Showing papers in "Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management in 2006"
TL;DR: Choi et al. as mentioned in this paper identified and explored pertinent conflicting factors in construction projects, which would be helpful for project planners and implementers in assessing and taking proactive measures for reducing the adverse effect of conflict.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to identify and explore pertinent conflicting factors in construction projects; which would be helpful for project planners and implementers in assessing and taking proactive measures for reducing the adverse effect of conflict.Design/methodology/approach – To achieve the study objectives, a 43‐item questionnaire survey in a five‐point Likert scale was carried out to collect professionals' experience on conflicting activities in Korean construction projects. Responses from 124 professionals working for owners, consultants and contractors were analyzed. Furthermore, ten face‐to face interviews were also carried out to ratify the findings from the field survey. Later, analytical hierarchical process method was employed to find out the importance weighting as well as responsible party for the perceived conflicts.Findings – This study has found out six critical construction conflicting factors pertinent in Korean context. These factors with importance weighting are: di...
136 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a case study of a current Australian BOOT project, the Sydney SuperDome, is presented, where the authors examine perceptions of Build-Own-Operate Transfer (BOOT) schemes in order to develop a framework of critical success factors (CSF).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine perceptions of Build‐Own‐Operate Transfer (BOOT) schemes in order to develop a framework of critical success factors (CSF).Design/methodology/approach – Success factors are identified from relevant literature and a project specific CSF framework is produced with key issues discussed. Discussion focuses on a case study of a current Australian BOOT project, the Sydney SuperDome.Findings – The SuperDome is proving to be an example of how both government and private industry is attempting to meet Australia's need for infrastructure in the new millennium. The project had a streamline finance process and project participants had an appetite for risk that exceeded the other tenderers. PPPs are now established as a worldwide means of developing public services with private sector finance and expertise.Originality/value – The SuperDome model is setting the benchmark for Australian BOOT projects, acting as the framework for future PPPs initiated by the NSW Government.
131 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors report upon research undertaken on deployment of information communication technology (ICT) diffusion initiatives in the Australian construction industry and explain how innovation implementation drivers and barriers facilitate diffusion at the organisational, group and individual levels.
Abstract: – The purpose of this paper is to report upon research undertaken on deployment of information communication technology (ICT) diffusion initiatives in the Australian construction industry. The paper seeks to explain how innovation implementation drivers and barriers facilitate diffusion at the organisational, group and individual levels., – Data from two web‐based document management case studies and one intranet document management system case study are used to analyse ICT diffusion dynamics within three large information technology (IT) literate Australian construction firms. The sample was purposefully limited to large IT‐literate construction contracting organisations with a need to use ICT for their operational effectiveness., – Constraints at the personal level include limited budget for ICT investment, commitment from other project participants, issues of ICT standardisation, and security problems. At the organisational level, constraints include basic levels computer experience, time available to learn, and the identification of clear benefits of ICT use. Constraints at the group level include time available to share information, quality of personal contact and geographical distance., – The sample was purposefully limited to large IT‐literate construction contracting organisations with a need to use ICT for their operational effectiveness., – The driver and barrier models presented indicate that ICT innovation implementation requires intense management interventions to facilitate a supportive workplace environment that strongly links personal and organisational resource investment with demonstrated outcome benefits., – This study provides rich insights of the dynamics of ICT innovation implementation. Few studies in the literature have provided such insights that link the organisational, group and individual levels.
126 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a decision support tool for long-term management of subcontractor supply chain for achieving better quality in construction is proposed, and its application is illustrated by using the information obtained from the study.
Abstract: Purpose – To provide a decision support tool for long‐term management of subcontractor supply chain for achieving better quality in construction.Design/methodology/approach – Defects on three construction projects are investigated through direct observation, document analysis, and interviews. A method to analyse and present defects information as an aid to decision making in relation to subcontractor supply chain management is proposed, and its application is illustrated by using the information obtained from the study.Findings – The importance of managing the subcontractor supply chain to reduce the incidence of defects is established. The nature and extent of the defects, along with what caused them, are discussed. Method for conversion of raw data into a decision support tool is presented.Research limitations/implications – The data collection method was limited in that it was not based on continuous full‐time observation. Such presence by independent observers for full duration of the project would pr...
105 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report on findings from a research project, commissioned by the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), to investigate the integration of health and safety with pre-construction planning.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on findings from a research project, commissioned by the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), to investigate the integration of health and safety with pre‐construction planning.Design/methodology/approach – Four steering groups and three expert panels were interviewed, using focus group methods, to define critical success factors through qualitative, grounded theory, analysis.Findings – The main outcomes from the analysis are: critical success factors rely on adopting integrated teams; and effective two‐way flow of information is essential. Also, existing design and management tools can be adapted to satisfy the factors identified as opposed to prescribed requirements for a standard health and safety plan.Originality/value – This study has informed further research including the development of a gateway process model and supporting integrated management tools. It has also informed HSE with policy decisions for their review of CDM.
89 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated the performance of construction consultants to determine those key performance attributes which have a crucial impact on client satisfaction, and from that to identify ways of improving the services provided by such consultants.
Abstract: Purpose – Client satisfaction is one of the major determinants of project success and therefore is a fundamental issue for construction participants who must constantly seek to improve their performance if they are to survive in the marketplace. However, client satisfaction has remained an elusive issue for a majority of construction professionals. This research aims to investigate the performance of construction consultants to determine those key performance attributes which have a crucial impact on client satisfaction, and from that to identify ways of improving the services provided by such consultants.Design/methodology/approach – This research presents the results of a UK‐wide client satisfaction survey based on the performance of a large engineering and management consultancy organisation whom they employed.Findings – Results indicate that key performance attributes for consultants including technical accuracy; overall quality of services and people, have been identified as the main client satisfact...
74 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors study the strategies used by construction organizations in dealing with environmental issues and identify the factors which govern a firm's performance in respect of environmental management and explore the management strategies which are used to generate good environmental performance.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to study the strategies used by construction organizations in dealing with environmental issues. It identifies the factors which govern a firm's performance in respect of environmental management and explores the management strategies which are used to generate good environmental performance. The paper also seeks to consider the techniques adopted in pursuit of these strategies and to compare their effectiveness.Design/methodology/approach – The research reviews the strategic management and environmental management and then proceeds to a case study investigation of six construction organizations. The case studies seek to uncover the variables that influence strategies for managing environmental issues. A cross‐case analysis provides an indication of the characteristics of those companies that demonstrate a higher environmental concern.Findings – As environmental strategies are developed, the competencies in managing environmental issues will grow and lead to impro...
73 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined the relationships between knowledge factors and the knowledge creation process in construction projects, paying particular attention to on-site work, using a blended methodological approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods, including six knowledge factors: vision of leadership, trust, collaboration, incentives, information technology support, and individual competencies.
Abstract: Purpose – This research is aimed at examining the relationships between knowledge factors and the knowledge creation process in construction projects, paying particular attention to on‐site work.Design/methodology/approach – The design of this research is cross‐sectional and uses a blended methodological approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods. The research model includes the following variables; six knowledge factors: vision of leadership, trust, collaboration, incentives, information technology (IT) support, and individual competencies; and four knowledge creation processes: socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization. Survey data from 70 construction projects in Thai construction firms, obtained by means of a questionnaire developed by the researcher, were collated and analyzed. As a means of testing the model, regression analysis techniques were used to analyze the data.Findings – Consistent with previous empirical evidence, three knowledge factors affected the knowl...
70 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors show that the existence of a project-based mindset within the working practices of the different players in construction alliances can constrain the process of achieving sustainable competitive advantage for alliances.
Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to prove that alliances in the construction industry can be used as vehicles to achieve sustainable competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approach – The paper first sets out a theoretical proposition through a literature review and synthesis, then details an empirical case study in the construction industry to investigate the theoretical proposition.Findings – The findings indicate the existence of the “project based mindset”, within the working practices of the different players in construction alliances. This overly narrow project focus constrains the process of achieving sustainable competitive advantage for alliances.Research limitations/implications – This research, in broad terms, provides insights on the value of long‐term orientated collaboration in construction alliances and specifically target practitioners by identifying benefits of balancing alliance tasks and activities among senior executives and project managers in an appropriate way.Originality/value – The pape...
64 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used a quantitative approach to determine the current level of construction time performance of public sector projects; and to identify variables related to project characteristics and variables associated with excusable delay that have significant effects on the construction times of civil engineering projects in Malaysia.
Abstract: Purpose – The objectives of this paper are to determine the current level of construction time performance of public sector projects; and to identify variables related to project characteristics and variables associated with excusable delay that have significant effects on the construction time performance of public sector civil engineering projects in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approach – This study adopted a quantitative approach. Original contract duration and actual contract duration of 244 projects were collected from project files to assess current level of CTP. Variables related to project characteristics and excusable delays were then regressed against time performance index using multiple regression analysis to identify variables that had significant relationships with construction time performance.Findings – The construction time performance of the public projects in Malaysia was found to be affected more by variables related to excusable delays than project characteristic variables.Research li...
63 citations
TL;DR: Wang et al. as mentioned in this paper report a preliminary study on organisational culture of five selected construction enterprises from different geographical locations in China and discuss a framework for developing effectiveness measurement criteria for Chinese construction enterprises.
Abstract: Purpose – In recent years, China is exerting effort to improve the performance effectiveness of its construction industry. This paper aims to report a preliminary study on organisational culture of five selected construction enterprises from different geographical locations in China and to discuss a framework for developing effectiveness measurement criteria for Chinese construction enterprises.Design/methodology/approach – The research approach focuses on the culture profiles of the selected enterprises which have similar size, number of employees, general reputation (in terms of quality of construction), business type (building works) and tax bracket. The measuring instrument of organisational culture is adopted from previous tested research.Findings – It is found that the hierarchy culture is dominant in four cases; Shantou in the Special Economic Zone is the exception. The Shantou enterprise has a market culture and Shantou was one of the first regions to embark on economic reform. Further analysis is...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors show that reliability analysis and its implementation will lead to an improved whole life performance of the building systems, and hence their life cycle costs (LCC).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this research is to show that reliability analysis and its implementation will lead to an improved whole life performance of the building systems, and hence their life cycle costs (LCC).Design/methodology/approach – This paper analyses reliability impacts on the whole life cycle of building systems, and reviews the up‐to‐date approaches adopted in UK construction, based on questionnaires designed to investigate the use of reliability within the industry.Findings – Approaches to reliability design and maintainability design have been introduced from the operating environment level, system structural level and component level, and a scheduled maintenance logic tree is modified based on the model developed by Pride. Different stages of the whole life cycle of building services systems, reliability‐associated factors should be considered to ensure the system's whole life performance. It is suggested that data analysis should be applied in reliability design, maintainability design, an...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors argue that instead of producing an S-curve that is based on historical projects combined, instead of classifying projects into groups and producing a standard curve for each group simply by fitting one curve into the historical data, the attempt is to produce an individual S -curve for an individual project.
Abstract: Purpose – Cash flow forecasting is an indispensable tool for construction companies, and is essential for the survival of any contractor at all stages of the work. A simple and fast technique of forecasting cash flow accurately is required, considering the short time available and the associated cost. Seeks to examine this issue.Design/methodology/approach – The paper argues that instead of producing an S‐curve that is based on historical projects combined (state‐of‐the‐art is based on classifying projects into groups and producing a standard curve for each group simply by fitting one curve into the historical data), here the attempt is to produce an individual S‐curve for an individual project. A sample of data from 50 projects was collected and 20 criteria were identified to classify these projects. Using the most influential criteria, a multiple linear regression model was created to forecast the programme of works and hence the S‐curves. A further six projects were used to validate and test the model....
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report the results of research on whether the public hearing in Thailand's infrastructure development projects can be an effective vehicle for the project's public participation and conflict resolution on projects.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to report the results of research on whether the public hearing in Thailand's infrastructure development projects can be an effective vehicle for the project's public participation and conflict resolution on projectsDesign/methodology/approach – The performance of public hearing depends on factors such as the structure of the process, participation, management, and resource required by the process A case study approach is used to assess the performance of public hearings conducted in infrastructure development projects in Thailand by examining the project stakeholders' attitude by means of questionnaire survey and interviews Evaluation by hearing participants and their level of satisfaction are interpreted to derive the effectiveness of the hearings The extent to which satisfaction effects on evaluation is also consideredFindings – It is shown that the hearings had moderate to low effectiveness primarily because the participation and management performance asp
TL;DR: The results support a hypothesis that increased project management quality may influence option values, and a simple but realistic dynamic simulation model of a project is exercised to reveal some impacts of project management on option value.
Abstract: Purpose – Construction strategies for competitive bidding and operations are used to avoid the consequences of poor schedule performance such as delay penalties. Flexible strategies in the form of options can increase project value if uncertain conditions cannot be adequately forecast before operations begin. However, project management purposefully manipulates the project performance that drives the use of options and thereby the value added by options. Therefore project management quality may influence option values. Seeks to address this question.Design/methodology/approach – This research investigates the interaction of project management and option value by operationalizing a common use of real options in construction and valuing the option with different levels of project management quality. A simple but realistic dynamic simulation model of a project is described and exercised to reveal some impacts of project management on option value.Findings – The results support a hypothesis that increased pro...
TL;DR: Organisation learning is required to establish the importance of customer value satisfaction as a prerequisite to Toolbox adoption by designers when addressing customer value expectations using problem solving.
Abstract: Purpose – To illustrate the use of a Value Adding Toolbox by construction industry designers when addressing customer value expectations using problem solving.Design/methodology/approach – Focused literature review establishes the need for construction industry design solutions to deliver customer value and a Value Adding Toolbox is proposed in response. Case studies validate Toolbox use and one illustrative example is provided. Interviews with prospective Toolbox users identify barriers to adoption and inform a recommended approach to organisational adoption.Findings – The Toolbox is found to be effective at helping construction designers to solve technical design problems with regard to customer expectations of value. However, designers are found to be initially reluctant to adopt the new tool. Organisation learning is therefore required to establish the importance of customer value satisfaction as a prerequisite to Toolbox adoption by designers.Originality/value – This paper provides a useful insight i...
TL;DR: A methodology to evaluate the capital investments in infrastructure projects managed by private operators considering uncertainties in the operation and maintenance of the infrastructure components using Monte Carlo simulation and real options analysis is presented.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology to evaluate the capital investments in infrastructure projects managed by private operators considering uncertainties in the operation and maintenance of the infrastructure components.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology described in this paper is based on two major sources of information: deterioration curves of the infrastructure systems obtained from Markov chain models and the value of flexibility obtained from a real options analysis.Findings – Using this methodology, it is possible to determine whether there is value if project managers adopt flexible strategies in determining capital investments. These strategies refer to the opportunities of postponing, deferring or canceling capital investments required to maintain the operation of the infrastructure systems.Research limitations/implications – The model utilizes Monte Carlo simulation and real options analysis to overcome the complexities associated with the solution of the ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors provide a critical analysis of court decisions on what amounts to a dispute that may be referred to adjudication under the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to provide a critical analysis of court decisions on what amounts to a dispute that may be referred to adjudication under the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996.Design/methodologyapproach – Legal research methods were followed. The first stage entailed a review of relevant literature. Reports of court decisions were then studied to identify cases involving litigation on what amounts to a dispute. A total of 26 cases, going back to 1965, were identified. Each case was then analysed to extract the applicable legal principles, particular attention being paid to clarity and consistency with not only other cases but also the policy underlying the relevant legislation.Findings – Until only recently, first instance judges adopted the one or the other of two opposing approaches to the question, thereby causing considerable litigation. The Court of Appeal has twice approved a flexible approach based on the principle that a dispute arises only after a par...
TL;DR: The paper concludes that a network‐based framework provides a solid basis for a rich description and analysis of a multi‐actor project business, as well as assisting in understanding important interpersonal relationshi...
Abstract: Purpose – Based upon previous models and the extant literature, the purpose of this paper is to present a network approach to describing and analyzing inter‐organizational relationships in project business. The framework provides a better understanding of the dynamic processes and critical interfaces in a network context, and advocates the use of the tools of agile supply‐demand networks (ASDN) and design structure matrix (DSM).Design/methodology/approach – This conceptual paper uses a network approach to understand inter‐organizational business relationships in resource management. This approach is useful for understanding relationships in project business, which usually involves a wide array of actors or stakeholders who provide resources or have an interest in project outcomes.Findings – The paper concludes that a network‐based framework provides a solid basis for a rich description and analysis of a multi‐actor project business, as well as assisting in understanding important interpersonal relationshi...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examine the implementation of a geographic information system (GIS) aimed at facilitating an aspect of the labour market planning process within the construction sector, and explore the interplay of structural, social and technical factors which, when combined, can complicate the integration of ICT systems.
Abstract: Purpose – Despite a substantial investment in construction information and communications technology (ICT) in recent years, the structure, culture and ingrained working practices of the sector are such that the industry's organisations represent problematic arenas for their successful implementation. In order to better understand the factors affecting the integration of a new ICT within the industry, this paper seeks to examine the implementation of a geographic information system (GIS) aimed at facilitating an aspect of the labour market planning process within the construction sector. The paper explores the interplay of structural, social and technical factors which, when combined, can complicate the implementation of ICT systems.Design/methodology/approach – In the case study presented, the considerable potential of the system to facilitate the implementation of a labour market initiative was affected by a range of internal and external factors. An analysis of the implementation process and the socio‐t...
TL;DR: In this paper, an efficient project management system to track and control construction activities for contractors and/or project managers is presented. But, the work package model is utilized to break down project data into activities and work tasks, and a relational database stores all of the project data.
Abstract: Purpose – The objective of this paper is to develop an efficient project management system to track and control construction activities for contractors and/or project managers.Design/methodology/approach – The work package model is utilized to break down project data into activities and work tasks. The data structure of a project is represented using the entities‐relationship methodology. A relational database stores all of the project data. The earned value method calculates the cost and schedule variances. The internet‐based platform with three‐tier client‐server architecture is chosen for system implementation.Findings – The developed project database stores all of the project data necessary to perform project control functions. The implementation of the project database management system is efficient. The developed system provides real‐time data sharing and a collaborating environment in support of project control.Originality/value – Time and cost control are essential management functions for achievi...
TL;DR: In this article, stakeholders involved in a trial of a non-privately funded public-private partnership project were invited to express their opinions on the success and pitfalls of this type of scheme.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to establish whether this type of approach is suitable for maintenance schemes from the perspective of both the public agent and the service provider. Until recently, non‐privately funded public‐private partnerships have been adopted for the maintenance of infrastructure facilities.Design/methodology/approach – In this study, stakeholders involved in a trial of a non‐privately funded public‐private partnerships project were invited to express their opinions on the success and pitfalls of this type of scheme. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with 12 management and front‐line staff of the public and private partners to capture their opinions on the project. A questionnaire survey was also conducted to uncover the views and standpoints of other stakeholders on PPP. A total of 33 respondents completed the questionnaire.Findings – The results indicate that the non‐privately funded PPP approach is more cost‐effective and efficient in the delivery of maintenance ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report the research findings on the assets structure of medium-sized building construction contracting firms in Nigeria and its implications on their operation, showing that a greater portion of the total assets is current assets (held mainly as account receivables that sometimes may not be available within one year).
Abstract: Purpose – The paper aims to report the research findings on the assets structure of medium‐sized building construction contracting firms in Nigeria and its implications on their operation.Design/methodology/approach – The survey approach was adopted for the study. Two sets of data were collected: secondary source data from audited financial statements and primary source data using a structured questionnaire administered to management personnel of contracting firms. Descriptive statistical analysis and ratio analysis were employed for data analysis.Findings – The results show that the assets structure of these firms comprise of fixed assets being less than half of the total assets, which imply that a greater portion of the total assets is current assets (held mainly as account receivables that sometimes may not be available within one year). There is generally a low investment in fixed assets from earnings over the years. The assets structure of these firms could impact on their ability to compete successf...
TL;DR: In this paper, a structured process improvement model developed for construction enterprises (SPICE) is discussed, focusing on good practice and knowledge sharing within and across organisational boundaries, and the purpose of this paper is to discuss recent developments on a structured Process Improvement Model developed for Construction enterprises, which highlights the need to implement the key processes in an integrated and holistic manner.
Abstract: Purpose - Construction firms need to improve the way in which they manage their processes. Focusing on good practice and knowledge sharing within and across organisational boundaries, the purpose of this paper is to discuss recent developments on a structured process improvement model developed for construction enterprises (SPICE). Design/methodology/approach - A multiple holistic case study approach was taken to develop and test the presented process improvement model at a firm's level. To compare and synthesise different perspectives, respondents were selected from across a vertical cross-section of the case study organisations. A combination of several research techniques employed for triangulation. Findings - Provides a set of key processes to establish an essential managerial infrastructure for achieving organisation-wide process improvement. The results highlight the need to implement the key processes in an integrated and holistic manner. Research limitations/implications - Key limitations of the presented process improvement model are closely related to the concerns raised against "process thinking." More case studies are required to confirm or refute generalisability of the findings. Practical implications - Firms need to appreciate diverse perspectives and consider norms and values of people in order to understand and improve their process capabilities in a balanced manner. Continuous diagnosis and adaptation of organisational process capability to the changing environment are required to ensure achieving sustainable competitive advantage. Originality/value - This paper contributes to the process and knowledge management/organisational learning literature. It also highlights several important issues to address wider aspects of organisational process improvement, as well as future research direction.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a design management training initiative to improve performance in a major UK civil and building design and construction company. But the authors focus on the deployment of a training initiative, critical practices and a suite of 25 tools.
Abstract: Purpose – Over recent years there has been a significant drive away from traditional procurement routes where contractors find themselves with an increasing responsibility for the control of the design – a process they have had little experience in managing. Yet this is an area of significant opportunity for those contractors who can adapt quickly and effectively to the changing construction market. However, many current processes are insufficient to manage today's demanding and fast‐moving projects. This paper aims to address this issueDesign/methodology/approach – The paper reflects on the deployment of a design management training initiative to improve performance in a major UK civil and building design and construction company. It investigates the impact of the training initiative, critical practices and a suite of 25 tools on design management performance across the company. The methodology included a structured questionnaire, design management maturity assessment, semi‐structured interviews and a ca...
TL;DR: In this article, a comparative study of British and Finnish contracting practices was conducted to determine the reason why claims are not pronounced in a standardised practice, and the remedial measures suggested include: operational manage...
Abstract: Purpose – This study was motivated by a belief that existing knowledge on management of a contractual claim in international contracting practice is different from a standardised local practice. The paper is aimed at building competence for managing contractual claims in a standardised practice.Design/methodology/approach – Comparative studies of British and Finnish contracting practices were used to determine the reason why claims are not pronounced in a standardised practice. Empirical study via direct interviews and questionnaires of a Finnish‐based contractor operating in the Russian markets was used. The players are three‐dimensional in nature where the client, consultants, and contractor come from different countries/practices and two of the projects studied were joint ventures.Findings – The findings show the effects of: legal system, procurement methods, standardised practice and size of the market on the management of contractual claims. The remedial measures suggested include: operational manage...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a method for measuring consumer-perceived tolerances concerning the appearance of unitised construction finishes (e.g. tiling, brickwork, paving, jointed facades).
Abstract: Purpose – To develop a method for measuring consumer‐perceived tolerances concerning the appearance of unitised construction finishes (e.g. tiling, brickwork, paving, jointed facades).Design/methodology/approach – Consumer perceptions were converted into physical tolerances by drawing on an area of the behavioural sciences known as psychophysics. In particular, Weber's Law was used, which applies a formulaic approach to creating perception‐based constants. A trial of this approach was undertaken on floor tiling in 50 residential properties. Tiling was chosen because it was considered representative of situations where the appearance of the finished work was important to consumer perceptions. In particular, consistency of tile joint width was measured, which had the advantage of tapping into tiles laid askew, in poor alignment or affected by variable tile sizes.Findings – Weber's Law offers an appropriate means of objectifying consumer perceptions into physically measurable tolerances. It was found that jo...
TL;DR: In this paper, an industry survey was conducted to assess the improvement towards IT literacy and increased competitiveness through the use of IT in Hong Kong, by comparison with previous surveys in the UK, Australia and Hong Kong.
Abstract: Purpose – The adoption of computer technology by the construction industry has been driven by the competitive advantages offered by the available technology. The continuing evolution of information technology (IT) in the construction industry has led to widespread e‐mail use for informal project communications but, as yet, only limited use of IT for formal communications. This study aims to address this issueDesign/methodology/approach – An industry survey was conducted to assess the improvement towards IT literacy and increased competitiveness through the use of IT in Hong Kong, by comparison with previous surveys in the UK, Australia and Hong Kong.Findings – The research found that the Hong Kong construction industry's IT technical maturity and technical infrastructure are well advanced and remain at about the same level as Australia and the UK. Construction professionals commonly perceived benefits in migration to formal electronic communications.Originality/value – The perceived obstacles to the indus...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a cost index to serve as a price indicator for the Egyptian construction industry, which is based on the ENR indices model with modifications to better suit the Egyptian market.
Abstract: Purpose – The aim of this article is to develop a cost index to serve as a price indicator for the Egyptian construction industry.Design/methodology/approach – The model (Egypt 1 indices) developed for building the indices in this paper has been derived based on the “Engineering News Record” (ENR) indices model with modifications to better suit the Egyptian market. Egypt 1 indices are comprised of three indices, which serve as a general construction price indicator for the construction industry price movement in Egypt. The period analyzed in this research is 11 years (1988 through 1998).Findings – Validation of Egypt 1 indices numbers produced in this paper showed that each index does indeed represent the respective type of building for which it was computed. Further, the analysis of Egypt 1 indices compared to the ENR indices revealed that both indices exhibited trends that are generally similar from the year 1992 up to 1998 (the last year included in this study).Originality/value – This research has the...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors presented results of a survey that was designed to assess the construction industry's perceptions of the quality and availability of construction craft skills in Zambia, and the surveyed contractors' support for the introduction of a sector-specific training levy in the country.
Abstract: Purpose – As the development agenda for sub‐Sahara Africa (SSA) gains momentum, it has become necessary to refocus attention on effective and sustainable human resource development strategies for the construction sector in the region that include craft skills. Aims to provide insight into the availability and quality of construction craft skills in Zambia, and the SSA region in general.Design/methodology/approach – Using Zambia as a country case study, results of a survey that was designed to assess the construction industry's perceptions of the quality and availability of construction craft skills in Zambia are presented. The surveyed contractors' support for the introduction of a sector‐specific training levy in Zambia was also investigated and is reported.Findings – Findings point to both poor quality and shortage of construction craft skills in Zambia. Results suggest that construction sector‐specific training levy would be the most viable, sustainable and industry‐wide supported option for supplement...