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Article
Publication date: 10 January 2023

Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo

Buildability assessment is an important tool used in improving buildability of building designs. Its practice has positive impact on construction project such as cost-saving…

Abstract

Purpose

Buildability assessment is an important tool used in improving buildability of building designs. Its practice has positive impact on construction project such as cost-saving, material waste reduction, labour-saving technologies, increase in efficiency, saving wasteful efforts and quality improvement as well as cost-effective methods of site construction and future maintenance. However, there are several factors hindering building construction industry to implement buildability assessment. In addition, there are few studies that described the factors impeding the implementation of buildability assessment in construction industry. This study aims to determine the factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the Nigerian building construction industry

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative research method was adopted for the study. Questionnaires were administered to purposively selected group of architects, engineers, builders and quantity surveyors. A total of 368 questionnaires were distributed among the sampled participants, out of which a total of 219 representing 60% were sufficiently filled and returned. Data elicited were analysed using inferential and descriptive statistics.

Findings

The results revealed that “poor co-ordination amongst different design disciplines”, “lack of buildability assessment awareness”, “design review pattern where construction personnel (builders) are invited to assess the building production information”, “unwillingness to invest extra money and effort during the early stage of project” and “designers value aesthetics and functionalities more than buildability in their designs” are the topmost five factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the Nigerian construction industry.

Originality/value

This study highlights factors impeding the implementation of buildability assessment in construction industry. An understanding of these factors can help stakeholders in the construction industry facilitate the development of strategies required to mitigate the factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the sector.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 May 2023

Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Anthony Ogochukwu Onokwai and Oluyemi Oladeji Faleti

Construction industry is a vital sector for economic and national development. However, the industry suffers buildability problems. Improving construction projects buildability is…

Abstract

Purpose

Construction industry is a vital sector for economic and national development. However, the industry suffers buildability problems. Improving construction projects buildability is the duty of every key stakeholder. Thus, this study aims to identify and evaluate the project designers’ roles in improving construction projects buildability in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted quantitative research method. A purposive sampling approach was used in identifying the representative sample for the administration of the questionnaire survey. A total of 122 questionnaires were distributed to the targeted construction professionals, out of which 93 questionnaires were sufficiently filled and returned, representing a response rate of 76%. This study used descriptive and inferential statistics for data analyses.

Findings

The results from factors analysis show that the roles of project designers in improving construction projects buildability in Nigeria can be categorised into two constructs: “discuss fully the design objectives with builders” and “prepare cost effective and buildable designs”.

Originality/value

This study contributed to more effective buildability studies by highlighting the roles of project designers in improving construction projects buildability in the construction industry. An understanding of these roles is vital for reducing buildability problems as well as for improving and embedding buildability as a practice in construction management.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2024

Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Fidelis Okechukwu Ezeokoli, Kevin Chuks Okolie and Aduragbemi Deborah Olojo

The application of good buildability practices is vital for improving the performance of projects and businesses in the construction sector. Despite the plethora of research into…

Abstract

Purpose

The application of good buildability practices is vital for improving the performance of projects and businesses in the construction sector. Despite the plethora of research into buildability in construction in the previous years, there is little information concerning how buildability practice can be successfully implemented. This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework that explains how buildability practice can be implemented successfully in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an integrative literature review method to synthesise literature from different domains to describe various themes by which buildability assessment can be successfully implemented in the construction industry.

Findings

The findings of the review of literature conceptualised a buildability implementation framework at four principal themes: buildability attributes for improving the practice of construction management, factors supporting the implementation of buildability assessment, measures for improving the buildability of building designs and factors impeding the implementation of buildability assessment.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study contributes to knowledge in three different ways. First, the framework emerging from this study provides guidance to stakeholders on strategies for the successful implementation of buildability. Second, the information gathered in this study is useful for the development of buildability assessment tool. Finally, the framework has a potential of improving the practice of embedding buildability into designs. The detailed descriptions of the relevant variables at each principal theme advance the understanding of buildability in the construction industry and are fundamental to developing buildability assessment tools for the industry.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 December 2023

Kailash Choudhary, Narpat Ram Sangwa and Kuldip Singh Sangwan

This study aims to quantify and compare the environmental impacts of Marble-stone and Kota-stone flooring options widely used for buildings in India. The study discusses the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to quantify and compare the environmental impacts of Marble-stone and Kota-stone flooring options widely used for buildings in India. The study discusses the possibility of carbon sequestration through Bamboo cultivation in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has followed a standard life cycle assessment (LCA) framework based on ISO 14040 guidelines. Three distinct phases have been compared on midpoint and endpoint assessment categories – raw material, polishing and disposal. Primary data has been collected from the construction site in India, and secondary data has been collected from the Ecoinvent 3.0 database. Previous studies have been referred to discuss and calculate the area of bamboo cultivation required to sequestrate the generated carbon from the flooring.

Findings

The study has found that endpoint category damage to resources, and midpoint categories of climate change, metal depletion and agricultural land use are highly impacted in building floorings. The study has also found that the Marble-stone floor generates higher environmental impacts than the Kota-stone floor in most of the midpoint and endpoint impact categories. This difference is significant in the raw material phase due to the different compositions of stones. The study also found that Bamboo has excellent potential to act as a carbon sink and mitigate the generated carbon.

Research limitations/implications

This study excludes human labour, cutting and distribution of floor tiles made of Marble-stone and Kota-stone. The researcher can use the study to evaluate, compare and benchmark the various building flooring options from the environmental perspective. The study aids to the body of knowledge available on the various building flooring options by presenting the LCA or the environmental impacts generated by two flooring options. It is expected that the architects and builders can use these results to develop carbon-neutral buildings. This study provides a methodology for governments, constructors, builders and individuals to evaluate, compare and benchmark the various construction materials from the environmental perspective by computing the environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of the materials.

Originality/value

This study compares two widely used building flooring options using the LCA methodology and evaluates the potential of bamboo cultivation near the buildings for carbon sinks. The study is unique because it shows the environmental impacts of two flooring options and the carbon sequestration method to mitigate/absorb the generated environmental impacts in or around the building itself through bamboo cultivation. This study may set the foundation for carbon-neutral buildings.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 October 2023

Junfeng Jiao, Xiaohan Wu, Yefu Chen and Arya Farahi

By comparing regression models, this study aims to analyze the added home value of green sustainability features and green efficiency characteristics, rather than green…

Abstract

Purpose

By comparing regression models, this study aims to analyze the added home value of green sustainability features and green efficiency characteristics, rather than green certifications, in the city of Austin.

Design/methodology/approach

The adoption of home green energy efficiency upgrades has emerged as a new trend in the real estate industry, offering several benefits to builders and home buyers. These include tax reductions, health improvements and energy savings. Previous studies have shown that energy-certified single-family homes command a premium in the marketplace. However, the literature is limited in its analysis of the effects of green upgrades and certification on different types of single-family homes. To address this gap, this research collected data from 21,292 multiple listing services (MLS) closed home-selling listings in Austin, Texas, over a period of 35 months.

Findings

The analysis results showed that green efficiency features could generally increase single-family housing prices by 11.9%, whereas green sustainability upgrades can potentially bring a 11.7% higher selling price. Although green housing certification did not have significant effects on most housing groups, it did increase closing prices by 13.2% for single-family residences sold at the medium price range, which is higher than the impacts from simply listing the green features on MLS.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the body of knowledge by examining the market value of broadly defined energy efficiency and sustainability features in the residential housing market. The findings can help policymakers, brokerage firms, home builders and owners adjust their policies and strategies related to single-family home sales and mortgage approvals. The research also highlights the potential benefits of capitalizing on green housing features other than certifications.

Details

International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 May 2023

Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo

Despite many studies on buildability from different perspectives and methods, the problems associated with buildability have not ceased from confronting the construction industry…

Abstract

Purpose

Despite many studies on buildability from different perspectives and methods, the problems associated with buildability have not ceased from confronting the construction industry. This paper aims to determine the critical measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was developed to address the aim of the study. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires to purposively selected group of quantity surveyors, builders, engineers and architects. A total of 368 questionnaires were administered and a response rate of 60% (219 questionnaires were returned) was achieved. Data elicited were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The results revealed that “the benefits of improved buildability should be made known to designers”, “more technical literature for improving buildability should be provided to designers” and “more education and training on buildability should be given to designers” are the top most important three measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study highlights the measures for improving buildability of building designs which are considered significant by construction professionals. An understanding of these measures is essential for reducing buildability problems as well as for improving and embedding buildability as a practice in the construction industry.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 June 2022

Nathaniel Ayinde Olatunde, Idienumah Monday Fidelis, Imoleayo Abraham Awodele and Bosede Olajumoke Adebayo

The study assessed the stakeholders prioritization of key performance indicators (KPIs) on public and private tertiary educational projects in Osun State, Nigeria intending to…

Abstract

Purpose

The study assessed the stakeholders prioritization of key performance indicators (KPIs) on public and private tertiary educational projects in Osun State, Nigeria intending to enhance their performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a total enumeration survey to purposively select built environment professionals working in the Physical Planning and Development Unit (PPDU) and procurement units of 17 tertiary educational institutions (7public and 10 private) in Osun State Nigeria for data collection. A quantitative research approach was adopted for the study using a questionnaire. A total of 102 questionnaires were retrieved from the respondents and used for analysis. Analysis of data was done using frequency, percentile, mean score (MS), Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, t-test, and Analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Findings

The study found that in the overall opinion of the respondents the most prioritized KPIs for tertiary educational projects are for the project to meet specifications (MS = 4.17), the project must be on time (MS = 4.01), and efficient use of resources (MS = 3.96). The important KPIs for the public tertiary educational projects is that the project should meet specifications (MS = 4.08), deliver the projects on time (MS = 3.96), and be under cost (MS = 3.84). While, the most prioritized KPIs for private tertiary educational projects are for the project to meet specifications (MS = 4.25), efficient use of resources (MS = 4.14), on time, and doing the right thing (effectiveness) (MS = 4.06) each. More findings indicated that there is no significant difference in the manner built environment professionals prioritized KPIs. However, there is only a 7% significant difference in the manner professionals working in the public and private tertiary educational institutions in Nigeria ranked KPIs.

Practical implications

There is a significant difference in the ways and manner built environment professionals working with the public and private tertiary educational institutions in Nigeria view resource utilization on their projects. As such, working environment either as public or private has a significant impact on resource utilization for tertiary educational construction projects.

Originality/value

The study compared opinions of professionals working with public and private tertiary educational institutions on KPIs to enhance project performance.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 April 2024

Onyinye Sofolahan, Emmanuel Chidiebere Eze, Ernest Effah Ameyaw and Jovita Nnametu

The purpose of this study is to investigate barriers to the adoption of digital technologies (DTs) in the circular economy (CE) transition in the construction industry. The aim is…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate barriers to the adoption of digital technologies (DTs) in the circular economy (CE) transition in the construction industry. The aim is to quantitatively investigate what the barriers to DTs-driven CE are in the Nigerian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of existing literature identified 32 barriers to DTs-led CE. A well-structured quantitative research questionnaire was developed and administered to construction experts using a convenient sampling technique via hand delivery and Google form. The gathered data were analysed using arrays of both descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Findings

The study revealed that the awareness of the digitalisation of CE is high, but the adoption is low. Five themes of the leading 10 factors responsible for the low adoption of DTs in CE transition in the Nigerian construction industry are (1) finance and demand barrier, (2) data management and information vulnerability, (3) skills shortage and infrastructure challenge, (4) poor government and management support and (5) interoperability and resistance problems.

Practical implications

This study could be helpful to decision-makers and policy formulators, which would provide an avenue for higher adoption of DTs in CE transition in the construction industry, better performance and environmental protection. It also provides a foundation for further research efforts in Nigeria and other developing countries of Africa and beyond.

Originality/value

Studies on the barriers to DT adoption in CE transition are still growing, and this is even non-existent in the Nigerian construction context. This offers a unique insight and original findings by pioneering the identification and assessment of barriers to the digitalisation of CE transition in Nigeria’s construction industry.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 April 2024

Yi Lu, Gayani Karunasena and Chunlu Liu

From May 2024, Victoria (Australia) will mandatorily raise the minimum house energy rating standards from 6 to 7 stars. However, the latest data shows that only 5.73% of new…

Abstract

Purpose

From May 2024, Victoria (Australia) will mandatorily raise the minimum house energy rating standards from 6 to 7 stars. However, the latest data shows that only 5.73% of new Victorian houses were designed beyond 7-star. While previous literature indicates the issue’s link to the compliance behaviour of building practitioners in the design phase, the underlying behavioural determinants are rarely explored. This study thus preliminarily examines building practitioners’ compliance behaviour with 7-star Australian house energy ratings and beyond.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a widely-applied method to initially examine an under-explored phenomenon, eight expert interviews were conducted with building practitioners, a state-level industry regulator and a leading national building energy policy researcher. The study triangulated the data with government-led research reports.

Findings

The experts indicate that most building practitioners involved in mainstream volume projects do not go for 7 stars, mainly due to perceived compliance costs and reliance on standardized designs. In contrast, those who work on custom projects are more willing to go beyond 7-star mostly due to the moral norms for a low-carbon environment. The experts further agree that four behavioural determinants (attitudes towards compliance, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and personal norms) co-shape building practitioners’ compliance behaviour. Interventions targeting these behavioural determinants are recommended for achieving 7 stars and beyond.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the behavioural determinants that influence building practitioners’ compliance decisions, and offers insight regarding how far they will go to meet 7 stars. It can facilitate the transition to 7 stars by informing policymakers of customized interventions to trigger behaviour change.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 7 November 2023

Buddhini Ginigaddara, Thayaparan Gajendran and Cameron Beard

Offsite construction (OSC) is a modern method of construction (MMC) that involves manufacturing and assembly of buildings. Industry 4.0-driven technological advancements have…

Abstract

Purpose

Offsite construction (OSC) is a modern method of construction (MMC) that involves manufacturing and assembly of buildings. Industry 4.0-driven technological advancements have accelerated OSC uptake causing many skilled construction workers requiring re-skilling or up-skilling. Quantity surveyors currently play an important role throughout a construction project life cycle, and hence, their knowledge on OSC projects is vital for the continuity of quantity surveying (QS) profession. The purpose of this paper is to critically review QS education in an OSC perspective and to propose strategies for up-skilling.

Design/methodology/approach

This research includes a detailed literature review of QS and OSC to evaluate how OSC affects the QS profession. Publicly available information on the university websites on accredited QS and construction management degrees was reviewed to identify OSC and MMC references, specifically the content listing and learning outcomes.

Findings

Out of the 315 degrees offered by 157 universities, only 69 degrees in 32 universities refer to OSC or MMC. OSC concept is explicitly referred in subjects related to construction technology, production management, lean construction, digital construction and MMC. As such, the research suggests including lean production principles, OSC techniques and design philosophies such as design for manufacture and assembly be added to the QS curricula.

Research limitations/implications

This research is a comprehensive desktop study that does not involve empirical data-based evaluation. Research findings inform strategies to improve QS education and professional competencies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first of its kind that evaluates accredited QS degrees and learning requirements in an OSC perspective.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

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