Fani Antoniou

Bio: Fani Antoniou is an academic researcher from International Hellenic University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Cost estimate & Construction management. The author has an hindex of 7, co-authored 20 publications receiving 107 citations. Previous affiliations of Fani Antoniou include Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.

A multi-criteria decision-making support system for choice of method of compensation for highway construction contractors in Greece

Abstract: The choice of method of contractor compensation is a complex decision that should be taken by awarding authorities (AAs) based on a systematic and scientific examination of alternative options inst...

Comparative analysis of multi-criteria decision making methods in choosing contract type for highway construction in Greece

Abstract: How to compensate highway construction contractors is a complex decision that should be taken based on scientific evidence. Four different multi-criteria decision making methods, i.e., the multi-attribute utility theory, the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal situation, the preference ranking organisation method for enriched evaluation (PROMETHEE) and the PROMETHEE group decision support system method were applied to two case study projects with different characteristics and awarding authorities' (AAs') needs in order to choose between seven different contract type based on nine selection criteria. The results highlight the need to establish the availability of new CTs in the public works law in Greece and showed that all methods have the potential to become decision support systems that can be employed for improving objectivity in this decision making process as if the project characteristics and AA's needs are properly defined at the onset.

Improving public works’ value for money: a new procurement strategy

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to propose a new procurement strategy with the aim to achieve higher value for money (VFM) in public works delivery. Its main innovation lies in the possibility of optional submission of cost-efficient design variants by any interested contractor within the context of an open procedure. The final scope of works incorporates the variants approved, and all contractors are invited to submit a bid for the revised scope and budget.,This paper is a piece of applied research presenting the development of a new, cost-effective procurement strategy for public works, geared at the European Union (EU) legal framework. The strategy’s feature compilation has been based on comprehensive literature review while numerical data from a real world project were used to demonstrate its financial advantages.,The proposed strategy enables the delivery of the best value project at the lowest cost possible. This is achieved through ensuring high competition among competent contractors, improving the cost efficiency of technical solutions, discouraging future scope changes and establishing objectivity, fairness and transparency in the process of contract award.,The use of the proposed strategy results in public projects of enhanced VFM, reduced constructability issues and less scope changes during the construction stage.,The proposed strategy marks a new approach in procurement which enables the delivery of best VFM in public works. Therefore, it makes a valuable contribution towards the achievement of the overarching EU target for efficient public spending.

Application of the multi attribute utility theory for the selection of project procurement system for Greek highway projects

Abstract: The selection of the appropriate procurement system (PS) for major highway projects in Greece is central to their success, as the relevant interdependent interfaces and required contracts between stakeholders are numerous and complex. The PSs investigated are traditional, traditional fast track, design and build, private-public partnership, construction management, management contracts and partnering. The relevant selection criteria that were considered refer to the project characteristics, the needs of the awarding authority and the market conditions. A questionnaire survey was carried out in order to record the performance of each PS against each selection criterion. The survey succeeded in collecting responses from 91 international highway procurement experts. The paper then evaluated the mean ratings of each PS against each alternative selection criterion. These ratings were considered as marginal utility values for use in the multi attribute utility theory method. The weights of each selection criterion are calculated using the revised Simos method, the analytical hierarchy process and goal programming. Two pilot projects in Greece were defined as case studies, for the proposed methodology to be tested. The results showed that the public-private partnership system is frequently chosen as the most appropriate PS.

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.

Contractor selection using multicriteria utility theory: an additive model

Abstract: A systematic multicriteria decision analysis technique is described for contractor selection and bid evaluation based on utility theory and which permits different types of contractor capabilities to be evaluated A UK case study is used to illustrate the technique The theoretical basis and the advantages of the technique are also presented

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 decisionmaking (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.

Closure of "Time is Money: Innovative Contracting Methods in Highway Construction"

Abstract: In today's highway construction industry, the focus has shifted from building new transportation facilities to resurfacing, rehabilitating and restoring (3R's) those already in existence. These types of projects create a serious disruption in the normal flow of traffic resulting in a major inconvenience to the traveling public. Reducing construction time, thereby mitigating this inconvenience, has become a major emphasis for state highway agencies throughout the United States. In the past few years, several innovative contracting methods have been introduced into the highway construction industry. The basic concept of these innovative techniques is the motivation they provide encouraging the contractor to work faster, schedule accurately, and manage the construction process better. Results from the research conducted by the writers indicate that recent transportation projects constructed utilizing these innovative contracting methods have been very successful in reducing construction time, while only increasing overall construction costs minimally, if at all. This paper examines the advantages and disadvantages of these methods analyzing data obtained from various case studies throughout the United States and abroad.

Motivation toward financial incentive goals on construction projects

Abstract: Construction industry observers tout the use of financial incentives as promoters of motivation and commitment on projects. Yet, little empirical evidence exists concerning their effectiveness. What are the drivers of motivation on construction projects? The reasons that construction project participants are motivated to pursue voluntary incentive goals are examined through four Australian case studies. The results demonstrate the critical role played by project relationships and equitable contract conditions in promoting the effectiveness of financial incentives. In the context of a construction project, this study finds financial incentives to be less important to motivation and performance than relationship enhancement initiatives. This finding is unexpected and has implications for the design of project procurement strategies. These results suggest if project clients ignore the importance of relationship quality between participants, the impact of any financial incentive will be compromised.