-Name-Last: Kocaturk
Author-Name: Albert Lejeune
Author-X-Name-First: Albert
Author-X-Name-Last: Lejeune
Title: From Finnish AEC knowledge ecosystem to business ecosystem: lessons learned from the national deployment of BIM
Abstract:
Government actors, public agencies, industry and academics have struggled to change the rules of the existing business ecosystem to support the networked practices that were envisioned back in the 1980s with the introduction of building information modelling (BIM). Despite the industry’s far-reaching technological capabilities, BIM has primarily assumed productivity improvement by individual firms, which has not lead to a systemic change in the Finnish architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) business ecosystem. A field study of the Finnish AEC industry has resulted in a critical understanding of why successful and intensive R&D at a national level and wide adoption of BIM technology in Finland has not led to the expected systemic evolution of its AEC business ecosystem. Additionally, a methodology based on inductive grounded theory and historical analysis has been used to capture and identify the evolving and dynamic relationships between various events and actors between 1965 and 2015, which, in turn, has aided in the identification and characterisation of the knowledge and innovation ecosystems. The research findings provide insights for BIM researchers and governments in terms of establishing new policies that will better align BIM adoption with the systemic evolution of business practices in the AEC business ecosystem.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 317-335
Issue: 6
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1481985
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1481985
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:6:p:317-335
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Peter Nørkjaer Gade
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Nørkjaer Gade
Author-Name: Anne Nørkjaer Gade
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Nørkjaer Gade
Author-Name: Kathrin Otrel-Cass
Author-X-Name-First: Kathrin
Author-X-Name-Last: Otrel-Cass
Author-Name: Kjeld Svidt
Author-X-Name-First: Kjeld
Author-X-Name-Last: Svidt
Title: A holistic analysis of a BIM-mediated building design process using activity theory
Abstract:
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is said to hold potential for increasing efficiency of the design processes in the building industry. However, designers struggle at times to apply the different BIM-tools. In order to understand this disjoint, it is necessary to understand first the existing practices of different specialists in the building design process in order to improve future development and implementation of BIM. The aim of this article is to investigate the consequences of using BIM-tools in a collaborative building design setting consisting of different specialists. A case study was carried out to trace when BIM-tools were used (or not) in an inter-organizational design process of a naval rescue station in Denmark. The design process was holistically examined through the lens of Activity Theory which is an analytical framework. Five key findings were identified: the mediating role of 3D visuals, real-world coupling with point cloud, rule-breaking to ensure design completion, inability to integrate BIM-analysis into the design and the use of heuristics to form and choose among design solutions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 336-350
Issue: 6
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1533644
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1533644
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:6:p:336-350
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kajsa Simu
Author-X-Name-First: Kajsa
Author-X-Name-Last: Simu
Author-Name: Helena Lidelöw
Author-X-Name-First: Helena
Author-X-Name-Last: Lidelöw
Title: Middle managers’ perceptions of operations strategies at construction contractors
Abstract:
Operations strategies focus on how a firm delivers value, while business strategies focus on what to deliver and where. Lean is an operations strategy prioritizing flow efficiency. In construction, empirical underpinning of operations strategies has been limited. The aim is to capture how perceptions of operations strategy in construction practice aligns with existing theories of operations strategy organized in decision categories. Nine in-depth interviews with contractor middle managers were transcribed and analyzed to capture their perceptions of operations strategies. Results show: (1) decision categories in construction differ from manufacturing, and (2) differences between resource and flow efficient operations strategies exist. A resource efficient strategy focuses cost and delivery as competitive criteria, while customer value is targeted in a flow efficient strategy. Proposed structural decision categories are standardization, organization and production planning, supply chain, and infrastructural decision categories are human resources, continuous improvement, long-term perspective, process vs. project, and performance measurements. Infrastructural categories are more difficult to replicate and render competitive advantage if successfully aligned with business strategy. An operations strategy strictly focused on project delivery, such as lean construction, is not automatically aligned with the business strategy, but can achieve satisfactory project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 351-366
Issue: 6
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1542739
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1542739
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:6:p:351-366
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Author-Name: Sami Paavola
Author-X-Name-First: Sami
Author-X-Name-Last: Paavola
Author-Name: Henrik Buhl
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Buhl
Title: Social science and construction – an uneasy and underused relation
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 309-316
Issue: 6
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1599160
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1599160
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:6:p:309-316
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Jemma Bridgeman
Author-X-Name-First: Jemma
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridgeman
Title: The social impact of construction industry schools-based corporate volunteering
Abstract:
Despite the rapid growth of corporate volunteering in construction, there has been very little research in this area, particularly from a recipient’s perspective. To address this gap in knowledge, data were collected using surveys, reflective diaries, workbooks and a progress web, from 103 school pupils participating in one of the UK’s largest schools-based construction industry corporate volunteering programmes. The results show that corporate volunteering programmes which partner construction industry professionals with school students in a work-related activity-based learning environment can have a significant impact on student construction industry knowledge, perceptions, career choices, aspirations and employability skills. This is particularly the case for female students and for students whose learning styles do not align with traditional classroom-based pedagogies. It is recommended that more research is needed to classify and understand the different types of volunteering programmes that operate in the construction sector across multiple cohort groups, the factors that determine success and failure and the overall impact on the students and the wider community in the long term as well as the short term. There is also a need for more research into what it means for the companies involved and for the staff who volunteer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 243-258
Issue: 5
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1355061
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1355061
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:5:p:243-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Author-Name: Ingrid Svensson
Author-X-Name-First: Ingrid
Author-X-Name-Last: Svensson
Title: On the nexus of changing public facilities management practices: purposive and co-creative actions across multiple levels
Abstract:
Building on a practice-oriented approach and the theoretical construct of institutional work, the organizational nexus of changing practices for public facilities management is conceptualized in a multi-level framework. To support the conceptual framework, changing management practices are illustrated with the help of real-life experiences gained in a case study of a strategy project in a Swedish public construction client organization with the goal of developing a strategic facilities plan. These real-life examples, captured through interviews and field observations, cohere with the research method of narrative inquiry. The framework envisions projective agencies of various actors, both human and non-human (objects), in change processes. Findings show how key actors, through collaborative co-creation processes, take different complementary roles when promoting new practices into a specific organizational setting. By jointly promoting a set of preferred arrangements they establish proto-institutions. In addition, various objects were attributed rhetorical agency to support new public FM practices in that these served as purposeful non-human actors, triggering and legitimizing actions taken. With focus on emerging institutions in the making and especially projective agencies for institutional change, this research contributes to furthered layered understandings on institutional work related to change in construction in general and specifically in public sustainable facilities management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-275
Issue: 5
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1381751
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1381751
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:5:p:259-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vanessa McDermott
Author-X-Name-First: Vanessa
Author-X-Name-Last: McDermott
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Andrew Hopkins
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Hopkins
Author-Name: Jan Hayes
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Hayes
Title: Constructing safety: investigating senior executive long-term incentive plans and safety objectives in the construction sector
Abstract:
In the private sector, incentive plans are one of the major means used by Boards of Directors to align the interests of senior management with organizational interests. However, research conducted in the energy and resources sector revealed a poor alignment between incentive plans and the need to have senior management focus on safety. The research discussed here examined long-term incentive plans (LTIPs) for senior executives in the construction sector to investigate whether these direct senior managers attention to long-term safety objectives and if they include any long-term safety indicators. Annual Reports of publicly listed companies in the Australian non-domestic construction sector were used as the major information source and subjected to content analysis. Despite a strong safety commitment expressed by all the companies, LTIPs were exclusively associated with financial indicators. Although safety indicators are included in Annual Reports, these only appear in short-term incentive plans, indicating that senior executives are not incentivized to align their long-term decision-making with long-term safety objectives. Findings from the research demonstrate that valid and meaningful safety indicators should be developed and included in LTIPs in order to better align the focus of senior management to include safety performance in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 276-290
Issue: 5
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1381752
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1381752
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:5:p:276-290
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Oswald
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oswald
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Simon D. Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Matthew R. Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Title: Exploring safety management challenges for multi-national construction workforces: a UK case study
Abstract:
Large construction projects frequently operate with multi-national workforces, utilizing migrant workers to provide both skilled and unskilled labour. Multi-national workforces are also brought together through joint ventures, as companies from different countries collaborate and share their expertise to construct large and complex construction projects. A multi-national joint venture in the UK provides the case study for an examination of the safety management challenges found on such projects. Whilst language and communication issues amongst workers are typically primary concerns, here they have not been prioritized. Instead, findings are presented that illuminate more nuanced and unquantifiable problems that faced the safety management team. An ethnographically informed approach was mobilized, with the lead researcher spending three years on the site with the safety team gathering data. Analysis revealed several challenges: problems with non-UK company compliance with UK legislation and standards; differences in working practices amongst both non-UK workers and their managers; differences associated with national cultures; and problems of poor worker welfare. It is suggested that awareness of these challenges should inform both the way in which such projects are initially contracted, as well as the development of more sophisticated safety management systems that better support multi-national construction projects in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 291-301
Issue: 5
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1390242
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1390242
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:5:p:291-301
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dylan Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Author-Name: Sarah Pink
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Pink
Title: Refiguring global construction challenges through ethnography
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 475-480
Issue: 9
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1643570
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1643570
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:9:p:475-480
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henning Grosse
Author-X-Name-First: Henning
Author-X-Name-Last: Grosse
Title: An insider’s point of view: autoethnography in the construction industry
Abstract:
This practitioner-researcher’s work addresses the lack of autoethnographies in construction management and highlights what they might contribute. I explore my experiences running a construction company in Germany and pursuing practitioner-research as a part-time researcher. I use reflexive autoethnography to explore my emotions and thoughts drawn from a conflict with an architect using background knowledge, perspective taking and self-questioning. Reflexivity is a recurring critique and questioning of my actions and understandings, which helped me to explore underlying assumptions and reasons for my thoughts and feelings. I identify three forms of reflexivity, which interacts in an ongoing hermeneutic process. These are “reflexivity on practice”, which refers to the retrospective reflexivity, “reflexivity in practice”. which signals how I reflexively act in practice, and “reflexivity of practice”, which is inherent reflexivity in practice. My research can be seen as a transformative process as I progress from management thinking to researcher thinking. As I reflexively deconstruct my own understanding, I also advance the understanding of the processes I explore. Subsequently, I am better equipped to navigate my business environment. Sharing these experiences might help others to advance their reflexive skills and my unique insider perspective might provide deeper insights into the construction industry. Thus, autoethnographies will contrast outsider’s perspectives and offer material for further reflection.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 481-498
Issue: 9
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1501156
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1501156
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:9:p:481-498
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Author-Name: Casper Siebken Schultz
Author-X-Name-First: Casper Siebken
Author-X-Name-Last: Schultz
Title: The production of defects in construction – an agency dissonance
Abstract:
The costs of defects and quality issues in construction can be significant for stakeholders and can include societal consequences. The aim is to address how failures and defects are produced and handled in the social practices of construction projects and specially to scrutinize the unintended consequences of both structured and chaotic problem solving. The argument is based on a longitudinal ethnographic study of a dwelling project, encompassing just over 100 days of fieldwork. Structuration theory was applied to understand the interrelations between project actors and structures in the handling and redressing of quality issues and to elucidate unintended consequences of the practices. The analytical strategy was abductive, allowing theory and empirical material to inform each other. Two cases were selected; the well-structured process of erecting concrete panels and the chaotic processes of building a penthouse. The results show how routine and experience are helpful, but also how they maintain an “acceptable” level of defects, which should change the widespread appreciation of experience as being positive for building quality. The unintended consequences of routinized practices are corroborated by the lack of knowledge sharing beyond the project. Both reactive and proactive problem-solving practices are important, but the reactive tend to dominate.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 499-512
Issue: 9
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1519253
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1519253
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:9:p:499-512
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wajihah Hamid
Author-X-Name-First: Wajihah
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamid
Author-Name: Dylan Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Title: “Thrown away like a banana leaf”: precarity of labour and precarity of place for Tamil migrant construction workers in Singapore
Abstract:
Despite labouring for three decades in Singapore, and being connected to the existing Tamil diasporic community there, Tamil migrant construction workers have been left out of state rhetoric and face economic marginalization and social exclusion. In this article, we draw on rich ethnographic data on their everyday experiences of working construction and living in Singapore, and we espouse the distinctive qualities and mission of ethnographically-informed methodologies to enact change in this space. The methods include in-depth interviews with 11 Tamil labourers, and the subsequent use of worker photo diaries, known as auto-photography, with a total of 108 photographs taken. All the participants either worked construction, were on medical leave, or were seeking compensation after workplace injury. The analysis of the interview data develops themes around precarity and discrimination on construction sites (precarity of work), and the exclusory social practices experienced by workers in their offsite world (precarity of place). Following the goals of decolonized research, our innovative methods have enabled Tamil construction workers to present their lives through their own lens. By involving migrant construction workers, we identify new sites of inquiry and knowledge in examining the inequalities and injustices they face.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 513-536
Issue: 9
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1595075
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1595075
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:9:p:513-536
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ian J. Ewart
Author-X-Name-First: Ian J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ewart
Title: The social consequences of minor innovations in construction
Abstract:
Innovation studies in construction focus on a desire to increase economics and efficiency at a large scale. This has resulted in a skewed perspective that sees only major corporations with substantial R&D resources, complex projects, or national interests at the heart of innovation. By adopting anthropological methods, it becomes possible to examine the two aims of this paper: to demonstrate that an accumulation of minor innovations can have significant consequences; and to show that these are inherently social rather than purely economic. Results come from fieldwork studying the improvisatory house-building practices of the Kelabit people of rural Borneo, tracing changes to the technologies used for roofing and foundations, and describes how these are mutually entangled with new social structures. The conclusion is that we should think more broadly about the forms and effects of innovation in construction and recognize the significance of improvisation at the level of the individual or small group.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 537-549
Issue: 9
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1614202
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1614202
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:9:p:537-549
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ruth M. Dowsett
Author-X-Name-First: Ruth M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dowsett
Author-Name: Chris F. Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Title: Assessing the implementation of BIM – an information systems approach
Abstract:
Much attention has been paid to measuring the perceived benefits of Building Information Modelling (BIM). Yet despite an increase its adoption throughout the construction industry, important links between implementation, support and benefits are yet to be explored. We examine the constitutive elements of the BIM implementation process of two case studies implementing and using BIM: the first is a large urban regeneration project, and the second is a healthcare project. A well-recognised model of system success is mobilized from the field of information systems (ISs) to reveal that irrespective of project size and type, BIM benefits are confined to technically discrete productivity and efficiency gains when there is limited focus on the organizational aspects of BIM adoption. This paper focuses on the disconnections between organizational and project level BIM implementation using the DeLone and McLean Model as an analytical framework to systematically examine the benefits of BIM to each project in relation to the implementation approach employed. This study highlights the significance of these interdependencies and argues for a more comprehensive approach to BIM benefits capture that recognises this to usefully inform implementation strategy development.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 551-566
Issue: 10
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1476728
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1476728
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:10:p:551-566
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: David Oswald
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oswald
Author-Name: Tiendung Le
Author-X-Name-First: Tiendung
Author-X-Name-Last: Le
Title: Embedding occupational health and safety in the procurement and management of infrastructure projects: institutional logics at play in the context of new public management
Abstract:
The research explored the approaches used by government agencies (as client organizations) to drive occupational health and safety (OHS) performance improvements in publicly funded infrastructure construction projects in Australia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 representatives of clients and contractors with direct and recent experience of delivering large public infrastructure projects. Interviews explored the procurement approaches taken, and the use of incentives and performance measurement. Data was subjected to inductive analysis to identify emergent concepts and themes relating to the way that New Public Management (NPM) influences the commercial management of infrastructure construction projects, with particular reference to OHS impacts. The concept of institutional logics was utilised as a theoretical frame to understand clients’ behaviour in the commercial management of infrastructure projects. Client behaviour was consistent with elements of NPM and reflected a managerialist logic in the pursuit of efficiency, the use of targets, incentives and performance measurement. However, a strong professional service logic was also found to drive active client behaviour in relation to the management of OHS. Understanding the institutional logics driving client OHS practices is an important theoretical development that can stimulate reflexive practice which may create an impetus for change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 567-583
Issue: 10
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1551617
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1551617
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:10:p:567-583
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ruolan Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Ruolan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Jicai Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jicai
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Selection of government supervision mode of PPP projects during the operation stage
Abstract:
During the operation stage of public-private partnership (PPP) projects, investors may engage in opportunistic behaviour in pursuit of their own profits. In order to curb this kind of behaviour, this article analyses the selection of government supervision mode based on evolutionary game theory taking the perspective of government supervision. The results show that government supervision mode is closely related to the probability of identifying investors’ speculative behaviour through outcome-oriented supervision. When the probability of identifying such behaviour is relatively high, the equilibrium strategy of investors and governmental supervision institutions is (not to behave opportunistically, outcome-oriented supervision). In contrast, if the probability is relatively low, there is no set of evolutionarily stable strategies (ESS); rather, a periodic behavioural pattern is formed. In this scenario, the strategies ultimately chosen by both sides relate to initial states and the payoffs of the options. Furthermore, determinants and some recommendations for government supervision are proposed, providing a reference for efficient governance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 584-603
Issue: 10
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1564347
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1564347
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:10:p:584-603
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Natalya Sergeeva
Author-X-Name-First: Natalya
Author-X-Name-Last: Sergeeva
Author-Name: Stuart D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Title: Managerial identity work in action: performative narratives and anecdotal stories of innovation
Abstract:
Innovation is invariably accepted as a central component of construction sector competitiveness. Yet, there remains a paucity of empirical research, which explores the gap between the way innovation is promoted in the policy discourse and how it is interpreted in practice. We follow the “narrative turn” in organization studies to explore the ways in which senior executives in the UK construction sector ascribe themselves with informal roles while advocating the cause of innovation. Empirical data is derived from narrative interviews with 32 senior executives who self-identify as “innovation champions”. When talking about innovation, the respondents were found to oscillate between performative narratives of innovation and more personalized stories derived from their own experience. The narratives were invariably pre-rehearsed often to the point of being monotonous. In contrast, the personalized stories tended to be engaging and emotionally laden. The tendency for senior executives to oscillate between narratives and stories is seen as an important means through which they search for meaning while at the same time legitimizing their self-identities as “innovation champions”. Of particular note is the way in which senior managers self-ascribe themselves with informal roles which are notably at odds with those described in more formalized narratives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 604-623
Issue: 10
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1566625
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1566625
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:10:p:604-623
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eric Fosu Oteng-Abayie
Author-X-Name-First: Eric Fosu
Author-X-Name-Last: Oteng-Abayie
Author-Name: John Bosco Dramani
Author-X-Name-First: John Bosco
Author-X-Name-Last: Dramani
Title: Time-frequency domain causality of prime building cost and macroeconomic indicators in Ghana: implications for project selection
Abstract:
According to the Ghana Statistical Service, construction activity generated US$3.8 billion in 2014, representing about 12.7% of nominal GDP. A key factor that most investors in the construction sector consider in project selection is cost which has escalated over the years. Therefore, we examine the co-movements and causality in the time and frequency domains between the prime building cost index (PBCI) and its disaggregates on one hand and inflation and exchange rate on the other hand in Ghana. The findings revealed that the degree of co-movement between PBCI and inflation was significant at the 5% level and occurred over the long-run, indicating that construction cost drives inflation. The degree of co-movement between the prime build cost index and exchange rate occurred within the short term. These co-movements have policy implications for substituting inflation and exchange rates in project costing by investors in Ghana. The co-movement between the PBCI and inflation in the medium to higher frequencies suggests that inflation risk-averse investors should consider short-term projects. Again, the short to medium frequency co-movements between the PBCI and exchange rate indicates that investors should consider exchange rate risk in long-term projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 243-256
Issue: 5
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1514125
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1514125
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:5:p:243-256
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lizet Kuitert
Author-X-Name-First: Lizet
Author-X-Name-Last: Kuitert
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Author-Name: Marleen H. Hermans
Author-X-Name-First: Marleen H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hermans
Title: Taking on a wider view: public value interests of construction clients in a changing construction industry
Abstract:
For financial and strategic reasons, public and semi-public construction clients increasingly depend on private parties to carry out public service delivery. They subcontract operational responsibilities to private parties while remaining socio-politically responsible for ensuring public values. Public administration literature mainly addresses the importance of procedural and performance values in safeguarding public values. However, safeguarding the quality of the built environment also requires a focus on product values. In this study, we aim to increase the understanding of the meaning and significance of public values in the daily practice of public construction clients and identify the challenges they face in commissioning these seemingly opposing values. A set of semi-structured interviews with the public administrators of a variety of public and semi-public construction client organizations in the Netherlands shows that both internal and external factors influence the collaborative practices between clients and contractors. This causes a value shift from an emphasis on procedural values to managing performance and product values, indicating that clients need to take on a wider view on public values. Six main public value dilemmas were found that complicate the task of developing an open, transparent and sustainable long-term client–contractor relationship. The current contractual system, however, lacks the flexibility to facilitate this product-based value view in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 257-277
Issue: 5
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1515496
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1515496
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:5:p:257-277
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Grill
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Grill
Author-Name: Kent Nielsen
Author-X-Name-First: Kent
Author-X-Name-Last: Nielsen
Author-Name: Regine Grytnes
Author-X-Name-First: Regine
Author-X-Name-Last: Grytnes
Author-Name: Anders Pousette
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Pousette
Author-Name: Marianne Törner
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Törner
Title: The leadership practices of construction site managers and their influence on occupational safety: an observational study of transformational and passive/avoidant leadership
Abstract:
More than 20% of all reported occupational accidents in Europe in 2015 occurred within the construction industry. Leadership is an imperative antecedent to occupational safety. Transformational leadership is considered a central aspect of safety-promoting leadership and passive/avoidant leadership is considered a central aspect of poor safety leadership. This study aimed to comprehensively elucidate concrete, real-life transformational and passive/avoidant leadership behaviours through context-specific descriptions of day-to-day interactions between construction site managers and employees. A mixed method design was applied, combining structured observations of construction site managers, with questionnaire responses from construction employees. With this design, common method bias was eliminated. The results provide context-specific examples of transformational and passive/avoidant leadership behaviour. High proportions of observed transformational leadership was found to predict high construction site safety. High proportions of observed passive/avoidant leadership was found to predict low construction site safety. The proportion of transformational leadership behaviour was higher among site managers in Sweden than in Denmark, indicating that national cultural context may be an antecedent to safety leadership among construction site managers. Applying less passive/avoidant leadership and more transformational leadership appears to be an effective way for construction site managers to improve occupational safety in the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 278-293
Issue: 5
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1526388
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1526388
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:5:p:278-293
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susanna Hedborg Bengtsson
Author-X-Name-First: Susanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Hedborg Bengtsson
Title: Coordinated construction logistics: an innovation perspective
Abstract:
Coordinated construction logistics is an increasingly discussed topic in the Swedish construction industry. It is suggested as a means to increase efficiency in transportation, decrease material usage, coordinate health and safety on-site, etc. Much research on construction logistics has been done from a supply chain management perspective, often highlighting construction logistics as a necessary rational tool to improve efficiency in construction industry. However, could there be other ways to study this phenomenon? The purpose of this paper is to map empirically found coordinated construction logistics models and explore them as different types of innovation. The findings suggest that coordinated construction logistics models should be regarded as not being a fully embedded innovation as they have not yet changed the processes in the way they set out to do initially. Furthermore, differences are identified between company-based models, project-based models and system-based models, and suggest that differences in, for example, development, impact and objectives should be regarded both when conducting research on and when implementing coordinated construction logistics in practice. Finally, it is concluded that commitment, communication and cooperation are important when implementing coordinated construction logistics, which is in line with findings within the supply chain management literature.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 294-307
Issue: 5
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1528372
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1528372
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:5:p:294-307
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abdollah Noorizadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Abdollah
Author-X-Name-Last: Noorizadeh
Author-Name: Kamran Rashidi
Author-X-Name-First: Kamran
Author-X-Name-Last: Rashidi
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Title: Categorizing suppliers for development investments in construction: application of DEA and RFM concept
Abstract:
Supplier development plays a significant role in the cost, quality and delivery improvements of construction projects. However, there is limited research on analytical methods of categorizing and prioritizing a high number of suppliers for effective allocation of scarce development resources. This research aims to develop an objective model to categorize a general contractor’s suppliers. To do so, we use three concepts from different research backgrounds – recency, frequency and monetary value (RFM); data envelopment analysis (DEA); and the customer pyramid – and add the number of projects (P) shared with each supplier as a context-related variable to build a novel RFMP model. The model categorizes suppliers into four levels of the supplier pyramid, utilizing historical data on supplier–contractor transactions. To test the model in practice, we adopt a case study of an international construction company in Finland. The results reveal that a supplier’s RFMP score reflects its contribution to the contractor’s business; therefore, development investments should vary, based on a supplier’s position in the supplier pyramid. This research contributes to the knowledge on supply chain management in construction by combining three approaches – RFM, DEA and the customer pyramid – into a single objective model to categorize suppliers for effective development investments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 487-506
Issue: 9
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1416151
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1416151
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:9:p:487-506
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: J. Sacilotto
Author-X-Name-First: J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacilotto
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Chinese investment in the Australian construction industry: the social amplification of risk
Abstract:
Chinese companies are investing heavily in overseas construction and property assets. In Australia, and in many other countries such as the United States and United Kingdom, this has generated an emotive and polarized debate about the risks and opportunities posed to local industry and to wider national interests. To explore the social and cognitive mechanisms which people are using to make sense of this new global phenomenon, Kasperson’s Social Amplification of Risk Framework (SARF) was mobilized, through semi-structured interviews with senior Australian construction industry leaders. The results show that the SARF is a valuable lens to explore perceptions of risk and opportunity associated with Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), although it represents a rather linear view and underplays the importance of power, collaboration and social media in forming perceptions. They also show that senior practitioners in the Australian construction industry are taking a highly rational, commercial and pragmatic approach to increasing FDI. Despite some concerns around non-compliant materials, labour standards and safety standards, Chinese FDI is seen as inevitable and crucial to the development of Australia’s construction industry. Surprisingly, given negative media coverage of Chinese FDI in Australia and a lack of experience in working with Chinese investors, we found little evidence for the social amplification or attenuation of risk. Knee-jerk regulatory reactions which are advocated by many groups are generally seen as risky and we conclude that the nature of Chinese – Australian business experiences over the near future will have a major effect on whether those perceptions eventuate as negative or positive. It is recommended that the best way to mitigate any risks and maximize the opportunities is not to withdraw and oppose Chinese FDI but to build collaborative links to improve direct interactions between Australian and Chinese firms, underpinned by targeted risk and opportunity management protocols.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-520
Issue: 9
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1457222
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1457222
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:9:p:507-520
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jessica Kaminsky
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaminsky
Author-Name: Kasey Faust
Author-X-Name-First: Kasey
Author-X-Name-Last: Faust
Title: Infrastructure epistemologies: water, wastewater and displaced persons in Germany
Abstract:
Recent years have seen historically unprecedented global disaster migration; in 2016 Germany received 1.3 million displaced individuals. Regardless of past resources and future potential, disaster migrants are a new, vulnerable population. This new population increases demand for water and wastewater infrastructure services, despite being temporarily unable to pay for services. As such, this kind of sudden population increase is a resiliency challenge for the receiving infrastructure systems. Qualitative analysis of 1,884 open-ended survey responses was blended with a statistical analysis to discover how and why the German public perceives water and sanitation services have been provided to the disaster migrants. Unprompted, 36% (112/314) of respondents referenced at least one of three infrastructure epistemologies, including water and wastewater as a service, as a basic need, and as a human right. These epistemologies share statistically significant relationships with how long respondents feel water and wastewater should be provided to displaced persons. A temporally limited, normative perception of water and sanitation as a humanitarian good functions to enable water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver a high level of service despite the significant disruption of the large and vulnerable population influx, and has practical implications for the structure of cost recovery.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 521-534
Issue: 9
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1462499
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1462499
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:9:p:521-534
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cecília Gravina da Rocha
Author-X-Name-First: Cecília Gravina
Author-X-Name-Last: da Rocha
Author-Name: Sergio Kemmer
Author-X-Name-First: Sergio
Author-X-Name-Last: Kemmer
Title: Integrating product and process design in construction
Abstract:
Product modularity namely the notion that products can be decomposed into parts (or modules) has been widely applied in manufacturing but not in construction, precluding this industry to also benefit from it. The narrow definition of a module, which is often simplistically equated to a sub-assembly produced off-site, and the lack of integration between product and process design, which is typical in construction, are argued to be two root causes of such problem. This paper starts by discussing the operational implications of misaligned decisions in these two domains in an empirical study addressing a high-rise apartments building project. Seven guidelines are then devised using a Design Science Research (DSR) approach for integrating product (product modularity and modules) and process (work structure and work packages) design. The results indicate that product modularity can be applied for improving operations regardless of the construction method(s) used. Yet, a revised understanding of modules (as a material, a component, a non-volumetric or a volumetric sub-assembly) is needed in addition to a coordinated product and process design, particularly for traditional construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 535-543
Issue: 9
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1464198
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1464198
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:9:p:535-543
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shabnam Kabiri
Author-X-Name-First: Shabnam
Author-X-Name-Last: Kabiri
Author-Name: Will Hughes
Author-X-Name-First: Will
Author-X-Name-Last: Hughes
Title: The interplay between formal and informal elements in analysing situations of role conflict among construction participants
Abstract:
The interplay of formal and informal factors in construction teams influences the enactment of roles and the individuals who fulfil those roles. With a specific focus on a phenomenon called role conflict, the aim is to explore if and how the interaction of formal and informal elements would lead to situations of role conflict. This phenomenon proved to lead to frustration, tension and employee burnout. An analytical model of role interaction was developed, which disentangles formal and informal elements that shape role interactions. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews, project documents and observations. Four cases of role conflict are presented here. Contract, as a formal element, and participant’s values and interests, as informal elements, appeared to be the most important factor shaping participants’ expectations and behaviours. The analysis in this study showed that if a participant who faces role conflict is able to influence the formal elements in favour of his or her informal elements, then he or she may experience less frustration. At a more general level, the results suggest that increasing formality can increase participants’ frustration, which then would decrease the likelihood of collaboration. As the theoretical contribution, this research extends organizational role theory to deal with informal and formal aspects. Taking into account formal sources enables the study of how roles are institutionally governed while including informal sources allows for the idea that some of the aspects of the role, even in the context of work role, are socially constructed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 651-665
Issue: 12
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1472794
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1472794
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:12:p:651-665
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-Name: Stefán Thor Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Stefán Thor
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Author-Name: Josephine Gwen Lloyd-Papworth
Author-X-Name-First: Josephine Gwen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lloyd-Papworth
Author-Name: Peter Cooke
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Cooke
Title: Incorporating the effect of weather in construction scheduling and management with sine wave curves: application in the United Kingdom
Abstract:
The impact of (adverse) weather is a common cause of delays, legal claims and economic losses in construction projects. Research has recently been carried out aimed at incorporating the effect of weather in project planning; but these studies have focussed on either a narrow set of weather variables, or a very limited range of construction activities or projects. A method for processing a country’s historical weather data into a set of weather delay maps for some representative standard construction activities is proposed. Namely, sine curves are used to associate daily combinations of weather variables to delay and provide coefficients for expected productivity losses. A complete case study comprising the construction of these maps and the associated sine waves for the UK is presented along with an example of their use in building construction planning. Findings of this study indicate that UK weather extends project durations by an average of 21%. However, using climatological data derived from weather observations when planning could lead to average reductions in project durations of 16%, with proportional reductions in indirect and overhead costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 666-682
Issue: 12
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1478109
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1478109
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:12:p:666-682
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Perry Forsythe
Author-X-Name-First: Perry
Author-X-Name-Last: Forsythe
Title: Extending and operationalizing construction productivity measurement on building projects
Abstract:
Measuring construction productivity in an accurate, repeatable and reliable way represents a significant problem at a building project level of enquiry. The research develops a measurement framework that balances simplified data gathering against explanatory ability. It aims to assist analytically driven process improvement. Debate and discourse are used to draw upon the extant literature in creating a logic-based flow of ideas to develop the framework. Targeted use of empirical cost and site process data from case studies are presented to punctuate the discourse. The derived approach advocates multifactor measurement inclusive of labour and temporary production infrastructure inputs, set against Gross Floor Area outputs. Emphasis is placed on separately measuring homogenous and heterogeneous parts of work processes. A reductionist approach is used to operationalize measurement where projects are categorized according to fitness-for-purpose criteria and links made between systems, activities and tasks. Emphasizing measurement of homogenous parts of the work is new to the literature. It enables delineated measurement between work involving mass economies of scale (homogenous work), versus customized work (heterogeneous work). The approach enables improved benchmarking, diagnostic and predicative options. A course of ongoing research is provided to assist ongoing development and implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 683-699
Issue: 12
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1480834
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1480834
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:12:p:683-699
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Shobha Ramalingam
Author-X-Name-First: Shobha
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramalingam
Author-Name: Ashwin Mahalingam
Author-X-Name-First: Ashwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahalingam
Title: Knowledge coordination in transnational engineering projects:a practice-based study
Abstract:
Several multinational engineering firms offshore the delivery of engineering design or structural detail drawings to their globally distributed delivery centres. Studies have reported knowledge-sharing challenges when such work is co-ordinated across boundaries. This study takes a practice-based approach to explore knowledge-coordinating challenges across two multinational engineering firms that offshore projects to their global delivery centres in India. Data was collected from six infrastructure projects in the two delivery centres through direct observations augmented with real-time interviews and reviews of e-mails and project documents. This data was analysed qualitatively using ethnographic-coding techniques. Empirical findings identified a set of eight coordinating practices, many of which were emergent, which the teams creatively recombined and enacted as co-ordinating mechanisms that spanned organisational boundaries. Seven practices served to transfer knowledge and one practice transformed knowledge across onshore and offshore units. The study contributes to our understanding of co-ordinating by identifying emergent and informal coordinating practices in offshored construction projects and provides insights to practitioners on the boundary spanning capabilities of these practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 700-715
Issue: 12
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1498591
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1498591
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:12:p:700-715
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberto Pietroforte
Author-X-Name-First: Roberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Pietroforte
Title: Toward More Sustainable Infrastructure: Project Evaluation for Planners and Engineers
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1242-1244
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.641503
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.641503
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1242-1244
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vaughan Coffey
Author-X-Name-First: Vaughan
Author-X-Name-Last: Coffey
Title: Quality Management in Construction Projects
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1244-1246
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.645492
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.645492
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1244-1246
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Olli Teriö
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Teriö
Author-Name: Kalle Kähkönen
Author-X-Name-First: Kalle
Author-X-Name-Last: Kähkönen
Title: Developing and implementing environmental management systems for small and medium-sized construction enterprises
Abstract: Environmental aspects are gradually becoming factors of importance for construction businesses, their operations and their management. These factors can be seen as new change makers for construction management itself. New criteria need to be taken into account when structuring construction activities, in decision making, and throughout the production control. Instances of construction management solutions that also encapsulate environmental aspects are likely to appear. A contractor’s environmental management system (EMS) is an example of such an instance. As a management solution an EMS is targeted at minimizing a contractor’s environmental impacts. An experiment has been carried out where an EMS solution was formed and tested for small and medium-sized contractors. Fifteen small and medium-sized construction companies were involved. Along with the action research approach, a set of workshops with company people were arranged for EMS structuring and for its testing. Within these experiments the researcher acted as a developer and inside observer. The proposed EMS solution presents the structuring of environmental aspects for management attention. Moreover, this structuring can be used as a basis for a formal environmentally conscious management system. All companies involved in the research have started to use the EMS solution or its parts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1183-1195
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.645493
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.645493
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1183-1195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Les Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Les
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Author-Name: Steven Ruddock
Author-X-Name-First: Steven
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruddock
Title: Evaluation of trends in the UK construction industry using growth and productivity accounts
Abstract: For an assessment of the productivity performance of construction at the industry level, the quality of any analysis can be improved by the availability and use of detailed data on the basic components of the industry’s production function. The EU KLEMS Growth and Productivity Accounts comprise a dataset that provides a rich source of information on the sources of growth by industry, one of which is the construction industry (ISIC 45), since the 1970s for European Union countries and other major economies. The database allows a breakdown of factor inputs by the categorization of capital inputs into asset types and labour inputs into components such as skill levels to provide more precise measurement of sources of growth at industry level. The UK construction sector forms the focal point of the analysis and the results of this analysis provide evidence of a steady increase in the growth of ICT and improved labour skills usage and a relatively high rate of total factor productivity for the UK construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1229-1239
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.645494
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.645494
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1229-1239
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lorraine Sheppard
Author-X-Name-First: Lorraine
Author-X-Name-Last: Sheppard
Title: Improving Healthcare through Built Environment Infrastructure
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1241-1242
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.647827
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.647827
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1241-1242
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberta Pellegrino
Author-X-Name-First: Roberta
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellegrino
Author-Name: Luigi Ranieri
Author-X-Name-First: Luigi
Author-X-Name-Last: Ranieri
Author-Name: Nicola Costantino
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Costantino
Author-Name: Giovanni Mummolo
Author-X-Name-First: Giovanni
Author-X-Name-Last: Mummolo
Title: A real options-based model to supporting risk allocation in price cap regulation approach for public utilities
Abstract: Price cap regulation of public utilities is based on an incentive mechanism to prevent monopolistic infrastructure firms from charging excessive prices. The challenge of this regulation mechanism is to define incentives able to avoid abnormal profits of firms and simultaneously increase quality of service and promote investment projects. A new risk-based approach to support the definition of the fair incentive mechanism as between the regulator, the community and the firm is proposed. The methodology is based on the combined use of real options theory and Monte Carlo simulation. The methodology is then applied to the Italian water market where the regulator adopts a ‘hybrid’ price cap mechanism that gives monopolistic firms the incentive to implement investment projects for reducing the actual infrastructural gap in the water supply system. The results reveal the capability of the proposed model to support public decision makers at the negotiation stage to define the incentive scheme and investment plan able to increase the quality of service allowing a fair risk allocation among parties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1197-1207
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.647828
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.647828
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1197-1207
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Irina Brodetskaia
Author-X-Name-First: Irina
Author-X-Name-Last: Brodetskaia
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Aviad Shapira
Author-X-Name-First: Aviad
Author-X-Name-Last: Shapira
Title: A workflow model for systems and interior finishing works in building construction
Abstract: Modelling the flow of systems and interior finishing works in building construction has been hampered by the inability of traditional critical path modelling to reflect features of these works such as uncertainty, instability, non-linear and interrupted value-adding processes and re-entrant flow. Drawing on empirical data collected in a work study of a large residential project, a novel workflow model is proposed that explicitly models the flows of products and crews at a fine-grained level. The overall model includes a trade workflow model with a module for each work-package type, and a project level model in which multiple trade modules are embedded. The model was tested through implementation of a simulation of a prototypical construction project involving seven work-packages performed in a 20-storey residential tower with 120 customized apartments. The modelled flows of crews through the test building reflected the same behavioural features observed in construction projects. The model enables evaluation of the impact of management policies on production flow at different levels of detail. It is useful as a research tool and for future development of construction management software.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1209-1227
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.647829
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.647829
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1209-1227
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Forthcoming events
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1261-1262
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.649558
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.649558
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1261-1262
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1181-1181
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.650424
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.650424
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1181-1181
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial Board
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: ebi-ebi
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.650483
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.650483
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:ebi-ebi
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Referees for Volume 29 (2011)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1247-1257
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.650484
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.650484
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1247-1257
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Author and Book Review Index
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1259-1260
Issue: 12
Volume: 29
Year: 2011
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2011.650485
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2011.650485
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:29:y:2011:i:12:p:1259-1260
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. George
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: George
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Site operatives’ attitudes towards traditional masculinity ideology in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
There is a widely accepted assumption in the construction literature that the industry is highly masculinised. However, there has been a surprising lack of empirical evidence around workers’ own attitudes towards masculinity in the sector. Addressing this lack of research, a survey to measure construction site operatives’ attitudes towards traditional masculinity ideology was undertaken in Australia using the Male Role Norms Inventory Scale-Short Form (MRNI-SF). It is found that the focus of attitudes towards masculinity in the construction industry may be shifting to reflect trends in the wider population and may be more inclusive and less hegemonic than has been previously argued. It is also found that the focus of masculinity in the construction industry is closely related to the physical and high-risk nature of work and that sexuality and humour may also be an important source of masculine identity. These results are important since they contribute a more nuanced understanding of the dimensions and exact nature of attitudes towards masculinity in the construction industry. It is concluded that future research into the impact of masculinity in areas such as gender diversity, safety and mental health would benefit from a more inclusive theoretical lens which recognises the dynamic nature of masculinity and which highlights the institutional legacies of past hegemonies that have to be challenged to move the industry forward.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 419-432
Issue: 8
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1535713
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1535713
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:8:p:419-432
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Mohamed A. El-Haram
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed A.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Haram
Title: Is the evolution of building sustainability assessment methods promoting the desired sharing of knowledge amongst project stakeholders?
Abstract:
Building sustainability assessment methods (BSAM’s) seek to help project stakeholders understand the predicted and actual sustainability performance of their buildings but are often applied reactively and isolated from project decisions. The last decade has seen BREEAM at the forefront of evolving assessment practice towards a framework approach to help shape project decisions and promote stakeholder learning. The research explores the nature and extent this transition is being realized in practice within four case studies applying BREEAM spanning a 15-year period. Process and knowledge mapping techniques are applied to explore the flow of knowledge required to enable sustainable decisions, stimulate the sharing of understanding, mediation of views and to promote learning amongst stakeholders. Evidence suggested that when applied in progressive projects that the flow of knowledge is strongest when supported by sustainability leadership, a framework approach aligned with project management, an improvement and engagement culture and a strategy for promoting knowledge flow. As practice matures care is needed to ensure engagement remains high and stakeholders are not isolated from the flow of knowledge as projects increasingly rely on sustainability advisors thus losing the opportunity to learn and shape decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 433-460
Issue: 8
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1537502
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1537502
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:8:p:433-460
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kaixun Sha
Author-X-Name-First: Kaixun
Author-X-Name-Last: Sha
Title: Incentive strategies for construction project manager: a common agency perspective
Abstract:
According to the principal-agent theory, the agent should be motivated to behave in a manner consistent with the principal’s requirements. By expanding the focus from the bilateral principal-agent relationship within the firm to the triangular relationship between the client, the construction company and its project manager, this study seeks to explore a new way in which construction firms determining incentive strategies for their construction project managers (CPMs). A common agency model of ‘one servant of two masters’ is established while some negative/positive factors are identified, including rent-seeking effect, collusion effect and check-and-balance effect between the three parties. An autonomy-incentive grid is developed in which one can distinguish four alternative strategies. Implementation costs of each strategy in different scenarios are qualitatively assessed and a set of incentive strategies suitable for different scenarios are determined according to the complicatedness of the project and the type of the client. The model of ‘one servant of two masters’ may provide conceptual insights into incentive strategies for CPMs, and provide practical guidelines for construction firms, but at the same time, it needs testing, verifying and improving in the future practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 461-471
Issue: 8
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1554255
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1554255
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:8:p:461-471
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Festival Godwin Boateng
Author-X-Name-First: Festival Godwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Boateng
Title: A brief case for an organizational grounding for structural safety in the construction sector
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 472-473
Issue: 8
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1591629
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1591629
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:8:p:472-473
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wael Khalil Shadid
Author-X-Name-First: Wael Khalil
Author-X-Name-Last: Shadid
Title: A framework for managing organizations in complex environments
Abstract:
The complex environments of today’s markets makes managing organizations in complexity and turbulence a concern for senior managers, and necessitate developing a dynamic strategic framework to cope with complexity in managing organizations. This paper demonstrates a study that was conducted to value a structured set of management principles and sub-elements by a panel of experts to develop a conceptual framework to manage in complex and very high dynamic environments. The panel consisted of 22 senior level managers of grade “A” companies in the construction industry in Qatar State using a two-round Delphi technique. The study developed two frameworks. The first framework is for managing complexity in the construction sector. The second one is the primary general framework, which forms a basis for a generalized framework for other industries. This study participates in developing valuable management practices in complex environments to tackle uncertainty, unpredictability, disorder, rapid changes and non-linearity, which would be of great help for leaders, senior managers and practitioners who operate in complex environments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 182-202
Issue: 4
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1343483
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1343483
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:4:p:182-202
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Faruk Buyukyoran
Author-X-Name-First: Faruk
Author-X-Name-Last: Buyukyoran
Author-Name: Selin Gundes
Author-X-Name-First: Selin
Author-X-Name-Last: Gundes
Title: Optimized real options-based approach for government guarantees in PPP toll road projects
Abstract:
The uncertainty associated with future traffic levels in Build–Operate–Transfer toll road projects lead to difficulties in obtaining finance and thus to unsuccessful bids. In order to increase the attractiveness of projects for investors, governments usually provide several types of guarantees such as Minimum Revenue Guarantees (MRGs). In many cases, challenges associated with the valuation of this uncertainty force governments to provide excessive guarantees, placing an increased burden on the public budget. Based on this problem, a real-option-based model is presented for the identification of optimum upper and lower boundaries of compound MRG and Maximum Revenue Cap (MRC) options which establish a fair risk allocation structure. The proposed model uses an optimization approach in which high levels of guarantees in initial years are compensated by the transfer of excess revenues obtained by the private investor in late years. The optimum upper and lower boundaries of compound MRG and MRC options are identified using the proposed model. Results reveal that the emerging net guarantee amount generated by using any pair values of the MRG and MRC that remain in the identified interval not only maintains the attractiveness of project for private investors but also restrains government contingent liabilities. Thus, the identified interval of MRG and MRC enables the structuring of a flexible bargaining environment for both parties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 203-216
Issue: 4
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1347267
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1347267
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:4:p:203-216
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Tansey
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Tansey
Author-Name: John P. Spillane
Author-X-Name-First: John P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spillane
Author-Name: Tara Brooks
Author-X-Name-First: Tara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooks
Title: Creating opportunities in the face of an environmental jolt: exploring turnaround strategizing practices within large Irish construction contractors
Abstract:
Firms that face organizational decline choreographed from an environmental jolt must seek new ways of creating opportunities in order to successfully turnaround. As such, the identification of pertinent turnaround strategies becomes increasingly important for senior management. Within the strategy-as-practice scholarly, there have been recent calls to move beyond empirical “isolationism” and to connect with other larger social phenomena; while across the turnaround literature there have been calls to explore the process and micro-structure of turnaround strategies in cyclical environments. To address this research gap, the purpose of the study is to adopt a tall ontology by blending the strategy-as-practice lens with the organizational decline and turnaround lens. By drawing on five exploratory case studies of large Irish construction contractors, the central objective is thus to explore firms’ turnaround strategizing practices during an environmental jolt. In order to advance our tall ontology, we developed a turnaround strategizing process model (and propositions) that integrates our findings, and which offers the fundamental building blocks of a new blended theory. We find that successful turnaround attempts entail the simultaneous interaction of non-aggressive cost retrenchment actions and non-extensive internationalization. The case studies further suggest that during a prolonged environmental jolt, cost retrenchment is more often a long-term strategy. Lastly, the findings provide valuable support for practitioners in developing a successful turnaround response, and in aiding the selection and timing of operational and strategic actions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 217-241
Issue: 4
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1368679
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1368679
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:4:p:217-241
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Plugging into the big debates of the day
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 181-181
Issue: 4
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1446489
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1446489
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:4:p:181-181
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Micael Thunberg
Author-X-Name-First: Micael
Author-X-Name-Last: Thunberg
Author-Name: Anna Fredriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Fredriksson
Title: Bringing planning back into the picture – How can supply chain planning aid in dealing with supply chain-related problems in construction?
Abstract:
There are several supply chain-related problems facing the construction industry, such as poor construction site logistics, lack of communication and trust. These problems can jeopardize construction projects through delays and cost overruns. Supply chain planning, a part of supply chain management (SCM), can be used as a tool to deal with these problems. The purpose of this paper is to study how linkages between common supply chain-related problems in construction can be illustrated and to demonstrate how they could be resolved through supply chain planning. Firstly, we identify how the linkages between common problems can be illustrated, and secondly the role of supply chain planning in resolving these problems. A conceptual model is developed that was verified using three cases with Swedish gypsum and kitchen supply chains. The model is shown to be useful in illustrating how supply chain problems occurring at executional level on-site are related to problems originating in lack of planning at company/pre-construction level. The study thus demonstrates how supply chain planning can aid in resolving supply chain problems. The paper contributes by bringing planning back into the picture and by showing how supply chain planning can help to adopt SCM in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 425-442
Issue: 8
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1394579
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1394579
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:8:p:425-442
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tan Hai Dang Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Tan Hai Dang
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Nicholas Chileshe
Author-X-Name-First: Nicholas
Author-X-Name-Last: Chileshe
Author-Name: Raufdeen Rameezdeen
Author-X-Name-First: Raufdeen
Author-X-Name-Last: Rameezdeen
Title: External stakeholder strategic actions in construction projects: a Vietnamese study
Abstract:
Although understanding the influence of external stakeholders is crucial to achieving project success, little attention has been given to investigate their specific influence strategies. Based on a modified theoretical framework, we conducted a multiple-case study to explore common combinations and sequencings of specific actions that these stakeholders take to affect construction projects. Seven specific influence strategies were found: (i) inputs withholding, (ii) inputs compromising, (iii) communication, (iv) direct action, (v) coalition building, (vi) conflict escalation and (vii) credibility building. Stakeholders combined the last five strategies in three pairs persuading decision makers to take action. Coalition building - communication was the most prevalent combination that stakeholders use to influence decision-makers. The combination of communication and credibility building was found in cases having environmental disputes. Direct action and conflict escalation were exerted together in projects affecting the locals adversely. Some common patterns of stakeholder strategic actions were also observed. First, direct action came into existence after communication, followed by conflict escalation. Second, after establishing their credibility via persuasive evidence, experts’ judgements and the like, stakeholders used those outcomes to communicate to decision-makers. We emphasize the need for full and honest engagement with stakeholders to prevent their adverse influence on construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 443-458
Issue: 8
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1432866
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1432866
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:8:p:443-458
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hsien-Hung Herman Yeh
Author-X-Name-First: Hsien-Hung Herman
Author-X-Name-Last: Yeh
Title: How the capital structure of firms is determined over business cycles: further evidence from the construction industry of Taiwan
Abstract:
This paper uses the panel data regression model to study the Taiwanese construction industry during the period 1982–1995 because during this period, Taiwan’s gross domestic product shows a structural change in economic growth trends over three business cycles. This design allows us to examine whether the effects of firm characteristics and economic growth on capital structure vary with macroeconomic conditions and across periods with changing economic growth trends. First, the results show that the effect of macroeconomic conditions on capital structure is counter-cyclical. Second, the effects of firm characteristics on capital structure can vary with macroeconomic conditions, although firm characteristics do not have a direct effect on capital structure. Third, the effects of firm characteristics on capital structure can vary across periods with changing economic growth trends. Finally, economic growth does not have a direct effect on capital structure. However, the effect of economic growth on capital structure can vary with macroeconomic conditions and across periods with changing economic growth trends. The findings of this study can be a helpful reference for financial managers, creditors, investors and government policy-makers in emerging countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-471
Issue: 8
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1435896
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1435896
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:8:p:459-471
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yongqiang Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yongqiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Wenqian Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Wenqian
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Shuibo Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Shuibo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Jingya You
Author-X-Name-First: Jingya
Author-X-Name-Last: You
Title: Understanding the multiple functions of construction contracts: the anatomy of FIDIC model contracts
Abstract:
Construction contracts, such as FIDIC model contracts, are relatively complex and cumbersome, and their composition needs to be better understood. This research uses a multi-functional approach that is widely recognized in the contract literature, and anatomizes FIDIC model contracts in order to gain a holistic and comprehensive understanding of them. Moreover, this research comparatively analyses the distribution of the three functions, namely control, coordination and adaptation, in four forms of FIDIC model contracts to explore how project delivery systems (PDSs) affect contract design. After a classification framework that includes three functions and ten subclasses was established, the FIDIC 1999 series model contracts were coded sentence by sentence using content analysis. The results show that the three functions are all non-trivially reflected in construction contracts and are influenced by project complexity. Regarding different PDSs, the complexity of contract control is relatively rigid; the complexity of contract coordination is largely influenced by PDSs; and the impact of PDSs on the complexity of adaptation provisions depends on the sub-class. The conclusions may help scholars and practitioners understand construction contracts from a functional perspective, and offer references for contract designers to reasonably consider the distribution of the three functions in construction contracts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 472-485
Issue: 8
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1449955
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1449955
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:8:p:472-485
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Title: Rationale: the necessary ingredient for contributions to theory and practice
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 423-424
Issue: 8
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1487910
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1487910
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:8:p:423-424
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ricardo Leoto
Author-X-Name-First: Ricardo
Author-X-Name-Last: Leoto
Author-Name: Gonzalo Lizarralde
Author-X-Name-First: Gonzalo
Author-X-Name-Last: Lizarralde
Title: Challenges for integrated design (ID) in sustainable buildings
Abstract:
It is often argued that integrated design (ID) is a powerful way to enhance collaboration in construction projects. This collaboration is seen as a way of improving innovation to create more sustainable buildings. Contrary to the traditional silo-type and linear design process, ID is based on upfront stakeholder involvement and a holistic approach to project decision-making. Although ID’s premises are theoretically-founded, a close empirical look at its practices shows that numerous challenges compromise its results and efficiency. This study examines the ID process through an iterative process that includes the construction of a conceptual framework and its empirical validation. We examine three green construction projects in Canada. Based on the analysis of 26 interviews with key project stakeholders and more than 198 construction documents, the study assembles – and ultimately applies – a multi-lens framework based on four themes: the fragmented nature of construction; risk perception; stakeholders’ commitment; and efficiency in the design process. Results show that three tensions arise in ID practices: between collaboration and process efficiency, between short-term and long-term goals, and between integrated methods and traditional ones. The study sheds light on ID limits and reveals how stakeholders can improve their interactions to design more sustainable buildings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 625-642
Issue: 11
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1569249
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1569249
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:11:p:625-642
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yousaf Ali
Author-X-Name-First: Yousaf
Author-X-Name-Last: Ali
Author-Name: Muhammad Sabir
Author-X-Name-First: Muhammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Sabir
Author-Name: Noor Muhammad
Author-X-Name-First: Noor
Author-X-Name-Last: Muhammad
Title: A comparative input-output analysis of the construction sector in three developing economies of South Asia
Abstract:
Construction is commonly regarded as one of the major industries of an economy that is receiving a significant attention in the developing countries. This paper uses the Asian Development Bank (ADB) input-output database at constant prices for the selected Asian countries, i.e. Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal to analyze and compare the performance of the construction sector in these economies. The novelty of this research is the application of multiple linkages methods. First, the standard measures of the backward and forward linkages are used to examine the induced output created by the demand push and supply pull effects of the construction industry. Second, the concept of Hypothetical Extraction Method (HEM) is applied to extract a sector hypothetically from an economic system and then to examine the influence of that extraction on the rest of the economy. The results indicate that the construction sector has a strong backward and weak forward linkages for all the three economies. Furthermore, results reveal that the ‘pull effect’ is very significant in these countries while the ‘push effect is very insignificant. With respect to the identification of the key sectors, the findings of the traditional methods are very different from those of the hypothetical extraction methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 643-658
Issue: 11
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1571214
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1571214
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:11:p:643-658
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. van den Boomen
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: van den Boomen
Author-Name: G. Leontaris
Author-X-Name-First: G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leontaris
Author-Name: A. R. M. Wolfert
Author-X-Name-First: A. R. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wolfert
Title: Replacement optimization of ageing infrastructure under differential inflation
Abstract:
Ageing public infrastructure assets necessitate economic replacement analysis. A common replacement problem concerns an existing asset challenged by a replacement option. Classic techniques obtained from the domain of engineering economics are the mainstream approach to replacement optimization in practice. However, the validity of these classic techniques is built on the assumption that life cycle cash flows of a replacement option are repetitive. Differential inflation undermines this assumption and therefore more advanced replacement optimization techniques are required under these circumstances. These techniques are found in the domain of operations research and require linear or dynamic programming (LP/DP). Since LP/DP techniques are complex and time-consuming, the current study develops an alternative model for replacement optimizations under differential inflation. This approach builds on the classic capitalized equivalent replacement technique. The alternative model is validated by comparison with a DP model showing to be equally accurate for a case with characteristics that apply to many infrastructure assets.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 659-674
Issue: 11
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1574977
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1574977
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:11:p:659-674
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ying Hong
Author-X-Name-First: Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Hong
Author-Name: Ahmed W. A. Hammad
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed W. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hammad
Author-Name: Ali Akbarnezhad
Author-X-Name-First: Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Akbarnezhad
Title: Impact of organization size and project type on BIM adoption in the Chinese construction market
Abstract:
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is perceived as an effective tool for improving the delivery and coordination of construction projects. The Chinese construction sector has demonstrated significant interest in implementing the 3-dimensional modelling-based process. BIM adoption is influenced by several factors which can either be operational or strategic related. Factors which can have a significant impact include the size of the construction organization and the type of projects that the organization has to deliver (i.e. building vs infrastructure projects). This study aims to evaluate the effect of project type and size on BIM adoption in the Chinese market, via an adoption model which analyses factors impacting the adoption decision. The study examines 200 samples collected from the Chinese construction industry, split equally between infrastructure and building construction data groups, as well as SMEs and large organizations. The collected data are first analyzed by principal component analysis and then through a Structural Equation Modelling-based multiple group analysis. Results demonstrate that essential factors such as operational risks are considered by small organization, whereas large organizations focus on implementation challenges. Implementation benefits and challenges are significant on the adoption decision in infrastructure organizations, but not in building organizations. In addition, the study reveals that “technical support” is an important factor when it comes to BIM adoption among all types of organizations, regardless of the organization’s size and project type delivered.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 675-691
Issue: 11
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1575515
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1575515
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:11:p:675-691
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Revisiting basics: theoretically-grounded interesting research that addresses challenges that matter
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-10
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1702251
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1702251
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:1-10
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Oswald
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oswald
Title: Safety indicators: questioning the quantitative dominance
Abstract:
Safety indicators aim to provide information about the condition or state of safety within an organization. Typically, construction practitioners and researchers have focused on quantifying these indicators to provide precise measurement. It is argued that there has been a tendency to focus on the quantity, whilst ignoring qualitative indicators that can also provide valuable insights into the state of safety. Precise measurement has arguably been intensified by ‘borrowing’ leading indicators from the field of economics, which use quantitative frameworks. It is raised that the well-documented statistical limitations surrounding leading and lagging indicators should not be merely viewed as threats to reliability but should be considered as opportunities to further understand the state of safety through the development of appropriate qualitative indicators. A quantitative-only framework may be appropriate in the field of economics; however, this essay challenges the assumption that a similar approach can be implemented within the complex context of construction safety management. A call for researchers and practitioners to consider the qualitative indicators of safety; these can provide powerful insights into both why the state of safety is positive or negative, and how to help future accident prevention.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 11-17
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1605184
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1605184
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:11-17
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mustafa Selçuk Çıdık
Author-X-Name-First: Mustafa Selçuk
Author-X-Name-Last: Çıdık
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: “Shared sense of purposefulness”: a new concept to understand the practice of coordinating design in construction
Abstract:
Construction management literature sees the collective task of coordinating design as being about the “‘integration’” of “fragmented” discipline-specific design tasks/outputs, thus overlooking the important role of social interactions. This is not only conceptually problematic but also presents a practical management problem. As a response, a practice-based approach, which relies on a “becoming” ontology, is adopted for a practical explanation of design coordination for more effective design management. The adopted methodology suggests that design develops as a result of unfolding (path-dependent) individual actions and interdisciplinary interactions. Based on this, the concept of a “shared sense of purposefulness” is proposed to refer to the temporary and precarious organizational state of a design team in which each of the interacting team members has achieved a state of purposefulness to resume individual action. Hence, design coordination in construction is redefined as continuously re-establishing and maintaining “a shared sense of purposefulness”. The concept’s usefulness for understanding the practice of design coordination is demonstrated using data collected from a project in the UK. The discussion enables fresh insights into the everyday operation of design coordination. It is concluded that the proposed conception paves a way forward both for the research and practice in construction design management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 18-31
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1593471
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1593471
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:18-31
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hazel Ponton
Author-X-Name-First: Hazel
Author-X-Name-Last: Ponton
Author-Name: Allan Osborne
Author-X-Name-First: Allan
Author-X-Name-Last: Osborne
Author-Name: Neill Thompson
Author-X-Name-First: Neill
Author-X-Name-Last: Thompson
Author-Name: David Greenwood
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Greenwood
Title: The power of humour to unite and divide: a case study of design coordination meetings in construction
Abstract:
Design coordination meetings are the formal discussion venues that support interdisciplinary group interaction during the construction process. Social behaviour needs to be recognized, understood, and evaluated by group members if meetings are to be productive. The role of humour during the practice of coordinating building design has not previously been studied. A non-participant observation method was used to collect qualitative data from consecutive contractor-led design team meetings during a live building project. Using a 360° panoramic video-recording camera, episodes of humour were captured and collated into packets of rich data. These packets were then organized, structured, and analysed using NVivo computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software. The results of the analysis showed that instances of humour do not happen at random but at specific times when they performed distinct functions to facilitate the design coordination process. One notable example was the role of humour in helping to form a cohesive team that was able to manage conflict successfully and thus engender a positive cultural environment. The inclusive findings of the study have demonstrated that humour is a functional aspect of group dynamics during the coordination of design in construction that can influence social interaction and task-related performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 32-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1656339
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1656339
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:32-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniella Troje
Author-X-Name-First: Daniella
Author-X-Name-Last: Troje
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Title: Populating the social realm: new roles arising from social procurement
Abstract:
Employment requirements, as part of social procurement, are increasingly used in construction procurement as a tool to mitigate issues of exclusion on the job market. To create a better understanding how employment requirements nurtures a new type of actor, here named the “employment requirement professional” (ERP), the aim of this paper is to study how this role is framed in terms of work practices and professional identity. Building on 21 semi-structured interviews in the Swedish construction sector, a detailed account of who works with employment requirements, how and why they conduct their work is provided. The findings show how ERPs mediate between contrasting interests when they create new social procurement roles and practices; how they enact different approaches to promote social sustainability, how their roles are formed by multiple and reciprocal lines of actions, and how they make sense of who they are and what type of work they engage in. The research contributes to a discussion on effects from social procurement in construction and the emergence of a new professional role, their identity and work practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-70
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1597273
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1597273
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:55-70
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tara Brooks
Author-X-Name-First: Tara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooks
Author-Name: Lloyd Scott
Author-X-Name-First: Lloyd
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Author-Name: John P. Spillane
Author-X-Name-First: John P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spillane
Author-Name: Katy Hayward
Author-X-Name-First: Katy
Author-X-Name-Last: Hayward
Title: Irish construction cross border trade and Brexit: Practitioner perceptions on the periphery of Europe
Abstract:
The United Kingdom (UK) Brexit vote of June 2016 has created unprecedented uncertainty in the construction industry in Ireland but little research to date has been undertaken on existing construction trading patterns and the potential effects of regulatory divergence and other non-tariff barriers in Ireland in this context. In response, this study uses mixed methods to fill this gap in knowledge. The experience of nine construction industry interviewees is probed – five based in Northern Ireland (in the UK) and four from Ireland, which will remain in the EU after the UK leaves. The researchers’ analysis of the qualitative data generated themes which were tested through investigation of the 101 eligible responses gathered through an online questionnaire. Our findings demonstrate that the construction trade in Ireland is highly mobile, currently trading extensively North – South and East – West. The physical barrier of the Irish Sea is less of a hindrance to trade than the regulatory barrier of the Irish border. Trade from peripheral areas is drawn to economic centres in Dublin and GB. In the view of the respondents, Brexit will impose further non-tariff barriers, although it is difficult to predict and plan for these barriers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 71-90
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1679382
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1679382
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:71-90
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martine van den Boomen
Author-X-Name-First: Martine
Author-X-Name-Last: van den Boomen
Author-Name: Matthijs T. J. Spaan
Author-X-Name-First: Matthijs T. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spaan
Author-Name: Yue Shang
Author-X-Name-First: Yue
Author-X-Name-Last: Shang
Author-Name: A. R. M. Wolfert
Author-X-Name-First: A. R. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wolfert
Title: Infrastructure maintenance and replacement optimization under multiple uncertainties and managerial flexibility
Abstract:
Infrastructure maintenance and replacement decisions are subject to uncertainties such as regular asset degradation, structural failure, and price uncertainty. In the engineering domain, Markov Decision Processes (MDPs) typically focus on uncertainties regarding asset degradation and structural failure. While the literature in the engineering domain stresses the importance of addressing price uncertainties, it does not substantiate the observations of such uncertainties through optimization modeling. By contrast, real option analyses (ROAs) that originate from the financial domain address price uncertainties but generally disregard asset degradation and structural failure. Accordingly, this piece of current research brings both domains closer together and proposes an optimization approach that incorporates the flexibility to choose between multiple successive intervention strategies, regular asset degradation, structural failure and multiple price uncertainties. A practical result of the current research is a realistic approach to optimization modeling in which state space reduction is achieved by combining prices into portfolios. The current research obtains transition probabilities from existing price data. This approach is demonstrated using a case study of a water authority in the Netherlands and confirms the premise that price fluctuations may influence short-term maintenance and replacement decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 91-107
Issue: 1
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1674450
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1674450
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:1:p:91-107
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: S. Reid
Author-X-Name-First: S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Reid
Title: The social procurement practices of tier-one construction contractors in Australia
Abstract:
Social procurement is becoming an increasingly important requirement in the delivery of private- and public- sector construction projects across the world, yet there is relatively little research done in this area. Mobilising Furneaux and Barraket’s social procurement typology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior managers from eight tier-one contractors in the Australian construction industry to explore and classify the types of social procurement strategies used in projects, the types of social value created and the barriers to implementation. Documentary data were collected in the form of company policies and contract requirements. Results demonstrate the conceptual merit of Furneaux and Barraket’s typology in a construction industry context by highlighting different constraints on social value creation for each type of social procurement. These results also indicate that approaches to social procurement in the Australian construction industry are generally driven by a philosophy of risk mitigation rather than opportunity maximisation, and are confined to low-value and low-risk construction activities and are constrained by a lack of existing and new supply chain social-value creation capacity. Construction industry social value chains are fragile in Australia, and it is concluded that in building the sector’s significant untapped capacity to deliver social value to the communities in which it builds, priority should be given to three main strategies: third sector capacity building; barrier-to-entry reduction and skills development in managing new cross-sector collaborations among public, private and third sector organisations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-200
Issue: 4
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1505048
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1505048
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:4:p:183-200
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Toppinen
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Toppinen
Author-Name: Miska Sauru
Author-X-Name-First: Miska
Author-X-Name-Last: Sauru
Author-Name: Satu Pätäri
Author-X-Name-First: Satu
Author-X-Name-Last: Pätäri
Author-Name: Katja Lähtinen
Author-X-Name-First: Katja
Author-X-Name-Last: Lähtinen
Author-Name: Anni Tuppura
Author-X-Name-First: Anni
Author-X-Name-Last: Tuppura
Title: Internal and external factors of competitiveness shaping the future of wooden multistory construction in Finland and Sweden
Abstract:
In transitioning to a renewable material-based bio economy, growing public and industry interest is apparent for using wooden multistory construction (WMC) as a sustainable urban housing solution in Europe, but its business implications are not well understood. In our study, we evaluate, which internal and external factors of competitiveness are shaping the future of WMC, especially in the context of Finland and Sweden. Based on a multi-level perspective of socio-technical transitions, we conducted a three-stage dissensus-based Delphi study. The identified internal and external factors affecting the future competitiveness of the WMC business emphasize the importance of skilled architects and builders and the role of standardized building systems. Based on our results, the key aspects influencing the future competitiveness of WMC in the region are related to the development of technical infrastructure and project-based business networks, while additional changes in regulatory framework are perceived as less important. We conclude that towards 2030, the strong cognitive rules founded in the concrete-based building culture in these countries is likely to inhibit the dynamics of the socio-technical regime level. A change is also needed in the WMC business culture towards more open cross-sectoral collaboration and new business networks between different-sized players.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 201-216
Issue: 4
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1513162
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1513162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:4:p:201-216
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alolote I. Amadi
Author-X-Name-First: Alolote I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Amadi
Author-Name: Anthony Higham
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Higham
Title: Putting context to numbers: a geotechnical risk trajectory to cost overrun extremism
Abstract:
The study investigates the cause of the unusually high cost overruns experienced in highway project delivery in the tropical wetland setting of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. An empirical profiling of cost overrun research reveals the predominance of mono-method studies, all of which are underlain by positivism. The study argues that such positivist philosophies, although methodologically valid, cannot adequately provide in-depth understanding of the contextual cost overrun drivers in highway organisations. Using a mix of methods, the paper examines the contribution of geotechnical risks to the extreme cost overruns experienced on Niger Delta’s highway projects, and demonstrates the relevance of context in cost overrun research. Adopting a geotechnical narrative, data sourced from 61 highway projects along with 16 interviews conducted with highway agencies in the region is analysed. The results of the analysis identified that poor project governance and procurement practices, have inhibited the competent management of geotechnical risk, creating a propensity for extreme cost overruns on highway projects. The study submits the phenomenon of cost overruns in public infrastructure projects is underlain by a complexity of contextual social constructs, which would have been overlooked in positivists studies. Cost overrun research, therefore, needs to be contextually and numerically anchored.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 217-237
Issue: 4
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1513656
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1513656
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:4:p:217-237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Simon D. Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Safety first? Production pressures and the implications on safety and health
Abstract:
The prominence of production, schedule, cost and economic wellbeing in government policy and review is explored and contrasted with the status of safety. The connection between productivity as an objective and safety as a constraint is reviewed, though it can be concluded that in spite of widespread belief of a connection there is very little empirical causal evidence for high production pressure causing negative effects on safety. Nevertheless, the inverse is mooted, that high levels of safety has had a negative impact on productivity in construction. This possibility is discussed in the context of government rhetoric which tends to be highly critical of construction’s economic shortcomings yet quite silent on the matter of its safety successes. The essay concludes with a possible vision for the future that allows safety and productivity to be re-positioned in terms of their potential symbiosis.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 238-242
Issue: 4
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1537501
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1537501
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:4:p:238-242
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ian Stewart
Author-X-Name-First: Ian
Author-X-Name-Last: Stewart
Author-Name: Peter Fenn
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Fenn
Author-Name: Elika Aminian
Author-X-Name-First: Elika
Author-X-Name-Last: Aminian
Title: Human research ethics – is construction management research concerned?
Abstract:
Construction Management Research (CMR) depends upon human beings participating in research, the quality of treatment of participants having direct effect on the quality of their participation, in turn that of the research itself, making treatment of humans and the ethical dilemmas that can ensue an important area of competence for CM (Construction Management) researchers. Does the growing field of CMR demonstrate appropriate concern for human research ethics? Evidence of typical CMR research is taken from the online Cooperative Network for Building Researchers (CNBR), particularly a search for “informed consent” collateral. It was found that there was little concern with human research ethics, which we argue is also evident in the lack of research on this matter in CMR-related literature, or any reference to these matters in the relevant professional and institutional bodies. Reasons as to why this might be are proposed. The consequences of the apparent level of concern are that participants can be exposed to “wrongs”, despite pressures for compliance from institutional ethics boards. However, the discipline of critically evaluating human research approach through a framework of ethical considerations is not only morally correct, at least according to the morality that is concerned for consequences to participants, but is also objectively useful to researchers, improving the reliability and validity of their research and lowering barriers to participation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 665-675
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1315151
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1315151
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:665-675
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Meghdad Attarzadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Meghdad
Author-X-Name-Last: Attarzadeh
Author-Name: David K.H. Chua
Author-X-Name-First: David K.H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chua
Author-Name: Michael Beer
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Beer
Author-Name: Ernest L.S. Abbott
Author-X-Name-First: Ernest L.S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Abbott
Title: Options-based negotiation management of PPP–BOT infrastructure projects
Abstract:
The success of public–private partnership (PPP)–build–operate–transfer (BOT) projects largely depends on effectively mitigating the impact of a variety of risks and uncertainties, especially those influencing the revenue over time. Revenue instability is one of the main obstacles of PPP form of procurement. Government support, which is established as a clause in the concession agreement, should be carefully designed and well formulated. Options which arise from certain clauses in the contract are more valuable for risky projects. The purpose of this paper’s proposed model is to evaluate early fund generation options and also to calculate equitable bounds for a guaranteed revenue for the project sponsor under uncertainty and risk. The model is specially designed to alleviate the concern of revenue risk. To illustrate its applicability the methodology is then applied to a freeway PPP project and a power plant PPP project in Iran. The results show that the value of these options can indeed be significant and by applying the proposed systematic negotiation mechanism both public and private sectors can take advantage of its flexibility at the negotiation table. The proposed mechanisms can facilitate negotiations on the verge of a break down as well as accelerating ongoing negotiations that have become moribund.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 676-692
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1325962
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1325962
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:676-692
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiancun Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Xiancun
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Slacks-based data envelopment analysis for eco-efficiency assessment in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
Eco-efficiency as an important indicator for sustainability assessment can describe an integrated manner of economic growth, resource conservation and environmental protection. However, the current research could not correctly assess eco-efficiency and mostly utilize qualitative methods. This paper presents a new method called slacks-based Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to assess eco-efficiency based on directly and systematically dealing with the slacks of reducing resource consumption and minimizing environmental impacts, together with adding production value. Two DEA models are respectively, defined using inter-temporal and window benchmark techniques, so as to compare eco-efficiency results in temporal and spatial dimensions and then identify production benchmarks and gaps. Efficiency change and technological change, which are two driving forces for eco-efficiency change, are also investigated through a production-theoretical decomposition analysis. Data from the Australian construction industry from 1990 to 2013 are employed to specify the two DEA models. The research results illustrate that the construction industries in the Australian regions showed significant increases in eco-efficiency during the research period, but the gaps among them were increased due to the severe underperformance of technological change. This research primarily provides a innovative pathway for accurate eco-efficiency assessment and quantitative identification of reducing resource consumption, minimizing environmental impacts and adding production value. The developed research framework is generic and can assist worldwide construction projects, organizations and industries to measure, compare and assess eco-efficiency systematically.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 693-706
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1325963
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1325963
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:693-706
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Sage
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Sage
Title: Thinking with materialities in construction management: a response to Alexander Styhre
Abstract:
Alexander Styhre recently challenged Construction Management and Engineering (CME) scholarship to develop a stronger contribution to debates around materiality in mainstream management and organization studies. The rationale for his challenge is that CME scholars have a unique engagement with an important materiality – the built environment – that affords them a significant, yet largely unrealized, potential to inform wider debates about the materiality of social and organizational life. In my response here I do not disagree with Styhre’s overall argument. Instead I critically reflect, via a discussion of two themes implicit within his proposals – hiddenness and managerial power – on the rather unitary formulation of his argument. In so doing I do not so much seek to flag up challenges as to enliven his proposals by discussing the breadth of opportunities for contribution presented to CME academics in engaging with materialities with general management and organization scholarship.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 657-662
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1348612
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1348612
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:657-662
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Christina M. Scott-Young
Author-X-Name-First: Christina M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott-Young
Author-Name: Sarah Holdsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Holdsworth
Title: Promoting wellbeing at university: the role of resilience for students of the built environment
Abstract:
Resilience is positively linked to academic engagement and achievement, and contributes to students’ mental health and wellbeing. Research was undertaken to measure the resilience of students undertaking studies in the built environment, identify the factors which contribute to high or low levels of student resilience and explore the relationship between resilience and wellbeing. Survey data were collected from 410 undergraduate students from Melbourne, Australia. Results identified that of the six components of resilience, students scored highest on building networks, staying healthy, interacting cooperatively and living authentically, and lowest in maintaining perspective. Experience, university policy and the interaction between the university, work and home environments was found to contribute to student resilience. Results also identified that resilience is an antecedent of student wellbeing. A conceptual model of resilience and student wellbeing is presented which draws on the ecological systems model. Universities can actively support student wellbeing by fostering resilience. Resilience can be developed by embedding resilience-building strategies within course structures, learning activities and assessment tasks. Universities can implement policies and procedures and offer assets and resources which create a learning environment that supports resilience-building behaviour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 707-718
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1353698
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1353698
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:707-718
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: Thinking with Daniel Sage: some final remarks
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 663-664
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1371418
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1371418
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:663-664
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 655-656
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1396718
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1396718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:655-656
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Indexes for Volume 35 (2017)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 719-719
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1400155
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1400155
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:719-719
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Indexes for Volume 35 (2017)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 720-724
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1403092
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1403092
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:11-12:p:720-724
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita M. M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: ‘What does this mean’? Sensemaking in the strategic action field of construction
Abstract:
Debate continues over the nature of the construction industry as a conglomeration, its boundaries (n.b., whether design is included), how it operates and with what objectives. Fragmentation remains a widely cited detriment to performance. However, the evolving development of field theory, notably, strategic action fields (SAF), provides a new and more embracing perspective that focuses on relationships and context that argues for mapping and analyses of network relationships between actors to provide a richer picture. The diversity of actors on any construction project, especially in increasingly ‘enterprise’ environments and the, consequent, operating processes accentuate atomism, individual goals and lack of integration. Thus, construction projects have very different meanings for each actor. The sensemaking perspective gives insights into how the actors, individually and collectively, interpret the myriad signals that they perceive to determine meaning and invoke action within their network of relationships in SAF. This study undertakes a critical review of theory and literature concerning sensemaking within networks of actors that constitute the SAF of construction to explore how those perspectives may be applied and the consequences for actors, processes and products. The underpinning concept is that those two perspectives – SAF and sensemaking – are vertically complimentary. It is found that, although little empirical study has been done in applying those bodies of theory to construction, the perspectives have considerable potential for application to enhance understanding of construction project processes and contexts, inter-relationships within and between the networks of participants, their actions and understandings – and, thereby, enhancement of performance in its broadest sense.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 578-596
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1231409
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1231409
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:578-596
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Aaron Opdyke
Author-X-Name-First: Aaron
Author-X-Name-Last: Opdyke
Author-Name: Florence Lepropre
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Lepropre
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Author-Name: Matthew Koschmann
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew
Author-X-Name-Last: Koschmann
Title: Inter-organizational resource coordination in post-disaster infrastructure recovery
Abstract:
Despite significant advances in strengthening post-disaster recovery efforts, misaligned strategy and inefficient resource allocation are far too often the norm for infrastructure reconstruction. To examine the inter-organizational networks that form to coordinate resources for infrastructure reconstruction, we employed social network analysis in 19 communities in the Philippines following Super Typhoon Haiyan, at 6 and 12 months post-disaster. To build these networks, we analysed interview, field observation and documentation data collected from non-governmental organizations, local governments and communities. A survey questionnaire was also administered to organizations working in selected communities to validate networks. Results from network analysis established that information was the most commonly shared resource by organizations, followed by financial, material and human resources. Government agencies had the highest actor centralities; however, qualitative data suggest that these roles were the result of obligatory consultations by international organizations and lacked legitimacy in practice. Findings further demonstrate that networks become more decentralized over time as actors leave and roles become more established, influenced by short-term expatriate contracts and the termination of United Nations supported cluster coordination. Findings could help organizations strengthen humanitarian response efforts by attending to resource allocation and knowledge sharing with other organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 514-530
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1247973
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1247973
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:514-530
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cristina Poleacovschi
Author-X-Name-First: Cristina
Author-X-Name-Last: Poleacovschi
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Author-Name: Tony Tong
Author-X-Name-First: Tony
Author-X-Name-Last: Tong
Title: The link between knowledge sharing connections and employee time savings: A social network analysis
Abstract:
Social network research has shown that knowledge sharing connections facilitate access to valuable resources. However, little is known about which knowledge sharing connections save knowledge seekers the most time on their daily tasks. To address this gap, this research analyses knowledge sharing connections that provide time savings, measured as the time individuals saved on daily tasks as a result of receiving knowledge from other employees. The research evaluates time savings based on the strength of connection, the network distance between the seeker and provider and the provider’s centrality in the network. To conduct this study, the research team analysed a data-set of 10,849 knowledge sharing dyads reported through a survey administered in one department in a large construction and engineering organization. Data were analysed using social network analysis and multiple regression quadratic assignment procedure. Results showed that stronger connections were assessed as more beneficial for time savings, especially when the connections were with central actors who had higher closeness centrality scores. Knowledge seekers also had a higher assessment of time savings when they were closer (in terms of network distance) to the knowledge provider. These results show that knowledge network reach and strong knowledge connections are essential for achieving everyday work efficiency. Furthermore, the results add to theories of strong and weak connections by showing that strong ties are favourable for achieving time savings in the context of construction and engineering organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 455-467
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1287414
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1287414
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:455-467
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Robert G. Boutilier
Author-X-Name-First: Robert G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Boutilier
Author-Name: Michal Zdziarski
Author-X-Name-First: Michal
Author-X-Name-Last: Zdziarski
Title: Managing stakeholder networks for a social license to build
Abstract:
When construction projects are halted or slowed by conflicts with stakeholders, they have lost their social license. Social licenses are granted by stakeholder networks, which include community groups, among others. Project managers would benefit from approaches that can predict which groups or coalitions within the stakeholder network have sufficient influence and motivation to delay progress and that can suggest interventions to reduce that risk. We present an integration of theories and methods that has been successfully used in the extractive industries to maintain a high level of social license. We define the social license concept, noting its embeddedness in stakeholder theory and the resource dependence view of the firm, and how it has been elaborated enough to become measurable. Then we integrate it with social network analysis and methods for quantifying stakeholders’ issues and concerns. Key benefits are the ability to identify minority clusters that have sufficient influence to dominate the majority and the specification of network interventions to raise the level of social license. We use an example of a proposed housing project to illustrate how the proposed approach produces practical stakeholder relations strategies for gaining and maintaining a social license to build.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 498-513
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1289229
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1289229
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:498-513
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Eleni Papadonikolaki
Author-X-Name-First: Eleni
Author-X-Name-Last: Papadonikolaki
Author-Name: Alexander Verbraeck
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Verbraeck
Author-Name: Hans Wamelink
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Wamelink
Title: Formal and informal relations within BIM-enabled supply chain partnerships
Abstract:
Supply chain management (SCM) and building information modelling (BIM) are innovations that focus on integration. Recent literature suggests performance benefits from combining these innovations. Within supply chain (SC) partnerships, that use BIM – hereinafter called BIM-enabled SC partnerships – various formal and informal dimensions influence the inter-organizational relations. To understand such partnerships, a mixed method approach featuring case studies and social networks analysis (SNA) was deployed. SNA was an analytic approach to explore the complex relations within two Dutch BIM-enabled projects. The inter-organizational relations were asymmetrical and formal in Case A, emphasizing transactions, whereas in Case B, they were asymmetrical and informal, emphasizing relations. The transactional-oriented partnership had greater control over contractual issues, but their formal relations were not sufficient for diffusing BIM-related knowledge across the chain. Conversely, the relational-oriented partnership engaged the partners in BIM by informal means, e.g. dense communication and BIM-related peer-learning across all tiers. Symmetric and jointly fostered formal and informal relations contribute to SC integration. The study extends the knowledge base of SCM and BIM, by offering real-world data on their combination. Besides providing new insights into SNA deployment for BIM-related research, it also offers a novel constructivist and inter-organizational perspective on the old concept of SCM.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 531-552
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1311020
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1311020
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:531-552
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alberto De Biasio
Author-X-Name-First: Alberto
Author-X-Name-Last: De Biasio
Author-Name: Alex Murray
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Murray
Title: The social network of the UK PPP secondary equity market – returns and competition in an emerging market
Abstract:
In recent years, the UK’s private finance initiative secondary equity market has increased in size and maturity as primary investors, principally contractors, liquidate their stakes. As an emerging unlisted market, research challenges include the availability of timely and comprehensive information about equity transactions, as well as established methods for their interpretation and comparison. Data on transactions between 1998 and 2012, collected in the European Services Strategy Unit PPP equity database, are used to map this market and analysed using network theory. Active sellers and buyers are identified providing insight on the levels of competition. Following Granovetter’s conceptualization of SNA, actors operating in the secondary equity market (buyers and sellers of SPV equity – contractors, equity funds, banks, institutional investors amongst others) are characterized in terms of out-degree centrality, increasing with the number of actors within a seller’s ego network. The ties created through equity sales are applied in the formation of the market network. The notion that out-degree centrality of sellers can improve overall financial returns is examined with data on initial equity investment and sale values. Isolating returns on equity based on capital appreciation for a sample of transactions reveals that annualized return on equity is seemingly not improved by higher out-degree centrality, when compared to average returns. A more general contribution is provided through the visualization of the network of equity transactions in this emerging market.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 468-481
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1324998
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1324998
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:468-481
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Calvin Keung
Author-X-Name-First: Calvin
Author-X-Name-Last: Keung
Author-Name: Liyin Shen
Author-X-Name-First: Liyin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shen
Title: Network strategy for contractors’ business competitiveness
Abstract:
Establishing a cooperative network has emerged as a strategy for contractors to improve their business competitiveness, which can affect a construction business and sustain its future growth opportunities. A survey was conducted in Hong Kong to test the relationships between contractors’ network performance and successful business competitiveness based on the project networks they build. A network strategy was developed by examining the relationships between the network techniques and the network outcomes. The network techniques support contractors’ network, whereas the network outcomes contribute to competitiveness attributes. The findings demonstrate that the key network techniques of supporting information exchange and organizing project communication are highly significant predictors of the business competitiveness attributes (BCA). The network technique of creating learning capacity is positively associated with contractors’ bidding performance and competitive strategies. Interestingly, the techniques of sharing knowledge and promoting networking culture insignificantly contribute to a number of the BCA. The developed network strategy reveals that the key network techniques significantly support contractors’ network performance and that the consequent network outcomes give rise to the BCA, which in turn stimulate contractors’ business competitiveness. Several practical suggestions are offered for contractors to improve their business competitiveness through interfirm cooperation between project network members.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 482-497
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1329539
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1329539
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:482-497
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kerry London
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: London
Author-Name: Zelinna Pablo
Author-X-Name-First: Zelinna
Author-X-Name-Last: Pablo
Title: An actor–network theory approach to developing an expanded conceptualization of collaboration in industrialized building housing construction
Abstract:
Our aim is to examine the value of selected actor–network theory (ANT) elements in contributing to the development of an expanded theoretical and empirical conceptualization of collaboration in industrialized building construction for the housing sector. A review of collaboration meta-analyses literature from different disciplines suggests that collaboration is still commonly portrayed in a limited way as a strategy of integration driven in a top-down manner by a “convenor” of human stakeholders in ways that privilege simplified notions of coherence. We use specific ANT concepts empirically grounded in five case studies of innovative housing construction projects to describe an expanded conceptualization of the infrastructure of actor-networks. We examined a range of issues with respect to collaboration in industrialized building particularly in relation to network formation and disintegration. As the collaboration networks formed they sought coherence but not conformity and aimed for the management of tensions between integration and separation as well as stabilization and destabilization. This expanded conceptualization of collaboration describes the material-semiotic characteristics arranged around industrialized building technologies that are simultaneously stabilizing yet disruptive and proposes new ways by which the ideal of integration can be pursued in a fundamentally fragmented industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 553-577
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1339361
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1339361
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:553-577
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Pryke
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Pryke
Author-Name: Sulafa Badi
Author-X-Name-First: Sulafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Badi
Author-Name: Lena Bygballe
Author-X-Name-First: Lena
Author-X-Name-Last: Bygballe
Title: Editorial for the special issue on social networks in construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 445-454
Issue: 8-9
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1341052
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1341052
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:8-9:p:445-454
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christopher Nigel Preece
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher Nigel
Author-X-Name-Last: Preece
Author-Name: Che Maznah Mat Isa
Author-X-Name-First: Che Maznah
Author-X-Name-Last: Mat Isa
Author-Name: Hamidah Mohd Saman
Author-X-Name-First: Hamidah Mohd
Author-X-Name-Last: Saman
Author-Name: Che Khairil Che Ibrahim
Author-X-Name-First: Che Khairil
Author-X-Name-Last: Che Ibrahim
Title: Development of entry location, entry timing and entry mode decision model for construction firms in international markets
Abstract:
The international market expansion process involves a combination of many strategic entry decisions. Most previous studies have dealt with entry location, entry timing and entry mode (ELETEM) decisions in an isolated way by considering one dimension or a combination of dimensions in particular. Although there have been various models relating to international market entry decisions, there is currently no model that attempts to integrate the factors linking the ELETEM decisions for construction firms. The purpose is to determine a linkage between the ELETEM decisions by incorporating the factors that are mutually inclusive and have significant influence on these decisions. Forty-five (45) Malaysian contractors undertaking projects in international markets responded to the survey. The findings suggested that the mutually inclusive and significant factors (MISFs) influencing the ELETEM decisions were: the firm’s ability to assess market signals and opportunities, the firm’s resources and the firm’s experience in similar works. It was observed that the firms had adopted long-term strategies, repositioned their knowledge from research and development activities and readapted their resources and experience in their global operations. The findings led to the development of the ELETEM decision model to guide interested firms in making better decisions for their future international ventures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 236-257
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1084429
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1084429
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:236-257
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kevin M. Swarts
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Swarts
Author-Name: Kim Lehman
Author-X-Name-First: Kim
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehman
Author-Name: Gemma K. Lewis
Author-X-Name-First: Gemma K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lewis
Title: The use of social customer relationship management by building contractors: evidence from Tasmania
Abstract:
Despite its ever-increasing popularity with consumers and businesses, many organizations are still unsure how to effectively use social media in a marketing context. One way in which building firms can use social media is as a customer relationship management (CRM) tool to improve customer engagement and satisfaction (known as social CRM). In order to explore how social CRM (SCRM) can be used, and is being used by building firms, semi-structured interviews with accredited building practitioners were utilized to collect data on SCRM use in the sector. The data were analysed to determine the factors that influence social media use, the extent of SCRM use, and the ways in which building contractors are using SCRM. It was found that builders are using social media to manage client relationships, but to a limited extent due to the complex nature of the builder–client relationship and a lack of perceived trustworthiness. Building firms favoured a transactional approach to social media use, and preferred not to use formal social media strategies. Builders are also reluctant to use social media to assist them in segmenting customers by their value to the firm. For effective social media use, builders may consider two main issues: SCRM strategy and customer-value segmentation to develop profitable customer relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 302-316
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2015.1133919
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2015.1133919
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:302-316
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Magnus Hellström
Author-X-Name-First: Magnus
Author-X-Name-Last: Hellström
Author-Name: Robin Wikström
Author-X-Name-First: Robin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wikström
Author-Name: Magnus Gustafsson
Author-X-Name-First: Magnus
Author-X-Name-Last: Gustafsson
Author-Name: Hanna Luotola
Author-X-Name-First: Hanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Luotola
Title: The value of project execution services: a problem and uncertainty perspective
Abstract:
Like services in general project execution services ought to be marketed and sold based on the value they add rather than the cost they accrue. Project services are typically complex and abstract, and hence their benefits are difficult to directly explicate. The aim is to investigate how contractors and suppliers can overcome this dilemma and exercise value-based selling in terms of the typical services they provide. A design science inspired study was used to create a service configurator addressing the dilemma. At the same time the configurator provided a means for studying the value identification and communication process in six sales projects. It is concluded that contractors and suppliers ought to approach customer value by looking for problems that create uncertainty in the underlying investment and to match them with suitable services. Key in communicating the value of the services is to focus on creating certainty as to the parties’ ability to cope with the uncertainty in the investment with the help of these services.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 272-285
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1151062
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1151062
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:272-285
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Niamh Murtagh
Author-X-Name-First: Niamh
Author-X-Name-Last: Murtagh
Author-Name: Aeli Roberts
Author-X-Name-First: Aeli
Author-X-Name-Last: Roberts
Author-Name: Richard Hind
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Hind
Title: The role of environmental sustainability in marketing of small architectural design practices
Abstract:
Environmental sustainability in construction is a pressing concern. Despite their importance to the industry, and evident differences from large organizations in business strategy, markets and challenges, the literature has little to say about how small architectural design firms view the marketing potential of improved environmental sustainability. The aim is to address this gap by examining practitioner experience of sustainability and marketing in small architectural design practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 such practices. A critical interpretive stance was adopted in analysis, drawing on the theoretical framings of service-dominant logic (SDL) and relationship marketing. Sustainable design is part of the co-creation of value in architecture, enhancing the value proposition beyond a cost basis. Its inclusion contributed to business development through referrals. Taken together, co-creation of value and asymmetry of knowledge between professional and client drive the conclusion that the architectural designer has primary responsibility in guiding clients towards greater environmental sustainability. This responsibility and the role of sustainability in business development were not necessarily recognized by the designers. Insights from SDL challenge assumptions that cost and lack of client demand prevent greater sustainability in design.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 258-271
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1151063
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1151063
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:258-271
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Grant R.W. Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Grant R.W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Author-Name: Kamran Razmdoost
Author-X-Name-First: Kamran
Author-X-Name-Last: Razmdoost
Title: Managing value co-creation/destruction: a longitudinal education capital programme/project case study
Abstract:
Drawing on a longitudinal empirical study of an education capital programme/project, value interactions are investigated at the interface between programme customers, project stakeholders and construction providers. Empirical evidence is provided that value formation is not only associated with value co-creation, but also with value co-destruction. The case study showed that a mature and synergistic network relationship (that successfully aligned the expectations of a strong key account management team (KAM team), multi-headed customer and wider project stakeholders) could, if not well managed, turn into incongruent relationships, relationship uncoupling and resource withdrawal. These findings suggest that project managers must drive strong KAM team relationships, so that they can align and adapt to customer requirements, and control the response to often changing wider stakeholder expectations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 286-301
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1187284
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1187284
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:286-301
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Florence Yean Yng Ling
Author-X-Name-First: Florence Yean Yng
Author-X-Name-Last: Ling
Author-Name: Shan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Shan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Business models for foreign firms offering construction-related consultancy services in China
Abstract:
Many foreign firms are expected to enter China’s growing construction market. The objectives are to: (i) identify the extent to which Porter’s generic business strategies and practices are adopted by local Chinese architectural, engineering and construction firms (Chinese firms) and foreign firms offering construction-related consultancy services in China (foreign firms); (ii) investigate the extent to which Porter’s generic strategies contribute to firms’ competitiveness in China; and (iii) propose a business model framework for construction services in China. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected via mail and face-to-face interviews. In total, 37 and 45 completed questionnaires were received from foreign and Chinese firms, respectively. Both foreign and Chinese firms adopt Porter’s differentiation and focus strategies to a significant extent. Foreign firms emphasize value offerings that incorporate superior design, technology and quality significantly more than Chinese firms. The findings show that Porter’s cost leadership and differentiation strategies are significantly correlated with firms’ competitiveness, especially the practices relating to cutting suppliers’ prices, reconfiguring the value chain, providing innovative services and offering comprehensive services. To help them succeed in China, it is recommended that foreign firms develop their business models based on the framework developed here.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 218-235
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1189585
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1189585
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:218-235
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Wilco Tijhuis
Author-X-Name-First: Wilco
Author-X-Name-Last: Tijhuis
Title: Editorial for the Special Issue on Business Development and Marketing in Construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 205-217
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1199370
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1199370
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:205-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kamran Razmdoost
Author-X-Name-First: Kamran
Author-X-Name-Last: Razmdoost
Author-Name: Grant Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Grant
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: Towards a service-led relationship in project-based firms
Abstract:
Project-based firms increasingly apply practices that are in line with relationship marketing (RM), which is a shift from individuality to mutuality, and service-dominant logic (SDL), which is a shift from a focus on goods exchange to an emphasis on service exchange. These firms also adopt value co-creation processes, benefiting from both RM and SDL views. However, their overall transition towards RM, SDL and/or both is not clearly understood. Therefore, the research aim is to explain how and why project-based firms have moved away from transitional marketing. A retrospective action research between 2002 and 2009 provides process data on how a single main contractor adapted their marketing approach over five publicly funded projects within the oil, gas and petrochemical industries. The findings show that the uniqueness and dynamics of projects necessitate the adoption of both SDL and RM, a view that is entitled the service-led relationship here. This transition occurs through services expansion, multi-level distributed interactions and process-oriented performance management in projects. The firm enabled the transition through the evolution of both institutional mechanisms such as contracts and organizational structure, and people attributes such as capabilities and culture.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 317-334
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200106
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200106
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:317-334
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: F.K.T. Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: F.K.T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: E. Kurul
Author-X-Name-First: E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Kurul
Author-Name: A.H. Oti
Author-X-Name-First: A.H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Oti
Title: A case study of hybrid strategies to create value for a contracting business in the education sector in England and Wales
Abstract:
Successful hybrid strategies adopt service marketing principles although the adoption of those principles by construction marketers is not apparent. Through an interpretive inquiry approach attempting to capture multiple views in a case of successful strategic programmes for the primary school market, various value co-creation elements of the programmes are assessed according to four axioms of service-dominant (S-D) logic. The strategic programmes were found to create value by (1) developing new skills and knowledge, building relationships to leverage skills and close the knowledge gaps; (2) enhancing interactions through customer engagement, dialogue creation and enrichment, the use of BIM technologies and social networks; (3) strengthening many-to-many relationships through supply chain integration; and (4) assisting individual customers to define their value propositions and to evaluate them through free self-service systems, and products and services inquiries. Further research is needed to assess how customers value the various co-creation elements identified in the paperevidence for applying the generic value co-creation principles to marketing in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 335-352
Issue: 4-5
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200107
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200107
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:4-5:p:335-352
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Siobhan Morrison
Author-X-Name-First: Siobhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Morrison
Author-Name: Ian Trushell
Author-X-Name-First: Ian
Author-X-Name-Last: Trushell
Title: Payment for offsite goods and materials: the Scottish perspective
Abstract:
Materials are a critical element within the construction industry yet- the conditions and legality surrounding their ownership remains an area of uncertainty. The difficulty in ascertaining ownership is often found in the instances of payment, delivery and complex contractual relationships. Additionally, the nature of the construction industry whereby raw materials are purchased within a supply chain and are incorporated into the fabric of buildings or goods often creates further confusion. The importance of ownership is most apparent in the instance of disputes or insolvencies, both of which are regular occurrences within the construction industry and in the management of a project regarding cash flow and programme. To inform the position and stance of Scots Law in relation to ownership of materials it is necessary to evaluate current law regarding ownership of materials in Scotland through the undertaking of a literature review which establishes the prevailing legal structure. Conclusions and recommendations propose that parties of a construction contract, for which Scots Law is applicable, are aware of current law surrounding the intricate matter regarding ownership of materials in Scots Law
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 679-687
Issue: 10
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200738
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200738
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:10:p:679-687
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Liisa Naar
Author-X-Name-First: Liisa
Author-X-Name-Last: Naar
Author-Name: Natalia Nikolova
Author-X-Name-First: Natalia
Author-X-Name-Last: Nikolova
Author-Name: Perry Forsythe
Author-X-Name-First: Perry
Author-X-Name-Last: Forsythe
Title: Innovative construction and the role of boundary objects: a Gehry case study
Abstract:
Physical objects have long been used in addressing the challenges involved in constructing innovative buildings, yet their significance for collaborative problem solving in inter-organizational projects is rarely acknowledged. The aim of this research is to investigate what happens when a project team has to collaboratively innovate to address radical design challenges in a construction setting. We focus on the role of a full-scale mock-up of a façade in transforming the design intent for a building by Frank Gehry into design realization. The concept of boundary objects is used as an analytical lens via a case study methodology utilizing non-participant observation of weekly meetings and workshops over a period of 10 months covering client, consultant and contractor involvement. The research shows the role of mock-ups in radical construction settings is in tension along three delivery dimensions: performance, aesthetic and technical construction. Task completion competed with the requirements for experimentation around innovative problem solving with the how to construct it problem left unresolved. The findings suggest that co-location and synchronicity are critical conditions for collaborative and innovative problem solving in radical construction contexts. Project teams need to create open-ended ‘moments’ for iterating critical objects and the interactions that take place around them.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 688-699
Issue: 10
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1201206
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1201206
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:10:p:688-699
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Stress among South African construction professionals: a job demand-control-support survey
Abstract:
Research into workplace stress in the construction industry has been dominated by studies undertaken in Hong Kong, England and Australia, with relatively little attention having been paid to African countries. A purposively selected sample of thirty-six construction professionals (comprising architects, project managers, construction managers, engineers and quantity surveyors) based in Cape Town, South Africa, were surveyed regarding their perceptions about, and experiences of, workplace stress. The purpose was to identify and rank job demand, job control and job support factors and to analyse these by gender and professional grouping, both in terms of how respondents perceived them, as well as in terms of how frequently they had experienced them. The main finding was that respondents’ perceptions about the importance of job demand, job control and job support factors were largely consistent with their own experience of these factors. Distinguishing between perceptions and experience of stressors and moderators of stress was, however, considered valuable because the fact that differences were found indicates the need for precision in the design of scales. The highest ranked factors were, respectively, ‘critical time constraints’, ‘volume of work’ and ‘adequate compensation (salary)’. Women and men ranked items differently, as did the various professional groups. The main conclusions were that the construction project environment is a time-pressured, complex, environment in which work-life balance is negatively affected, particularly for women. Control over the type, flow and volume of work were perceived to be the main moderators of stress, whilst salary and career path opportunities were perceived to be the main job support moderators of stress. The applicability of using the job demand–control–support framework was confirmed given that the main stressors, control and support moderators were found to be to be largely consistent with the findings of previous studies. Future research taking a gendered approach should anticipate issues important to female respondents and should consider the benefits of qualitative methods. The design of research focusing on construction professionals should consider using the project team as the unit of analysis to ensure that the influence of the interconnectedness of participants’ roles is taken into account.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 700-723
Issue: 10
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1203967
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1203967
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:10:p:700-723
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed Abdelaty
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdelaty
Author-Name: Hyungseok David Jeong
Author-X-Name-First: Hyungseok David
Author-X-Name-Last: Jeong
Author-Name: Bryan Dannen
Author-X-Name-First: Bryan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dannen
Author-Name: Francis Todey
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Todey
Title: Enhancing life cycle cost analysis with a novel cost classification framework for pavement rehabilitation projects
Abstract:
Life cycle cost analysis (LCCA) procedures have been used over the past decades to justify the choice of one pavement design alternative over the others. However, many ambiguities associated with the life cycle cost input values, such as the discount rate and future cost estimates have questioned the credibility of the analysis results. Another unrecognized source of errors in pavement LCCA is the misunderstanding of pavement treatment costs when historical costs are typically used for estimating those costs. The historical costs of pavement rehabilitation projects typically include a significant amount of non-pavement-related costs, which may result in a wrong LCCA if not treated appropriately. This paper addresses this specific point of error and proposes a solution to eliminating this error by using a novel cost classification framework that successfully differentiates mainline roadway costs from non-pavement cost items. A case study using Monte Carlo simulation is conducted to evaluate the probabilistic LCCA results. The results of the case study indicate that the conventional approach of using total rehabilitation project costs in LCCA may even lead to a wrong investment decision. The findings of this study will help practitioners and researchers better understand the nature of pavement rehabilitation project cost distributions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 724-736
Issue: 10
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1205206
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1205206
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:10:p:724-736
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 677-678
Issue: 10
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1208352
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1208352
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:10:p:677-678
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Benjamin Lasshof
Author-X-Name-First: Benjamin
Author-X-Name-Last: Lasshof
Author-Name: Christian Stoy
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Stoy
Title: Estimation models for heating energy and electricity costs
Abstract:
Heating energy and electricity represent a significant proportion of the overall financial expenditures over the life cycle of buildings and play a decisive role in the assessment of ecological quality. To ensure ecological and economical sustainability, the planning and construction of energy efficient buildings have become increasingly important. The present study introduces statistical models for the estimation of energy costs during the planning process as well as for the purpose of monitoring and controlling costs during operation including a wide range of facility types. Based on a data sample of 206 occupied facilities located in Germany, regression models are presented in detail including significant predictor variables. The provision of correctly specified models as well as a consistent and unbiased estimation beyond the employed data is verified by validation tests. The practical significance of the determined variables is presented by the calculation of various scenarios. The best estimation accuracy is indicated for regression models with transformed response and predictor variables achieving mean absolute percentage errors of 20.5% (heating energy) and 20.7% (electricity), respectively. An extension of the data sample, a consideration of further facility types, and an implementation of additional statistical methods may be considered by future approaches to improve the estimation accuracy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 622-640
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1190025
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1190025
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:622-640
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Keith Townsend
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Townsend
Author-Name: Rebecca Loudoun
Author-X-Name-First: Rebecca
Author-X-Name-Last: Loudoun
Author-Name: Katherine Markwell
Author-X-Name-First: Katherine
Author-X-Name-Last: Markwell
Title: The role of line managers in creating and maintaining healthy work environments on project construction sites
Abstract:
The focus of this article is healthy work environments in project-based construction work, and particularly a sub-element of the work environment, the food environment. Although it is well accepted that stressful work environments negatively impact on organisational and individual health indices and project construction produces some of the most severe work environments in the modern industrial landscape, the role of line managers in creating these environments is largely unknown. Healthy work environments are explored in this article because they contribute to the development of many ‘behavioral’ diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, both of which are known problems amongst construction workers. Qualitative data were collected from eighty project-based construction workers and mangers on six large civil engineering construction projects in Brisbane, Australia. Unanimous views were expressed by all interviewees that managers should not and do not influence food choices on-site. However, results also revealed clear examples of managers making decisions about food environments, work and time pressures and permitted and discouraged behaviours on-site that impact on food choices. These findings indicate limited awareness of healthy work environments in construction with the impact of management actions being largely unrecognised and unintended. It suggests with more informed management decision-making, eating habits in construction are likely to improve.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-621
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1195911
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1195911
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:611-621
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fiona C. Saunders
Author-X-Name-First: Fiona C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Saunders
Author-Name: Andrew H. Sherry
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherry
Author-Name: Andrew W. Gale
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gale
Title: Dualities and dilemmas: contending with uncertainty in large-scale safety-critical projects
Abstract:
Uncertainty is a fact of project life. Most decisions that are made on a safety-critical project involve uncertainty, the consequences of which may be highly significant to the safe and timely delivery of the project. Based on interviews with project management practitioners on nine large-scale civil nuclear and aerospace projects, we explore how uncertainty emerges, and how project management practitioners identify, analyse and act on it. We make three important contributions. First, we present three approaches – structural, behavioural and relational – that individuals and organizations can adopt when contending with project uncertainty. Secondly, we characterize nine dualities at play in the management of project uncertainty and thirdly, we identify key differences between how civil nuclear and aerospace project managers confront project uncertainty, which have important implications for how projects might be organized in both these industry sectors. Drawing attention to the structural, behavioural and relational approaches to project uncertainty and the tensions that manifest themselves in each approach should enable the project management community to make progress in environments of high uncertainty where situations are often complex, rapidly changing and confusing, and yet where, for reasons of safety, failure is not an option.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 657-675
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1196824
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1196824
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:657-675
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Title: What constitutes good production flow in construction?
Abstract:
The notion of production flow is not well understood in the context of construction. A coherent, consistent theoretical model of flow would have practical value as it would support development of better approaches to managing production within and across projects and of measures of flow quality needed to implement them. A literature review and analysis of existing conceptualizations of flow in manufacturing and in construction lead to formulation of a model of construction flow that has three interrelated but distinct axes: project portfolio, process and operations flows. A tentative set of ideal conditions for good flow was formulated with regard to each of these three primary flows. The review, the summary model and the set of conditions provide a basis for further research and development of a comprehensive model of flow in construction and a definition of what constitutes good flow.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 641-656
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200733
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200733
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:641-656
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Statement of Retraction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 676-676
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1202485
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1202485
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:676-676
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 609-610
Issue: 9
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1204802
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1204802
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:9:p:609-610
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carlos Andrés Zapata Quimbayo
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Andrés
Author-X-Name-Last: Zapata Quimbayo
Author-Name: Carlos Armando Mejía Vega
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Armando
Author-X-Name-Last: Mejía Vega
Author-Name: Naielly Lopes Marques
Author-X-Name-First: Naielly Lopes
Author-X-Name-Last: Marques
Title: Minimum revenue guarantees valuation in PPP projects under a mean reverting process
Abstract:
Minimum revenue guarantees, where the government assumes a portion of the traffic risk to guarantee a minimum level of revenue and profitability to the investors, is a standard risk mitigation mechanism for Public-Private Partnership contracts. Typically, valuation models for these guarantees assume that traffic volume follows a geometric Brownian motion under the Real Options Approach. However, this is often done without testing whether this assumption is reasonable or not. In this article, statistical tests are applied to check the validity of this assumption and show how toll road traffic can be modelled under alternate models, such as Mean Reverting processes, if the geometric Brownian motion assumption is rejected. In that sense, this approach is applied to the case of a toll road concession in Colombia where a Mean Reverting process is used to model the traffic. Finally, it is showed that this model is a valid tool for defining the fair value of the minimum amount of revenue secured by the government.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 121-138
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1500024
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1500024
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:121-138
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abolfazl Farahani
Author-X-Name-First: Abolfazl
Author-X-Name-Last: Farahani
Author-Name: Holger Wallbaum
Author-X-Name-First: Holger
Author-X-Name-Last: Wallbaum
Author-Name: Jan-Olof Dalenbäck
Author-X-Name-First: Jan-Olof
Author-X-Name-Last: Dalenbäck
Title: Optimized maintenance and renovation scheduling in multifamily buildings – a systematic approach based on condition state and life cycle cost of building components
Abstract:
Proactive maintenance strategies in principle are devised to control degradation and sustain optimal performance of building components. While realizing the technical necessities, they also serve as an instrument towards multiple and often conflicting objectives during financial constraints. An optimal proactive maintenance strategy therefore should comprise a multiannual maintenance action plan optimized on different criteria corresponding to owners’ objectives under existing constraints. This study offers a systematic approach based on a condition-deterioration model to address the complexity involved in decision making regarding optimized maintenance and renovation planning. Life-cycle cost analysis in form of Equivalent Annual Cost (EAC) is used for the economic assessment of maintenance/renovation scenarios. In this paper, the model is used to compare the economy of different maintenance/renovation plans in a chosen scenario in order to determine the optimal maintenance interval for a single and a combination of building components. Two façade elements, windows and façade rendering, are used to illustrate the application of the proposed method. This method is intended to help decision makers at both design and post-construction phases in the choice of both building components and maintenance/renovation strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 139-155
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1512750
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1512750
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:139-155
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mike Rafferty
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Rafferty
Author-Name: Phillip Toner
Author-X-Name-First: Phillip
Author-X-Name-Last: Toner
Title: Thinking like Capital markets – Financialisation of the Australian Construction Industry
Abstract:
The concept of financialisation has not yet become a major subject in mainstream construction economics research. This is surprising since construction risk, risk management and project financing have long been important issues for researchers and practitioners. This paper introduces the concept of financialisation, outlines its causes in the construction industry and identifies some effects. An important dimension of financialisation in the construction industry can be seen in the growing conversion of illiquid built assets into liquid financial instruments that have become a distinct global asset class. These liquid construction assets have become important to current risk management and profit strategies of developers, major construction firms and capital market investors. Five key drivers of financialisation in the construction industry are identified. The article finds that a principal effect of financialisation in construction is to intensify competition for access to global capital, which in turn reinforces long-established tendencies for risk shifting in the contractual chain. The Australian construction industry has been an early adopter of the key drivers of financialisation and is used in this article as a case study. In developing the case study analysis the article also draws on observations by major Australian construction industry associations and financial institutions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 156-168
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1513163
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1513163
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:156-168
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Title: Close entanglements: aligning the construction and finance industries
Abstract:
The construction industry has two major institutional supporters in (1) the sovereign state, whose political entities render affordable housing and the supply of credit a core component in modern statecraft, and (2) the finance industry, which rely on the construction industry for high-quality collateral in forms of real estate, and which also expand the stock of credit in the economy. In this finance capital creation role, the finance industry makes many construction industry projects realizable and attractive investment objects. Construction management scholarship has neither ignored nor understated governance issues, but closer attention should be given to the intimate relationships and co-dependencies across formal industry boundaries. The article stresses how the expansion of the securities industry has been a key mechanism for integrating construction and finance industries more closely, offering various joint benefits that materialize as both desirable and more cumbersome and unanticipated economic consequences. The article argues, however, that while securitization increased the stock of finance capital and the liquidity, the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 indicated that this new integration of construction finance and the state resulted in an unstable and risky nexus. That nexus has since been consolidated, but the open question is whether it has been stabilized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 169-178
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1517941
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1517941
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:169-178
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Author Index for Volume 36 (2018)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 182-182
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1576401
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1576401
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:182-182
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: List of Reviewers for Volume 36 (2018)
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 179-181
Issue: 3
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1585096
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1585096
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:3:p:179-181
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henrik Szentes
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Szentes
Title: Reinforcing cycles involving inter- and intraorganizational paradoxical tensions when managing large construction projects
Abstract:
In recent years, scholars have shown a growing interest in combining control and flexibility when organizing and managing large construction projects, in contrast with the traditional focus on control. Prior research recognizes that there is a paradoxical tension between control and flexibility, meaning that, while both approaches make sense individually, they appear impossible to combine. Large construction projects are interorganizational, which means that tensions between interorganizational control/flexibility coexist with tensions between intraorganizational direction/empowerment, but the interplay and possible reinforcing cycles involving the two tensions have rarely been investigated in prior research. A multiple case study of four large construction projects with three rounds of interviews show how intraorganizational direction/empowerment can influence interorganizational control/flexibility and vice versa, and demonstrate both vicious and virtuous reinforcing cycles that involve the two types of tensions. Therefore, contributing to the project management and construction management literature, it is argued that employing a systemic approach when studying interorganizational projects is essential. A systemic paradox perspective can reveal interdependencies between tensions at different organizational interfaces, improve the understanding of how individuals in all managerial positions interplay, and explain how reinforcing cycles emerge and develop; this is important to recognize when organizing, staffing and managing large construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 125-140
Issue: 3
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1315826
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1315826
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:3:p:125-140
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Title: Shaping the discourse of worker health in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
The UK construction industry is in poor health, statistics show rates of occupational illness significantly higher than for workers in any other industry. Recently, the scope of occupational health management on large sites has increased as public health has become included within the organizational remit. Concerns have been raised around the consequences of this development, its close relationships to Corporate Social Responsibility, and how this is now shaping the wider discourse. To explore this phenomenon, a critical discourse analysis of UK “construction worker health” has been carried out, using the public-facing data of ten large UK contractors. Findings show that “public” has now overtaken “occupational”, the latter restricted to legal compliance presented as corporate citizenship, the former championed as evidence of benevolent organizational values. Yet public health concerns are limited to those of lifestyle and individual responsibility, whilst more complex issues around the social determinants of health as associated with work are missing from the discourse, separating organizations from the impacts of their work on their workers. A contemporary mapping of “construction worker health” is developed for consideration by industry and academics to support future health initiatives and research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 141-152
Issue: 3
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1337916
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1337916
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:3:p:141-152
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Rajen Govender
Author-X-Name-First: Rajen
Author-X-Name-Last: Govender
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Author-Name: Keith Cattell
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Cattell
Title: Work-related contact, work–family conflict, psychological distress and sleep problems experienced by construction professionals: an integrated explanatory model
Abstract:
Contemporary communication technology blurs the boundaries between work–life and family–life environments, through after-hours, work-related contact. We examined the relationship between work contact, work–family conflict and consequent outcomes of psychological distress and sleep problems experienced by South African construction professionals. An integrated model of these factors was proposed and tested using path analysis and responses from 630 survey respondents. Work experience, gender, domestic situation and employment status explain the relationship between job autonomy and control, job pressures, and work contact, which were hypothesized to multivariately explain their negative effects. The final integrated model was a good fit to the data. The results indicate that the antecedents of work–family conflict are job autonomy and control, job pressure and work contact. Psychological distress is determined by work–family conflict, work experience, and job pressure. Sleep problems are influenced by work–family conflict, work contact and psychological distress. An important insight gained is the pivotal role played by job pressure, directly and indirectly, in work stress outcomes. Interventions aimed at reducing psychological distress and sleep problems among construction professionals should target the boundary permeability of work contact and work–family conflict, particularly for less experienced, female and junior professionals with low job control but high job pressure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 153-174
Issue: 3
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1341638
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1341638
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:3:p:153-174
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan Bröchner
Author-X-Name-First: Jan
Author-X-Name-Last: Bröchner
Title: Construction economics and economics journals
Abstract:
It has been asked whether construction economics has achieved the position of an academic (sub-)discipline. The main question addressed here is if there are signs of a widening gap between construction economics and mainstream economics. Full text searches in three top economics journals and in Construction Management and Economics have been performed, as well as an analysis of how a broader range of economics journals have combined the construction industry topic with other topics. Results include that authors in the three top economics journals never cite articles in Construction Management and Economics, although citations in the opposite direction are frequent. Economics journals in general are found to combine the Journal of Economic Literature L74 code (Construction) mostly with codes from financial economics, macroeconomics and economic development. For 2013–2016, the strongest new combinations with construction are with Firm Behaviour – Empirical Analysis, Accounting and Climate – Natural Disasters and their Management. Finally, the importance for construction economists of access to big data is emphasized.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 175-180
Issue: 3
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1410197
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1410197
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:3:p:175-180
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Henrik C. J. Linderoth
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik C. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Linderoth
Title: From visions to practice – The role of sensemaking, institutional logic and pragmatic practice
Abstract:
The emergence of a new technology like BIM is often connected with extensive discussions of industrial and organizational development and change. However, predicting the use trajectory of a technology has always been a difficult task. In understanding the adoption and use of information and communication technology (ICT), the way that people make sense of a technology is an important component. Even if sensemaking varies over time, studies of sensemaking processes over longer periods are rare. This paper has two aims. First, to develop a conceptual framework of how the development of sensemaking processes shapes the adoption and use of ICT. Second, to discuss the implications of this for research and practice, with a specific focus on the adoption and use of BIM. The research involves a case study of 12 years of telemedicine use in a Swedish county. These results are compared with contemporary BIM studies. The overall conclusion is that the use of technology is heavily shaped by the sensemaking of significant actor groups. This is grounded both an institutional logic and daily practice in relation to the benefits or disadvantages the group perceives from the use of the technology.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 324-337
Issue: 6
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1250930
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1250930
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:6:p:324-337
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hossein Karimi
Author-X-Name-First: Hossein
Author-X-Name-Last: Karimi
Author-Name: Timothy R. B. Taylor
Author-X-Name-First: Timothy R. B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Taylor
Author-Name: Paul M. Goodrum
Author-X-Name-First: Paul M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Goodrum
Title: Analysis of the impact of craft labour availability on North American construction project productivity and schedule performance
Abstract:
The North American construction industry has experienced periods of craft shortages for decades. While this problem has received significant attention from researchers, less attention has been given to quantifying the impact of availability of craft labour on project performance. The primary contribution of the current work to the body of knowledge is the quantification of the relationship between craft labour availability and project performance, as measured by project productivity and schedule. Data from 97 construction projects completed in the U.S. and Canada between 2001 and 2014 were collected from two industry databases. The primary analysis shows that projects that experienced craft shortages underwent substantial and statistically lower productivity compared to projects that did not. The analysis also shows a significant growth in schedule overrun due to the craft labour shortages among the same population of projects. Further exploration by means of several regression analyses shows a statistically significant correlation between increased craft recruiting difficulty and lower project productivity and also higher schedule overruns in both project databases. The results are confirmed across both databases and serve as informative models that provide valuable insight for project management teams to perceive the risk that lack of skills poses on project productivity and time performance. Understanding the level of impact that craft shortages are having through robust statistical analyses is a first step in developing the motivation for industry leaders, communities and construction stakeholders to address this challenge.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 368-380
Issue: 6
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1294257
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1294257
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:6:p:368-380
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrea Yunyan Jia
Author-X-Name-First: Andrea Yunyan
Author-X-Name-Last: Jia
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Mengnan Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Mengnan
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Author-Name: Baizhan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Baizhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Alistair Gibb
Author-X-Name-First: Alistair
Author-X-Name-Last: Gibb
Title: Institutions and institutional logics in construction safety management: the case of climatic heat stress
Abstract:
We employed a Glaserian grounded theory approach to explore the gap between behavioural safety and its unsatisfactory outcomes. Data were collected through ethnographic studies on the practice of managing heat stress on thirty-six construction sites in Hong Kong and Chonqing in mainland China. Two core concepts, institutions and institutional logics, are generated and defined to explain why safety rules do not necessarily produce safety behaviours. At society level, we explicated two pairs of institutional logics: the religion logics (Confucianism vs. pragmatism) and the market logics (rational market vs. individualism). At project organizational level, two logics of processing safety in production are explicated: a protection logic in the Chongqing context and a production logic in the Hong Kong context. The concepts and sub-concepts are compared to existing business literature for clarification of scopes. Empirical findings of the study suggest safety intervention needs to redirect its focus from promoting safety alone to addressing the institutional logics of the entire organization and its societal context practised by multiple levels of actors. We conclude that safety research would benefit from redirecting its focus of analysis from discourses, interviews or surveys to authenticated cases reconstructed through triangulation of actors’ discourses at multiple levels of an organization, third-party observation, physiological data and objective measurement of the work environment. Methodologically, this paper provides a detailed guidance for conducting grounded theory research with a focus of conceptualization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 338-367
Issue: 6
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1296171
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1296171
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:6:p:338-367
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Grane Mikael Gregaard Rasmussen
Author-X-Name-First: Grane Mikael Gregaard
Author-X-Name-Last: Rasmussen
Author-Name: Per Langaa Jensen
Author-X-Name-First: Per Langaa
Author-X-Name-Last: Jensen
Author-Name: Stefan Christoffer Gottlieb
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan Christoffer
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottlieb
Title: Frames, agency and institutional change: the case of benchmarking in Danish construction
Abstract:
This study examines change and the sources influencing the formulation and diffusion of policies in construction. The change examined is the introduction of a benchmarking policy initiative in the Danish construction industry. Using institutional theory with emphasis on the concepts of frames and framings, we show how strategically motivated actors are able to frame policy problems in ways that disclose the mixture of motives, interests and institutional mechanisms at play in change processes. In doing so, we contribute to the literature on the role of agency in institutional change and the framing of policy problems. We conclude by highlighting how insights gained from the framing perspective present a challenge to the dominant comprehensive rationalist view of the policy process and the formulation and implementation of reform initiatives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-323
Issue: 6
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1298824
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1298824
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:6:p:305-323
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Corrigendum
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 381-381
Issue: 6
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1319650
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1319650
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:6:p:381-381
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Erik Poirier
Author-X-Name-First: Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Poirier
Author-Name: Daniel Forgues
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Forgues
Author-Name: Sheryl Staub-French
Author-X-Name-First: Sheryl
Author-X-Name-Last: Staub-French
Title: Collaboration through innovation: implications for expertise in the AEC sector
Abstract:
Collaboration is key for successful delivery of building projects in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector. Innovative project delivery approaches developed over the past two decades envision new ways of collaborating and specifically aim at improving the performance of and value generated by this key economic sector. Collaboration, however, remains an ill-defined and highly amorphous concept. This makes it difficult to investigate and consequently develop a body of knowledge, which is central to defining a field of expertise in this area. The aim of this investigation is to explore the notion of an expertise in collaboration in the AEC sector and the implications of these innovative project delivery approaches on this expertise. The concept of collaboration is developed across five core entities: structure, process, agents, artefacts and context. These entities are then framed through a critical realist lens to lay the groundwork for a body of knowledge of collaboration in the AEC sector. The impact of the current shift to these innovative approaches is investigated within this framing. The findings set a course of action to develop a body of knowledge and a field of expertise on collaboration in the AEC sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 769-789
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1206660
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1206660
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:769-789
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Malena Ingemansson Havenvid
Author-X-Name-First: Malena Ingemansson
Author-X-Name-Last: Havenvid
Author-Name: Kajsa Hulthén
Author-X-Name-First: Kajsa
Author-X-Name-Last: Hulthén
Author-Name: Åse Linné
Author-X-Name-First: Åse
Author-X-Name-Last: Linné
Author-Name: Viktoria Sundquist
Author-X-Name-First: Viktoria
Author-X-Name-Last: Sundquist
Title: Renewal in construction projects: tracing effects of client requirements
Abstract:
Several studies identify clients as important drivers of innovation in the construction industry. How clients contribute to innovation is however less investigated. In two case studies of health care construction projects, we investigate how client requirements create renewal in the form of intra- as well as inter-project effects. Using an inter-organizational framework of actors, resources and activities (the ARA model), it is possible to identify a variation of effects. The paper concludes that both client requirements and their associated renewal effects are results of interaction in time as well as space. Renewal effects crossing individual projects are dependent on relationships among two or more actors that continue to interact in subsequent projects. In addition, these effects relate to several dimensions of interaction and include how actors relate in new ways, how resources are combined and how activities are organized. Thus, by adopting an interactive perspective, it is possible to reveal how construction clients can contribute to renewal such as innovation and learning, directly and indirectly, within and across projects. Finally, we suggest that managers need to consider the role of long-term business relationships in achieving increased renewal in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 790-807
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1208364
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1208364
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:790-807
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sui Pheng Low
Author-X-Name-First: Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Low
Author-Name: Shang Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Shang
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Mohammad Matin Mohdari
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad Matin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mohdari
Title: Marketing importance and marketing performance measurement of architecture firms in Singapore: an exploratory study
Abstract:
While marketing is a known element of successful practice, architects are yet to be convinced of its full potential. Little was known about the marketing practice in architectural firms in Singapore. Attempts were made to determine the realities of formalized marketing approaches and their importance to architectural firms in Singapore through a questionnaire survey (where 95 architectural firms participated) and follow-up interviews. A total of 34 usable responses were collected. This was investigated using the ‘Architecture Business Development Process’ as a framework, which found evidence to suggest that marketing has been recognized as an important component of architectural practice in Singapore. The results show that the adoption of the ‘marketing concept’ in the architecture profession is still in its formative stages. Architectural firms – and small and medium ones in particular – need to fully capitalize on this area of business knowledge in order to influence, command and understand the market for them to remain financially viable as a practice. Despite little attention being paid to measuring the performance of marketing outcomes, almost all the respondents and interviewees acknowledged its increasing importance. With greater corporate governance, these firms are beginning to realize the significance of marketing, and are evaluating their practices to ride the market for success. This move indicates a positive step in bridging the disparities between architecture practice and design.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-750
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1211719
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1211719
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:739-750
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ashwini Konanahalli
Author-X-Name-First: Ashwini
Author-X-Name-Last: Konanahalli
Author-Name: Lukumon O. Oyedele
Author-X-Name-First: Lukumon O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Oyedele
Title: Emotional intelligence and British expatriates’ cross-cultural adjustment in international construction projects
Abstract:
Today’s internationalized business demands global mindset, intercultural sensitivity and the ability to skilfully negotiate through cross-cultural interactions. Therefore, the overall aim was to investigate the influence of emotional intelligence (EI) on cross-cultural adjustment (CCA) of British expatriates working on International Architectural, Engineering and Construction assignments in Sub-Saharan Africa, China, Middle East and Indian Sub-Continent. Specifically, the causal relationship between EI and three facets of CCA i.e. work, general and interaction adjustment was explored. A sequential exploratory mixed methods design was adopted. These include extensive review of existing literature, eighteen unstructured interviews, and questionnaire survey of 191 British expatriates operating in 29 different countries from the four regions under investigation. Structural equation modelling was used to assess the causal relationship between EI and CCA. Results show that EI accounted for 91, 64 and 24% of the variance in work, interaction and general adjustment respectively. Overall, the model was able to explain 60% variance in CCA, suggesting that EI competencies play a huge role in facilitating an expatriate understand and adapt to host country culture. The findings would help decision-makers (HR managers) during expatriate selection process, in understanding that along with technical skills, it is the emotional competencies that are crucial in assisting expatriates adjust to foreign way of life.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 751-768
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1213399
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1213399
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:751-768
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hafiz A. Alaka
Author-X-Name-First: Hafiz A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Alaka
Author-Name: Lukumon O. Oyedele
Author-X-Name-First: Lukumon O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Oyedele
Author-Name: Hakeem A. Owolabi
Author-X-Name-First: Hakeem A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Owolabi
Author-Name: Saheed O. Ajayi
Author-X-Name-First: Saheed O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ajayi
Author-Name: Muhammad Bilal
Author-X-Name-First: Muhammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Bilal
Author-Name: Olugbenga O. Akinade
Author-X-Name-First: Olugbenga O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Akinade
Title: Methodological approach of construction business failure prediction studies: a review
Abstract:
Performance of bankruptcy prediction models (BPM), which partly depends on the methodological approach used to develop it, has virtually stagnated over the years. The methodological positions of BPM studies were thus investigated. Systematic review was used to search and retrieve 70 journal articles and doctoral theses. Their “general methods” and “philosophical underpinnings” were investigated using summary of findings tables and meta-analysis. “General methods” results showed positive trends in terms of techniques being used, error cost consideration and model validation, with some use of skewed data being the main drawback. For “philosophical underpinnings”, positivism paradigm was discovered to be at the core of BPM studies. This is deemed inadequate because of the need to consider industries’ dynamism, financial variables flaws and social factors which actually lead to the financial status of firms. The pragmatism paradigm using mixed method is proposed. A research design framework for executing the proposed methodology is presented. This will help BPM developers go through more rigorous and robust methodology to deliver better and more valid models. Limitations of study include not reviewing studies not reported in English language and impact of different countries’ accounting practices on ratios. Limited availability of theses’ database resulted in reviewing only four theses.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 808-842
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1219037
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1219037
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:808-842
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 737-738
Issue: 11
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1228177
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1228177
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:11:p:737-738
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Farook R. Hamzeh
Author-X-Name-First: Farook R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamzeh
Author-Name: Farah Faek
Author-X-Name-First: Farah
Author-X-Name-Last: Faek
Author-Name: Hasnaa AlHussein
Author-X-Name-First: Hasnaa
Author-X-Name-Last: AlHussein
Title: Understanding improvisation in construction through antecedents, behaviours and consequences
Abstract:
Improvisation is a deliberate, spontaneous and rational decision-making process that helps address emerging issues or unplanned work. Traditional management avoids relying on improvisation as it indicates deviation from the pre-planned procedures and standards. However, improvisational practices continue to exist within numerous uncertain environments such as construction where improvised actions emerge even though they are not encouraged. The purpose of this study is to develop a better understanding of the improvisational practices occurring in construction and recognize the factors contributing to successful improvisation. This study elucidates antecedents, behaviours and consequences of improvisation in various construction operations. Surveys were conducted among different construction professionals to understand improvisation on real-life construction projects. Statistical analyses show that personal experience and the type of organization a person works for have a significant effect on the outcomes of improvisation. In addition, results highlight the most frequent antecedents that trigger the need for improvisation to complete a certain task. The outcomes of this study can help managers and decision makers in the construction industry identify personal, organizational and other specific characteristics that may improve the practice of improvisation for complementing planning processes rather than undermining them.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 61-71
Issue: 2
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1497189
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1497189
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:2:p:61-71
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohd Azrai Azman
Author-X-Name-First: Mohd Azrai
Author-X-Name-Last: Azman
Author-Name: Carol K. H. Hon
Author-X-Name-First: Carol K. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hon
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Boon Liat Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Boon Liat
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: Bo Xia
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Xia
Title: A Meta-frontier method of decomposing long-term construction productivity components and technological gaps at the firm level: evidence from Malaysia
Abstract:
There is a need for a better approach to measure construction productivity rigorously, multilaterally, longitudinally and decomposed into its components. In response, this paper offers a robust approach to analysing construction productivity at the firm level that has been lacking in the industry to date, by measuring the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) of 37 public-listed Malaysian construction firms over 14 years (2003–2016), based on the Färe-Primont index. In comparing different groups of building, civil and specialist construction firms, this is the first application of a meta-frontier framework to capture the technological gaps involved. Based on the construction firms’ financial data, it is found that TFP improvement generally occurs due to Technical Efficiency (TE) and Scale-Mix Efficiency (SME) (largely scope economies), and significant technological gaps exist among different groups. Moreover, the industry suffered a decline in technologically related production environment over the period – prompting the conclusion that long-term policy engagement should focus on technological improvements. The paper provides a robust approach to analysing construction productivity at the firm level that also can be used for accessing productivity components and technological gaps in construction and other industries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 72-88
Issue: 2
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1506139
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1506139
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:2:p:72-88
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jessica Kaminsky
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Kaminsky
Title: The global influence of national cultural values on construction permitting
Abstract:
This research discovers how national level culture shapes construction permitting across 62 nations. Hofstede’s cultural dimensions explain variability in components of World Bank’s dealing with Construction Permits index, which measures the number of required permitting procedures, the required time in days, the cost as a percentage of a standardized warehouse value, and a permitting quality index. After controlling for gross domestic product, statistically significant relationships between permitting time and Hofstede’s Uncertainty Avoidance and Masculinity-Femininity dimensions emerged. Hofstede’s Power Distance Index shared statistically significant relationships with the number of procedures required for permitting, and a limited relationship with the cost of permitting. These data provide empirical evidence that different cultural preferences lead to different construction permitting practices, and allow the construction community to better understand the culturally shaped ways in which permits govern projects. This builds the theory of social sustainability of infrastructure, which seeks to generalize ways to match construction practice to societal preferences to improve community and project outcomes. For example, policy makers may use the results presented here to shape more culturally appropriate construction permitting regulations. In another example, construction firms may use these results to navigate permitting challenges they encounter on global projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 89-100
Issue: 2
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1506140
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1506140
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:2:p:89-100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Awad S. Hanna
Author-X-Name-First: Awad S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hanna
Author-Name: Karim A. Iskandar
Author-X-Name-First: Karim A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Iskandar
Author-Name: Wafik Lotfallah
Author-X-Name-First: Wafik
Author-X-Name-Last: Lotfallah
Title: Benchmarking project performance: a guideline for assessing vulnerability of mechanical and electrical projects to productivity loss
Abstract:
Loss of productivity is a contentious issue that has a profound impact on modern construction, yet existing literature provides no quantitative, data-driven method to compare the productivity of different construction projects or to assess their vulnerability to productivity loss. A new mathematically derived metric, called the “Risk of Productivity Loss (RPL)” score, provides such a method. RPL is a function of multiple distinct productivity factors. The RPL score is developed from a dataset of 166 electrical and mechanical projects, which collectively amount to 7.2 million labour hours. This large sample size makes the RPL score a reliable productivity benchmark for the electrical and mechanical construction industries due to their labour-intensive nature. The higher the RPL score, the higher the risk that a given project will suffer from productivity losses. To supplement the mathematical formula presented, objective data-based weights for multiple key productivity factors have been identified, reducing the subjectivity that affects many of the existing weighting assessment methods. RPL provides the industry with a single metric that allows tracking and assessment of productivity for multiple projects at a time so that a contractor may assess the successful reduction of productivity risk factors within the projects in their company.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 101-111
Issue: 2
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1513160
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1513160
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:2:p:101-111
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Russell Kenley
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Kenley
Title: CME Forum: a response to “Construction flow index: a metric of production flow quality in construction”
Abstract:
The study of types of flow in construction is a relatively new field. This paper reviews the work of Sacks et al. and reveals that they have applied a production-line metaphor with recognition of two production flows. Process flow: locations are equated with products moving down a production line. Operations flow: work crews are equated to work stations. Their work proposes an index of the quality of production flow in construction, but the research design has three significant flaws: the skilled interpretation of flow-line charts is not in turn applied to the interpretation of their example charts; the conceptual framework does recognize that the underlying metaphor requires levels of detail in both location and task that is not supported in their analysis. The meaning of “quality of flow” in this context is not defined. This debate raises important epistemological questions for those working in lean construction and location-based management. While the concept of “production flow quality” is important, the Sacks et al. methodology does not address the detailed planning of individual crews. It is only possible to apply the production-line metaphor if micro-management is adopted as detailed planning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 112-119
Issue: 2
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1535712
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1535712
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:2:p:112-119
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Benson Teck Heng Lim
Author-X-Name-First: Benson Teck Heng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Title: Mapping corporate social responsibility strategies in the construction and engineering industry
Abstract:
Interest in corporate social responsibility (CSR) is growing in response to societal and regulatory demands that construction businesses contribute positively to the environments and communities in which they build. While, CSR research in the construction and engineering industry is progressing there has been little research into whether and how firms in this industry operationalize CSR, how they incorporate CSR into their business vision, leadership and mission and strategies and what forms these strategies take. In addressing these gaps in knowledge, a survey of 104 firms from across the construction and engineering industry and its supply chain in Australia and New Zealand was undertaken. The results indicate that CSR in construction and engineering firms is largely informal, unsophisticated, compliance driven and in its early stages of development. There is little strategic focus in CSR initiatives and the potential social capital derived from better strategic relationships with communities appears to be largely wasted. Conceptually, it is concluded that there is a need to adapt current models of CSR practice, developed in a permanent business context, to reflect the transitional, nomadic and project-based nature of construction. Current models of CSR are inadequate at explaining how firms operating in the construction industry need to practically adjust and adapt their CSR strategies to fit with the constantly changing political, social, cultural, environmental and economic profiles of local communities and the requirements of clients and local governments.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 67-82
Issue: 2
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1326616
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1326616
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:2:p:67-82
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Kokkonen
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Kokkonen
Author-Name: Anne Live Vaagaasar
Author-X-Name-First: Anne Live
Author-X-Name-Last: Vaagaasar
Title: Managing collaborative space in multi-partner projects
Abstract:
Collaboration across company borders in multi-partner construction projects has proven to be challenging. An increasing number of projects aim to strengthen such collaboration by collocating project members from different companies in the same physical space. Yet we know little about the management practices required for taking advantage of such a collaborative space. To begin to remedy this shortcoming, we present an in-depth case study of a hospital construction project that applied a collaborative space and focus on the management practices influencing this space. With the help of affordance theory, we identified two types of management practices and show how they transform across project phases. These management practices included designing the physical elements of the collaborative space, and creating shared collaboration practices for the space. We contribute to the construction management literature by taking the first step in conceptualizing the connections between space, management and collaboration practices in the context of multi-partner projects. We suggest managers to consider carefully what kind of collaboration practices the space is expected to enhance and plan the physical and social space to support it.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 83-95
Issue: 2
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1347268
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1347268
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:2:p:83-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anthony T. Odoemena
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Odoemena
Author-Name: Masahide Horita
Author-X-Name-First: Masahide
Author-X-Name-Last: Horita
Title: A strategic analysis of contract termination in public–private partnerships: implications from cases in sub-Saharan Africa
Abstract:
The paper examines empirically what contributes to the problem of contract termination in public–private partnerships (PPPs) from the perspectives of theories on contracts, transaction costs and industrial organizations. Based on a theoretical exploration of a model of the holdup and underinvestment problems, we identified the profit-sharing mechanism as the contract type that most predisposes a PPP to the inefficiencies that lead to contract termination. We then conducted an empirical examination of a data-set of PPP contracts in sub-Saharan Africa. Using rough sets theory and the logic of explanatory power, we found that contract type outweighs other factors, such as sector and nationality, in the explanation of contract termination.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 96-108
Issue: 2
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1361039
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1361039
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:2:p:96-108
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hylton Olivieri
Author-X-Name-First: Hylton
Author-X-Name-Last: Olivieri
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Ariovaldo Denis Granja
Author-X-Name-First: Ariovaldo
Author-X-Name-Last: Denis Granja
Title: Improving workflow and resource usage in construction schedules through location-based management system (LBMS)
Abstract:
Critical Path Method (CPM), a planning and controlling technique, is widely used in the construction industry. However, CPM is criticized for its lack of workflow and inability to schedule continuous resource usage. Location-Based Management System (LBMS) fill these gaps and has been implemented in many construction projects. We propose that LBMS will improve schedules and project performance, addressing CPM’s main shortcomings. This study is composed of three case studies. CPM schedules were analyzed and were improved using LBMS tools. The resulting schedules show improved workflows, crew balancing, resource usage and had fewer interruptions, without affecting project duration. Furthermore, LBMS schedules were optimized with only a few scheduling operations and fewer planning elements. The computational benefit of LBMS increases with the number of locations and tasks in a schedule. Project managers will benefit from a simpler scheduling process and better resource flow.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-124
Issue: 2
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1410561
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1410561
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:2:p:109-124
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roberta Apa
Author-X-Name-First: Roberta
Author-X-Name-Last: Apa
Author-Name: Silvia Rita Sedita
Author-X-Name-First: Silvia Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Sedita
Title: How (do) internal capabilities and the geography of business networks shape the performance of contractors in public procurement tenders? Evidence from the construction industry
Abstract:
Public procurement tenders (PPTs) represent one of the largest sources of income for construction companies; the identification of factors that could favour the winning of these projects becomes more and more interesting. Our work aims to explore how firm-specific capabilities (project management, project administration and innovation) and the geography of its business network shape the success of contractors in winning PPTs, measured as the average value of projects won by the firms. We propose an empirical study of contractors involved in public procurement projects in the construction industry in three Italian regions from 2008 to 2012 employing a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis. This methodology allows analysing how different combinations of causal conditions contribute to an outcome. Our research highlights that there are three successful strategies for firms attempting to obtain high-value PPT projects: (1) invest in high-level project management capabilities, engage in business networks with distant clients and intensify innovation capacity; (2) invest in high-level project administration capabilities, engage in business networks with local clients and suppliers (within 100 km), report a large number of certifications and show a high innovation capacity; and (3) invest in growth strategies to increase the size of the company.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 404-419
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1287926
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1287926
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:404-419
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Harty
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Harty
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Title: The futures of construction management research
Abstract:
Construction management is an internationally recognized area of research with an established and growing community of academics. It has grown from largely “research consultancy” activities to additionally attracting significant amounts of academic research funding and has, partially, moved away from its applied, engineering dominated origins to increasingly engage with, and contribute to, mainstream academic debates in business and management, economics and the social sciences. It has, as such, become an academic field in its own right. However, recent dynamics within both university institutions and national economies are changing the landscape of construction management research (CMR). A blurring of traditional university boundaries, reprioritization of research funding and increasing emphasis on national and international rankings have led to increased pressure on individual academics and the community they constitute. Drawing on scenario development we ask what, in the face of a turbulent environment, might the futures of CMR be? Four potential futures for CMR are outlined, depicted as four potential scenarios: convergence, retrenchment, disappearance and hybridization. These describe potential outcomes from the institutional dynamics currently at play. The intention is neither to predict the future, nor to prioritize one scenario over another, but to open a debate on the institutional pressures the field is facing, and what the outcomes might be.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 392-403
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1306089
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1306089
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:392-403
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abderisak Adam
Author-X-Name-First: Abderisak
Author-X-Name-Last: Adam
Author-Name: Göran Lindahl
Author-X-Name-First: Göran
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindahl
Title: Applying the dynamic capabilities framework in the case of a large public construction client
Abstract:
Public clients in the construction sector face a number of challenges in designing, procuring and managing major construction projects. The client’s role in bringing about project delivery has more recently been emphasized, particularly with respect to developing capabilities that facilitate the coordinating of projects through its different phases. In line with these developments, this paper sets out to examine the management of capabilities in a client organization through the lens of the dynamic capabilities framework. In particular, what is investigated is how the client organization senses, seizes and transforms opportunities. In pursuit of this objective, an exploratory case study approach is adopted which examines one of Sweden’s largest public client organizations. The study explores the concept of dynamic capabilities and its applicability to the public construction context. Although the usefulness of dynamic capabilities as an interpretive framework is recognized, it is suggested that the concept of dynamic capabilities is inadequate for addressing the specific context in which public client organizations operate. Particularly with respect to the project-based characteristic of these organizations and the difficulty in framing what constitutes “competitive advantage” for public organizations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 420-431
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1309441
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1309441
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:420-431
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Rajen Govender
Author-X-Name-First: Rajen
Author-X-Name-Last: Govender
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: Condom use by South African construction workers
Abstract:
Consistent and proper condom use is pivotal in preventing HIV infection. HIV prevalence in South Africa is among the highest in the world, with the construction industry especially affected, yet little is known about condom use by construction workers and the determinants thereof. Data were gathered from 512 site-based workers in the Western Cape. A theoretical model explaining condom use as a function of demographic factors, HIV knowledge, substance usage and risky sexual behaviour (excluding condom use) was proposed and tested using regression and structural equations modelling. The findings indicated that age, gender and level of education were indirect determinants of condom use, with higher levels of education predicting better AIDS-related knowledge. Higher levels of risky sexual behaviour were associated with more frequent use of condoms, suggesting greater awareness of risk. Condom use was adversely affected by greater alcohol and drug use, probably as a result of diminished capacity to assess risk. Finally, lower and not higher levels of AIDS-related knowledge were associated with better condom use, suggesting that improved knowledge of HIV transmission may work contrary to safe sex practice if it lulls the person into a false sense of confidence. Recommendations for targeted workplace interventions are proposed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 432-444
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1311019
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1311019
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:432-444
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chris Ivory
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Ivory
Title: The prospects for a production management body of knowledge in business schools: response to Koskela (2017) “Why is management research irrelevant?”
Abstract:
This article is a response to Lauri Koskela’s recent piece in Construction Management and Economics (“Why is management research irrelevant?” 35(1–2): 4–23) which reflects on the relationship between academic research and management practice in business schools. In particular, Koskela asks why production management research and teaching has disappeared from the business school agenda and why management research has failed to produce a consistent body of knowledge that is of use to management practice. In this article, I try to provide some alternative perspectives on the present and past contexts of management theory and production research. I argue that production research, if not teaching, is alive and well and the site of theory generation, problem-focused research and innovation. I also question the veracity and wisdom of a creating “body of knowledge” in relation to management research and practice-even if it were possible, which I believe it is not. My assessment of the state of research in business schools, at least in the U.K. and the U.S. and notwithstanding a lack of consensus over how to approach management research, is that it is eclectic and vibrant and of much more use to practicing managers in that state.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 385-391
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1323111
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1323111
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:385-391
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: On the right to disagree, healthy debates and moving forward
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-384
Issue: 7
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1328769
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1328769
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:7:p:383-384
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marco Alvise Bragadin
Author-X-Name-First: Marco Alvise
Author-X-Name-Last: Bragadin
Author-Name: Kalle Kähkönen
Author-X-Name-First: Kalle
Author-X-Name-Last: Kähkönen
Title: Schedule health assessment of construction projects
Abstract:
Several factors can contribute to the success of construction projects. A sound and good quality construction schedule is considered to be one of them. The quality of schedules has been a research topic only for a few efforts and amongst them construction-oriented research is even more rare. Methodical grounds for assessing schedule quality have been studied via literature study for the development of appropriate solutions to assess the quality of construction schedules. These findings combined with the experiences from practical implementations have resulted in the definition of a metric to measure schedule quality for construction projects. It includes 75 schedule requirements classified into 5 groups: general requirements, construction process, schedule mechanics, cost and resources and control process. This structure forms a core for the developed method to assess construction schedule quality termed as Schedule Health Assessment. The developed method has also the purpose of assisting project planners to produce and maintain good quality schedules starting from the project initiation until its completion, as via using the method to detect deficiencies of project schedules and other critical issues having importance with respect to schedule maintenance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 875-897
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1205751
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1205751
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:875-897
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jean-Charles Fiolet
Author-X-Name-First: Jean-Charles
Author-X-Name-Last: Fiolet
Author-Name: Carl Haas
Author-X-Name-First: Carl
Author-X-Name-Last: Haas
Author-Name: Keith Hipel
Author-X-Name-First: Keith
Author-X-Name-Last: Hipel
Title: Risk-chasing behaviour in on-site construction decisions
Abstract:
Risk-chasing behaviour in on-site construction decision-making can result in illogical decisions and, thus, significant project losses. Accordingly, the authors conducted a set of experiments in order to detect the existence of such behaviour under a range of typical project conditions within a set of common situations. Fifty-three project leaders participated in the experiments by making choices framed by a set of 24 questions. Each question related to a known behavioural tendency, included the influence of an external parameter, and contained information from which expected values could be derived. Participants were well distributed by geography, age and experience. Contrary to the common perception that construction decision-makers are relentlessly risk-averse, they demonstrated risk-chasing behaviour when the decision occurred in over-budget project conditions. Younger participants were even more risk chasing in such conditions. Understanding and identifying where such behaviour occurs could ultimately lead to the development of means of avoiding the resulting losses.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 845-858
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1207790
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1207790
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:845-858
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mesut Pala
Author-X-Name-First: Mesut
Author-X-Name-Last: Pala
Author-Name: Francis Edum-Fotwe
Author-X-Name-First: Francis
Author-X-Name-Last: Edum-Fotwe
Author-Name: Kirti Ruikar
Author-X-Name-First: Kirti
Author-X-Name-Last: Ruikar
Author-Name: Chris Peters
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Peters
Author-Name: Nathan Doughty
Author-X-Name-First: Nathan
Author-X-Name-Last: Doughty
Title: Implementing commercial information exchange: a construction supply chain case study
Abstract:
The concept of electronic trading (e-trading) has transformed supply chain interactions in many industries, yet little research explored its implementation by Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) supply chain firms. E-trading relies on commercial information exchange by supply chain partners which is generally adopted through intermediary technology partners (Hub Providers) to facilitate the accurate and timely communication of transactional data between buyers and supplier. A case study was conducted to explore the challenges and barriers to implementation of cross-firm commercial information exchange. The study primarily involved investigation of the interfaces between software development and organizational functions assisting with the electronic exchange of commercial information (eCIX) implementation. Findings from the case study show that implementation of commercial information exchange is not an easy task with several themes of factors to be considered during delivery of such projects, namely technical, coordination, integration and organizational. The study contributes to the knowledge and deployment of e-trading solutions within the context of AEC firms, and should be of interest to the practitioners contemplating similar projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 898-918
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1211718
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1211718
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:898-918
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jun Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Jun
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Wenchi Shou
Author-X-Name-First: Wenchi
Author-X-Name-Last: Shou
Author-Name: Xiangyu Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiangyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Peng Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Peng
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Title: Developing and evaluating a framework of total constraint management for improving workflow in liquefied natural gas construction
Abstract:
Liquefied natural gas projects are complex and full of variability. Their plan reliability is affected by constraints arising from engineering, supply chains and construction site. Effective management of these constraints is critical to reducing project uncertainties and improve workflow. However, current approaches for constraint removal are fragmented and heavily rely on human’s commitments because the underlying data for decision-making are static and outdated. In order to tackle this problem, this paper proposes a framework of total constraint management (TCM), which consists of three main parts: constraint modelling, constraint monitoring and constraint removal. Information technologies (i.e. building information modelling, radio frequency identification, barcoding, laser scanning and photogrammetry) are also discussed and incorporated into the TCM framework so as to make it more practical and effective. A laboratory-based experiment was developed to demonstrate and evaluate the framework. The results showed that successful implementation of TCM could significantly improve construction workflow and productivity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 859-874
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1227460
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1227460
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:859-874
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: Estimating the number of new and repeated bidders in construction auctions
Abstract:
The number of new bidders – bidders from whom there is no previous registered participation – is an important variable in most bid tender forecasting models, since the unknown competitive profile of the former strongly limits the predictive accuracy of the latter. Analogously, when a bidder considers entering a bid or when an auctioneer is handling a procurement auction, assessing the likely proportion of experienced bidders is considered an important aspect, as some strategic decisions or even the awarding criteria might differ. However, estimating the number of bidders in a future auction that have not submitted a single bid yet is difficult, since there is no data at all linking their potential participation, an essential requirement for the implementation of any forecasting or estimation method. A practical approach is derived for determining the expected proportion of new bidders to frequent bidders as a function of the population of potential bidders. A multinomial model useful for selective and Open tendering is proposed and its performance is validated with a dataset of actual construction auctions. Final remarks concern the valuable information provided by the model to an enduring unsolved bidding problem and the prospects for new research continuations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 919-934
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1231408
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1231408
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:919-934
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 843-844
Issue: 12
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1240843
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1240843
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:12:p:843-844
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hannes Lindblad
Author-X-Name-First: Hannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindblad
Title: Black boxing BIM: the public client’s strategy in BIM implementation
Abstract:
Building information modelling (BIM) is widely discussed in both industry and academia and studies have argued that public clients play an important role in industry’s implementation of BIM. While public client initiatives have gained much interest in previous research, there is still a lack of knowledge exploring the public clients’ role and choice of strategies when implementing BIM with the aim to change industry. Based on a case study of BIM implementation at the largest infrastructure client in Sweden, this paper applies the theory sociology of translation to explore the role of the public client as a driver for industry change and the strategy used during this process. The case study shows how the public client tries to influence its own organization and the construction industry as a whole. Findings show that the main strategy for enrolling actors to implement BIM is to demand its use in the procurement of all construction projects, thereby attempting to establish the BIM issue as a Black Box. A Black Box, a locked network element, which includes associated inscriptions aimed at prescribing BIM use in projects conducted by this client. The acceptance of this Black Box has however been problematic, resulting in a diverse influence on the demand for BIM in procured construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-12
Issue: 1
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1472385
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1472385
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:1:p:1-12
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: Looking out to look in: inspiration from social sciences for construction management research
Abstract:
In reaction to the recent call for critical debate in the field of construction management research, I argue that we should embrace the richness of adjacent fields of study in order to dynamically develop our own and face the plethora of contemporary societal challenges that exist in our industry. I introduce the concepts of other-than-rational thinking in decision-making and multiplicity in management responses as examples of inspirational sources from social sciences that would contribute to truly understanding the driving forces of construction management processes. I connect these concepts to contemporary studies in construction management and share my experiences with several positive collaborative approaches in conducting construction management research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 13-23
Issue: 1
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1473619
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1473619
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:1:p:13-23
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: M. van den Boomen
Author-X-Name-First: M.
Author-X-Name-Last: van den Boomen
Author-Name: M. T. J. Spaan
Author-X-Name-First: M. T. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spaan
Author-Name: R. Schoenmaker
Author-X-Name-First: R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Schoenmaker
Author-Name: A. R. M. Wolfert
Author-X-Name-First: A. R. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wolfert
Title: Untangling decision tree and real options analyses: a public infrastructure case study dealing with political decisions, structural integrity and price uncertainty
Abstract:
Managerial flexibility in infrastructure investment and replacement decisions adds value. Real options analysis (ROA) captures this value under uncertain market prices. The concept of ROA is that future unfavourable payoffs can be deferred as soon as more information about market prices becomes available. The popularity of ROA is seen in a growing number of case studies on real assets. Despite its increasing popularity, ROA has not gained a foothold in public infrastructure decision making. One of the difficulties in the application of ROA is the required estimation of market variables. To avoid this, a simplified but not correct version of ROA is easily applied, referred to as a Decision Tree Approach (DTA) to ROA. Another difficulty is that infrastructure assets are subject to other types of uncertainties, defined here as asset uncertainties. This study investigates the value of managerial flexibility in a public infrastructure replacement decision. The uncertainty drivers are the strength of a bridge, political decisions regarding traffic flow and the price development of construction costs. Three valuation approaches are compared: DTA, ROA and the DT approach to ROA. Although it is complex, ROA certainly adds value in public infrastructure decision making when market price uncertainty is prevalent. However, in the absence of reasonable estimates of market variables, the DT approach to ROA is the best alternative. In the absence of market price uncertainties, ROA should be avoided DTA is to be preferred.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 24-43
Issue: 1
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1486510
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1486510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:1:p:24-43
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jing Du
Author-X-Name-First: Jing
Author-X-Name-Last: Du
Author-Name: Dong Zhao
Author-X-Name-First: Dong
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhao
Author-Name: Ou Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Ou
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: Impacts of human communication network topology on group optimism bias in Capital Project Planning: a human-subject experiment
Abstract:
Capital projects are critical to the world’s economy. Despite the advancement of prediction techniques, capital projects still suffer from overly optimistic plans, i.e. tight budgets and schedules. This article focuses on understanding this issue from the perspective of optimism bias, i.e. a psychological bias toward the inclination to be overly optimistic about the chance of success. We hypothesize that human communication network topologies are strong predictors of harmful optimism bias at the group level in project planning. A human-subject experiment was performed to test group optimism bias levels under different communication network topologies. We recruited 103 subjects to estimate the cost of an artificial power plant project. The communication networks were manipulated to reflect different topologies. The subjects’ estimates were compared to a Monte Carlo simulation result based on real historical data to quantify the level of optimism bias at the group level. Preliminary results find that certain human communication network topology leads to more realistic estimates, possibly due to a process of updating individual judgement based on peers’ judgements. The findings of this study are expected to urge further theoretical investigations into the development of simple yet effective decision support systems to reduce decision-making bias in capital project planning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 44-60
Issue: 1
Volume: 37
Year: 2019
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1508848
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1508848
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:37:y:2019:i:1:p:44-60
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susanna Vass
Author-X-Name-First: Susanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Vass
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina Karrbom
Author-X-Name-Last: Gustavsson
Title: Challenges when implementing BIM for industry change
Abstract:
Public clients have been identified as drivers of architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry change through their implementation of building information modelling (BIM). Yet, little is known of this implementation process and the associated challenges. This study aims to increase the understanding of what intra- and inter-organizational challenges that arise when a large Swedish public infrastructure client implements BIM to change the work practices of the actors in the Swedish AEC industry. The IT business value model allows for understanding the public client’s implementation of BIM as an IT-supported change process and for understanding the associated intra- and inter-organizational challenges. The findings show nine categories of intra- and inter-organizational challenges related to, for example, demanding BIM in procurement and creating incentives for BIM implementation. The findings show that intra-organizational challenges related to a top-down implementation of BIM, while inter-organizational challenges related to a bottom-up implementation. The impact of these challenges on the public client’s ability to drive AEC industry change by implementing BIM is discussed. The findings contribute with the client perspective to studies on BIM implementation and with an increased understanding of the challenges associated with implementing IT-supported change processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 597-610
Issue: 10
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1314519
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1314519
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:10:p:597-610
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mattias Jacobsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mattias
Author-X-Name-Last: Jacobsson
Author-Name: Henrik C.J. Linderoth
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik C.J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Linderoth
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: The role of industry: an analytical framework to understand ICT transformation within the AEC industry
Abstract:
Despite wide-ranging research on information and communication technologies (ICT) in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, little is known about the role that industry plays in the adoption and use of ICT. Based on observations of how the drivers for ICT use seem to be inconsistent with the industry’s central characteristics, and drawing on information systems (IS) research that demonstrates the role of shared systems of meaning, the purpose here is to develop an analytical framework that explains how industry shapes the adoption and use of ICT. Building on a theoretically driven approach and a case study, a framework is first sketched and then substantiated through empirical illustrations. Three dimensions of industry are highlighted: the socio-cognitive environment, the market and production environment and institutional actors. It is explained how the interplay of these dimensions shapes the way the industry functions, which in turn influence the adoption and use of ICT. The outcomes of the interplay can either be aligned or misaligned with ICT, which explains why certain aligned applications are rapidly adopted, whereas other applications are not. The primary implication is that the framework can aid in analysing the need for structural adaptation when trying to achieve ICT-induced change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 611-626
Issue: 10
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1315148
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1315148
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:10:p:611-626
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Jemma Bridgeman
Author-X-Name-First: Jemma
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridgeman
Title: Corporate volunteering in the construction industry: motivations, costs and benefits
Abstract:
Corporate volunteering is a growing global phenomenon. Despite the size and significance of the construction industry, there has been no research into corporate volunteering in this sector which presents special challenges around its highly transitionary, temporary, regulated and project-based culture. To address this gap in knowledge and to answer the need for more scholarship and sector-specific insights in this field, the motives, benefits and costs of corporate volunteering for construction businesses and the volunteers that work for them are explored. Through an in-depth single case study of one of the UK’s largest construction industry corporate volunteering programmes, it is shown that at an individual level, it is not always altruism that motives people to volunteer. Volunteers in construction are also motivated by other factors such as loyalty to their organization, profession and industry, relational/networking opportunities and the reinforcement of technical skills and personal satisfaction derived from helping others which is not normally afforded in work. At a business level the main benefits of volunteering are reputational advantage, recruitment and new skills and access to new knowledge and capabilities. Conceptually, the results indicate that systems theory, empowerment theory, life span theory and social exchange theory would be useful theoretical lenses to take research in this new area of corporate social responsibility forward. It is concluded that further research is needed into different types of volunteering programmes and whether individual benefits experienced by volunteers translate into commercial benefits for the organizations involved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 641-653
Issue: 10
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1315150
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1315150
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:10:p:641-653
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Athena Roumboutsos
Author-X-Name-First: Athena
Author-X-Name-Last: Roumboutsos
Author-Name: Ancor Suárez Alemán
Author-X-Name-First: Ancor
Author-X-Name-Last: Suárez Alemán
Author-Name: Robert Ågren
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Ågren
Title: Construction firms in public–private partnerships: a place to grow
Abstract:
Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) constitute a crucial vehicle in delivering infrastructure. In the transport sector the primary project sponsors are construction companies, which over the last few decades have transformed to strong international actors. In order to study growth strategies stemming from the PPP agreement, a conceptual game theoretic model built on four institutional rationalities (legal, political and scientific in addition to economic) driving economic behaviour is presented. The model indicates that the prevailing strategies are training, acquisitions and step-outs. The former strategy is less efficient than the other two with respect to the single project. The latter two suggest the likelihood of “unproductive investments” influencing infrastructure quality and social benefits. All three strategies lead to market concentration, which has been evidenced in the market. The model only considers construction firm strategies and does not weight the relative importance of the operation phase with respect to the construction one. This would be an extension to the model, which would then also consider operator strategies. In its present form, the model indicates the conditions leading to “unproductive investments” and market concentration and provides the grounds to formulate policy guidelines to limit adverse effects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 627-640
Issue: 10
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1319573
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1319573
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:10:p:627-640
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sulafa Badi
Author-X-Name-First: Sulafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Badi
Title: Public sustainable-energy requirements and innovation in UK PFI school projects
Abstract:
In a bid to understand the relationship between public sector clients’ sustainable energy requirements and innovation, this paper describes a study examining the requirement development process in four private finance initiative (PFI) school projects. A case study approach was adopted to enable a greater understanding of the public sector clients’ activities at the front end of the design process, particularly focusing on requirement identification and the effect of the requirement on private sector actors’ pursuit of an innovative sustainable design. The findings have shown that incentive effects of the requirements are often weak in PFI projects, particularly in relation to the requirement’s specificity and achievability, the inability of requirements such as BREEAM to promote energy efficiency and the low weighting of environmental sustainability on PFI bid evaluation criteria. Taken together, these results offer insight into public authorities in relation to the necessary conditions for the use of requirements as an effective contractual mechanism to encourage innovation for sustainable energy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 218-238
Issue: 4
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1237034
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1237034
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:4:p:218-238
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: F. T. T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: F. T. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: Does the built-environment industry attract risk-taking individuals?
Abstract:
This exploratory research examines whether or not those attracted to professional-level occupations in the built-environment industry are innately physical risk-takers and hence potentially, thereby, more likely to countenance or contribute to physically risky workplace climates. Using individual-level data, the occupational attractiveness of the built-environment industry subsectors of construction management and architecture are each found positively and significantly to be predicted by physical risk-taking propensity, but not by a comparator risk-taking propensity, gambling. Conversely, the occupational attractiveness of a comparator profession in financial services is found to be significantly predicted by gambling risk-taking propensity, but not by physical risk-taking propensity. Although exploratory, our finding that two key professions in the built-environment industry are each discretely found to be attractive to physical risk-takers suggests not only that constituent occupations within the industry, but that the industry as a whole might perhaps engender a self-reinforcing suboptimal workplace safety climate. Accordingly, constituent subsectors of the industry may need both separately and collectively to consider the phenomenon of physical risk-taking propensity amongst the professionals it attracts in order effectively to set and manage the site work-place safety climate that such professionals are ultimately responsible for creating and delivering in a sector fraught with physical risks for site workers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-217
Issue: 4
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1237776
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1237776
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:4:p:207-217
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hatice Çiğdem Demirel
Author-X-Name-First: Hatice Çiğdem
Author-X-Name-Last: Demirel
Author-Name: Wim Leendertse
Author-X-Name-First: Wim
Author-X-Name-Last: Leendertse
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Author-Name: Marcel Hertogh
Author-X-Name-First: Marcel
Author-X-Name-Last: Hertogh
Title: Flexibility in PPP contracts – Dealing with potential change in the pre-contract phase of a construction project
Abstract:
Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) cover a range of possible relationships between public and private parties. PPP contracts are typically used in contexts of great uncertainty, such as large construction and infrastructure projects that are realized over a longer period of time. Hence, a major challenge in PPPs is to keep construction progress cost-efficient and on schedule, under continuously changing circumstances. One way to achieve this is through clever contracting, by proactively anticipating potential change in the planning phase and providing flexible contract mechanisms that enable an effective response. The purpose of this article is to discuss potential changes and the subsequent requirement of flexibility in PPP contracts. By flexibility, we mean the ability of the contract to deal with changing circumstances. We set out to do so by studying the available literature on the subject and by analysing the case study of the Blankenburgverbinding in the Netherlands, a Design, Build, Finance and Maintain (DBFM) project that is currently in its planning phase based on 32 interviews. Our main findings are that the timely and accurate recognition of potential changes, combined with the availability of flexible coping mechanisms, provide the stakeholders with a better understanding of the challenges they face in realizing their aims in the pre-contract phase of projects. This understanding helps to better prepare a PPP contract for potential changes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 196-206
Issue: 4
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1241414
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1241414
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:4:p:196-206
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kerstin Hemström
Author-X-Name-First: Kerstin
Author-X-Name-Last: Hemström
Author-Name: Leif Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Leif
Author-X-Name-Last: Gustavsson
Author-Name: Krushna Mahapatra
Author-X-Name-First: Krushna
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahapatra
Title: The sociotechnical regime and Swedish contractor perceptions of structural frames
Abstract:
To deepen the understanding of the sociotechnical regime that directs the selection of structural frames in multifamily buildings in Sweden, we study the perceptions of contractor representatives. Contract managers (CMs) employed at contractor firms were interviewed regarding their role, the selection of the structural frame and how they perceived different options. The results show that CMs largely influence the selection of the structural frame in multifamily buildings, which are guided by the established concrete-based sociotechnical regime. The regime is maintained through cognitive rules regarding structural frame options and the alignment of skills of construction professionals. Because of their influence and their investments in the skills of construction workers, CMs make important contributions to maintain the regime and the concrete path dependency. Furthermore, the regime varies in strength in different locations. Some locations carry a strong norm to cast concrete frames on site. This makes it more difficult to deviate from the established practice. In other locations, wood-promoting initiatives have changed the cognitive rules associated with the regime. Nonetheless, the sociotechnical regime makes the selection of concrete structural frames beneficial. This prevents wood-framed multifamily buildings from entering common usage, even though such buildings can contribute to mitigating climate change.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 184-195
Issue: 4
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1245428
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1245428
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:4:p:184-195
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Let’s get critical! A call for critical reviews and essays
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-183
Issue: 4
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1296624
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1296624
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:4:p:183-183
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna-Maija Hietajärvi
Author-X-Name-First: Anna-Maija
Author-X-Name-Last: Hietajärvi
Author-Name: Kirsi Aaltonen
Author-X-Name-First: Kirsi
Author-X-Name-Last: Aaltonen
Title: The formation of a collaborative project identity in an infrastructure alliance project
Abstract:
Inter-organizational projects struggle to build a sense of joint belonging and a culture of cooperation. In evaluating the social processes of collaboration in inter-organizational projects, organizational identity is considered a core concept. To extend existing knowledge of how collaborative identity is formed in inter-organizational infrastructure projects, the study investigates how the specific characteristics of temporary organizations (time, team, task and context) influence identity formation activities. A case study of the first Finnish infrastructure alliance project identifies six key activities supporting the formation of collaborative project identity: (1) articulating a joint vision for collaborative project identity; (2) converging on mutual conceptions of collaborative project alliance philosophy; (3) attaining a shared collaborative mentality; (4) designing ways of working with multiple identities; (5) attaining distinctiveness and (6) legitimizing activities. The findings indicate that identity formation activities are context-dependent, and that the formation of organizational identity differs between temporary and permanent organizations. The findings illuminate how managers can build a collaborative project identity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-21
Issue: 1
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1315149
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1315149
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:1:p:1-21
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lars Peter Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Author-Name: Line Nørdam
Author-X-Name-First: Line
Author-X-Name-Last: Nørdam
Author-Name: Thomas Joensson
Author-X-Name-First: Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Joensson
Author-Name: Pete Kines
Author-X-Name-First: Pete
Author-X-Name-Last: Kines
Author-Name: Kent J. Nielsen
Author-X-Name-First: Kent J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nielsen
Title: Social identity, safety climate and self-reported accidents among construction workers
Abstract:
The construction industry has one of the highest frequencies of work-related accidents. We examined whether construction workers predominantly identify themselves in terms of their workgroup or in terms of the construction site. In addition, we examined the associations between social identity and safety climate, and how these constructs are associated with work-related accidents. The analyses were based on questionnaire responses from 478 construction workers from two large construction sites, and the methods involved structural equation modeling. Results showed that the workers identified themselves primarily with their workgroup, and to a lesser degree with the construction site. Social identity and safety climate were related both at the workgroup and construction site levels, meaning that social identity may be an antecedent for safety climate. The association between social identity and safety climate was stronger at the workgroup level than at the construction site level. Finally, safety climate at both levels was inversely associated with self-reported accidents, with the strongest association at the workgroup level. A focus on improving safety climate, particularly by integrating initiatives at both the workgroup and management level, may have the potential to improve safety performance and thus decrease the risk of accidents and injuries on construction sites.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 22-31
Issue: 1
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1339360
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1339360
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:1:p:22-31
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Author-Name: Hylton Olivieri
Author-X-Name-First: Hylton
Author-X-Name-Last: Olivieri
Author-Name: Ariovaldo Denis Granja
Author-X-Name-First: Ariovaldo Denis
Author-X-Name-Last: Granja
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Title: Categorizing modularization strategies to achieve various objectives of building investments
Abstract:
Modularization has recently attracted considerable interest among academics and practitioners. In the construction industry, several modular solutions have been introduced and examined; however, hardly any study comprehensively classifies the different modularization strategies according to their possibility to achieve various objectives of building investments. This research aims to develop a framework for identifying and classifying modularization strategies in construction according to their suitability to achieve the specific outcomes intended for a building or its subsystem. Using the literature on product modularity, product platforms and production strategies as a basis, this study has developed a theoretical framework that proposes connections between the main objectives of a building investment and the dimensions of modularization strategies. The framework is elaborated by testing the propositions, based on an empirical analysis of nine real-life case studies. The findings reveal that modularization can be a suitable approach to develop an innovative design solution; improve a project’s quality, cost and schedule performance; and enable flexibility in building use and maintenance. However, suggestions for achieving these objectives vary from project organization-driven to collaborative, integrated or supplier-driven modularization strategies. Developers, owners, contractors and module suppliers can use the framework when positioning and developing their roles in the construction supply chain.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 32-48
Issue: 1
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1353119
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1353119
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:1:p:32-48
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Viktoria Sundquist
Author-X-Name-First: Viktoria
Author-X-Name-Last: Sundquist
Author-Name: Lars-Erik Gadde
Author-X-Name-First: Lars-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Gadde
Author-Name: Kajsa Hulthén
Author-X-Name-First: Kajsa
Author-X-Name-Last: Hulthén
Title: Reorganizing construction logistics for improved performance
Abstract:
Previous research indicates that logistics reorganizing can contribute to improved performance in the construction industry. In this paper, the opportunities for such reorganizing are investigated by focusing on the connection between logistics operations at the construction site and operations undertaken before building materials land at sites. The aims of the study are: (1) to empirically explore strategic actions to reorganize construction logistics by improving the connections between on-site and off-site logistics, and (2) to develop a theoretical framework for analysis of potential options for reorganizing. The empirical inquiry involves a case study of a logistics specialist’s efforts to reorganize on-site logistics and the associated consequences for off-site operations. The study is based on 28 interviews with representatives of 13 organizations. The study provides two types of contributions. First, the theoretical framework, rooted in industrial network theory, enables analysis of reorganizing of activities, resources and actors to improve logistics performance. Second, the empirical study shows that a logistics specialist can improve on-site logistics substantially. However, such reorganizing requires adjustments of off-site logistics that may be resource demanding. Therefore, effective connecting of on-site and off-site operations calls for extended interaction between the actors in terms of joint planning and exchange of information.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 49-65
Issue: 1
Volume: 36
Year: 2018
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2017.1356931
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2017.1356931
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:36:y:2018:i:1:p:49-65
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 651-653
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190220000147550
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190220000147550
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:651-653
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: W. K. Fu
Author-X-Name-First: W. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Fu
Author-Name: Derek S. Drew
Author-X-Name-First: Derek S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Drew
Author-Name: H. P. Lo
Author-X-Name-First: H. P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lo
Title: The effect of experience on contractors' competitiveness in recurrent bidding
Abstract: This paper considers the relationship between bidding competitiveness, organizational learning and experience and it measures the effect of contractors' bidding experience on competitiveness in recurrent bidding, a notion that conceptualizes a continuous decision-making process in which experiential learning plays a key role. The data analysis demonstrates that contractors who bid more frequently over a six-year period are more competitive than contractors who bid occasionally. It is found that greater bidding competitiveness is positively correlated with the frequency of bidding attempts. An analysis of contractors' bidding performance on a pairwise basis supports this finding. Not only does the pairwise analysis show that the bidding competitiveness of experienced contractors who bid frequently is greater, but also that experienced contractors' bidding attempts fall within a relatively small competitiveness range when compared with that of contractors who only bid occasionally. A key finding of this paper is the existence of some experienced contractors, who may be perceived as being ‘experienced market players’, having the attribute of a more competitive and consistent bidding performance. This research should be useful to procurers looking to prequalify contractors on the basis of experience and to contractors in analysing their bidding performance and/or their competitors' bidding performance.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 655-666
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619022000014060
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619022000014060
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:655-666
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: H. Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: C. M. Tam
Author-X-Name-First: C. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tam
Author-Name: Jonathan J. Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Jonathan J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Title: Simulation-based methodology for project scheduling
Abstract: This paper describes a discrete-event simulation that incorporates the critical path method (CPM) in generating comprehensive information for construction project scheduling or planning. An activity-based graphical model able to consider complexities in construction, for example, unbalanced logical dependencies, unbalanced resource involvements and repetitive activity operation is proposed. An activity scanning (AS)-based forward pass algorithm for early-time information and a backward search algorithm for late-time information are developed. The simulation results that include both resource utilization statistics and late-time information (i.e. latest start or finish time and total float (TF)) of every activity for each cycle of operation cannot be easily achieved through traditional simulation or CPM. Illustrations demonstrate the advantages of the activity-based graphical model and the impacts of resource allocation policies on the schedule. The proposed methodology aims at widening the application of construction simulation by providing float time information and enhanced modelling capability.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 667-678
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619022000014088
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619022000014088
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:667-678
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alan Griffith
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Griffith
Title: Key considerations for developing corporate and operational approaches for managing the small building works portfolio of large client organizations
Abstract: Many large organizations, which act in the capacity of clients to the construction industry, own and occupy extensive, diverse and often geographically dispersed property estates. To maintain their upkeep and use, these estates often require very considerable annual expenditure on maintenance, alterations, refurbishment and small-scale new building works. Activities encompassing these types form the category of small building works, a sub-sector of the construction industry which amounts to around £9 billion, or 20%, of annual UK total construction output. The effective management of small building works in the context of any organization with large property holdings is essential, as better management of the small building works portfolio can contribute significantly to the business of the organization. This paper contributes new data and adds to the synthesis of findings from research studies into small works, supported by governmental and industry sources and conducted over a 10-year period. It aims to assist in the development of corporate and operational approaches for managing the small building works portfolio of large organizations by highlighting key considerations. These are linked to a dynamic control cycle, or system, to assist organizations in implementing practice based on the considerations made.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 679-687
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619022000014042
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619022000014042
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:679-687
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stephen Fox
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Fox
Author-Name: Laurence Marsh
Author-X-Name-First: Laurence
Author-X-Name-Last: Marsh
Author-Name: Graham Cockerham
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Cockerham
Title: Constructability rules: guidelines for successful application to bespoke buildings
Abstract: It is widely recognized that building design has a significant impact on construction productivity and quality. Constructability rules are one way of transferring construction knowledge to building designers. These rules are statements, such as ‘design for minimum time below ground’, which encapsulate a specific aspect of construction best practice. Although constructability rules are relatively easy to formulate and/or obtain, there is little evidence of their successful application. Indeed, architects continue to be held responsible for productivity and quality problems because of their lack of construction knowledge. This paper reports research that informed and included the development of guidelines for successful application of constructability rules to bespoke buildings - those being buildings that are designed to fulfil the requirements of one particular client and/or a single specific location. Findings suggest that there are actions that can be taken to widen the application of rules and increase their success. Potential sources for rules are described. Guidelines are introduced, and information about how they can be actioned by different construction organizations is provided.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 689-696
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446190210163606
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446190210163606
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:689-696
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andrew Agapiou
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Agapiou
Title: Perceptions of gender roles and attitudes toward work among male and female operatives in the Scottish construction industry
Abstract: The predominant image of construction is that of a male-dominated industry requiring brute strength and a good tolerance for outdoor conditions, inclement weather and bad language. Reconciling this image with women's participation in the construction industry is problematic. However, there are early signs of a cultural shift in the industry. This paper presents an empirical review of wome's roles within the industry and the ways in which people make sense of their working experience when traditional gender roles are challenged. Based on qualitative research, the study found that men in the industry regarded as the gatekeepers are now finding ways to respond to and make sense of a changing workplace, and the realities that women are now actively encouraged to participate, legally protected against discrimination and more highly represented in non-traditional areas of the construction industry. Women are also findings ways as apprentices and tradespeople to position themselves within this new environment. They identify ways of working that are more likely to ensure a smooth experience for themselves. While the stimulus for the changing face of the workplace is the notion of gender equality, the responses are not gender neutral. All players are trying to negotiate ways to integrate each other into a new environment in a manner which allows them to comfortably reconcile issues of gender.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 697-705
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619021000024989
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619021000024989
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:697-705
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Low Sui Pheng
Author-X-Name-First: Low Sui
Author-X-Name-Last: Pheng
Author-Name: Tan Sui Ling Gracia
Author-X-Name-First: Tan Sui Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Gracia
Title: Relationship marketing: a survey of QS firms in Singapore
Abstract: In spite of the misperceptions of marketing in some quantity surveying (QS) firms, QS firms have generally embraced the general concepts of relationship marketing (RM) as part of their business strategy because relationships are considered to be important to a service-oriented business. However, this practice could be improved by adopting a more comprehensive approach to RM, such as the adoption of total relationship marketing (TRM) principles in their organizations. The focus of this study is to examine the perceptions and practices of RM of QS firms in the Singapore construction industry. Survey findings from 22 QS firms were examined in this study. The findings suggest that QS firms can focus on RM and TRM, with traditional marketing principles forming the basis of their marketing efforts.
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 707-721
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619022000014051
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619022000014051
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:707-721
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Book reviews
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 723-728
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/0144619022000035030
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/0144619022000035030
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:723-728
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Forthcoming events
Journal: Construction Management & Economics
Pages: 743-743
Issue: 8
Volume: 20
Year: 2002
X-DOI: 10.1080/014461902321114056
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/014461902321114056
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:20:y:2002:i:8:p:743-743
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martine Buser
Author-X-Name-First: Martine
Author-X-Name-Last: Buser
Author-Name: Veronica Carlsson
Author-X-Name-First: Veronica
Author-X-Name-Last: Carlsson
Title: What you see is not what you get: single-family house renovation and energy retrofit seen through the lens of sociomateriality
Abstract:
Representing 30% of the energy consumption in Sweden, the built environment is a clear contender for climate mitigation initiatives. The substantial stock of single-family houses presents ample opportunities to engage in energy-saving refurbishments. However, despite political pressure, only a minority of these refurbishments includes low-energy retrofit. To explain this slow take-off, studies have mostly focused on the necessity to better link new technical solutions with user needs and behaviours. We propose to extend this analysis to a broader set of actors including the craftsmen contracted to carry out the refurbishments and the houses themselves with their specific features and characteristics. To do so, we build our contribution on the concept of sociomateriality. This perspective argues that technological artefacts are socially constructed, but recognizes that materiality also has a role to play. Drawing on the experiences of 24 small craftsman firms, 8 houses as well as their owners, our method comprises interviews, workshops and participant observation complemented by an in-depth case study. The results show many differentiated representations of the renovation process under scrutiny. All these representations need to be understood and to a certain degree aligned in order to achieve successful retrofits.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 276-287
Issue: 5
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1250929
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1250929
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:5:p:276-287
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Edward Goh
Author-X-Name-First: Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Goh
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: The impacts of industrialization on construction subcontractors: a resource based view
Abstract:
Industrialization of the construction process is increasing around the world due to its potential to improve safety, sustainability, effectiveness, productivity and efficiency. While there has been research into the impacts of various forms of industrialized construction on the construction sector, surprisingly there has been little research into the impacts on subcontractors. The lack of subcontractor’s voice in the industrialization debate is important to address since they operate at the coalface of the industry where the impacts of such changes will have a significant impact. The resource based view of the firm (RBV) is used as a theoretical lens to study these potential impacts through interviews with senior executives and managers of six major subcontracting firms which have worked with off-site bathroom pod technologies in Australia. It is found that the key subcontractor resources affected by this off-site technology are human, financial, intellectual and social and that subcontractors will need to pursue strategies which develop new skills, knowledge, networks and deeper supply chain collaborations if they are to turn the potential risks associated with off-site into potential opportunities to achieve competitive advantage.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 288-304
Issue: 5
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1253856
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1253856
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:5:p:288-304
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Title: Promoting construction workers’ health: a multi-level system perspective
Abstract:
Construction workers suffer poor mental and physical health. To address this, organizations have implemented behavioural health promotion programmes. However, targeting workers’ lifestyle behaviour without addressing relevant environmental factors is unlikely to produce significant or sustained improvement. An ecological perspective offers a different way of understanding the determinants of health, reflecting the interplay of factors at multiple levels and the dynamic, reciprocal and non-linear relationships between them. Qualitative data collected during focus groups and in interviews with workers and managers were analysed to explore factors impacting the effectiveness of a health promotion programme implemented at two work sites in Queensland, Australia. A qualitative causal loop diagram identifying determinants of construction workers’ health behaviour was developed. The findings suggest that the adoption of healthy behaviours is influenced by factors operating at and between individual, family, workplace and industry levels. These factors suggest key leverage points that can be addressed in the design of future health promotion interventions for the construction industry. The research provides qualitative evidence of the need to consider workers’ health in a holistic way and develop multi-level strategies to produce improved health behaviour and outcomes in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 239-253
Issue: 5
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1274828
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1274828
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:5:p:239-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Valerie Francis
Author-X-Name-First: Valerie
Author-X-Name-Last: Francis
Title: What influences professional women’s career advancement in construction?
Abstract:
Research on professional women’s careers in the construction industry has focused on explanations for their under-achievement and the barriers they experience, many of which are outside their personal control. However, some women are progressing, so it is important to understand what facilitates this process. Using a theoretical framework, involving individual, interpersonal and organizational factors, a cross-sectional correlational field study involving 456 professional women investigated the effect of a range of variables on career advancement. Individual factors rather than interpersonal and organizational factors were found to have the greatest influence on women’s career progression. This finding, contrary to previous women in construction research, indicates a “contest”, rather than “sponsored”, career mobility path. The research contributes to the understanding of the career advancement of women, highlighting issues with previous research which has identified mentoring, networks and other organizational support mechanisms as valuable to women’s advancement. It provides evidence that promotional processes have a potential gender bias, and while networks, mentoring and other forms of organizational support do not assist women with promotion, they are a valuable deterrent to women’s departure from an industry struggling with low female participation and retention.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 254-275
Issue: 5
Volume: 35
Year: 2017
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1277026
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1277026
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:35:y:2017:i:5:p:254-275
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anders Pousette
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Pousette
Author-Name: Marianne Törner
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Törner
Title: Effects of systematic work preparation meetings on safety climate and psychosocial conditions in the construction industry
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of an intervention comprising education and support in performing frequent and structured work preparation meetings with broad participation. Such work preparation meetings were expected to have positive effects on safety climate by emphasizing the value of safety at the work site, and on perceived influence at work. The study was a longitudinal, matched before and after questionnaire study, with six construction sites within a large Swedish construction company, randomly assigned to the intervention or the comparison group. Contrary to expectations, the intervention group reported a decrease in safety climate, while this increased in the comparison group. Perceived influence at work showed a tendency to decrease at the interventions sites. Frequent work preparation meetings may provide ample opportunity for obtaining perceptual safety climate cues. But the effect is dependent on how these meetings are performed, and what priorities are conveyed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-365
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1189584
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1189584
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:355-365
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tara Brooks
Author-X-Name-First: Tara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooks
Author-Name: John Spillane
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Spillane
Author-Name: Paul Tansey
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Tansey
Author-Name: Caroline Hendron
Author-X-Name-First: Caroline
Author-X-Name-Last: Hendron
Title: The impact of the recent economic recession on the operation of the NEC contract in Northern Ireland
Abstract:
In May 2006, the New Engineering Contract (NEC) contract was introduced as the preferred contract for Northern Ireland public sector works. This was subsequently followed by the 2007 economic crash and ensuing recession, which continues to affect the Northern Ireland Construction Industry, to a greater extent than the remainder of the United Kingdom. However, use of the NEC contract has increased during this period, particularly in the public sector. There has been debate in the literature regarding the impact of the NEC contract on adversarial behaviour, but little consideration of the impact of external economic factors on the use of the NEC contract. Using a sequential mixed method approach, the study aims to fill this gap in knowledge through examination of the impact the economic downturn has had on the operation of the NEC contract in Northern Ireland. Qualitative and quantitative findings show that the demands placed by the NEC contract, and the effects of the economic recession, have exerted opposing forces on contract implementation, thus hindering its execution. The findings can lead to a deeper understanding, in the context of both industry and academia, of situations where a lack of resources may negatively impact the operation of the NEC contract.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 393-417
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1194522
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1194522
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:393-417
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Corrigendum
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 432-432
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1197500
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1197500
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:432-432
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abigail Robson
Author-X-Name-First: Abigail
Author-X-Name-Last: Robson
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Author-Name: Niraj Thurairajah
Author-X-Name-First: Niraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Thurairajah
Title: Studying ‘cost as information’ to account for construction improvements
Abstract:
Contractors throughout the construction supply chain develop and use cost information. By treating ‘cost as information’, insights are generated into how cost information is created and flows from work carried out to a client cost. A case study of a main contractor’s supply chain involved semi-structured interviews, workshops and document reviews. We considered whether contractors’ current costing practices used for the purpose of pricing and cost control could support decision-making about improvements through the supply chain. The results show that firms recognize that current costing practices do not provide a good representation of work carried out. Cost information that is useful in a narrative that seeks to improve site operations is either not created or hidden in layers of assumptions and lost as it does not cross the boundaries between organizations. This implies that the implementation of current practices of costing in building information modelling will not increase the effectiveness of modelling construction costs for the purpose of improvements. However, cost information that is useful in decision-making about improvements could be created. This could be achieved but requires a systemic change, where new representations of cost are tied to work processes used within more stable procurement relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 418-431
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200734
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200734
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:418-431
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ruwini Edirisinghe
Author-X-Name-First: Ruwini
Author-X-Name-Last: Edirisinghe
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Exploring the potential for the use of video to communicate safety information to construction workers: case studies of organizational use
Abstract:
Legislation requires employers to provide health and safety (H&S) training to workers and communicate safety rules, policies and procedures to them in a way they understand. As the construction industry has an increasingly multicultural and multilingual workforce, conventional written and verbal safety communication is of limited effectiveness. CodeSafe Solutions, has developed an innovative method of communicating H&S information to field-based workers using digital media. The potential of the system was explored and two organizations in the Australian construction industry were used. Qualitative data from in-depth interviews of safety managers and workers involved in system implementation and quantitative data such as incident reports and video usage were analysed. Managers perceived the CodeSafe system to be beneficial and well received by workers. In one organization, the introduction of the CodeSafe system coincided with a reduction in injury rates. However, causal inferences about the impact of the system cannot be made. Workers involved in making the films believed films would be an effective communication tool. However, barriers to implementation of the technology include workers’ reluctance to use personal smart phones, limited internet connectivity, and organizational and national regulations on mobile phone use on construction sites.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 366-376
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200736
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200736
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:366-376
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Work–life fit: identification of demand and resource typologies within a systems framework
Abstract:
Work–life fit occurs when people have the resources required to meet demands such that role performance (both at work and in non-work life domains) is effective. Interviews were conducted with 59 construction workers based in Melbourne, Australia to explore how demands and resources were experienced. Using a systems framework, data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results identified two demand typologies associated with demand-to-demand interaction. Demands operating as ‘influencers’ have a major impact on the conditions of the interdependent demand, while demands operating as ‘creators’ generate a new demand and shape the conditions of that demand. One resource typology related to resource–demand interaction was identified. ‘Enabling resources’ enable an individual to manage multiple demands across multiple domains, and may also enable an individual to manage multiple demands within a single domain. A new conceptual contribution is made to an area in which theory is under-developed, by adopting a systems approach to understanding the dynamic interactions between demands and resources. A lack of fit is damaging for the individual; therefore, it is useful to know that demands and resources are interdependent and these interdependencies will vary according to individuals. Using a systems approach to understanding demands and resources will be helpful to organizations seeking to support workers to achieve optimal work–life fit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 377-392
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1200737
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1200737
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:377-392
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 353-354
Issue: 6
Volume: 34
Year: 2016
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2016.1204800
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2016.1204800
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:34:y:2016:i:6:p:353-354
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Timur Narbaev
Author-X-Name-First: Timur
Author-X-Name-Last: Narbaev
Author-Name: Alberto De Marco
Author-X-Name-First: Alberto
Author-X-Name-Last: De Marco
Author-Name: Nurlan Orazalin
Author-X-Name-First: Nurlan
Author-X-Name-Last: Orazalin
Title: A multi-disciplinary meta-review of the public–private partnerships research
Abstract:
Public-private partnerships (PPP) research is very diverse. This field of research covers different topics across multiple disciplines and is disseminated in many journals. This has led to numerous review studies with a single discipline focus that apply mostly subjective or descriptive analyses. With the purpose of providing an integrated overview of all the disciplines that involve PPP and uncovering connections between these, this research provides an extensive PPP literature meta-review that uses objective bibliometric measures on 1970 articles from 773 journals. The methodology involves ranking journals, identifying topical trends over 1989–2018, and clustering the literature to create a PPP knowledge map with associated research domains. The findings reaffirm that PPP is not only a multi-disciplinary research area but also a self-contained meta-discipline that integrates some allied disciplines with their foundational theories. The PPP meta-discipline is largely dominated by Construction Management and Economics (CME), Public Administration and Management, and Transportation Research disciplines, and integrates emerging topics such as sustainability, governance and stakeholders management. This study contributes to the CME scholarly community as it offers the first comprehensive meta-analysis of PPP literature and helps understanding PPP under the lens of a multi-disciplinary perspective.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-125
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1643033
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1643033
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:109-125
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wang Pu
Author-X-Name-First: Wang
Author-X-Name-Last: Pu
Author-Name: Fei Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Fei
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Author-Name: Ruoxun Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Ruoxun
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Rui Cunha Marques
Author-X-Name-First: Rui Cunha
Author-X-Name-Last: Marques
Title: PPP project procurement model selection in China: does it matter?
Abstract:
Procurement models play a key role in determining the success of a public–private–partnership (PPP) project because they can help the government select the best bidder. Yet, few studies have systematically examined the selection of different procurement models. A content analysis is performed to discuss the institutional and legal framework along with the features of different procurement models in China. A multinomial logistic regression model is then applied to empirically investigate the relationship between the selection of different procurement models and the internal characteristics of the projects, including the investment, duration, operation mode, sector and region. Besides, a questionnaire survey to Chinese officials participating in PPP project procurement is conducted to identify the critical factors affecting the selection preferences. The regression analysis shows that the PPP project procurement model selection in China varies significantly with the internal characteristics of the projects. Moreover, the three most important factors identified are the laws and regulations, internal characteristics of the projects and advice from consultant agencies. These results indicate that the PPP project procurement model selection in China does matter. Helpful policy suggestions for the governments of China and other countries are also provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 126-139
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1596291
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1596291
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:126-139
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nunzia Carbonara
Author-X-Name-First: Nunzia
Author-X-Name-Last: Carbonara
Author-Name: Roberta Pellegrino
Author-X-Name-First: Roberta
Author-X-Name-Last: Pellegrino
Title: The role of public private partnerships in fostering innovation
Abstract:
Despite the prevailing view in the studies on public private partnerships (PPPs) on the potentiality of PPP models for stimulating innovation, existing studies fail to provide a full understating of the relationship between PPP characteristics and innovation, namely they do not explain whether and to what extent some characteristics of PPP are more likely to foster innovation rather than others. This paper aims at providing answers to the following key research questions: Which are the PPP features that favour innovation? How should a PPP be properly structured in order to foster innovation? With this aim, drawing upon the main streams of studies on innovation, we develop a conceptual framework on the relationship between PPP and innovation and formulate the research hypotheses. An econometric analysis is then applied to empirically test the hypotheses using a dataset of 290 PPP projects spanning different countries and sectors, extracted by the World Bank PPI Database. Findings reveal that the arrangement of PPP projects; the market, contract and network structure, as well as government supports, may affect innovation. These results provide foundations to elaborate managerial implications for the future implementation of PPP projects, showing how PPP features have to be structured in order to foster innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 140-156
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1610184
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1610184
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:140-156
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nastaran Tavakoli
Author-X-Name-First: Nastaran
Author-X-Name-Last: Tavakoli
Author-Name: Seyed Hossein Hosseini Nourzad
Author-X-Name-First: Seyed Hossein
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosseini Nourzad
Title: Win-win pricing method for BOT projects using a simulation-based evolutionary optimization
Abstract:
Several failures have been reported in maintaining the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) projects viability through their life cycle. BOT contracts are one of the popular tools to respond to fund deficiencies in infrastructure projects, thus it is crucial to determine optimum concession terms for them. In previous research, the value of social benefits has mostly been neglected in the decision-making process, which results in unfair distribution of benefits between the government and the concessionaire. Therefore, a pricing framework based on a Simulation Multi-Objective Optimization (SMOO) method is developed in this research which includes the value of social benefits as well as the effects of uncertainties in BOT projects. The application of the model to a real-world project confirms that it presents a win-win solution in which the benefits of the two contracting parties are simultaneously maximized compared to the results obtained by using conventional methods. The results confirm the contribution of this research to reach a consensus on concession price and to keep the project viability as a result of its ability to cope with the high volatilities through simulation techniques. Furthermore, it can help the decision-makers to either seek a balance between both sides’ interests or determine the concession price based on their preferential strategies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 157-171
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1657234
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1657234
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:157-171
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jeroen van der Meer
Author-X-Name-First: Jeroen
Author-X-Name-Last: van der Meer
Author-Name: Andreas Hartmann
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartmann
Author-Name: Aad van der Horst
Author-X-Name-First: Aad
Author-X-Name-Last: van der Horst
Author-Name: Geert Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Title: Multi-criteria decision analysis and quality of design decisions in infrastructure tenders: a contractor’s perspective
Abstract:
Design decision-making in infrastructure tenders is a challenging task for contractors due to limited time and resources. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) promises to support contractors in dealing with this challenge. However, the ability of MCDA to ensure decision quality in the specific context of infrastructure tenders has gained little attention. By undertaking a longitudinal case study on early design decisions in a tender for a design-build project in the Netherlands the relationship between MCDA and decision quality is investigated. The case results show that in the early tender phase the decision making very much relies on the experience and knowledge of engineers. If MCDA is inappropriately used in such a context it can create impressions of soundly underpinned evaluations of design options while neglecting uncertainties and leading to low-quality decision. Although MCDA defines the “what” is required for structuring the decision problem, it does not support decision-makers in the “how” to do it. The explicit consideration of decision quality elements in MCDA can support the “how” and can create awareness for decision makers concerning importance, scope and uncertainty of criteria.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 172-188
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1577559
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1577559
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:172-188
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ayirebi Dansoh
Author-X-Name-First: Ayirebi
Author-X-Name-Last: Dansoh
Author-Name: Samuel Frimpong
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Frimpong
Author-Name: Goodenough Dennis Oppong
Author-X-Name-First: Goodenough Dennis
Author-X-Name-Last: Oppong
Title: Exploring the dimensions of traditional authority influencing stakeholder management at the pre-construction stage of infrastructure projects
Abstract:
In many parts of the world, traditional authorities influence the pre-construction stakeholder management process on infrastructure projects. In this conceptual article, we sought to explore the dimensions of traditional authority that influence stakeholder management at the pre-construction stage, using the case of Ghana. Twenty-nine different issues related to traditional authority were identified through a systematic literature review. Then, through a narrative focus group discussion, the issues were validated, revised and condensed into 21 items. Through thematic analysis, the issues were clustered into four dimensions of traditional authority influences: power and role of traditional leadership; expectations of traditional leadership; project impacts on community resources; and impact of religious and cultural values. Through a further abstraction of the results, we identified six patterns of influence that emerge from the interaction between traditional authorities and other stakeholders, viz.: compromise; uncertainty; instability; power and role suppression; acculturation; and polarization. The findings provide a starting point for theorizing the influence of traditional authority on pre-construction stakeholder management. The findings also provide project managers with information for the development of practical strategies for managing the influence of traditional authorities to ensure an effective stakeholder management process at the pre-construction stage of infrastructure projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 189-206
Issue: 2
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1589647
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1589647
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:2:p:189-206
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Satish Kumar Viswanathan
Author-X-Name-First: Satish Kumar
Author-X-Name-Last: Viswanathan
Author-Name: Kamalendra Kumar Tripathi
Author-X-Name-First: Kamalendra Kumar
Author-X-Name-Last: Tripathi
Author-Name: Kumar Neeraj Jha
Author-X-Name-First: Kumar Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Jha
Title: Influence of risk mitigation measures on international construction project success criteria – a survey of Indian experiences
Abstract:
Despite globalisation bringing diverse opportunities for construction firms from developing countries, executing international construction projects entails many risks. Several past studies illustrate the risks faced by firms in international construction projects and recommend various risk mitigation measures without revealing their effect on project success criteria. In order to fill this knowledge gap, this study aims to test the influence of identified risk mitigation measures on project success criteria. To achieve this, nine risk mitigation measures and three project success criteria—cost performance, schedule performance and firm’s performance—were identified through a literature review. After verifying the identified risk mitigation measures and project success criteria with a preliminary study, a questionnaire was administered to experts who possess adequate knowledge in international construction projects. The collected data from 105 questionnaires were analyzed, grouped and modelled using factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM). Application of factor analysis to identify the correlated risk mitigation measures extracted three risk mitigation factors, namely pre-project planning, local participation and contract selection. Furthermore, the influence of risk mitigation factors on project success criteria is hypothesized and tested using SEM. Amongst the identified risk mitigation factors, local participation emerges as the most influencing factor on project success criteria followed by contract selection and pre-project planning. The generated model would enable construction firms from India and similar developing countries to focus on identified risk mitigation factors to achieve improved project success criteria and project management success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-222
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1577987
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1577987
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:207-222
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: K. Chandrashekhar Iyer
Author-X-Name-First: K. Chandrashekhar
Author-X-Name-Last: Iyer
Author-Name: Ratnesh Kumar
Author-X-Name-First: Ratnesh
Author-X-Name-Last: Kumar
Author-Name: Surya Prakash Singh
Author-X-Name-First: Surya Prakash
Author-X-Name-Last: Singh
Title: Understanding the role of contractor capability in risk management: a comparative case study of two similar projects
Abstract:
In the construction industry, contractor prequalification is used for measuring contractor capability and selecting capable contractors for the successful execution of projects. Research emphasizes that contractor capability and risk management are critical for project success and have a correlation. However, observations suggest that risks are not considered during prequalification and even prequalified contractors perform poorly causing project failures. Such observations indicate a research gap for which this research explores the role of contractor capability in risk management at the project level. The analysis uses a comparative case study of risk management in two similar ongoing projects having different contractors. It reveals that the contractor capability assessed during prequalification is an attribute of an organization; while the capability required to mitigate risks and execute work is an attribute of a project. When risks materialize, the capability of a contractor may reduce and the capability required to mitigate risks in a project may increase. This will create a deficit of resources resulting in poor performance by the contractor. Therefore, criteria for prequalification must be decided considering risks scenarios for projects and contractors to screen out marginally qualified contractors and increase chances of project success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 223-238
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1590614
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1590614
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:223-238
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thaís da C. L. Alves
Author-X-Name-First: Thaís da C. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Alves
Author-Name: Yoshua Neuman
Author-X-Name-First: Yoshua
Author-X-Name-Last: Neuman
Author-Name: Kenneth D. Walsh
Author-X-Name-First: Kenneth D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Walsh
Author-Name: Kim LaScola Needy
Author-X-Name-First: Kim LaScola
Author-X-Name-Last: Needy
Author-Name: Rufaidah AlMaian
Author-X-Name-First: Rufaidah
Author-X-Name-Last: AlMaian
Title: Highly effective companies in supplier quality surveillance practices: a quantitative analysis
Abstract:
Results presented are part of a larger mixed-mode study on supplier quality practices focusing on the cross-analysis of interviews, focus groups, and a questionnaire, which collected actual data about timing, costs, practices, and non-conformances associated with purchase orders (POs) from Engineering Procure and Construct (EPC) projects for four material types considered relevant to projects built by EPC contractors based in the United States. The present discussion specifically focuses on the analysis of the non-parametric dataset obtained from the POs to investigate a subset of companies labelled as highly effective companies (HECs). This contribution is unique as it used a mixed-mode approach to collect data beyond construction sites and investigate the product/supplier side of construction processes to advance knowledge of how materials can be sent to construction project sites free of defects and rework and indicates practices that contribute to this goal. When compared to other companies in the dataset, HECs engage in more hours of observation in suppliers’ facilities, communicate more often with suppliers, put more effort and time in the planning stages of the project, use more practices related to supplier quality surveillance and supplier quality management, and find non-conformances earlier in the project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 239-258
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1590613
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1590613
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:239-258
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Espinoza
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Espinoza
Author-Name: Javier Rojo
Author-X-Name-First: Javier
Author-X-Name-Last: Rojo
Author-Name: Arturo Cifuentes
Author-X-Name-First: Arturo
Author-X-Name-Last: Cifuentes
Author-Name: Jeremy Morris
Author-X-Name-First: Jeremy
Author-X-Name-Last: Morris
Title: DNPV: a valuation methodology for infrastructure and Capital investments consistent with prospect theory
Abstract:
Traditional valuation methods such as net present value (NPV) utilize increased discount rates to account for risk, in the process introducing a time bias effect that promotes short-termism. Application of NPV often discourages much needed infrastructure projects that require large capital investments yet are slow to generate positive cashflows. NPV also downplays the significance of future liabilities and can lead to risk misallocation amongst investment partners and stakeholders. The decoupled net present value (DNPV) method introduces the risk-as-a-cost concept that prices the risk of obtaining lower-than-expected cashflows and thus represents investors’ compensation for bearing such risks. Capturing the loss-aversion attitudes described by prospect theory, DNPV provides a transparent and consistent valuation framework for long-term investments by: (i) calculating expected values of cashflow components using their probability characterizations, (ii) defining the cost of risk (market and non-market) as the expected downside value, (iii) subtracting/adding the cost of risk from/to expected revenues/expenditures, and (iv) discounting the results using risk-free rates. DNPV’s power is illustrated by re-analyzing a 42-year toll-road concession initially evaluated using NPV and real options. The case study shows how explicit risk quantifications could be used to better structure the concession and reallocate risks among stakeholders.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 259-274
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1648842
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1648842
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:259-274
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sidar Çınar
Author-X-Name-First: Sidar
Author-X-Name-Last: Çınar
Title: Construction labour, subcontracting and masculinity: “construction is a man’s job”
Abstract:
This study examines how construction workers construct their male identity on the basis of their job requirements. A qualitative field research comprising in-depth interviews was conducted with 32 construction workers in Diyarbakır to examine subcontracting in Turkey’s construction sector. The findings show that by defining construction labour in terms of physical capacity, an outcome of the labour conditions shaped by the practice of subcontracting, construction work have become naturalised as a man’s job. The findings also illustrate how construction produces different masculinities that intersect with the understanding of working class shaped by the role of men being the head of the family rather than a single notion of manhood shaped by physical working conditions. Nevertheless, the male worker culture that feeds off different masculinities still retains the power to dominate and exclude women as workers from the construction site, e.g. through means of sexual harassment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 275-290
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1690155
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1690155
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:275-290
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yasuhiro Kotera
Author-X-Name-First: Yasuhiro
Author-X-Name-Last: Kotera
Author-Name: Pauline Green
Author-X-Name-First: Pauline
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Author-Name: David Sheffield
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Sheffield
Title: Work-life balance of UK construction workers: relationship with mental health
Abstract:
Although the importance of work-life balance (WLB) is related to occupational psychological outcomes in many countries and industries, these relationships have not been explored in UK construction industry, a major sector of the UK economy. This workforce suffers from high rates of mental health problems and low help-seeking. Accordingly, the purposes of this study were to explore relationships between WLB, mental health, attitudes towards mental health problems, along with work schedules. One hundred and forty-four UK workers in the construction industry completed measures of those three constructs. WLB was negatively associated with mental health problems and mental health attitudes. Mental health attitudes did not mediate the relationship between WLB and mental health problems with a small effect size. WLB was the strongest predictor of mental health problems. Mental health problems scores differed by work pattern groups; day time workers had poorer mental health than mixed workers. Findings will help UK construction workers, employers, and organizational researchers deepen their understanding of WLB and identify better solutions to poor WLB and mental health.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 291-303
Issue: 3
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1625417
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1625417
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:3:p:291-303
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Author-Name: Ashwin Mahalingam
Author-X-Name-First: Ashwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahalingam
Author-Name: John E. Taylor
Author-X-Name-First: John E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Taylor
Title: Ray Levitt: professor, practitioner and pathfinder
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 305-307
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1730922
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1730922
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:305-307
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Matthew R. Hallowell
Author-X-Name-First: Matthew R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallowell
Author-Name: Siddharth Bhandari
Author-X-Name-First: Siddharth
Author-X-Name-Last: Bhandari
Author-Name: Wael Alruqi
Author-X-Name-First: Wael
Author-X-Name-Last: Alruqi
Title: Methods of safety prediction: analysis and integration of risk assessment, leading indicators, precursor analysis, and safety climate
Abstract:
Construction safety prediction is an emerging field where various forms of information and analytical techniques are used to predict the likelihood or severity of a future injury. A review of this literature reveals that even though the approaches are used for the same goal of predicting future safety outcomes, they are modeled independently and exclusively from one another. To organize thinking in safety prediction, the literature is organized into four operationally-defined predictive families: (1) safety risk assessment, which considers the characteristics and dangers of the work; (2) precursor analysis, which considers the conditions of the workers; (3) leading indicators, which consider the quantity of safety management activities; and (4) safety climate assessments, which considers worker perceptions of safety. Additionally, a unified model is proposed where the four families are considered together and opportunities for synergy and cross-validation are exploited. Researchers may benefit from this model as they create points of departure, propose and test novel approaches, and attempt to contextualize their findings within the existing body of literature. Furthermore, practitioners may use the model to make more accurate and robust safety predictions that account for the interconnectedness of the work attributes, human resources, and management strategies that affect safety.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 308-321
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1598566
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1598566
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:308-321
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel M. Hall
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hall
Author-Name: Jennifer K. Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Author-Name: Jerker Lessing
Author-X-Name-First: Jerker
Author-X-Name-Last: Lessing
Title: Mirror-breaking strategies to enable digital manufacturing in Silicon Valley construction firms: a comparative case study
Abstract:
In construction, the mirroring of knowledge with tasks increasingly limits firm-level abilities to identify and pursue systemic innovation opportunities. Recent research identifies how integration strategies enable individual projects to break from this trap, but much less is known about potential strategic action of firms to enable systemic innovation. To explore this, a longitudinal comparative case study examines how three entrepreneurial firms – DPR construction, RAD Urban, and Project Frog – in the San Francisco Bay Area describe their own strategic evolution and restructuring of firm boundaries over the past five years to enable greater adoption of digital manufacturing. Each firm has developed a different approach – relational, project-based spinoff; vertical integration; or digital systems integration. Benefits and challenges are identified for each. The approaches are theorized as a form of strategic mirror-breaking intended to redefine the current paradigm of knowledge and task dependencies. They enable the firms to develop products with new system architectures and access more opportunities for innovation in digitally-enabled manufacturing. The paper concludes with discussion of how the identification and characterization of strategies for mirror-breaking enriches understanding of integration for systemic innovation in construction at the firm level. The paper identifies common themes for digitally-enabled manufacturing including the limitations of the current industry structure, the emergence of new hybrid positions, and the opportunity for platforms to provide longitudinal integration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 322-339
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1656814
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1656814
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:322-339
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Iris D. Tommelein
Author-X-Name-First: Iris D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tommelein
Title: Design science research in construction management: multi-disciplinary collaboration on the SightPlan system
Abstract:
As a tribute to Ray Levitt’s early computer science contributions, this paper presents the research methodology he and I in close collaboration with Barbara Hayes-Roth followed to develop the SightPlan system. This research methodology falls under the umbrella of what is known as “design science.” Design science concerns itself with designing and making artefacts to fulfil a purpose, and then testing and validating that they indeed are fit-for-purpose. Design science does not belong in the category of physical science or of fundamental science; instead, it falls in the category of the sciences of the artificial. This paper describes the methodological steps pursued in design science and in parallel illustrates how these steps were instantiated and what artefacts were produced in the course of developing the SightPlan system, a blackboard expert system that lays out temporary facilities on construction sites. The aims of this paper are to recognise Ray’s work as an advisor and researcher, reflect on and promote the use of design science in construction management and economics and thereby participate in the ongoing discussion on research methods in this journal, and illustrate to scholars in this field that research is an opportunistic endeavour.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 340-354
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1718723
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1718723
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:340-354
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John Kunz
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Kunz
Author-Name: Martin Fischer
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Fischer
Title: Virtual design and construction
Abstract:
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is the use of integrated multi-disciplinary performance models of design-construction projects to support explicit and public business objectives. Professor Levitt’s Virtual Design Team (VDT) project provided a fundamental point of departure of this work: the organisation model provides a central theoretical and practical element in the VDC framework. VDC models are virtual because they are computer-based descriptions of the project. This paper summarises the VDC framework that integrates an organisation perspective with perspectives that are implicit in VDT, including 3D Building Information Model (BIM) product models of a product to be designed, built and operated – typically a physical facility – management by objectives, Lean production management and the social method of Integrated Concurrent Engineering (ICE). Thus, VDC project models emphasise those aspects of the project that can be designed and managed, i.e., the product (typically a building or plant facility), the organisation that will define, design, construct and operate it, and the process that the organisation teams will follow. Many companies and hundreds of professionals now use VDC methods, and they consistently find that they improve project and business performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 355-363
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1714068
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1714068
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:355-363
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahesh Balasubramani
Author-X-Name-First: Mahesh
Author-X-Name-Last: Balasubramani
Author-Name: Ashwin Mahalingam
Author-X-Name-First: Ashwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahalingam
Author-Name: W. Richard Scott
Author-X-Name-First: W. Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott
Title: Imitation and adaptation: lessons from a case study of a metro rail project in India
Abstract:
Oversight arrangements which articulate technical, contractual and organizational decisions in a project domain constitute project governance. In the light of rapid globalization and an increasing number of complex, pluralistic and heterogeneous projects, the need for contingent project governance arrangements which bridge both stability and temporality of project decisions is emphasized in the literature. Nevertheless, inadequate attention has been paid to study how these governance arrangements are actually set up on contemporary projects. We use a combination of institutions-based and practice-based lenses to develop arguments on how governance arrangements are initially selected and replicated or revised, thereby leading to the emergence of order in project governance structures. We gather empirical evidence by qualitatively studying the shaping of project governance structures in a metro rail project in India. Our data show how the project promoters drew from the Delhi Metro’s governance structures to make technical, contractual and organizational decisions in the Chennai Metro, and then contested or stabilized these structures within the project field through situated interactions. Consequently, we identify 11 underlying mechanisms of sustenance and change of governance arrangements and project norms. By bridging both generic and contextual governance perspectives, the study underlines the role of situated “governing” in (re)creating governance structures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 364-382
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1619932
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1619932
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:364-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Geert Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Author-Name: Michael J. Garvin
Author-X-Name-First: Michael J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Garvin
Title: Responsive governance in PPP projects to manage uncertainty
Abstract:
Despite the awareness that uncertainty impacts projects with long time horizons, public-private partnership (PPP) research has not extensively examined the operations phase of such projects where interactions between public and private counterparties will be frequent and long-term while subject to a changing environment. Accordingly, two distinct but related investigations examining how governance strategies can address uncertainty in PPP projects are presented. The first identified contractual mechanisms for risk sharing formed during the shaping phase of a broad set of PPP projects; a majority of these mechanisms were strategically designed to address risks as they unfold so counterparty project managers can rely on current information and circumstances during risk resolution. The second explored the emergence of relational mechanisms over time, which revealed that project managers had to consistently adjust established relational approaches to respond to unforeseen events in PPPs. The findings of both studies illustrate the necessity for responsiveness and complementarity of contractual and relational mechanisms in PPPs. Further, the mechanisms uncovered demand project management agility and flexibility as well as improved relational strategies, which is aligned with the emphasis on learning and adaptation in the broader, contemporary project management literature. Consequently, principles from project management 2.0 such as empowering competent project managers and shared global awareness are likely to enhance responsive PPP governance and warrant further exploration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-397
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1618478
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1618478
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:383-397
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul S. Chinowsky
Author-X-Name-First: Paul S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chinowsky
Author-Name: Amy Javernick-Will
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Javernick-Will
Title: High-value, collaborative networks
Abstract:
Networks that generate collaboration and innovative ideas on a regular basis are characterized in this paper as high-value, collaborative networks. The initiation and development of these networks outside of the confines of a formal organization is analyzed in the context of the Engineering Project Organization Society (EPOS). The society, initiated by Professor Raymond Levitt, has existed for 15 years and continues to grow while retaining a core group of founding members. We conducted and analyzed interviews with society members to develop a framework that describes how individuals can form a core with sufficient pull to enable a network to form, stabilize and grow. The framework provides a perspective on how networks sustain through its individual members, the environment in which the network exists, and the rewards individuals obtain from being part of the network. Each of these elements by itself is insufficient to develop network stability; rather, it is the combination of a stable network core and continuous reinforcement of value from the network that serves to preserve and expand network membership. The development of the framework will benefit both academic and professional contexts by highlighting the key elements required to introduce and sustain a dynamic knowledge network.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 398-408
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1607513
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1607513
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:398-408
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raymond E. Levitt
Author-X-Name-First: Raymond E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Levitt
Title: Rejoinder to the Festschrift
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 409-411
Issue: 4
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1729490
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1729490
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:4:p:409-411
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ghang Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Ghang
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: André Borrmann
Author-X-Name-First: André
Author-X-Name-Last: Borrmann
Title: BIM policy and management
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 413-419
Issue: 5
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1726979
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1726979
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:5:p:413-419
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ajibade A. Aibinu
Author-X-Name-First: Ajibade A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Aibinu
Author-Name: Eleni Papadonikolaki
Author-X-Name-First: Eleni
Author-X-Name-Last: Papadonikolaki
Title: Conceptualizing and operationalizing team task interdependences: BIM implementation assessment using effort distribution analytics
Abstract:
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a technological innovation currently at the forefront of digital transformation in the built environment. To achieve satisfactory outcomes with BIM, adopters need to find the most appropriate implementation strategy that is economically efficient. The research discussed here explores why and how distribution of effort spent on various tasks over project life cycle can be used as a metric for assessing and improving the performance of BIM implementation. Using quantitative data collected from a single in-depth case study of a BIM-enabled design and build project and subsequent interviews with three project actors and 11 BIM experts, to validate and triangulate the findings, we explore the use of effort data to analyze and visualize effort distribution patterns. The visualizations revealed the dynamics of team collaboration and task interdependences in BIM-enabled work and their impact on effort distribution. Lack of timely input by the contractor, subcontractors and suppliers influenced unusual patterns in the distribution of efforts indicating potential sources of inefficiency and unnecessary costs in the BIM process; thereby revealing the pivotal role of procurement structure and suggesting the need for timely involvement of key project participants. The contribution of this work is twofold. Methodologically, effort distribution analytics can provide insights that managers can use to improve BIM implementation process. Theoretically, the findings can be used to support informed decision-making, control cost, optimize resources, manage cash flow and to structure fees.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 420-446
Issue: 5
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1623409
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1623409
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:5:p:420-446
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Adeyemi Akintola
Author-X-Name-First: Adeyemi
Author-X-Name-Last: Akintola
Author-Name: Senthilkumar Venkatachalam
Author-X-Name-First: Senthilkumar
Author-X-Name-Last: Venkatachalam
Author-Name: David Root
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Root
Title: Understanding BIM’s impact on professional work practices using activity theory
Abstract:
Recent critiques of the BIM literature describe it as largely devoid of critical theoretical perspectives and theorization capable of explaining the nature of change in work practices in a holistic manner. In response, the authors argue that, from a theoretical standpoint, implementing BIM within professional work practices (as activity systems) induces their evolution through dysfunctions created within the systems and their resolution. Cases of professional organizations in South Africa that have implemented BIM within their organization and in multi-organizational projects helped to develop new theoretical insights into how professional work practices evolve using activity theory-based re-description of the data. Changes in professional work practices were analyzed sequentially within the framework, confirming theoretical propositions and revealing the dynamics between and within the interconnected system of actors, their object, tools, rules guiding work, roles they assume and the stakeholders. Essentially, the findings imply that the implementation of BIM significantly changes work practices within organizations, but gradually and over time. This supports an evolutionary, rather than a radical or revolutionary, view of BIM-induced change. This theoretical perspective could explain future dimensions of change in professional work practices involving BIM, and indeed similar work mediating tools.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 447-467
Issue: 5
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2018.1559338
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2018.1559338
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:5:p:447-467
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hannes Lindblad
Author-X-Name-First: Hannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindblad
Author-Name: Jacob Rudolphsson Guerrero
Author-X-Name-First: Jacob Rudolphsson
Author-X-Name-Last: Guerrero
Title: Client’s role in promoting BIM implementation and innovation in construction
Abstract:
Innovation is often viewed as vital in addressing future demands on the construction industry, but innovation implementation is also considered challenging in this fragmented, project-based industry. In order to address the challenges, client organisations are commonly acknowledged as key actors in driving construction innovation. However, the details of what the client role constitutes is less clear, and the question of whether innovation should be mainly client-led or supplier-led is debated. The purpose in this paper is to explore different roles public client organisations can enact to promote innovation. To fulfil this purpose, an explorative case study has been conducted at the largest transport infrastructure client in Sweden; exploring two initiatives which have simultaneously been deployed to promote innovation. The studied organisation is on the one hand trying to influence the industry to implement Building Information Modelling (BIM), adopting a BIM policy and actively influencing the supply chain, while on the other hand promoting innovation through policies aimed at providing more flexibility in projects, enabling suppliers to propose new solutions and emphasising market competition. Even though the overarching goals are similar, promote innovation, the research finds that the simultaneous use of the policies create intra-organisational tension within the client organisation. The findings provide insights into the different roles clients can enact in promoting innovation, and contribute to the understanding of clients as a key actor for promoting innovation in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 468-482
Issue: 5
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1716989
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1716989
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:5:p:468-482
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dale Steinhardt
Author-X-Name-First: Dale
Author-X-Name-Last: Steinhardt
Author-Name: Karen Manley
Author-X-Name-First: Karen
Author-X-Name-Last: Manley
Author-Name: Louise Bildsten
Author-X-Name-First: Louise
Author-X-Name-Last: Bildsten
Author-Name: Kristian Widen
Author-X-Name-First: Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Widen
Title: The structure of emergent prefabricated housing industries: a comparative case study of Australia and Sweden
Abstract:
Prefabricated housing is a disruptive innovation struggling to take hold in a traditional complex product system (CoPS). It is quicker to produce and has improved environmental performance compared to traditional housing. CoPS have more dense and complex network connections than commodity industries, making disruptive innovation more difficult. Effective relational capabilities can achieve the coordination necessary to address this challenge. The prefabricated housing industry needs to develop a structure that drives these capabilities. Using a case study methodology, the structure of the industry is examined in two contrasting countries, namely Australia and Sweden, as they represent an early and late stage of industry emergence, respectively. A new framework is proposed for this purpose, enabling a repeatable, orderly and comprehensive disaggregation of industry structure to examine the latent drivers of relational capability. The main empirical contribution is to (1) describe an industry that is yet to be formally recognized by national statistical agencies and (2) show how the adoption of prefabricated housing can be accelerated. The study found that younger industries need a focused industry association with diverse membership to act as an effective system integrator.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 483-501
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1588464
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1588464
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:483-501
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mehrdad Arashpour
Author-X-Name-First: Mehrdad
Author-X-Name-Last: Arashpour
Author-Name: Amin Heidarpour
Author-X-Name-First: Amin
Author-X-Name-Last: Heidarpour
Author-Name: Ali Akbar Nezhad
Author-X-Name-First: Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Akbar Nezhad
Author-Name: Zahra Hosseinifard
Author-X-Name-First: Zahra
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosseinifard
Author-Name: Nicholas Chileshe
Author-X-Name-First: Nicholas
Author-X-Name-Last: Chileshe
Author-Name: Reza Hosseini
Author-X-Name-First: Reza
Author-X-Name-Last: Hosseini
Title: Performance-based control of variability and tolerance in off-site manufacture and assembly: optimization of penalty on poor production quality
Abstract:
Defects and quality problems in off-site manufacturing of building parts are caused by different variables. Subsequently, rework is required during on-site subassembly aggregation. Rework and tampering with prefabricated parts has implications including suboptimal structural/non-structural performance, delays and increased costs. Currently there is a gap in the off-site construction literature in developing effective interventions to reflect on variability in operations of subassembly manufacturers. On this basis, and in the first step of the current research, point clouds of the as-built status of parts are generated by laser scanners and compared with the as-designed status represented by Building Information models (BIM). Then, optimization modelling is used for development of a balanced penalty and incentive (PI) scheme to minimize variability. For this purpose, total expenditure on variability reduction is offset by revenues generated from penalties on poor quality. This optimization-based research contributes to the off-site construction literature by providing cost-effective solutions to quality problems. Furthermore, models and findings are of practical importance to off-site manufacturers by encouraging precision and discouraging discrepancy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 502-514
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1616789
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1616789
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:502-514
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Abbas Hassan
Author-X-Name-First: Abbas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hassan
Author-Name: Khaled El-Rayes
Author-X-Name-First: Khaled
Author-X-Name-Last: El-Rayes
Title: Quantifying the interruption impact of activity delays in non-serial repetitive construction projects
Abstract:
Available scheduling models for repetitive construction projects can be classified as serial or non-serial. Serial models assume that each repetitive activity is limited to have only one predecessor and one successor, while non-serial models enable repetitive activities to have multi predecessors and successors. Activity delays in serial and non-serial repetitive projects often cause work interruptions for successor activities and project delays. This paper presents the development of a novel scheduling model for both serial and non-serial repetitive construction projects to quantify the impact of any activity delay on interrupting the crew work continuity of its successors. An application example of a repetitive construction project from the literature is analyzed to illustrate the use of the model and its computations. This analysis illustrates the novel capabilities of the model in: (1) calculating a new float to identify the duration that each activity can be delayed without causing interruption in the crew work continuity of any of its successors; and (2) quantifying the impact of unexpected activity delay on interrupting the crew work continuity of its successors. These capabilities enable construction planners to analyze and minimize the impact of unexpected activity delays on interrupting the crew work continuity of all its successors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 515-533
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1657922
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1657922
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:515-533
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed Wa Hammad
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed Wa
Author-X-Name-Last: Hammad
Author-Name: Hanna Grzybowska
Author-X-Name-First: Hanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Grzybowska
Author-Name: Monty Sutrisna
Author-X-Name-First: Monty
Author-X-Name-Last: Sutrisna
Author-Name: Ali Akbarnezhad
Author-X-Name-First: Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Akbarnezhad
Author-Name: Assed Haddad
Author-X-Name-First: Assed
Author-X-Name-Last: Haddad
Title: A novel mathematical optimisation model for the scheduling of activities in modular construction factories
Abstract:
Modular construction has been reported to lead to a number of advantages when contrasted with conventional construction approaches, including time and cost savings, along with reduced environmental impacts. Given that the operations involved in modular construction take place within a controlled environment, an integral factor that impacts the productivity of works involved is the timely scheduling of the associated activities. Unlike conventional on-site construction methods, operations in modular construction take place in a sequential and linear manner, with large dependence on adequate resource allocation to specific workstations. In a bid to address the lack of mathematical optimisation methods that target the scheduling of operations in a modular factory setting, this paper proposes a novel mixed integer non-linear programming model for optimising the scheduling of modular construction activities on the shop floor of modular factories. The impact of scheduling of resources, such as overhead cranes, and the distance between stations to which activities are scheduled are factored in the proposed method. The solution approach presented for solving the scheduling problem involves the linearisation of the model to enable the use of efficient off-the-shelf solvers. A realistic case study is implemented, and an extensive computational experiment is also conducted to test the robustness and tractability of the proposed method. The performance of the model is also contrasted with a commonly adopted heuristic, with the model producing project durations reductions that are 43% less than that of the heuristic.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 534-551
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1682174
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1682174
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:534-551
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Suhair Alkilani
Author-X-Name-First: Suhair
Author-X-Name-Last: Alkilani
Author-Name: Robert Mathenge
Author-X-Name-First: Robert
Author-X-Name-Last: Mathenge
Title: The risks of and barriers to social procurement in construction: a supply chain perspective
Abstract:
Social procurement policies place new requirements on subcontractors to create employment opportunities for people suffering disadvantage. However, the subcontractor’s voice is largely absent from the social procurement debate, despite employing the majority of people in the construction industry. Addressing this gap in social procurement research, a survey of seventy Australian subcontractors was undertaken to explore perceived barriers to integrating six disadvantaged groups targeted by social procurement policies into the construction workforce (Indigenous people, people suffering disability, women, disengaged youth, migrants and refugees, ex-offenders). Results indicate that rather than reducing disadvantage for the most marginalised groups in society, satisficing behaviour in complying with emerging social procurement policies could have the opposite effect. Subcontractors see significant business risks associated with safety, productivity and costs with disengaged youth being perceived as the highest risk cohort, followed by migrants and refugees, people suffering disability, ex-offenders, women and Indigenous workers and employment priorities reflect these perceptions. Perceived barriers to employment vary significantly across these groups with smaller and younger firms perceiving the greatest barriers – particularly for women and Indigenous workers. Practically, the results highlight the potential risks which social procurement policies present to vulnerable people if they are introduced without sufficient support and regard for an industry’s culture, structure and capacity to deliver. Conceptually, taking this research forward, the results highlight the potential value of cross-sector collaboration and intersectionality as theoretical frameworks to better understand how these groups experience working in the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 552-569
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1687923
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1687923
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:552-569
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rochelle Ade
Author-X-Name-First: Rochelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Ade
Author-Name: Michael Rehm
Author-X-Name-First: Michael
Author-X-Name-Last: Rehm
Title: Reaching for the stars: green construction cost premiums for Homestar certification
Abstract:
The assumption that undertaking certification, using a green building rating tool, will increase capital construction cost has been well studied in commercial buildings with mixed results, but less attention has been given to the much larger residential sector. This paper studies New Zealand’s Homestar residential green building rating tool and estimates the cost premium associated with 6-Homestar certification by analyzing the actual capital construction costs of 718 newly built homes in Auckland, New Zealand. To undertake this research, the authors contacted and collected actual capital construction costs from builders and developers of recently constructed single-family homes across Auckland. Given the sensitive nature of property-level construction cost data, this study marks the first development and application of hedonic cost modelling to analyses actual construction costs of single-family homes. The authors find a 12% cost premium for 6-Homestar certification, comprising an 11% hard cost premium and 1% in additional soft costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 570-580
Issue: 6
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1640370
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1640370
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:6:p:570-580
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Anita M. M. Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Anita M. M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Borrowing theories: contextual and empirical considerations
Abstract:
Emerging disciplines, such as Construction Management/Economics, inevitably borrow theory and methods from other, more mature disciplines. In doing so, both the content of the borrowed theory and the contexts in which it has been used as well as the new context in which it will be used are fundamental concerns. Contexts have determined the content of theories and impact their applications – including validities and reliability of results and findings. Through a review of leading literature on theory borrowing, this Note discusses the major issues involved and suggests considerations and precautions to ensure good research practice when borrowing theory – content, context, and methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 581-588
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1727541
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1727541
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:581-588
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sumati Ahuja
Author-X-Name-First: Sumati
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahuja
Author-Name: Natalia Nikolova
Author-X-Name-First: Natalia
Author-X-Name-Last: Nikolova
Author-Name: Stewart Clegg
Author-X-Name-First: Stewart
Author-X-Name-Last: Clegg
Title: Professional identity and anxiety in architect-client interactions
Abstract:
Large-scale construction projects increasingly have powerful and knowledgeable clients as project owners with whom professionals, such as architects, must interact. In such contexts, clients may have a significant impact on the constitution of a coherent and stable professional identity. Based on qualitative interviews with 50 architects across four large multidisciplinary professional service firms (PSFs) located in Sydney, Australia, supplemented by ethnographic observations, this article explores how architects constitute their identity in interactions with clients. The findings led us to conceptualise professional–client interactions in terms of two overarching discursive strategies deployed by architects in attempts to manage clients that are powerful and knowledgeable: best for client and best for project. We illustrate the anxieties that architects experience and suggest that attempts to secure professional identity may result in (re)producing an enduring sense of anxiety with unintended consequences for project outcomes and organisational performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 589-602
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1703019
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1703019
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:589-602
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Stefan Christoffer Gottlieb
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan Christoffer
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottlieb
Author-Name: Nicolaj Frederiksen
Author-X-Name-First: Nicolaj
Author-X-Name-Last: Frederiksen
Author-Name: Christian Koch
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Koch
Author-Name: Christian Thuesen
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Thuesen
Title: Hybrid organisations as trading zones: responses to institutional complexity in the shaping of strategic partnerships
Abstract:
Hybrid organisations have been touted as solutions to a range of societal problems. In a construction context, strategic partnerships, as a particular type of hybrid organisation, have given promises of increased productivity and innovation through business models combining logics and governance structures from both the public and private sectors. Little is however known about how strategic partnerships are established and develop throughout their lifespan by combining different logics in response to institutional complexity. Drawing on a study of a public client’s efforts to create cost efficient services, we analyse the formation of two strategic partnerships as emerging hybrid organisations in the intersection between a market logic, a project logic, a community logic, and an administrative logic. It is shown how different logics are mobilised in the dynamic shaping of the partnerships in response to moments of institutional complexity. On this background, we discuss how the contours of two different forms of hybrid organisation emerged, even though the partnerships initially operated and responded similarly to the institutional demands. On this basis, it is concluded that strategic partnerships can be seen as “trading zones” that follow different trajectories in coping with institutional demands, and hence the development of hybrid organisational forms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 603-622
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1738514
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1738514
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:603-622
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Federica Pascale
Author-X-Name-First: Federica
Author-X-Name-Last: Pascale
Author-Name: Efthimia Pantzartzis
Author-X-Name-First: Efthimia
Author-X-Name-Last: Pantzartzis
Author-Name: Ilias Krystallis
Author-X-Name-First: Ilias
Author-X-Name-Last: Krystallis
Author-Name: Andrew D. F. Price
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew D. F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Price
Title: Rationales and practices for dynamic stakeholder engagement and disengagement. Evidence from dementia-friendly health and social care environments
Abstract:
Latest developments in stakeholder management literature focus on dynamic stakeholder engagement and disengagement practices, and how these are facilitated towards reaching systemic outcomes. However, limited evidence support that this network-level approach can positively influence project success. The paper analyses this issue by considering the practices (how and when), rationales (why) and outcomes (so what) that evolve in the dynamic management of external stakeholders in dementia-friendly environments. This is a crucial area to explore as the ageing population and rising dementia prevalence has increased the need to engage external stakeholders, such as people living with dementia, to develop dementia-friendly health and social environments. The empirical study of the 2013/2014 Department of Health National Dementia Capital Investment Programme involved a statistical and qualitative analysis of 98 pilot projects’ final lessons learnt reports. The analysis advances the dynamic process of timely engaging and disengaging external stakeholders in a context not previously explored in the literature related to dementia-friendly environments. Eight recurring practices and six rationales, the latter characterized by their temporal dimension, are presented in a processual model of stakeholder management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 623-639
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1679383
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1679383
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:623-639
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bhavana Pandit
Author-X-Name-First: Bhavana
Author-X-Name-Last: Pandit
Author-Name: Alex Albert
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Albert
Author-Name: Yashwardhan Patil
Author-X-Name-First: Yashwardhan
Author-X-Name-Last: Patil
Title: Developing construction hazard recognition skill: leveraging safety climate and social network safety communication patterns
Abstract:
Poor hazard recognition skill is a widespread issue in the construction industry. Therefore, an understanding of factors that influence the development of hazard recognition skill among workers is fundamental to effective safety management. Based on social learning theory which suggests that individuals learn efficiently by observing, interacting, and emulating others in workplaces, the current article reports findings from a larger study that examined the effect of safety climate and social-network safety communication patterns on the hazard recognition skill demonstrated by workers. More specifically, building upon previously reported findings presented in Pandit et al. which suggests that maintaining a more positive safety climate can lead to superior hazard recognition levels, the current article presents additional results examining the effect of safety climate and social-network safety communication patterns—maintained by workers—on the demonstrated hazard recognition skill. The study involved recruiting construction crews from 57 projects in the United States where safety climate and social-network safety communication data were gathered using questionnaire surveys—which was then followed by a hazard recognition activity. The results suggest that, apart from the safety climate, social-network safety communication patterns are positively related to the demonstrated hazard recognition skill. In addition, evidence of an interaction effect was found—suggesting that establishing a positive safety climate and maintaining higher levels of safety communication can yield synergistic benefits.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 640-658
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1722316
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1722316
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:640-658
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Arto Reiman
Author-X-Name-First: Arto
Author-X-Name-Last: Reiman
Author-Name: Louise Møller Pedersen
Author-X-Name-First: Louise
Author-X-Name-Last: Møller Pedersen
Author-Name: Seppo Väyrynen
Author-X-Name-First: Seppo
Author-X-Name-Last: Väyrynen
Author-Name: Olli Airaksinen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Airaksinen
Author-Name: Erja Sormunen
Author-X-Name-First: Erja
Author-X-Name-Last: Sormunen
Author-Name: Tuula Räsänen
Author-X-Name-First: Tuula
Author-X-Name-Last: Räsänen
Title: Multi-organisational approach to safety training: the case of a Finnish Safety Training Park
Abstract:
Studies across trades suggest that occupational accident and injury rates and costs are higher than average in the construction industry. There is a need for innovative and cost-effective occupational safety approaches. The Finnish construction industry and its key stakeholders have introduced a new safety training concept, called the Safety Training Park (STP). The STP consists of full-scale training points that use new training methods to stimulate individual safe behaviour and to improve safety climate within workgroups and companies. The Safety Training Park in Northern Finland (STPNF) was designed, constructed, and financed through a collaborative process that included over 80 organizations. A realistic evaluation approach was applied to document the effectiveness of STPNF training from individual and organizational perspectives. Results indicate that the dialogical STP approach with several information sharing channels fits the target groups. Evidence regarding effectiveness at the organizational level is also discussed. Cost-benefit calculations show that the multi-organizational coalition model enables efficient occupational safety and health training with reasonable costs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 659-672
Issue: 7
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1675893
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1675893
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:7:p:659-672
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Vacharapoom Benjaoran
Author-X-Name-First: Vacharapoom
Author-X-Name-Last: Benjaoran
Author-Name: Vachara Peansupap
Author-X-Name-First: Vachara
Author-X-Name-Last: Peansupap
Title: Grid-based construction site layout planning with Particle Swarm Optimisation and Travel Path Distance
Abstract:
Many temporary facilities are required during on-site construction operations of most projects. They must be situated in convenient locations as ease of access can have a significant impact on the efficiency and safety of the construction project. The feasible locations and layouts that satisfy all specified conditions and constraints can still be very large in number; thus, optimal layout planning can be very challenging, even for experienced engineers. A model for solving the construction site layout problem (CSLP) is proposed. A grid system is implemented to simulate sites and facilities more realistically. This model incorporates an algorithm that imitates and calculates the distances of typical travel paths of workers between a pair of facilities during construction operations. In addition, Particle Swarm Optimisation is adopted to solve the problem model. The prototype program was developed and tested on a real construction project case. The results show that the model was able to lay out the site efficiently and optimally. The resulting layouts were better than those from engineers and conventional distance calculation methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 673-688
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1600708
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1600708
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:673-688
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohamed Matar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Matar
Author-Name: Hesham Osman
Author-X-Name-First: Hesham
Author-X-Name-Last: Osman
Author-Name: Maged Georgy
Author-X-Name-First: Maged
Author-X-Name-Last: Georgy
Author-Name: Azza Abou-Zeid
Author-X-Name-First: Azza
Author-X-Name-Last: Abou-Zeid
Author-Name: Moheeb Elsaid
Author-X-Name-First: Moheeb
Author-X-Name-Last: Elsaid
Title: Evaluating the environmental performance of pipeline construction using systems modelling
Abstract:
Environmental performance criteria currently represent major decision factors in civil engineering projects, including pipeline construction. This paper presents a framework based on systems modelling and multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) that captures different setups of pipeline installation techniques and the environmental impacts expected from different execution scenarios. A model is developed via SysML using the principles of systems modelling and engineering to capture the interactions of the pipeline as a product, the installation technique utilized, together with the environment. A TOPSIS-based MCDA module permits selecting the optimum alternative among construction alternatives. Open cut trenching and microtunneling are exemplified and a case study is provided where both techniques are evaluated in terms of environmental impacts. The contribution of this work is providing a structured and versatile framework that properly captures the interactions of different pipeline installation techniques and the environment, enabling the quantification of environmental impacts to a high degree of precision. The capacity to model different scenarios allows comparison and selection of the most suitable alternative.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 689-714
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1605185
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1605185
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:689-714
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mohammad A. Ammar
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ammar
Title: Resource optimisation in line of balance scheduling
Abstract:
The Critical Path Method (CPM) has failed practically for scheduling repetitive projects and Line Of Balance (LOB) has emerged as an alternative for scheduling such projects. Because of the size of most repetitive projects, efficient resource management plays a vital role in their successful implementation. However, resource levelling and allocation have not been formally investigated in repetitive projects. Heuristic methods and optimization techniques have been traditionally used to solve resource scheduling problems like the latter. Although heuristic methods can handle large-size projects, they do not guarantee optimal solutions. In this paper, resource levelling and allocation problems under LOB scheme are modelled as an optimization problem that guarantees optimal solutions. Resource continuity and logical dependency between activities are maintained where constant activity progress rate is assumed. An example project is used to demonstrate the details of model formulation. A complete solution for the range of feasible project durations is obtained as a Time-Resource Trade-Off curve. A pipeline project is used to validate the developed model revealing that the developed model is superior. The proposed model provides contractors with a complete picture for resource usage along with the range of feasible project durations from which the optimal alternative can be selected.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 715-725
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1606924
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1606924
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:715-725
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Amir R. Hessami
Author-X-Name-First: Amir R.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hessami
Author-Name: Vahid Faghihi
Author-X-Name-First: Vahid
Author-X-Name-Last: Faghihi
Author-Name: Amy Kim
Author-X-Name-First: Amy
Author-X-Name-Last: Kim
Author-Name: David N. Ford
Author-X-Name-First: David N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ford
Title: Evaluating planning strategies for prioritizing projects in sustainability improvement programs
Abstract:
Programs to improve the sustainability of building infrastructures often consist of project portfolios that need to be prioritized in an appropriate chronological fashion to maximize the program’s benefits. This is particularly important when a revolving-fund approach is used to leverage savings from the initial projects to pay for later improvements. The success of the revolving-fund approach is dependent on the appropriate prioritization of projects. Competing performance measures and scarce resources make this task of project prioritization during the planning stage a complex and challenging endeavour. The current study examined the impact of different project prioritization strategies for revolving-fund sustainability program performance. A novel modeling approach for sustainability decision-analysis was developed using the system dynamics method, and the model was calibrated using a campus sustainability improvement program at a major university. The model was applied to evaluate the effects of five common project-prioritization strategies on three program-performance measures, across a wide range of initial investment levels. For the university case study, we found that the strategy of prioritizing projects according to decreasing benefit/cost ratio performed best. The research demonstrated that using a system dynamics model can allow sustainability program managers to make better-informed sequencing decisions, leading to a financially and environmentally successful program implementations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 726-738
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1608369
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1608369
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:726-738
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jing Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Jing
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Fangjian Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Fangjian
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: X.-X. Yuan
Author-X-Name-First: X.-X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuan
Title: Comparison of cost and schedule performance of large public projects under P3 and traditional delivery models: a Canadian study
Abstract:
Cost overrun and schedule delay are pervasive in large public infrastructure projects in Canada and there is an ongoing debate over the root causes of these delivery risks and how best to mitigate them. Since public-private partnerships (P3s) have been long touted as an effective mitigating measure, this study aimed to provide comparative empirical evidence to explore this claim. By collecting cost and schedule data at three key milestones (decision to build, contract awarding and substantial completion) from 39 traditional projects and 27 P3 projects across Canada between 2004 and 2016, the study develops an innovative longitudinal profiling approach to inform the debate about the causes of cost overruns in large public projects. Statistical analyses of the collected data unambiguously demonstrate that P3s outperform non-P3 traditional delivery models during the construction stage in both cost overrun and schedule delay. However, substantial budget underestimation is found in the strategic decision-making process of both models of project delivery. Results from the study also provide solid objective grounds for the development of advanced value-for-money assessment methodology.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-755
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1645344
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1645344
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:739-755
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ahmed W. A. Hammad
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmed W. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hammad
Title: A multi-objective construction site layout planning problem solved through integration of location and traffic assignment models
Abstract:
Effective construction site layout planning is imperative for ensuring the productivity and safety of construction operations during the various phases of a project. Contrary to previous studies where the focus has been merely on the location decisions of operating facilities, this study examines the site layout planning problem from the perspective of incorporating planning considerations for on-land traffic assignment on site. The site layout planning problem is thus solved by accounting for location decisions, on-land material handling equipment choices, and traffic assignment on the site’s ground during construction. A sustainable site layout is ensured through minimizing noise pollution measured at noise-sensitive receivers located around the construction site, minimizing the cost of the layout adopted, as well as minimizing the total travel time of on-land equipment traversing between the positioned temporary facilities. The problem is initially formulated as a bi-level model and then later reformulated into a single-level model based on a justified relaxation. To handle the multi-objective nature of the resulting problem, the augmented ϵ-constraint approach is utilized to generate the non-dominated Pareto front. Applied to a realistic case, the results of the proposed bi-level model demonstrate that errors of up to 55% in total system travel time can be avoided when traffic assignment on-site is considered.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 756-772
Issue: 8
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1659510
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1659510
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:8:p:756-772
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Gerard H. Dericks
Author-X-Name-First: Gerard H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dericks
Author-Name: Florence T. T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence T. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Title: The occupational attractiveness of the built environment and the roles of individualism and collectivism: a hidden source of conflict and gender imbalance?
Abstract:
The success of built environment projects is closely dependent on strong collective cooperation. Yet abundant anecdotal and academic evidence attests to weak collective cooperation within the industry. To date, no research in the built environment has investigated either the individual-level differences in individualism/collectivism that affect cooperativeness, or how gender may interact with these individual-level traits. In this research we seek to make a positive contribution by using the individual rather than organization as the unit of analysis. We first test the possibility that the built environment may in fact attract uncooperative individuals who are more individualistic than collectivist with respect to two specimen subsectors, i.e. construction management and architecture. At the same time we also employ a nuanced distinction between horizontal and vertical facets of individualism/collectivism, and assess potential interactions with gender. Using individual-level data (N=548), we find that both the architecture and construction management subsectors are occupationally attractive to individuals from opposing ends of the horizontal and vertical individualism/collectivism spectrums, and that these traits interact with gender. We argue that our findings both expose an individual-level source of poor collective cooperation in the built environment industry, and underscore the need to address persistently low female recruitment and retention rates.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 773-788
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1757732
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1757732
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:773-788
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Christina M. Scott-Young
Author-X-Name-First: Christina M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott-Young
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Sarah Holdsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Holdsworth
Title: Male and female mental health differences in built environment undergraduates
Abstract:
The construction industry faces skills shortages and growing mental health issues which have stimulated a research focus on the underrepresentation of female employees and on its tough macho-culture and stressful working conditions. Evidence of sex differences in construction workers’ mental health is starting to emerge, with women and younger workers experiencing the greatest levels of distress. This study takes an upstream perspective on construction human resources to explore sex differences in mental health and resilience in the early career pipeline of emerging built environment (BE) professionals. A survey of 384 BE undergraduates was conducted using the DASS-21 measure of mental health and the Resilience at University scale to explore the psychological adjustment of first and final year student cohorts. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and regression. Compared to first year students, female students’ mental health appeared to have deteriorated across the four-year degree, whereas, male students’ overall mental health improved. The results suggest that the construction classroom may be operating as a microcosm of the cultural environment faced by women in society in general and in the construction industry with its macho culture filtering back into the university sector. These findings suggest the need for greater attention to sex and gender differences in mental health. It is recommended that construction educators and employers partner together to proactively affect culture change by addressing gender bias early, by consciously creating a female-friendly, inclusive culture which emphasises a sense of belonging, and by providing gender-appropriate support systems and resilience training for emerging construction professionals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 789-806
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1748213
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1748213
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:789-806
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bingsheng Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Bingsheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Qi Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Qi
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Guangdong Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Guangdong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Junwei Zheng
Author-X-Name-First: Junwei
Author-X-Name-Last: Zheng
Author-Name: Ling Li
Author-X-Name-First: Ling
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: How family-supportive supervisor affect Chinese construction workers’ work-family conflict and turnover intention: investigating the moderating role of work and family identity salience
Abstract:
Work-family conflict and high turnover intention of construction workers have been and will continue to be significant concerns in the construction industry. To explore antecedents of work-family conflict and identify which workers are more likely to exit their organisations when they experience work-family conflict, this study examines how family-supportive supervisor (FSS) affects construction workers’ work-family conflict and turnover intention, and how identity salience moderates the relationship between work-family conflict and turnover intention. Data were collected from a sample of 271 construction workers. The results revealed that family-supportive supervisor reduced work-to-family conflict (WFC) and family-to-work conflict (FWC), which in turn predicted turnover intention. The results further suggested that construction workers with low work identity salience or high family identity salience were more likely to exit their organisation when they experienced WFC. Moreover, workers with high work identity salience reported a greater level of turnover intention when they experienced FWC. Findings will help managers in construction organisations deepen their understanding of work-family conflict.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 807-823
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1748892
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1748892
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:807-823
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jeppe Z. N. Ajslev
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe Z. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ajslev
Author-Name: Christian D. Wåhlin-Jacobsen
Author-X-Name-First: Christian D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wåhlin-Jacobsen
Author-Name: Mikkel Brandt
Author-X-Name-First: Mikkel
Author-X-Name-Last: Brandt
Author-Name: Jeppe L. Møller
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Møller
Author-Name: Lars L. Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Title: Losing face from engagement – an overlooked risk in the implementation of participatory organisational health and safety initiatives in the construction industry
Abstract:
Participatory designs are regarded as a positive way to develop and execute organisational health and safety interventions in the construction industry. While most studies focus on effect measures, little is known about process-related factors shaping the outcomes of interventions. In this article, the authors suggest that success in implementing organisational interventions is tied to microsocial mechanisms that affect whether engagement and creativity materialise into improvements. In this regard, interaction within intervention activities has been overlooked as relevant data sources. To exemplify how these may be useful, video-recorded interactions between participants in an intervention workshop setting are analysed. The framework focuses on threats to the participants’ face (i.e. their public self-image), the participants “facework”, and on how social action is oriented to deontic, epistemic and emotional domains of order. The analysis shows how threats to the participants’ faces arise in interaction, diverting the focus of discussions away from the aim of the workshops; developing initiatives to improve employees’ health and safety. The analysis highlights that participatory interventions may be ineffective if potential face threats are not mitigated and managed actively. We suggest that the manager-facilitator-employee communicational design should be an area of increased focus.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 824-839
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1759811
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1759811
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:824-839
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Ninan
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ninan
Author-Name: Ashwin Mahalingam
Author-X-Name-First: Ashwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahalingam
Author-Name: Stewart Clegg
Author-X-Name-First: Stewart
Author-X-Name-Last: Clegg
Author-Name: Shankar Sankaran
Author-X-Name-First: Shankar
Author-X-Name-Last: Sankaran
Title: ICT for external stakeholder management: sociomateriality from a power perspective
Abstract:
External stakeholder support is critical to the success of megaprojects, necessitating strategic engagement, often using Information and Communications Technology (ICT). We conducted 30 semi-structured interviews with a megaproject team and analysed their social media communications with the project community. The findings show three ICT practices used for managing external stakeholders: visualisation, simulation and social mediatisation. Taking a sociomateriality lens we demonstrate how these practices are used for diverse unintended uses to manage external stakeholders. Anchored in a dimensions of power framework, we discuss how these ICT practices were strategically used for persuading, framing and hegemonizing external stakeholders in megaprojects. Theoretically, we highlight the role of ICT for managing external stakeholders over the current use of improving the competitive advantage of internal stakeholders. Practically, social media is used to articulate practices in all the strategic roles, positioning it in a role as a critical ICT tool for external stakeholder management in infrastructure megaprojects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 840-855
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1755047
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1755047
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:840-855
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Papachristos
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Papachristos
Author-Name: Nishesh Jain
Author-X-Name-First: Nishesh
Author-X-Name-Last: Jain
Author-Name: Esfandiar Burman
Author-X-Name-First: Esfandiar
Author-X-Name-Last: Burman
Author-Name: Nici Zimmermann
Author-X-Name-First: Nici
Author-X-Name-Last: Zimmermann
Author-Name: Xiaoying Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaoying
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Pei Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Pei
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Dejan Mumovic
Author-X-Name-First: Dejan
Author-X-Name-Last: Mumovic
Author-Name: Borong Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Borong
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: Mike Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Author-Name: Andrew Edkins
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Edkins
Title: Low carbon building performance in the construction industry: a multi-method approach of system dynamics and building performance modelling
Abstract:
The construction industry contributes significantly to energy consumption and carbon emissions. Moreover, people spend more time inside buildings, so their health is increasingly influenced by indoor environmental conditions. When considered through these lenses, the concept of total building performance can span energy consumption, the associated CO2 emissions, and indoor environmental quality (IEQ). At the individual project level, building underperformance with respect to energy and IEQ is frequent, and the ex post performance gap is partially attributed to the construction project management and operations phase of the building lifecycle. This underperformance motivates the research of this paper into the construction process outcomes in terms of energy performance and IEQ, and ways to reduce the performance gap. The paper develops a multi-methodology framework to analyse the effect of building development project process on energy performance and IEQ from an operations management perspective. The framework couples system dynamics modelling of construction project management to building performance modelling. The paper details the way they are coupled, the application steps and data requirements, so that they can be applied on a case by case basis. The aim is to combine operations management to building performance disciplines and deliver insights for industry practitioners and policy makers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 856-876
Issue: 9
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1748212
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1748212
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:9:p:856-876
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Francesco Daniele
Author-X-Name-First: Francesco
Author-X-Name-Last: Daniele
Author-Name: Benson T. H. Lim
Author-X-Name-First: Benson T. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lim
Title: Integrating ex-offenders into the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
Contributing to the development of employment requirements as an emerging theme in social procurement theory and addressing the evidence vacuum in social procurement research and policy relating to the employment of ex-offenders, the results of a survey of 94 sub-contractors in the Australian construction industry are reported. Results indicate a relatively positive attitudes towards the employment of ex-offenders compared to other industries but also numerous barriers to sustainable employment identified. These include: perceived risks of re-offending; general behavioural problems; and lack of appropriate job skills. Considerable variations exist in perceptions of risk and practices in employing ex-offenders between trades, firm size and past experiences of hiring ex-offenders. It is concluded that policy makers cannot treat the construction industry or ex-offenders as a homogeneous whole and that negative stigmas need to be challenged through supply chain education and capacity-building programmes which provide knowledge, resources and wrap-around support services to enable the successful integration into the construction industry. Theoretically, the results spotlight the potential value of feminist theory in exploring how perceptions of ex-offenders might vary across different disadvantaged groups targeted by social procurement policies. Theories of cross sector collaboration could also be usefully mobilised to explore how new shared practices can be developed between the many organisations involved in reintegrating ex-offenders into employment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 877-893
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2019.1674449
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2019.1674449
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:877-893
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Donna Bridges
Author-X-Name-First: Donna
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridges
Author-Name: Elizabeth Wulff
Author-X-Name-First: Elizabeth
Author-X-Name-Last: Wulff
Author-Name: Larissa Bamberry
Author-X-Name-First: Larissa
Author-X-Name-Last: Bamberry
Author-Name: Branka Krivokapic-Skoko
Author-X-Name-First: Branka
Author-X-Name-Last: Krivokapic-Skoko
Author-Name: Stacey Jenkins
Author-X-Name-First: Stacey
Author-X-Name-Last: Jenkins
Title: Negotiating gender in the male-dominated skilled trades: a systematic literature review
Abstract:
Occupations in the skilled trades are highly segregated with women comprising 1–3% of this workforce in Western nations. We report on a systematic review of 26 articles, from 1998 to 2019, which explored women’s recruitment and retention in the skilled trades. Two research questions underpinned the review; the first identified challenges and barriers, the second identified success factors. Furthermore, the review examines why percentages of tradeswomen remain lower than those of women in professional occupations within the industry. The literature included in this review focuses on the barriers to women’s employment without sufficient emphasis on solutions to overcoming those barriers. The most common explanation for the problems of recruitment and attrition made in the literature is the failure of the masculine culture to change. However, we found little theoretical examination of masculinity and masculine culture beyond the hegemonic binary. Whilst many of the barriers exist for all women in construction, we argue that two distinct factors impact women in the skilled trades more than women in other occupations in the industry. These are the gendered body and informal and unregulated employment practices. These significant points of difference shed light on the future focus for research about women in the skilled trades.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 894-916
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1762906
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1762906
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:894-916
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lameck Onsarigo
Author-X-Name-First: Lameck
Author-X-Name-Last: Onsarigo
Author-Name: Kevin Duncan
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Duncan
Author-Name: Alan Atalah
Author-X-Name-First: Alan
Author-X-Name-Last: Atalah
Title: The effect of prevailing wages on building costs, bid competition, and bidder behaviour: evidence from Ohio school construction
Abstract:
The Davis-Bacon Act and other state prevailing wage laws are instituted to, among other things, protect local compensation standards from possible degradations associated with public construction and create a level playing field for all competing contractors. The impact of prevailing wages on the cost of construction projects to the taxpayers is an issue that continues to be debated at the state and federal levels. In this paper, data from recent school construction projects in Ohio are used to examine the impact of federal prevailing wage standards on construction costs and bid competition. Results from the examination of all bids and winning bids indicate that prevailing wage requirements do not have a statistically significant effect on building costs or the level of bid competition. Results from endogenous treatment estimators provide additional evidence that the prevailing wage policy does not increase costs or limit competition. Additional analysis of all bids indicates that the cost-reducing effect of increased competition is stronger on projects covered by the prevailing wage policy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 917-933
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1723806
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1723806
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:917-933
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ruixue Zhu
Author-X-Name-First: Ruixue
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhu
Author-Name: Xiancun Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Xiancun
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Chunlu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Structural analysis of inter-industrial linkages: an application to the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
With the rapid growth in economic and technological development, the linkage of the construction industry with the economy has changed in the past decades, which may have generated corresponding changes in other industries. This study sheds new light on the measurement of structural changes in the inter-industrial linkages of an industry using the Leontief model and the Ghosh model based on the hypothetical extraction method. The Australian national input–output tables provided in the World Input–Output Database are employed as an empirical study exploring the influence of construction linkages on other industries’ production input and output. The results indicate that construction effects have become weaker in relation to promoting economic growth, although the mining and quarrying industry and some service industry activities demonstrate strong and positive backward and forward linkages with the construction industry in Australia. This research provides an approach for measuring corresponding changes in other industries caused by one industry’s inter-industrial changes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 934-946
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1785627
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1785627
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:934-946
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Diletta Colette Invernizzi
Author-X-Name-First: Diletta Colette
Author-X-Name-Last: Invernizzi
Author-Name: Giorgio Locatelli
Author-X-Name-First: Giorgio
Author-X-Name-Last: Locatelli
Author-Name: Naomi J. Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Title: Characterising nuclear decommissioning projects: an investigation of the project characteristics that affect the project performance
Abstract:
Historically, project management research on infrastructure has mostly focused on its planning, design and construction. However, globally, more and more infrastructure, such as nuclear power plants, bridges, dams or oil rigs, are reaching their end-of-life and will soon need to be decommissioned. Decommissioning projects are long, complex and range from small projects to multi-billion megaprojects. Their costs keep increasing, while there is a limited understanding of why this happens. Nuclear Decommissioning Projects and Programmes (NDPs) are the unit of analysis of this article, due to the relevance of this sector and the number of public information available. The aim is to identify the NDP characteristics that mostly affect the NDP performance in terms of cost and time. Findings from the application of content analysis on the information collected through 35 interviews with senior practitioners highlight the importance of several NDP characteristics, including the need to have detailed knowledge of the site conditions, a good relationship with the regulatory authorities, the availability of storage facilities and stable funding.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 947-963
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1775859
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1775859
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:947-963
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Susanna Hedborg
Author-X-Name-First: Susanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Hedborg
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Title: Developing a neighbourhood: exploring construction projects from a project ecology perspective
Abstract:
As a consequence of ongoing urbanisation, construction projects are likely to be performed in multi-project contexts. Zooming out from the single project and focussing on the context in which construction projects are performed is suggested as a way to broaden our understanding and develop new theory. The empirical case in focus here, which is studied as a project ecology, is the development of a major urban development district, where several interdependent construction projects have been initiated in sequence and in parallel in a limited geographical area. This case poses several challenges to the developers (construction clients) who are performing their projects simultaneously, and literally, as neighbours. Therefore, we zoom out from the single construction project and put the project in a wider context on a macro level, to increase the understanding of the context in which construction projects are performed. The theoretical lens of social capital helps us zoom in on the interdependencies that develop over time, going beyond traditional, contractual and vertical relationships. Based on empirical material, including interviews and meeting observations, the findings indicate that the developers have to coordinate horizontal interdependencies between projects. The findings also show that the construction client’s role has been extended from initiating and delivering the project mission to also having a collaborator role between projects, where ambidexterity is required.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 964-976
Issue: 10
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1805479
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1805479
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:10:p:964-976
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Carter B. Casady
Author-X-Name-First: Carter B.
Author-X-Name-Last: Casady
Author-Name: David Baxter
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Baxter
Title: Pandemics, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and force majeure | COVID-19 expectations and implications
Abstract:
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is placing unprecedented stress on public-private partnerships (PPPs), creating the real possibility of widespread project failures. The disruption and potential collapse of multiple PPP projects will likely trigger force majeure contractual provisions, but the applicability and efficacy of these generic catch-all clauses remain in question. This critical note therefore discusses the implications of force majeure contractual conditions on PPPs in the COVID-19 epoch. We first define the concept of force majeure as it pertains to pandemics. Next, we review a select number of international policies for such events, outlining their key features and glaring shortcomings. Then, we use Novia Scotia’s Highway 104 Twinning Project as an illustrative case example of improved force majeure risk management. Finally, after reflecting on the three ironies of construction crisis management, we outline the need for swift trust in PPPs during this current pandemic and conclude by calling for a comprehensive revision of force majeure contract provisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1077-1085
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1817516
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1817516
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1077-1085
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Simon Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Chris Ivory
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Ivory
Title: Challenging complacency in construction management research: the case of PPPs
Abstract:
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are joint ventures in which the private sector works in partnership with government bodies to deliver public sector projects with the intention to deliver them more quickly, efficiently and with better value for money. They are also one of the most contentious project delivery mechanisms to have been mobilised in recent decades. Research has demonstrated the lack of realised value within many such projects, yet construction management academics continue to examine ways of increasing, implementing and optimising this approach in practice, even encouraging its adoption worldwide despite growing social and political dissatisfaction. Here, we go beyond what we see as myopic construction management perspectives, placing our body of work firmly within wider economic, political and social contexts. We challenge uncritical academic compliance with a process that demonstrably contributes to economic inequalities, opportunism and exploitation. We confront the lack of criticality in construction management research of PPPs, and call for construction management academics to broaden their research focus and engage in more robust critique and analysis of construction systems, as they are realised in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1086-1100
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1744674
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1744674
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1086-1100
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Dayna Rodger
Author-X-Name-First: Dayna
Author-X-Name-Last: Rodger
Author-Name: Nicola Callaghan
Author-X-Name-First: Nicola
Author-X-Name-Last: Callaghan
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Title: The loosening control of social housing: creating a holistic retrofit system for an ageing population through the lens of governmentality
Abstract:
With social housing providing accommodation to the most vulnerable individuals within society it is recognised as a key priority area which has the potential to deliver holistic integration across a range of service providers. A need is emerging to examine the nexus between the energy, housing, health and social care sectors to understand how these separate but interlinked policy agendas are integrated in practice. Presented are the findings of interviews conducted with 24 key stakeholders under a thematic analysis, exploring the key themes and prevalent trends which shape the challenges to creating a holistic retrofit system within social housing for the improved wellbeing of older people, through the lens of governmentality. The analysis revealed that the ideological barriers presented prevent a holistic retrofit process and inhibit the potential to create successful collaboration within the healthy ageing agenda. The retrofit of domestic housing is centred around the concept of sustainability; however, the ideological prioritisation of economic considerations over people has created an increased pressure on resources, favouring ease and cost cutting over communication, collaboration, and efficiency. Significant change must occur within governance and organisational structures; increasing flexibility and alliances, creating a viable means of interaction to create solutions and improve implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1101-1121
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1752925
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1752925
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1101-1121
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sara Hajikazemi
Author-X-Name-First: Sara
Author-X-Name-Last: Hajikazemi
Author-Name: Kirsi Aaltonen
Author-X-Name-First: Kirsi
Author-X-Name-Last: Aaltonen
Author-Name: Tuomas Ahola
Author-X-Name-First: Tuomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahola
Author-Name: Wenche Aarseth
Author-X-Name-First: Wenche
Author-X-Name-Last: Aarseth
Author-Name: Bjorn Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Bjorn
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Title: Normalising deviance in construction project organizations: a case study on the collapse of Carillion
Abstract:
In 2018, the Construction giant Carillion went into compulsory liquidation costing the UK taxpayers an estimated £148m. According to our analysis performed on the case, the demise of Carillion was the result of accumulation of failures and normalisation of deviations from good practice. The purpose of this study is to better understand how deviance can become the norm such that actors in the context of the construction organisations such as Carillion, come to adopt deviant practices rather than respecting their accepted industry codes and ethos. This study is based on an in-depth analysis of publicly available data on the case of Carillion. Our aim is to better understand the process of normalisation of deviance and its potential effect on organisations. Our analysis of the case revealed three specific types of normalised deviance: late payments to suppliers, aggressive accounting and payment of high dividends to shareholders despite the troubled financial status of the firm. The results of our work contribute to theory by showing that normalisation of deviance is a gradual process which can be influenced by actors both within the focal organisation as well as actors in its environment. The managerial implications highlight the need for all actors in the construction sector to become more aware of the normalising deviance process and its potential negative effects, which can be mitigated by stronger adherence to controls in the external environment in which the organisation operates.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1122-1138
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1804069
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1804069
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1122-1138
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: George Denny-Smith
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Denny-Smith
Author-Name: Megan Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Megan
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Assessing the impact of social procurement policies for Indigenous people
Abstract:
Governments of highly developed western nations with colonised Indigenous populations such as Australia, Canada and South Africa are increasingly turning to social procurement policies in an attempt to solve social inequities between Indigenous people and other citizens. They seek to use policies and funds attached to infrastructure development and construction to encourage private sector companies to provide training, employment and business opportunities for Indigenous people in the communities in which construction occurs. This paper outlines the rise of these policies and their origins, and critiques their connection to Indigenous people’s human rights, impact measurement, evaluation and accountability mechanisms. In doing so this paper also explores benefits and potential of social procurement policies, as well as risks. Drawing on insights from an Aboriginal-developed evaluation framework, Ngaa-bi-nya, and Indigenous Standpoint Theory, this paper highlights Indigenous peoples’ definitions of value and outlines their relevance to social procurement. Introducing the notion of cultural counterfactuals into social impact measurement research, it also offers a new conceptual framework to enable policymakers and practitioners to more accurately account for social procurement value and impact, including Indigenous people’s notions of social value.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1139-1157
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1795217
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1795217
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1139-1157
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lei Ju
Author-X-Name-First: Lei
Author-X-Name-Last: Ju
Author-Name: Wanyu Zhao
Author-X-Name-First: Wanyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhao
Author-Name: Chunlin Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Chunlin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Haofan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Haofan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Xin Ning
Author-X-Name-First: Xin
Author-X-Name-Last: Ning
Title: Abusive supervisors and employee work-to-family conflict in Chinese construction projects: how does family support help?
Abstract:
Work to family conflict (WFC) experienced by employees working in the construction industry has received significant attention from researchers. However, workplace bullying and incivility are rarely considered in relation to WFC, and even more rarely in the context of Chinese construction. Consequently, this study aims to examine how abusive supervisors can influence WFC for employees. Through two surveys of Chinese construction workers, this study analyses the mediation effect of employee psychological distress, and the moderation mechanism of employee family support on the relationship between abusive supervision and employee WFC. The findings show that abusive supervision is positively related to employee WFC, and employees’ psychological distress mediates this relationship significantly. Employee family support moderates the direct and indirect relationship between abusive supervision and employee WFC. Understanding how abusive supervision influences employee WFC is useful for both its theoretical and practical implications, particularly in effectively relieving employee work pressure, reducing the transfer of individual stress into the family domain, promoting employee well-being, and improving construction project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1158-1178
Issue: 12
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1817962
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1817962
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:12:p:1158-1178
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Regine Grytnes
Author-X-Name-First: Regine
Author-X-Name-Last: Grytnes
Author-Name: Dylan E. Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Author-Name: Lars Peter Sønderbo Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars Peter Sønderbo
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Title: Developing safety cooperation in construction: between facilitating independence and tightening the grip
Abstract:
Cooperation about safety and joint responsibility between managers and workers is one of the cornerstones of health and safety work. However, attempts at ensuring safety in the workplace run the risk of focussing on formalities and compliance rather than on joint engagement in safety. Drawing on an understanding of safety as practice, this study attempts to empirically unpack the difference between cooperation as engaging with local knowledges and the disciplining of unsafe behaviour. The research involved an ethnographic study at two large construction sites in Denmark and follows empirical examples of how safety breaches are identified, catalogued, and revealed later on at safety meetings. Managers saw this as an attempt to engage the workers. However, the workers saw this as a punitive way of criticizing their work at a distance. They felt that this practice of moving safety from the construction site and in to meeting rooms ran counter to aims of establishing engaging and effective safety practices close to the work. Efforts to engage workers in safer ways of working should therefore acknowledge the integrated nature of safety practice and the value placed on independence, discretion and negotiation when developing cooperation about workplace safety.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 977-992
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1726978
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1726978
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:977-992
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Ron Wakefield
Author-X-Name-First: Ron
Author-X-Name-Last: Wakefield
Author-Name: Derek Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Title: The client’s role in promoting work health and safety in construction projects: balancing contracts and relationships to effect change
Abstract:
It is increasingly expected that public sector clients embed work health and safety (WHS) into procurement and project management practices for infrastructure/engineering construction projects. Client practices in relation to the management of WHS were examined in a longitudinal case study conducted in a public infrastructure programme of work in Australia. Control mechanisms for WHS at the client-contractor boundary were explored over a 12-month period. Interviews were held with representatives of client and contractor organisations. Formal control mechanisms were implemented. Initially, the implementation of formal controls created tension at the client-contractor interface as it was interpreted as signalling a lack of trust and client interference with contractors’ processes. However, these tensions were alleviated through the development of interpersonal relationships between client and contractor personnel at a local project level. The resolution of issues at the client-contractor interface was facilitated by individuals who engaged in boundary spanning behaviours to facilitate knowledge sharing and coordination of effort on both sides. Relationship-based control mechanisms supplemented the use of formal controls and enhanced the client’s ability to influence contractors’ WHS practices. The study provides important new knowledge regarding the client’s role in driving WHS performance in infrastructure/engineering construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 993-1008
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1778758
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1778758
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:993-1008
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Title: Examining the interaction between bodily pain and mental health of construction workers
Abstract:
Construction work is physically demanding, and incidences of physical injury and work disability are high. This study explores musculoskeletal bodily pain and the impact this has on construction workers’ mental health. A mixed-method approach incorporated survey and interview data. Sixty-seven construction workers completed a survey consisting of work ability and mental health measures. Eighteen workers who completed a survey participated in an interview exploring the occurrence and management of body pain, and the impact of pain on mental health. Survey findings indicated that participants whose pain had originated from work had significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress severity. Findings also revealed that depression, anxiety, and stress had a negative relationship with work ability indicators, suggesting that work ability is likely to decline when workers experience poor mental health. Key themes emerging from the interview data comprised of the expectation of pain, managing pain, impact of pain on mental health, pressure to work with pain, work ability and planning for the future, and the stigma of mental health. A conceptual model is presented which illustrates the relationship between work tasks, pain, mental health, and work ability. The model identifies that anticipated and experienced bodily pain creates harmful psychological demands for workers which impacts on their mental health.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1009-1023
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1791920
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1791920
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:1009-1023
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alex Albert
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Albert
Author-Name: Idris Jeelani
Author-X-Name-First: Idris
Author-X-Name-Last: Jeelani
Author-Name: Kevin Han
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Han
Title: Developing hazard recognition skill among the next-generation of construction professionals
Abstract:
Globally, a large number of safety hazards remain unrecognised in construction workplaces. These unrecognised safety hazards are also likely to remain unmanaged and can potentially cascade into unexpected safety incidents. Therefore, the development of hazards recognition skill – particularly among the next-generation of construction professionals – is vital for injury prevention and safe work-operations. To foster the development of such skill, the current investigation examined the effect of administering a hazard recognition intervention to students seeking to enter the construction workforce. First, prior to introducing the intervention, the pre-intervention hazard recognition skill of the participating students was measured. Next, the intervention that included a number of programme elements was introduced. The programme elements included (1) visual cues to promote systematic hazard recognition, (2) personalised hazard recognition performance feedback, (3) visual demonstration of common hazard recognition search weaknesses, and (4) diagnosis of hazard search weaknesses using metacognitive prompts. Finally, the post-intervention skill demonstrated by the student participants was measured and compared against their pre-intervention performance. The results suggest that the intervention was effective in improving the hazard recognition skill demonstrated by the next-generation of construction professionals. The observed effect was particularly prominent among those that demonstrated relatively lower levels of skill in the pre-intervention phase. The research also unveiled particular impediments to hazards recognition that the participants experienced.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1024-1039
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1797133
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1797133
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:1024-1039
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Santhosh Loganathan
Author-X-Name-First: Santhosh
Author-X-Name-Last: Loganathan
Author-Name: Perry Forsythe
Author-X-Name-First: Perry
Author-X-Name-Last: Forsythe
Title: Unravelling the influence of teamwork on trade crew productivity: a review and a proposed framework
Abstract:
Research in construction labour productivity (CLP) has paid little attention to the social and behavioural aspects of onsite, physical, construction trade crews. The mainstream organisational and management literature provides an alternative line of inquiry where trade crews can be conceptualised as teams. By taking this perspective, the behaviours and interdependencies among crew members can be more readily understood in terms of influences on CLP. Using a structured review methodology, a conceptual framework is developed in stages by merging the concepts of teamwork and CLP. The framework begins with a broad scaffolding that draws together two established models: the input-mediators-output model and the big five framework. The more detailed and explanatory contribution uses these from the literature to identify a set of task-focussed and relationship-focussed team processes. A key benefit of the framework is that crew teamwork can be used as a means of mediating what was previously many separate CLP variables. Importantly, the proposed framework views teamwork in the context of trade crews as against viewing teamwork as a professional or managerially focussed phenomenon. To this end, this paper advances three research propositions and methodological possibilities which in future research could be tested to tailor the framework for best fit.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1040-1060
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1795900
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1795900
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:1040-1060
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Rowan Braham
Author-X-Name-First: Rowan
Author-X-Name-Last: Braham
Author-Name: Yuan Yiming
Author-X-Name-First: Yuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Yiming
Author-Name: Chris Bronkhorst
Author-X-Name-First: Chris
Author-X-Name-Last: Bronkhorst
Title: Relational determinants of construction project outcomes: a social network perspective
Abstract:
In contributing a missing qualitative dimension to the emerging relationship-based approach to construction project management, social network theories are used to present a thematic analysis of interviews with senior construction project managers. The results provide new insights into the key stakeholders and social structures which determine construction project outcomes in the design and construct procurement context. They show that from a socio-structural perspective, a design and construct project can be broadly divided into four main stages: project scope/feasibility; tendering/estimating; design development/project planning; construction/handover. Key relational structures linked to project outcomes, both within and between stages, are discussed and the results show that the relationships between actors in different stages are as important as within each stage. Project managers perform an especially critical bridging role in developing a consistent project narrative and language which links project stages together. It is concluded that as lead indicators of project outcomes, the socio-structural concepts of bridging, centrality, structural equivalence and clustering can provide a valuable theoretical and practical foundation to further explore the emergent but as yet under-theorised relationship-based approach to project management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1061-1076
Issue: 11
Volume: 38
Year: 2020
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1776350
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1776350
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:38:y:2020:i:11:p:1061-1076
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Thayla Zomer
Author-X-Name-First: Thayla
Author-X-Name-Last: Zomer
Author-Name: Andy Neely
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Neely
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Author-Name: Ajith Parlikad
Author-X-Name-First: Ajith
Author-X-Name-Last: Parlikad
Title: Exploring the influence of socio-historical constructs on BIM implementation: an activity theory perspective
Abstract:
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been widely seen as bringing a paradigm change to the construction industry. However, scholars have acknowledged that neither widespread BIM implementation nor the envisaged systemic changes within the sector have taken place. Despite acknowledging that the industry’s conditions and embedded contexts shape innovation diffusion, existing studies have not explored in any depth “how” the context might influence the episode of change when a new technology is introduced and the new practices accompanying that technology and old practices co-evolve. By adopting activity theory, its concepts of contradictions and multiple layers within the activity system, in this paper, we explore the interaction between situated and existing practices, or the “how” of implementation; that is, how the activity system is questioned and redefined during an episode of technological change. Drawing on data from multiple case studies, our findings demonstrate that situated practices related to the definition of information requirements, and the production and the handover of information were re-enacted following institutionalised socio-historical constructs (e.g. norms, rules, division of labour) at the industry and organisational levels. The findings provide insights regarding the inertia in the transformation of the sector as also deriving from re-enactments of socio-historical constructs that mediate the institutionalisation of situated practices. Our findings reveal re-enactment as part of the transformation process and contribute to calls for more realistic views on BIM implementation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-20
Issue: 1
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1792522
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1792522
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:1:p:1-20
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hannes Lindblad
Author-X-Name-First: Hannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindblad
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Title: Public clients ability to drive industry change: the case of implementing BIM
Abstract:
Public clients are proposed as key actors in driving construction industry change towards a more sustainable, efficient and productive industry. Based on how they procure consultants and contractors, it is argued that public clients have the power and are in the position to act as “innovation supporters” and “change agents.” However, the client’s role as a driver of change and innovation is oversimplified and there is a need for further investigation into the client’s ability to drive industry change. This paper presents a case study of a public client’s initiative to drive industry change through the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM). We do this by investigating the process of intra-organisational change at the public client by mapping the client’s absorptive capacity for change. The case study shows difficulties in turning the external knowledge into actual transformation when implementing a systemic innovation such as BIM. Findings contribute to the literature on public clients as drivers of change and innovation in construction and are relevant to research on public clients as drivers for industry change and innovation and to research on BIM as a game changer.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 21-35
Issue: 1
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1807032
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1807032
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:1:p:21-35
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sulafa Badi
Author-X-Name-First: Sulafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Badi
Author-Name: Edward Ochieng
Author-X-Name-First: Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Ochieng
Author-Name: Mohamed Nasaj
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Nasaj
Author-Name: Maria Papadaki
Author-X-Name-First: Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Papadaki
Title: Technological, organisational and environmental determinants of smart contracts adoption: UK construction sector viewpoint
Abstract:
This study aims to identify the factors that influence the adoption of smart contracts in the UK construction sector. A deductive questionnaire-based approach informed by the technology-organisation-environment (TOE) model is adopted. The framework is comprised of twelve independent variables and one dependent variable of smart contracts use intention. Ten hypotheses are developed to statistically test the causal relationships between the eleven variables of the research model. The study adopts a convenience sampling approach, with the population of interest being primarily drawn from among UK construction practitioners. The results generated from linear regression analysis suggest that the following four factors have a significant influence on the adoption of smart contracts: supply chain pressure, competitive pressure, top management support, and observability. The descriptive statistics obtained also offer a greater understanding of the perceptions and attitudes towards smart contracts across the UK construction sector. The results demonstrate the usefulness of a perception-based model that utilises the TOE framework to assess facets that influence the adoption of smart contracts. The study contributes to innovation diffusion studies in construction project management and supports “early adopters” at the footfall of the technology’s diffusion curve.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 36-54
Issue: 1
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1819549
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1819549
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:1:p:36-54
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Racha Chahrour
Author-X-Name-First: Racha
Author-X-Name-Last: Chahrour
Author-Name: Mian Atif Hafeez
Author-X-Name-First: Mian Atif
Author-X-Name-Last: Hafeez
Author-Name: Ahmad Mohammad Ahmad
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmad Mohammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmad
Author-Name: Hashim Ibnauf Sulieman
Author-X-Name-First: Hashim Ibnauf
Author-X-Name-Last: Sulieman
Author-Name: Huda Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Huda
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Author-Name: Sergio Rodriguez-Trejo
Author-X-Name-First: Sergio
Author-X-Name-Last: Rodriguez-Trejo
Author-Name: Mohamad Kassem
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamad
Author-X-Name-Last: Kassem
Author-Name: Khalid Kamal Naji
Author-X-Name-First: Khalid Kamal
Author-X-Name-Last: Naji
Author-Name: Nashwan Dawood
Author-X-Name-First: Nashwan
Author-X-Name-Last: Dawood
Title: Cost-benefit analysis of BIM-enabled design clash detection and resolution
Abstract:
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is increasingly deployed as part of the processes in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry projects. While the benefits of BIM have been extensively proclaimed, explicit justification in terms of direct cost savings for BIM implementation on real-life projects, particularly for clash detection BIM workstream, are not well documented. This paper proposes and demonstrates a methodology to prove how BIM-based clash detection leads to cost savings. A schema is developed based on literature review and industrial expertise to quantify cost savings achieved by the utilisation of BIM-based clash detection and resolution. This paper provides validation of the proposed schema on a major infrastructure project. The developed schema includes the categorisation of identified clashes based on stakeholder involvement and required actions. The validation used the estimated cost of clashes were those not resolved before site operations took place. This schema simplifies both the categorisation and cost estimation of clashes in design. Estimated savings yielded 20% of contract value using the schema, for the multi-million-dollar project case study, thus extending evidence of BIM savings and benefits. The schema improves the existing process and valorises clash detection, thus allowing stakeholders to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. In addition, the categorisation methodology allows prioritising on the most costly clashes, and draw lessons learnt for further projects. This schema opens the path towards a systematic methodology to appraise the benefits of different BIM uses or processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 55-72
Issue: 1
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1802768
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1802768
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:1:p:55-72
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joonas Lehtovaara
Author-X-Name-First: Joonas
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehtovaara
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Author-Name: Pekka Kujansuu
Author-X-Name-First: Pekka
Author-X-Name-Last: Kujansuu
Author-Name: Max Grönvall
Author-X-Name-First: Max
Author-X-Name-Last: Grönvall
Title: How takt production contributes to construction production flow: a theoretical model
Abstract:
Takt production has recently received increased attention in both the construction industry and academia. However, the research on takt production has focused on documenting single successful cases, while attempts to holistically explore the impact of takt production on construction production flow are scarce. To address this knowledge gap, this study aimed to build a theoretical model of how takt production contributes to construction production flow. A qualitative multiple-case study was conducted to validate propositions based on a literature review, and the results were discussed and synthesized in the form of a theoretical model. The findings indicate that while takt production is a viable method to increase flow, it requires significant effort in terms of planning, control, and continuous improvement. While having a positive impact on process flow (location flow), the effects on operations flow (trade flow) are contradictory. The study has implications for further comprehensive evaluation of the effects of takt production on construction production flow while facilitating more predictable, systemic implementation of takt production across projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 73-95
Issue: 1
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1824295
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1824295
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:1:p:73-95
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul W Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-98
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1880157
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1880157
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:97-98
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joris Scharpff
Author-X-Name-First: Joris
Author-X-Name-Last: Scharpff
Author-Name: Daan Schraven
Author-X-Name-First: Daan
Author-X-Name-Last: Schraven
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Author-Name: Matthijs T. J. Spaan
Author-X-Name-First: Matthijs T. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spaan
Author-Name: Mathijs M. de Weerdt
Author-X-Name-First: Mathijs M.
Author-X-Name-Last: de Weerdt
Title: Can multiple contractors self-regulate their joint service delivery? A serious gaming experiment on road maintenance planning
Abstract:
The next step in the use of innovative, dynamic and performance-based contracts for service delivery by contractors could be use of monetary incentives to stimulate self-regulation of the network. Because it is currently unclear how performance-based payments in network tenders can effectively encourage network members to coordinate their own operations, a serious game was performed that simulates road maintenance planning to study changes in decision making and the emergence of network coordination. The experiments show that monetary incentives influence decision making, but their effect may be opposite to their intended aim and can lead to a competitive network. It was, however, also found that this competitiveness is not shown in networks where members are familiar with each other. This leads to the conclusion that penalty-based incentive mechanisms probably interfere with self-regulation and that the social dimension of contractor collaboration is paramount to the success of network-based contracting of construction activities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 99-116
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1806336
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1806336
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:99-116
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rui Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Rui
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Wenxue Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Wenxue
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Yuxin Wei
Author-X-Name-First: Yuxin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wei
Title: Owners’ use of contract-based power in construction project transactions: restrictions from process specificity and uncertainty
Abstract:
Little is known about what restrictions make owners unable to use or give up using contract-based power in construction project transactions. To examine this issue, this research explores the effects of process specificity on owners’ contract design and power use during contract execution as well as the moderating role of uncertainty in these effects using empirical data from 327 construction project transactions in China. The results show that owners can use coercive and legitimate powers based on contractual control while using reward and legitimate powers based on contractual coordination. The increase in process specificity (a special version of asset specificity in construction project transactions) encourages owners to intensify ex ante contract design while restricting their ex post coercive power use based on contractual control. Behavioural uncertainty weakens owners’ tendency to intensify contractual control with increasing process specificity, restricting their contractual-control-based power use. However, task uncertainty strengthens (rather than restricts) owners’ tendency to intensify contract design and power use when process specificity increases. These findings can help practitioners understand how the attributes of construction project transactions are related to transaction costs to affect owners’ contract-based power use, thereby avoiding ineffective power use.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 117-132
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1830423
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1830423
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:117-132
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Phuoc Luong Le
Author-X-Name-First: Phuoc Luong
Author-X-Name-Last: Le
Author-Name: Imen Jarroudi
Author-X-Name-First: Imen
Author-X-Name-Last: Jarroudi
Author-Name: Thien-My Dao
Author-X-Name-First: Thien-My
Author-X-Name-Last: Dao
Author-Name: Amin Chaabane
Author-X-Name-First: Amin
Author-X-Name-Last: Chaabane
Title: Integrated construction supply chain: an optimal decision-making model with third-party logistics partnership
Abstract:
Studies have confirmed the benefits of using Third-party logistics (TPL) for efficient construction management, especially in large projects. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of decision-making models evaluating the exact role of TPL providers as drivers for supply chain (SC) integration and optimisation. This study aims to develop a decision-making model for construction supply chain (CSC) optimisation, with possible TPL integration. The proposed model considers two types of purchased materials (type-1 and type-2) and assists the main contractor in determining construction supply chain management (CSCM) strategies, including supplier selection, order quantity determination, and TPL use evaluation. Using the model, the main contractor can take advantage of the TPL provider’s warehouse and order larger quantities, if necessary, to obtain lower prices offered by suppliers. Through case examples in Canada, we find that the proposed model performs better in optimising total SC cost, as compared to the model without TPL. Model validations also show that TPL can be conditionally used to improve construction logistics performance and to meet practical requirements targeting issues in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 133-155
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1831037
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1831037
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:133-155
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Kai Guo
Author-X-Name-First: Kai
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Author-Name: Limao Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Limao
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Tao Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Tao
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Title: Concession period optimisation in complex projects under uncertainty: a public–private partnership perspective
Abstract:
Concession period is decisive in public–private partnership (PPP) projects, particularly for complex projects. A systematic approach incorporating real option analysis (ROA) is proposed to optimise the concession under uncertainty. Options are explored to manage uncertainty in the long concession of PPP projects and an optimisation principle is proposed for the concession optimisation. Sensitivity analysis and case comparison are suggested to test the validity of the optimised concession. Applicability of the approach is tested with a PPP utility tunnel case, in which options to expand and recoup are investigated. Important findings include: (1) interests of participants are balanced through the optimisation, the investment value of the project is increased; (2) profit-sharing mechanism is identified as the most important factor, and a prudent design of it can effectively manage uncertainty; (3) option to recoup can optimise the concession period without harming private developer's interest. This research's novelty lies in (a) exploring the management flexibility and identifying potential options in the concession period of PPP projects; (b) a hybrid approach with the integration of ROA and Sobal-based global sensitivity analysis is proposed to perform the concession optimisation; (c) the profit-risk allocation between participants in PPP projects is balanced under the optimisation principle.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 156-172
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1849752
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1849752
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:156-172
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jing Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Jing
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Xian-Xun Yuan
Author-X-Name-First: Xian-Xun
Author-X-Name-Last: Yuan
Title: Stochastic modelling of maintenance flexibility in Value for Money assessment of PPP road projects
Abstract:
Maintenance flexibility has been promoted as a value driver for long-term public–private partnerships (PPPs). However, the value and risk associated with this value driver have not been properly quantified in the Value for Money (VfM) assessment literature. To bridge the gap, a novel stochastic modelling methodology is proposed to characterize the complex interactions among the lifecycle cost (LCC), performance deterioration and maintenance strategies. Four different maintenance strategies are designed to emulate the practice in the traditional and PPP delivery methods. The LCC includes the direct maintenance cost, user cost, residual value, and payment deduction, the last three often being neglected in VfM assessments. Simulation-based optimization and dynamic programming analysis are used to determine the probability distributions of the LCC and the VfM. A hypothetical highway PPP project under an availability payment model is selected as a case study. The results show that maintenance flexibility is indeed able to reduce the LCC for the private party. However, this private efficiency, if not properly regulated, could cause a reduced asset residual value and an increased user cost, making the public party worse off. In addition, for all potential maintenance strategies, the public sector is found to retain significant lifecycle cost risk, largely in the form of user cost.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 173-191
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1855666
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1855666
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:173-191
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Peihua Zhang
Author-Name: Christine Räisänen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Räisänen
Author-Name: Yang Miang Goh
Author-X-Name-First: Yang
Author-X-Name-Last: Miang Goh
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Siddharth Bhandari
Author-X-Name-First: Siddharth
Author-X-Name-Last: Bhandari
Title: Special issue: what have we learnt from the COVID-19 global pandemic: improving the construction industry’s abilities to foresee, respond to and recover from future endemic catastrophes
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 192-197
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1869480
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1869480
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:192-197
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: List of Reviewers for Construction Management and Economics 2020
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: i-iii
Issue: 2
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1876423
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1876423
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:2:p:i-iii
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jeppe L. Møller
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Møller
Author-Name: Pete Kines
Author-X-Name-First: Pete
Author-X-Name-Last: Kines
Author-Name: Johnny Dyreborg
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny
Author-X-Name-Last: Dyreborg
Author-Name: Lars L. Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Author-Name: Jeppe Z. N. Ajslev
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe Z. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ajslev
Title: The competences of successful safety and health coordinators in construction projects
Abstract:
The construction industry is among the most hazardous industries, with a fatality rate in Europe 3.4 times higher than average. While the occupational safety and health (OSH) coordinator has been a key actor in European efforts proposed to improve OSH in the industry since 1992, it is important to study the competences needed for the successful coordination of OSH in the construction industry. Existing literature on OSH coordinator competences are examined, and an expert survey is used to identify the competences characterising the most successful coordinators in Denmark. Finally, observational case studies of the perceived most successful coordinators in the Danish construction industry are used to exemplify the newly identified competences. The most frequently mentioned competences, not covered in previous research, are “innovativeness,” “having overview,” “persistency,” “thoroughness,” “sociability,” and “being systematic.” The results demonstrate the important “practice of knowing,” rather than possessing formal knowledge, education, and/or skills. The most important practice of knowing for the coordinators is likely that of the ability to transfer knowledge into practice. Future research, education and legal requirement in this field could benefit from a focus on what practices of knowledge actually work in real-life settings, rather than focussing on idealistic notions of these qualities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 199-211
Issue: 3
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1818800
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1818800
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:199-211
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rikard Sandberg
Author-X-Name-First: Rikard
Author-X-Name-Last: Sandberg
Author-Name: Martin Löwstedt
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Löwstedt
Author-Name: Christine Räisänen
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Räisänen
Title: Working in a loosely coupled system: exploring practices and implications of coupling work on construction sites
Abstract:
The conceptualization of construction as a loosely coupled system has been widely used to explain behaviour within the industry. In this article, we revisit the concept by exploring what it means to work at the micro-level within this system. Adopting a practice lens, this study focuses on the daily work of site managers, a category of workers who often have been described to have a hub-like role in construction projects. The findings highlight how their work consists of activities that can be seen as mundane, yet simultaneously fill an important coupling function in the projects, which we conceptualize as coupling work. Coupling work denotes a managerial work practice through which site managers use slack from the parent organization to tighten site-activities. However, they do so in a particular way that tightens the projects closer to their own authority which, in turn, sustains organizational loose coupling. The study contributes to debates on change and development in construction by showing how coupling work is produced and reproduced to preserve the autonomy and control of site managers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 212-226
Issue: 3
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1849751
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1849751
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:212-226
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Joanne Osborne
Author-X-Name-First: Joanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Osborne
Author-Name: Dave Higgon
Author-X-Name-First: Dave
Author-X-Name-Last: Higgon
Title: Affective, cognitive, behavioural and situational outcomes of social procurement: a case study of social value creation in a major facilities management firm
Abstract:
While there is an emerging body of research on social procurement in construction, there is little empirical research from a facilities management perspective. This is despite the enormous untapped potential of the facilities management sector to create social value in the communities in which they operate. To address this gap in research, this paper presents an in-depth case study of an innovative social procurement initiative developed by a major Australian facilities management organisation. Integrating research in the fields of employment studies, facilities management and social value, it provides new empirical evidence of the significant affective, cognitive, behavioural and situational social value outcomes which can be generated through facilities management. These are best achieved through new hybrid partnerships between business, government, not-for-profit, community and educational organisations which create shared value, underpinned by a common interest in maximising social value for the communities involved. More research is needed into the types of attributes, skills and resources that facilitate such outcomes, the attributes of organisations most likely to be able to collaborate and the types of cross-sector partnerships which work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 227-244
Issue: 3
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1851035
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1851035
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:227-244
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Melissa Candel
Author-X-Name-First: Melissa
Author-X-Name-Last: Candel
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Per-Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per-Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: Front-end value co-creation in housing development projects
Abstract:
As a result of local governance, municipalities and housing developers work together to define housing development projects and to co-create value propositions. The purpose of this study is to explore how value propositions are co-created during the front-end of housing development projects and how this affects housing developers’ ability to drive change and innovation. The value co-creation process is explored through interviews, documents and observations in a case study of an urban development programme in Sweden. The findings illustrate how emerging conflicts and the process of resolving them are central drivers for value co-creation between these actors. However, conflicts that are not managed and resolved constructively can lead to the co-destruction of value. In this study we illustrate how value co-creation processes that precede procurement limit the flexibility of housing developers and determine the scope for value that can be realised.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 245-260
Issue: 3
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1851037
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1851037
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:245-260
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Naielly Lopes Marques
Author-X-Name-First: Naielly Lopes
Author-X-Name-Last: Marques
Author-Name: Carlos de Lamare Bastian-Pinto
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos de Lamare
Author-X-Name-Last: Bastian-Pinto
Author-Name: Luiz Eduardo Teixeira Brandão
Author-X-Name-First: Luiz Eduardo Teixeira
Author-X-Name-Last: Brandão
Title: Crossing the Brownian Bridge: valuing infrastructure capacity expansion policies as real options
Abstract:
In countries where transportation infrastructure is underdeveloped, newly built facilities tend to attract and increase demand. This can lead to situations where future traffic levels exceed the concession capacity limit, and additional investments in expansion is required. One common solution is to mandate this investment as a firm obligation in concession contracts, either after a set number of years or when demand reaches capacity. In this article, we show why these policies are suboptimal and propose a model that combines flexible capacity expansion decisions with conditional term extensions. We model this flexibility under the real options approach and the project value uncertainty during the life of the concession as a Brownian Bridge. As a novel contribution, we take into account the fact that concession revenues are bounded by the current traffic capacity of the road, which represents an upper absorbing barrier that has implications for the expansion decision. As a numerical application, this model is applied to a typical toll road project in Brazil. The results show that flexible expansion policies, coupled with conditional term extensions, have significant advantages. These findings can be of use to government officials involved in developing policies to attract private investment in public infrastructure projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 261-276
Issue: 3
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1863439
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1863439
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:3:p:261-276
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Petteri Uusitalo
Author-X-Name-First: Petteri
Author-X-Name-Last: Uusitalo
Author-Name: Eelon Lappalainen
Author-X-Name-First: Eelon
Author-X-Name-Last: Lappalainen
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Ergo Pikas
Author-X-Name-First: Ergo
Author-X-Name-Last: Pikas
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Author-Name: Nikolai Menzhinskii
Author-X-Name-First: Nikolai
Author-X-Name-Last: Menzhinskii
Author-Name: Mikko Piitulainen
Author-X-Name-First: Mikko
Author-X-Name-Last: Piitulainen
Title: To trust or not to trust: is trust a prerequisite for solving design quality problems?
Abstract:
Low trust levels among project parties are generally believed to harm construction project performance, but the role of trust in the context of information flow and solving design quality problems (DQP) remains understudied. Whereas lean design management research highlights the importance of managing information flow, few studies have investigated the association between trust, information flow and DQP (or any combination thereof). This exploratory study investigates the association between trust and information flow in design projects and how these factors influence design quality. The paper presents a conceptual framework based on existing research on building design management and trust in a project context. The framework is elaborated on and validated using a single case study approach with multiple sites. The results indicate that even though the trust trend in the project is somewhat negatively connected to the overall amount of work and work in progress of DQP, increasing trust is not a prerequisite for solving DQP and that owners and contractors can have opposite opinions on the trust level. This study contributes to ongoing discussions about trust, information flow and design management and suggests that teams should focus on improving communication and collaboration to compensate for low trust levels.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 279-297
Issue: 4
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1865553
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1865553
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:279-297
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Peihua Zhang
Author-Name: Peter Edwards
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Edwards
Title: An investigation of work-related strain effects and coping mechanisms among South African construction professionals
Abstract:
Construction is a demanding work environment. Many construction professionals experience workplace stress, leading to physiological, psychological and sociological strain effects. They adopt a variety of coping mechanisms to manage these effects. A purposive sample of 36 construction professionals (architects, project managers, construction managers, civil engineers and quantity surveyors) in Cape Town, South Africa, were surveyed regarding their perceptions of workplace strain effects and stress counter measures. The Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis non-parametric tests were used for data analysis. The findings show that the highest-ranked strain effects in terms of impact were (in descending order): “frustration”, “fatigue”, “strain on personal relationships”, “strain on professional relationships”, and “anger/irritability”. Male professionals identified greater fatigue and frustration effects than females; while females felt a greater lack of self-confidence. The highest-ranked coping mechanisms in terms of impact were “travel”, “non-competitive sporting activity”, “music”, “increased caffeine intake”, and “walking”. Males preferred more intensive physical activities than did females. Architects experienced anxiety more frequently than other professional groups. This study confirms important strain effects experienced by construction professionals and highlights the nature and effectiveness of counter measures. Limitations of the study include its exploratory nature and small sample size. Future research should establish the associations between strain effects and coping measures, in terms of how construction organizations can better support wellbeing among their professional employees.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 298-322
Issue: 4
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2020.1870045
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2020.1870045
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:298-322
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Marc van den Berg
Author-X-Name-First: Marc
Author-X-Name-Last: van den Berg
Author-Name: Hans Voordijk
Author-X-Name-First: Hans
Author-X-Name-Last: Voordijk
Author-Name: Arjen Adriaanse
Author-X-Name-First: Arjen
Author-X-Name-Last: Adriaanse
Title: BIM uses for deconstruction: an activity-theoretical perspective on reorganising end-of-life practices
Abstract:
Despite that Building Information Modelling (BIM) is often praised as a whole life-cycle methodology, possibilities for deconstruction are consistently overlooked. This study demonstrates what those possibilities may be. Previous studies showed that: deconstruction practices pose several site-based challenges; BIM implementations may help practitioners to address such challenges; and activity theory offers a framework to understand BIM implementations. We aimed to explore how deconstruction practices can be reorganised with BIM by applying an activity-theoretical perspective to a rather unique case-study. The selected case concerned the deconstruction of a nursing home so that many of its elements could be reused to construct a school. During this project, we implemented BIM in three essential activities: analysing existing conditions, labelling of reusable elements and planning deconstruction. The implementations resolved initial problems related with the use of traditional drawings, schedules and instructions. They nevertheless also triggered several additional problems that we attempted to address in successive steps. The organisation of the activities so evolved, which culminated in the formation of three new BIM uses for deconstruction: “3D existing conditions analysis,” “reusable elements labelling” and “4D deconstruction simulation”. These concepts complement existing BIM use taxonomies and can be appropriated in future deconstruction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 323-339
Issue: 4
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1876894
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1876894
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:323-339
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahmoud Ershadi
Author-X-Name-First: Mahmoud
Author-X-Name-Last: Ershadi
Author-Name: Peter Davis
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Davis
Author-Name: Mohammad Tanvi Newaz
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad Tanvi
Author-X-Name-Last: Newaz
Title: Important academic interventions for promoting resilience: The perception of construction management undergraduates
Abstract:
Academic institutions play a prominent role in nurturing resilience skills in their graduates especially in fields, such as construction management (CM), which deal with a challenging work environment. Although resilience is a well-established topic in the literature, there is still a paucity of research that examines the importance of academic resilience interventions in the CM discipline. To address this research gap, this study aims to analyse the importance of academic resilience interventions (ARI) from the perception of CM students. First, the literature on ARIs in relevant contexts was reviewed followed by a quantitative survey to obtain the viewpoints of undergraduates undertaking CM programs in Australia. This paper is based on the survey data collected from 105 undergraduate students from five universities. Applying an exploratory factor analysis (EFA), three latent variables were found: (1) industry engagement; (2) raising awareness; and (3) readiness and empowerment to represent the identified ARIs. An importance analysis using the 2D quadrant method revealed that the ARI measures labelled “site visits,” “role model,” and “self-assessment” from the industry engagement aspect (factor1), “role-playing” from the raising awareness aspect (factor2), and “case study” from the readiness and empowerment aspect (factor3) are the most important ARIs from the perception of students. An independent-samples t-test revealed that there is no significant difference between the perception of male and female students on the importance of each ARI. The study provides an enhanced understanding of resilience interventions that can be leveraged for improving the CM curricula.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 340-355
Issue: 4
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1876896
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1876896
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:340-355
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Colin C. Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Colin C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Author-Name: Aysegul Kayaoglu
Author-X-Name-First: Aysegul
Author-X-Name-Last: Kayaoglu
Title: Explaining the supply of home repair and renovation services in the undeclared economy: lessons from Europe
Abstract:
Three competing theories have been used to explain participation in the undeclared economy. A structuralist perspective asserts that workers are pushed into undeclared work because of their “exclusion” from the declared economy. Two alternative theoretical perspectives assert that undeclared operators voluntarily “exit” the declared economy. Neo-liberals depict undeclared workers as rational economic actors and institutional theorists represent them more as social actors who disagree with the formal rules. To evaluate these competing theories in relation to the supply of undeclared home repair and renovation services, data are reported from a 2019 Eurobarometer survey involving 27,565 face-to-face interviews in 28 European countries. The finding is that 9.4% did so solely due to their exclusion from declared work. 19.8% participated purely for reasons associated with the rational economic actor perspective and 28.6% only for motives associated with the social actor perspective. 42.2% did so for a mixture of motives. Using probit regression analysis, the characteristics of those supplying undeclared home repair and renovation services and doing so for each rationale are revealed. The theoretical outcome is a call to view these perspectives not as competing but complementary. The policy outcome is to reveal the different policy initiatives required to tackle each of the rationales for supplying undeclared home repair and renovation services.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 356-368
Issue: 4
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1878545
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1878545
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:4:p:356-368
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lars Peter Sønderbo Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Lars Peter Sønderbo
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Author-Name: Regine Grytnes
Author-X-Name-First: Regine
Author-X-Name-Last: Grytnes
Title: Different ways of perceiving risk and safety on construction sites and implications for safety cooperation
Abstract:
Construction is a dangerous industry when it comes to workplace injuries, and workers' unsafe behaviour accounts for 80–90% of the injuries. How risk is perceived by individuals and groups affects safety behaviour, and this study examined how different occupational groups on construction sites perceived safety and risk and how these perceptions influenced behaviours and practices related to safety cooperation. Over a period of 4 months, 36 semi-structured interviews and 36 days of observations were carried out with different occupational groups at two construction sites. The results showed that a rational way of perceiving safety and risks was most prominent among project managers, whereas an intuitive way of perceiving safety and risks was prominent among workers. Furthermore, foremen at the two sites voiced a perception of safety and risk that was ‘in between' these two approaches. The results also showed that the differences in perceptions of risk and safety had implications for safety cooperation at the sites which arguably lead to unsafe safety behaviour/practice. Acknowledging and integrating different perceptions of risk and safety could be a valuable starting point for construction safety management and could improve cooperation about safety.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 419-431
Issue: 5
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1904516
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1904516
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:5:p:419-431
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Una Obiose Kriston Nwajei
Author-X-Name-First: Una Obiose Kriston
Author-X-Name-Last: Nwajei
Title: How relational contract theory influence management strategies and project outcomes: a systematic literature review
Abstract:
Despite growing interest in Relational Contracting (RC), few studies have comprehensively investigated the qualities required for a successful RC project. Macneil’s ten norms are principles of behaviour in contracts based on the application of relational contract theory and play an essential role in the formation and agreement of parties and their commitment to means and objectives. In contributing a missing dimension to the RC approach in construction, the purpose of this research is to conduct a systematic review of studies of relational contracting to answer the question: In what ways can the influence of RC theory be observed in the management strategies and outcomes of relational projects? Macneil's norms are used to provide a link between strategies and outcomes as a way of understanding RC and its influence on collaboration between the project actors in determining project outcomes. The results provide new insights with a view of consolidating extant literature and contributing through mapping practice back to theory. Findings show that the norms are evident in projects but with varied application and realisation in practice. This paper offers managerial implications and future research directions to investigate and capture the part played by the norms as mechanisms in construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 432-457
Issue: 5
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1913285
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1913285
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:5:p:432-457
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anne Klitgaard
Author-X-Name-First: Anne
Author-X-Name-Last: Klitgaard
Author-Name: Stefan Christoffer Gottlieb
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan Christoffer
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottlieb
Author-Name: Kjeld Svidt
Author-X-Name-First: Kjeld
Author-X-Name-Last: Svidt
Title: The researcher as audience and storyteller: challenges and opportunities of impression management in ethnographic studies
Abstract:
The use of ethnographic methods in construction management research is increasing as a means of revealing local and often unspoken ways of knowing and achieving new insights into the enduring challenges of the industry. Impression management activities, however, challenge the ethnographic researcher. Impression management happens when observees act in a different way than they would routinely, due to the presence of an audience. In the paper, we draw on data collected as a part of a wider ethnographic study to illustrate how the relationship between observer and observees can be understood through the lens of impression management. In particular, we show how the researcher assumes a dual role as both an audience and a storyteller in ethnographic studies. The researcher can thus be seen as an audience for the observees in their attempts to present themselves as agreeable and perform accordingly in front of the researcher as well as each other. This happens in part, as the observees attribute the researcher the role as storyteller, knowing that accounts of their practice and performance may be communicated to the research community and the industry in general. While impression management complicates the relationship between the observees and the observer, and can be seen as a potential source of bias, we also suggest that it presents an opportunity for increased empirical robustness of ethnographic findings if acknowledged.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 383-397
Issue: 5
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1913286
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1913286
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:5:p:383-397
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Linh N. K. Duong
Author-X-Name-First: Linh N. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Duong
Author-Name: Jason X. Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Jason X.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Lincoln C. Wood
Author-X-Name-First: Lincoln C.
Author-X-Name-Last: Wood
Author-Name: Torsten Reiners
Author-X-Name-First: Torsten
Author-X-Name-Last: Reiners
Author-Name: Mona Koushan
Author-X-Name-First: Mona
Author-X-Name-Last: Koushan
Title: The value of incremental environmental sustainability innovation in the construction industry: an event study
Abstract:
Investment in the innovation of environmental sustainability in construction has been encouraged due to the industry's resource-intensity. However, it remains unclear how to convince shareholders and construction companies to invest in environmental innovations. This research used the event study method with a sample of 129 announcements in the construction industry from 2011 to 2017 to investigate the relationship between incremental environmental sustainability innovation and the stock market reactions of construction firms. The research finds evidence that the stock market reaction has a strong positive relationship with these announcements. There is also evidence for a relationship between strategic alliance, capital turnover, and the project start date with the stock market reaction. The results provide insight into the benefits of incremental innovations in the construction industry and extend the literature of environmental sustainability innovation by considering contributing factors that affect the relationship between environmental sustainability innovation and firm performance. They provide a useful reference for shareholders to integrate environmental sustainability innovation into their business strategies and allocate their resources more efficiently.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 398-418
Issue: 5
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1901950
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1901950
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:5:p:398-418
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Laura Rodríguez-Labajos
Author-X-Name-First: Laura
Author-X-Name-Last: Rodríguez-Labajos
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Geraldine O’Brien
Author-X-Name-First: Geraldine
Author-X-Name-Last: O’Brien
Title: Applying constructivist grounded theory in co-production research: a case study exploring its potential and lessons for construction management research
Abstract:
The last decade has seen a drive within construction management (CM) research for greater collaboration between academia and practice to improve the impact and relevance of research. Co-production, where academics and practitioners are engaged in framing the research problem, theory building, research design and problem solving, provides potential for engaged research which achieves mutual benefits in terms of theory and practice outcomes. To benefit from this trend, CM researchers require to revisit their established approaches. Under explored in CM research, this study identifies the potential of applying constructivist grounded theory (CGT) as an approach that enhance co-production research. The paper provides reflexive accounts of what makes CGT a suitable approach for co-production and presents a synthesis of its application in practice, reflecting on its strengths and weaknesses in the context of co-production. The applicability of the approach is illustrated through a case study on facilities performance measurement in the NHS. CGT contributed in the questioning of the scope and underlying assumptions leading to co-produced research which provided theoretical insight which underpinned guidance for future development by NHS Scotland. The findings indicate that CGT is a well-established, rigorous and reliable approach that is viable for conducting co-production research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 369-382
Issue: 5
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1894654
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1894654
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:5:p:369-382
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Katharina N. Jeschke
Author-X-Name-First: Katharina N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Jeschke
Author-Name: Susanne Boch Waldorff
Author-X-Name-First: Susanne Boch
Author-X-Name-Last: Waldorff
Author-Name: Johnny Dyreborg
Author-X-Name-First: Johnny
Author-X-Name-Last: Dyreborg
Author-Name: Pete Kines
Author-X-Name-First: Pete
Author-X-Name-Last: Kines
Author-Name: Jeppe Z. N. Ajslev
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe Z. N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ajslev
Title: Complaining about occupational safety and health: a barrier for collaboration between managers and workers on construction sites
Abstract:
Collaborative safety practices between construction site managers and workers are considered essential in occupational safety and health (OSH). However, establishing joint OSH engagement between managers and workers is still a challenge. Little is known about how managers and workers’ “complaining” about OSH affects collective OSH action and the quality of manager-worker relations. Drawing on an understanding of complaining as “boundary work”, this study empirically analyses how managers and workers’ verbalisations either downplay (collaboration) or build (demarcation) boundaries. Interviews and observations between managers and workers were carried out on a construction project in Denmark to identify why and how complaining is used. A typology consisting of four “complaining” mechanisms was developed, highlighting their associated relational dynamics: (1) Shifting responsibility for advancing OSH, (2) Defending oneself against strained working conditions, (3) Dealing strategically with criticism, and (4) Blaming other occupational groups. Complaining about OSH as boundary work – both collaboration and demarcation – between managers and workers furthers professional fragmentation and conflicts OSH collaboration, yet it occurs in a “safe space” for professional disagreement. We suggest that these communicational aspects and associated relational dynamics should be an area of increased focus in order to promote managers and workers’ OSH collaboration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-474
Issue: 6
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1924388
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1924388
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:6:p:459-474
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Title: Work-family role blurring and conflict among South African construction professionals
Abstract:
A research model was proposed investigating the relationships between work demand, role blurring, work-to-family conflict, and health and wellbeing consequences, and the model was tested on registered South African construction professionals. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyze the data collected from an online survey. The research results show that work pressure is a salient antecedent to all role blurring activities, i.e. after-hours work contact, pre-occupation with work, and multi-tasking between job tasks and family tasks whilst at home. Work hours directly predict work contact but indirectly affect pre-occupation and multi-tasking via the mediating role of work contact. All role blurring activities are positively associated with construction professionals’ experience of work-to-family conflict, which subsequently leads to depression and sleep problems. The results also show that depression affects the quality of sleep and construction professionals are likely to use alcohol consumption to cope with sleep problems. However, depression was found to be negatively associated with alcohol consumption, which calls for a more fine-grained analysis of the relationship. The study highlights the importance of appropriate work design with manageable workloads and reasonable work hours, and the promotion of boundary tactics for reducing work–family role blurring and conflict experienced by construction professionals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 475-492
Issue: 6
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1916973
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1916973
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:6:p:475-492
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nurul Elma Kordi
Author-X-Name-First: Nurul Elma
Author-X-Name-Last: Kordi
Author-Name: Sheila Belayutham
Author-X-Name-First: Sheila
Author-X-Name-Last: Belayutham
Author-Name: Che Khairil Izam Che Ibrahim
Author-X-Name-First: Che Khairil Izam
Author-X-Name-Last: Che Ibrahim
Title: Mapping of social sustainability attributes to stakeholders’ involvement in construction project life cycle
Abstract:
In construction, greater emphasis is often placed on the economic and environmental aspects of sustainability, rather than social. Nonetheless, neglecting one of the sustainable pillars in construction, especially social sustainability, can lead to issues such as poor security and health. Previous studies on social sustainability in construction were mostly conducted in isolated contexts, where inadequate attention was placed on stakeholders’ responsibility throughout project life cycle. Therefore, this study aims to establish the social sustainability attributes in construction, subsequently relating this concept to two key aspects of construction: project life cycle and stakeholder involvement. This systematic literature review-based study has established nine main attributes with 20 sub-attributes, where Health and Safety was found to be the most dominant attribute, whilst Human Rights is the least acclaimed attribute for social sustainability. Further, the mapping of social attributes against the varying degrees of stakeholder involvement at different phases of project life cycle provides a definable understanding of social sustainability in construction, through the three elements of attributes, stakeholders, and project life cycle. The mapping would enable project clients to prioritise the selection of social sustainability attributes (what/how), relevant to their projects by engaging with relevant stakeholders (who) throughout construction project life cycle (when).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 513-532
Issue: 6
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1923767
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1923767
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:6:p:513-532
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jakob Brinkø Berg
Author-X-Name-First: Jakob Brinkø
Author-X-Name-Last: Berg
Author-Name: Christian Thuesen
Author-X-Name-First: Christian
Author-X-Name-Last: Thuesen
Author-Name: Sidsel Katrine Ernstsen
Author-X-Name-First: Sidsel Katrine
Author-X-Name-Last: Ernstsen
Author-Name: Per Anker Jensen
Author-X-Name-First: Per Anker
Author-X-Name-Last: Jensen
Title: Reconfiguring the construction value chain: analysing key sources of friction in the business model archetypes of AEC companies in strategic partnerships
Abstract:
Lack of innovation and productivity in the construction industry compared to other industries is often explained by the institutionalised roles and fragmented nature of the construction value chain. Closer connections and collaboration (such as strategic partnerships) among architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) companies and across the values chain is often prescribed as a strategy to improve the performance of the construction industry. However, the institutional roles of AEC companies and their archetypical business models serve as important reference points for the sector. How these business models interact, and the friction created when they come in close contact is not well researched and understood. This paper identifies business models archetypes for architect, engineer, contractor and materials supplier based on workshops and interviews with practitioners. Friction is identified in and between the business models of AEC companies engaging in strategic partnerships. The analysis shows that architect archetypes face friction with regard to their profit formula and could benefit from profit sharing. The engineering archetypes face friction in their processes since they have to coordinate with specialists from other companies. Contractor and supplier archetypes face friction in their profit formula since the open books force them to alter business practices.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 533-548
Issue: 6
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1925134
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1925134
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:6:p:533-548
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahmoud Ershadi
Author-X-Name-First: Mahmoud
Author-X-Name-Last: Ershadi
Author-Name: Marcus Jefferies
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Jefferies
Author-Name: Peter Davis
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Davis
Author-Name: Mohammad Mojtahedi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad
Author-X-Name-Last: Mojtahedi
Title: Project management offices in the construction industry: a literature review and qualitative synthesis of success variables
Abstract:
Today’s project management offices (PMOs) in the construction sector need to be equipped with breakthrough capabilities necessary for making a difference in multi-project management. Although there is an upward trend in academic research on PMOs, a comprehensive framework of potential success variables is still lacking in the literature. This research aims to assess the extant literature from the perspective of the construction sector to provide a single consolidated overview of potential PMO success variables. A systematic search process was adopted to retrieve publications and narrow them down to eligible studies followed by a qualitative synthesis. A set of 32 success variables was synthesized and inductively categorized under four emerging themes of (1) establishing PM infrastructure, (2) promoting PM practices, (3) PMO structuring, and (4) organizational support. This set of variables refers to three kinds of functional, structural, and contextual variables characterizing potential features of successful construction PMOs. These variables were compared between the construction industry and other industries to reflect contextual contrasts and similarities. A research agenda was proposed to encourage empirical studies on examining success variables. This study contributes to an improved understanding of PMO success variables in the construction industry and directs future research towards the most important topics.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 493-512
Issue: 6
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1916052
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1916052
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:6:p:493-512
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Xiuqin Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiuqin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Bing Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Bing
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yantao Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Yantao
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Author-Name: Lanmin Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Lanmin
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Title: A chance constrained programming method to determine optimal capital structure for privatized infrastructure
Abstract:
Capital structure optimization is an important aspect to ensure the success of public–private partnership (PPP) financing. Existing optimization methods fail to provide certain confidence level of the optimization result of PPP capital structure. The aim of this paper to optimize the capital structure of PPP projects by developing a chance-constrained programming (CCP) method with a certain confidence level under project risks. The results show that compared with existing methods, CCP method yields a greater optimal equity share, smaller NPV value, and higher confidence level depending on private sector’s risk preference. Besides, the optimal equity share is mainly determined by banks’ requirement and government regulation on commitment and it shrinks as banks’ risk preference grows. Theoretical calculation and simulation technique were adopted to make the result more convincing. The paper can help the private sector to more reasonably and reliably determine the optimal capital structure according to their risk preference.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 579-594
Issue: 7
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1930081
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1930081
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:7:p:579-594
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ditte P. Gerding
Author-X-Name-First: Ditte P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gerding
Author-Name: Hans (J. W. F.) Wamelink
Author-X-Name-First: Hans (J. W. F.)
Author-X-Name-Last: Wamelink
Author-Name: Els M. Leclercq
Author-X-Name-First: Els M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Leclercq
Title: Implementing circularity in the construction process: a case study examining the reorganization of multi-actor environment and the decision-making process
Abstract:
Circularity aims to make waste obsolete by both closing and narrowing resource loops and by extending the lifespan of materials and products. This fundamentally different approach to construction practices necessitates a completely different method of organising the construction process. The rounds of decision-making undertaken by different actors at particular moments in the construction process have a significant role to play in this regard. Consequently, this research aims to analyse current circular practices for both the multi-actor environment and the decision-making process. An analytical framework is developed based on the theoretically-informed assumption that actors are responsible for decision-making and that circular strategies are an effective means through which to integrate circularity within the construction process. This analytical framework is applied to three circular building cases in the Netherlands, by drawing upon stakeholder interviews and documentation. It can be concluded that: some conventional actors have acquired knowledge on circularity; and that there is an emergent group of expert actors specialising in circularity. Both types of actors are a prerequisite for implementing circular strategies at both the beginning and end-of-life phase of a building; and should be involved early on to influence decision-making on circularity, especially concerning the long-lived layers of a building.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 617-635
Issue: 7
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1934885
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1934885
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:7:p:617-635
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: John N. Connaughton
Author-X-Name-First: John N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Connaughton
Author-Name: William H. Collinge
Author-X-Name-First: William H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Collinge
Title: Trialling a new approach to interdisciplinary collaboration in UK construction: A projects-as-practice analysis
Abstract:
This paper investigates the emergence of collaboration on a UK construction project pioneering a novel form of project procurement (Integrated Project Insurance: IPI). Using a projects-as-practice lens and an action research approach, examination of linked episodes of project activity chart the unfolding of collaboration praxis in an IPI context through the frequent interplays of praxis (situated doings), practice (rules, values, policies) and practitioners working together. The analysis focuses on important requirements in IPI: that project practitioners, supported by a facilitator, collaborate to develop joint solutions to project requirements and share responsibility for them. Findings show how practitioners understood how to collaborate through the progressive enactment of working together rather than by developing a prior agreement about what collaboration would involve. Thus, the doing of collaboration mattered more than sayings about it in how practitioners created meaning in developing new collaboration praxis. Through this enactment the facilitator role is understood more as a practitioner in the development of collaboration praxis than solely as a convenor of collaboration. Findings also show how the micro-activities of practitioners may be illuminated using a projects-as-practice lens combined with a focus on interconnected episodes of project life to understand the emergence of praxis on construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 595-616
Issue: 7
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1933558
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1933558
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:7:p:595-616
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Sambo Lyson Zulu
Author-X-Name-First: Sambo Lyson
Author-X-Name-Last: Zulu
Author-Name: Farzad Khosrowshahi
Author-X-Name-First: Farzad
Author-X-Name-Last: Khosrowshahi
Title: A taxonomy of digital leadership in the construction industry
Abstract:
Businesses in the construction industry are experiencing pressure to modernize by embracing digital technologies. Like any other change initiative, digital transformation requires that leaders are at the forefront of their organizations’ pursuit for digital innovation. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the different leadership approaches exhibited by construction industry leaders in influencing their organizations’ digital paths. Qualitative data collected from 41 construction industry professionals were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. The main finding was a taxonomy of digital leadership types characterized under six themes: proactive and forward-thinking; supportive; uncoordinated; cautious; resistant and visionless and undriven leaders. These themes provide an insight into how leaders influence the digital transformation paths in organizations. As far as the authors are aware, this study is the first that developed a taxonomy of digital leadership approaches in the construction industry. This is a valuable step in understanding leaders’ influence in driving digital transformation in the construction industry. Thus, the taxonomy of digital leadership can be used to evaluate leadership styles and attitude towards digitalization. The findings are also a platform for further studies on digital leadership in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 565-578
Issue: 7
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1930080
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1930080
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:7:p:565-578
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: A critical inquiry into the hyperreality of digitalization in construction
Abstract:
The built environment is literally and metaphorically concrete but its creation from conception through design and construction involves many levels of abstraction. This spectrum of activities between concrete and abstract is complex and unexplored in construction but it will be shown that a deep understanding of this is required to make successful buildings in a modern age of digitalization. Abstraction is the simplification of an entity with a degree of generalization of purpose and causality but also used to promote the idealization of the entity. When abstractions are believed to be real then there are conditions of hyperreality. This article unpacks the nature of abstraction in the creation of the built environment through three vignettes of practice; considering: drawings, project planning and building modelling. Abstraction has been key to making buildings but is growing in significance because of building information modelling. The themes of loss of meaning, loss of control and loss of perspective are used to show that digitalization involves creating a dangerous illusion of the connection between data and reality thus creating a problematic hyperreality. This can be avoided by stronger thinking, more openness about abstractions and less exaggeration of their performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 549-564
Issue: 7
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1904515
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1904515
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:7:p:549-564
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Sarah Holdsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Holdsworth
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Mary Myla Andamon
Author-X-Name-First: Mary Myla
Author-X-Name-Last: Andamon
Title: Does gender really matter? A closer look at early career women in construction
Abstract:
Despite the increasing number of women studying built environment degrees in higher education, the construction industry has not seen an increase in the percentage of female professionals. Women’s experiences in the early stages of their career have a critical influence on their future career intentions, including leaving the industry. This study was motivated to explore the transition experiences from university into work for early career female professionals working in the Australian construction industry. Nineteen interviews were conducted to collect qualitative data which was thematically analysed. Findings indicate that women are primarily driven by an intrinsic motivation to pursue construction careers. Women have both positive and negative experiences during their transition processes. The positive transition experiences are attributed to supportive and respectful relationships with colleagues and the availability of and access to structured graduate or cadetship training programs. Regarding negative experiences, findings suggest that apart from common challenges associated with transition for all entrants, women must contend with additional gender-based challenges. Many participants intend to stay in construction for the next five years but have concerns about the possibility of combining work and family when they decide to have children and how their careers might be affected. The research provides important practical implications for construction organizations in terms of improving women’s transition experience into the industry, maintaining their interest in construction careers and enhancing subsequent retention.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 669-686
Issue: 8
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1948087
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1948087
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:8:p:669-686
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Devindi Geekiyanage
Author-X-Name-First: Devindi
Author-X-Name-Last: Geekiyanage
Author-Name: Thanuja Ramachandra
Author-X-Name-First: Thanuja
Author-X-Name-Last: Ramachandra
Title: Running costs indices for commercial buildings using the hedonic price imputation approach: a case of Sri Lanka
Abstract:
Running expenses of a building consume a substantial share of its total life cycle cost and range between 70 and 80% in commercial buildings. Despite this, investment decisions are primarily based on construction costs due to the absence of a reliable estimate or forecast of costs in-use. In such a context, having running cost indices that incorporate building characteristics would enable investors to predict the running costs of a building at the early phase. This study is aimed at developing running cost indices for commercial buildings by taking Sri Lanka as a case. The running costs and building characteristics data were collected from a sample of 46 commercial buildings and analyzed using the hedonic price imputation approach, which enables the prediction of costs in absence of cost/quantity data. The hedonic indices developed in the study shows an increasing trend of running costs with varying degree of 0.37, 0.30, and 0.28% quarterly for offices, banks, and all commercial buildings, respectively. This prediction of trend would assist commercial developers to capture the movement of the running costs of commercial buildings and thereby optimize the running costs in the early design stage. This study further highlights the hedonic price imputation approach as a promising method for constructing index values where there is no adequate and reliable historical cost data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 704-721
Issue: 8
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1950790
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1950790
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:8:p:704-721
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mahavadi Dhanshyam
Author-X-Name-First: Mahavadi
Author-X-Name-Last: Dhanshyam
Author-Name: Samir K. Srivastava
Author-X-Name-First: Samir K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Srivastava
Title: Governance structures for public infrastructure projects: Public–private management regimes, contractual forms and innovation
Abstract:
The choice of appropriate governance structures for public infrastructure projects is a major challenge for governments. The extant literature provides ample theoretical support to analyse various public–private management regimes for public infrastructure service delivery, but there is little discussion on the innovation incentives of specific contractual forms and their welfare implications under different management regimes. Our research aims at providing answers to the following research questions: who should manage different tasks in public infrastructure delivery – public, private or public–private partnership (PPP)?; how should these tasks be managed to foster innovation and enhance welfare?. We explore these using a multi-period analytical model that analyses innovation incentives induced by six contractual forms under five management regimes. We derive conditions under which specific governance structures maximise welfare. Our analysis reveals that PPPs induce optimal innovation and maximise welfare if governed through revenue-sharing concessions for user-payment type services and fixed-price annuity type contracts for no-user-payment type services. The risk share of the private partner and the shadow cost of public funds strengthen the case for PPPs while transaction costs weaken it. These results generate novel insights for policymakers to design effective governance structures and set new research directions in public infrastructure governance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 652-668
Issue: 8
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1938162
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1938162
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:8:p:652-668
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yuting Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yuting
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Yongqiang Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Yongqiang
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Hedley Smyth
Author-X-Name-First: Hedley
Author-X-Name-Last: Smyth
Author-Name: Yongcheng Fu
Author-X-Name-First: Yongcheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Fu
Title: Enforcement against contract violation in Chinese construction projects: impacts of trust and perceived intentionality
Abstract:
Violations happen frequently in construction projects due to opportunistic intentions and/or the lack of awareness of obligations and/or honest attempts to react to unforeseen circumstances. Dealing with contract violations plays an important role in managing projects. The aim of the research is to investigate the impact of trust, analyzed in terms of the goodwill-based and competence-based trust, on both contract and social enforcement after a contract violation. A questionnaire survey, partially based on semi-structured interviews, was used for data collection. All the data is from the Chinese construction industry since it provides a fertile context to explore the research questions. The results show that: 1) reputation is used as social enforcement in practice and the severity of it is reflected by the scope of the disclosure, 2) the two dimensions of trust have opposite influences on the severity of contract and social enforcement via different mediating effects of perceived intentionality. Specifically, goodwill-based trust reduces the severity of enforcement via decreasing perceived intentionality, while competence-based trust increases the severity of enforcement by increasing perceived intentionality. A comprehensive and nuanced understanding for managing contract violation is generated in this research, which will help project managers to manage the contract violation and the interfirm relationships more effectively.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 687-703
Issue: 8
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1950789
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1950789
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:8:p:687-703
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniel Sage
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Sage
Author-Name: Chloé Vitry
Author-X-Name-First: Chloé
Author-X-Name-Last: Vitry
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Author-Name: Sarah Barnard
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Barnard
Title: Towards a new theory of construction innovation: a socio-material analysis of classification work
Abstract:
There has been a longstanding concern among construction scholars and practitioners in classifying construction innovations, whether as “incremental” or “radical,” “technological” or “organizational,” “product” or “process”. In this paper we extend this interest in classification to examine what classification work accomplishes within construction innovation practices. Instead of addressing the validity of innovation categories as objective representations we explore how innovations are classified within everyday interactions that shape how they proliferate. Our approach is informed by socio-material theories of classification, communication and innovation, particularly those from Actor-Network Theory (ANT) and Ventriloquial Analysis (VA). Empirically, our approach is developed through an analysis of how a single innovation – a large format concrete block – was classified within a single warranty approval meeting as it entered the UK housing market. Our analysis explains how such classification work is dynamically constituted by formal and informal classificatory acts that involve displacements of human agency that shape how construction innovations proliferate. Classification work is thus shown to make a vital difference to how construction innovation is accomplished and can be understood.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 637-651
Issue: 8
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1938160
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1938160
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:8:p:637-651
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna af Hällström
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: af Hällström
Author-Name: Petra Bosch-Sijtsema
Author-X-Name-First: Petra
Author-X-Name-Last: Bosch-Sijtsema
Author-Name: León Poblete
Author-X-Name-First: León
Author-X-Name-Last: Poblete
Author-Name: Rasmus Rempling
Author-X-Name-First: Rasmus
Author-X-Name-Last: Rempling
Author-Name: Mats Karlsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mats
Author-X-Name-Last: Karlsson
Title: The role of social ties in collaborative project networks: A tale of two construction cases
Abstract:
Collaborative project delivery models (CPDMs) are increasing in popularity as infrastructure construction projects become more complex and grow in scale and scope. CPDMs build on high levels of trust, information exchange and formal contractual relations, creating complex relationships between actors in the project network. The literature emphasizes the procurement phase and contractual aspects of CPDMs; however, few studies explicitly focus on the role of social relationships in CPDM projects. Social network theory has recently been introduced in the architecture, engineering and construction industry industry to study relationships between network actors, but the role of social ties within CPDM project networks is still unclear. Through two qualitative case studies, we have analyzed the role of social ties in projects applying a CPDM contract. The empirical evidence of 41 semi-structured interviews and observations points to aspects that affect the development of social ties in CPDMs, such as initial project setup, project identification, perception of actors, resource sharing and shared space, as well as the importance of formal and informal ties for supporting collaborative project practices. The evidence shows how social ties develop into negative or positive bonds affecting the level of collaboration. This study contributes by emphasizing the interplay between project networks using CPDMs and social ties.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 723-738
Issue: 9
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1949740
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1949740
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:9:p:723-738
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wang Pu
Author-X-Name-First: Wang
Author-X-Name-Last: Pu
Author-Name: Fei Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Fei
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Author-Name: Rui Cunha Marques
Author-X-Name-First: Rui Cunha
Author-X-Name-Last: Marques
Title: A bibliometric and meta-analysis of studies on public–private partnership in China
Abstract:
China is one of the countries with the highest public-private partnership (PPP) experience. Although numerous studies on PPP in China have been published in different international journals in the past decades, few relevant reviews have been found. In this research, a bibliometric analysis of 139 peer-reviewed articles on PPP in China is performed to reveal the research evolution and trend. Besides, a meta-analysis of 111 empirical articles among the total 139 articles is conducted using multinomial logistic regression to examine how data characteristics and analytical features have been utilized in this area. The major findings suggest that, first, many studies are published in the subject areas of Business, Management and Accounting, and Engineering, and most topics are discussed from the micro-level perspective. Second, the issues in the procurement phase lack enough attention. Third, for studies with different research themes, how data characteristics and analytical features have been utilized significantly differ. In general, how PPP studies are approached in China contrasts with the global PPP research. Future research directions are proposed. The research contributes to the global PPP body of knowledge and methodology by providing the first quantitative review of studies on PPP in China and by combining the research methods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 773-789
Issue: 9
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1958356
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1958356
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:9:p:773-789
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Róisín Murphy
Author-X-Name-First: Róisín
Author-X-Name-Last: Murphy
Author-Name: Oluwasegun Seriki
Author-X-Name-First: Oluwasegun
Author-X-Name-Last: Seriki
Title: The impact of environmental turbulence on the strategic decision-making process in Irish quantity surveying (QS) professional service firms (PSFs)
Abstract:
Construction firms operate within a business environment characterized by uncertainty and a lack of predictability, increasing the complexity of strategic decision-making. Construction contractor firms’ strategic response to environmental turbulence is appropriately documented but evidence regarding Construction Professional Service Firms (CPSF’S) remains scarce. CPSF’s are characteristically different from contractor organizations due to the intangibility of services and high knowledge intensity. The purpose of the study is to ascertain the impact of environmental turbulence on strategic decision-making process characteristics in CPSF’s, specifically Irish Quantity Surveying (QS) practices. Using a mixed-methods research strategy, data collected over two dissimilar stages on the economic cycle is presented. A comparative analysis over time exposes the varied impact of environmental turbulence on strategy process characteristics, however, a notable shift in the strategic choice is evident. An emergent approach to strategizing coupled with a move from written strategic plans is evident, while competitor analysis remains superficial. A taxonomy of the strategic decision-making process is derived from the empirical data which uniquely highlights the role of path dependence for CPSFs. The paper provides theoretical advancement in the discipline of CPSF strategy and also identifies a crucial component for consideration in driving transformational change required across the sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-758
Issue: 9
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1952632
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1952632
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:9:p:739-758
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mattias Jacobsson
Author-X-Name-First: Mattias
Author-X-Name-Last: Jacobsson
Author-Name: Henrik C. J. Linderoth
Author-X-Name-First: Henrik C. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Linderoth
Title: Newly graduated students’ role as ambassadors for digitalisation in construction firms
Abstract:
This study furthers the understanding of newly graduated students’ role in construction firms’ efforts to better use digital technologies. The aim is to increase the understanding of the role that newly graduated students play in digital transformation in construction firms. The study is based on 18 semi-structured interviews and three focus group interviews with new graduates and construction managers in Sweden’s three largest construction firms. The results show that despite having relevant skills, new graduates play a limited role when they are first recruited, as they struggle to close the “knowledge-experience gap”. Gradually, whilst familiarising themselves with how things are done, they act as ambassadors for digitalisation and contribute to the modification of senior colleagues’ beliefs about how technology could be used. However, this development is hampered by them getting caught-up in messy everyday activities, which forces them – like other staff – to prioritise urgent issues over important ones. An observed lack of established practices for how to make use of students’ skills hampers their involvement further. It has been suggested that urgency might not only be a problem, but a solution in that it is possible to increase the sense of urgency around new way of working with digital technologies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 759-772
Issue: 9
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1955398
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1955398
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:9:p:759-772
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yujia He
Author-X-Name-First: Yujia
Author-X-Name-Last: He
Author-Name: Lei Shi
Author-X-Name-First: Lei
Author-X-Name-Last: Shi
Author-Name: Zhongfu Li
Author-X-Name-First: Zhongfu
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: The combined effect of marginal social and private benefit on the socially optimal equity structure of PPP projects
Abstract:
Although bundling in public–private partnership (PPP) projects fosters cost savings in the provision of public services, such savings might come at the expense of social benefits due to the low quality of non-contractible services and the incompleteness of the contract. A game model is presented to analyse how the equity allocation between private partners—typically, building firms and operating firms—indirectly influences their incentives, in order to improve the quality of non-contractible services. The findings show that the equity structure can effectively compensate for the incompleteness of the contract. When the equity structure is privately negotiated by private partners whose only concern is private benefits, a loss of social benefits due to the low quality of non-contractible services occurs because the penalties are not enforceable. A socially optimal equity structure, which depends on the combined effects of marginal social and private benefits, plays a role in aligning these social and private benefits, thereby providing private partners with appropriate incentives to improve non-contractible services. These findings provide insights into the regulation of the equity structure for PPP projects providing services in diverse sectors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 807-823
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1974503
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1974503
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:807-823
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Sarah Holdsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Holdsworth
Author-Name: Christina M. Scott-Young
Author-X-Name-First: Christina M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott-Young
Author-Name: Kara Sandri
Author-X-Name-First: Kara
Author-X-Name-Last: Sandri
Title: Resilience in a hostile workplace: the experience of women onsite in construction
Abstract:
Women working onsite in construction contend with multiple work hazards arising from the masculine-based work culture. Resilience has been proposed as an important asset for trades and semi-skilled women to manage work hazards and retain work focus. An explanatory sequential research design incorporating survey and interview data was used to explore the resilience of women. One hundred and sixty-eight Australian trades and semi-skilled women completed the Employee Resilience Scale and forty-three of these participants were interviewed. Survey results indicate that participants had a high level of employee resilience, suggesting a strong ability to adapt and succeed in a challenging work environment. Thematic analysis of the interview data identified that resilience is considered as a mandatory capability by women working onsite to manage gendered workplace hazards and attain career success. The findings indicate that these women had high levels of resilience despite little to no support from their workplace. Given its importance, it is recommended that resilience development be included in apprenticeship programs to support retention and career success for tradeswomen. Developing the resilience of semi-skilled women requires more consideration from the industry given their precarious employment status and career pathway. More broadly, the results reiterate that more needs to be done to provide a safe working environment for women working onsite. Rather than relying on women to navigate hostile workplaces, construction employers must protect the safety and health of all workers irrespective of gender.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 839-852
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1981958
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1981958
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:839-852
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Andrew Karvonen
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Karvonen
Title: Grand challenges facing our cities: where construction management research meets the urban field
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 874-878
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1972400
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1972400
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:874-878
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Victor Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Victor
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Kajsa Hulthén
Author-X-Name-First: Kajsa
Author-X-Name-Last: Hulthén
Author-Name: Viktoria Sundquist
Author-X-Name-First: Viktoria
Author-X-Name-Last: Sundquist
Author-Name: Anna Fredriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Fredriksson
Author-Name: Mats Janné
Author-X-Name-First: Mats
Author-X-Name-Last: Janné
Title: The role of public actors in construction logistics: effects on and of relational interfaces
Abstract:
Public actors are increasingly enforcing the use of specifically designed construction logistics setups (CLS) to cope with logistical challenges and minimising disturbances on third parties in large construction projects. The organising of these CLS is contingent on the interaction among several types of actors. The purpose of the paper is to advance the understanding of the design and use of CLS and the distribution of various outcomes of such arrangements on the actors involved. The paper analyses the role of public actors in the initiating of CLS and how this affects the relational interfaces in the CLS triad of developers, contractors and logistics service providers, and the outcomes of their interactions. First, the main reason for a public actor to initiate a CLS is not cost, productivity or innovativity gains, but to decrease disturbances on third parties. Second, developers and contractors are forced to use the CLS initiated by the public actor. This makes them take on a forced customer role, explaining why these actors are often resistant to adopt to a certain CLS. Third, ripple effects, such as unintended costs and productivity impacts, occur in the construction supply chain because of the use of CLS.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 791-806
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1970785
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1970785
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:791-806
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yanqing Fang
Author-X-Name-First: Yanqing
Author-X-Name-Last: Fang
Author-Name: Emmanuel Itodo Daniel
Author-X-Name-First: Emmanuel Itodo
Author-X-Name-Last: Daniel
Author-Name: Shuquan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Shuquan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Conceptual framework for lean construction ambidexterity in project-based organizations
Abstract:
Lean construction (LC) is widely used to eliminate waste in the construction industry. However, few studies have focussed on LC capabilities. In the absence of a theoretical foundation, the equal treatment of inherent rigidity and flexibility has received little attention. This critical literature review answered the following research questions: What is the current understanding of the two characteristics of LC? Is there a theoretical explanation for their relationship? How can LC capabilities be realized in a project-based organization? The results revealed the lack of a clear definition of LC capabilities. The study posits that LC capabilities involve ambidexterity. Ambidexterity embodies the LC philosophy, principles, and methods, with a focus on resolving the paradoxical tensions in LC projects. Ambidexterity was found to be a two-dimensional paradox comprising exploitative and exploratory capabilities. It emphasizes the achievement of a balance between the two capabilities. The proposed model indicates that LC project-based organizations provide the ideal context for the development of ambidexterity. This study uses a paradoxical lens to introduce the notion of LC capabilities as ambidexterity. This research contributes to the current knowledge and future applications of organizational ambidexterity theory to LC capability development. In addition, it will enable practitioners to understand and manage the paradoxical tensions in LC projects. The proposed framework can guide the creation of an ideal LC project-organization environment.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 824-838
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1978516
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:824-838
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Konrad Graser
Author-X-Name-First: Konrad
Author-X-Name-Last: Graser
Author-Name: Aniko Kahlert
Author-X-Name-First: Aniko
Author-X-Name-Last: Kahlert
Author-Name: Daniel M. Hall
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hall
Title: DFAB HOUSE: implications of a building-scale demonstrator for adoption of digital fabrication in AEC
Abstract:
The Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry finds itself in an accelerating shift towards the use of more digital fabrication (DFAB) technologies. DFAB promises great advantages in AEC, but its adoption is so far lagging and there are few examples of building projects employing DFAB at scale. To facilitate DFAB adoption, we need to identify its challenges and opportunities of in the project context and understand its implications beyond project boundaries. To do this, this paper conducts a single case study on DFAB HOUSE, the first project to introduce several fundamentally new DFAB technologies to construct a fully functional building. Using Qualitative Content Analysis, we provide an overview of the challenges to consider and the strategies available to successfully adopt DFAB technologies in construction projects, establishing a socio-technical framework for DFAB adoption in AEC projects. We find that full-scale projects are an effective exploration method of DFAB in AEC, implementation at scale increases acceptance of DFAB in AEC, and projects are instrumental in establishing an emergent praxis of DFAB.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 853-873
Issue: 10
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1988667
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1988667
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:10:p:853-873
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Phuong H. D. Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Phuong H. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Dai Q. Tran
Author-X-Name-First: Dai Q.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tran
Author-Name: Sai P. K. Bypaneni
Author-X-Name-First: Sai P. K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bypaneni
Title: Exploring the impact of project size on design-bid-build and design-build project delivery performance in highways
Abstract:
The highway construction industry has been increasingly using design-build (D-B) project delivery because of its documented benefits. Only limited studies, if any, have compared D-B and traditional design-bid-build (D-B-B) project performance based on the size of projects. The existing gap was addressed by investigating the cost growth, schedule growth, and construction intensity of highway projects delivered under D-B-B and D-B with the project sizes ranging from $2 million to greater than $100 million. These projects were collected from six state departments of transportations in the U.S. with mature D-B programs. Several statistics tests including t-test, Welch’s test, and Mann–Whitney U-test were used to analyze 3888 completed highway construction projects. The results show that D-B produced a lower cost growth than D-B-B in the project size of over $10 million while D-B-B projects had lower cost growth than D-B projects in the project size from $2 million to $10 million. D-B projects also produced less schedule growth than D-B-B projects across all groups of project size. D-B-B projects had a faster work pace than D-B projects in the project size from $2 million to $10 million. The findings contribute to the project delivery body of knowledge by reporting statistically empirical comparisons between D-B-B and D-B project performance controlled by the project size. The findings may help highway agencies better understand how D-B performs under the different sizes of projects in terms of cost growth, schedule growth, and construction intensity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 879-893
Issue: 11
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1993289
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1993289
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:11:p:879-893
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Raghu Dharmapuri Tirumala
Author-X-Name-First: Raghu
Author-X-Name-Last: Dharmapuri Tirumala
Author-Name: Neeraj Dangol
Author-X-Name-First: Neeraj
Author-X-Name-Last: Dangol
Author-Name: Piyush Tiwari
Author-X-Name-First: Piyush
Author-X-Name-Last: Tiwari
Author-Name: Paulo Vaz-Serra
Author-X-Name-First: Paulo
Author-X-Name-Last: Vaz-Serra
Title: Comparative analysis of outcomes under PPP and traditional modes of delivery: a study of schools in Melbourne
Abstract:
Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements are perceived as compelling alternatives to traditional infrastructure development to raise finances and improve efficiency. However, with the substantial improvement in the provision of services through traditionally developed infrastructure, the benefits of PPP implementation need to be continually evaluated. This research investigates three categories of outcomes (educational, stakeholder satisfaction, and general outcomes) for schools in Melbourne implemented under PPP arrangement to those implemented under a traditional procurement method. Data Envelopment Analysis is used to assess the efficiency of these outcomes, based on the consumption of teaching, financial and physical resources. The results indicate that there is no substantial difference between the performance of both arrangements. While the schools implemented under the PPP arrangement have provided better education outcomes, the traditional schools perform better in stakeholder satisfaction and general outcomes. The results indicate that the policymakers need to evaluate infrastructure based PPP arrangements more closely and align with the desired outcomes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 894-911
Issue: 11
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1994147
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1994147
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:11:p:894-911
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Hasan Murat Ertuğrul
Author-X-Name-First: Hasan Murat
Author-X-Name-Last: Ertuğrul
Author-Name: Burak Pirgaip
Author-X-Name-First: Burak
Author-X-Name-Last: Pirgaip
Title: The nexus between construction investment and economic development: evidence from MENA countries
Abstract:
Although the literature is replete with studies that signify the role of the construction industry in economic development, the complexity of the relationship still deserves attention and calls for a regional perspective as well as more robust empirical evidence. To fill this gap, we scrutinise the nexus between construction investment and economic development for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by employing second generation panel data modelling tools. We do so with a focus on top ten developing economies in the region, namely, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iraq, Qatar, Algeria, Kuwait, and Morocco, between 1970 and 2019. We find that there is an inverted U-shaped pattern, in line with Bon’s proposition, implying that the share of construction investments started to decline at some point in time as the economic growth reached a certain threshold. We argue that MENA countries should reconsider their construction-induced growth policies and incorporate alternative options supported by innovative and environmental-friendly technologies to attach much more importance to the role of construction in future economic development plans.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 932-947
Issue: 11
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1998919
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1998919
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:11:p:932-947
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wenqian Guo
Author-X-Name-First: Wenqian
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Author-Name: Wenxue Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Wenxue
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Author-Name: Xinran Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Xinran
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Feifei Cai
Author-X-Name-First: Feifei
Author-X-Name-Last: Cai
Title: How interpersonal ties affect interorganizational trust in construction projects: role differences and cross-level effects
Abstract:
Interorganizational trust significantly impacts performance, while distrust leads to high costs. How to effectively build interorganizational trust is critical, whereas few studies point out how boundary spanners, as representatives of the interaction between two organisations, affect interorganizational trust. The authors put forward a trust-building mechanism to verify whether interpersonal ties (obligatory ties, instrumental ties, and affective ties) promote interorganizational trust through the establishment of interpersonal trust and compare the differences in trust-building mechanisms between different boundary spanners (project leaders and team members). By adopting structural equation modelling and regression analysis, the data of 271 questionnaires from the construction industry in China reveal that as for team members, cognitive and affective trust significantly mediate the relationship between interpersonal ties and interorganizational trust. But as for project leaders, only cognitive trust has a significant mediating effect. This cross-level mechanism to answer how interpersonal ties affect interorganizational trust further enriches social embeddedness theory. Meanwhile, by distinguishing the differences of trust-building mechanisms between different boundary spanners, the research on stakeholders’ trust-building mechanisms can also be expanded.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 912-931
Issue: 11
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 11
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1994148
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1994148
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:11:p:912-931
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ramin Asadi
Author-X-Name-First: Ramin
Author-X-Name-Last: Asadi
Author-Name: Suzanne Wilkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Suzanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Wilkinson
Author-Name: James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi
Author-X-Name-First: James Olabode Bamidele
Author-X-Name-Last: Rotimi
Title: Towards contracting strategy usage for rework in construction projects: a comprehensive review
Abstract:
Rework has been the core of attention for several years in the industry and academia as it affects the performance of projects. However, the trend of rework academic papers indicates an increasing rate in recent years; the overall research lacks a comprehensive review of the implemented theories and proposed models to explore further directions for rework management. Thus, to achieve a better understanding of rework it is necessary to perform an extensive review. This research aims to explore various insights from rework-related articles, discuss major research areas, and identify gaps for future studies looking closely at construction contracts. The selected articles are from three databases: “Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar”. The findings are categorized into six study areas: sources of rework, models and solutions, management and strategies, theories and techniques, rework impacts, and factors affecting rework. The analysis of the employed techniques across these topics showed that System Dynamic Modelling, Action Research, Analytic Hierarchy Process, and Regression have been used more frequently than other methods. The comprehensive review also shed light on the new ways of thinking, analyzing, and controlling the impacts of the rework. This paper proposes the assessment of rework causes in the conditions of contract which provides opportunities for improvement of the construction contracts.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 953-971
Issue: 12
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2004609
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2004609
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:12:p:953-971
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Oswald
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oswald
Author-Name: Léon olde Scholtenhuis
Author-X-Name-First: Léon olde
Author-X-Name-Last: Scholtenhuis
Author-Name: Trivess Moore
Author-X-Name-First: Trivess
Author-X-Name-Last: Moore
Author-Name: Simon Smith
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Smith
Title: Construction defects, danger, disruption and disputes: a systemic view of the construction industry post-Grenfell
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 949-952
Issue: 12
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2015973
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2015973
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:12:p:949-952
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mustafa Selçuk Çıdık
Author-X-Name-First: Mustafa Selçuk
Author-X-Name-Last: Çıdık
Author-Name: Stephen Phillips
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Phillips
Title: Buildings as complex systems: the impact of organisational culture on building safety
Abstract:
High-risk buildings can be considered as complex systems involving various social actors and technology, which draws attention to the organisational and social underpinnings of their safety. This research draws on complex systems theory and high reliability organisations (HRO) literature to develop insights into the cultural aspects of safety management and regulation of high-risk buildings. Ten semi-structured interviews were undertaken to explore the opinions and experiences of built environment professionals in England about the ongoing regulatory changes regarding high-risk buildings following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower. The findings expose some aspects of the organisational culture that underpin the safety-related behaviour in high-risk building life cycle in England, which are incompatible with those that underpin HRO. The findings also show how the studied regulatory changes are subsumed by this organisational culture and fail to deliver their intention. Hence, the paper establishes organisational culture of the building life cycle as a key consideration for safety management and regulation of high-risk buildings. The conclusion calls for future regulatory, practical and research efforts to develop a better appreciation of the organisational culture, and to aim for measures to cultivate a culture that enables collective mindfulness.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 972-987
Issue: 12
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1966816
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1966816
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:12:p:972-987
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: List of Reviewers for Construction Management and Economics 2021
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: i-iv
Issue: 12
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2020536
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2020536
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:12:p:i-iv
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tara Brooks
Author-X-Name-First: Tara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brooks
Author-Name: Joseph G. Gunning
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gunning
Author-Name: John P. Spillane
Author-X-Name-First: John P.
Author-X-Name-Last: Spillane
Author-Name: John Cole
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Cole
Title: Regulatory decoupling and the effectiveness of the ISO 9001 quality management system in the construction sector in the UK – a case study analysis
Abstract:
Construction quality defects are a widespread and recurrent industry problem; the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) has been proposed as a tool to improve construction quality. It is one of the most widely adopted management systems worldwide and is a prerequisite for many construction tenders. Institutional theory uses the concept of regulatory decoupling to probe “performative” implementation of a standard or regulation; this theory has not to date been applied to ISO 9001 QMS implementation in the construction industry. In this context, the aim of this research is to investigate the extent of regulatory decoupling and its impact on the effectiveness of implementation of the ISO 9001 QMS in 3 case study construction organizations. 34 interviews are undertaken across three case study organizations and analyzed using an abductive grounded theory approach. In all three case study organizations, regulatory decoupling between the operation of the companies and their ISO 9001 system is taking place. Disconnection of the QMS to quality “on the ground” is evident. A model showing factors that foster regulatory decoupling is produced. The picture of compliance is complex and continually evolving. The study concludes with recommendations for industry to reconnect QMS systems to site operation and management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 988-1005
Issue: 12
Volume: 39
Year: 2021
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1983186
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1983186
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:39:y:2021:i:12:p:988-1005
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Anna-Therése Järvenpää
Author-X-Name-First: Anna-Therése
Author-X-Name-Last: Järvenpää
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Johan Larsson
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsson
Title: Exploring a public client’s control systems in infrastructure projects from a relationship history perspective
Abstract:
Using a proper control system is vital to ensure that project delivery is satisfactory for the client. Prior research has identified relationship history as a potentially vital contingency factor in organizational control, but there is a lack of research on how relationship history affects how different control systems function in project-based contexts. In the Swedish infrastructure market, increased demand has resulted in a need for increased supply capacity. This has spurred new entrants that have no relationship history with the major client, the Swedish Transport Administration. The purpose is therefore to compare how the client’s control systems function in construction projects with familiar (known to the client) and unfamiliar (new to the client) contractors. The case study involves 32 interviews conducted in six infrastructure projects, three with unfamiliar contractors. Findings show that relationship history heavily influences how the control systems function, especially bureaucratic and clan control. The new contractors are unaccustomed with the client’s extensive use of bureaucratic control and perceive it as less suitable in design-build contracts. Furthermore, the lack of relationship history reduces the opportunity to use clan control from the beginning of a project, due to unfamiliarity with both the client and the control system.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 56-71
Issue: 1
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2014064
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2014064
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:1:p:56-71
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Andreas Ekeskär
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Ekeskär
Author-Name: Malena I. Havenvid
Author-X-Name-First: Malena I.
Author-X-Name-Last: Havenvid
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: Construction logistics in a multi-project context: coopetition among main contractors and the role of third-party logistics providers
Abstract:
As a part of supply chain management (SCM) initiatives to improve performance and productivity in construction projects, the use of construction logistics setups (CLSs) operated by third-party logistics (TPL) providers have increased. CLSs are often used in complex multi-project contexts, such as urban development districts, where extensive coordination of actors, resources, and activities is needed. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to investigate how main contractors engage in horizontal relationships with each other when coordinating activities and resources within and across projects in a multi-project context, and to investigate what role a TPL provider assumes when engaging in relationships with main contractors in a multi-project context. The findings are based on a case study of an urban development district with a mandatory TPL-operated CLS, and we apply the industrial network approach. In this multi-project context, the main contractors engage in coopetitive relationships, coordinating activities and resources within and across projects. The TPL provider coordinates actors, resources, and activities, facilitating smoother production by managing logistics and mediating coopetitive relationships. This can be understood as a multi-project coordination role and extends the role SCM can play in construction. In that role, a TPL provider can minimise tensions between coopetitive actors across a multitude of horizontal relationships and projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 25-40
Issue: 1
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2012815
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2012815
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:1:p:25-40
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richmond Juvenile Ehwi
Author-X-Name-First: Richmond Juvenile
Author-X-Name-Last: Ehwi
Author-Name: Kwadwo Oti-Sarpong
Author-X-Name-First: Kwadwo
Author-X-Name-Last: Oti-Sarpong
Author-Name: Reyhaneh Shojaei
Author-X-Name-First: Reyhaneh
Author-X-Name-Last: Shojaei
Author-Name: Gemma Burgess
Author-X-Name-First: Gemma
Author-X-Name-Last: Burgess
Title: Offsite Manufacturing Research: A Systematic Review of Methodologies Used
Abstract:
Debates regarding research methodologies in construction, engineering and management (CEM) literature are long-standing. However, in the growing literature on offsite manufacturing (OSM), such debates are lacking and some studies conflate different components of research methodologies such as research design, methods, data sources, data types, and analytical techniques. This study examines the components of research methodologies reported in the OSM literature and how they compare with the established relationships between the key components of research methodologies. We analyse 74 articles on OSM sampled from 26 journals and find that quantitative methods, case studies, primary data, bibliometric database and modelling are the most preferred methodological approaches. The methodological components reported also cohere with established relationships between components of research methodology, other than the relationship between research methods and data sources. The findings reveal a growing hybridisation of research designs, data sources and analytical techniques, which suggests that methodological plurality is emerging in the OSM literature. This re-echoes concerns regarding the dominance of quantitative methods and the limited use of theory in CEM research, and consequently highlights the need for diversity in methodologies to expand knowledge boundaries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-24
Issue: 1
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2007537
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2007537
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:1:p:1-24
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ingrid Svensson
Author-X-Name-First: Ingrid
Author-X-Name-Last: Svensson
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Title: Materiality in action: the role of objects in institutional work
Abstract:
Public property owners currently face a great backlog of renovation work at the same time as there is a need to build new, increase cost-efficiency, and comply with new environmental regulations on energy efficiency. To manage these challenges many public property owners have initiated change processes to develop new strategic ways of working with their properties, often aligned with a project portfolio approach. This involves a quite radical shift of practices in these organizations, which requires individuals to engage in institutional work. Recent studies have highlighted how institutional work is shared between humans and objects. To increase understanding of objects’ role in institutional work through which public property owners develop new practices that support a holistic, long-term, and sustainable property management, we analyzed observational data of strategy project meetings in three Swedish public property owner organizations. Findings show how objects have an active role in institutional work through acts of attacking, justifying, and/or safeguarding to maintain, create and/or disrupt institutions. Objects take on multiple roles and both unite and divide human actors as well as evoke emotions that guide actions. Three types of agency are highlighted: relational, discursive, and emotional. Increased knowledge on the role of objects in institutional work and how objects (can) influence human agency assists actors in making better-informed decisions in strategic change processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 41-55
Issue: 1
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2014063
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2014063
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:1:p:41-55
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Sara Brorström
Author-X-Name-First: Sara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brorström
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Title: The valuation of housing in low-amenity and low purchasing power city districts: social and economic value entangled by default
Abstract:
Urban development projects are based on both calculative practices, in order to render investments in new housing profitable, and on a broader assessment of the value of amenities, qualities associated with housing units such as access to parks and shopping facilities, while not directly being included in presumptive buyers’ prices or rents but still affecting the prices or rents paid because amenities affect market demand. This condition is particularly cumbersome in low-income city districts, and/or in city districts with “negative” amenities, such as visible street crime and a substandard quality of schooling. A study of an urban development project in a “particularly socially vulnerable” city district in Sweden shows how municipally-owned real estate companies and private construction companies need to collaborate with authorities (e.g. the police) and municipal boards (e.g. the education board) to advocate investment in amenities. In order to increase housing stock evaluations, local housing market attractiveness, and the housing welfare of residents in blighted city districts, urban development projects must include, in substantive ways, a variety of perspectives, competencies, and formal decision-making authorities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 72-86
Issue: 1
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2018719
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2018719
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:1:p:72-86
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Johan Larsson
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Larsson
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Author-Name: Sofia Lingegård
Author-X-Name-First: Sofia
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingegård
Author-Name: Anna-Therése Järvenpää
Author-X-Name-First: Anna-Therése
Author-X-Name-Last: Järvenpää
Title: Innovation outcomes and processes in infrastructure projects – a comparative study of Design-Build and Design-Build-Maintenance contracts
Abstract:
Innovation is often seen as essential for long-term development in the construction industry, but its actual outcomes and processes in construction projects require more attention. Many studies on procurement strategies and delivery systems have focussed on the public transport infrastructure sector, whereas most construction innovation scholars have addressed the innovation phenomenon in construction generally. Thus, the purpose of this study is to compare how two delivery systems, design-build (DB) and design-build-maintenance (DBM), influence project-level innovation. Findings are based on empirical data from a multiple case study of six infrastructure projects, three with DB contracts and three with DBM contracts, in which 12 innovations are identified, described, and compared. The findings show that various kinds of innovations in terms of outcomes and processes are implemented in infrastructure projects, and that the delivery system do effect both dimensions. Long maintenance responsibilities tend to spur contractors to engage in early exploration of sustainable solutions that could be of long-term benefit. The research contributes to procurement literature by exemplifying how delivery systems influence both the outcomes and processes of project-level innovations. It also increases our knowledge about construction innovation as a multi-dimensional phenomenon.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 142-156
Issue: 2
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2024864
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2024864
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:2:p:142-156
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Stefan Christoffer Gottlieb
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan Christoffer
Author-X-Name-Last: Gottlieb
Author-Name: Yan Fang
Author-X-Name-First: Yan
Author-X-Name-Last: Fang
Author-Name: Xiaoyu Mo
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaoyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Mo
Title: In search of sustainable construction: the role of building environmental assessment methods as policies enforcing green building
Abstract:
Over the past 20 years, building environmental assessment methods (BEAMs) have been promoted as a means to achieve more sustainable and environmentally friendly (green) buildings, as well as more sustainable practices in the building process at large. These schemes have come to be considered as effective mechanisms to transform building markets and are seen to play a significant role in the mainstreaming of green building practices. In many countries, BEAMs are now used as policy instruments and are increasingly being mandated across a variety of public, but also private, sector projects. In this paper, we examine BEAMs as policy instruments and explore their potential to affect change in construction. Drawing on the theory of strategic action fields, and using the case of HK-BEAM, we discuss the origins, development and application of BEAMs and the limited impact that their mandate has on construction practice. The paper concludes with reflections on the need to further our understanding of how the construction sector works and who has the power, and the will, to make changes in construction practice happen.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 104-122
Issue: 2
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2021259
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2021259
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:2:p:104-122
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joao Soliman-Junior
Author-X-Name-First: Joao
Author-X-Name-Last: Soliman-Junior
Author-Name: Patricia Tzortzopoulos
Author-X-Name-First: Patricia
Author-X-Name-Last: Tzortzopoulos
Author-Name: Mike Kagioglou
Author-X-Name-First: Mike
Author-X-Name-Last: Kagioglou
Title: Designers’ perspective on the use of automation to support regulatory compliance in healthcare building projects
Abstract:
Automation has been long explored to improve regulatory compliance during building design. Despite substantial research efforts on developing means to enable this process, there has been limited success in practical implementations. Designers’ inputs are often undervalued in such developments, leading to solutions that are not effectively incorporated into the design process. This issue is even more difficult in healthcare projects due to their complexity and convoluted regulatory frameworks. In this paper, we describe how designers perceive the use of automation to support regulatory compliance in healthcare projects, through the analysis of a series of semi-structured interviews. We found that regulatory documents have a large influence on design and their compliance often consists of an unformalised process in practice. Furthermore, we identified that subjectivity is perceived in requirements as needed due to the creativity involved in design, whereas automation can be understood as liberating in this context depending on how it is used. Improvement needs focussing on the revision of the regulatory framework as well as on software development have been highlighted by participants during the interviews, which led to the proposition of recommendations to help achieve their benefits in practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 123-141
Issue: 2
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2022176
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2022176
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:2:p:123-141
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Alireza Sharafi
Author-X-Name-First: Alireza
Author-X-Name-Last: Sharafi
Author-Name: Mohsen Sadegh Amalnick
Author-X-Name-First: Mohsen Sadegh
Author-X-Name-Last: Amalnick
Author-Name: Ata Allah Taleizadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Ata Allah
Author-X-Name-Last: Taleizadeh
Title: Optimal readjustment of contract variables and the financial outcome of PPP projects in the operation period
Abstract:
Contract readjustment and renegotiation are inevitable in PPP projects. Tolls, concession length, and government subsidies are the three main variables that provide a set of Pareto payoffs for the private sector and the government during the operation period. This study provides a bargaining approach based on game theory to fairly determine the payoff parties and optimally readjust the contract variables. Unlike previous studies, this model provides a unique optimal solution in all three negotiation areas including Pareto-compensation bargaining, Pareto-improving bargaining, and Pareto-sharing bargaining. The results indicate that the initial forecast range of private profit and expected payoff parties based on the actual performance have significant impacts on the final output. Contrary to popular belief, receiving a higher guarantee from the government in the contract can lead to a reduction in the private's share during the operation period, if excess profits are made. Similarly, reducing the profit cap in the contract can benefit the private sector in the case of a profit shortfall. This model can support strategic renegotiations and provide a fair and optimal structure to readjust contract variables which will facilitate and expedite the decision-making process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 87-103
Issue: 2
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2007536
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2007536
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:2:p:87-103
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ming Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Ming
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Eero Nippala
Author-X-Name-First: Eero
Author-X-Name-Last: Nippala
Author-Name: Kari Kallioharju
Author-X-Name-First: Kari
Author-X-Name-Last: Kallioharju
Author-Name: Sofie Pelsmakers
Author-X-Name-First: Sofie
Author-X-Name-Last: Pelsmakers
Title: Monte Carlo simulation approach to understand the cost variance for energy retrofit projects: comparative study of Finland and the United States
Abstract:
Energy-efficient building is often characterised with higher construction costs. There is a large variance in energy-efficient building construction costs, especially in retrofit projects. A lack of understanding of cost variance and ambiguity of cost-optimal practices has impeded the adoption of energy retrofit practices globally. To respond to such a knowledge gap, a comparative study was conducted on energy retrofit projects on residential buildings in Finland and the United States. A Monte Carlo simulation was used to determine the coefficient of variation for construction costs and the potential reasons behind the variations. The specific aims of this study are (a) to gain a deeper understanding of construction cost variances in energy retrofit projects, (b) to identify the most influential cost items, and (c) to understand the correlations among different cost items. For this analysis, a database including 10 Finnish buildings and 7 US buildings was created, and actual construction cost data was collected. The results showed the following: (1) US projects had a larger total construction cost variance with highly skewed distribution, and Finnish energy retrofit projects had a cost distribution similar to conventional retrofit projects; (2) the two most significant construction cost factors for both countries were non-energy related cost items and the building envelope, rather than the mechanical system (heating and ventilation) as commonly perceived; and (3) the larger construction cost variance in the United States may be associated with the unfamiliarity of energy-efficient technologies and varied construction methods in different regions. The insights and suggestions derived from those findings are discussed in the conclusion.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 207-222
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2034906
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2034906
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:207-222
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Mina Jowkar
Author-X-Name-First: Mina
Author-X-Name-Last: Jowkar
Author-Name: Alenka Temeljotov-Salaj
Author-X-Name-First: Alenka
Author-X-Name-Last: Temeljotov-Salaj
Author-Name: Carmel Margaret Lindkvist
Author-X-Name-First: Carmel Margaret
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindkvist
Author-Name: Marit Støre-Valen
Author-X-Name-First: Marit
Author-X-Name-Last: Støre-Valen
Title: Sustainable building renovation in residential buildings: barriers and potential motivations in Norwegian culture
Abstract:
Retrofit of existing housing increases the possibility of meeting Sustainable Development Goals. Improving quality of life, minimising energy consumption and increasing productivity in buildings process with the aim of affordable housing (social, environmental, and economic sustainability) set new demands for renovation amongst residential housing in Norway. Most studies to date emphasised on mitigation of CO2 emissions in building sector through building renovations. However, recent studies started evaluating why such renovation plans may not be considered by property owners. This study investigates potential barriers and motivations for Sustainable Building Renovations (SBR) from house-owners’ perspective and discusses the role of urban Facility Management (FM) in promoting SBR. Results from a questionnaire survey with 341 citizens in Trondheim city, Norway, confirm economic issues as the main barrier for SBR with respondents suggesting different forms of financial support to resolve these barriers. Social engagement of citizens with public/private partners and neighbours illustrates the collective motivation for SBR. This requires an intermediary role like urban FM engaging citizens to co-create their needs in urban areas with public/private sectors. The output of this study helps to promote urban FM engaging with SBR targets through renovation of neighbourhoods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 161-172
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2027485
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2027485
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:161-172
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: An Thi Hoai Le
Author-X-Name-First: An Thi Hoai
Author-X-Name-Last: Le
Author-Name: Niluka Domingo
Author-X-Name-First: Niluka
Author-X-Name-Last: Domingo
Author-Name: Eziaku Rasheed
Author-X-Name-First: Eziaku
Author-X-Name-Last: Rasheed
Author-Name: Kenneth Park
Author-X-Name-First: Kenneth
Author-X-Name-Last: Park
Title: Strategic collaboration in managing existing buildings in New Zealand's state schools: school managers' perspectives
Abstract:
Collaboration has been considered one of the keys for effectively managing state school properties in New Zealand, with participants combining their abilities to solve challenges and achieve common goals. However, this is challenging due to the multiple stakeholders involved (Ministry staff, external consultants, school boards), process fragmentation, and the stakeholders’ diversity of knowledge. This research aims to develop a collaboration maturity model with process areas, criteria in each process area and rating levels. The criteria were identified from interviews with school managers and then used in a questionnaire survey to investigate the maturity levels of criteria in the collaboration. The assessment results provide insights into the problems or lowest scores criteria that are most needed for improvement. Based on the findings, improvement initiatives have been discussed. From school managers’ perspective, the empirical findings can be translated into actionable knowledge in a way that helps the top management review their collaboration policies regarding staff training, funding allocation, reporting system and information technology.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 173-185
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2027486
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2027486
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:173-185
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Pekka Rajala
Author-X-Name-First: Pekka
Author-X-Name-Last: Rajala
Author-Name: Antti Ylä-Kujala
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Ylä-Kujala
Author-Name: Tiina Sinkkonen
Author-X-Name-First: Tiina
Author-X-Name-Last: Sinkkonen
Author-Name: Timo Kärri
Author-X-Name-First: Timo
Author-X-Name-Last: Kärri
Title: Profitability in construction: how does building renovation business fare compared to new building business
Abstract:
In recent decades, energy-efficiency improvements and ageing dwelling stocks have grown the renovation need in many countries. This research compares the profitability of building renovation companies and companies specializing in new construction using financial statement analysis and analysis of variance. Profitability is assessed through EBITDA and return on assets (ROA). Debt to equity (D/E) ratio as a solvency measure supports the analysis. The findings show micro and small companies in the new building sector have a statistically significant advantage in EBITDA over renovation in same size groups; projects in the renovation sector appear to be more complex, especially in terms of design, causing cost overruns. The more cyclical nature of new construction, however, equalizes EBITDA differences over time. Medium-size companies overall had the lowest EBITDA following the 2008–2009 financial crisis. ROA was generally higher for the renovation sector highlighting the more capital-intensive nature of new construction; unsold apartments and land for future projects hold capital, which results in higher D/E ratios. D/E ratios also revealed that both sectors have faced the COVID-19 pandemic less indebted compared to the 2008–2009 financial crisis. Since both sectors’ profitability has been decreasing during the research period (2005–2019), actions are needed especially in the renovation sector, which has an increasingly important role in developed societies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 223-237
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2032228
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2032228
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:223-237
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Per Anker Jensen
Author-X-Name-First: Per Anker
Author-X-Name-Last: Jensen
Author-Name: Liane Thuvander
Author-X-Name-First: Liane
Author-X-Name-Last: Thuvander
Author-Name: Paula Femenias
Author-X-Name-First: Paula
Author-X-Name-Last: Femenias
Author-Name: Henk Visscher
Author-X-Name-First: Henk
Author-X-Name-Last: Visscher
Title: Sustainable building renovation – strategies and processes
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 157-160
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2045717
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2045717
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:157-160
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Bani Feriel Brahmi
Author-X-Name-First: Bani Feriel
Author-X-Name-Last: Brahmi
Author-Name: Souad Sassi Boudemagh
Author-X-Name-First: Souad
Author-X-Name-Last: Sassi Boudemagh
Author-Name: Ilham Kitouni
Author-X-Name-First: Ilham
Author-X-Name-Last: Kitouni
Author-Name: Aliakbar Kamari
Author-X-Name-First: Aliakbar
Author-X-Name-Last: Kamari
Title: IPD and BIM-focussed methodology in renovation of heritage buildings
Abstract:
Complexity in the sustainable renovation of heritage buildings requires adoption of more sophisticated technologies and project management models to deal with the contradiction between sustainable design and heritage values preservation, as well as enhancing process productivity and final performance. This research aims to assess the application of several Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) strategies and tools through Building Information Modelling (BIM), determining shared collaborative practices across the projects and the level to which the teams were able to implement the tools and processes effectively to enhance sustainability aspects and efficiency of renovating heritages. The research adopts a mixed methodology, Qualitative Comparative Analysis triangulating the collected data. An intensive review of related literature is carried out, besides data collection and analysis of four real-world heritage cases (in different contexts). The research study enables a comprehensive and systematic exploration of the potential use of IPD and BIM within the development of an analytical framework consisting of a set of defined variables including 50 criteria, classified into 15 categories, and grouped into five thematic strands (people, process, policy, technology, and product). The findings reveal that IPD and BIM simultaneous use allows integrating heritage values into holistic decision-making frameworks attaining high-performance outcomes in heritage renovations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 186-206
Issue: 3
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1933557
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1933557
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:3:p:186-206
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ramy Khalef
Author-X-Name-First: Ramy
Author-X-Name-Last: Khalef
Author-Name: Gasser G. Ali
Author-X-Name-First: Gasser G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ali
Author-Name: Islam H. El-adaway
Author-X-Name-First: Islam H.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-adaway
Author-Name: Ghada M. Gad
Author-X-Name-First: Ghada M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gad
Title: Managing construction projects impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic: a contractual perspective
Abstract:
The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) had severe, unforeseen, and prolonged implications on construction projects as well as many other industries. This resulted in severe effect on the supply of material, manufacturing, availability of human resources, and other factors which collectively negatively affected construction processes. To this end, there is a lack of comprehensive studies and understanding concerning that the contractual implications and remedies associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper addresses this knowledge gap. The authors utilise a multi-step research methodology that comprised: (1) studying the contractual interpretation of COVID-19 under the American Institute of Architects (AIA) A-201-2017 as a widely used standard form of contract in the United States; (2) determining the associated contractual remedies for COVID-19; (3) comparing how the aforementioned two issues are handled under the Federation of International Construction Engineers (FIDIC) Red Book 2017, as being a much utilised international standard form of contract that is adopted by the World Bank; (4) developing guidelines and recommendations to be used by owners, contractors, project managers, and contract administrators in planning, handling, and mitigating the contractual implications of the current pandemic; (5) investigating the applicable legal doctrines and principles; and (6) solidifying the research steps and overall research outcomes using the input of legal experts who also helped investigate the relevant common law legal principles that could be associated with COVID-19. The results of this research should promote effective and efficient project management practices under the current new normal and similar interrelated conditions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 313-330
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2031238
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2031238
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:313-330
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ali Vahabi
Author-X-Name-First: Ali
Author-X-Name-Last: Vahabi
Author-Name: Farnad Nasirzadeh
Author-X-Name-First: Farnad
Author-X-Name-Last: Nasirzadeh
Author-Name: Anthony Mills
Author-X-Name-First: Anthony
Author-X-Name-Last: Mills
Title: Influence of briefing clarity on construction projects: a fuzzy hybrid simulation approach
Abstract:
Predicting brief clarity and assessing its impact on project performance at an early stage of the project delivery can aid in mitigating possible cost overruns and delays. However, this is extremely challenging because of two main issues: the complexity of multiple interrelationships between factors influenced by the briefing process, and the lack of data at the early stage of the project delivery. This study proposes a hybrid simulation approach that addresses these issues and models the influence of briefing clarity on project cost and time performance. This was achieved by developing a system dynamics (SD) model of the briefing process. The initial brief clarity is predicted using a fuzzy control system. The fuzzy outcomes were compiled into the SD model, and the obtained hybrid model was validated. Finally, the model was applied to refurbishment projects to evaluate its efficiency. The implication for the refurbishment projects shows that by clearly defining the brief, it significantly reduces the detailed design and construction cost and duration. The results confirm that the proposed hybrid method can be effective in evaluating the impact of briefing clarity on project performance, particularly at an early stage where there is a lack of project data.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 278-295
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037148
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037148
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:278-295
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Wolfgang Grenzfurtner
Author-X-Name-First: Wolfgang
Author-X-Name-Last: Grenzfurtner
Author-Name: Martin Rudberg
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Rudberg
Author-Name: Richard Mayrhofer
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Mayrhofer
Author-Name: Kristina Loike
Author-X-Name-First: Kristina
Author-X-Name-Last: Loike
Author-Name: Manfred Gronalt
Author-X-Name-First: Manfred
Author-X-Name-Last: Gronalt
Title: Performance measurement and management practices of on-site activities in industrialized housebuilding
Abstract:
Measuring the performance of construction site processes is an essential for the continuous improvement in building production efficiency. However, little is known about how this is done by industrialized housebuilding (IHB) companies. The purpose of this paper was to extend the body of knowledge of IHB to on-site performance measurement and management (PMM), thereby identifying reference practices and potential areas for improvement in order to prepare the field for the further development of significant performance management systems (PMS). A multiple case study by means of semi-structured interviews with company managers of eight companies within the IHB sector from three Central European countries has been conducted. The results show that the companies, to a greater or lesser extent, collect data on: customer satisfaction, environmental protection and CO2 emissions, operating efficiency, productivity, quality and work safety. The data can be used to perform performance measurements that provide feedback on these criteria. Reference practices of performance measurements and their benefit are identified. Digital tools are increasingly being used for data collection on construction sites, although paper-based tools such as site and working time reports are still in use. The findings establish a basis for the further development of PMS within the IHB sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 239-253
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037147
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037147
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:239-253
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Joonas Lehtovaara
Author-X-Name-First: Joonas
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehtovaara
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Title: Improving construction management with decentralised production planning and control: exploring the production crew and manager perspectives through a multi-method approach
Abstract:
Decentralised, autonomous planning and control is a potential avenue of improvement in several fields, including construction. However, research on this topic, particularly involving the production crew viewpoint, remains scarce within the construction production management domain. This study explores the effects of decentralisation (and in contrast, effects of centralisation) for construction production planning and control (PP&C) from the combined perspectives of production crews and managers, and utilises these viewpoints to suggest improvements for PP&C practices. The study answers the following research questions: How do decentralisation/centralisation affect construction PP&C practices when considering both the production crew and manager perspectives? and Based on the aforementioned perspectives, how may construction PP&C practices overall be improved? To achieve holistic assessment, the research is conducted as a multi-method comparative case study using survey-based social network analysis (SNA) and semi-structured interviews. The results show that decentralised PP&C offers several benefits—such as improved transparency, conflict resolution, commitment, and lower stress—while allowing a proactive building of resilience, trust, ownership and autonomy for crews. In its current applied form, however, the approach does not fully reach the worker level. Regardless of the approach that is used, production crews perceive PP&C as decentralised, while managers perceive PP&C as having centralised structures. This gap between perceptions forms barriers for effective PP&C that must be properly addressed. Eight improvement suggestions are constructed to improve PP&C, that generally emphasise more deliberate decentralisation but that also indicate the necessity of partial central planning and control.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 254-277
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2039399
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2039399
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:254-277
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jeroen van der Meer
Author-X-Name-First: Jeroen
Author-X-Name-Last: van der Meer
Author-Name: Andreas Hartmann
Author-X-Name-First: Andreas
Author-X-Name-Last: Hartmann
Author-Name: Aad van der Horst
Author-X-Name-First: Aad
Author-X-Name-Last: van der Horst
Author-Name: Geert Dewulf
Author-X-Name-First: Geert
Author-X-Name-Last: Dewulf
Title: Raising risk awareness in multi-criteria design decisions for integrated design and construction tenders
Abstract:
Awareness of design risks is essential for preparing integrated design and construction tenders as decisions in this phase can have serious consequences once the project is awarded. The practice of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) promises to support contractors in dealing with risks in the decision-making process. However, due to limited time and resources in a tender, risks involved in design alternatives are often overlooked and the selection of alternatives is mainly based on the decision-makers’ knowledge and experience. This raises the question how decision makers can become aware of the risks in the tender phase of projects. Following a design science research approach three interventions to raise risk awareness are identified and validated in the context of an infrastructure tender in the Netherlands. These interventions are (1) a general list of defined criteria to identify those criteria that correspond with the characteristics of the tender; (2) mapping identified project risks on criteria and assign a bandwidth score; (3) evaluation of the quality of the decision process by scoring elements of decision quality. Based on these interventions three design rules are proposed to increase the transparency of decision problems and the understanding of choices and, by doing so, create awareness for risks involved in design alternatives.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 296-312
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2030063
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2030063
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:296-312
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Laurie Galardo
Author-X-Name-First: Laurie
Author-X-Name-Last: Galardo
Author-Name: Mélanie Trottier
Author-X-Name-First: Mélanie
Author-X-Name-Last: Trottier
Title: How supervisor, co-worker, and spousal social support influences the experience of workload and work-family conflict: results from a survey of construction workers in Québec
Abstract:
This study investigates the effects of three different sources of social support (supervisor, co-workers, and spouse) on experienced workload and on work-family conflict (WFC) among a population of on-site construction workers in Québec, Canada. The findings of this study contribute to current knowledge by providing evidence of the means by which social support most influences WFC experienced by on-site construction workers (e.g. through workload modulation). More precisely, the study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that social support at work—despite its being limited by so-called masculine culture at the workplace—is instrumental to reduce the adverse effects of workload on WFC. In total, 811 workers in the Québec construction industry took part in this cross-sectional study. Results of mediation analysis show that all sources of social support reduce WFC by diminishing the perception of workload. However, even though workers report less social support from their supervisors than from their spouses, indirect effect analysis shows that supervisor social support is the source that most reduces the perception of workload and, in turn, WFC. Results of the ratio comparison indicate that supervisor and co-worker social support have more important direct impacts on WFC, whereas spousal social support has a more important indirect impact on WFC through a reduction in workload, suggesting that organizations need to foster social support at work (e.g. by promoting a culture of support) in order to ensure that work-family balance is valued at the workplace.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 331-342
Issue: 4
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037674
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037674
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:4:p:331-342
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Robyn Keast
Author-X-Name-First: Robyn
Author-X-Name-Last: Keast
Author-Name: Jo Barraket
Author-X-Name-First: Jo
Author-X-Name-Last: Barraket
Title: A typology of social procurement champions in the construction and engineering industry
Abstract:
Social procurement is re-emerging as an innovative collaborative policy tool for governments around the world to leverage their construction supply chains to help them address intransigent social problems such as long-term unemployment. Such policies challenge deeply rooted institutional norms and structures in the construction industry and research shows that they are being championed by a small and largely undefined group of social procurement professionals who suffer significant role conflict and ambiguity. Contributing new insights to this nascent research, this paper traces etymological definitions of champion roles, merging them with organisational theory to present a new typology of social procurement champions in the construction industry. Drawing on a thematic analysis of snowballed interviews with fifteen recognised champions of social procurement in the Australian construction industry, findings highlight four distinct types of social procurement champion: champions of organisations; champions of the concept; champions of people; and champions of a solution. It is found that there is no one pure type of social procurement champion. Rather, champions have to adapt their social procurement roles to the highly dynamic and varied organisation contexts in which they operate. These findings advance the emerging social procurement debate within and outside construction by highlighting the many different roles which are needed to implement social innovations like social procurement into a project-based industry like construction. It is concluded that organisations which see this as one person’s responsibility are likely to fail in implementing these new policy reforms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 391-405
Issue: 5
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2043554
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2043554
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:5:p:391-405
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ingrid Svensson
Author-X-Name-First: Ingrid
Author-X-Name-Last: Svensson
Title: Exploring the connection between emotions, artefacts and institutional work: the case of institutional change for public facilities management
Abstract:
Public facilities management (PFM) is currently moving from being an institution driven by ad-hoc practices to now introducing long-term and strategic practices. During this institutional change, human actors engage in institutional work to create new practices. However, old practices seem to be maintained within PFM to a large extend. Why? Data were collected through case studies in two public facilities management organizations, an interview study in eight organizations from the institution of PFM and a workshop with representatives from the institutional field of PFM. Findings show how the changing institutional setting for the institution of PFM produce negative emotions. To manage these, human actors engage in institutional work and here they employ artefacts as means to drive change. These artefacts functioned in various ways to reduce negative feelings by inducing a sense of safety (as soft blankets), by enabling the avoidance of dealing with ‘the truth’ (as shields) and by offering hope (as a vision of perfect future). Thereby, they did not take part in creating change, as much as they took part in maintaining current practices. The unintended consequences of the usage of artefacts, explain why practices are maintained during institutional change for PFM.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 343-358
Issue: 5
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2053997
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2053997
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:5:p:343-358
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: David Oswald
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Oswald
Author-Name: Helen Lingard
Author-X-Name-First: Helen
Author-X-Name-Last: Lingard
Author-Name: Rita Peihua Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Rita Peihua
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: How transactional and transformational safety leadership behaviours are demonstrated within the construction industry
Abstract:
Transactional and transformational safety leadership have been repeatedly found to be important for safety. Yet how transactional and transformational leadership behaviours are most effectively demonstrated can be dependent on the context and industry. Using an ethnographic approach, supervisor safety leadership was explored across eleven construction sites in Australia. The findings revealed that, within the construction site context, contingent reward, idealised influence, and management-by-exception behaviours demonstrated by supervisors closely aligned with their definitions in Full-Range Leadership Theory (FRLT). These three types of leadership behaviour reflect observation of supervisors’ positive actions, which included: praising workers for good safety performance; proactively anticipating and attending to safety issues; and consistently leading-by-example with safety, even at times of significant production pressure. Other theoretically described dimensions of leadership behaviour, i.e. individual consideration, inspirational motivation, and intellectual stimulation, were not directly reflected in observed supervisors’ behaviour in the way they are conceptualised in FRLT. The existence of a good supervisor-worker relationship enabled workers to comfortably raise safety issues, think creatively about how to undertake work safely, and talk to their supervisor if they were experiencing personal problems. These are motivational, intellectual, and empathetic elements of leadership, which do not directly align with the way leadership behaviours are conceptualised in mainstream FRLT. The study suggests that, in the construction worksite context, leadership behaviours may take a form that differs from theoretical ideal types and that ethnographically attained insights into supervisors’ interactions with workers can contribute to understanding transformational and transactional leadership in practical terms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 374-390
Issue: 5
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2053998
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2053998
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:5:p:374-390
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Tamima S. Elbashbishy
Author-X-Name-First: Tamima S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Elbashbishy
Author-Name: Gasser G. Ali
Author-X-Name-First: Gasser G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ali
Author-Name: Islam H. El-adaway
Author-X-Name-First: Islam H.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-adaway
Title: Blockchain technology in the construction industry: mapping current research trends using social network analysis and clustering
Abstract:
Blockchain represents an evolving technology for distributed and secure recording and sharing of information. Meanwhile, blockchain has thrived in banking, finance, and supply chain; its usage within the construction industry is still in its infancy. To this end, the existing literature falls short in providing comprehensive quantitative understanding, within a systems-based analytic context, of the factors affecting blockchain utilization in construction applications. This paper fills this knowledge gap. The authors: (1) conducted an extensive literature review on blockchain implementation in the construction domain; (2) identified a list of 41 factors affecting blockchain implementation in construction projects categorized in four categories: challenges, needs, requirements, and capabilities; (3) utilized a social network analysis (SNA) approach on a database of 111 publications to quantitatively analyze the literature as related to the aforementioned factors; and (4) performed clustering analysis on the SNA graphs to determine the combinations of factors that are most likely co-occurring in research publications. SNA results indicate that while the most investigated factor was “increased trust and transparency between project parties”, the least studied factors included: “cash upfront funding system”, “change payment processes and procedures”, “smart contracts design errors”, “cryptocurrency fluctuations”, “lack of sufficiently skilled personnel”, and “increased awareness and capabilities of personnel”. Also, clustering outcomes highlight that some combinations of factors are not well-represented in current scholarly efforts. Such imbalance and consequent knowledge gaps may contribute to the actual implementation rate of blockchain in construction applications. Ultimately, this paper provides a roadmap for potential future directions of blockchain construction-related research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 406-427
Issue: 5
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2056216
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2056216
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:5:p:406-427
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Richard Brett
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Brett
Author-Name: Derek Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Derek
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Exploring craft in construction with short-term ethnography: reflections on a researcher’s prior insight
Abstract:
Ethnography offers a route to knowing about the everyday activities of construction workers, but its long duration is not always suited to the site environment or the researcher’s resources and the workers themselves are constantly changing. Short-term ethnography is an alternative to the traditional format that permits a shorter length of fieldwork activity in return for intense engagement between the researcher and their participants. The rich points that make up an ethnographic account need to be actively sought in short-term ethnography. This can be achieved by utilizing the prior construction experiences of the researcher. The researcher enters the field with an emic insight that can be used to seek out events and allows the production of meaningful ethnography from a shorter, more intense fieldwork period, learning much from individual workers before they move on. Engagement extends beyond the onsite interactions through the use of video cameras to record everyday activities. Examples from two short-term ethnographies of two deliberately different sites explain how, in the search for craft traits among construction workers, the fieldworker is able to mobilize emic insight and craft theory to seek out rich points in everyday events which are typically serendipitous in nature. This account serves to provide a demonstration of how the very real tensions between the limitations of project context as a field site and the need for methodological rigour can be reconciled through careful attention to reflexive ethnographic practice.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 359-373
Issue: 5
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2046827
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2046827
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:5:p:359-373
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ying Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Xiaoyu Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaoyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Shuibo Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Shuibo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Jinyue Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Jinyue
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Qing Guo
Author-X-Name-First: Qing
Author-X-Name-Last: Guo
Title: BIM application and collaboration in construction projects: a perspective of the Chinese construction market
Abstract:
Although building information modelling (BIM) is endowed with the potential for collaboration, the nature of the relationship between BIM application and collaboration has not been well-elaborated. This research classifies collaboration into the two dimensions of cooperation and coordination and empirically tests a model to understand not only the effect of BIM application on collaboration in construction projects but also the moderating effects of fairness perception and contract specificity. Using 296 samples from the Chinese construction industry, this research reveals the existence of a positive relationship between BIM application and collaboration. In addition, fairness perception weakens the relationship between BIM application and both collaboration dimensions of cooperation and coordination, while contract specificity strengthens the effect of BIM application on the coordination dimension only. These findings offer new insights through a nuanced understanding of the nature of the relationship between BIM application and collaboration, providing useful guidance for BIM application in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 429-441
Issue: 6
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2080240
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2080240
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:6:p:429-441
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Rickard Andersson
Author-X-Name-First: Rickard
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersson
Author-Name: Martine Buser
Author-X-Name-First: Martine
Author-X-Name-Last: Buser
Title: From waste to resource management? Construction and demolition waste management through the lens of institutional work
Abstract:
The European Union has issued action plans to reduce the production of construction waste and increase the reuse and recycling of materials in the hope of triggering a rapid transition towards a Circular Economy (CE). The management of construction and demolition waste, however, struggles to apply these measures. Our purpose, therefore, is to analyse how different actors involved in the management of waste could contribute to transform existing practices so that they respond to the shifting demands of legislation and support CE. To understand how this transformation work is performed, we build on the concept of institutional work, which enables us to describe how actors, rather than accepting institutions as permanent and immovable, contribute to their development by creating, maintaining or disrupting the existing institution. Drawing on qualitative research methods, we collected empirical data through 31 semi-structured interviews, observations of meetings and site visits. Our results show that whereas the production of waste is somewhat reduced, and the sorting of fractions improved, the institutional work performed is not sufficient to translate sustainability into new economic values. Although the work performed legitimizes CE principles and enables new initiatives, it mostly fails to change normative associations and to define new rules of action that support CE.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 477-496
Issue: 6
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2081989
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2081989
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:6:p:477-496
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Yuanxin Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Yuanxin
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Zeyu Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Zeyu
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Wenhao Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Wenhao
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Author-Name: R. Edward Minchin
Author-X-Name-First: R. Edward
Author-X-Name-Last: Minchin
Author-Name: Xiaolong Xue
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaolong
Author-X-Name-Last: Xue
Title: Understanding the slow diffusion of alternative delivery systems using interpretive structural modelling
Abstract:
The slow uptake of the alternative delivery systems (ADSs) can potentially waste an astronomical amount of precious public funds that can be used to meet other critical needs (e.g. education and healthcare). The existing literature mainly focussed on performance evaluation of the ADSs and few provided decision support to select ADSs matching a particular project’s characteristics or external environment. Nonetheless, there lacks of research exploring the slow diffusion of ADSs, especially a deep understanding of the interaction mechanisms of the influencing factors. This research aims to increase the use of ADSs in practice. To achieve the objective, based on the data retrieved from literature, case study and interviews, this study, therefore, aims to: identify the internal and external influencing factors; reveal the interplays of these factors using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) and analyse the driving and dependence power of the factors based on Matrice d’Impacts Croisés-Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement analysis (MICMAC). Based on the 25 identified factors, the ISM built a hierarchical structural model, which reveals the interaction mechanism of the factors and the fundamental factors. The MICMAC analysis discovered the high driving, high dependent, transitive/linkage and independent factors on the diffusion of ADSs. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge about what and how the factors influencing the slow diffusion of ADSs and help contractor administrators formulate effective strategies to improve the usage of ADSs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 459-476
Issue: 6
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2081990
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2081990
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:6:p:459-476
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Paul Bowen
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Bowen
Author-Name: Kamal Yakubu
Author-X-Name-First: Kamal
Author-X-Name-Last: Yakubu
Author-Name: Rajen Govender
Author-X-Name-First: Rajen
Author-X-Name-Last: Govender
Title: Predictors of moderate to high risk of alcohol harm among site-based South African construction workers
Abstract:
Alcohol consumption is an accepted part of many social and cultural practices, but excessive alcohol consumption is a global public health concern. Aside of its detrimental effects on health, it is linked to HIV-related health behaviours such as unprotected sex, multiple/concurrent sexual partnerships, and lower levels of HIV testing. Little is known about the association between alcohol use and HIV-related heath behaviours in construction. Using data from 450 workers drawn from 18 construction sites in the Western Cape, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was used to predict alcohol risk of harm as a function of demographic characteristics and sex-related behaviours among workers. Binary logistic regression determined factors associated with increased risk of alcohol harm. The most proximal factor predicting risk of alcohol harm was the frequency of alcohol or drug use before and/or during sex, followed by attitude towards condom use, education, and HIV testing behaviour. Future research efforts should develop a better appreciation of the role of sex-related alcohol expectancies in explaining harmful alcohol use, and intervention management practices should focus on this.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 442-458
Issue: 6
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2080241
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2080241
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:6:p:442-458
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Daniela Dietz Viana
Author-X-Name-First: Daniela Dietz
Author-X-Name-Last: Viana
Author-Name: Carlos Torres Formoso
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Torres
Author-X-Name-Last: Formoso
Author-Name: Fernanda Saidelles Bataglin
Author-X-Name-First: Fernanda Saidelles
Author-X-Name-Last: Bataglin
Title: Requirements for developing production planning and control systems for engineer-to-order industrialized building systems
Abstract:
Several efforts for industrializing construction have been made in different countries, and there has been a growing demand for engineer-to-order (ETO) industrialized building systems. In this context, products are unique for specific clients, as customer orders are placed at the design stage. There are many challenges for planning and controlling those building systems, due to the high level of complexity involved. The aim of this research is to propose a set of core requirements for production planning and control systems in ETO industrialized building systems. The methodological approach adopted in this investigation was design science research. It was based on a literature review on different planning and control models, and also on an empirical study carried out in a steel fabricator company. The proposed set of requirements is aligned with the management-as-organizing approach, challenging some traditional project management assumptions, including the use of metrics and practices that are not suitable for the high degree of complexity that exists in ETO environments. As a practical contribution, the requirements can be used by ETO construction supplier companies to support the conception and development of planning and control systems.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 638-652
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2062778
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2062778
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:638-652
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Zofia K. Rybkowski
Author-X-Name-First: Zofia K.
Author-X-Name-Last: Rybkowski
Author-Name: Paz Arroyo
Author-X-Name-First: Paz
Author-X-Name-Last: Arroyo
Author-Name: Kristen Parrish
Author-X-Name-First: Kristen
Author-X-Name-Last: Parrish
Title: Assessment of current target value design practices: consistencies and inconsistencies of application
Abstract:
Target Value Design (TVD) refers to the application of Target Costing (TC) to the delivery of projects with the involvement of owners, architects, engineers, and constructors (OAEC). TVD has been adopted by the construction community to avoid project cost overruns while simultaneously improving value. TVD implementation involves a number of practices: clearly identify owner value, develop an inclusive interdisciplinary team organization, provide appropriate financial and contractual incentives, create a culture of respect, and steer to cost and value targets with TVD tools. While application of TVD has grown, not all results are as favourable as they might be. It is possible that TVD application may be piecemeal at times—potentially because the impacts of individual practices are unknown. This paper explores a fundamental research question: how consistent or inconsistent is the application of TVD principles, practices, and tools? To address this question, the authors reviewed 29 academic publications on TVD, surveyed 14 TVD practitioners through an anonymous on-line survey, and hosted two open-ended focus groups with 6 TVD facilitators. Results indicate that some—but not all—TVD practices are consistently being implemented, which may suggest one cause for observed variability of outcomes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 598-617
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037146
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037146
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:598-617
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: To trust or not to trust: is trust a prerequisite for solving design quality problems?
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 653-653
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2076392
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2076392
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:653-653
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: Iris D. Tommelein
Author-X-Name-First: Iris D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tommelein
Author-Name: Carlos T. Formoso
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Formoso
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Title: Festschrift honouring Dr. Glenn Ballard
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 497-506
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2076391
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2076391
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:497-506
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Ergo Pikas
Author-X-Name-First: Ergo
Author-X-Name-Last: Pikas
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Title: Causality and interpretation: a new design model inspired by the Aristotelian legacy
Abstract:
Building design and design management practices are beset by many problems to which satisfactory solutions have not yet emerged. The recognition of the Aristotelian legacy on design theorization has given rise to the proposition that the development of a new design concept that integrates the technical and social aspects of design might provide a general solution. This study aims to chart the intellectual history of the design discipline, clarify core design terms, concepts, and relationships, and propose a design model that integrates technical and social phenomena. An integrative literature review is a basis for the assessment and synthesis of representative literature and the construction of the new design model. The new design model, presenting the integrated design process structure for technical and social design activities, is the main contribution of this study. The model was constructed based on the identification of design theory core elements and relationships and the ancient design theories (the method of analysis and rhetoric).
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 507-525
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1934884
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1934884
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:507-525
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Nuno Gil
Author-X-Name-First: Nuno
Author-X-Name-Last: Gil
Title: Megaprojects: a meandering journey towards a theory of purpose, value creation and value distribution
Abstract:
This paper departs from a reflection of how my time as a doctoral student in the late nineties with the lean construction group at U.C. Berkeley influenced my (ongoing) research journey. I first recall how those early years led to my core empirical and theoretical interests on the management of ‘megaprojects’ - the project-based, multi-party contexts that are set up by one or more organisational actors with the aim of developing capital-intensive, long-lived infrastructure resources. I also analyse the challenges that I faced in the pursuit of a theoretical perspective with power to predict and explain empirical regularities on megaproject behaviour, and thus capable of illuminating the pervasiveness of major cost and schedule slippages as well as scope creep. As well as this, I discuss how the discovery of Elinor Ostrom’s commons governance theory was a watershed in my research journey. Then, drawing from organisational governance literature, I introduce and illustrate a model of the evolution of the governance structure of a megaproject over the project life cycle. I harness this model to draw inferences on megaproject organisational boundaries, on megaproject behaviour, and on how megaprojects create both economic and social value. Further, after conceptualising a megaproject as a purposeful interorganizational form of organising capital production, I discuss feedback loops and contingency variables that affect the gap between intended and realised project behaviour. I conclude with a discussion on how to leverage an organisational perspective of megaprojects to realise the potential of capital investment in new infrastructure to create value, as well as to engender trust in megaprojects, and thus mend their fractured relationship with society.Each era’s theories and prevailing arguments, in part, reflect the preoccupations of the times and coevolve with them1
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 562-584
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1946832
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1946832
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:562-584
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Cecilia Gravina da Rocha
Author-X-Name-First: Cecilia
Author-X-Name-Last: Gravina da Rocha
Author-Name: Samuel Korb
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Korb
Author-Name: Rafael Sacks
Author-X-Name-First: Rafael
Author-X-Name-Last: Sacks
Title: Work structuring and product design for customized repetitive projects
Abstract:
Ballard’s concept of work structuring for production planning in construction can be applied to improve production flow in construction projects formed by repetitive units with extensive customization. Customization can increase the value of repetitive units (apartments in a building, houses in an allotment, or stores in a shopping mall) forming a project, by meeting clients’ specific requirements. However, in traditional construction production systems, it commonly causes delays, stoppages, rework, increased amounts of work in progress, and excessive movement of crews and materials. The problem has been thoroughly documented and various production systems have been designed to address the trade-off between flow and value. We identify five such systems, which were originally developed following exploratory design science principles. In this work, we analyse and compare them using nine metrics to assess their performance in terms of flow and value, and to explore the role of work structuring in customized projects. The systems with the most effective flow are the Fit-Out Company and the Ecosystem Platform systems. The analysis led to the theoretical proposition of a hybrid production system called Product/Process Modularization, which may be applied and tested in the future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 526-547
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1936100
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1936100
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:526-547
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jardar Lohne
Author-X-Name-First: Jardar
Author-X-Name-Last: Lohne
Author-Name: Olav Torp
Author-X-Name-First: Olav
Author-X-Name-Last: Torp
Author-Name: Bjørn Andersen
Author-X-Name-First: Bjørn
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersen
Author-Name: Sigmund Aslesen
Author-X-Name-First: Sigmund
Author-X-Name-Last: Aslesen
Author-Name: Lena Bygballe
Author-X-Name-First: Lena
Author-X-Name-Last: Bygballe
Author-Name: Trond Bølviken
Author-X-Name-First: Trond
Author-X-Name-Last: Bølviken
Author-Name: Frode Drevland
Author-X-Name-First: Frode
Author-X-Name-Last: Drevland
Author-Name: Atle Engebø
Author-X-Name-First: Atle
Author-X-Name-Last: Engebø
Author-Name: Roar Fosse
Author-X-Name-First: Roar
Author-X-Name-Last: Fosse
Author-Name: Hans Thomas Holm
Author-X-Name-First: Hans Thomas
Author-X-Name-Last: Holm
Author-Name: Lars Kristian Hunn
Author-X-Name-First: Lars Kristian
Author-X-Name-Last: Hunn
Author-Name: Bo Terje Kalsaas
Author-X-Name-First: Bo Terje
Author-X-Name-Last: Kalsaas
Author-Name: Ole Jonny Klakegg
Author-X-Name-First: Ole Jonny
Author-X-Name-Last: Klakegg
Author-Name: Vegard Knotten
Author-X-Name-First: Vegard
Author-X-Name-Last: Knotten
Author-Name: Kai Haakon Kristensen
Author-X-Name-First: Kai Haakon
Author-X-Name-Last: Kristensen
Author-Name: Nils Olof Emanuel Olsson
Author-X-Name-First: Nils Olof Emanuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Olsson
Author-Name: Asbjørn Rolstadås
Author-X-Name-First: Asbjørn
Author-X-Name-Last: Rolstadås
Author-Name: John Skaar
Author-X-Name-First: John
Author-X-Name-Last: Skaar
Author-Name: Fredrik Svalestuen
Author-X-Name-First: Fredrik
Author-X-Name-Last: Svalestuen
Author-Name: Hajnalka Vaagen
Author-X-Name-First: Hajnalka
Author-X-Name-Last: Vaagen
Author-Name: Paulos Wondimu
Author-X-Name-First: Paulos
Author-X-Name-Last: Wondimu
Author-Name: Ola Laedre
Author-X-Name-First: Ola
Author-X-Name-Last: Laedre
Title: The emergence of lean construction in the Norwegian AEC industry
Abstract:
Lean construction has inspired the AEC industry globally over the last decades, and this manifests within a wide array of contexts. The purpose of this paper is to provide a narrative-based qualitative analysis of the emergence and impact of Lean construction on a national level, notably in the Norwegian AEC industry. The analysis is based on the concept of paradigm shift and on empirical knowledge in the form of narratives. The narratives of practitioners and researchers provide deep insights into how Lean Construction has inspired the Norwegian AEC industry and academia, respectively. The reflections indicate that the introduction of the Lean construction principles and tools in the Norwegian AEC industry has depended on promoters who have been convinced about its advantages. The role of active promoters – in particular Dr. Glenn Ballard – is underlined as key to successful introduction of Lean Construction. Key cultural features of the Norwegian AEC industry are emphasized as important success factors. Lean Construction in Norway needs to be understood as a phenomenon occurring within a setting that is generally advantageous but also following an effort carried out on several levels. Key elements that can be used within other contexts are (1) the existence of promoters, (2) cooperation between industry and academic circles, (3) a high degree of trust and (4) a predominance of bottom-up organizations within the industry with few levels of hierarchy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 585-597
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1975041
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1975041
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:585-597
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Jan A. Elfving
Author-X-Name-First: Jan A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Elfving
Title: A decade of lessons learned: deployment of lean at a large general contractor
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to describe lean experiments from a period that lasted over a decade. The aim is to provide insights for both industry practitioners and academics concerning what worked and what did not work and to discuss barriers to avoid when taking academic concepts to industry. What makes this paper unique is that we are following the developments inside one company, Skanska Finland, uninterrupted for over a decade. Dr Glenn Ballard was closely involved in the developments and deployments throughout the journey. The paper confirms earlier findings of managing variability prior to other process improvements. At the same time, it is important to understand the minimum organisational level needed when developing and deploying lean methods. During our journey, the most successful deployment was the Last Planner System®; it has been both robust against market turns but also it has been possible to deploy it project-by-project. Thus, there is no need to wait until the whole company or a large part of it has understood the concept before deployment can start. Supplier development requires a wider scope than just a single project or the duration of a project for successful deployment. The weak or less sustainable deployment of logistics solutions in the construction industry may be because it requires industry-level technology standardisation and data platforms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 548-561
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1938161
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1938161
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:548-561
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
Author-Name: Chuanni He
Author-X-Name-First: Chuanni
Author-X-Name-Last: He
Author-Name: Min Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Min
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Thais da C. L. Alves
Author-X-Name-First: Thais da C. L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Alves
Author-Name: Natalie M. Scala
Author-X-Name-First: Natalie M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scala
Author-Name: Simon M. Hsiang
Author-X-Name-First: Simon M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hsiang
Title: Prioritizing collaborative scheduling practices based on their impact on project performance
Abstract:
Collaborative scheduling (CS) and related practices impact the performance of construction projects which can be measured by key performance indicators (KPIs). However, little is known about which of these practices are implemented and how their combined implementation might impact KPIs. The objectives of this research are to identify perceptions of CS practices that drive project performance, define CS practices used by industry that impact KPIs, and establish practices that are more commonly implemented and have a higher potential to positively impact KPIs. The research team conducted a nationwide survey in the United States and obtained 241 usable responses. Utilizing an information theory approach to measure the uncertainty of implementation and impact of each practice, the research built a set of Chow–Liu tree models to determine the most efficient sequence of actions to improve CS. Results indicate that meeting owners’ expectation throughout the life-cycle of the project from design through construction and commissioning, using the schedule to support a strong project culture, and an effective communication plan were the top CS levers for overall KPI improvement. An innovative method was developed to help construction project managers discover the value of each CS practice, the relation between CS practices, and CS practices’ influence to project KPIs so that managers can improve KPIs efficiently by prioritizing their CS practices according to their own project needs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 618-637
Issue: 7-8
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2048042
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2048042
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:7-8:p:618-637
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# input file: RCME_A_2085313_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220804T044749 git hash: 24b08f8188
Author-Name: Beibei Qin
Author-X-Name-First: Beibei
Author-X-Name-Last: Qin
Author-Name: Stuart D. Green
Author-X-Name-First: Stuart D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Green
Title: The micro-practices of project organizing in the Chinese construction sector: a sensemaking perspective
Abstract:
The organization of construction in the People’s Republic of China has over recent decades undergone radical restructuring. The announcement of Deng Xiaoping’s Open Door strategy in 1978 marked the beginning of the transition towards the espoused socialist market economy and the progressive introduction of market mechanisms. Existing research tends to focus on the derivation of “critical success factors” rather than the lived realities of those directly involved. In contrast, the current paper adopts a sensemaking perspective that privileges the transient roles and identities of those involved in the micro-processes of project organizing. The empirical focus lies on the sensemaking narratives of middle managers within three state-owned construction enterprises in the Chongqing city region. The findings illustrate how market mechanisms such as bidding and tendering play out in complex ways involving hybrid arrangements between new and pre-existing ways of working. The terminology of project management is seen to have played a performative role in establishing the “project” as the essential unit around which the socialist market is organized. Middle managers are further found to maintain multiple identities in response to the experienced paradoxes of the socialist market economy. The research provides new insights into the micro-processes of project organizing in China with broader implications for transitional economies elsewhere.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 655-675
Issue: 9
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2085313
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2085313
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:9:p:655-675
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# input file: RCME_A_2099561_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220804T044749 git hash: 24b08f8188
Author-Name: Nannan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Nannan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Hongmei Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Hongmei
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Kui Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Kui
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: The dynamics of changes in PPP projects – a meta-case analysis approach
Abstract:
Changes in public-private partnership (PPP) projects are inevitable and often lead to project failure, hence, the management of changes in PPP projects are more challenging than with traditional projects. The complex nature of changes in PPP projects, however, lacks systematic investigation and a quantitative approach in current literature. To fill this gap, this study considers the development process of major changes in PPP projects from a whole-life cycle perspective. The findings reveal significant relationships between causes and negative change results, as well as the enlarged interactive effects of certain causes. Most of the negative changes occur at the operational stage and vary across different types of project and regions, but the pre-contract stage is the most critical stage to prevent future negative changes. Hence, more proactive change management strategies are suggested for the government decision makers and project managers. This study contributes to the body of knowledge in PPP literature by providing a meta-case analysis approach, which can improve the accuracy of case selection and facilitate statistical analysis. The findings can help the researchers and practitioners to better understand the nature of changes and manage them in a more efficient way.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 727-742
Issue: 9
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2099561
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2099561
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:9:p:727-742
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# input file: RCME_A_2098990_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220804T044749 git hash: 24b08f8188
Author-Name: Petter Haglund
Author-X-Name-First: Petter
Author-X-Name-Last: Haglund
Author-Name: Martin Rudberg
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Rudberg
Author-Name: Ahmet Anil Sezer
Author-X-Name-First: Ahmet Anil
Author-X-Name-Last: Sezer
Title: Organizing logistics to achieve strategic fit in building contractors: a configurations approach
Abstract:
Previous research indicates that the success of logistics solutions in building projects depends on how they are organized in accordance with the logistics context, which is determined by building contractors’ competitive priorities, product characteristics, and production process choices. Taking a configurations approach, the purpose of this paper is to describe the fit between the logistics context and the organizing of logistics at a strategic level. A conceptual research framework is derived from literature postulating an influence of the logistics context on the organizing of logistics. The framework is applied to four cases by the means of strategic profiling, which provides a snapshot of the fit in the cases’ logistics configurations. The findings indicate that the type of production process influences the degree to which logistics decisions should be made centrally and that the degree of standardization and pre-engineering influence the degree to which logistics processes should be formalized. The main contributions are the identification of logistics configuration variables and the description of the fit between building contractors’ logistics context and the organizing of logistics. For managerial practice, a logistics configuration profiling template was developed that can be used as a tool in the logistic strategy process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 711-726
Issue: 9
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2098990
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2098990
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:9:p:711-726
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# input file: RCME_A_2094434_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220804T044749 git hash: 24b08f8188
Author-Name: Juan Francisco Azcarate-Aguerre
Author-X-Name-First: Juan Francisco
Author-X-Name-Last: Azcarate-Aguerre
Author-Name: Mira Conci
Author-X-Name-First: Mira
Author-X-Name-Last: Conci
Author-Name: Markus Zils
Author-X-Name-First: Markus
Author-X-Name-Last: Zils
Author-Name: Peter Hopkinson
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Hopkinson
Author-Name: Tillmann Klein
Author-X-Name-First: Tillmann
Author-X-Name-Last: Klein
Title: Building energy retrofit-as-a-service: a Total Value of Ownership assessment methodology to support whole life-cycle building circularity and decarbonisation
Abstract:
The regulatory drive to accelerate the clean energy and circular economy transitions in the European building stock is currently failing to overcome systemic implementation barriers. These barriers include high initial investment costs, misaligned financial incentives among stakeholders, and the relatively low cost of less sustainable energy and materials. A Product-Service Systems (PSS) approach could successfully overcome many of these barriers by (1) outsourcing capital investment, as well as financial and technical risks, (2) providing shared economic incentives to collaborating stakeholders, and (3) retaining extended producer responsibility and ownership over materials and products. However, PSS is still not seen as a viable business model when compared to both a standard “ownership” contract and a “no-retrofit” scenario. This paper proposes a Total Value of Ownership (TVO) method to evaluate the financial performance of a building energy retrofit in terms of Net Present Value, comparing a matrix of scenarios. Results show that – when accounting for capital and opportunity costs tied to alternative investments, internalising externalities, and monetising soft values such as user productivity and property value – a PSS model can deliver the highest NPV. Furthermore, results show that a PSS alternative can act as a positive future-proofing strategy to safeguard the building owner’s position in the face of uncertain future market indicators and carbon taxation. Recommendations for policymakers, investors, financiers, building owners, and end-users are presented to identify the economic value of PSS contracts, leading to better-informed decisions which can accelerate deep energy retrofit of the building stock.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 676-689
Issue: 9
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2094434
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2094434
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:9:p:676-689
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# input file: RCME_A_2098508_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220804T044749 git hash: 24b08f8188
Author-Name: Firehiwot Kedir
Author-X-Name-First: Firehiwot
Author-X-Name-Last: Kedir
Author-Name: Qian Chen
Author-X-Name-First: Qian
Author-X-Name-Last: Chen
Author-Name: Daniel M. Hall
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hall
Author-Name: Bryan T. Adey
Author-X-Name-First: Bryan T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Adey
Author-Name: Richard Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: Richard
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: Formative scenario analysis of the factors influencing the adoption of industrialised construction in countries with high housing demand – the cases of Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Africa
Abstract:
The use of industrialised construction can help meet the growing housing demand for developing economies in Africa. In order to understand future scenarios for accelerated adoption of industrialised construction, it is necessary to identify the influencing factors. To do so, this paper conducts a formative scenario analysis which is a literature- and expert-based method, focussing on three countries that have high housing demands, i.e. Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Africa. The resulting analysis consists of three parts. The first is the identification of nineteen internal and external influencing factors. These factors range from product performance to policies and regulations. The second is the illustration of the importance of each factor as a function of its relationship with the other factors. The third is the description of three possible scenarios the adoption of industrialised construction may take in the three investigated countries. The findings show that the most important accelerators for the adoption of industrialised construction come from governments’ commitment to invest in future construction and incentivize companies to adopt industrial construction methods and for these companies to produce competitive products. The specific adoption policies to be implemented, however, depend greatly on the specific situation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 690-710
Issue: 9
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2098508
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2098508
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:9:p:690-710
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# input file: RCME_A_2110273_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Duy Tan Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Duy Tan
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Phuoc Luong Le
Author-X-Name-First: Phuoc Luong
Author-X-Name-Last: Le
Title: Twenty-year application of logistics and supply chain management in the construction industry
Abstract:
The last decades have seen a growing interest in construction management amongst scholars, particularly, in how to apply supply chain management (SCM) strategies to improve logistics efficiency and project performance. Nevertheless, there is a lack of systematic literature reviews (SLRs) which integrate multiple quantitative methods to synthesise the literature on construction logistics and supply chain management (CLSCM) and analyse their trends during the last two decades. In this work, we concurrently deploy the rigorous six-step SLR protocol together with co-citation analysis, factor analysis, multidimensional scaling-based fuzzy k-means clustering, and keyword extraction and co-occurrence analysis to ascertain and examine clusters of CLSCM application. The results show that there are six established research clusters in CLSCM, namely, logistics and SCM for prefabricated construction, construction procurement, construction supply chain integration, green construction SCM, reverse logistics in construction and onsite construction logistics. Amongst these clusters, construction supply chain integration plays the most integral role. Informed by this ascertained knowledge structure, we explore the research trends during the period reviewed, propose a conceptual framework for CLSCM and suggest research avenues.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 796-834
Issue: 10
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2110273
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2110273
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:10:p:796-834
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# input file: RCME_A_2110602_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Jessica Borg
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Borg
Author-Name: Christina M. Scott-Young
Author-X-Name-First: Christina M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott-Young
Title: Contributing factors to turnover intentions of early career project management professionals in construction
Abstract:
The construction industry is facing global skills shortages, with demand for certain roles (such as project managers) projected to outstrip supply over the next decade. With the industry serving as the backbone of the economy in many countries, this projected lack of skilled construction professionals poses dire consequences. This qualitative study investigated the early career transition of project management (PM) professionals into the construction industry. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 employer representatives and 20 early career professionals to ascertain the factors affecting the turnover intentions of early career PM professionals in construction. From the perspective of the early participants in this study, the major factors affecting their intentions to leave were related to workplace culture: (i) bad workplace behaviour; (ii) high levels of work-related stress; and (iii) poor work-life balance. While employers also noted that bullying and long working hours contributed to early career PM professionals’ intentions to leave the industry, they believed that the key contributing factor was that young employees were seeking higher salaries. These findings on the need to improve workplace culture have the potential to positively influence the issue of early career retention within the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 835-853
Issue: 10
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2110602
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2110602
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# input file: RCME_A_2108863_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Suhair Alkilani
Author-X-Name-First: Suhair
Author-X-Name-Last: Alkilani
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Project performance measurement for small-and-medium sized construction contractors in the Jordanian construction industry
Abstract:
This article addresses a gap in construction project performance measurement research from the perspective of small-medium-sized construction contractors in developing countries. Focussing on small-medium-sized contractors in the Jordanian construction industry, a survey of 231 Jordanian construction professionals was undertaken to investigate how different project stakeholders, intra and extra-organisational relationships and financial and non-financial measures support or hinder the delivery of project outcomes. Using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) an integrated theoretical performance measurement model was developed and tested which contributes to the advancement of construction project performance measurement research in a number of ways. First, it shows that small-medium-sized contractor project performance is a multi-dimensional, dynamic and contested construct which is bounded by environmental and organisational constraints, and inseparable from mainstream business performance. Second, it shows that performance is measured by six project-related constructs (project cost, time, quality, health and safety, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic performance) and three business-related constructs (profitability, client satisfaction and consultant satisfaction). Third, it shows that four intra-organisational groups of variables (leadership, management capabilities, human resource management and technical capabilities, resources and processes) have a significant impact on the overall project and business performance. Fourth, it shows that four extra-organisational groups of variables (client performance, consultant performance, supplier performance and external attributes) have a significant direct impact on project performance, but no moderating impact was found.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 743-769
Issue: 10
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2108863
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2108863
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# input file: RCME_A_2109699_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Viet-Ngu Hoang
Author-X-Name-First: Viet-Ngu
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoang
Author-Name: Joko Purnomo Raharjo
Author-X-Name-First: Joko Purnomo
Author-X-Name-Last: Raharjo
Author-Name: Connie Susilawati
Author-X-Name-First: Connie
Author-X-Name-Last: Susilawati
Title: Meta-frontier efficiency analysis of real estate and construction firms in Indonesia
Abstract:
Improving the productive efficiency (also called technical efficiency) of real estate and construction firms (RECFs) is essential to tackle the sustained shortage of housing supply and the increasing unaffordability of housing in developing countries. However, there are few studies that focus on this issue in the context of developing countries; and available literature focuses mainly on firms listed on stock markets. Our study employs the meta-frontier framework to measure the efficiency of 832 small, medium, and large RECFs across Indonesia from 2012 to 2016, using a data envelopment analysis technique. The meta-frontier framework allows for different production technologies and different business environments operated by firms of different sizes. Under the specification of group-specific production frontiers, large firms obtain the highest average efficiency scores (0.694), followed by medium firms (0.529), and small firms (0.479). The technology gaps between the meta-frontier and the group-frontiers for small and medium firms are relatively large, suggesting that the overall industry would be able to achieve remarkable efficiency improvement if firms could access technologies used by more efficient firms. Our results also show that determinants of the efficiency vary across firm groups, suggesting that policy and managerial interventions tailored to each group would have more impact on the overall productive efficiency of the entire industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 770-780
Issue: 10
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2109699
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2109699
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:10:p:770-780
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# input file: RCME_A_2110272_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Conghan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Conghan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Shuibo Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Shuibo
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Ying Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Author-Name: Bo Li
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Trust repair in the aftermath of conflict occurrence in construction subcontracting: an intergroup contact perspective
Abstract:
Although trust repair after conflict occurrence is significant for effective work and sustainable relationships in construction subcontracting and contact is inevitable, researchers have yet to examine the relationship between contact quality and trust repair after conflict occurrence. This study investigates the effect of contact quality on Party A’s trust repair after conflict occurrence and the mediating mechanisms of that effect. The authors conducted a questionnaire survey to collect data for hypotheses testing, receiving 310 valid questionnaires from general contractors and subcontractors engaged in construction projects. The results reveal the positive effect of contact quality on Party A’s trust repair after conflict occurrence and the mediating roles of Party A’s feeling of threat and Party B’s self-disclosure in that effect. This study contributes to the trust research and intergroup contact theory. It also offers suggestions for construction subcontracting practitioners to facilitate trust repair after conflict occurrence.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 781-795
Issue: 10
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2110272
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2110272
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:10:p:781-795
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# input file: RCME_A_1983187_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Kell Jones
Author-X-Name-First: Kell
Author-X-Name-Last: Jones
Author-Name: Luigi Mosca
Author-X-Name-First: Luigi
Author-X-Name-Last: Mosca
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Author-Name: Andrew Davies
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Davies
Author-Name: Jacqueline Glass
Author-X-Name-First: Jacqueline
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Title: Addressing specialization and fragmentation: product platform development in construction consultancy firms
Abstract:
Construction product platforms provide the opportunity to improve productivity in construction projects while maintaining heterogeneity of output. The growing literature on construction product platforms describes how product suppliers develop product platforms either top-down or bottom-up, independently from project delivery. Through a single case study of a consultancy firm, this paper shows how a specialist consultancy firm operating in the construction sector developed their own product platform on projects while iteratively developing and augmenting their delivery capabilities. Distinguishing between activity integration, coordination, and consolidation, the platform development process highlights how vertical and horizontal consolidation of capabilities within the engineering phase of delivery enables early resolution of both product and process specifications. This means that vertical coordination between engineering and manufacturing phases can be managed by a fully specified contract, rather than acquisition. The analysis of the case shows how construction can be more closely aligned with the linear and sequential models found in manufacturing through clarifying and distinguishing the roles of engineering, manufacturing, finishing and sub-assembly.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 918-933
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1983187
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1983187
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# input file: RCME_A_2153501_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: The Editors
Title: List of Reviewers for Construction Management and Economics 2022
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: i-iii
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2153501
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2153501
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# input file: RCME_A_2154040_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Paul W. Chan
Author-X-Name-First: Paul W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Chan
Title: Reflections from the Editor-in-Chief: confronting emerging challenges with important and interesting research in Construction Management and Economics
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1003-1005
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2154040
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2154040
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# input file: RCME_A_2108093_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Lilly Rosander
Author-X-Name-First: Lilly
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosander
Title: Same same but different: dynamics of a pre-procurement routine and its influence on relational contracting models
Abstract:
To improve the performance of construction projects, the use of relational contracting (e.g. Project Partnering, Alliancing, Early Contractor Involvement, Integrated Project Delivery) has increased among public clients in the last few decades. Despite widespread use, there are still large variations in contracting arrangements. In addition, the outcome of relational contracting remains unpredictable. The aim of this paper is to investigate how these variations may originate from internal dynamics and practices in the project-based client organisation. Adapting organisational routines as an analytical lens, the study investigates the pre-procurement routine applied to develop project-specific relational contracting models (e.g. contract schemes, reward systems, and award criteria) for large construction projects in the Swedish Transport Administration. The study contributes to research on organisational routines in project-based settings, illustrating how flexible enactment of a pre-procurement routine may balance two conflicting organisational goals: centralisation of procurement and project-level flexibility. However, while mitigating conflicting goals, the routine enactments create a variation in project-specific procurement models that hampers long-term goals of predictability and shared practices of relational contracting. Consequently, findings indicate that public clients seeking to transform contracting practices must increase their ability to develop procurement routines that can balance organisational goals and simultaneously benefit long-term goals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 955-972
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2108093
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2108093
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# input file: RCME_A_2037144_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Johan Ninan
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Ninan
Author-Name: Natalya Sergeeva
Author-X-Name-First: Natalya
Author-X-Name-Last: Sergeeva
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Narrative shapes innovation: a study on multiple innovations in the UK construction industry
Abstract:
The nature of the construction industry is different from other sectors due to the unique and temporary nature of projects which makes incremental improvements difficult necessitating the need to understand the practice of innovation. This research aims to explore the role of narratives in shaping innovation, as these provide a way to manage the tensions prevalent in the industry. We study 133 innovations across different construction projects in the UK and seek to understand the role of narratives in motivating these innovations. For instance, “innovations that enable project completion,” “innovations that improve productivity,” “innovations in health and safety” and “innovations in sustainability” are discussed. Whilst we acknowledge that factors such as incentives and rewards can motivate innovation, we argue that narratives shape or guide innovation in a particular direction. Since construction projects are interorganizational and multileveled, the industry-level narratives need to be adopted by firms to enable innovations at project sites. Innovators actively look for areas where they can intervene, and narratives improve the visibility of some areas thereby guiding innovations to them.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 884-902
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037144
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037144
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:11-12:p:884-902
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# input file: RCME_A_2015795_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Brian Andreas
Author-X-Name-First: Brian
Author-X-Name-Last: Andreas
Author-Name: Scott Fernie
Author-X-Name-First: Scott
Author-X-Name-Last: Fernie
Author-Name: Andrew Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: Understanding policy and change: using a political economy analysis framework
Abstract:
The gap between the intent and the impact of policy for construction in the UK has been well established both in academic literature and in public discourse, contributing to repeated calls for transformation of the industry. The apparent failure of policy was investigated, taking policy at sector level as the unit of analysis. The objective was to both generate insight into the policy process and to establish a theoretical framework. Anticipating that the use of language, and the conflicting meanings attached to it by individual actors, is critical, an interpretive, abductive, research design was adopted. Twenty semi-structured interviews were carried out with a cross-section of industry actors. Methods of political economy analysis, used in other contexts, were adopted as the starting point for abduction. Analysis revealed flawed assumptions amongst stakeholders regarding the extent of the agency of central government in implementing change across such a heterogeneous and loosely coupled sector. Political economy analysis shows the impact of structural and institutional features on the sector in a systemic and holistic way, providing a template and visual model which supports collaborative and reflexive working, and forming a foundation for further research into policy for construction both in the UK and elsewhere.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 865-883
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.2015795
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.2015795
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# input file: RCME_A_1980896_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Oscar Lundberg
Author-X-Name-First: Oscar
Author-X-Name-Last: Lundberg
Author-Name: Daniel Nylén
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Nylén
Author-Name: Johan Sandberg
Author-X-Name-First: Johan
Author-X-Name-Last: Sandberg
Title: Unpacking construction site digitalization: the role of incongruence and inconsistency in technological frames
Abstract:
Construction site operations often involve multiple actors with substantial variations in assumptions, expectations, and knowledge about technology. This could impair digitalization, which involves development of socio-cognitive environments that foster use of digital technology in new organizational procedures. Nevertheless, construction industry digitalization research has mainly addressed firm-level transformation of engineering phases and focused on technology, largely ignoring challenges arising from cognitive differences among actors at construction sites. Thus, we report a case study of attempts to spark construction site digitalization through a shared information management system (IMS). Applying technology frame of reference theory, we demonstrate how differences within groups among actors’ frames (inconsistency) shape group-level frame misalignment (incongruence) and thus digitalization outcomes. The IMS was implemented successfully at the focal firm’s headquarter and regional office levels. However, substantial construction site-level frame inconsistency led to misaligned group-level expectations and generated a fragmented socio-cognitive environment that hindered strategic digitalization. In conclusion, socio-cognitive environments at industry, construction site, and group levels recursively shape individual frames, and harmonization of frames is important to realize construction digitalization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 987-1002
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1980896
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1980896
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:11-12:p:987-1002
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# input file: RCME_A_2037145_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Asta Salmi
Author-X-Name-First: Asta
Author-X-Name-Last: Salmi
Author-Name: Jaakko Jussila
Author-X-Name-First: Jaakko
Author-X-Name-Last: Jussila
Author-Name: Mervi Hämäläinen
Author-X-Name-First: Mervi
Author-X-Name-Last: Hämäläinen
Title: The role of municipalities in transformation towards more sustainable construction: the case of wood construction in Finland
Abstract:
Transformation towards more sustainable construction calls for actions from representatives of different sectors and societal levels. Previous studies have investigated companies and national policies as promoters of change, but neglected municipalities as relevant actors. Municipalities influence construction as they are trailblazers when realizing their own building projects, as well as regulators, whose planning decisions affect local and urban development. We investigate the role of municipalities in driving sustainability transformation in construction, in particular, in relation to wood construction. The empirical study relies on data collected in Finland through a comprehensive survey among municipalities and qualitative interviews. Key factors in municipal considerations are energy efficiency and carbon neutrality goals. Regulations and norms related to construction influence municipal activities as well. We find various drivers (e.g. supportive planning) and barriers (e.g. cost concerns) to wood construction. National programmes promoting wood construction have induced gradual changes and led to some municipal pilot projects. Despite these positive examples, it seems to take time before municipalities adopt wood construction more extensively. Simultaneously, their position at the intersection of different actors and activities involved in construction provides a fruitful base for promoting sustainable construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 934-954
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2037145
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2037145
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# input file: RCME_A_1983851_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Maude Brunet
Author-X-Name-First: Maude
Author-X-Name-Last: Brunet
Author-Name: Patrick Cohendet
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Cohendet
Title: Transforming construction: heterarchical megaproject ecologies and the management of innovation
Abstract:
As the digital transformation impacts many sectors of the economy, actors in the construction industry—and more specifically in megaproject initiatives—have to adapt to new technologies and processes. Megaprojects are commonly undertaken to build essential infrastructures such as roads, dams, buildings, or even smart cities or districts, and usually involve complex and hybrid organizational forms. Moreover, digitalization transforms megaprojects, presenting megaproject teams with opportunities, but also challenges. This conceptual paper explores the characteristics of heterarchical megaproject ecologies in order to identify ways to address the impacts of the current digital transformation. Our aim is to analyze how a heterarchical form of governance contributes to transforming the management of innovation. While heterarchies can lead to severe dysfunctions, we propose strategies to manage them, paying specific attention to the governance of a common-pool-resource scenario, network roles, knowledge articulation and learning. The main contribution of this paper is to provide a renewed conceptualization of megaproject governance and to propose a conceptual framework that can be used to study the management of innovation in empirical megaproject settings.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 973-986
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2021.1983851
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2021.1983851
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# input file: RCME_A_2141432_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Jacqueline Glass
Author-X-Name-First: Jacqueline
Author-X-Name-Last: Glass
Author-Name: Lena E. Bygballe
Author-X-Name-First: Lena E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Bygballe
Author-Name: Daniel Hall
Author-X-Name-First: Daniel
Author-X-Name-Last: Hall
Title: Transforming construction: the multi-scale challenges of changing and innovating in construction
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 855-864
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2141432
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2141432
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:11-12:p:855-864
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# input file: RCME_A_2033287_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Mustafa Selçuk Çıdık
Author-X-Name-First: Mustafa Selçuk
Author-X-Name-Last: Çıdık
Author-Name: David Boyd
Author-X-Name-First: David
Author-X-Name-Last: Boyd
Title: Value implication of digital transformation: the impact of the commodification of information
Abstract:
The transforming construction agenda argues that digitalization enables better value by addressing coordination challenges. However, this claim poorly articulates how value is constituted, and ignores the problems with digitalization in real-life practices. The paper presents a finer-grained analysis of the value implications of digitalization in a critical discourse, organized in two parts, using the two value creation logics in construction as proposed by Bygballe and Jahre and the concept of “commodification” as proposed by Prudham. Through a critical literature review, the first part argues that digitalization mainly supports “production value creation logic” focussing on the integration of business processes at an organizational level, while creating challenges for “project value creation logic” by hampering mutual adjustment in situated practices. The second part conceives of digitalization as “commodification of information” to expose the complex set of processes causing digitalization to impact differently on the two value creation logics. It reveals that digitalization elevates the digital exchange value of information above its situated use value, and so, it systematically shifts the social and business contexts of coordination. Thus, digitalization shifts what, how, by whom and to whose advantage, value is created and captured, making it a politicized change with implications for management and policy.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 903-917
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 40
Year: 2022
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2033287
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2033287
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:40:y:2022:i:11-12:p:903-917
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# input file: RCME_A_2135750_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Benjamin Kwaku Ababio
Author-X-Name-First: Benjamin Kwaku
Author-X-Name-Last: Ababio
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Barriers and enablers of circular economy in construction: a multi-system perspective towards the development of a practical framework
Abstract:
Growing environmental concerns and the threat of resource scarcity have heightened interest in the Circular Economy (CE) concept over the last decade. Nonetheless, implementation of CE practice within the built environment has taken a slower pace in comparison with other industries. A clear understanding of systemic and multilevel aspects of CE, especially in relation to barriers that hinder practical implementation, appears to be lacking within the sector. In light of this, the study aims to examine the existing body of knowledge to elucidate, from a systemic perspective, CE barriers across various levels in construction. To achieve this purpose, a scientometric analysis is used to examine 581 bibliometric-searched filtered articles on CE implementation barriers in construction. Key issues, drivers and potential resolutions are explained using content analysis of specific pre-determined articles. The study finds that critical system levels of CE implementation (micro, meso, and macro levels) are interrelated. However, barriers and drivers at each individual level may differ. Additionally, this paper categorises key barriers to implementing CE-aligned strategies into five main themes, namely: definition and theory misconception, political and legislative, social and cultural, financial and economic, and technological barriers. Based on these, four cross-cutting enablers are established to drive the transition from linear to circular economy in construction. The findings of this study highlight deficiencies and challenges in current research while providing a path for future studies. It provides a convenient point of reference for practitioners, policy makers, and research and development (R&D) institutions on CE implementation within the industry. Lastly, the study raises public awareness on CE barriers and guides the AEC sector to develop intellectual capital to overcome them.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 3-21
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2135750
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2135750
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# input file: RCME_A_2130384_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Ida Gremyr
Author-X-Name-First: Ida
Author-X-Name-Last: Gremyr
Author-Name: Jenny Bäckstrand
Author-X-Name-First: Jenny
Author-X-Name-Last: Bäckstrand
Author-Name: Anna Fredriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Fredriksson
Author-Name: Gabriella Gatenholm
Author-X-Name-First: Gabriella
Author-X-Name-Last: Gatenholm
Author-Name: Árni Halldórsson
Author-X-Name-First: Árni
Author-X-Name-Last: Halldórsson
Title: Blueprinting construction logistics services for quality improvement
Abstract:
Construction logistics services can, if implemented with high quality, positively impact both efficiency and sustainability of construction projects. However, present quality management frameworks have not been developed for temporary multi-actor contexts, such as construction, which is largely lacking industrialised processes. Still, construction logistics service providers provide service offerings to temporary settings and could thus benefit from a service quality perspective. Applying this perspective, this study supports the quality improvement of construction logistics services by using a service modularity approach to identify the services to prioritise for improvement. Building on interviews, concept mapping, and a service blueprint of a construction logistics setup, a priority matrix for improvements is developed. The first step in using this matrix is to operationalise the construction logistics setup in modules based on blueprinting. Second, the matrix evaluates the modules against nine empirically derived improvement enablers such as practices and forums for learning, and data measurements enabling the comparison and follow-up of construction logistics services. In conclusion, the priority matrix helps focus the improvements on modules with high likelihood of successful improvements. Improvements that can become sustained over time through the reuse of standardised modules in upcoming projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 60-78
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2130384
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2130384
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# input file: RCME_A_2159202_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Florence Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Title: Editorial
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-2
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2159202
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2159202
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# input file: RCME_A_2140815_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Emilia Nilsson Vestola
Author-X-Name-First: Emilia
Author-X-Name-Last: Nilsson Vestola
Author-Name: Per Erik Eriksson
Author-X-Name-First: Per Erik
Author-X-Name-Last: Eriksson
Title: Engineered and emerged collaboration: vicious and virtuous cycles
Abstract:
Inter-organizational collaboration within the construction industry consists of both engineered and emerged aspects. Engineered formal practices and emerged informal practices interplay in their influence on the overall success of client-contractor collaboration. This interplay has been recognized but is still understudied and requires further research to increase the understanding of how the interplay functions. To enable the study of the emerged aspects of collaboration we applied a practice-based approach in a longitudinal multiple case study, including four projects for operation and maintenance of road infrastructure. This paper contributes to the literature on collaboration in construction by providing detailed examples of how the interplay between engineered and emerged collaboration may unfold, showing how formal and informal practices contribute to the development of vicious and virtuous cycles of collaboration. Furthermore, our findings indicate that a virtuous cycle of only informal practices can become a weakness if unexpected problems occur. Project managers should therefore be encouraged to implement formal collaboration, even if the project team is already in a virtuous cycle of informal collaboration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 79-96
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2140815
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2140815
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:1:p:79-96
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# input file: RCME_A_2151024_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Tom B. J. Coenen
Author-X-Name-First: Tom B. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Coenen
Author-Name: Klaasjan Visscher
Author-X-Name-First: Klaasjan
Author-X-Name-Last: Visscher
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: A systemic perspective on transition barriers to a circular infrastructure sector
Abstract:
Due to the large use of resources and waste generation, the transition to a circular economy (CE) has become a major sustainability-related topic in construction. Intentions to achieve circularity are shared widely, but developments are slow in practice. This study identifies systemic barriers to the circularity transition from a social-technical systemic perspective. We used the Mission-oriented Innovation System (MIS) framework to provide insights into the problems and potential solutions underlying the circularity mission, the structure of the system and the system dynamics. Based on the analysis of a wide range of policy documents and twenty in-depth interviews with stakeholders in the Dutch infrastructure sector, three vicious cycles were identified that form persistent barriers to the transition: (1) the CE contestation cycle given the contested nature of the circularity mission; (2) the knowledge diffusion cycle given the need to adopt and diffuse knowledge; and (3) the innovation cycle when it comes to procuring and upscaling circular innovations. These barriers all relate to processual, organizational and institutional challenges rather than to technological ones. This indicates that construction managers, policymakers and researchers in the field of infrastructure circularity should shift their focus from specific circular solutions to creating appropriate conditions for changing current and introducing novel processes that facilitate circular ways of doing things.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 22-43
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2151024
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2151024
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# input file: RCME_A_2137882_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Zhenshuang Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Zhenshuang
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Feng Han
Author-X-Name-First: Feng
Author-X-Name-Last: Han
Author-Name: Bo Xia
Author-X-Name-First: Bo
Author-X-Name-Last: Xia
Author-Name: Jingkuang Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Jingkuang
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Chengyi Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Chengyi
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: Regional differences and heterogeneity of construction and demolition waste with economic growth: evidence from China
Abstract:
The reduction of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) has a significant impact on the sustainable development of the construction industry. Differentiated reduction management policy is the key to C&DW reduction management. Based on the calculation of C&DW generation, this paper studies the temporal and spatial evolution characteristics, heterogeneity of C&DW with economic growth, and driving factors of C&DW generation in 30 provinces from 2007 to 2018 by using the methods of standard deviation ellipse model, environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) and geographic detector. The results show that the C&DW generation in China shows an increasing trend, “low in the west, and high in the East” and “high in the South and low in the north,” with significant regional differences. The temporal and spatial distribution of C&DW generation shows a “northeast southwest” trend, and this pattern has a trend of changing to “due north - due south”; C&DW generation increases with the economic growth, and the proportion of “inverted N” provinces is large, which is in the stage of continuous increase in the C&DW generation; The economic output effect of construction industry is the most important factor affecting the spatial distribution of C&DW generation. The impact of C&DW generation in each province has shifted from the single core driving effect of economy to the common guidance of economy and environmental protection. The interaction of different factors has a greater impact on the spatial distribution of C&DW generation than that of each factor alone.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 44-59
Issue: 1
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2137882
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2137882
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# input file: RCME_A_2151025_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Natalie Galea
Author-X-Name-First: Natalie
Author-X-Name-Last: Galea
Author-Name: Abigail Powell
Author-X-Name-First: Abigail
Author-X-Name-Last: Powell
Author-Name: Fanny Salignac
Author-X-Name-First: Fanny
Author-X-Name-Last: Salignac
Title: The role of homosociality in maintaining men’s powerfulness in construction companies
Abstract:
Over the last few decades, research has largely focused on the processes and practices that act against women in male-dominated industries and the effect this has on their career progression. However, men’s careers are under analysed. This paper flips the gaze, applying a feminist institutionalist lens to examine the practices and rules that shape and enable men’s career progression. This is critical if we are to understand how men’s power in organizations is maintained and perpetuated, arguably at the expense of women’s careers. It draws on data from a rapid ethnographic study of the Australian construction industry, specifically of construction professionals working in two multinational Australian construction companies. The paper finds that men’s career progression routinely operates through homosociality, instrumentally and expressively, via a “sponsor-mobility” principle whereby selected individuals receive higher levels of guidance, access to opportunities and advocacy from their managers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 172-182
Issue: 2
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2151025
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2151025
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# input file: RCME_A_2124527_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Mohammad Tanvi Newaz
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad Tanvi
Author-X-Name-Last: Newaz
Author-Name: Mahmoud Ershadi
Author-X-Name-First: Mahmoud
Author-X-Name-Last: Ershadi
Author-Name: Marcus Jefferies
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Jefferies
Author-Name: Manikam Pillay
Author-X-Name-First: Manikam
Author-X-Name-Last: Pillay
Author-Name: Peter Davis
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Davis
Title: A systematic review of contemporary safety management research: a multi-level approach to identifying trending domains in the construction industry
Abstract:
Safety management research in construction is pervasive, therefore, a systematic review and a bibliometric mapping process that provides an overview of how recent mainstream research topics are conceptually structured is timely. Undertaking systematic mapping, contemporaneous with a scoping review of construction safety management research, can contribute to a better understanding of research outcomes and predominant topics. This study employed VOSviewer as a bibliometric tool to identify co-author citations, as well as the co-occurrence of key terms within the title, abstract and keywords of the articles. A total of 180 representative studies published in 21 peer-reviewed journals between January 2010 and November 2021 were analysed. A systematic literature review identified a significant focus on conceptualizing safety climate and safety behaviour with a growing interest in applying advanced technologies for improved safety management. Two perspectives were recognized in safety research, i.e. process-driven and people-driven, with the former focussing on accident causation while the latter on underlying the active role of workers’ involvement in safety outcomes. An in-depth discussion of the findings revealed seven trending research domains: safety systems; safety skills; accident causation; safety leadership and communications; safety behaviour and attitude; safety climate and culture; and practices for improving safety performance. This review identified an emerging interest in seeking effective leadership styles and psychological interventions to promote safety culture and behaviour. In terms of practical implications, this study found opportunities to address the gap between theory and practice by adopting systems thinking and using IT for improving safety performance in construction projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 97-115
Issue: 2
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2124527
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2124527
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# input file: RCME_A_2127154_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Qinjun Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Qinjun
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Yingbin Feng
Author-X-Name-First: Yingbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Feng
Author-Name: Kerry London
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: London
Author-Name: Peng Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Peng
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: Influence of personal characteristics and environmental stressors on mental health for multicultural construction workplaces in Australia
Abstract:
Exposure to various stressors has resulted in a significant problem of mental health among the construction workforce. A culturally intolerant environment may aggravate mental ill health in a multicultural workplace. However, an underlying structural issue that has not been sufficiently addressed to date is the influence the crucial personal characteristics and environmental stressors have on mental health in the multicultural construction environment. This study aims to examine the role of personal characteristics and environmental stressors in construction workers’ mental health in the multicultural environment. Data were collected using an online questionnaire survey from 252 construction workers in Australia. The structural equation modelling (SEM) technique with partial least-squares estimation (PLS) was adopted to analyze the data. Results showed that workers’ mental health is not only influenced by stressors related to the work environment, but also by individual traits. Increased levels of cultural stressors tend to aggravate the adverse effect of work stressors on mental health. Work stressors are more likely to cause mental ill health for the individuals characterized by a higher level of aggressive, competitive, ambiguous, and impulsive personalities; whilst cultural stressors are less likely to cause mental ill health for those individuals. This research offers an innovative perspective on the relationships between crucial person-environment factors and mental health, and informs the practice of work health and safety in the multicultural construction workplace.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 116-137
Issue: 2
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2127154
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2127154
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# input file: RCME_A_2137880_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Terrelle Hegarty
Author-X-Name-First: Terrelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Hegarty
Author-Name: Sarah Wright
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Wright
Author-Name: Russell Wordsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Wordsworth
Author-Name: Beverley Lord
Author-X-Name-First: Beverley
Author-X-Name-Last: Lord
Title: Deferential Tailoring: a grounded theory of how women respond and adapt to social conditions and gender-related challenges in the New Zealand construction industry
Abstract:
In this article we utilize grounded theory to explore women’s experiences in the unique construction industry context that followed the 2010 Canterbury (New Zealand) earthquakes. Data were obtained from 36 semi-structured interviews conducted with women working in a variety of occupations in the construction industry. We identify three inter-related categories: capitalizing on opportunity, demonstrating capability and surface tolerance, which together represent a response process that we label “deferential tailoring”. The deferential tailoring process explains how women intentionally shape their response to industry conditions through self-regulating behaviours that enables them to successfully seize opportunities and manage gender-related challenges in the working environment. Our findings challenge existing research which suggests that women adopt submissive coping strategies to conform to androcentric norms in the construction industry. Instead, we argue that the process of deferential tailoring can empower women to build positive workplace relationships, enhance career development, and help shift perceptions of the value of their work in the industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 138-152
Issue: 2
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2137880
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2137880
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:2:p:138-152
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# input file: RCME_A_2151022_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20220907T060133 git hash: 85d61bd949
Author-Name: Morwenna F. Fellows
Author-X-Name-First: Morwenna F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Fellows
Author-Name: Florence T. T. Phua
Author-X-Name-First: Florence T. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Phua
Author-Name: Dylan E. Tutt
Author-X-Name-First: Dylan E.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tutt
Title: Building bridges: the bilingual language work of migrant construction workers
Abstract:
The construction industry (CI) employs significant numbers of migrant workers, making construction sites multilingual spaces. Workers who do not share a common language work alongside each other, posing issues for safety, integration and productivity. Methods used to overcome these language barriers include the use of bilingual workers as informal interpreters. The prevalence and importance of informal interpreters is recognized in the literature. However, their language work is not well understood, and hence, the research question addressed is: what language work do the informal interpreters do and how? This study uses the theoretical lens of translanguaging to conceptualize communication onsite between speakers of different named languages, emphasizing the flexible and multimodal nature of language in use. An ethnographic approach is adopted, comprising 40 international informal interviews, and observational field notes and material data from the UK. The language work of the informal interpreters is explored through this data and theoretical lens; their language tasks and the nature of their language work is identified, including the use of visuals, gesture, and technology. Far from being straightforward and predictable, the findings show that the scope of their language work varies considerably. In this informal language work, the boundaries between languages and of what constitutes interpretation are blurred. A novel aspect of language work emerges from the data, showing that this often includes mediation. This study clarifies understandings of communication and informal interpretation on multilingual construction sites and these findings could contribute to future best practice on the use of bilingual workers as informal interpreters.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 153-171
Issue: 2
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2151022
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2151022
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:2:p:153-171
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# input file: RCME_A_2135749_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Marcus C. T. Fireman
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus C. T.
Author-X-Name-Last: Fireman
Author-Name: Tarcisio Abreu Saurin
Author-X-Name-First: Tarcisio Abreu
Author-X-Name-Last: Saurin
Author-Name: Carlos Torres Formoso
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Torres
Author-X-Name-Last: Formoso
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Author-Name: Iris D. Tommelein
Author-X-Name-First: Iris D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Tommelein
Title: Slack in production planning and control: a study in the construction industry
Abstract:
Although buffers of inventories, time, and capacity are commonly recommended to mitigate variability in construction, they abstract away the role played by human agency. This study argues for slack as a socio-technical complement to buffers for dealing with variability. The investigation is based on two case studies conducted in construction projects that adopted the Last Planner® System. Data collection focussed on understanding how slack practices and resources (SPR) were used in production planning and control, and was based on observations, analysis of documents, and interviews. Findings revealed 57 instantiations of slack practices and 8 types of slack resources. Several of these SPR diverge from what are traditionally called buffers, highlighting how the concept of SPR gives visibility to a wider range of variability coping mechanisms. Thus, it is important to make SPR explicit so that managers can reflect on why SPR are necessary, understand how they relate to each other, and assess their unintended consequences. Five propositions are presented, encompassing: how to identify SPR; the variety and general- or context-specific nature of SPR; and the value of maintaining SPR. These propositions contribute to risk management in production planning and control.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 256-276
Issue: 3
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2135749
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2135749
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# input file: RCME_A_2135748_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Patrick Dallasega
Author-X-Name-First: Patrick
Author-X-Name-Last: Dallasega
Author-Name: Felix Schulze
Author-X-Name-First: Felix
Author-X-Name-Last: Schulze
Author-Name: Andrea Revolti
Author-X-Name-First: Andrea
Author-X-Name-Last: Revolti
Title: Augmented Reality to overcome Visual Management implementation barriers in construction: a MEP case study
Abstract:
Visual Management (VM) is an important Lean method to enhance information flow and reduce waste in construction. However, its adoption is hindered by several barriers. Scientific works mention that emerging technologies can support or replace conventional VM practices, but empirical evidence is missing. Based on an in-depth literature review, we derived the research questions (RQs), arguing if Augmented Reality (AR) could mitigate VM implementation barriers. Thus, a corresponding AR measurement model was developed. Through a case study of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) installations in a multi-story apartment building, the RQs were answered using an AR head-mounted display (HMD). To gather the necessary empirical evidence, the data was collected through direct observations on-site and through semi-structured interviews. The study findings show that (1) AR provided time savings and generally satisfactory accuracy levels. (2) AR demonstrably reduced the training effort to better support MEP marking work. (3) The use of AR reduced the resistance to change to adopt VM practices, although concerns were raised about poor ergonomics and work safety risks. Future research activities should consist of investigating the potential of other emerging technologies to overcome the common Lean implementation barriers in construction.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 232-255
Issue: 3
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2135748
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2135748
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:3:p:232-255
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# input file: RCME_A_2132523_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Bernard Tuffour Atuahene
Author-X-Name-First: Bernard Tuffour
Author-X-Name-Last: Atuahene
Author-Name: Sittimont Kanjanabootra
Author-X-Name-First: Sittimont
Author-X-Name-Last: Kanjanabootra
Author-Name: Thayaparan Gajendran
Author-X-Name-First: Thayaparan
Author-X-Name-Last: Gajendran
Title: Transformative role of big data through enabling capability recognition in construction
Abstract:
Big data application is a significant transformative driver of change in the retail, health, engineering, and advanced manufacturing sectors. Big data studies in construction are still somewhat limited, although there is increasing interest in what big data application could achieve. Through interviews with construction professionals, this paper identifies the capabilities needed in construction firms to enable the accrual of the potentially transformative benefits of big data application in construction. Based on previous studies, big data application capabilities, needed to transform construction processes, focussed on data, people, technology, and organisation. However, the findings of this research suggest a critical modification to that focus to include knowledge and the organisational environment along with people, data, and technology. The research findings show that construction firms use big data with a combination strategy to enable transformation by (a) driving an in-house data management policy to rolling-out the big data capabilities; (b) fostering collaborative capabilities with external firms for resource development, and (c) outsourcing big data services to address the capabilities deficits impacting digital transformation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 208-231
Issue: 3
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2132523
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2132523
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:3:p:208-231
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# input file: RCME_A_2124528_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Muaz O. Ahmed
Author-X-Name-First: Muaz O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmed
Author-Name: Islam H. El-adaway
Author-X-Name-First: Islam H.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-adaway
Title: An integrated game-theoretic and reinforcement learning modeling for multi-stage construction and infrastructure bidding
Abstract:
Construction and infrastructure bidding is a highly competitive and complicated process that entails various uncertainties faced by contractors. The situation is more complex in multi-stage bidding (MSG) where general contractors must deal with the complexity of accounting for the bids of their subcontractors and face a greater threat of falling prey to the winner’s curse (i.e. situation where the winning contractor underestimates the actual cost of the project). Existing research efforts have tackled the issue of the winner’s curse in MSG from the general contractor’s perspective. However, there is a lack of research in developing bidding models that simultaneously aid both general contractors and subcontractors in determining their bid value to mitigate the winner’s curse in MSG. This paper fills this knowledge gap. The authors utilized an interdependent game theory (GT) and reinforcement learning (RL) approach, that includes: formulation of MSG framework; incorporation of two RL algorithms, namely the multiplicative weights and the modified Roth-Erev, to be utilized by subcontractors in preparation of their bids; utilization of MSG game-theoretic bid function for the preparation of the general contractors’ bids for the whole project; development of the MSG-GTRL model; and testing the MSG-GTRL model through simulating various bidding scenarios using a combination of actual and synthetic dataset of infrastructure projects. Results show that integrating GT and RL in MSG bidding enables general contractors and their subcontractors to simultaneously improve their financial state by minimizing the occurrence of negative earnings, and thus, avoiding the winner’s curse in their respective portions of projects.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 183-207
Issue: 3
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2124528
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2124528
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:3:p:183-207
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# input file: RCME_A_2156570_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Yousong Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Yousong
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Yao Yao
Author-X-Name-First: Yao
Author-X-Name-Last: Yao
Author-Name: Yangbing Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Yangbing
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Boya Su
Author-X-Name-First: Boya
Author-X-Name-Last: Su
Author-Name: Tongyuan Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Tongyuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Title: Impact of industrial agglomeration on total factor productivity in the construction industry: evidence from China
Abstract:
Industrial agglomeration (IA), a common industrial phenomenon, has been verified to have a significant impact on total factor productivity (TFP) in many industries. However, the impact of IA on TFP is seldom investigated in the construction industry, despite the existence of the industrial agglomeration phenomenon in the construction industry. As such, this study aims to probe into the impact of IA on TFP in the construction industry, so as to provide new insights into the industry development and improvement of TFP in the construction industry. Based on the competing results of the agglomeration effect and congestion effect caused by IA, this study proposed three hypotheses on the impact mechanism of IA on TFP in the construction industry. Then, the non-linear regression model and linear regression model were developed to test the hypotheses based on the provincial panel data from 2002 to 2017 in China. The empirical results reveal that IA has a positive linear impact on TFP in the construction industry, and the impact of IA on TFP in the Chinese construction industry during the observed period is in the embryonic stage. Besides, both the firm scale and economic development level have positive impacts on TFP, whereas the specialization structure has a negative impact. Hence, the government can encourage industrial agglomeration in the construction industry to enhance TFP, in order to leverage the knowledge spillovers, labor pool, and other benefits from IA.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 322-337
Issue: 4
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2156570
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2156570
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# input file: RCME_A_2164598_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Islam H. El-adaway
Author-X-Name-First: Islam H.
Author-X-Name-Last: El-adaway
Author-Name: Gasser G. Ali
Author-X-Name-First: Gasser G.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ali
Author-Name: Radwa Eissa
Author-X-Name-First: Radwa
Author-X-Name-Last: Eissa
Author-Name: Mohamad Abdul Nabi
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamad
Author-X-Name-Last: Abdul Nabi
Author-Name: Muaz O. Ahmed
Author-X-Name-First: Muaz O.
Author-X-Name-Last: Ahmed
Author-Name: Tamima Elbashbishy
Author-X-Name-First: Tamima
Author-X-Name-Last: Elbashbishy
Author-Name: Ramy Khalef
Author-X-Name-First: Ramy
Author-X-Name-Last: Khalef
Title: Construction Management and Economics 40th anniversary: investigating knowledge structure and evolution of research trends
Abstract:
Celebrating Construction Management and Economics's (CME) 40th anniversary, the goal of this paper is to investigate the knowledge structure and evolution of research trends in CME since its inception. The associated objectives include: (1) analyzing CME’s scholarly characteristics; (2) studying CME’s publication output over time; (3) examining interconnectivities between CME’s research trends; and (4) exploring the potential citation impact of recently published CME’s papers. In doing so, this paper implemented a multistep methodology that consists of descriptive assessment, social network analysis (SNA), and predictive machine learning (ML). Results of descriptive assessment showed that CME has witnessed over the years a noticeable growth in the number of publications, citation trends, and collaborative research as depicted increased co-authorship, and that highest percentage of publications were related to “Strategy, Decision Making, Risk, and Finance”, “Project planning and Design” and “Contemporary Issues”. Output of SNA highlights that research areas with the highest interconnectivity included “Strategy, Decision Making, Risk and Finance” and “Project Planning and Design”, and “Labor and Personnel Issues”. Furthermore, predictive ML revealed that CME papers have a high probability of becoming high impact publications. In addition to that, the predictive ML results re-emphasized the outcomes of the performed descriptive assessment by reflecting the importance of “Contemporary Issues”, “Organizational Issues”, “Strategy, Decision Making, Risk, and Finance”, and “Labor and Personnel Issues” as emerging research topics with increased potential impact in the future. Ultimately, this paper benefits all CME stakeholders by quantitatively studying current research patterns, their interconnectivities, and future potential.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 338-360
Issue: 4
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2164598
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2164598
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:4:p:338-360
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# input file: RCME_A_2111694_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Sabina Maslova
Author-X-Name-First: Sabina
Author-X-Name-Last: Maslova
Author-Name: Gemma Burgess
Author-X-Name-First: Gemma
Author-X-Name-Last: Burgess
Title: Delivering human-centred housing: understanding the role of post-occupancy evaluation and customer feedback in traditional and innovative social housebuilding in England
Abstract:
Housing shortages and construction delays characterize the current UK housing crisis, and housing need is not met. Modern methods of construction (MMC) are put forward as a solution to ensure quicker, safer, and greener delivery of new homes and are supported by the government, especially in the social housing sector. The paper explores the post-occupancy evaluation mechanisms used by housing associations delivering homes with traditional and MMC approaches. It argues that, alongside the digital and offsite transformation of housebuilding, the industry needs to reconsider the way customer feedback is collected and what purposes it serves. The paper argues that UK housebuilding in the social housing sector can benefit from re-purposing post-occupancy evaluation (POE) from only measuring customer satisfaction and detecting defects, which is currently the case, to using it to improve housing design and construction quality. This could be done by developing a systematic learning loop from residents of previous projects to the design, development, and construction teams across the housebuilding supply chain. It could particularly benefit housing associations pioneering MMC that, as long-term asset holders of developed houses, have a vested interest in improving the quality of homes and creating a better residential experience. The accumulated knowledge of such customer-centred approaches could also inform MMC technology development and help increase its uptake. However, as the paper further discusses, there are many challenges on the way to effective POE in social housing provision, including the nature of the MMC-based housebuilding supply chain and the industry’s structural factors.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 277-292
Issue: 4
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2111694
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2111694
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:4:p:277-292
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# input file: RCME_A_2151023_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Carlos Andres Zapata Quimbayo
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Andres
Author-X-Name-Last: Zapata Quimbayo
Author-Name: Carlos Armando Mejía Vega
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Armando
Author-X-Name-Last: Mejía Vega
Title: Credit risk in infrastructure PPP projects under the real options approach
Abstract:
The purpose of the paper is to provide a method to estimate the credit risk in infrastructure public–private partnership (PPP) projects by using a structural model, the Real Options approach, and the Monte Carlo simulation technique. To do that, previous models are extended under a structural framework for credit risk where the embedded options in the credit agreement such as the option to renegotiate and the option to exit are introduced as well as the uncertainty of the cash flows. In that sense, all the components of expected loss (EL) such as the probability of default, the exposure, and the recovery rate for lenders are modelled and estimated in a PPP toll road project by considering the embedded options as well as the default events. Consequently, it is found that the embedded options improve the recovery rate for lenders and their EL. Additionally, practical insights about the effects of the embedded options in the credit agreement and the probability of default are provided.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 293-306
Issue: 4
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2151023
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2151023
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:4:p:293-306
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# input file: RCME_A_2156569_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Taija Puolitaival
Author-X-Name-First: Taija
Author-X-Name-Last: Puolitaival
Author-Name: Kalle Kähkönen
Author-X-Name-First: Kalle
Author-X-Name-Last: Kähkönen
Author-Name: Linda Kestle
Author-X-Name-First: Linda
Author-X-Name-Last: Kestle
Title: The framing of construction management responsibilities in job advertisements in the UK and the USA
Abstract:
Responsibilities in construction management can be looked at from many perspectives: individually and organizationally, within the organization and outside the organization. They spread from the daily tasks of a site manager to contractual responsibilities of a whole organization forming a wide and complex topic. The aim of this research was to enhance the understanding of construction management responsibilities by looking at how job advertisements frame the responsibilities of construction management professionals. A documentary research approach with genre and content analyses was used to analyze a selection of job advertisements from large main contractors in the UK and the USA qualitatively. The genre analysis revealed that job advertisements present the construction management responsibilities through a breakdown of three levels: the role name, the overview of the work functions and the description of the responsibilities. The qualitative content analysis resulted in a redeveloped definition of construction management and typology of responsibilities. Recommendations are given for job advertisement writers to ensure that the role name, overview of the work functions and description of the responsibilities all align and contain an appropriate amount of accurate information to attract suitable candidates to apply.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 307-321
Issue: 4
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2156569
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2156569
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# input file: RCME_A_2164789_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Kiran Mahasuar
Author-X-Name-First: Kiran
Author-X-Name-Last: Mahasuar
Title: COVID-19 and its impact on Indian construction industry: an event study approach
Abstract:
COVID-19 has disrupted the normal course of production and livelihood activities across the world. This paper examines the short-term impact of this pandemic on one such strategically important sector, the construction industry of India. This study employs an event study approach to empirically study the market performance and response trends of the construction industry of India to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study finds that COVID-19 has negatively impacted the sector as reflected in the investors’ response during the pandemic window. Through further empirical analysis, we also find that this sector has been affected more vis-à-vis other similar industries. In addition, the study also highlights some broad recommendations and proposes a process framework with prescriptive strategies for relevant stakeholders to smoothen the post-COVID recovery process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 428-444
Issue: 5
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2164789
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2164789
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# input file: RCME_A_2137881_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Alexander Styhre
Author-X-Name-First: Alexander
Author-X-Name-Last: Styhre
Author-Name: Sara Brorström
Author-X-Name-First: Sara
Author-X-Name-Last: Brorström
Title: Syndicated leadership in urban development projects: the case of the River City Gothenburg project
Abstract:
Large-scale urban development projects are complex economic and politically shaped activities, and such projects have oftentimes proved to be more costly and demanding more time to complete than is frequently being stipulated from the outset. Based on these conditions, urban development projects demand effective cross-organizational collaborations to optimize the use of available expertise, the capacity to process data and information, and to optimize public interests (being monitored by democratically elected entities in democratic societies). Based on a study of a major urban development project in Gothenburg, Sweden, this article introduces the concept of syndicated leadership, derived from the concept of syndicated investment in the venture capital industry. Syndicated leadership is based on the centralization of decision-making authority and resource allocation to a team of leaders, each representing (in the case examined) a private corporation, a municipality corporation, or a municipality agency having specific responsibilities in the shared urban development project, but also being dependent on the capacity to coordinate and align project activities. As the case indicates, syndicated leadership demands new expertise and communicative capacities and political skills, but when implemented effectively, it holds the promise of avoiding costly and embarrassing urban development project failures as it makes better use of the expertise of the participant organizations and better accommodate public interests.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-401
Issue: 5
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2137881
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2137881
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# input file: RCME_A_2104890_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Andy Dainty
Author-X-Name-First: Andy
Author-X-Name-Last: Dainty
Title: The power of a pandemic: how Covid-19 should transform UK construction worker health, safety and wellbeing
Abstract:
The world will never be the same again, and neither will the UK construction industry. As one of the few sectors projected to bounce back rapidly from the pandemic, positive rhetoric abounds in the industry press, Government and quasi-governmental bodies about the opportunity that lies ahead to “Build Back Better”. Something else that could and more importantly should never be the same again is the health, safety and wellbeing (HSW) of the UK construction workforce. Pre-Covid-19, UK construction was neither a safe nor a healthy place to work, and transforming this situation is arguably the most important win our industry can secure from this situation. In this essay we argue that the pandemic and associated socio-economic crisis offers a unique, once-in-a-generation opportunity to bounce forward to a “new normal” of healthy, safe and hygienic construction operations, one where the worker’s psychological wellbeing shares the foreground with their physical welfare. This paradigm shift will require a radical redefinition of the matters of concern that shape construction practice, moving away from a focus on sites as the locus of production, to a focus on people. Moreover, we suggest that there is a concurrent obligation on the research community to support such a transition by using the pandemic as a new point of departure for shifting the safety discourse via more critical research approaches. These should question the axioms which currently define the ways in which projects are constituted and managed, and where production takes primacy over the workers that deliver it.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 379-386
Issue: 5
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2104890
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2104890
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:5:p:379-386
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# input file: RCME_A_2162096_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: S M Jamil Uddin
Author-X-Name-First: S M Jamil
Author-X-Name-Last: Uddin
Author-Name: Alex Albert
Author-X-Name-First: Alex
Author-X-Name-Last: Albert
Author-Name: Mahzabin Tamanna
Author-X-Name-First: Mahzabin
Author-X-Name-Last: Tamanna
Author-Name: Abdullah Alsharef
Author-X-Name-First: Abdullah
Author-X-Name-Last: Alsharef
Title: YouTube as a source of information: early coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the construction industry
Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic has been the largest global crisis in recent decades. Apart from the countless deaths and health emergencies, the pandemic has disrupted several industries—including construction. For example, a significant number of construction projects have been interrupted, delayed, and even abandoned. In such emergencies, information gathering and dissemination are vital for effective crisis management. The role of social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, as information sources, in these contexts has received much attention. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate if YouTube can serve as a useful source of information for the construction industry in emergency situations—such as during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. The assessment was undertaken by distilling the coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic as it relates to the construction industry from the content shared via YouTube by leveraging Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modelling. The investigation also compared the timeline with which relevant content was shared via YouTube and peer-reviewed research articles to make relative assessments. The findings suggest that YouTube offered significant and relevant coverage across six topics that include health and safety challenges, ongoing construction operation updates, workforce-related challenges, industry operations-related guidelines and advocacy, and others. Moreover, compared to the coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic in the research literature, YouTube offered more comprehensive and timely coverage of the pandemic as it relates to the construction industry. Accordingly, industry stakeholders may leverage YouTube as a valuable and largely untapped resource to aid in combating similar emergency situations.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 402-427
Issue: 5
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2162096
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2162096
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# input file: RCME_A_2096250_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Naomi Borg
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Borg
Author-Name: Christina M. Scott-Young
Author-X-Name-First: Christina M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Scott-Young
Author-Name: Nader Naderpajouh
Author-X-Name-First: Nader
Author-X-Name-Last: Naderpajouh
Author-Name: Jessica Borg
Author-X-Name-First: Jessica
Author-X-Name-Last: Borg
Title: Surviving adversity: personal and career resilience in the AEC industry during the COVID-19 pandemic
Abstract:
This study aimed to explore the personal and career resilience of project management practitioners working in the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries and their organizational support in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The global pandemic offered a unique opportunity to explore resilience both as a state (using quantitative scales) and as a process (using qualitative responses) in the context of a shared transboundary disturbance in normal routines. A mixed methods approach was used to triangulate quantitative and qualitative data from an online survey which included established scales and open-ended questions. Informed by a total of 121 valid survey responses, hierarchical regression analysis of the scales provided insights into the relationship between career and personal resilience and how personal resilience contributed to greater career resilience and the ability to positively adapt to the pandemic’s consequences. The quantitative analysis was complemented by a thematic analysis of the open-ended responses to identify the forms of organizational support that were important for resilience building during the pandemic. Organizational resources, such as training, mentoring, increased communication, and greater management support fostered employee adaptation to the pandemic shock. Evidence-based recommendations are made for AEC organizations to facilitate better workforce preparation for future adversities through providing effective resilience-promoting support mechanisms. The findings add to the body of knowledge by providing a better understanding of the importance of personal and career resilience and the role of organizational support in the process of resilience-building during adversities.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 361-378
Issue: 5
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2022.2096250
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2022.2096250
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# input file: RCME_A_2169316_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Qiuwen Ma
Author-X-Name-First: Qiuwen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ma
Author-Name: Sai On Cheung
Author-X-Name-First: Sai On
Author-X-Name-Last: Cheung
Author-Name: Shan Li
Author-X-Name-First: Shan
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Title: Optimum risk/reward sharing framework to incentivize integrated project delivery adoption
Abstract:
The major benefit of integrated project delivery (IPD) is the involvement of stakeholders at the early stage of the project so that they can all contribute to project development. They would also work cooperatively towards the project goals that they have jointly developed. Moreover, IPD has not taken the market as promised by the aforementioned benefits due to two principal concerns. First, the conventional risk/reward sharing that has been developed for the principal-agent type of relationship has been used. Second, the reward has not been tailored to reflect the stochastic nature of the risks involved. This study proposes a novel risk/reward sharing framework that would alleviate these two concerns. Employing stochastic cooperative game theory and prospect theory as conceptual lenses, a more realistic risk/reward sharing framework is developed for IPD projects. The use of Pareto optimality enables the proposed framework to arrange incentives optimally with due regard to the risk propensity of the contracting parties. Setting the notional sharing approach as a fair starting point, the framework further introduces transfer payments to ensure fairness and retain optimum sharing at the same time. Both features would facilitate the structuring of multi-win sharing incentive to be incorporated with integrated project delivery. The operation of the proposed framework is illustrated by applying it to a real case. Wider adoption of IPD can be expected when the two principal concerns of IPD arrangements are addressed.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 519-535
Issue: 6
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2169316
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2169316
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# input file: RCME_A_2167218_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Algan Tezel
Author-X-Name-First: Algan
Author-X-Name-Last: Tezel
Author-Name: Lauri Koskela
Author-X-Name-First: Lauri
Author-X-Name-Last: Koskela
Title: Off-site construction in highways projects: management, technical, and technology perspectives from the United Kingdom
Abstract:
With a rich off-site construction (OSC) experience accumulated over the last two centuries, the United Kingdom (UK) is looking up to OSC to deliver its critical infrastructure projects in the next decade. Highway projects are good fits for OSC with their project characteristics. However, the extant OSC literature for highways is mostly about OSC elements’ design performance. Also, the OSC literature is predominantly building sector focused. Addressing this gap, the paper presents the findings of a research project, sponsored by the UK’s National Highways, which aims at understanding what needs to be done to improve the current OSC condition for highways projects in the UK from a management, technical and technological perspective. After a detailed literature review, 20 in-depth interviews with subject experts were conducted. The initial findings were validated through five highways projects as cases and then ranked by two focus groups using the Delphi method. Alongside revealing the current OSC condition, 95 suggestions (43 management-related, 23 technical opportunities, and 29 technology-related) were elicited and ranked by their impact potential. Some of the high-potential suggestions are developing a collaborative OSC decision making framework, a product design mindset, improving OSC digital product libraries, creating mobile OSC factories, and a design options repository. The findings revealed that many OSC challenges identified in the general or building sector focused OSC discussions exist also in the highways sector. It is recommended that the identified high and medium impact potential suggestions are prioritized by practitioners and policy makers to improve the current OSC condition.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 475-499
Issue: 6
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2167218
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2167218
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:6:p:475-499
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# input file: RCME_A_2167219_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Nyakundi M. Michieka
Author-X-Name-First: Nyakundi M.
Author-X-Name-Last: Michieka
Author-Name: Noha H. A. Razek
Author-X-Name-First: Noha H. A.
Author-X-Name-Last: Razek
Author-Name: Richard S. Gearhart
Author-X-Name-First: Richard S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gearhart
Title: Modelling the impact of oil price changes and investment decisions on construction wages in the U.S.
Abstract:
The U.S. construction industry has been known to employ workers without a college education and provide adequate compensation make ends meet. Today, job quality in the industry has deteriorated to a level where wages are too low, causing workers to rely on U.S. safety net programs. This may be exacerbated by oil price changes, especially in regions where the oil industry is a significant driver of the economy. In this paper, we investigate the effects of oil price dynamics on real wages in the construction industry. A non-linear ARDL and TAR model are used for the empirical exercise which focusses on six top oil producing counties in the U.S. Long-run findings indicate that a 10% increase in oil price increases construction wages by 1.4, 1.2 and 9.3% in Kern, Weld and McKenzie Counties, respectively. Short run estimates indicate that a positive shock to oil prices increases wages in McKenzie County, North Dakota. Results from the TAR model show that the impact of an expansionary monetary policy to increase investment – and accordingly, increase wages – is diluted when oil prices are below the low oil price threshold.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 500-518
Issue: 6
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2167219
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2167219
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:6:p:500-518
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# input file: RCME_A_2164934_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Kent J. Nielsen
Author-X-Name-First: Kent J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Nielsen
Author-Name: Marianne Törner
Author-X-Name-First: Marianne
Author-X-Name-Last: Törner
Author-Name: Anders Pousette
Author-X-Name-First: Anders
Author-X-Name-Last: Pousette
Author-Name: Martin Grill
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Grill
Title: National culture and occupational safety – a comparison of worker-level factors impacting safety for Danish and Swedish construction workers
Abstract:
Denmark and Sweden are societally and regulatory similar countries with large differences in occupational injury rates. Denmark has consistently had twice the rate of reported injuries compared to Sweden and a 45% higher rate of fatal injuries in the construction industry. The current study aims to further investigate the perceived underlying factors responsible for the difference in injury rate between Denmark and Sweden by examining the possible impact on safety climate and safety behaviour of cooperation, perceived organizational support, organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB), planning, safety motivation, and long-term orientation. The paper is based on a questionnaire study completed by 346 construction workers from 48 Swedish construction sites and 465 construction workers from 37 Danish construction sites. The results show that all six predictors were positively related with safety climate and/or safety behaviour in both countries. However, the level of the predictors was generally higher in Sweden, and there was a stronger positive relationship with the outcomes in Sweden than Denmark. Specifically, the valuation of cooperation and OCB, planning and long-term orientation were more dominant in Sweden. These differences illuminate some of the possible factors underlying the difference in injury rate between the Danish and Swedish construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 445-456
Issue: 6
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2164934
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2164934
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:6:p:445-456
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# input file: RCME_A_2165695_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Lynn Vosman
Author-X-Name-First: Lynn
Author-X-Name-Last: Vosman
Author-Name: Tom B. J. Coenen
Author-X-Name-First: Tom B. J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Coenen
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Author-Name: Klaasjan Visscher
Author-X-Name-First: Klaasjan
Author-X-Name-Last: Visscher
Title: Collaboration and innovation beyond project boundaries: exploring the potential of an ecosystem perspective in the infrastructure sector
Abstract:
Current societal challenges demand enduring engagement and the implementation of innovations. Unfortunately, the project-based nature of the construction industry fails to offer suitable conditions for innovation and change in terms of building long-term relationships and aligning incentives beyond the project scope. In this paper, we explore the potential of an innovation ecosystem perspective to reach sector-wide goals related to societal challenges in the infrastructure sector. Accordingly, five Dutch infrastructure cases were studied in terms of four characteristics: (1) actor heterogeneity; (2) strategic alignment of actors; (3) alignment with respect to a value proposition; and (4) governance structure. We found that the innovation ecosystem perspective has the potential to contribute to innovation in the sector, especially when specific innovations or knowledge building are pursued. In particular, the long-term perspective to collaboration in relation to addressing societal challenges and the shift to more relational ways of governance were found promising avenues for incorporation in the industry. The innovation ecosystem perspective in infrastructure, however, also poses substantial organizational, cultural, and processual challenges, such as adopting novel practices with respect to collaboration and establishing continuing informal relationships beyond the public procurement context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 457-474
Issue: 6
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2165695
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2165695
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:6:p:457-474
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# input file: RCME_A_2186454_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Vishal Singh
Author-X-Name-First: Vishal
Author-X-Name-Last: Singh
Author-Name: Marzia Bolpagni
Author-X-Name-First: Marzia
Author-X-Name-Last: Bolpagni
Title: Effects of trigger events on innovation behaviour: insights from the data collected from construction professionals during COVID-19
Abstract:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, several instances of innovation were reported in construction and other sectors, consistent with previously noted spikes in innovation activities during crises and environmental perturbations. Yet the behavioural mechanisms and factors leading to changes in the innovation behaviour of actors under environmental perturbation are not adequately understood. This paper studies such behavioural mechanisms and factors, building on the Excitable Innovation Behaviour Model (EIBM), which explains the voluntary or coercive change in the innovation behaviour of actors in terms of their stable state needs and excited stated needs. The findings build on data collected through an online survey (N = 266) and interviews (N = 14) during the COVID situation. The results show that environmental perturbations can trigger both an increase and decrease in innovation activities. Actors’ network dependencies, motivation, and years of experience influence their innovation behaviour. Environmental perturbation triggers accelerated alignment and shared prioritization of the needs of the different stakeholders, resulting in commitment and timely actions towards innovation from each stakeholder. Actors’ ability and financial stability at the time of the excitation trigger mediate their innovation behaviour, revealing similarities and differences between EIBM and Fogg’s Behavioural Model of persuasion. The grounding of EIBM in behavioural theories makes it potentially generalizable and compatible with other behavioural models and theories on innovation. The underlying state-change mechanisms in EIBM also make it amenable to developing a parametric and computational model of innovation adoption and diffusion. The research insights will inform innovation management strategies, including technology adoption roadmaps in the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 587-607
Issue: 7
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2186454
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2186454
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# input file: RCME_A_2187071_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Shanjing (Alexander) Zhou
Author-X-Name-First: Shanjing (Alexander)
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhou
Author-Name: Luigi Mosca
Author-X-Name-First: Luigi
Author-X-Name-Last: Mosca
Author-Name: Jennifer Whyte
Author-X-Name-First: Jennifer
Author-X-Name-Last: Whyte
Title: How the reliability of external competences shapes the modularization strategies of industrialized construction firms
Abstract:
Firms modularize as they move into industrialized construction. Prior research highlights the importance of their modularization strategies, arguing that firms can either build the competence for modularization internally or can source them externally. To understand what shapes a firm’s choice to use external competences in its modularization strategy, we studied three leading construction firms. In this multiple case study, Alpha, Beta and Gamma are leaders in Asian markets, using reinforced concrete solutions in high-rise industrialized construction. Where external competences are available, our analyses show the work firms do to make them reliable and that their choice to use external competences is shaped by their reliability. Alpha modularized in a context with little available external competences, so it built new competences in-house; Beta chose to use the externally available manufacturing and assembly competences, using standards, remote monitoring and control of product architectures to make them reliable for their use in modularization; Gamma had available competences in the external context and initially sought to use them, but reliability concerns led to it modularizing by acquiring the firms to bring these competences in-house. Our contribution is to show how ensuring the reliability of external competences shapes modularization strategies. Further, we have identified actions that firms can adopt to make external competences reliable through: (1) use of international standards, (2) quality control procedures, (3) control of product architectures, and 4) acquisition of external competences. We provide implications for practitioners and policy makers seeking to transition to industrialized construction; and discuss new areas for research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 608-619
Issue: 7
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2187071
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2187071
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# input file: RCME_A_2171450_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Qinjun Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Qinjun
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Yingbin Feng
Author-X-Name-First: Yingbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Feng
Author-Name: Kerry London
Author-X-Name-First: Kerry
Author-X-Name-Last: London
Author-Name: Peng Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Peng
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Title: Coping strategies for work and cultural stressors in multicultural construction workplaces: a study in Australia
Abstract:
Existing coping theories typically position coping as a reactive approach to managing mental health. Intercultural coping was proposed to positively deal with stressors and alleviate the negative impacts of stressors on mental health outcomes in multicultural workplaces. This study aims to investigate the role of intercultural coping strategies in influencing the relationships between stressors and mental health outcomes in multicultural construction workplaces. Data were collected from 252 construction workers in Australia using online questionnaire survey. Data were analysed using the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. The results revealed the moderating effect of positive coping strategies on the stressor-psychological outcome relationship. A worker who is open to cultural dissimilarity tends to suffer less the adverse effect of cultural stressors on mental health. A worker with cognitive complexity is less susceptible to the adverse impact of work stressors on mental health. Whereas, a worker who is performance-oriented is more vulnerable to the impact of work stressors on mental health. This study may contribute to the existing body of work by uncovering the moderating role of positive coping strategies and providing targeted and effective coping strategies in multicultural construction workplaces.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 537-553
Issue: 7
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2171450
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2171450
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# input file: RCME_A_2172195_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Fred Sherratt
Author-X-Name-First: Fred
Author-X-Name-Last: Sherratt
Author-Name: Ani Raiden
Author-X-Name-First: Ani
Author-X-Name-Last: Raiden
Title: Taking a new view for researching occupational safety in construction: site safety practice
Abstract:
The “New View” of occupational safety is gaining increased attention within both the construction industry and its associated academe. With the potential to overcome the current plateau in accident rates and support the further enhancement of occupational safety on sites, the “New View” offers an alternative approach to more traditional command driven safety management and instead takes a sociotechnical perspective, valorising the workers and acknowledging their contributions to the system in the form of adaptability and resilience. Yet empirical research of “New View” thinking and practice within construction is lacking. Meaningful research in this space demands non-positivistic approaches able to reveal nuanced and local insights able to inform and illuminate “New View” practices and the contexts in which they could potentially be implemented on sites. Here, we make a methodological contribution with the aim to advance empirical research in this space. Social practice theory is employed and evaluated as an approach able to make such a useful contribution. Through the exploration and explication of the block of “site safety practice,” we demonstrate the utility of this theoretical approach for “New View” researchers, whilst also making a fundamental contribution to knowledge in the form of insights of the local and situated contexts, in which “New View” thinking could be practically applied.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 554-575
Issue: 7
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2172195
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2172195
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# input file: RCME_A_2181980_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Alberto Cerezo-Narváez
Author-X-Name-First: Alberto
Author-X-Name-Last: Cerezo-Narváez
Author-Name: Manuel Otero-Mateo
Author-X-Name-First: Manuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Otero-Mateo
Author-Name: Andrés Pastor-Fernández
Author-X-Name-First: Andrés
Author-X-Name-Last: Pastor-Fernández
Title: Gates’ bidding model (revisited)
Abstract:
Gates’ (1967) bidding model was one of the earliest proposed for construction bidding. Its most celebrated formula allows for calculating the probability of any bidder submitting the lowest bid when competing against several known competitors. This model has been shown to outperform many recent bidding models. However, it also suffers from important limitations that keep it from being applied in wider contexts. In this paper, we overcome two of such limitations. First, we extend Gates’ model to calculate the probability of a bidder ending in any position other than the first (lowest). Second, we propose an approach for extrapolating the probabilities of all bidders underbidding each other, even in those situations of limited access to historical bidding information. Overcoming these limitations significantly enhances Gates’ model in two ways. First, it allows anticipating the probabilities of winning an auction in best value auctions where bidders who submitted a competitive but not necessarily the lowest bid can still win. Second, our extension allows applying Gates’ formula in situations of incomplete information. This is especially interesting when some bidders have not met in previous auctions and there is no information from them individually underbidding each other.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 576-586
Issue: 7
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 7
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2181980
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2181980
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# input file: RCME_A_2192040_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Pekka Rajala
Author-X-Name-First: Pekka
Author-X-Name-Last: Rajala
Author-Name: Antti Ylä-Kujala
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Ylä-Kujala
Author-Name: Tiina Sinkkonen
Author-X-Name-First: Tiina
Author-X-Name-Last: Sinkkonen
Author-Name: Timo Kärri
Author-X-Name-First: Timo
Author-X-Name-Last: Kärri
Title: Building renovation business: the effects of specialization on profitability
Abstract:
The importance of renovations is widely recognized, for example, due to renovation backlogs in the developed countries. The urbanization megatrend, among many other factors, is still increasing the need for renovations in the long run. One approach to review the renovation issue is the profitability of the companies that will tackle the increasing demand in the sector. By applying mainly quantitative methods, using the 15-year timeframe (2005–2019) and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and return on assets (ROA) as measures, this study reviewed the profitability of the building renovation (BR) companies from two perspectives: how does focusing on certain special services (specialized BR) fare compared to focusing on a wide range of services (wide BR) and what are the profitability differences among specialized BR companies? The results show that, when reviewing the research timeframe in total, there are no differences in profitability between wide BR and specialized BR companies. However, an annual review reveals that specialized BR companies are profitability-wise more vulnerable to economic cycles. Among the specialized BR companies, there are several differences in profitability; classically, specialization in a niche market with a deliberate customer base and low competition level is gainful. The research provides new information about an unresearched area encouraging companies to re-think their strategic choices considering service specialization and performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 687-702
Issue: 8
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2192040
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2192040
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# input file: RCME_A_2189739_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Thi Binh An Duong
Author-X-Name-First: Thi Binh An
Author-X-Name-Last: Duong
Author-Name: Tho Pham
Author-X-Name-First: Tho
Author-X-Name-Last: Pham
Author-Name: Quang Huy Truong
Author-X-Name-First: Quang Huy
Author-X-Name-Last: Truong
Author-Name: Kevin Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Kevin
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Author-Name: Cong Hiep Pham
Author-X-Name-First: Cong Hiep
Author-X-Name-Last: Pham
Author-Name: Thu-Hang Hoang
Author-X-Name-First: Thu-Hang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoang
Author-Name: Thanh Hai Pham
Author-X-Name-First: Thanh Hai
Author-X-Name-Last: Pham
Title: Risk in sustainable construction supply chains: construct development and measurement validation
Abstract:
Although previous studies have focused on different aspects of green/sustainability risk in construction supply chains (SCs) such as identification of risks or the linkage between characteristics of stakeholders and risk assessment, research on this topic is still quite limited. One important reason for this limitation is the absence of valid and reliable measurement of risk, resulting in the impossibility to discriminate between risk constructs. Therefore, the current study is performed to develop and then validate a measurement scale of risk in sustainable construction SCs. The data are collected from a large-scale survey supported by the Japanese government to promote sustainable socioeconomic development for the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region, with the participation of 283 firms in Vietnam. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) are used to test the reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the risk constructs. The results indicate that all tests strongly support the measurement scale, and seven reliable risk constructs are identified including supply, demand, internal processes, information, financial, time, and environmental risks. This study also presents opportunities for further developing research on risk management (especially the three phases: risk assessment, risk mitigation, and risk monitoring) in sustainable construction SCs.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 634-650
Issue: 8
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2189739
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2189739
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# input file: RCME_A_2189278_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Sina Moradi
Author-X-Name-First: Sina
Author-X-Name-Last: Moradi
Author-Name: Piia Sormunen
Author-X-Name-First: Piia
Author-X-Name-Last: Sormunen
Title: Revisiting the concept of waste and its causes in construction from analytical and conceptual perspectives
Abstract:
The phenomenon of waste in the construction industry has received considerable attention from the project professionals since the emergence of lean construction. In the research community, however, identifying causes of waste together with waste detection and elimination in the context of construction have been addressed in a limited manner. Moreover, there are very few studies, if any, which have tried to revisit the concept of waste ontologically and to look into the causes of waste through the lens of their relation to other elements in construction projects such as delivery elements and lifecycle phases. Therefore, this study aims to fill this knowledge gap through developing a novel conceptualization of waste and exploring causes of waste in construction projects to reveal their connection to various project attributes. To do so, a systematic literature study was conducted through which relevant studies were located and analysed to achieve the purposes of this study. The findings propose a novel conceptualization of waste and value based on their overlooked components. Moreover, the results present a model which reveals the connection between the identified causes of waste and project attributes (life cycle phases, relevant party, project delivery element, and waste categories in general). The obtained results can be insightful for project practitioners and the research community to reach in-depth understanding of the waste concept.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 621-633
Issue: 8
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2189278
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2189278
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# input file: RCME_A_2190992_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Lilly Rosander
Author-X-Name-First: Lilly
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosander
Author-Name: Anna Kadefors
Author-X-Name-First: Anna
Author-X-Name-Last: Kadefors
Title: Implementing relational contracting in a public client organization: the influence of policy clashes, resources and project autonomy
Abstract:
Relational contracting models are increasingly being used for large and complex public infrastructure construction projects, but both practices and outcomes still widely vary. When analyzing the causes of failures and successes, most studies have focused on practices at the project level. In this paper, we add to the current understanding of relational contracting in public construction by examining the influence of factors at the organizational and institutional levels. We develop a framework based on theories of policy implementation and analyze two projects piloting a new Early Contractor Involvement model in a large public infrastructure client organization. In this case, a previous marketization policy, prescribing low client involvement in project processes, interfered with the relational contracting policy. This policy clash was not openly acknowledged from the start, despite causing significant confusion and frustration at the project level, but became recognizable largely through its consequences for resource allocation and managerial attention. We conclude that policy ambiguities, combined with a project-based implementation context, produce local interpretations and variations in relational contracting models. When project autonomy is high, industry-level agreements, standards and resources are important to align practices also between projects within the same client organization.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 651-669
Issue: 8
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2190992
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2190992
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:8:p:651-669
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# input file: RCME_A_2190993_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Yu-Lin Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Yu-Lin
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Tsen-Chin Lin
Author-X-Name-First: Tsen-Chin
Author-X-Name-Last: Lin
Title: Compound deferrable options for the valuation of multi-stage infrastructure investment projects
Abstract:
Multi-stage planning is common for expanding infrastructure complexes or networks. Previous real-option studies developed a sequential compound call option (SCCO) for evaluating multi-stage infrastructure investment projects, including evaluating abandonment options during individual pre-scheduled investment stages. In practice, however, investment schedules involve risk and uncertainties forcing investors to change plans, raising an important issue regarding investors having more options at each commencement date. This study introduces a new model, the sequential compound deferrable call option (SCDCO), incorporating deferment options for each fold in an n-fold setting and generalizing the exercise of each deferment option into mn periods. A closed-form solution to the valuation of SCDCO is derived accordingly. A real-world case demonstrates that introducing deferment options increases project value, but the marginal benefit of increasing deferment time diminishes. The presence of dedicated assets for the usage of future expansions can also increase project value, but this increase is restricted by deferment options. Furthermore, the investment cost growth with an increase of deferment time rapidly decreases project value and vice versa. Inflation or deflation is therefore important to consider in deferment decisions. Finally, although deferment options only produce limited project value, they have the flexibility to manage risks, changes, and budgetary constraints.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 670-686
Issue: 8
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 8
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2190993
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2190993
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:8:p:670-686
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# input file: RCME_A_2195195_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Jeppe Zielinski Nguyen Ajslev
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe Zielinski Nguyen
Author-X-Name-Last: Ajslev
Author-Name: Jeppe Lykke Møller
Author-X-Name-First: Jeppe Lykke
Author-X-Name-Last: Møller
Title: The art of role-switching–positioning practices and the relational roles of OSH coordinators in the Danish construction industry
Abstract:
The occupational safety and health (OSH) coordinator is an important figure for improving OSH in the construction industry. Working as an OSH coordinator is complicated, and coordinators must attend to many different roles to improve OSH. Recent research has even questioned the effectiveness of OSH professional practice. This points to a need to understand how OSH coordinators position themselves in relation to different roles when performing effective OSH coordination. This study aims to expand upon this question by analyzing how OSH coordinators position themselves in situations leading to the implementation of OSH measures. In the study, practices of OSH coordinators in the Danish construction industry are analyzed by “zooming in” on micro-sociological positioning practices observed during 107 days of ethnographic fieldwork, e.g. speech acts, and by “zooming out” on the links between these positioning practices and the implementation of OSH measures. The study contributes to OSH research and practice in several ways; firstly, the study conceptualizes a typology of practices connected to the relational roles of OSH professionals. Secondly, it expands upon how negotiating for the implementation of OSH measures is a relationally complex matter in which OSH coordinators switch between positioning themselves as alliance builders, authorities, challengers, experts, influencers, and champions. Improving attention and education to accommodate this knowledge may contribute to the creation of more tangible borders around the OSH professional practice, and more impactful OSH practice in terms of implementing measures.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 703-723
Issue: 9
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2195195
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2195195
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:9:p:703-723
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# input file: RCME_A_2196431_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Lei Cui
Author-X-Name-First: Lei
Author-X-Name-Last: Cui
Title: Collusion governance strategies under the construction supervision system in China
Abstract:
The construction supervision system plays an essential role in promoting the development of Chinese construction industry. However, as the core of the supervision system, the supervisor may deviate from duty and collude with the contractor to seek more profits. This paper investigates optimal collusion governance strategies under the prevailing supervision system. This paper develops a game-theoretic framework including an owner, a supervisor and a contractor, wherein all players interact and pursue to maximize their self-profits. The collusion equilibrium and the collusion-proof equilibrium are explored. Since the game contains multiple rounds of strategic interactions, backward induction is applied to ensure subgame perfection. The results show that collusion makes the supervision system not always in the owner’s interests. For projects recommended to implement the supervision system, the boundary condition for the owner applying the supervision system is derived. For projects required mandatory supervision, the owner prefers to let the contractor and supervisor collude under certain conditions and guard against collusive behaviours otherwise. This study contributes to the theory by exploring the effects of covert collusion and optimal governance strategies. In addition, this study can assist the owner in better understanding and managing agent collusion to safeguard the project quality.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 724-738
Issue: 9
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2196431
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2196431
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# input file: RCME_A_2197651_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Bowen Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Bowen
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Author-Name: Peng Huang
Author-X-Name-First: Peng
Author-X-Name-Last: Huang
Author-Name: Wenxue Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Wenxue
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: How to foster contractors’ in-role and extra-role behavior: the role of interpersonal ties and dependence asymmetry
Abstract:
Boundary spanners of construction projects are representatives of the interaction between the client and the contractor, and their good interpersonal ties are a catalyst for the development of cooperation between the two organizations and play an important role in project success. However, in the existing research, the relationship between interpersonal ties and cooperative behavior is still controversial, and little attention is paid to the individual level of construction projects. Therefore, this study explores the influence mechanism of each dimension of boundary spanners’ interpersonal ties (obligatory ties, instrumental ties, and affective ties) on contractors’ cooperative behavior (in-role and extra-role behavior) and the moderating effect of dependence asymmetry. The data from 248 questionnaires completed by practitioners in the Chinese construction industry show that obligatory ties positively affect contractors’ in-role and extra-role behavior, and the correlation between obligatory ties and in-role and extra-role behavior is positively moderated by dependence asymmetry. Moreover, instrumental ties are positively related to contractors’ in-role and extra-role behavior. However, affective ties only positively affect contractors’ extra-role behavior, and this effect is negatively moderated by dependence asymmetry. These findings have implications for clients and contractors and can help them maintain their relationships, thus improving project performance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 739-757
Issue: 9
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2197651
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2197651
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# input file: RCME_A_2205158_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Rebecca Dickson
Author-X-Name-First: Rebecca
Author-X-Name-Last: Dickson
Title: What’s it going to take? Lessons learned from COVID-19 and worker mental health in the Australian construction industry
Abstract:
In Australia, rates of suicide and poor mental health among construction workers were high before the COVID-19 pandemic. “Lock downs”, “restrictions”, “social distancing” and legislative changes responding to the pandemic have likely exacerbated the working conditions that foster poor mental health. This study analyses the way in which workplace health and safety (WHS) is regulated in Australia against the backdrop of existing research relating to the development of Australia’s WHS laws, and the state of mental health of those working in Australia’s construction industry. This study was conducted using a doctrinal research methodology and utilising legal theory. This study assesses the capacity of the Australian WHS regulatory system to protect construction workers’ mental health by examining and interpreting key provisions in Australia’s WHS laws. It then uses a regulatory theory, responsive regulation, to explain the inconsistency between the capacity of those laws to safeguard mental health and the very poor state of mental health of Australia’s construction workers. The conclusion reached is that there is scope to improve current WHS laws to better protect construction workers’ mental health. A recommendation is made, that current WHS laws are changed to prescribe minimum standards of worker mental health, and mandate control measures to minimise and/or eliminate psychosocial risks. It is submitted that these changes in the law will contribute to a changed culture in Australia’s construction sector, which is supportive of mentally healthy workplaces and workers.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 758-780
Issue: 9
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2205158
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2205158
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:9:p:758-780
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# input file: RCME_A_2205159_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Frank Ato Ghansah
Author-X-Name-First: Frank Ato
Author-X-Name-Last: Ghansah
Author-Name: Weisheng Lu
Author-X-Name-First: Weisheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Lu
Title: Responses to the COVID-19 pandemic in the construction industry: a literature review of academic research
Abstract:
Over the past 3 years, the global construction sector has been severely affected by the noxious coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Visionary construction stakeholders, including governments, practitioners, and academia, all have been actively devising strategies to deal with the crisis caused by the pandemic. Despite the rich contributions by academia, an in-depth review of their research works to understand how the pandemic has been handled to position the construction industry for post-pandemic actions and future pandemics is hitherto lacking. Hence, an up-to-date literature review is conducted in this study to better understand this terra incognita. It does so by adopting a six-step thematic analysis of 159 empirical peer-reviewed research articles in relation to COVID-19 on construction. The review discovered a growing research interest from different countries from 2020 to 2022. The existing studies can be put under four major topics, namely the COVID-19 impacts, challenges and opportunities, responding strategies, and post-COVID-19 interventions. A framework consisting of four categories of responding strategies, namely vaccination, personal responsibility of workers, government-instructional practices, and organisation-based approaches, is proposed through the lens of the socio-technical system theory to handle the pandemic crisis in construction. Limitations of the existing studies were further identified. Four pertinent research directions were finally proposed: building upon and testing the proposed COVID-19 response framework, adoption of more advanced innovative strategies to increase productivity amid pandemics and survive the risk of future pandemics, beyond the technological response to COVID-19 in construction, and post-pandemic view of the construction industry. This study contributes to the knowledge body by providing a candid evaluation of the knowledge contributed by academia to deal with the risks of future pandemics in the global construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 781-803
Issue: 9
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 9
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2205159
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2205159
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# input file: RCME_A_2210693_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Cheng Wu
Author-X-Name-First: Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Wu
Author-Name: Naomi Brookes
Author-X-Name-First: Naomi
Author-X-Name-Last: Brookes
Author-Name: Christine Unterhitzenberger
Author-X-Name-First: Christine
Author-X-Name-Last: Unterhitzenberger
Author-Name: Nancy Olson
Author-X-Name-First: Nancy
Author-X-Name-Last: Olson
Title: The role of lean information flows in disaster construction projects: exploring the UK’s Covid surge hospital projects
Abstract:
A substantive body of work in project studies argues that an “information flow” lens is very useful in exploring the project management of construction. This paper posits that this is even more applicable to disaster construction projects and, furthermore, lean information flow may play a role in swiftly delivering the disaster construction project. The paper uses the qualitative empirics of the delivery of the UK’s Covid surge hospital projects to demonstrate that lean information flows were employed in these projects and assisted in enabling delivery at speed. The paper also describes the autopoietic governance conditions that are necessary for lean information flows to flourish in disaster construction projects and the role that trust may play in these conditions. It warns against some of the drawbacks in enabling lean communication through autopoietic governance.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 840-858
Issue: 10
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2210693
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2210693
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# input file: RCME_A_2209667_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Buddhini Ginigaddara
Author-X-Name-First: Buddhini
Author-X-Name-Last: Ginigaddara
Author-Name: Srinath Perera
Author-X-Name-First: Srinath
Author-X-Name-Last: Perera
Author-Name: Yingbin Feng
Author-X-Name-First: Yingbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Feng
Author-Name: Payam Rahnamayiezekavat
Author-X-Name-First: Payam
Author-X-Name-Last: Rahnamayiezekavat
Author-Name: Russell Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Russell
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Title: Development of offsite construction skill profile prediction models using mixed-effect regression analysis
Abstract:
Offsite construction (OSC) transfers onsite construction activities to factory-based processes utilising technological advancements, resulting in new and emerging skills while causing some existing skills to be changed and others to be redundant. However, there are no established methods to systematically quantify these OSC skill requirements. This paper presents OSC skill prediction models while highlighting the process of model development for future research. The aim of these models is to predict skills using a comparable measure, manhours/m2. A skill classification with six skill categories was used to analyse OSC skills. Numerical model development methods were reviewed, and mixed-effect regression modelling was selected for model development. The skills data needed for regression modelling was collected using eight case studies. Predominantly panelised and modular OSC projects were used to collect skills data. The skill prediction models were validated using further case study data and an expert forum. Comparatively, modules OSC type requires higher skill quantities than panels, for all the six skill categories analysed. Onsite and offsite skill requirements vary for different OSC types. Additionally, complex, non-linear relationships were recognised between OSC types and the utilisation of their skills. This research presents unique OSC skill prediction models that can provide early-stage advice to policymakers, project planners and manufacturers on OSC skill requirements. It also provides a novel methodology to develop predictive models for specific industry scenarios that have non-linear and complex relationships.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 820-839
Issue: 10
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2209667
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2209667
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# input file: RCME_A_2211179_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Qian Xu
Author-X-Name-First: Qian
Author-X-Name-Last: Xu
Author-Name: Bon-Gang Hwang
Author-X-Name-First: Bon-Gang
Author-X-Name-Last: Hwang
Author-Name: Rui Qi Choo
Author-X-Name-First: Rui Qi
Author-X-Name-Last: Choo
Author-Name: Xian Zheng
Author-X-Name-First: Xian
Author-X-Name-Last: Zheng
Author-Name: Lei Kong
Author-X-Name-First: Lei
Author-X-Name-Last: Kong
Author-Name: Qian-Cheng Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Qian-Cheng
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Xuan Liu
Author-X-Name-First: Xuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Liu
Title: Comparison of construction project risks before and during COVID-19 in Singapore: criticality and management strategies
Abstract:
The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has caused worldwide disruption in construction industry. Although an increasing number of construction projects have been resumed, construction industry still faces significant risks due to the pandemic. The comparison of risk factors faced by construction industry before and during the pandemic helps us understand the dynamic risk transformation brought by the pandemic; however, few efforts have been made to understand the risk changes in construction sector. This study assessed the likelihood, impact, and criticality of risks brought by the pandemic in construction industry through a comparative analysis using Singapore as an example and proposed an innovative risk management solution to manage these risks accordingly. Survey questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were adopted. The finding indicated effective relief measures from the government to relieve the contractors’ liability in Singapore. Due to the pandemic, prioritized likelihood of risk occurrence changed from financial risk to labour shortage. Moreover, the finding highlighted that safety and health risks required significant attention, as they were ranked top in both periods. This study aids the understanding of how prioritized risks shifted during the pandemic and enlightens a promising and scalable risk management solution for industry stakeholders to establish better recovery from similar pandemics.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 875-891
Issue: 10
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2211179
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2211179
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# input file: RCME_A_2210695_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Erwin Biersteker
Author-X-Name-First: Erwin
Author-X-Name-Last: Biersteker
Author-Name: Alfons Van Marrewijk
Author-X-Name-First: Alfons Van
Author-X-Name-Last: Marrewijk
Title: Integrating knowledge in infrastructure projects: the interplay between formal and informal knowledge governance mechanisms
Abstract:
This study focuses upon knowledge governance mechanisms of integrating specialised knowledge on underground utilities in large infrastructure projects. The integration of knowledge is essential for the realisation of such projects. The study explores the formal and informal knowledge governance mechanisms in three large infrastructure projects and compares these mechanisms to reveal their effects on knowledge integration. The findings show that combining reward systems, project culture and trust are targeting the motivation of underground experts to share their knowledge and allocation of authority and project network are mechanisms aimed at the coordination between managers and underground experts to integrate knowledge. We contribute to studies on knowledge governance by enabling further empirical insight in the relationships between formal and informal mechanisms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 859-874
Issue: 10
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2210695
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2210695
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:10:p:859-874
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# input file: RCME_A_2208238_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Michelle Turner
Author-X-Name-First: Michelle
Author-X-Name-Last: Turner
Author-Name: Sarah Holdsworth
Author-X-Name-First: Sarah
Author-X-Name-Last: Holdsworth
Title: Developing resilience: examining the protective factors of early career construction professionals
Abstract:
Work in construction is highly demanding and stressful. Graduates must navigate these imminent challenges as well as the challenges associated with transition as they enter their new learning environment and seek to establish their professional identity. This research examined how resilience can support the transition of early career construction professionals from university into the workforce. Interviews were conducted with twenty-five participants and data was thematically analyzed. Challenges experienced by participants related to structural and cultural conditions of working in construction as well as the transitional career stage. Internal protective factors of emotional objectivity, reflection, goal setting, and physical and mental health emerged as important in positively responding to workplace adversity. Task-related and emotion-related organizational support were considered as important external protective factors that can facilitate the development of internal protective factors. Yet, formal organizational support was often not provided. Findings can inform the design of work and workplace programs which support this new cohort of workers to adapt to an unfamiliar and demanding work environment, as well as provide guidance to university construction management programs on ways to support the development of internal protective factors of emerging professionals. Furthermore, it is expected that students transitioning from university to work, irrespective of discipline, will progress through the three stages of the liminal experience and its possible that access to protective factors supporting resilience may assist students to positively move through this process.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 805-819
Issue: 10
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 10
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2208238
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2208238
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# input file: RCME_A_2214252_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Pernilla Gluch
Author-X-Name-First: Pernilla
Author-X-Name-Last: Gluch
Author-Name: Stina Hellsvik
Author-X-Name-First: Stina
Author-X-Name-Last: Hellsvik
Title: The influence of multiple logics on the work of sustainability professionals
Abstract:
Organizational aspects, rather than technological ones, often represent the greatest barrier in the transition toward sustainable construction. However, despite sustainability professionals’ recognized role in sustainable development, few studies have focused on such professionals’ work. To understand the intrinsic influence of multiple institutional logics on the work and agency of sustainability professionals, we conducted 31 semi-structured interviews with sustainability professionals in Sweden’s construction industry. Building on the theoretical framework of institutional logics, the findings show how sustainability professionals’ everyday work, depending on the work conditions, is a blend of thankless, rewarding collaborative, and visionary work. In the organizational context of sustainable construction, characterized by dynamism and ambiguity, different institutional logics are combined in different ways to respond to shifting demands and problems. To maintain agency, sustainability professionals need to shift and balance their work depending on which logics are temporarily central. Showcasing how professionals cope with institutional contexts defined by multiple logics, the paper highlights the complexity involved in managing the vastness and ambiguity of sustainability and how it requires individuals to be both flexible and sensitive to the existence of multiple logics in their immediate context.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 893-909
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2214252
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2214252
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:41:y:2023:i:11-12:p:893-909
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# input file: RCME_A_2216319_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Xiuqin Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Xiuqin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Shufan Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Shufan
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Ying Gao
Author-X-Name-First: Ying
Author-X-Name-Last: Gao
Title: Optimal equity structure of PPP projects when private-sector shareholders’ “investor-contractor” dual roles is considered
Abstract:
More often than not, in typical public-private partnership (PPP) projects, the construction contractor (CC) and operating contractor (OC) serve as shareholders simultaneously. CC and OC shareholders have different payback periods and paths, which may result in opportunistic risk. Therefore, an optimal equity structure is required to lower this risk. Based on cooperative game theory, a game model was developed to determine the optimal equity structure between CC and OC. The findings indicate that when the relative complexity of PPP project construction is higher than that of operation, CC should be given a higher equity ratio. Conversely, when the relative complexity of PPP project operation is higher, OC should be given a higher equity ratio. When the construction and operation of the project are equally complex, allocating equity ratios according to market value can reduce transaction costs, based on transaction cost theory. The findings also suggest that increasing CC’s equity ratio can effectively motivate them to better complete the construction work in the long run when the benefits of construction quality are significant. As for OC, increasing bonuses is also an effective incentive method. These findings provide insights into the design of the equity structure of PPP projects to enhance their success.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 910-925
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2216319
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2216319
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# input file: RCME_A_2218498_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Réka Andersson
Author-X-Name-First: Réka
Author-X-Name-Last: Andersson
Author-Name: Maria Eidenskog
Author-X-Name-First: Maria
Author-X-Name-Last: Eidenskog
Title: Beyond barriers – exploring resistance towards BIM through a knowledge infrastructure framework
Abstract:
Building information modelling (BIM) is a digital tool that offers the possibility to collect and share a multitude of data about a building and increase collaboration across professional borders. However, the uptake of BIM in the construction industry has been relatively slow, and previous research has shown how BIM creates tensions in the workplace. In this article, we explore the impact of BIM on socio-technical knowledge practices, to understand how these are enabled or restricted by the use of BIM. Through a qualitative case study in Sweden, this article analyses BIM through a knowledge infrastructure framework to explain the relatively slow uptake of BIM in a new light. The results show that BIM lacks embeddedness in governmental and corporate practices and regulations and that it sometimes leads to the marginalization of some professions through changed organizations and the slow process of changing complex knowledge infrastructures. This suggests that a critical discussion of the role of BIM in relation to professional flexibility, construction project process organization and power over technological development is vital for the future development of the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 926-941
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2218498
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2218498
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# input file: RCME_A_2220832_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Jun Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Jun
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Xiaodong Li
Author-X-Name-First: Xiaodong
Author-X-Name-Last: Li
Author-Name: Ashkan Memari
Author-X-Name-First: Ashkan
Author-X-Name-Last: Memari
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Author-Name: Yuying Zhong
Author-X-Name-First: Yuying
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhong
Author-Name: Baabak Ashuri
Author-X-Name-First: Baabak
Author-X-Name-Last: Ashuri
Title: Data-driven assessment on the corporate credit scoring mechanism for Chinese construction supervision companies
Abstract:
Construction supervision companies (CSCs) in China are engaged by owners mainly to ensure a project is constructed safely and to the quality standards as required under the law in a supervision system that has existed for decades, their credibility and integrity being vital for project safety assurance and quality control. Recently, the Chinese government has proposed a credit scoring mechanism to assess the credibility of CSCs and requested the incorporation of credit scores into the CSC selection processes for public projects. This study investigates the status quo of the credit scoring mechanism and evaluates how credit scores have impacted the competitiveness of CSCs when bidding for supervising public projects by analyzing the bidding results of 5582 public projects and credit scores of 514 CSCs in Nanjing, the capital city of Jiangsu Province in China. The results show that (1) the average CSC credit scores have followed a downward trend in recent years; (2) the score weights in the selection process have significantly increased and the scores start to impact on bidding results when their weights are at or above 4%; (3) signs of local protectionism have been observed as local CSCs have significantly higher credit scores than non-local CSCs; and (4) high scoring CSCs are more competitive than others in terms of revenue generation. The study provides an insightful understanding of China’s existing credit scoring mechanism and its impact on the selection of CSCs for public sector projects, often a major concern of policymakers, researchers, and industry practitioners.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 961-975
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2220832
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2220832
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# input file: RCME_A_2219351_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20230119T200553 git hash: 724830af20
Author-Name: Geoff Woolcott
Author-X-Name-First: Geoff
Author-X-Name-Last: Woolcott
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Robyn Keast
Author-X-Name-First: Robyn
Author-X-Name-Last: Keast
Author-Name: Dan Chamberlain
Author-X-Name-First: Dan
Author-X-Name-Last: Chamberlain
Title: Addressing youth un/underemployment through construction social procurement: an ecological systems theory perspective
Abstract:
Young people’s unemployment and underemployment are acknowledged as serious and enduring problems in Australia and globally. Construction is one of the largest employers of young people, and social procurement of construction products and services has significant potential if harnessed to address this problem. This article argues that project-based intermediation offers critical new insights into how social procurement can be implemented in a construction context. Employing a single case study approach, the article uses ecological systems theory and concept mapping to examine the results of focus groups with twelve young people who transitioned to employment in the Australian construction industry through a unique project-based intermediary set up by a major contractor to meet its social procurement requirements. Addressing the current under-theorisation of social procurement research, this article offers new conceptual insights into the socio-ecological networks that influence young people’s successful transition to employment in construction. The findings also provide new practical insights for government policymakers and the construction industry into the potential role that project-based intermediation can play in addressing youth unemployment in the context of emerging social procurement policies in many countries.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 942-960
Issue: 11-12
Volume: 41
Year: 2023
Month: 12
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2219351
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2219351
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# input file: RCME_A_2232889_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: George Denny-Smith
Author-X-Name-First: George
Author-X-Name-Last: Denny-Smith
Author-Name: Megan Williams
Author-X-Name-First: Megan
Author-X-Name-Last: Williams
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Author-Name: Riza Yosia Sunindijo
Author-X-Name-First: Riza Yosia
Author-X-Name-Last: Sunindijo
Author-Name: Leanne Piggott
Author-X-Name-First: Leanne
Author-X-Name-Last: Piggott
Title: What social value do Indigenous contractors create?
Abstract:
Governments have developed Indigenous procurement policies (IPPs) in Australia and other colonised countries with Indigenous populations to collaboratively close socioeconomic inequities experienced by Indigenous communities. These policies are widely used in the construction industry because of the volume of government spending on this sector and its significant social impact. However, recent research argues that Indigenous peoples’ notions of social value are not reflected in IPP designs, implementation, or evaluation frameworks. To investigate this claim, this research uses a holistic Aboriginal evaluation framework called ‘Ngaa-bi-nya’ to investigate how IPPs promote social value creation. Using community-based participatory research principles, semi-structured interviews were held with owners and senior managers of Indigenous construction companies in Australia. Findings highlight how social value is created by IPPs when Indigenous contractors use strategic actions to improve Indigenous socioeconomic outcomes, social and cultural development, create stronger connections in the construction industry and promote self-determination. The findings provide new conceptual and operational insights into how IPPs can create social value through partnerships with Indigenous contractors. The insights can be used by buyers and builders to strengthen social value in their supply chains through new ways of collaborative working to support social value creation. They also highlight potential risks of continuing to design and assess social value without the involvement of stakeholders for whom it is intended.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 16-34
Issue: 1
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2232889
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2232889
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# input file: RCME_A_2239381_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Basma Ben Mahmoud
Author-X-Name-First: Basma
Author-X-Name-Last: Ben Mahmoud
Author-Name: Nadia Lehoux
Author-X-Name-First: Nadia
Author-X-Name-Last: Lehoux
Author-Name: Pierre Blanchet
Author-X-Name-First: Pierre
Author-X-Name-Last: Blanchet
Title: Integration mechanisms for material suppliers in the construction supply chain: a systematic literature review
Abstract:
The construction industry has long been criticized for its fragmented, inefficient, and uncoordinated supply chain. Thus, construction companies are actively looking for new strategies to overcome these issues and to improve their productivity. Supply chain integration is one strategy and many articles have addressed the mechanisms to help integrate the construction supply chain. However, little interest has been paid to material supplier integration despite their important role and their vast experience in the market. Hence, this study aims to identify the mechanisms that could contribute to facilitate material supplier integration in the construction supply chain. A systematic literature review was conducted to uncover the studies on this topic. A total of 310 articles were reviewed and analyzed to first reveal six integration mechanism categories: supplier qualification, supplier development program, contractual and relational policies, information sharing and integration systems, joint team working and problem solving, as well as supplier integration evaluation. Secondly, this study proposes a roadmap to illustrate when these mechanisms should be implemented in a construction project, according to both the project phases and the project delivery system. Finally, research gaps in the field are identified as well as future research directions that could be further explored by researchers and professionals.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 70-107
Issue: 1
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2239381
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2239381
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# input file: RCME_A_2235439_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Sujuan Zhang
Author-X-Name-First: Sujuan
Author-X-Name-Last: Zhang
Author-Name: Roine Leiringer
Author-X-Name-First: Roine
Author-X-Name-Last: Leiringer
Author-Name: Graham Winch
Author-X-Name-First: Graham
Author-X-Name-Last: Winch
Title: Procuring infrastructure public-private partnerships: capability development and learning from an owner perspective
Abstract:
The expanding application of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure development and public service delivery has posed numerous commercial challenges for public sector owners (PSOs) regarding their capabilities to initiate, procure and manage PPP projects. This paper starts from the important role of owner project capabilities in infrastructure delivery and explores how PSOs learn to develop new commercial capabilities to match the PPP context. We draw on a qualitative single-case study of a state-owned enterprise in the Chinese context, which at the time of the study was in the early stages of applying the PPP approach in procuring metro line projects. The finding indicates the process of how the PSO learned to establish and develop the necessary owner commercial capabilities to procure infrastructure PPPs for the first time, such as the abilities to define project scope, procure, and manage suppliers. It sheds light on the roles of different types of learning mechanisms – experience accumulation, knowledge articulation, and knowledge codification – on capability development for PPPs over time from an owner perspective.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 35-53
Issue: 1
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2235439
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2235439
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# input file: RCME_A_2236249_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Trinh Nguyen Chau
Author-X-Name-First: Trinh
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen Chau
Author-Name: Thi Thu Tra Pham
Author-X-Name-First: Thi Thu Tra
Author-X-Name-Last: Pham
Author-Name: Thi Cam Van Ha
Author-X-Name-First: Thi Cam Van
Author-X-Name-Last: Ha
Author-Name: Duy Nguyen
Author-X-Name-First: Duy
Author-X-Name-Last: Nguyen
Title: Corruption, market structure, and industry competition in the Vietnamese construction sector
Abstract:
The Vietnamese construction sector is arguably the country’s industry most vulnerable to corruption, leading to poor functioning of the sector. This analysis empirically investigates how corruption affects competition in the construction industry, and how different market structures shape different types of corruption and its potentially different impacts. Our empirical models for industry competition are estimated on a panel of 33,045 year-observations using the Fractional Binomial Logit model. The findings demonstrate that corruption reduces competition, and that the effects of corruption depend on the type of corruption and market structure in which firms operate. We find evidence that corruption is characterized by collusion between local authorities and dominant firms in highly concentrated markets, leading to the persistent concentration of the sector in highly corrupt areas. In areas with lower corruption, corruption is characterized by bureaucratic holdups while lowered corruption increases industry competition. Petty corruption is observed in less corrupt areas while it does not affect industry competition. The finding suggests that promoting transparency in public procurement regulatory processes enhances industry competition and mitigates corruption risks associated with different market structures. Additionally, implementing reforms to ensure equitable access to reliable public reporting and services can facilitate a more concentrated yet efficient industry structure.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 54-69
Issue: 1
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2236249
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2236249
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# input file: RCME_A_2226261_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Jorge Rueda-Benavides
Author-X-Name-First: Jorge
Author-X-Name-Last: Rueda-Benavides
Author-Name: Douglas Gransberg
Author-X-Name-First: Douglas
Author-X-Name-Last: Gransberg
Author-Name: Mohamed Khalafalla
Author-X-Name-First: Mohamed
Author-X-Name-Last: Khalafalla
Author-Name: Cesar Mayorga
Author-X-Name-First: Cesar
Author-X-Name-Last: Mayorga
Title: Probabilistic cost-based decision-making matrix: IDIQ vs. DBB contracting
Abstract:
Public departments of transportation (DOTs) are increasingly adopting alternative contracting methods (ACMs), such as Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreements, to shorten project delivery and increase scheduling flexibility. However, the challenge remains to decide when an IDIQ contract would offer better value for money in a project compared to the conventional Design-Bid-Build (DBB) method. This paper proposes an IDIQ project selection framework that incorporates expected construction costs to identify suitable candidate projects. Historical bid data, an alternate cost indexing system, nonlinear regression analysis, and the Monte Carlo simulation technique are used to create and compare IDIQ and DBB probabilistic construction cost estimates. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the framework using a single-award IDIQ granted through the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and past bidding information for projects awarded between January 2008 and April 2015. Additionally, the paper acknowledges the limitations of the study, including its reliance on MnDOT data, the exclusion of non-cost factors, and the assumption of project homogeneity. The study also provides valuable recommendations for future research to address these limitations and enhance the understanding and practical implementation of IDIQ contracting in the construction industry.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 1-15
Issue: 1
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 1
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2226261
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2226261
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# input file: RCME_A_2181367_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Susanna Hedborg
Author-X-Name-First: Susanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Hedborg
Author-Name: Lilly Rosander
Author-X-Name-First: Lilly
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosander
Title: Self-organizing in urban development: developers coordinating between construction projects
Abstract:
Sustainable urban development districts have become an answer to the challenge of increasing urbanization while decreasing human impact on the environment. Like other domains of public administration, urban development has in recent decades moved towards heterogeneous governance. Urban development becomes project ecologies, where several construction projects are carried out in parallel and in sequence. This paper sheds light on public and private developers’ coordinating between their construction projects and the influence this has on the built environment of urban development districts. The space between projects in project ecologies is relevant to explore further to understand how the long-term goals of urban policy are achieved in practice. Through the theoretical lens of self-organizing, the discussion is informed by a qualitative study of two cases where developers built together in sustainable profiled urban development districts. The paper contributes to construction management research by illustrating how developers play a key role in finalizing the design and construction of new districts through self-organizing. In effect, new urban districts can only be realized through joint efforts and coordination amongst developers. The paper also provides policymakers with insights into how developers become key players in organizing new neighborhoods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 116-130
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2181367
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2181367
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# input file: RCME_A_2306213_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Andrew Karvonen
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Karvonen
Title: Expanding the field: combining construction management and urban studies to address grand societal challenges
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-115
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2024.2306213
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2024.2306213
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# input file: RCME_A_2232893_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Anette Hallin
Author-X-Name-First: Anette
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallin
Author-Name: Peter Dobers
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Dobers
Title: Stakeholder involvement in distributed projects: a performative approach to large scale urban sustainable development projects and the case of Stockholm Royal Seaport
Abstract:
The involvement of stakeholders in large scale urban sustainable development projects (LSUSDP.s) has proven difficult. The stakeholders are distributed across the geographical area, and they have stakes not only in the LSUSDP, but in the geographical location where the project takes place. To understand stakeholder management in “distributed projects”, we propose abandoning the “inside-out” perspective where the project is the point of departure, and focus on the emergence of stakeholders across time. Adopting such a performative, “outside-in,” perspective on the longitudinal and digital study of a LSUSDP, we are able to map how actors became stakeholders in the project through their actions. The paper makes four contributions. First, we reconceptualize stakeholder involvement by adopting a performative perspective, whereby “stakeholders” are envisaged as emergent and non-fixed. Second, we demonstrate how such a reconceptualization may be applied to the analysis of an empirical case. Third, we show that stakeholder involvement is not merely the result of stakeholder management but something that happens over time, through the material and discursive actions of those that become stakeholders. Finally, the paper contributes with an illustration of how the online, digital footprint, of a project may be useful to understand the emergence of a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 148-163
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2232893
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2232893
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:2:p:148-163
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# input file: RCME_A_2222190_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Robert J Rogerson
Author-X-Name-First: Robert J
Author-X-Name-Last: Rogerson
Author-Name: Bob Giddings
Author-X-Name-First: Bob
Author-X-Name-Last: Giddings
Author-Name: Marcus Jefferies
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Jefferies
Title: Constructing the future of the city centre: realizing visions
Abstract:
As cities are being asked to transition to a new future shaped by significant social, economic and environmental challenges, renewed attention is being given to the urban development process, and on how this process has to be more inclusive, and the outcomes more coherent. With past notions of masterplans as a single, fixed visionary document being replaced with guiding strategies, open to interpretation, there is a greater need for different disciplines to engage together throughout the development process. This paper explores opportunities and needs for construction management to be more actively involved in the reshaping of the city centre, from the envisioning of its future to the realization of change. Through the lens of the process of change in four city centres across the world, this paper outlines how discussing construction management could beneficially engage with other urban disciplines to create a shared vision for centres as part of local governance. It argues for construction management adopt a wider spatial and temporal perspective that looks beyond specific buildings, site and projects to situate development in the urban and regional systems and to help be part of the envisioning process. Along with more critical engagement in the policy, design and construction processes for construction management, the paper points to a need for more local sensitivity and adaptation including an appreciation of the contribution of public spaces and a different approach to urban development if the city centre is to be more sustainable in future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 131-147
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2222190
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2222190
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# input file: RCME_A_2264969_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Lizet Kuitert
Author-X-Name-First: Lizet
Author-X-Name-Last: Kuitert
Author-Name: Jannes Willems
Author-X-Name-First: Jannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Willems
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: Value integration in multi-functional urban projects: a value driven perspective on sustainability transitions
Abstract:
Sustainable urban development requires the integration of diverse values to achieve multi-functional goals. Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) projects can be considered as pioneers in value integration. By combining bureaucratic innovations (BI) and social innovations (SI) these BGI projects are able to reach a more holistic development that is characterised as a value-driven approach for sustainability transitions. In this study on BGI projects, we aim to learn how to deliver multi-functional projects through different interpretation of four factors, i.e. professional culture, governance level, geographical space, and time conception, in various constellations of BI and SI. Results of our cross-case study of four BGI projects in three European countries (the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden) indicate that project with higher degrees of value integration balance BI and SI in following four ways: (i) heterogeneity in professions in value-decision-making, (ii) multi-level governance embedded in institutional frameworks, (iii) connecting city-wide and neighbourhood levels by boundary spanners, and (iv) having a dynamic time conception. Our findings imply that social innovation experiences on projects has to fit into the bureaucratic environment to achieve true value integration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 184-200
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2264969
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2264969
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# input file: RCME_A_2247496_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20231214T103247 git hash: d7a2cb0857
Author-Name: Olli Vigren
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Vigren
Title: Ecosystems in construction management and urban development: a comprehensive review of conceptualizations and contributions
Abstract:
To solve grand challenges, the collaboration between construction management and urban development professionals is essential. This article proposes that ecosystem conceptualizations can enhance our understanding of collaboration, but how these concepts contribute to this field is unclear. Therefore, a literature review is presented on how ecosystem concepts are operationalized in construction management and urban development research. The article classifies conceptualizations into seven categories and analyzes their potential for contributions to ecosystem theorizing. An ecosystem research agenda is developed, arguing that it can serve as a theoretical bridge between these disciplines. The article also highlights how research on ecosystems in the built environment sector can contribute to management and organization research fields more broadly. Notably, conceptualizations of ecosystems as project-based or location-based are valuable contributions to ecosystem research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 164-183
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2247496
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2247496
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# input file: RCME_A_2259015_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Gulnaz Aksenova
Author-X-Name-First: Gulnaz
Author-X-Name-Last: Aksenova
Author-Name: Kwadwo Oti-Sarpong
Author-X-Name-First: Kwadwo
Author-X-Name-Last: Oti-Sarpong
Title: Beyond “platformania” in the construction sector: Conceptualisations and implications of product platformisation in the UK
Abstract:
The UK government’s recent transformation agenda focused on a Platform approach to Design for Manufacture and Assembly (P-DfMA) has attracted interest from the construction sector. A closer examination of the P-DfMA agenda raises questions about its origins and implications. This paper critically analyses grey sector literature, policy and government-supported reports on P-DfMA to discuss how it has been conceptualised, and the implications for the growing “platformania” in the UK construction sector. To this end, firstly platform conceptualisations are synthesised, and distinctions between product platforms and DfMA are highlighted. Secondly, based on an analysis of policy and related documents, five areas critical to driving the platformisation agenda are identified: Product platform development; digitally designed components; platform leadership and ownership; platform governance; and business models. The critical analysis suggests that product platformisation in the UK construction sector requires two distinct types of platform approaches: the product platform; and a transaction platform or a marketplace for buyers and sellers of the components of product platforms. The implications of both for the strategic organising of construction firms, and the five areas identified, are discussed and synthesised with the evidence from management literature. Practical and policy implications for sector stakeholders are outlined, along with questions for future research on product platformisation in the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 229-250
Issue: 3
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2259015
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2259015
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:3:p:229-250
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# input file: RCME_A_2260903_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Guy H. Walker
Author-X-Name-First: Guy H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Walker
Author-Name: Simona Foscarin-Kosmetatou
Author-X-Name-First: Simona
Author-X-Name-Last: Foscarin-Kosmetatou
Author-Name: Simon Marr
Author-X-Name-First: Simon
Author-X-Name-Last: Marr
Author-Name: Stephen Gillies
Author-X-Name-First: Stephen
Author-X-Name-Last: Gillies
Author-Name: Paul Lindsay
Author-X-Name-First: Paul
Author-X-Name-Last: Lindsay
Title: Critical essay: sociotechnical construction
Abstract:
The Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Programme is the UK’s largest ever. The cultural value, funding model, risk profile, and fragility of the building exposes an uncomfortable truth. Construction business-as-usual has become an enterprise risk. Current levels of productivity, health, and wellbeing are not acceptable on a project of such high national importance. The Programme joins calls made in the Farmer Review, Project 13, the Construction Play Book , and now the Building Safety Bill for transformative change. It is in the unique position of being able to proactively drive this change. It is an exemplar project intended to deliver a learning legacy for the sector at large. It is also the first project to show an interest in a new approach called Sociotechnical Construction. The focus of this new approach is the joint optimization of socio/human and technical/organizational factors. The evidence points to these being instrumental in resolving the construction sector’s long-standing productivity and wellbeing paradox. This critical essay describes and defines Sociotechnical Construction, sets out the call to action, and presents the case for why it is needed now.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 251-265
Issue: 3
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2260903
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2260903
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# input file: RCME_A_2227286_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Mohd Azrai Azman
Author-X-Name-First: Mohd Azrai
Author-X-Name-Last: Azman
Author-Name: Nor Nazihah Chuweni
Author-X-Name-First: Nor Nazihah
Author-X-Name-Last: Chuweni
Author-Name: Faridah Muhamad Halil
Author-X-Name-First: Faridah
Author-X-Name-Last: Muhamad Halil
Author-Name: Ku Mohammad Asyraf Ku Azir
Author-X-Name-First: Ku Mohammad Asyraf
Author-X-Name-Last: Ku Azir
Author-Name: Boon L. Lee
Author-X-Name-First: Boon L.
Author-X-Name-Last: Lee
Author-Name: Farah Nazira Juhari
Author-X-Name-First: Farah Nazira
Author-X-Name-Last: Juhari
Author-Name: Martin Skitmore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Skitmore
Title: The impact of the change in institutional regulation on construction productivity: firm-level evidence in a developing economy
Abstract:
For many, the business environment is regarded as the main factor determining changes in construction productivity. However, changes in a country’s institutional regulation can contribute to the productivity changes of construction firms over the long term but are often overlooked in construction productivity research. To study the impact of institutional regulation on construction productivity, a sample of 55 public-listed construction Malaysian firms (2009–2020) is used as a case study to estimate total factor productivity (TFP) based on the Geometric-Young Index (GYI). Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA) is then used to decompose the TFP-GYI into the technological, environment, technical, scale-mix, and statistical noise components. This is followed by the Generalized Method Moments (GMM) to model the impact of different institutional regulations on TFP and decomposed productivity components. The results indicate that the institutional regulation framework influences construction firms’ TFP. Property rights and the rule of law (PRRL), and budget balance and change in wages (BBCW) have a positive impact on TFP, which largely influences technical efficiency. In addition to uncovering the impact of institutional regulation on construction productivity, namely capital availability and regulatory environment, it is concluded that institutional regulation plays a vital role in determining long-term construction firm productivity and needs to be considered by policymakers in formulating supporting incentives and policies.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 199-214
Issue: 3
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2227286
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2227286
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# input file: RCME_A_2242512_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Viet-Ngu Hoang
Author-X-Name-First: Viet-Ngu
Author-X-Name-Last: Hoang
Author-Name: Connie Susilawati
Author-X-Name-First: Connie
Author-X-Name-Last: Susilawati
Author-Name: Joko Purnomo Raharjo
Author-X-Name-First: Joko Purnomo
Author-X-Name-Last: Raharjo
Title: Analysis of productivity performance of real estate and construction firms in Indonesia
Abstract:
Sustained total factor productivity (TFP) growth of firms is essential to achieve sustained supply growth, which is necessary to solve the housing shortage and affordability problems. Existing productivity literature focuses on large firms whilst smaller firms make a significant contribution to the total supply. This paper investigates the productivity of 363 Indonesian real estate construction firms of medium and large sizes. We estimate Färe-Primont TFP measures under the meta-frontier framework, accounting for differences in the overall technologies under which each group of firms operates. Results deliver several important findings. First, large firms have higher productivity levels than medium firms, but average productivity levels are very low. Second, the productivity growth of large and medium firms is negative, which contributes to the growth of the housing shortage in Indonesia from 2012 to 2016. Third, in case of easier transfer or spill-over of production technologies between two firm groups, firms could enhance further their efficiency and productivity. Fourth, those factors related to branch numbers, legal structure and experience of doing business have positive correlations with the productivity performance of firms in both large and medium groups. Additionally, medium firms could gain higher productivity by diversifying their income. Importantly, our study shows evidence to support that government subsidies have a positive influence on the productivity level of medium firms.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 215-228
Issue: 3
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2242512
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2242512
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# input file: RCME_A_2260906_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Sulafa Badi
Author-X-Name-First: Sulafa
Author-X-Name-Last: Badi
Title: The role of blockchain in enabling inter-organisational supply chain alignment for value co-creation in the construction industry
Abstract:
In the construction industry context, misalignments in the supply chain pose significant challenges, hindering successful project delivery. To address these issues, blockchain technology emerges as a promising IT-based solution for achieving supply chain alignment. A conceptual model is developed based on the service-dominant logic theory that explores the impact of blockchain on supply chain alignment and co-created value outcomes within the Business-to-Business (B2B) construction context. Through a questionnaire-based approach, data were collected from 324 respondents in the global construction industry, which was then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings demonstrate the positive impact of implementing blockchain technology on competency, behavioural, process, and expectations alignment among supply chain partners. These improvements in alignment collectively contribute to the realization of supply chain value outcomes. These results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach combining technology with alignment efforts to realize blockchain-enabled value co-creation in construction supply chain management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 266-288
Issue: 3
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 3
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2260906
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2260906
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# input file: RCME_A_2181367_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Susanna Hedborg
Author-X-Name-First: Susanna
Author-X-Name-Last: Hedborg
Author-Name: Lilly Rosander
Author-X-Name-First: Lilly
Author-X-Name-Last: Rosander
Title: Self-organizing in urban development: developers coordinating between construction projects
Abstract:
Sustainable urban development districts have become an answer to the challenge of increasing urbanization while decreasing human impact on the environment. Like other domains of public administration, urban development has in recent decades moved towards heterogeneous governance. Urban development becomes project ecologies, where several construction projects are carried out in parallel and in sequence. This paper sheds light on public and private developers’ coordinating between their construction projects and the influence this has on the built environment of urban development districts. The space between projects in project ecologies is relevant to explore further to understand how the long-term goals of urban policy are achieved in practice. Through the theoretical lens of self-organizing, the discussion is informed by a qualitative study of two cases where developers built together in sustainable profiled urban development districts. The paper contributes to construction management research by illustrating how developers play a key role in finalizing the design and construction of new districts through self-organizing. In effect, new urban districts can only be realized through joint efforts and coordination amongst developers. The paper also provides policymakers with insights into how developers become key players in organizing new neighborhoods.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 114-128
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2181367
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2181367
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# input file: RCME_A_2306213_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Craig S. Thomson
Author-X-Name-First: Craig S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Thomson
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Andrew Karvonen
Author-X-Name-First: Andrew
Author-X-Name-Last: Karvonen
Title: Expanding the field: combining construction management and urban studies to address grand societal challenges
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 109-113
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2024.2306213
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2024.2306213
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# input file: RCME_A_2232893_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Tina Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-X-Name-First: Tina
Author-X-Name-Last: Karrbom Gustavsson
Author-Name: Anette Hallin
Author-X-Name-First: Anette
Author-X-Name-Last: Hallin
Author-Name: Peter Dobers
Author-X-Name-First: Peter
Author-X-Name-Last: Dobers
Title: Stakeholder involvement in distributed projects: a performative approach to large scale urban sustainable development projects and the case of Stockholm Royal Seaport
Abstract:
The involvement of stakeholders in large scale urban sustainable development projects (LSUSDP.s) has proven difficult. The stakeholders are distributed across the geographical area, and they have stakes not only in the LSUSDP, but in the geographical location where the project takes place. To understand stakeholder management in “distributed projects”, we propose abandoning the “inside-out” perspective where the project is the point of departure, and focus on the emergence of stakeholders across time. Adopting such a performative, “outside-in,” perspective on the longitudinal and digital study of a LSUSDP, we are able to map how actors became stakeholders in the project through their actions. The paper makes four contributions. First, we reconceptualize stakeholder involvement by adopting a performative perspective, whereby “stakeholders” are envisaged as emergent and non-fixed. Second, we demonstrate how such a reconceptualization may be applied to the analysis of an empirical case. Third, we show that stakeholder involvement is not merely the result of stakeholder management but something that happens over time, through the material and discursive actions of those that become stakeholders. Finally, the paper contributes with an illustration of how the online, digital footprint, of a project may be useful to understand the emergence of a project.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 146-161
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2232893
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2232893
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# input file: RCME_A_2222190_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Robert J Rogerson
Author-X-Name-First: Robert J
Author-X-Name-Last: Rogerson
Author-Name: Bob Giddings
Author-X-Name-First: Bob
Author-X-Name-Last: Giddings
Author-Name: Marcus Jefferies
Author-X-Name-First: Marcus
Author-X-Name-Last: Jefferies
Title: Constructing the future of the city centre: realizing visions
Abstract:
As cities are being asked to transition to a new future shaped by significant social, economic and environmental challenges, renewed attention is being given to the urban development process, and on how this process has to be more inclusive, and the outcomes more coherent. With past notions of masterplans as a single, fixed visionary document being replaced with guiding strategies, open to interpretation, there is a greater need for different disciplines to engage together throughout the development process. This paper explores opportunities and needs for construction management to be more actively involved in the reshaping of the city centre, from the envisioning of its future to the realization of change. Through the lens of the process of change in four city centres across the world, this paper outlines how discussing construction management could beneficially engage with other urban disciplines to create a shared vision for centres as part of local governance. It argues for construction management adopt a wider spatial and temporal perspective that looks beyond specific buildings, site and projects to situate development in the urban and regional systems and to help be part of the envisioning process. Along with more critical engagement in the policy, design and construction processes for construction management, the paper points to a need for more local sensitivity and adaptation including an appreciation of the contribution of public spaces and a different approach to urban development if the city centre is to be more sustainable in future.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 129-145
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2222190
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2222190
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# input file: RCME_A_2264969_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Lizet Kuitert
Author-X-Name-First: Lizet
Author-X-Name-Last: Kuitert
Author-Name: Jannes Willems
Author-X-Name-First: Jannes
Author-X-Name-Last: Willems
Author-Name: Leentje Volker
Author-X-Name-First: Leentje
Author-X-Name-Last: Volker
Title: Value integration in multi-functional urban projects: a value driven perspective on sustainability transitions
Abstract:
Sustainable urban development requires the integration of diverse values to achieve multi-functional goals. Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) projects can be considered as pioneers in value integration. By combining bureaucratic innovations (BI) and social innovations (SI) these BGI projects are able to reach a more holistic development that is characterised as a value-driven approach for sustainability transitions. In this study on BGI projects, we aim to learn how to deliver multi-functional projects through different interpretation of four factors, i.e. professional culture, governance level, geographical space, and time conception, in various constellations of BI and SI. Results of our cross-case study of four BGI projects in three European countries (the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden) indicate that project with higher degrees of value integration balance BI and SI in following four ways: (i) heterogeneity in professions in value-decision-making, (ii) multi-level governance embedded in institutional frameworks, (iii) connecting city-wide and neighbourhood levels by boundary spanners, and (iv) having a dynamic time conception. Our findings imply that social innovation experiences on projects has to fit into the bureaucratic environment to achieve true value integration.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 182-198
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2264969
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2264969
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# input file: RCME_A_2247496_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Olli Vigren
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Vigren
Title: Ecosystems in construction management and urban development: a comprehensive review of conceptualizations and contributions
Abstract:
To solve grand challenges, the collaboration between construction management and urban development professionals is essential. This article proposes that ecosystem conceptualizations can enhance our understanding of collaboration, but how these concepts contribute to this field is unclear. Therefore, a literature review is presented on how ecosystem concepts are operationalized in construction management and urban development research. The article classifies conceptualizations into seven categories and analyzes their potential for contributions to ecosystem theorizing. An ecosystem research agenda is developed, arguing that it can serve as a theoretical bridge between these disciplines. The article also highlights how research on ecosystems in the built environment sector can contribute to management and organization research fields more broadly. Notably, conceptualizations of ecosystems as project-based or location-based are valuable contributions to ecosystem research.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 162-181
Issue: 2
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 2
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2247496
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2247496
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# input file: RCME_A_2266760_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Roope Nyqvist
Author-X-Name-First: Roope
Author-X-Name-Last: Nyqvist
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Title: Uncertainty network modeling method for construction risk management
Abstract:
In recent decades, uncertainty management has increasingly elicited attention in construction management research due to increasing project complexity. However, existing management methods have not been able to solve the issues around risk and uncertainty, and regardless of the proposed network-based risk modeling approaches, there are insufficiencies in contemporary methods, such as their practical applicability. This study examined the current state and issues of uncertainty and risk management and proposed a novel uncertainty network model (UNM) as a solution. The uncertainty network model was designed and validated using design science methodology (DSM), drawing on literature and empirical data from interviews, questionnaires, case observations, and case testing. The UNM visually presents project risks, uncertainties, and their interconnections and criticality transforming project stakeholders’ tacit knowledge into an explicit, systematic representation of a project’s uncertainty and risk architecture. Applied to a real-world construction project, the model received positive feedback, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing practitioners’ understanding of networked risks and the potential to guide cost-effective risk-control activities by applying a systemic lens to project management. This practical validation showcases the model’s potential in addressing the shortcomings of existing methods and improving construction project risk management.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 346-365
Issue: 4
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2266760
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2266760
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:4:p:346-365
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# input file: RCME_A_2262622_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Douglas Comassetto Hamerski
Author-X-Name-First: Douglas Comassetto
Author-X-Name-Last: Hamerski
Author-Name: Tarcisio Abreu Saurin
Author-X-Name-First: Tarcisio Abreu
Author-X-Name-Last: Saurin
Author-Name: Carlos Torres Formoso
Author-X-Name-First: Carlos Torres
Author-X-Name-Last: Formoso
Author-Name: Eduardo Luis Isatto
Author-X-Name-First: Eduardo Luis
Author-X-Name-Last: Isatto
Title: The contributions of the Last Planner System to resilient performance in construction projects
Abstract:
Although the Last Planner System (LPS) has been successfully used in complex construction projects, previous studies have not investigated how it supports resilient performance (RP), which is crucial for the construction industry. To address this gap, a case study of using the LPS in refurbishment building projects was conducted. The implementation of LPS was analysed in light of seven principles for the design of resilient systems. Sources of data for this analysis involved documents, semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and secondary data. The results pointed out 25 production planning and control practices that contributed to RP, including well-established LPS practices, formalised in the planning standards of the company (32% of the total); formal practices not usually considered as elements of LPS (20%); and informal practices not anticipated by company standards (48%). These findings indicate that although LPS contributes to RP, it must be complemented by other practices, either formal or informal. A set of well-established practices (e.g. hierarchical planning, identification and removal of constraints, collaborative meetings, and use of lagging and leading indicators) are those most logically connected to the principles of design for RP. This study also offers insights into some LPS limitations (e.g. low control frequency and overemphasis on production in relation to other functional dimensions), which indicate opportunities for the development of new production planning and control approaches supportive of RP.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 328-345
Issue: 4
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2262622
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2262622
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:4:p:328-345
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# input file: RCME_A_2260909_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Kate V Morland
Author-X-Name-First: Kate V
Author-X-Name-Last: Morland
Author-Name: Dermot Breslin
Author-X-Name-First: Dermot
Author-X-Name-Last: Breslin
Title: Resolving learning paradoxes within a UK new-build housebuilder
Abstract:
The build quality of new UK homes is negatively affected by poor quality management practices during the construction process. By implementing stringent quality management (QM) standards, housebuilders can improve build quality but implementing these organization-wide changes relies on housebuilder staff, designers and sub-contractors learning new working practices. This paper explores the tensions which emerge within housebuilders, as they implement new QM procedures. A longitudinal qualitative case study was conducted, where time was spent with housebuilder staff in three regional offices, two years apart. Methods include participant observation, semi-structured interviews and a review of organizational documentation. The findings highlight several learning paradoxes which arise at different stages of the housebuilding process and show how actors manage (or cope with) these paradoxes through their daily practices. This includes processes of simplifying and applying, improvising and problem-solving and aggregating and analyzing. Whilst these either-or approaches enable staff to resolve the immediate tensions that arise from different organizational processes, they often fail to meet longer-term learning objectives, detrimentally affecting build quality over time. Without structural changes to the way volume housebuilders annually report to both the UK Government and their shareholders, organizations in the UK housebuilding sector face challenges in reconciling different learning processes.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 307-327
Issue: 4
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2260909
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2260909
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# input file: RCME_A_2260907_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Paul J. Hickey
Author-X-Name-First: Paul J.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hickey
Author-Name: Qingbin Cui
Author-X-Name-First: Qingbin
Author-X-Name-Last: Cui
Title: Tracing the career trajectories of architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) women leaders
Abstract:
This study delves into the professional trajectories of 20 women leaders Vice President (VP) and above in the U.S. Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector. These accomplished women, carefully selected from Engineering News Record’s (ENR's) Top 400 firms, shared their personal stories, discussing both triumphs and challenges influencing their journey to senior corporate positions. This collection of experiences provides valuable insights to identify the root causes of women’s underrepresentation in the industry. Moreover, this investigation aims to create a career roadmap that supports early and mid-career women in their pursuit of success within AEC. Success factors contributing to these women’s rise include a supportive partner, receiving early mentoring and possessing a genuine passion for their projects. Companies seeking to stand out and benefit from innovative outcomes that diversity offers should consider implementing diversity programs and fostering the growth of women throughout their careers. This may involve actively recruiting young women and providing funding for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs and scholarships for pre-college girls. Identified initiatives hold the potential to increase the number of women entering the industry and reduce the rate of early departures, thus helping to close the workforce shortage gap in the construction sector.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 289-306
Issue: 4
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2260907
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2260907
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# input file: RCME_A_2267137_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Samuel Frimpong
Author-X-Name-First: Samuel
Author-X-Name-Last: Frimpong
Author-Name: Riza Yosia Sunindijo
Author-X-Name-First: Riza Yosia
Author-X-Name-Last: Sunindijo
Author-Name: Cynthia Changxin Wang
Author-X-Name-First: Cynthia Changxin
Author-X-Name-Last: Wang
Author-Name: Elijah Frimpong Boadu
Author-X-Name-First: Elijah Frimpong
Author-X-Name-Last: Boadu
Author-Name: Ayirebi Dansoh
Author-X-Name-First: Ayirebi
Author-X-Name-Last: Dansoh
Author-Name: Carol K. H. Hon
Author-X-Name-First: Carol K. H.
Author-X-Name-Last: Hon
Author-Name: Tak Wing Yiu
Author-X-Name-First: Tak Wing
Author-X-Name-Last: Yiu
Title: Promoting positive mental health among young construction workers: the role of theory
Abstract:
The post-modern approach to improving young peoples’ mental health emphasizes the need to promote positive mental health. However, research on young construction workers’ mental health has focused mainly on negative mental health, e.g. depression, suicidal ideation, and anxiety, and given far less attention to positive mental health. The aim of this research was to identify the reason for this trend and to propose an agenda for change. Based on the initial assumption that theory-use has contributed to this trend, we utilized the PICO and PRISMA-ScR frameworks to critically review the theoretical and conceptual models in published research on young construction workers’ mental health. Out of 367 articles retrieved, fourteen studies published between 2010 and 2023 qualified for inclusion. Eighteen different theories and frameworks were identified. Generally, studies focused on measuring the prevalence of symptoms of negative mental health. Theories and conceptual frameworks were mostly used to guide the identification of variables associated with negative mental health (e.g. age, workplace stressors, autonomy, etc.) and to explain the relationships among them. The identified theories and conceptual frameworks did not offer a positive conceptualisation of mental health, and as a result, no study theorized positive mental health. We offer a matrix for evaluating theory-use in research. We also identify and discuss the strengths and limitations of the current use of theory in published studies and provide recommendations on how theory-use can be improved to reorient construction research towards the promotion of positive mental health.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 366-385
Issue: 4
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 4
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2267137
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2267137
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# input file: RCME_A_2327066_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Federico Dell’Anna
Author-X-Name-First: Federico
Author-X-Name-Last: Dell’Anna
Author-Name: Mauro Berta
Author-X-Name-First: Mauro
Author-X-Name-Last: Berta
Author-Name: Marta Bottero
Author-X-Name-First: Marta
Author-X-Name-Last: Bottero
Author-Name: Gloria Mallia
Author-X-Name-First: Gloria
Author-X-Name-Last: Mallia
Author-Name: Vito Morgese
Author-X-Name-First: Vito
Author-X-Name-Last: Morgese
Title: Multicriteria-decision support for master plan scheduling: urban regeneration of an industrial area in Northern Italy
Abstract:
Urban regeneration programs involve a series of intricate activities that utilize human, material, and financial resources, executed at varying times and in diverse manners. Within this complex scenario, a major challenge lies in effectively managing concurrent developments across multiple buildings and infrastructure projects, while also harmonizing the interests of all parties engaged in urban regeneration initiatives. This paper introduces a multi-step strategy designed to enhance and streamline urban management amid the multifaceted decision-making processes characteristic of urban regeneration efforts. Specifically, the multi-criteria decision-making model ELECTRE TRI-B is employed to sort the array of basic tasks within a complex transformation endeavor into priority groups based on various evaluative criteria. To ascertain the significance of these criteria and rank each task according to the interests of the stakeholders likely to be impacted, a panel of specialists, including construction experts, economists, and environmental assessors, is convened. Following this, project actions are organized in a Gantt chart reflecting the construction priority determined by the evaluation model. This approach facilitated the temporal organization of master plan activities, incorporating insights from a broad spectrum of experts including municipal technical staff, professionals, and the community at large. The findings indicate that this comprehensive and interactive approach to performance measurement enabled the handling of extensive datasets and the refinement of financial, economic, environmental, and social resources, all while adhering to logical constraints and urban policy demands.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 476-501
Issue: 5
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2024.2327066
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2024.2327066
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:5:p:476-501
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# input file: RCME_A_2270080_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Christopher Görsch
Author-X-Name-First: Christopher
Author-X-Name-Last: Görsch
Author-Name: Olli Seppänen
Author-X-Name-First: Olli
Author-X-Name-Last: Seppänen
Author-Name: Antti Peltokorpi
Author-X-Name-First: Antti
Author-X-Name-Last: Peltokorpi
Author-Name: Rita Lavikka
Author-X-Name-First: Rita
Author-X-Name-Last: Lavikka
Title: Task planning and control in construction: revealing workers as early and late planners
Abstract:
Production planning and control are critical to project success. They are conventionally understood as linking planning and production by coordinating tasks prior to installation work. However, research has highlighted workers as autonomous and decentralized planners of installation work, which challenges conventional management perspectives. Performing task-level planning and control requires resources and effort, reducing the time spent on installation work. This study explores workers’ planning practices by examining the use of higher-level plans and other information sources and by analyzing workers’ information needs and the factors determining them. A survey of Finnish construction workers was conducted. The results show that some workers prefer planning tasks before arriving at the construction site, while others prefer planning tasks during on-site work preparation. Trade- and crew-specific factors influence planning earlier or later and determine the extent to which centralized and decentralized sources and practices are used. Decentralized sources and practices are most often used to meet workers’ information needs, although centralized sources and practices are also used. These findings may help construction stakeholders better understand the information sources and practices used by workers. Thus, task planning and control activities can better meet workers’ information needs, allowing for more time for installation work.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 431-450
Issue: 5
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2270080
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2270080
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:5:p:431-450
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# input file: RCME_A_2267140_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Jemma Bridgeman
Author-X-Name-First: Jemma
Author-X-Name-Last: Bridgeman
Author-Name: Martin Loosemore
Author-X-Name-First: Martin
Author-X-Name-Last: Loosemore
Title: Evaluating social procurement: a theoretically informed and methodologically robust social return on investment (SROI) analysis of a construction training initiative developed to reduce the risk of youth homelessness in Wales
Abstract:
Despite widespread claims about the benefits of social procurement, there is little robust evidence that emerging social procurement policies are achieving their intended outcomes. Addressing this gap in research, this paper presents a case study of a theoretically informed and methodologically robust evaluative social return on investment (SROI) analysis of a construction training initiative developed in Wales to reduce the risk of youth homelessness. Utilising Sen and Nussbaum's Capability Empowerment Approach, the results contribute to social procurement research by providing much needed empirical legitimacy to an under theorised field. Ensuring that new social procurement initiatives developed by the construction industry are theoretically and empirically sound is critical to ensure they are transparent, robust, testable, reliable and replicable in achieving the social outcomes they purport to deliver.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 387-411
Issue: 5
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2267140
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2267140
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:5:p:387-411
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# input file: RCME_A_2269434_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Yazan Alzoubi
Author-X-Name-First: Yazan
Author-X-Name-Last: Alzoubi
Author-Name: Giorgio Locatelli
Author-X-Name-First: Giorgio
Author-X-Name-Last: Locatelli
Author-Name: Tristano Sainati
Author-X-Name-First: Tristano
Author-X-Name-Last: Sainati
Title: The ugly side of construction: modern slavery in the 2022 FIFA World Cup program
Abstract:
Modern slavery is an illegal and unethical practice that is widespread across several sectors, including construction. This article investigates the mechanisms and motivations for employing modern slaves in construction projects and the role of “political will” in fighting it. To this end, using a cross-sectional single case study, the article examines the case of Qatar’s construction of the infrastructure for the 2022 FIFA World Cup—a large construction program in which modern slavery has been extensively documented. Our theoretical lens is the Fraud Triangle Theory (opportunity, pressure, and rationalization), which is rarely used in construction management but is useful for investigating illegal or unethical phenomena. The findings document the various factors contributing to modern slavery, including the kafala system, confiscated passports, debt bondage, contract substitution, salary abuse, program time constraints, cash flow shortage, and weak internal control systems. This article’s key novel theoretical contributions relate to identifying why modern slavery occurs in construction projects using the Fraud Triangle Theory and highlighting the importance of “political will” in fighting modern slavery worldwide.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 412-430
Issue: 5
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2269434
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2269434
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Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:5:p:412-430
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# input file: RCME_A_2277925_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Yuqing Hu
Author-X-Name-First: Yuqing
Author-X-Name-Last: Hu
Author-Name: Carrie S. Dossick
Author-X-Name-First: Carrie S.
Author-X-Name-Last: Dossick
Title: Decoding the dynamics of BIM use practice in construction projects
Abstract:
Over the past two decades, thought leaders positioned Building Information Modeling (BIM) as a driver to change the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. However, instances of unexpected BIM use have surfaced, with projects often shifting from BIM to hybrid or even solely 2D practices midway. What technology use conditions cause these practice-based rejections of BIM use and how these happen have not been fully explored and make BIM cannot fully play its role in a project. To fill this gap, we use structuration theory as a theoretical lens to analyze the interactions between BIM and project teams and explore how three technology use conditions, (interpretive, technological, and institutional), impact the interactions, which finally shape technology use practices. Specifically, a case study method has been selected. The research team attended a project for two years, collected meeting observations, and conducted surveys and interviews to track the emergent and situated BIM use practice in an integrated project setting with technology use conditions that changed over the course of the project. We analyzed how the three technology use conditions impacted the interactions between BIM and project teams in different ways and how these impacted change in different project phases. We conclude that the sustained use of BIM requires the alignment of project organizations with BIM features and alignment with both top-down and bottom-up investment in practice change, which includes motivation for senior management investment in a sustained project team, in individual capability training, and in early planning.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 451-475
Issue: 5
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 5
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2277925
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2277925
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# input file: RCME_A_2279743_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Rebecka Lundgren
Author-X-Name-First: Rebecka
Author-X-Name-Last: Lundgren
Author-Name: Riikka Kyrö
Author-X-Name-First: Riikka
Author-X-Name-Last: Kyrö
Author-Name: Stefan Olander
Author-X-Name-First: Stefan
Author-X-Name-Last: Olander
Title: The lifecycle impact and value capture of circular business models in the built environment
Abstract:
Circular economy (CE) has been of utmost interest in the industry and research community in the preceding years. However, CE is still a nascent research field in the built environment context. As technological advances within CE are slowing, the incorporation of business models into the concept is deemed important to achieve the necessary transition. Circular business models within the built environment should take a holistic perspective and a lifecycle optimization approach. The research aim is twofold, firstly, we aim to contribute to the assessment of impacts of CE business models. Secondly, we aim to establish how real estate development organizations can optimize value capture from adaptive reuse projects. We engage in an in-depth mixed methods case study assessing and comparing two adaptation scopes of a former textile factory to offices. The minor scope includes basic measures to bring the building up to standard, whilst the major scope includes the same, with the addition of space efficiency measures, extended building services, onsite energy production and various circular activities. We find that the major scope consequently captures more of the identified value propositions of the organization than the minor scope. We conclude that more circular activities do not necessarily lead to better environmental performance, however, may lead to higher profit and social gain. The study contributes to existing knowledge of impact assessments, and highlights the complexity of balancing environmental, social and economic impact in the built environment context. The assessment framework may be used by real estate developers prior to investments decisions.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 527-544
Issue: 6
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2279743
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2279743
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# input file: RCME_A_2291082_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Hassan F. Gholipour
Author-X-Name-First: Hassan F.
Author-X-Name-Last: Gholipour
Author-Name: Mohammad Reza Farzanegan
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammad Reza
Author-X-Name-Last: Farzanegan
Author-Name: Mohammed N. Abu Al-Foul
Author-X-Name-First: Mohammed N.
Author-X-Name-Last: Abu Al-Foul
Title: House prices and labour productivity growth: Evidence from OECD countries
Abstract:
This study examines the association between real house prices and labour productivity growth in 24 OECD countries over the period 1972–2019. By applying the panel fixed effects and Pooled Mean Group-Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PMG-ARDL) estimators, the results show that labour productivity growth is negatively and significantly associated with real house prices. This finding provides empirical support for the ongoing discussion on the adverse impact of excessive housing market activities on productivity.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 582-589
Issue: 6
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2291082
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2291082
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# input file: RCME_A_2279195_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Bismark Duodu
Author-X-Name-First: Bismark
Author-X-Name-Last: Duodu
Author-Name: Damithri Gayashini Melagoda
Author-X-Name-First: Damithri Gayashini
Author-X-Name-Last: Melagoda
Author-Name: Steve Rowlinson
Author-X-Name-First: Steve
Author-X-Name-Last: Rowlinson
Title: Innovation ambidexterity in construction firms: external knowledge antecedents and performance consequences
Abstract:
Empirical evidence on the external knowledge search behaviour of construction firms and its effects on innovation ambidexterity (IA) and performance is limited. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of external knowledge sources on IA and the mediating role of IA in the relationship between external knowledge sources and financial performance (FP) in construction firms. It tests the hypotheses developed using survey responses from management personnel in Hong Kong construction firms. The results indicate that knowledge from clients or suppliers has a significant effect on IA. Similarly, knowledge sourced from universities and research institutions has a significant positive impact on IA. However, only knowledge from clients directly affects FP. IA fully mediates the relationships between knowledge from clients, suppliers or universities and research institutions with FP but not the other three sources. While partly validating some existing studies, these findings also extend the current knowledge on the connection between external knowledge sources and IA. This shows how IA can translate external knowledge into financial outcomes, revealing the value of different knowledge sources for firms. The findings provide insights into how construction firms can direct their knowledge searches to enhance ambidexterity and financial outcomes. This study showed the importance of external collaborators for construction firms in achieving IA and FP. It contributes to the theory and practice on the antecedents and outcomes of IA in construction firms and the path-dependent processes to enhance FP through the use of external knowledge to simultaneously pursue exploratory and exploitative innovation.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 503-526
Issue: 6
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2279195
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2279195
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# input file: RCME_A_2287475_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Regis Signor
Author-X-Name-First: Regis
Author-X-Name-Last: Signor
Author-Name: Peter E. D. Love
Author-X-Name-First: Peter E. D.
Author-X-Name-Last: Love
Author-Name: Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez
Author-X-Name-First: Pablo
Author-X-Name-Last: Ballesteros-Pérez
Title: Detecting bid rigging in public auctions for procuring infrastructure projects: formulating the reference scenario for decision-making
Abstract:
Bid rigging is a fraudulent scheme in procurement auctions resulting in non-competitive bids awarded at prices above the competitive market. Bid rigging is a global problem that wastes public agencies’ resources and taxpayers’ money. While various methods and tools have been developed to detect bid rigging, it remains challenging for public agencies to identify what a competitive baseline auction looks like in the absence of collusion. Such a baseline is commonly known as a reference scenario, which involves analyzing the behavior of honest bids in previous auctions to determine if future bids could be collusive. Research on formulating reliable reference scenarios for bid rigging detection in the auctions of infrastructure projects has received limited attention. Hence, our paper analyses the key criteria required to develop a reference scenario for public agencies to detect bid rigging during an auction. Drawing on data from Brazilian public procurement and oversight agencies, a procedure for composing robust reference scenarios for detecting bid rigging in infrastructure first-priced auctions is presented and discussed. We then test our procedure’s generalizability using data from four countries (Australia, Brazil, Spain, and the United States) in two auction formats (i.e., capped and uncapped). A better understanding of the reference scenario formulation will allow public officials to increase the likelihood of detecting bid rigging when it exists and avoid flagging it as such when no collusive practices are involved.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 545-563
Issue: 6
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2287475
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2287475
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:6:p:545-563
Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0
# input file: RCME_A_2289040_J.xml processed with: repec_from_jats12.xsl darts-xml-transformations-20240209T083504 git hash: db97ba8e3a
Author-Name: Bryan W. Franz
Author-X-Name-First: Bryan W.
Author-X-Name-Last: Franz
Author-Name: Joseph Olopade
Author-X-Name-First: Joseph
Author-X-Name-Last: Olopade
Title: Exploring pathways to project success through project delivery team integration: a qualitative comparative analysis
Abstract:
Integration within project delivery teams can improve project outcomes in the building construction industry. However, integration across multiple firms and disciplines can be more challenging to manage, when compared to functionally organized, or siloed, teams. Given that resources to manage integration are limited and that most teams are only partially integrated in practice, this research seeks to explore pathways for their success. Using data collected from ten completed projects in the U.S., a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis was performed to identify which combinations of six dimensions of integration were sufficient for improved project performance. The analysis revealed six distinct and highly consistent pathways to success, as evaluated by the criteria of being on-budget, on-time, or achieving the planned sustainable certification. Across all pathways, having a single team focus and equitable team relationships were the only dimensions consistently found in pathways leading to desirable project outcomes. Other dimensions, such as co-location, seamless operation across organizational boundaries, and a no-blame culture were found in pathways to both desirable and undesirable project outcomes, depending on their combination with other dimensions. These results contribute to theories on implementing team integration, suggesting that fully integrated teams are not always necessary for success. Instead, integrated teams that can work collaboratively, while still maintaining organizational separation or autonomy, can be as effective. While the study does not enable the identification of all possible pathways to success, it provides guidance to practitioners by highlighting a small subset of pathways, giving greater flexibility in managing integration within their teams.
Journal: Construction Management and Economics
Pages: 564-581
Issue: 6
Volume: 42
Year: 2024
Month: 6
X-DOI: 10.1080/01446193.2023.2289040
File-URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1080/01446193.2023.2289040
File-Format: text/html
File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to subscribers.
Handle: RePEc:taf:conmgt:v:42:y:2024:i:6:p:564-581