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Article
Publication date: 13 October 2022

Neil Govender, Samuel Laryea and Ron Watermeyer

Construction projects require a range of documents (e.g. drawings and specifications) prepared by built environment professionals. In recent years, there has been a perception…

Abstract

Purpose

Construction projects require a range of documents (e.g. drawings and specifications) prepared by built environment professionals. In recent years, there has been a perception amongst professionals that quality of documentation has declined. “Low” professional fees were cited as one of the reasons for poor quality documentation. However, most studies on the topic contained inappropriate methodologies. Therefore, the purpose of this paper was to develop a conceptual methodology to comprehensively examine the relationship between fees and professional service output quality.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to evaluate the limitations of previous methodologies and identify variables in the relationship between fees and quality of professional service outputs. Findings from the SLR were used to develop a conceptual methodology to investigate the relationship between fees and quality of professional service outputs.

Findings

Based on a frequency analysis of factors in the construction literature, the three main variables influencing professional service output quality were fees, coordination and amount of time available for project tasks. The SLR and shortcomings in previous studies informed the development of a conceptual methodology to examine the relationship between fees and professional service output quality.

Practical implications

The conceptual methodology will assist in comprehensively investigating the effect of fees on the quality of professional service outputs. This is particularly relevant in countries where clients procure built environment professional services based on the lowest fee tendered but are concerned about quality. The methodology can establish how and to what extent “low” fees impact on professional service output quality. Industry professionals can also use variables identified in this paper to mitigate quality-related risks when producing professional service outputs.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the body of knowledge by identifying variables in the relationship between fees and professional service output quality. The identified variables can be monitored and controlled by researchers during future investigations. Additionally, a conceptual methodology was proposed to assist researchers to determine the effect of fees on professional service output quality. The flexibility of the conceptual methodology enables it to comprehensively investigate other key variables (apart from fees) impacting on professional service output quality.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 September 2024

Stephen Akunyumu, Frank D.K. Fugar and Emmanuel Adinyira

Equitable risk allocation is important for the effective management of inevitable risks in International Construction Joint Venture (ICJV) projects. Previous studies have…

Abstract

Purpose

Equitable risk allocation is important for the effective management of inevitable risks in International Construction Joint Venture (ICJV) projects. Previous studies have documented risks facing ICJV projects. However, there is a dearth of studies on the risk allocation preferences that take into consideration the opinions of both the local and foreign partners. This study aims to fill this gap by ascertaining the risk allocation preferences of the partners of ICJV projects for effective risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a survey, data on risk allocation preferences were collected from both local and foreign partners of ICJV projects using a comprehensive register of 74 risks.

Findings

Following analysis, six risks were allocated to the local partner, 11 were allocated to the foreign partner, 51 risks were shared, four were allocated to a third party and two were to be negotiated based on the specific circumstances of the project. Practically, the study’s findings will help ICJV partners in drafting their ICJV contracts to adequately allocate risks and reduce contract negotiation time considerably.

Practical implications

The findings from this study will help partners in drafting their joint venture contract agreement and also reduce the period for contract negotiation. Knowledge of the preferred risk allocation is important in allocating risks in the contract agreement to the relevant partner for effective management.

Originality/value

This study, to the best knowledge of the authors, is one of the early studies to ascertain the risk allocation preferences of ICJV project partners in the Ghanaian construction industry – a departure from previous studies which focused on the identification and evaluation of risks. This study is also different from previous studies by considering the allocation preferences of both partners of the ICJV. The collection of data from both partners of the ICJV helped to consider their perceptions on risk allocation and evaluation, essentially leading to cross-cultural and optimal risk allocation preferences.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 3 October 2024

Nancy Côté, Jean-Louis Denis, Steven Therrien and Flavia Sofia Ciafre

This chapter focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the recognition through discourses of essentiality, of low-status workers and more specifically of care aides as an…

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the recognition through discourses of essentiality, of low-status workers and more specifically of care aides as an occupational group that performs society’s ‘dirty work’. The pandemic appears as a privileged moment to challenge the normative hegemony of how work is valued within society. However, public recognition through political discourse is a necessary but insufficient element in producing social change. Based on the theory of performativity, this chapter empirically probes conditions and mechanisms that enable a transition from discourse of essentiality to substantive recognition of the work performed by care aides in healthcare organizations. The authors rely on three main sources of data: scientific-scholarly works, documents from government, various associations and unions, and popular media reports published between February 2020 and 1 July 2022. While discourse of essentiality at the highest level of politics is associated with rapid policy response to value the work of care aides, it is embedded in a system structure and culture that restrains the establishment of substantive policy that recognizes the nature, complexity, and societal importance of care aide work. The chapter contributes to the literature on performativity by demonstrating the importance of the institutionalization of competing logics in contemporary health and social care systems and how it limits the effectiveness of discourse in promulgating new values and norms and engineering social change.

Details

Essentiality of Work
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83608-149-4

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2024

Hosam Al-Samarraie, Samer Muthana Sarsam, Ahmed Ibrahim Alzahrani, Arunangsu Chatterjee and Bronwen J. Swinnerton

This study explored the themes and sentiments of online learners regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or “generative AI” technology in higher education.

Abstract

Purpose

This study explored the themes and sentiments of online learners regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or “generative AI” technology in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

English-language tweets were subjected to topic modelling and sentiment analysis. Three prevalent themes were identified and discussed: curriculum development opportunities, lifelong learning prospects and challenges associated with generative AI use.

Findings

The results also indicated a range of topics and emotions towards generative AI in education, which were predominantly positive but also varied across male and female users.

Originality/value

The findings provide insights for educators, policymakers and researchers on the opportunities and challenges associated with the integration of generative AI in educational settings. This includes the importance of identifying AI-supported learning and teaching practices that align with gender-specific preferences to offer a more inclusive and tailored approach to learning.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 January 2024

Rufai Salihu Abdulsalam, Melissa Chan, Md. Asrul Nasid Masrom and Abdul Hadi Nawawi

The adoption of green building concepts and practices is rapidly gaining momentum globally due to their tendency to mitigate adverse effects of construction activities on the…

Abstract

Purpose

The adoption of green building concepts and practices is rapidly gaining momentum globally due to their tendency to mitigate adverse effects of construction activities on the environment. The purpose of this study is to examine the challenges and benefits of implementing green building development in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected from questionnaires administered to 122 participants selected using stratified sampling techniques in North-East Nigeria. Semi-structured interviews complemented survey findings with proposed solutions. The quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics to identify the benefits and challenges, while thematic analysis was used to identify effective measures to the challenges of green building.

Findings

Results show that “conservation of natural resources”, “reducing maintenance” and “heightened aesthetic” were rated higher as environmental, economic and social benefits, and thus were significant to green building development. The study revealed “economic issues”, “government issues” and “absence of standard assessment system” were the key factors as internal, external and general challenges to green building. Most practical solutions were related broadly to policy, awareness and support as measures to challenges of green building development.

Originality/value

The study is imperative to bridge the knowledge gaps and provide empirical information for green building policy guidelines specific to North-East Nigeria’s built environment sector. The understanding of policy implications will assist in building regulatory and monitoring agencies in developing new internal management policies to inform the public and investors about the effects of green building development.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 14 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Tatik Tatik and Doddy Setiawan

This study aims to examine the main factors that influence the adoption of social media marketing (SMM) by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia and how the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the main factors that influence the adoption of social media marketing (SMM) by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia and how the influence of social media marketing on the performance of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. This research can provide input for teaching, public policy toward digital infrastructure and influence public attitudes toward digital involvement in business. This implication is in line with the findings of this research, which bridges theory and practice and has the potential to influence economic growth and quality of life.

Design/methodology/approach

The data collection method used is a survey method by distributing questionnaires to MSME actors. The number of samples in this study was 234 respondents. This study was analyzed using the Structural Equation Model (SEM) with the help of SmartPLS software.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that marketing through social media has an effect on the performance of MSMEs. MSMEs need to adopt digital media considering the rapid development of digital technology today to be in line with the demands of business development. Using social media platforms, consumers can instantly connect with new products, services and brands with ease.

Originality/value

This article provides a significant and original contribution to the literature by examining the influence of social media marketing on the performance of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. This report provides new insights into the adoption and impact of SMM in the Indonesian context, where internet and social media use is very high.

Details

Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-5855

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 June 2024

Mengying Feng and Tao Wang

Drawing upon the extended resource-based view (ERBV), this research aims to examine the effects of supply chain diversification (SCD) on enterprise digital transformation (DT)…

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing upon the extended resource-based view (ERBV), this research aims to examine the effects of supply chain diversification (SCD) on enterprise digital transformation (DT), focusing on the external perspective of the supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Leveraging panel data from Chinese A-share listed companies from 2015 to 2022, this research employs multiple regression analysis to empirically examine the relationship between SCD and enterprise DT.

Findings

The results of analysis indicate that: (1) SCD positively influences enterprise DT, a relationship that persists even after rigorous endogenous and serial robustness testing. (2) SCD fosters enterprise DT by bolstering its absorption, innovation, and adaptive capabilities. (3) Executive risk preferences and Pilot Policies positively mediate the effects of SCD on enterprise DT.

Originality/value

This research provides novel empirical insights into the underlying mechanism linking SCD and enterprise DT. The findings offer valuable guidance for enterprises seeking to optimize supply chain management and embrace DT, while also informing policymakers on strategies to facilitate SCD and DT enhancement among enterprises.

Details

Industrial Management & Data Systems, vol. 124 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-5577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 May 2024

Damla Yalçıner Çal and Erdal Aydemir

The purpose of this paper is to propose a scenario-based grey methodology using clustering and optimizing with imprecise and uncertain body size data in an emergency assembly…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a scenario-based grey methodology using clustering and optimizing with imprecise and uncertain body size data in an emergency assembly point area to assign the people on a campus to reach the emergency assembly points under uncertain disaster times.

Design/methodology/approach

Grey clustering and a new grey p-median linear programming model are developed to determine which units to assign to the pre-determined assembly points for a main campus in case of a disaster. The models have two scenarios: 70 and 100% occurrence capacities of administrative and academic personnel and students.

Findings

In this study, the academic and administrative units have been assigned to determine five different emergency assembly points on the main campus by using the numbers of the academic and administrative personnel and student and distances of the units to the assembly point areas of each other. The alternative solutions are obtained effectively by evaluating capacity utilization rates in the scenarios.

Practical implications

It is often unclear when disasters can occur and therefore, a preliminary preparation time must be required to minimize the risk. In the case of natural, man-made (unnatural) or technological disasters, the people are required to defend themselves and move away from the disaster area as soon as possible in a proper direction. The proposed assignment model yields a final solution that effectively eliminates uncertainty regarding the selection of emergency assembly points for administrative and academic staff as well as students, in the event of disasters.

Originality/value

Grey clustering suggests an assignment plan and concurrently, an investigation is underway utilizing the grey p-median linear programming model. This investigation aims to optimize various scenarios and body sizes concerning emergency assembly areas. All campus users who are present at the disaster in units of the campus are getting uncertainty about which emergency assembly point to use, and with this study, the vital risks aim to be ultimately reduced with reasonable plans.

Details

Grey Systems: Theory and Application, vol. 14 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2043-9377

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Üzeyir Kement, Bihter Zeybek, Sinem Soylu, Gül Erkol Bayram and Ali Raza

This study aims to investigate the impact of the transformational leadership style on the behaviour of restaurant employees. Also, it was aimed to investigate the effect of…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of the transformational leadership style on the behaviour of restaurant employees. Also, it was aimed to investigate the effect of transformational leadership on trust and the effect of trust on altruistic intention and organizational commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

The study integrates insights from transformational leadership to provide a fresh perspective to advance comparative organizational behaviour research. To test the hypotheses, the authors conduct a multiple analysis with observations from Turkey getting staff in culinary department with a quantitative survey.

Findings

This study equips different professional entities in the food and beverage industry with useful, contextualized links between transformational leadership. According to results, the perspective of transformational leadership style affects the concepts of trust, altruistic value and organizational commitment positively. Charisma, moral modelling and individualized consideration had a significant effect on trust. Also, trust has a significant effect on altruistic intention and organizational commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The present study incorporated confidence as a mediating variable; however, it is recommended that alternative scales be used in subsequent research endeavours. Future research endeavours may incorporate theoretical frameworks such as theory of planned behaviour or stimulus-organism-response.

Practical implications

Transformational leadership style is a good acquisition for restaurant employees. There is a healthier and safer job sharing in these restaurants. This can be interpreted as a more satisfied customer. A good leader has a great contribution to the future and sustainability of the business.

Social implications

This research created a new model and examined employees’ views on the company and its management. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that charisma, moral modelling and individualized consideration had a significant effect on trust.

Originality/value

This assists in learning better service quality developing and business practices to augment culinary staff, thereby maximizing their valuable contributions to tourism growth. This research created a new model and examined employees’ views on the company and its management.

Details

European Business Review, vol. 36 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-534X

Keywords

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