Showing papers in "Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management in 2009"
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present literature that suggests that project teams comprising members from culturally diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas and new approaches to problem solving, however, they also introduce different understandings and expectations regarding team dynamics and integration.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present literature that suggests that project teams comprising members from culturally diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas and new approaches to problem solving. The challenge, however, is that they also introduce different understandings and expectations regarding team dynamics and integration. The question becomes how a project manager can effectively work and influence a multicultural construction project team, at the same time being attentive to the diversity and creating the structure required for success.Design/methodology/approach – Using a qualitative methodology, participants of heavy construction engineering projects revealed a number of multi‐dimensional factors that either facilitated or limited the effectiveness of multicultural teamwork. These were synthesised into a framework of eight key dimensions that need to be considered when managing multicultural teams. The identified key dimensions include: leadership style, team selection and composition ...
108 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a mixed methodology approach was employed with qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews, and quantitative data on project features and cultural orientations collected through a questionnaire survey of UK con...
Abstract: Purpose – It is widely recognised that improving project delivery in construction requires a consideration of the culture within the project organisation that is often associated with fragmentation, antagonism, mistrust, poor communication, finger‐pointing, machismo, and sexism. Many have thus called for cultural change on construction projects. However, change can only take place when there is an understanding of the drivers of culture within the construction project organisation (CPO). Given the argument in cultural theory that culture reflects distinct adaptations to the environments in which people operate, this research seeks to look for empirical evidence that the culture of the CPO is associated with particular features of construction projects.Design/methodology/approach – A mixed methodology approach was employed with qualitative data collected through semi‐structured interviews, and quantitative data on project features and cultural orientations collected through a questionnaire survey of UK con...
98 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore the job satisfaction of architects who are currently employed within the UK and find that between 20 and 40 percent of respondents are dissatisfied with their rate of pay, practice management, promotion prospects, working hours and opportunity to use their abilities.
Abstract: Purpose – There is evidence that those working within the construction industry are exposed to a number of stressors which potentially negatively impact well‐being, namely; long working hours, high workload, poor work‐life balance, low sense of professional worth and lack of job security. Additionally there is some evidence architects may also be vulnerable to an erosion of professional status, low pay and limited scope to use their creative skills. This paper aims to explore the job satisfaction of architects who are currently employed within the UK.Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire is used to elicit data from 110 practising architects on their occupational well‐being and work‐life balance.Findings – The results reveal that between 20 and 40 percent of respondents are dissatisfied with their rate of pay, practice management, promotion prospects, working hours and opportunity to use their abilities. Additionally the majority of respondents report some work‐life balance difficulties and approxi...
80 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors trace the origins of social infrastructure PPPs in Australia and give an up-to-date account by mapping projects that are either completed to date or in the pipeline.
Abstract: Purpose – Owing to increasing demands for new infrastructure and a reduction in public sector investment, Australian governments are increasingly turning to the private sector to form partnerships in the design, construction, ownership and operation of public sector projects. This paper aims to focus on the use of public‐private partnerships (PPPs) to procure “social infrastructure projects”, such as schools, hospitals and prisons. The research seeks to map the current extent of PPPs and to present some preliminary findings on the cost of bidding.Design/methodology/approach – The research traces the origins of social infrastructure PPPs in Australia and gives an up‐to‐date account by mapping projects that are either completed to date or in the pipeline. The research also describes preliminary findings on additional costs likely to be incurred in bidding for social infrastructure PPPs. A semi‐structured interview process involving senior managers from private sector PPP stakeholders was used in conjunction...
67 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed models to forecast final budget and duration of a highway construction project during construction stage using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and compared with those obtained from the current method based on earned value.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop models to forecast final budget and duration of a highway construction project during construction stage.Design/methodology/approach – Highway construction project data are collected and analyzed to find out factors affecting project final budget and duration before developing the forecasting models, research for which is based on the principle of Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The forecasting results obtained from the proposed method are compared with those obtained from the current method based on earned value.Findings – Factors affecting final budget and duration are presented. The forecasting results obtained from the proposed method based on ANN application are more accurate and stable than those obtained from the current method based on earned value.Research limitations/implications – Factors affecting final budget and duration may differ if applied in other countries, since the project data were collected in the Kingdom of Thailand. The forecastin...
65 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a capability maturity model (CMM) is proposed that can be used to measure improvement in developing human social relationship capital, and assisting in project strategy formulation, and two recent Australian alliance projects are analysed using the model to gain insights into how the quality of relationships within project alliances can be assessed.
Abstract: Purpose – The aim of this paper is to propose a way that the development of human social relationship capital can be identified and measured in a construction project environment.Design/methodology/approach – Theory on the creation of social capital and consequent intellectual capital between parties to collaborative project procurement is explored. This is an exploratory study using grounded theory.Findings – A proposed capability maturity model (CMM) is posited that can be used to measure improvement in developing human social capital, and assisting in project strategy formulation. Two recent Australian alliance projects are analysed using the model to gain insights into how the quality of relationships within project alliances can be assessed.Practical implications – The model described in this paper may be used to measure performance or as an initial step towards strategising a change management plan based upon identifying a “current” situation.Originality/value – Each alliance is unique and so its go...
62 citations
TL;DR: Wang et al. as discussed by the authors show how effective project team communications is one of the major challenges to a construction project's success and present the directions for further research to improve project communications in large-scale construction projects.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show how effective project team communications is one of the major challenges to a construction project's success. The success of large‐scale construction projects is critical to Chinese economy. The purposes of the research are to grasp the current status of communications in large‐scale construction projects in China and lay a basis for further research on project communications.Design/methodology/approach – A survey was conducted by postal questionnaire and telephone.Findings – Through analyzing the data obtained from the survey, the communication problems in large‐scale construction projects in China are exposed. The roots of the problems are summarized as lack of good communication mechanism, weak organizational structures of construction teams, lack of uniform standards for construction information, and lack of support for advanced communication technologies.Originality/value – The paper presents the directions for further research to improve communications ...
59 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors developed a novel approach that demonstrates the value of 4D tools to the construction industry by identifying and quantifying 4D-based key performance indicators using case study analysis.
Abstract: Purpose – Despite its benefits, the uptake of 4D planning in the construction industry is slow and therefore there is a need to demonstrate its value over traditional planning technologies. The aim of this paper is to develop a novel approach that demonstrates the value of 4D tools to the construction industry.Design/methodology/approach – The research strategy utilised draws on several social science research methods. The data collection methods employed included a literature review, an open‐ended questionnaire, surveys, semi‐structured interviews and the analysis of historical site records. The data collected were analysed using qualitative and quantitative techniques in order to identify, develop and quantify 4D‐based key performance indicators.Findings – This paper identifies and quantifies 4D‐based key performance indicators using case study analysis. In the case studies it was found that, on average, a 17 per cent increase in planning efficiency were achieved by the use of 4D technology, while the c...
58 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a knowledge retention model was developed and validated on a construction engineering consultancy, based on a thorough review of the literature, and validated through a case of a Construction Engineering consultancy.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to develop a model that can be used to assess the knowledge retention capabilities of an organisation, and suggest opportunities for improvement. A model to fulfil this aim is developed and validated on a construction engineering consultancy.Design/methodology/approach – A knowledge retention model was developed drawing on a thorough review of the literature. The developed retention model was validated through a case of a construction engineering consultancy. Semi‐structured interviews were used to elicit relevant information during the case study.Findings – A four‐stage knowledge retention process has been presented. These four steps are socialisation, codification, knowledge construction, and knowledge retrieval. The paper also describes four levels of maturity for the knowledge retention model. The first level demonstrated the extent of knowledge sharing in the organisation, the second level measured the extent of knowledge shared being documented, the third level...
56 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report on research into investigating ways in which construction clients can overcome barriers to partnering through the adoption of purposeful procurement procedures within an overall project management context, and reveal how the early involvement of partners, selected for their long-term perspective and willingness to use collaborative working arrangements, can help to overcome cultural and organizational barriers.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on research into investigating ways in which construction clients can overcome barriers to partnering through the adoption of purposeful procurement procedures within an overall project management context.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected through interviews, document analysis, surveys and workshops as part of a longitudinal case study using an action‐research approach.Findings – Analysis reveals how the early involvement of partners, selected for their long‐term perspective and willingness to use collaborative working arrangements, can help to overcome cultural and organizational barriers.Research limitations/implications – The research results are based on empirical study for which reasonable generalisations could be made, albeit cautiously. Clients' implementation of partnering requires an appropriate use of a broad range of suitable procurement procedures that are quite different from more commonly used procedures. Hence, clients need to ...
55 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors argue that effective change management can be brought about by better understanding the significant role of knowledge during change situations, and they investigate how construction project teams manage knowledge during unplanned change in the construction phase within collaborative team settings through a selected case study sample within the UK construction industry.
Abstract: Purpose – Unplanned changes in construction projects are common and lead to disruptive effects such as project delays, cost overruns and quality deviations. Rework due to unplanned changes can cost 10‐15 per cent of contract value. By managing these changes more effectively, these disruptive effects can be minimised. Previous research has approached this problem from an information‐processing view. In this knowledge age, the purpose of this paper is to argue that effective change management can be brought about by better understanding the significant role of knowledge during change situations.Design/methodology/approach – Within this knowledge‐based context, the question of how construction project teams manage knowledge during unplanned change in the construction phase within collaborative team settings is investigated through a selected case study sample within the UK construction industry.Findings – Case study findings conclude that different forms of knowledge are created and shared between project te...
TL;DR: In this article, a structured questionnaire survey was used to elicit data from managing directors (MDs) of home builders belonging to the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA).
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to delineate “senior managers'” perception of the competencies required by project managers (PMs) in Ghana for mass house building projects (MHBPs) and to discuss the implication of the findings for professional training and developmentDesign/methodology/approach – Drawing on a well‐acclaimed organizational psychology theory of job performance, a structured questionnaire survey was used to elicit data from managing directors (MDs) of homebuilders belonging to the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA) The data were analyzed using multiple regression techniques (stepwise)Findings – Of 64 competencies operationalised, seven are perceived to be importantOriginality/value – The findings provide PMs in Ghana an understanding of the competency profile their superiors (ie MDs) use in judging their performance This should therefore help the PMs to align their professional development towards improving their skills on these competencies Homebuilders can also
TL;DR: In this paper, the negative personal attributes and organizational factors, termed as "organizational neutralizers", were examined to evaluate the effectiveness of project managers on construction projects in a large construction project in Thailand.
Abstract: Purpose
– A large portion of the extant literature on leadership focuses only on the positive traits of leaders. However, the so‐called “dark side of leadership”, or negative personal traits of leaders, has received relatively less attention. Also, in practice, leadership is mostly evaluated in terms of the positive traits and strengths of leaders, even though certain organizational factors and followers' characteristics significantly contribute to the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of leaders. This paper aims to examine the negative personal attributes and organizational factors – termed “organizational neutralizers” – that impede the leadership effectiveness of project managers on construction projects.
Design/methodology/approach
– To achieve the research objectives, questionnaire surveys and interviews are conducted on a large construction project in Thailand. In total, 78 questionnaires and 35 interviews are conducted with project managers, deputy project managers, and other senior managers working for various stakeholders involved in the construction of the Second Bangkok International Airport (SBIA).
Findings
– Findings reveal that wrongful use of power, poor communication, and low experience are the leading negative personal factors which make project leaders appear incompetent and ineffective in the workplace. Also, organizational factors that hinder the leadership performance of project managers include: lack of resources, lack of planning and control, lack of synergy between performance and goals, and lack of higher management support.
Practical implications
– Practical implications are discussed for the selection and development of project managers and project staff, personnel performance management, and improvements in organizational culture, strategy, and approach towards project management.
Original/value
– The research findings presented here show that certain negative attributes of leaders and organizational factors can impede leadership effectiveness and performance. A number of possible directions are proposed in which future research can be directed to explore what hinders project managers from performing their leadership roles more effectively in construction projects.
TL;DR: In this article, a tracking and control system that automates the process of data collection from construction sites for fast and accurate measurement of work progress is presented, which integrates different data acquisition hardware and software technologies including barcoding, radio frequency identification (RFID), laser distance and ranging (LADAR), digital images, and a tablet PC.
Abstract: Purpose – The objective of this paper is to develop a tracking and control system that automates the process of data collection from construction sites for fast and accurate measurement of work progress.Design/methodology/approach – The proposed system integrates different data acquisition hardware and software technologies including barcoding, radio frequency identification (RFID), laser distance and ranging (LADAR), digital images, and a tablet PC as integrating media.Findings – The paper briefly highlights the advantages and limitations associated with each technology, and presents a methodology that best utilizes these technologies in an integrated system. At the core of the developed system is its database, which is designed to organize and store data collected from construction sites in a way that supports the developed methodology in progress reporting.Practical implications – The accuracy and timeliness of these reports are crucial for management teams to take corrective actions, if needed, so as ...
TL;DR: In this paper, a structural model that examines the following critical success factors of implementing CRM was constructed: operational and strategic benefits, knowledge top management support, technological readiness, and management capabilities.
Abstract: Purpose – Many businesses operating in the construction and engineering sector have been trying to respond to the demands being imposed on them by utilising information technology applications such as CRM and ERP, but immediate benefits and improvements in business performance have not been forthcoming. This paper aims to provide building material suppliers with the underlying knowledge to improve their business performance and customer relationships.Design/methodology/approach – A structural model that examines the following critical success factors of implementing CRM was constructed: operational and strategic benefits, knowledge top management support, technological readiness, and management capabilities. The model was tested using a questionnaire survey and randomly distributed to 150 building material suppliers.Findings – A sample 72 building material suppliers was obtained. Using the evaluation technique of partial least squares the analysis fundamentally revealed that CRM technological initiatives ...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identify the possible savings in time and cost due to different amounts of buffer stock on site, by introducing an activity-based simulation model, and the results indicate that simulation could help quantify the productivity of resources.
Abstract: Purpose – Many planners and managers prefer to maintain more than enough construction materials on site to avoid valuable labour and plant resources staying idle. Despite the fact that minimising the buffer stock would improve the productivity of a construction project, no one likes to take this risk especially when the consequences are not totally clear. This paper aims to identify the possible savings in time and cost due to different amounts of buffer stock on site, by introducing an activity‐based simulation model.Design/methodology/approach – In this research, details and data of a residential project involving substantial amounts of pre‐cast components are collected. The project participants are asked to unveil the constraints on site and throughout the material delivery and storage processes. Finally, the collected data are fed into the activity‐based construction simulation tool for analysis.Findings – The results indicate that simulation could help quantify the productivity of resources so as to ...
TL;DR: In this paper, an IT system developed to model different payment mechanisms to enable the supply chain members to decide on the most appropriate payment mechanism is presented. And the IT system to automate the developed methodology is then presented.
Abstract: Purpose – Different direct/indirect managerial and contractual links throughout the supply chain have been researched to improve project performance. These links are undoubtedly influencing payment and cash flow mechanisms. As different members of the supply chains are affected differently by the factors influencing cash flow, payment mechanisms have to be designed in such a way that this uneven sensitivity to cash flow factors is addressed and linked to value and utility. The purpose of this paper is to introduce an IT system developed to model different payment mechanisms to enable the supply chain members to decide on the most appropriate payment mechanism.Design/methodology/approach – The adopted methodology to select the appropriate payment mechanism is first illustrated. The mathematical model is then developed. The IT system to automate the developed methodology is then presented. The system considers alternative payment terms and conditions across the supply chain in a transparent and negotiated m...
TL;DR: In this article, a questionnaire-based research investigation targeting local contractors with a focus on critical problems associated with the process of claim management, starting with claim identification, through to claim notification, examination, documentation, presentation, and negotiation.
Abstract: Purpose – During the past few years, only a limited number of construction projects in Palestine were completed on time; indeed many of these projects had been delayed for reasons believed to be outside the control of both the contractors and owners. Such delays have given rise to many claims and conflicts. The aim of this paper is to investigate this widespread phenomenon, and its associated problems, from the perspective of the local contractors.Design/methodology/approach – The paper reports on a questionnaire‐based research investigation targeting local contractors with a focus on critical problems associated with the process of claim management, starting with claim identification, through to claim notification, examination, documentation, presentation, and negotiation.Findings – The paper presents the survey results and main findings which indicate that: lack of site staff awareness to proactively detect claims, inaccessibility or unavailability of relevant documents, and conflicts arising during own...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors identify the deficiencies of the visualization of the 4D CAD model and propose improvements, which employ different visual properties of 3D CAD objects such as color, line weight, and line type to represent the different activities' performing status.
Abstract: Purpose – The 4D CAD model has been accepted for better conceptualizing and comprehending the sequences and spatial constraints in a construction schedule. The purpose of this paper is to identify the deficiencies of the visualization of the 4D CAD model and to propose improvements.Design/methodology/approach – The presentation abilities of the existing 4D CAD model are analyzed and compared with the other conventional methods, namely Gantt chart, network diagram, and the calendar. Four aspects of the visualization are addressed, namely the overview of a schedule, the duration of an activity, the relationship of an activity, and the project progress tracking. The proposed improvements employed different visual properties of 3D CAD objects such as color, line weight, and line type to represent the different activities' performing statuses. A prototype of the 4D CAD model with enhanced visualization was developed on a construction project case.Findings – The model evaluation showed that this development cou...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors show how virtual prototyping technologies have been adopted on the pre-tender planning for a typical construction project, where the researchers and developers were actively involved in the production of the virtual prototypes on behalf of the contractor thereby gaining consistent access to the decisions of the planning staff.
Abstract: Purpose – Virtual prototyping technologies linked to building information models are commonplace within the aeronautical and automotive industries. Their use within the construction industry is now emerging. The purpose of this paper is to show how these technologies have been adopted on the pre‐tender planning for a typical construction project.Design/methodology/approach – The research methodology taken was an “action research” approach where the researchers and developers were actively involved in the production of the virtual prototypes on behalf of the contractor thereby gaining consistent access to the decisions of the planning staff. The experiences from the case study were considered together with similar research on other construction projects.Findings – The findings from the case studies identify the role of virtual prototyping in components modelling, site modelling, construction equipment modelling, temporary works modelling, construction method visualization and method verification processes....
TL;DR: In this article, a survey was conducted to the top 400 construction companies listed by Engineering New Record that also includes the top 100 construction management firms to find out the common PPPR practices that may affect the outcome of a GMP/lump sum contract and to provide guidelines to the construction industry for PPPR implementation.
Abstract: Purpose – A “pre‐project peer review” (PPPR) is conducted by a construction company or CM‐at‐risk firm to mitigate or reduce project risks prior to committing to a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) or lump sum. The purpose of this paper is to find out the common PPPR practices that may affect the outcome of a GMP/lump sum contract and to provide guidelines to the construction industry for PPPR implementation.Design/methodology/approach – A survey was administered to the top 400 construction companies listed by Engineering New‐Record that also includes the top 100 construction management firms. The closed survey method was used. Respondents were asked to select from multiple answers to each question. The survey preparers worked on the predetermined answers carefully to ensure that respondents are comfortable with their selections. For some questions, respondents were allowed to provide their own answers in addition to the selection.Findings – Even though conducting formal PPPRs is not common practice in the i...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the current status of road infrastructure in India, working out the gap in the availability of required length and the quality of roads besides the comparison with other economies.
Abstract: Purpose – This study aims to examine the current status of road infrastructure in India, working out the gap in the availability of required length and the quality of roads besides the comparison with other economies. It also seeks to analyse the socio‐economic‐political environment in India to assess the country's attractiveness towards private sector participation in road infrastructure development.Design/methodology/approach – The targets for the road sector development set by the Government of India and the current road status of China are taken as benchmarks to enumerate the existing gap in road development in the country. Growth trends of the road sector and their impact on the manufacturing sector have been worked out to assess the development of road infrastructure and its impact on the industry in the country.Findings – The study advocates that the present pace of road infrastructure development is inadequate in India vis‐a‐vis other developing economies. The quality of roads compared with China ...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors report a study that explores the means through which cognitive power under team learning is exploited for generative learning in order to remain competitive in the challenging business environment and to examine the extent to which various types of teams are used for purposes of GAs by construction contractors.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report a study that explores the means through which cognitive power under team learning is exploited for generative learning in order to remain competitive in the challenging business environment and to examine the extent to which various types of teams are used for purposes of generative learning by construction contractors.Design/methodology/approach – To ascertain the significance of cognitive power through various types of teams, a study was undertaken in Malawi, one of the countries in the Sub‐Saharan region. A questionnaire survey was employed to elicit data on the constructs of cognitive power from various types of business teams that were employed by construction contractors.Findings – Using cognitive power under team application as an analytical lens, the research shows that construction contractors displayed low cognitive, social and physical competences in the various types of teams as critical determinants for generative learning. Innovative behaviour...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explored staff's perception of the factors that influence learning in construction design companies and identified eight factors that affect staff learning: organizational support for learning; group learning; individual learning and sharing; absorptive capability; personal relationships; characteristics of the knowledge source; learning equilibrium; and work cha...
Abstract: Purpose – Development of staff learning enhances work productivity and sustains organizational development. In particular, design practitioners require both theoretical knowledge and mentoring with their practical experience. Without extensive knowledge, designers may produce design work errors that produce poor quality of work and this leads to project cost and time overruns. This paper aims to explore staff's perception of the factors that influence learning in construction design companies.Design/methodology/approach – Twenty‐six variables are reviewed from literature, and evaluated by 70 designers from construction design and consulting firms in Thailand. A factor analysis technique is applied to the group of identified variables.Findings – Eight factors that affect staff learning are identified: organizational support for learning; group learning; individual learning and sharing; absorptive capability; personal relationships; characteristics of the knowledge source; learning equilibrium; and work cha...
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors show the extent to which clients amend standard form contracts in practice, the locus of the amendments, and how contractors respond to the amendments when putting together a bid.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show the extent to which clients amend standard form contracts in practice, the locus of the amendments, and how contractors respond to the amendments when putting together a bid.Design/methodology/approach – Four live observational case studies were carried out in two of the top 20 UK construction firms. The whole process used to review the proposed terms and conditions of the contract was shadowed using participant observation, interview and documentary analysis.Findings – All four cases showed strong evidence of amendments relating mostly to payment and contractual aspects: 83 amendments in Case Study 1 (CS1), 80 in CS2, 15 in CS3 and 29 in CS4. This comprised clauses that were modified (37 per cent), substituted (23 per cent), deleted (7 per cent) and new additions (33 per cent). Risks inherent in the amendments were mostly addressed through contractual rather than price mechanisms, to reflect commercial imperatives. “Qualifications” and “clarifications” were ...
TL;DR: In this article, the most significant causes of production shortcomings identified in the study are poor coordination of processes or trades, which contributes heavily to the construction debris generated in building services works.
Abstract: Purpose – Given increasing user aspirations for comfort, connectivity, health, safety and security, the building services subsector now plays an even greater role in construction. It also contributes heavily to construction debris. Hypothesising that improved materials control can help reduce construction debris considerably, this paper aims to investigate relevant critical production shortcomings that generate construction debris in building services works.Design/methodology/approach – Relevant previous research studies on main causes of waste are first reviewed. Findings from a brainstorming exercise at a focus group meeting provide the basis for a series of structured face‐to‐face interviews with experienced site supervisors. Subsequent analysis of the interview findings, together with deductive reasoning, leads to the development of the proposed improvement strategies.Findings – The most significant causes of production shortcomings identified in the study are poor coordination of processes or trades,...
TL;DR: In this paper, a rapid construction methods decision-making system was developed, to be used during the preliminary and conceptual design stage of a roadway project, to preserve and expand the nation's roadway infrastructure with only a finite pool of resources with which to meet a state's transportation needs.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to show the way in which State Transportation Agencies throughout the USA are under increasing pressure to preserve and expand the nation's roadway infrastructure in the shortest possible time with only a finite pool of resources with which to meet a state's transportation needs. With this in mind, a rapid construction methods decision‐making system was developed, to be used during the preliminary and conceptual design stage of a roadway project.Design/methodology/approach – The research completed an extensive literature review and examined case studies to identify rapid construction methods and summarize valuable lessons learned. Designed for use by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the research developed a series of conceptual road user cost (RUC) tables that reflect different socioeconomic conditions by varying the value of time based on average hourly per capita income and wages for different counties in Kentucky.Findings – The case studies identified that the...
TL;DR: In this article, the authors explore the nature of worker engagement in construction by testing a management instrument (WISH) developed to measure it during a construction project and test the effectiveness of a site-wide engagement programme (IIF) run by the main contractor.
Abstract: Purpose – Worker engagement in health and safety (H & S) is a means to reduce risks in construction projects. A measure for worker engagement in H & S is a first step in ensuring improvement and maintenance of worker engagement in the construction industry. The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of worker engagement in construction by testing a management instrument (WISH) developed to measure it during a construction project.Design/methodology/approach – A stratified sample of workers in a construction project organisation was studied to test the effectiveness of a site‐wide engagement programme (IIF) run by the main contractor. The measurement was repeated 13 months after the first phase to check engagement at that stage of the project and to reduce bias in scoring.Findings – Four key factors emerged as the independent variables on which worker engagement depends. These are: knowledge and capability to engage, perceptions, attitudes and behaviours and actual involvement in H & S risk managem...
TL;DR: In this paper, the extent and nature of use of formalised risk management tools and techniques by UK design consultants in conservation refurbishment projects is examined, highlighting the divergent approaches employed by UK chartered architects and chartered building surveyors.
Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent and nature of use of formalised risk management tools and techniques by UK design consultants – chartered architects and chartered building surveyors – in conservation refurbishment projects.Design/methodology/approach – Following a review of risk management literature, a detailed questionnaire is prepared and considered by a focus group. Post‐revision, nearly 700 postal questionnaires are distributed to chartered architects and chartered building surveyors specialising in conservation work in the UK. The questionnaire contains Likert‐scale and closed‐end questions. Response data is analysed using SPSS software.Findings – The results highlight the divergent approaches employed by UK chartered architects and chartered building surveyors specialising in conservation refurbishment work, suggesting that a harmonised risk model would be appropriate and should be developed.Originality/value – The results make an important contribution to understanding...
TL;DR: No standard exists to specifically assess excavator stability, so the development and trial of a series of practical field tests designed to achieve this are documented.
Abstract: Purpose – The extensive use of mini‐excavators in construction presents a significant health and safety risk from their tendency to become unstable, or in the extreme to roll‐over, under certain working conditions. No standard exists to specifically assess excavator stability, so the purpose of this paper is to document the development and trial of a series of practical field tests designed to achieve this.Design/methodology/approach – Tests were designed in collaboration with a group of plant experts and competent operators. The tests were subsequently trialled by applying them to four mini‐excavators, the aim being to see if these plant items could be reliably assessed in terms of their stability characteristics. Results of the study were presented to H&S experts for comment.Findings – The tests were able to assess mini‐excavator stability. For each machine, five “stability criteria” were scored thereby producing an overall score, by which mini‐excavator stability could be conveniently represented.Resea...