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Article
Publication date: 26 January 2022

The-Quan Nguyen, Eric C.W. Lou and Bao Ngoc Nguyen

This paper aims to provide an integrated BIM-based approach for quantity take-off for progress payments in the context of high-rise buildings in Vietnam. It tries to find answers…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an integrated BIM-based approach for quantity take-off for progress payments in the context of high-rise buildings in Vietnam. It tries to find answers for the following questions: (1) When to start the QTO processes to facilitate the contract progress payments? (2) What information is required to measure the quantity of works to estimate contract progress payment (3) What are the challenges to manage (i.e. create, store, update and exploit)? What are the required information for this BIM use? and (4) How to process the information to deliver BIM-based QTO to facilitate contract progress payment?

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applied a deductive approach and expert consensus through a Delphi procedure to adapt to current innovation around BIM-based QTO. Starting with a literature review, it then discusses current practices in BIM-based QTO in general and high-rise building projects in particular. Challenges were compiled from the previous studies for references for BIM-based QTO to facilitate contract progress payment for high-rise building projects in Vietnam. A framework was developed considering a standard information management process throughout the construction lifecycle, when the BIM use of this study is delivered. The framework was validated with Delphi technique.

Findings

Four major challenges for BIM-based QTO discovered: new types of information required for the BIM model, changes and updates as projects progress, low interoperability between BIM model and estimation software, potentiality of low productivity and accuracy in data entry. Required information for QTO to facilitate progress payments in high-rise building projects include Object Geometric/Appearance Information, Structural Components' Definition and Contextual Information. Trade-offs between “Speed – Level of Detail–Applicable Breadth” and “Quality – Productivity” are proposed to consider the information amount to input at a time when creating/updating BIM objects. Interoperability check needed for creating, authoring/updating processing the BIM model's objects.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is not flawless. The first limitation lies in that the theoretical framework was established only based on desk research and small number of expert judgment. Further primary data collection would be needed to determine exactly how the framework underlies widespread practices. Secondly, this study only discussed the quantity take-off specifically for contract progress payment, but not for other purposes or broader BIM uses. Further research in this field would be of great help in developing a standard protocol for automatic quantity surveying system in Vietnam.

Originality/value

A new theoretical framework for BIM-based QTO validated with Delphi technique to facilitate progress payments for high-rise building projects, considering all information management stages and the phases of information development in the project lifecycle. The framework identified four types of information required for this QTO, detailed considerations for strategies (Library Objects Development, BIM Objects Information Declaration, BIM-based QTO) for better managing the information for this BIM use. Two trade-offs of “Speed – LOD–Applicable Breadth” and “Quality – Productivity” have been proposed for facilitating the strategies and also for enhancing the total efficiency and effectiveness of the QTO process.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. 42 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Maureen A. Kilgour

There has been an explosion of interest in “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion” (EDI) – also referred to as DEI among other acronyms. On the one hand, this management trend has the…

Abstract

There has been an explosion of interest in “Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion” (EDI) – also referred to as DEI among other acronyms. On the one hand, this management trend has the potential to draw attention to the ways in which organizational practices and climates can be transformed to have a positive impact on the underrepresentation of women and other marginalized and excluded groups in the workplace. On the other hand, there may be real consequences for women as EDI replaces other concepts such as women's rights, gender equality, affirmative action, employment equity, gender discrimination, etc. This chapter applies a gender lens to the EDI concept and management policy and practice. It juxtaposes EDI's emergence with the lack of progress on gender equality that is observed and measured in many regions of the world and highlights several critiques that may explain this lack of progress. It also identifies what EDI policies and practices need to take into consideration to better address gender inequality in the workplace. Legal approaches are discussed along with a list of potential areas of research on EDI and gender equality to determine the best path forward for making concrete progress on true equality for women in the workplace.

Article
Publication date: 9 August 2024

Heap-Yih Chong, Yufan Zhang, Cen Ying Lee, Fei Wang and Yubin Zhang

Audit trail cost management is crucial for ensuring accountability and enhancing quality assurance in construction management. Despite limited practical studies on audit trail…

Abstract

Purpose

Audit trail cost management is crucial for ensuring accountability and enhancing quality assurance in construction management. Despite limited practical studies on audit trail management from a cost perspective; this study developed a lifecycle-based audit trail cost management framework. It used synchronized Building Information Modeling (BIM) cost models and Bills of Quantities (BoQs) to address the existing gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a descriptive case study approach of a real-life hospital project in China. Data triangulation was achieved through interviews, observations, documents, and relevant artifacts.

Findings

The study identified three key factors contributing to cost variances between BIM cost models and BoQs: differences in measurement rules, model precision, and professional errors, particularly evident during the preliminary estimate stage. Notably, significant cost savings of approximately RMB 5.811 million were achieved during the detailed estimate stage. During the construction phase, a synchronized approach was deployed to improve precise payment verification and modifications to the BIM model. In the post-construction phase, the synchronized as-built BIM models and BoQs served as primary references to facilitate the resolution of operational discrepancies.

Practical implications

The research contributes to the literature by proposing a synchronized approach of BIM cost models and BoQs. This approach enhances traceability and accountability of project information, catering to the digitalization needs of the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study unveils a pragmatic approach to enhancing transparency and accountability in audit-trail cost management by synchronizing BIM cost models and BoQs at various project stages. The synchronized approach offers a promising direction for future research and implementation of audit trail frameworks to enhance cost management in construction.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 December 2022

Biyanka Ekanayake, Alireza Ahmadian Fard Fini, Johnny Kwok Wai Wong and Peter Smith

Recognising the as-built state of construction elements is crucial for construction progress monitoring. Construction scholars have used computer vision-based algorithms to…

Abstract

Purpose

Recognising the as-built state of construction elements is crucial for construction progress monitoring. Construction scholars have used computer vision-based algorithms to automate this process. Robust object recognition from indoor site images has been inhibited by technical challenges related to indoor objects, lighting conditions and camera positioning. Compared with traditional machine learning algorithms, one-stage detector deep learning (DL) algorithms can prioritise the inference speed, enable real-time accurate object detection and classification. This study aims to present a DL-based approach to facilitate the as-built state recognition of indoor construction works.

Design/methodology/approach

The one-stage DL-based approach was built upon YOLO version 4 (YOLOv4) algorithm using transfer learning with few hyperparameters customised and trained in the Google Colab virtual machine. The process of framing, insulation and drywall installation of indoor partitions was selected as the as-built scenario. For training, images were captured from two indoor sites with publicly available online images.

Findings

The DL model reported a best-trained weight with a mean average precision of 92% and an average loss of 0.83. Compared to previous studies, the automation level of this study is high due to the use of fixed time-lapse cameras for data collection and zero manual intervention from the pre-processing algorithms to enhance visual quality of indoor images.

Originality/value

This study extends the application of DL models for recognising as-built state of indoor construction works upon providing training images. Presenting a workflow on training DL models in a virtual machine platform by reducing the computational complexities associated with DL models is also materialised.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 24 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 17 July 2024

Dana L. Mitra

Investments in faculty development have been shown to lead to robust improvements in research innovation, faculty quality of life, and discussion and dialogue across disciplines…

Abstract

Investments in faculty development have been shown to lead to robust improvements in research innovation, faculty quality of life, and discussion and dialogue across disciplines. Traditional faculty development usually takes a university-centered approach, focusing on one-size-fits-all and large-group structures such as webinars and workshops. This chapter suggests that attending to faculty wellbeing might be improved through a coaching program for individual faculty that meets the needs of faculty where they are and helps them to make progress in their work, including tailoring supports to specific university cultures as well as creating a space for encouraging cohort coaching in order to provide support across faculty. This chapter introduces processes needed for the development of one’s academic identity – agency, belonging, and competencies (ABC). This ABC framework is derived from empirical research examining the developmental processes of becoming a change agent and serves as the foundation for achieving wellbeing and fulfillment for a faculty member.

Details

The Emerald Handbook of Wellbeing in Higher Education: Global Perspectives on Students, Faculty, Leaders, and Institutions
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-505-1

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 July 2024

Jhonathan Turner and Joan Lewis

An appreciative inquiry process was collaboratively undertaken with an inner city local authority and personal advisors where systemic social work practice was embedded. The…

Abstract

Purpose

An appreciative inquiry process was collaboratively undertaken with an inner city local authority and personal advisors where systemic social work practice was embedded. The purpose of this study is to explore how systemic social work principles could be integrated into the support of young adults leaving the care system, especially when safeguarding concerns exist.

Design/methodology/approach

Three fortnightly, reflecting team-style, appreciative inquiry workshops explored the integration into practice of systemic concepts under the themes of safeguarding, uncertainty and new possibilities.

Findings

Within the contexts of the organisation, other agencies and the relationship, six paired themes emerged: learning and navigating; positioning and risk-taking; and feeling and engaging. Core systemic concepts, such as self-reflexivity and mutual influence, can enable personal advisers to use themselves and their relationship with care leavers as a context for change. Considering responses to risk from different family member positions may support holding greater levels of uncertainty. Seeing resilience as a process rather than a personal attribute enabled personal advisors to think about how they connected with care leavers through shared life experiences, fostering narratives of hopes and dreams where new possibilities abound.

Research limitations/implications

Appreciative inquiry is generally seen as a defined model for implementing large organisational changes; this study comprised a small sample group, and the model’s application was less defined.

Originality/value

A gap exists in the extensive care leaver research, addressing safeguarding and working systemically. A conceptual model for practice is offered, with potential utility in developing further systemically informed training and supervision for practitioners. A less structured and more relationally engaged model for appreciative inquiry is presented.

Details

Journal of Children's Services, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-6660

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 July 2024

Ann Armstrong

I examine if current diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives can actually accomplish what they aim and claim to do. I argue that perforce they cannot, as they remain…

Abstract

Purpose

I examine if current diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives can actually accomplish what they aim and claim to do. I argue that perforce they cannot, as they remain instruments of capitalist corporations and other similar structures.

Design/methodology/approach

I draw on a variety of literature, from poetry to theories and to empirical findings.

Findings

DEI work so far does not live up to its hyped-up claims. It is time for scholars and practitioners to question the DEI industrial complex and its influence on organizational dynamics. It is not clear that justice can ever be achieved in a capitalist neoliberal economy.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is not an empirical paper.

Practical implications

DEI work needs to be re-conceived so that it addresses power imbalances, rather serving as a tool to keep organizations comfortable in seeming to change.

Social implications

DEI practitioners will need to draw deeply on their courage so that they do not reinforce the existing systems of capitalist oppression through their well-intentioned work.

Originality/value

The paper argues that DEI work can accomplish little without a radical reconceptualization of its nature as a genuine tool for change, rather than simply window dressing.

Details

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7149

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2022

Emmanuel Asare, De-Graft Owusu-Manu, Joshua Ayarkwa and David John Edwards

The concept of working capital management (WCM) has been a fundamental financial accounting term that has evolved in financial theory for centuries. Given that the construction…

Abstract

Purpose

The concept of working capital management (WCM) has been a fundamental financial accounting term that has evolved in financial theory for centuries. Given that the construction industry (CI) is financially dynamic, there is an imperative need to understand its WCM practices. The call for the industry players to adhere to efficient financial management practices as a result of a huge financing gap requires consented effort. This study aims to explore the trend of practices of WCM in the CI and elicit a broader polemic dialogue about this crucial theme.

Design/methodology/approach

The source of information for the study was secondary mainly from referenced journals and international conference papers published on WCM relating to the CI. A three-step sample selection strategy was adopted to identify the range and scope of publications on WCM in the CI based on the systematic literature review method.

Findings

The CI cannot boost of enough empirical WCM research to gain in-depth understanding of its practical trend. The developing economies are failing to produce insightful peer-reviewed papers on WCM to assist in bridging the infrastructural financing gap through apposite strategies. Gaining appropriate knowledge of the short-term financial operations through a conceptualization of WCM practices in the CI may lead to better strategies formulated for smooth operations.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering paper in developing economies that have taken stock of WCM knowledge of the practical trend in the CI. Future research prospects in which WCM matters can use it as a reference point.

Details

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

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 24 October 2022

Suzana Sukovic, Jamaica Eisner and Kerith Duncanson

Effective use of data across public health organisations (PHOs) is essential for the provision of health services. While health technology and data use in clinical practice have…

Abstract

Purpose

Effective use of data across public health organisations (PHOs) is essential for the provision of health services. While health technology and data use in clinical practice have been investigated, interactions with data in non-clinical practice have been largely neglected. The purpose of this paper is to consider what constitutes data, and how people in non-clinical roles in a PHO interact with data in their practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This mixed methods study involved a qualitative exploration of how employees of a large PHO interact with data in their non-clinical work roles. A quantitative survey was administered to complement insights gained through qualitative investigation.

Findings

Organisational boundaries emerged as a defining issue in interactions with data. The results explain how data work happens through observing, spanning and shifting of boundaries. The paper identifies five key issues that shape data work in relation to boundaries. Boundary objects and processes are considered, as well as the roles of boundary spanners and shifters.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in a large Australian PHO, which is not completely representative of the unique contexts of similar organisations. The study has implications for research in information and organisational studies, opening fields of inquiry for further investigation.

Practical implications

Effective systems-wide data use can improve health service efficiencies and outcomes. There are also implications for the provision of services by other health and public sectors.

Originality/value

The study contributes to closing a significant research gap in understanding interactions with data in the workplace, particularly in non-clinical roles in health. Research analysis connects concepts of knowledge boundaries, boundary spanning and boundary objects with insights into information behaviours in the health workplace. Boundary processes emerge as an important concept to understand interactions with data. The result is a novel typology of interactions with data in relation to organisational boundaries.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. 73 no. 4/5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 July 2024

Domenico Berdicchia, Giovanni Masino and Fulvio Fortezza

Coworking spaces represent a new, rapidly emerging phenomenon. Available empirical literature is sparse and mostly focused on structural elements, whereas the organizational and…

Abstract

Purpose

Coworking spaces represent a new, rapidly emerging phenomenon. Available empirical literature is sparse and mostly focused on structural elements, whereas the organizational and behavioral dynamics are still largely understudied. This study aims to explore the idea that coworking users’ proactivity (more specifically, job crafting behaviors) plays a key role in positively influencing creative performance, and that such a relationship is better understood by examining both the mediating role of work meaningfulness and the moderating role of knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on survey data from a relevant sample of users in Italian coworking spaces. A mediated-moderated analysis is used.

Findings

The “approach” job crafting behaviors have a significant influence on creative performance, via work meaningfulness, whereas this is not true for “avoidance” job crafting behaviors. Knowledge sharing plays a significant moderating role in the former relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The theoretical, practical and social implications discussed help to further the discourse surrounding the relationships between job crafting, creative performance and coworking spaces. This unique work setting enables a variety of value appropriation pathways to be promoted and supported. As such, coworking spaces are also “laboratories” where the future of work organization can be better understood.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing coworking spaces literature as it is one of the very few that sheds light on users’ behaviors, and to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first one to consider job crafting as a relevant variable. It also contributes to the current job crafting literature by helping to clarify why available studies have yielded mixed results in examining the relationship between job crafting and creative performance.

Details

Management Research Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-8269

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000