Development of Adapt-ABLE smart system – an end-to-end system for speeding up disabled housing adaptation process
International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation
ISSN: 2398-4708
Article publication date: 16 March 2022
Issue publication date: 12 August 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The problem of long delay and waiting time in Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) housing adaptation has been ongoing for years. This study aimed at constructing an innovative smart solution to streamline the housing adaptation process to prevent lengthy delays for disabled and elderly people.
Design/methodology/approach
The Adapt-ABLE approach is suggested based on a constructive research approach, where extensive theoretical development of the Adapt-ABLE concept is developed. It consists of four integrated platforms that undergo theoretical and analogical development and validations through applicable theories, a workshop, four brainstorming sessions and a focus group.
Findings
The proposed Adapt-ABLE approach utilises process optimisation techniques through an IT system for streamlining the process. The merits of the semi-automated system include the development of a preventive measure that allows measurement of suitability index of homes for the occupants, indicative assessment that shorten the application duration, procurement and contracting platform that utilises principles based on framework agreement and call-off contract, and a platform that standardised performance management for continuous improvement.
Originality/value
The Adapt-ABLE solution will cut the application journey of non-qualified applicants and suggest where help can be sought. The qualified applicants' application journey will also be shortened through an online indicative assessment regime and early online resources (means) testing. Overall, the proposed system reduces the waiting time, and timely delivery improves the applicant's quality of life by living independently. It will potentially save the NHS billions of pounds used to replace hips and residential care costs due to lengthy delays in the housing adaptations process.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Innovate UK for funding the project (funding number 42085). The authors are also grateful for numerous organisations that participated in this research.
Funding: Funding was obtained from Innovate UK to develop an Adapt-ABLE solution which commenced in July 2020. Further papers will develop, implement and test the integrated system.
Citation
Oyegoke, A.S., Ajayi, S., Abbas, M.A. and Ogunlana, S. (2024), "Development of Adapt-ABLE smart system – an end-to-end system for speeding up disabled housing adaptation process", International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, Vol. 42 No. 4, pp. 531-552. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJBPA-11-2021-0155
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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