The Engineering Economist 

About: The Engineering Economist is an academic journal published by Taylor & Francis. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Capital budgeting & Cash flow. It has an ISSN identifier of 0013-791X. Over the lifetime, 1150 publications have been published receiving 14104 citations.

INVESTMENT UNDER UNCERTAINTY Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey, 1994, xiv + 468 pp. ISBN 0-69I-034I0-9. List: S39.50.

Abstract: (1995). INVESTMENT UNDER UNCERTAINTY Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey, 1994, xiv + 468 pp. ISBN 0-69I-034I0-9. List: S39.50. The Engineering Economist: Vol. 40, No. 4, pp. 397-398.

Cost estimation predictive modeling: regression versus neural network

Abstract: Cost estimation generally involves predicting labor, material, utilities or other costs over time given a small subset of factual data on “cost drivers.” Statistical models, usually of the regression form, have assisted with this projection. Artificial neural networks are non-parametric statistical estimators, and thus have potential for use in cost estimation modeling. This research examined the performance, stability and ease of cost estimation modeling using regression versus neural networks to develop cost estimating relationships (CERs). Results show that neural networks have advantages when dealing with data that does not adhere to the generally chosen low order polynomial forms, or data for which there is little a priori knowledge of the appropriate CER to select for regression modeling. However, in cases where an appropriate CER can be identified, regression models have significant advantages in terms of accuracy, variability, model creation and model examination. Both simulated and actua...

Fuzzy cash flow analysis using present worth criterion

Abstract: In practice, engineering economic analysis involves uncertainty about future cash flows To deal quantitatively with imprecision or uncertainty, fuzzy set theory is primarily concerned with vagueness in human thoughts and perceptions As an alternative to conventional cash flow models where cash flows are defined as either crisp numbers or risky probability distributions, we propose an engineering economic decision model in which the uncertain cash flows and discount rates are specified as triangular fuzzy numbers The present worth formulation of this fuzzy cash flow model is derived The result of the present worth is also a fuzzy number with nonlinear membership function The present worth can be approximated by a triangular fuzzy number Deviation between exact present worth and its approximate form is examined Finally, the fuzzy project selection is performed by applying different dominance rules To demonstrate the application of the fuzzy present worth function, a comprehensive numerical

The Economic Benefits of Green Buildings: A Comprehensive Case Study

Abstract: Several studies suggest green construction can result in significant economic savings by improving employee productivity, increasing benefits from improvements in health and safety, and providing savings from energy, maintenance, and operational costs. This article quantifies these benefits by establishing a set of measurable performance and building attribute variables, collecting longitudinal data, statistically analyzing the results, and performing sensitivity analyses for a precast concrete manufacturing facility located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Productivity, absenteeism, energy, and financial data are presented and an engineering economic analysis is reported. Results show that in the new facility manufacturing productivity increased by about 25%; statistically significant absenteeism results varied; and energy usage decreased by about 30% on a square foot basis. Considering all aspects, the economic analysis showed that the company made the correct decision to build a new green facility.

Managing Capacity in the High-Tech Industry: A Review of Literature

Abstract: This article surveys a new generation of analytical tools for capacity planning and management, especially in high-tech industries such as semiconductors, electronics and bio-techs. The objectives of the article are to (1) identify fundamental theory driving current research in capacity management, (2) review emerging models in operations research, game theory, and economics that address strategic, tactical and operational decision models for high-tech capacity management, and (3) take an in-depth look at capacity-optimization models developed in the specific context of semiconductor manufacturing. The goal of this survey is to go beyond typical production-planning and capacity-management literature and to examine research that can potentially broaden capacity-planning research. For instance, we explore the role of option theory and real options in modeling capacity decisions. We not only examine capacity-planning problems from the perspective of a particular firm, but also the interaction of cap...