Search results

1 – 10 of over 21000
Article
Publication date: 28 May 2024

Terence Y.M. Lam and Keith S. Gale

Construction framework agreements are identified by the UK Government’s Construction Strategy 2025 as an integrated procurement path to improve construction industry efficiency…

Abstract

Purpose

Construction framework agreements are identified by the UK Government’s Construction Strategy 2025 as an integrated procurement path to improve construction industry efficiency. However, criticisms from the industry have arisen from the lack of transparency and incorrect application of such frameworks. This paper aims to examine the client and supplier relationships within a framework agreement to discover what behaviour change drivers should be applied in the framework process to achieve the desired project outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A triangulation approach was adopted. An initial literature review on organisational behaviour and job performance theories was conducted followed by a qualitative expert review survey of client construction managers to confirm the project outcomes desired by public-sector clients and the associated behaviour change drivers. This was followed by a qualitative multiple-case study investigation of eight typical framework projects to form a commonality of views to explain the impact of behaviour change drivers on project outcomes.

Findings

Results from both qualitative studies demonstrated that improvements in project outcomes of time, cost, quality, sustainability and closer relationships can be driven by two sets of behaviour drivers: client organisational behaviour change drivers (setting up incentive and risk-sharing procurement approach, effective communication through development of stronger relationships and performance monitoring using contract key performance indicators) and supplier contextual behaviour change drivers (motivating conscientious behaviour and attitude towards self-improvement and innovations, supporting shared culture of providing services aligning with the client needs, promoting learning and development amongst all suppliers and most importantly providing trust and collaboration to the client).

Research limitations/implications

The investigation was based on an expert review with eight multiple-case studies conducted within the geographical area of England. Further research should be conducted nationwide so that the findings can become more robust and benefit the entire public sector.

Practical implications

It is suggested that framework managers should apply the supplier contextual performance drivers as selection criteria in the procurement process, whilst the client organisational performance drivers should be applied in the whole procurement and construction monitoring process to drive project outcomes aligned with the government construction policy objectives.

Originality/value

This research demonstrates that the project behaviour of clients and suppliers can be shifted within the construction framework environment to yield the desired project outcomes. This can be achieved by applying the client organisational behaviour drivers and the supplier contextual behaviour change drivers in tandem to optimise the framework process.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2001

ALISTAIR G.F. GIBB and FRANK ISACK

This paper presents the results from interviews of 59 senior personnel from major construction clients. There are two main themes: client drivers for construction projects and…

1417

Abstract

This paper presents the results from interviews of 59 senior personnel from major construction clients. There are two main themes: client drivers for construction projects and their implications for standardization of processes and components. The client sample is described and reasons for procuring construction projects are established along with the extent of their involvement in the construction process and hence their ability to influence the outcomes. Their views on value for money, preconceptions of standardization and their opinion on its future potential are explored. Many clients recognize the need to involve constructors and manufacturers early, although fewer actually achieve this. Misconceptions about standardization exist, but many clients are recognizing the benefits possible from standardization. However, very few actually measure benefits and so are unable to truly evaluate success. There is a future for increased standardization, but only if the industry recognizes the unique aspects of each client and responds positively to meet those needs.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 8 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 September 2023

Terence Y.M. Lam and Keith S. Gale

Construction frameworks are recognised by the UK Government as an integrated procurement path to deliver efficiency, collaboration and sustainability. This research paper aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

Construction frameworks are recognised by the UK Government as an integrated procurement path to deliver efficiency, collaboration and sustainability. This research paper aims to develop a performance-driving model for framework procurement to align with the government construction policy objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine the causal relationships between project outcomes and performance drivers. A successive qualitative multiple-case study involving eight typical construction framework projects was examined to further explain casual relationships.

Findings

Conclusive results from the quantitative and qualitative analyses validated the performance-driving model, generalising a framework procurement principle that project outcomes of time, cost, quality, sustainability and closer relationships are significantly driven by supplier's task and contextual performance drivers, and client's organisational drivers.

Research limitations/implications

The investigation followed two major public-sector organisations in the UK: infrastructure offices of local authorities and estate offices of universities. Further research should be extended to other public-sector situations to enhance the model further.

Practical implications

Using this model, framework managers can drive project outcomes by applying task and contextual performance drivers in order to select the best suppliers at the procurement phase, and by adopting the client's organisational factors at both procurement and construction monitoring phases.

Social implications

The empirical evidence supports the use of frameworks by public sector policymakers as a key strategy to develop the performance drivers further and improve efficiency and quality outcomes.

Originality/value

The results will be of value to support the policy of public-sector works organisations contemplating using framework procurement for executing continuing construction activities.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 13 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2016

Ka Leung Lok and David Baldry

The purpose of this paper is to address the structure of the category on client-provider outsourcing relationship in relation to facilities management (FM). The paper aims to rank…

2562

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the structure of the category on client-provider outsourcing relationship in relation to facilities management (FM). The paper aims to rank different outsourcing relationship types according to importance with respect to the four critical FM drivers including co-ordination, quality, competence and adequacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey design and measures operationalising the constructs allow the use of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a technique that tests FM outsourcing in a contingent approach such as a decision processing model. In the questionnaire surveys, a series of structured questions is designed. FM experts used the AHP methodology to analyse the FM outsourcing relationship types.

Findings

The model of the FM outsourcing strategies presented in the paper shows four main FM drivers at FM practice through the priority ratios of outsourcing relationship dimensions for different FM outsourcing contracts as derived by the AHP discussed by clients’ and service providers’ points of views. The result of a survey from the Hong Kong’s higher education industry reveals that the FM service providers can understand the needs of the clients in FM outsourcing contracts, including building maintenance, cleaning and catering. Hence, the service providers’ expected outsourcing performance will be good in these contracts. However, FM service providers do not understand the needs of FM clients in the FM outsourcing security contracts. Thus, the service providers’ expected outsourcing performance in such contracts will be poor. To improve the outsourcing relationships between the FM stakeholders, service providers must understand their clients’ needs to develop appropriate outsourcing strategies.

Originality/value

Understanding on the demand and supply of FM outsourcing services is now crucial for effective FM on outsourcing relationships between clients and service providers in higher education sector. The examination of current and prediction of future outsourcing relationships between the stakeholders to match the FM services significantly influence FM outsourcing success. This paper provides an intriguing insight into how the demand and supply of FM services can be successfully and strategically implemented into the FM outsourcing relationship in Hong Kong’s universities and tertiary institutions.

Details

Journal of Facilities Management, vol. 14 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1472-5967

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2014

Samsul Islam and Tava Olsen

This study aims to explore the challenges of truck-sharing and effective ways of dealing with those in achieving supply chain collaboration and collaboration in transportation…

3331

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the challenges of truck-sharing and effective ways of dealing with those in achieving supply chain collaboration and collaboration in transportation management (e.g. transport collaboration) for transport capacity expansion, and reducing carbon emission and traffic congestion for integrating environmental and social sustainability issues. This paper also reveals insights into successful shared-transportation and a reduction in empty trips.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory qualitative study was conducted by means of interviewing road carriers from the container transportation industry.

Findings

In a truck-sharing initiative, technical issues (e.g. carrying capacity) arise, some of which involve the container truck and some involving constraints that cannot be controlled, such as driving restrictions, seaport operating hours, and the presence of the large number of container categories pertaining to the industry. Therefore, a significant amount of “structural empty running” may always prevail. It should also be noted that some, seemingly vital, constraints can actually be changed, treated, or modified for better truck-sharing outcomes, such as building a foundation of trust and establishing coordination among road carriers.

Practical implications

A probable solution to the problem of increasing hinterland transport capacity is to make appropriate use of the huge number of idle truck slots that exist; this could be achieved by encouraging the acceptance of the challenges of truck-sharing realistically and suggesting an approach to handling them.

Originality/value

To broaden its appeal, truck-sharing initiatives must be able to overcome challenges by combining theoretical insight with an understanding of the practical aspects of such an endeavor. This original research fosters knowledge that is unique and which also has real-life applications in maritime logistics studies and supply chain literature for both port authorities and container road carriers.

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2002

Jay Sankaran, David Mun and Zane Charman

Reports an inductive, qualitative investigation into third party logistics contracts in New Zealand. The objective of the study was to uncover managerial insights into effective…

2852

Abstract

Reports an inductive, qualitative investigation into third party logistics contracts in New Zealand. The objective of the study was to uncover managerial insights into effective logistics outsourcing that are appropriate to the New Zealand context. A salient feature of the research is the methodology that involved going back‐and‐forth between data gathering (the principal source of data was flexible interviews) and analysis, which was conducted through formal coding techniques. Analysis reveals that the third party provider’s refraining from premature monetary commitments is an instrumental variable in the effectiveness of third party logistics contracts in New Zealand. Also uncovers how the uniqueness of the NZ context shapes third party logistics in NZ.

Details

International Journal of Physical Distribution & Logistics Management, vol. 32 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0960-0035

Keywords

Content available
Article
Publication date: 1 June 2006

45

Abstract

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. 38 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Article
Publication date: 1 August 2004

Ayman A.E. Othman, Tarek M. Hassan and Christine L. Pasquire

Confining the development of the project brief to a certain stage hinders the interaction between the client and the designer. In addition, it inhibits the incorporation of the…

3479

Abstract

Confining the development of the project brief to a certain stage hinders the interaction between the client and the designer. In addition, it inhibits the incorporation of the influential internal and external factors that may affect the project. In spite of the frequently adverse impact of change orders on project cost, time and quality, literature review and case studies showed that client organisations continue to use change orders to achieve their expectations and enhance their projects' performance principally because current construction management process instills an expectation that, change after a specified point is somehow outside the project brief rather than part of the ongoing development of that brief. This paper introduces the concept of dynamic brief development (DBD), a process that facilitates client satisfaction, meets the need to adapt to the brief developing factors for the benefit of the project and fulfils the desire to manage project change orders. In this paper, the need, aims and principles of the concept of DBD are explained and the factors driving brief development are identified. In addition, the rationale behind each factor is given and the case study sampling method is described.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 11 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2005

Ayman A.E. Othman, Tarek M. Hassan and Christine L. Pasquire

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the factors that drive changes to the construction project brief and the background to those factors. The founding argument, that…

2429

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the factors that drive changes to the construction project brief and the background to those factors. The founding argument, that incorporating these changes is paramount for achieving client satisfaction, introduces the concept of dynamic brief development (DBP), which permits changes throughout the project life cycle. The understanding and attitude of the major construction project stakeholders towards DBP are investigated along with identifying the originators of brief development and the value and risk sources.

Design/methodology/approach

A threefold method was used comprising a comprehensive questionnaire survey followed by structured interviews. The results of these were further investigated though a brainstorming session with major construction project stakeholders. A total population of 266,434 units for the survey was identified, reduced to a random stratified sample of 530. The response rate was 49.2 per cent and the responses were analysed using a weighted relative importance index. A total of 88 interviews were carried out and 12 client organisations participated in the brainstorming session.

Findings

The findings lead to the conclusion that there is a need to set out a detailed brief development management system that incorporates both value management and risk management. This system should enable the appropriate project participant to make informed decisions at the right time for the benefit of the client. The system must facilitate feedback to both client organisations and construction professionals to enable lessons to be learned. Understanding the relationship between the factors that drive brief development and the various project team members will facilitate managing brief development in a way that increases client satisfaction and enhances the performance of the project.

Originality/value

The paper identifies deficiencies in current practices and techniques and presents a system which overcomes them.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 12 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 April 2018

Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke and Douglas Omoregie Aghimien

The paper aims to determine the possible drivers of value management (VM) in the construction industry with a view of providing better-quality construction and achieving value for…

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to determine the possible drivers of value management (VM) in the construction industry with a view of providing better-quality construction and achieving value for money through its usage.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a survey design, and construction professionals from various strata in the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria are assessed using a convenience sample through the use of a structured questionnaire. Frequency, percentage, mean score and one-sample t-test are used for analysing the data gathered.

Findings

Result revealed that although knowledge regarding VM practices is high, its adoption in the industry is average and the involvement of construction professionals in VM workshops is low. Government involvement through the introduction of VM policy, client commitment and proper understanding of VM methodology aid the adoption of VM practices.

Practical implications

This research was conducted across six geopolitical zones of the country as against common practice of selecting a particular region or state to represent the entire country. The findings therefore show a true reflection of the VM drivers in the country. Its recommendations can, to a large extent, increase the use of VM in the country and also other developing countries where construction projects are executed through a similar method, style and approach.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the possible ways of increasing the use of VM in the construction industry with a view to achieve better-quality construction and value for money.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 21000