Engineering, Construction and Architectural ManagementTable of Contents for Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management. List of articles from the current issue, including Just Accepted (EarlyCite)https://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/0969-9988/vol/31/iss/13?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestEngineering, Construction and Architectural ManagementEmerald Publishing LimitedEngineering, Construction and Architectural ManagementEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/proxy/containerImg?link=/resource/publication/journal/b9d5b459dd295715c85b6964fd6a7035/urn:emeraldgroup.com:asset:id:binary:ecam.cover.jpghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/publication/issn/0969-9988/vol/31/iss/13?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestRipple effect of disruptions on performance in supply chains: an empirical studyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0924/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe present study is performed to identify the propagation mechanism of the ripple effect as well as examine the simultaneous impact of risks on supply chain (SC) performance. A theoretical framework with many hypotheses regarding the relationships between SC risk types and performance is established. The data are collected from a large-scale survey supported by a project of the Japanese government to promote sustainable socioeconomic development for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, with the participation of 207 firms. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the hypotheses of the theoretical framework. It is indicated that human-made risk causes operational risk, while natural risk causes both supply risk and operational risk. Furthermore, the impacts of human-made risk and natural risk on performance are amplified through operational risk. This study is one of the first attempts that identifies the propagation mechanism of the ripple effect and examines the simultaneous impact of risks on performance in construction SCs. Although many studies on risk management in construction SCs have been carried out, they mainly focus on risk identification or quantification of risk impact. It is observed that research on the ripple effect of disruptions has been very scarce.Ripple effect of disruptions on performance in supply chains: an empirical study
An Thi Binh Duong, Tho Pham, Huy Truong Quang, Thinh Gia Hoang, Scott McDonald, Thu-Hang Hoang, Hai Thanh Pham
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.1-22

The present study is performed to identify the propagation mechanism of the ripple effect as well as examine the simultaneous impact of risks on supply chain (SC) performance.

A theoretical framework with many hypotheses regarding the relationships between SC risk types and performance is established. The data are collected from a large-scale survey supported by a project of the Japanese government to promote sustainable socioeconomic development for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, with the participation of 207 firms. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the hypotheses of the theoretical framework.

It is indicated that human-made risk causes operational risk, while natural risk causes both supply risk and operational risk. Furthermore, the impacts of human-made risk and natural risk on performance are amplified through operational risk.

This study is one of the first attempts that identifies the propagation mechanism of the ripple effect and examines the simultaneous impact of risks on performance in construction SCs.

Although many studies on risk management in construction SCs have been carried out, they mainly focus on risk identification or quantification of risk impact. It is observed that research on the ripple effect of disruptions has been very scarce.

]]>
Ripple effect of disruptions on performance in supply chains: an empirical study10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0924Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-10© 2023 An Thi Binh Duong, Tho Pham, Huy Truong Quang, Thinh Gia Hoang, Scott McDonald, Thu-Hang Hoang and Hai Thanh PhamAn Thi Binh DuongTho PhamHuy Truong QuangThinh Gia HoangScott McDonaldThu-Hang HoangHai Thanh PhamEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-04-1010.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0924https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0924/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 An Thi Binh Duong, Tho Pham, Huy Truong Quang, Thinh Gia Hoang, Scott McDonald, Thu-Hang Hoang and Hai Thanh Phamhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Investigating the role of digitalisation in building collapse: stakeholders' perspective from unexplored approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0337/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestStudies showed that construction digitalisation could prevent or mitigate accidents rate on sites. Digitalisation applications may prevent or mitigate building project collapse (BPC) but with some encumbrances, especially in developing countries. There is a paucity of research on digital technologies application to prevent or mitigate BPC in Nigeria. Thus, the research aims to explore the perceived barriers that may hinder digital technologies from preventing or mitigating building collapse and recommend measures to improve technology applications during development. The study is exploratory because of the unexplored approach. The researchers collected data from knowledgeable participants in digitalisation and building collapse in Nigeria. The research employed a phenomenology approach and analysed collected data via a thematic approach. The study achieved saturation at the 29th interviewee. Findings show that lax construction digitalisation implementation, absence of regulatory framework, lax policy, unsafe fieldworkers' behaviours, absence of basic infrastructure, government attitude, hesitation to implement and high technology budget, especially in developing countries, are threats to curbing building collapse menace via digitalisation. The study identified technologies relevant to preventing or mitigating building collapse. Also, it proffered measures to prevent or mitigate building collapse via improved digital technology applications during development. This research contributes to the construction digitalisation literature, especially in developing countries, and investigates the perceived barriers that may hinder digital technologies usage in preventing or mitigating building collapse in Nigeria.Investigating the role of digitalisation in building collapse: stakeholders' perspective from unexplored approach
Andrew Ebekozien, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.23-40

Studies showed that construction digitalisation could prevent or mitigate accidents rate on sites. Digitalisation applications may prevent or mitigate building project collapse (BPC) but with some encumbrances, especially in developing countries. There is a paucity of research on digital technologies application to prevent or mitigate BPC in Nigeria. Thus, the research aims to explore the perceived barriers that may hinder digital technologies from preventing or mitigating building collapse and recommend measures to improve technology applications during development.

The study is exploratory because of the unexplored approach. The researchers collected data from knowledgeable participants in digitalisation and building collapse in Nigeria. The research employed a phenomenology approach and analysed collected data via a thematic approach. The study achieved saturation at the 29th interviewee.

Findings show that lax construction digitalisation implementation, absence of regulatory framework, lax policy, unsafe fieldworkers' behaviours, absence of basic infrastructure, government attitude, hesitation to implement and high technology budget, especially in developing countries, are threats to curbing building collapse menace via digitalisation. The study identified technologies relevant to preventing or mitigating building collapse. Also, it proffered measures to prevent or mitigate building collapse via improved digital technology applications during development.

This research contributes to the construction digitalisation literature, especially in developing countries, and investigates the perceived barriers that may hinder digital technologies usage in preventing or mitigating building collapse in Nigeria.

]]>
Investigating the role of digitalisation in building collapse: stakeholders' perspective from unexplored approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0337Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-24© 2023 Andrew Ebekozien, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Mohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanAndrew EbekozienWellington Didibhuku ThwalaClinton Ohis AigbavboaMohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-08-2410.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0337https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0337/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Andrew Ebekozien, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijanhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Appraising alternative building technologies adoption in low-cost housing provision to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0538/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThough alternative building technologies (ABTs) have been encouraged to address accessible and affordable issues in low-cost housing (LCH) provision, their adoption is still overwhelmed with encumbrances. The encumbrances that hinder ABT adoption require an in-depth study, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. However, studies regarding ABT and its role in improving Nigeria's LCH to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 are scarce. This research investigates encumbrances to ABT adoption in Nigeria's LCH provision and suggests feasible measures to prevent or reduce the encumbrances, thereby improving achieving SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities). This research utilised qualitative research and adopted a face-to-face interview as the primary data collection. The interviewees comprised ABT practitioners and end users in Nigeria who were chosen by a convenient sampling technique. The study's data were analysed manually through a thematic approach. This study shows that stakeholders should embrace ABT in LCH provision to improve achieving SDG 11 in Nigeria. Also, it clustered the perceived 20 encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision into government/policymaker, housing developers/building contractors, ABT users and ABT manufacturers-related issues in Nigeria's context. This study suggested mechanisms to mitigate encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision, thereby improving achieving SDG 11. This research adds to the limited literature by analysing ABT adoption encumbrances in Nigeria's LCH provision, which could assist policy formulation for the uptake of ABT in LCH provision and improve achieving Goal 11.Appraising alternative building technologies adoption in low-cost housing provision to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11
Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.41-58

Though alternative building technologies (ABTs) have been encouraged to address accessible and affordable issues in low-cost housing (LCH) provision, their adoption is still overwhelmed with encumbrances. The encumbrances that hinder ABT adoption require an in-depth study, especially in developing countries like Nigeria. However, studies regarding ABT and its role in improving Nigeria's LCH to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 are scarce. This research investigates encumbrances to ABT adoption in Nigeria's LCH provision and suggests feasible measures to prevent or reduce the encumbrances, thereby improving achieving SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities).

This research utilised qualitative research and adopted a face-to-face interview as the primary data collection. The interviewees comprised ABT practitioners and end users in Nigeria who were chosen by a convenient sampling technique. The study's data were analysed manually through a thematic approach.

This study shows that stakeholders should embrace ABT in LCH provision to improve achieving SDG 11 in Nigeria. Also, it clustered the perceived 20 encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision into government/policymaker, housing developers/building contractors, ABT users and ABT manufacturers-related issues in Nigeria's context. This study suggested mechanisms to mitigate encumbrances to ABT adoption in LCH provision, thereby improving achieving SDG 11.

This research adds to the limited literature by analysing ABT adoption encumbrances in Nigeria's LCH provision, which could assist policy formulation for the uptake of ABT in LCH provision and improve achieving Goal 11.

]]>
Appraising alternative building technologies adoption in low-cost housing provision to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1110.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0538Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-05© 2023 Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Mohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanAndrew EbekozienClinton Ohis AigbavboaMohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-09-0510.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0538https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0538/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijanhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Modelling the domino effect of advance payment system on project cash flow and organisational performancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0254/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrevious studies have postulated that an advance payment system (APS) positively impacts the contractor's working capital and is paramount to ensuring an efficient and effective project cash flow process. However, scant research has been undertaken to empirically establish the cash flow performance and domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance. The epistemological design adopted a positivist philosophical stance augmented by deductive reasoning to explore the phenomena under investigation. Primary quantitative data were collected from 504 Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registered contractors (within the grade bandings 1–9) in South Africa. A five-point Likert scale was utilised, and subsequent data accrued were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM). Emergent findings reveal that the mandatory use of an APS does not guarantee a positive project cash flow, an improvement in organisational performance or an improvement in project performance. The ensuing discussion reveals the contributory influence of APS on positive cash flow and organisational performance, although APS implementation alone will not achieve these objectives. Practically, the research accentuates the need for various measures to be concurrently adopted (including APS) towards ensuring a positive project cash flow and improved organisational and project performance. There is limited empirical research on cash flow performance and the domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance in South Africa, nor indeed, the wider geographical location of Africa as a continent. This study addresses this gap in the prevailing body of knowledge.Modelling the domino effect of advance payment system on project cash flow and organisational performance
Emmanuel Dele Omopariola, Abimbola Olukemi Windapo, David John Edwards, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Sunday Ukwe-Nya Yakubu, Onimisi Obari
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.59-78

Previous studies have postulated that an advance payment system (APS) positively impacts the contractor's working capital and is paramount to ensuring an efficient and effective project cash flow process. However, scant research has been undertaken to empirically establish the cash flow performance and domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance.

The epistemological design adopted a positivist philosophical stance augmented by deductive reasoning to explore the phenomena under investigation. Primary quantitative data were collected from 504 Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registered contractors (within the grade bandings 1–9) in South Africa. A five-point Likert scale was utilised, and subsequent data accrued were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Emergent findings reveal that the mandatory use of an APS does not guarantee a positive project cash flow, an improvement in organisational performance or an improvement in project performance.

The ensuing discussion reveals the contributory influence of APS on positive cash flow and organisational performance, although APS implementation alone will not achieve these objectives. Practically, the research accentuates the need for various measures to be concurrently adopted (including APS) towards ensuring a positive project cash flow and improved organisational and project performance.

There is limited empirical research on cash flow performance and the domino effect of APS on project and organisational performance in South Africa, nor indeed, the wider geographical location of Africa as a continent. This study addresses this gap in the prevailing body of knowledge.

]]>
Modelling the domino effect of advance payment system on project cash flow and organisational performance10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0254Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-16© 2023 Emmanuel Dele Omopariola, Abimbola Olukemi Windapo, David John Edwards, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Sunday Ukwe-Nya Yakubu and Onimisi ObariEmmanuel Dele OmopariolaAbimbola Olukemi WindapoDavid John EdwardsClinton Ohis AigbavboaSunday Ukwe-Nya YakubuOnimisi ObariEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-10-1610.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0254https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0254/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emmanuel Dele Omopariola, Abimbola Olukemi Windapo, David John Edwards, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Sunday Ukwe-Nya Yakubu and Onimisi Obarihttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Integrated artificial and deep neural networks with time series to predict the ratio of the low bid to owner estimatehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0454/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe variance between the winning bid and the owner's estimated cost (OEC) is one of the construction management risks in the pre-tendering phase. The study aims to enhance the quality of the owner's estimation for predicting precisely the contract cost at the pre-tendering phase and avoiding future issues that arise through the construction phase. This paper integrated artificial neural networks (ANN), deep neural networks (DNN) and time series (TS) techniques to estimate the ratio of a low bid to the OEC (R) for different size contracts and three types of contracts (building, electric and mechanic) accurately based on 94 contracts from King Saud University. The ANN and DNN models were evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), mean sum square error (MSSE) and root mean sums square error (RMSSE). The main finding is that the ANN provides high accuracy with MAPE, MSSE and RMSSE a 2.94%, 0.0015 and 0.039, respectively. The DNN's precision was high, with an RMSSE of 0.15 on average. The owner and consultant are expected to use the study's findings to create more accuracy of the owner's estimate and decrease the difference between the owner's estimate and the lowest submitted offer for better decision-making. This study fills the knowledge gap by developing an ANN model to handle missing TS data and forecasting the difference between a low bid and an OEC at the pre-tendering phase.Integrated artificial and deep neural networks with time series to predict the ratio of the low bid to owner estimate
Abdulmohsen S. Almohsen, Naif M. Alsanabani, Abdullah M. Alsugair, Khalid S. Al-Gahtani
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.79-101

The variance between the winning bid and the owner's estimated cost (OEC) is one of the construction management risks in the pre-tendering phase. The study aims to enhance the quality of the owner's estimation for predicting precisely the contract cost at the pre-tendering phase and avoiding future issues that arise through the construction phase.

This paper integrated artificial neural networks (ANN), deep neural networks (DNN) and time series (TS) techniques to estimate the ratio of a low bid to the OEC (R) for different size contracts and three types of contracts (building, electric and mechanic) accurately based on 94 contracts from King Saud University. The ANN and DNN models were evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), mean sum square error (MSSE) and root mean sums square error (RMSSE).

The main finding is that the ANN provides high accuracy with MAPE, MSSE and RMSSE a 2.94%, 0.0015 and 0.039, respectively. The DNN's precision was high, with an RMSSE of 0.15 on average.

The owner and consultant are expected to use the study's findings to create more accuracy of the owner's estimate and decrease the difference between the owner's estimate and the lowest submitted offer for better decision-making.

This study fills the knowledge gap by developing an ANN model to handle missing TS data and forecasting the difference between a low bid and an OEC at the pre-tendering phase.

]]>
Integrated artificial and deep neural networks with time series to predict the ratio of the low bid to owner estimate10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0454Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-09© 2023 Abdulmohsen S. Almohsen, Naif M. Alsanabani, Abdullah M. Alsugair and Khalid S. Al-GahtaniAbdulmohsen S. AlmohsenNaif M. AlsanabaniAbdullah M. AlsugairKhalid S. Al-GahtaniEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-11-0910.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0454https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0454/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Abdulmohsen S. Almohsen, Naif M. Alsanabani, Abdullah M. Alsugair and Khalid S. Al-Gahtanihttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workershttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0556/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWhile existing research has explored the association between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning the potential mediating role of work engagement in elucidating this relationship, warranting further investigation. The paper, hence, aims to examine the mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers. Based on the quantitative research method, the hypothesis was tested. The data were collected from 144 construction professionals using a structured questionnaire. Observed variables were tested using confirmatory factor analysis, and the mediating role relationship was validated using hierarchical regression. The outcome of this study shows a significant positive impact of work engagement and supervisor support on employee turnover intention. The study further showed that work engagement plays a mediating role in the connection between supervisory support and the intention to turnover and improve project and business performance. Turnover intention, on the other hand, negatively affects project and organizational performance. By enhancing employee work engagement and perceptions of supervisor support, the findings of this study may aid construction organizations in making better judgments regarding the likelihood of employee turnover. The effectiveness of the project and the organization will likely be greatly impacted. The results of this study provide supporting evidence and advance efforts at reducing employee turnover intention through work engagement and supervisor support in improving project and organizational performance.Mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers
Ernest Kissi, Matthew Osivue Ikuabe, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Eugene Danquah Smith, Prosper Babon-Ayeng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.102-120

While existing research has explored the association between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning the potential mediating role of work engagement in elucidating this relationship, warranting further investigation. The paper, hence, aims to examine the mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers.

Based on the quantitative research method, the hypothesis was tested. The data were collected from 144 construction professionals using a structured questionnaire. Observed variables were tested using confirmatory factor analysis, and the mediating role relationship was validated using hierarchical regression.

The outcome of this study shows a significant positive impact of work engagement and supervisor support on employee turnover intention. The study further showed that work engagement plays a mediating role in the connection between supervisory support and the intention to turnover and improve project and business performance. Turnover intention, on the other hand, negatively affects project and organizational performance.

By enhancing employee work engagement and perceptions of supervisor support, the findings of this study may aid construction organizations in making better judgments regarding the likelihood of employee turnover. The effectiveness of the project and the organization will likely be greatly impacted.

The results of this study provide supporting evidence and advance efforts at reducing employee turnover intention through work engagement and supervisor support in improving project and organizational performance.

]]>
Mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0556Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-05© 2023 Ernest Kissi, Matthew Osivue Ikuabe, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Eugene Danquah Smith and Prosper Babon-AyengErnest KissiMatthew Osivue IkuabeClinton Ohis AigbavboaEugene Danquah SmithProsper Babon-AyengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-12-0510.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0556https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0556/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Ernest Kissi, Matthew Osivue Ikuabe, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Eugene Danquah Smith and Prosper Babon-Ayenghttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Process model for international building permit benchmarking and a validation example using the Israeli building permit processhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0593/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBuilding permitting is mostly a manual, labor intensive and time-consuming process. Initiatives for streamlining the process are not always helpful since they often fail to address the core problems within the process. A framework for modeling the permitting process can be useful to identify bottlenecks, core challenges and best practices. Hence, the authors aim to demonstrate and validate a previously suggested workflow for permit process modeling using the permitting process in Israel as a test case. The authors implement qualitative expert interviews for data acquisition. The collected data are then processed for a qualitative data analysis. The results of the analysis are then validated using a focus group workshop in the field of building permits. In the test case the focus group consisted of Israeli experts. The authors present a detailed overview of the as-is building permit process in Israel and the existing challenges. Through this test case, the authors found that the framework is applicable in different countries and that it can provide valuable insights into the core problems within the process. In addition, application of the same framework in different countries can provide comparable results that would allow the authors to identify best practices. The major contribution of this work is the development and validation of a framework for building permitting process modeling which can be used to identify existing challenges and bottlenecks in the process. Implementing a structured and unified approach provides an opportunity to easily compare processes in different countries to identify best practices.Process model for international building permit benchmarking and a validation example using the Israeli building permit process
Judith Fauth, Tanya Bloch, Lucio Soibelman
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.121-139

Building permitting is mostly a manual, labor intensive and time-consuming process. Initiatives for streamlining the process are not always helpful since they often fail to address the core problems within the process. A framework for modeling the permitting process can be useful to identify bottlenecks, core challenges and best practices. Hence, the authors aim to demonstrate and validate a previously suggested workflow for permit process modeling using the permitting process in Israel as a test case.

The authors implement qualitative expert interviews for data acquisition. The collected data are then processed for a qualitative data analysis. The results of the analysis are then validated using a focus group workshop in the field of building permits. In the test case the focus group consisted of Israeli experts.

The authors present a detailed overview of the as-is building permit process in Israel and the existing challenges. Through this test case, the authors found that the framework is applicable in different countries and that it can provide valuable insights into the core problems within the process. In addition, application of the same framework in different countries can provide comparable results that would allow the authors to identify best practices.

The major contribution of this work is the development and validation of a framework for building permitting process modeling which can be used to identify existing challenges and bottlenecks in the process. Implementing a structured and unified approach provides an opportunity to easily compare processes in different countries to identify best practices.

]]>
Process model for international building permit benchmarking and a validation example using the Israeli building permit process10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0593Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-12© 2023 Judith Fauth, Tanya Bloch and Lucio SoibelmanJudith FauthTanya BlochLucio SoibelmanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132023-12-1210.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0593https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0593/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Judith Fauth, Tanya Bloch and Lucio Soibelmanhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Help, I am not coping with my job! – A work-life balance strategy for the Eswatini construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1060/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper presents the findings of assessing the strategies required for improved work-life balance (WLB) of construction workers in Eswatini. This was done to improve the work-life relationship of construction workers and, in turn, improve the service delivery of the construction industry in the country. The study adopted a quantitative research approach using a questionnaire administered to construction professionals in the country. The data gathered were analysed using frequency, percentage, Mann–Whitney U test, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The findings revealed that the level of implementation of WLB initiatives in the Eswatini construction industry is still low. Following the attaining of several model fitness, the study found that the key strategies needed for effective WLB can be classified into four significant components, namely: (1) leave, (2) health and wellness, (3) work flexibility, and; (4) days off/shared work. The findings offer valuable benefits to construction participants as the adoption of the identified critical strategies can lead to the fulfilment of WLB of the construction workforce and by extension, the construction industry can benefit from better job performance. This study is the first to assess the strategies needed for improved WLB of construction workers in Eswatini. Furthermore, the study offers a theoretical platform for future discourse on WLB in Eswatini, a country that has not gained significant attention in past WLB literature.Help, I am not coping with my job! – A work-life balance strategy for the Eswatini construction industry
Douglas Aghimien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Nicholas Chileshe, Bhekinkosi Jabulani Dlamini
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.140-159

This paper presents the findings of assessing the strategies required for improved work-life balance (WLB) of construction workers in Eswatini. This was done to improve the work-life relationship of construction workers and, in turn, improve the service delivery of the construction industry in the country.

The study adopted a quantitative research approach using a questionnaire administered to construction professionals in the country. The data gathered were analysed using frequency, percentage, Mann–Whitney U test, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

The findings revealed that the level of implementation of WLB initiatives in the Eswatini construction industry is still low. Following the attaining of several model fitness, the study found that the key strategies needed for effective WLB can be classified into four significant components, namely: (1) leave, (2) health and wellness, (3) work flexibility, and; (4) days off/shared work.

The findings offer valuable benefits to construction participants as the adoption of the identified critical strategies can lead to the fulfilment of WLB of the construction workforce and by extension, the construction industry can benefit from better job performance.

This study is the first to assess the strategies needed for improved WLB of construction workers in Eswatini. Furthermore, the study offers a theoretical platform for future discourse on WLB in Eswatini, a country that has not gained significant attention in past WLB literature.

]]>
Help, I am not coping with my job! – A work-life balance strategy for the Eswatini construction industry10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1060Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-05-19© 2022 Douglas Aghimien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Nicholas Chileshe and Bhekinkosi Jabulani DlaminiDouglas AghimienClinton Ohis AigbavboaWellington Didibhuku ThwalaNicholas ChilesheBhekinkosi Jabulani DlaminiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132022-05-1910.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1060https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1060/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Douglas Aghimien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Nicholas Chileshe and Bhekinkosi Jabulani Dlaminihttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Understanding the BIM actor role: a study of employer and employee preference and availability in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2021-0714/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe implementation of BIM in the construction industry requires the coevolution of the various aspects of the BIM ecosystem. The human dimension is a very important dimension of the ecosystem necessary for BIM implementation. It is imperative to study this aspect of the BIM ecosystem both from the employer perspective and employee availability to provide insights for stakeholders (job seekers, employers, students, researchers, policymakers, higher education institutions, career advisors and curriculum developers) interested in the labour market dynamics. To understand the BIM actor roles through the employer lens and the actual BIM actors in the construction industry, this study employed data mining of job adverts from LinkedIn and Mncjobs website. Content analysis was employed to gain insights into the data collected. Also, through a quantitative approach, the existing BIM actor roles were identified. The study identified the employers' expectations of BIM actors; however, it is noted that the BIM actor recruitment space is still a loose one as recruiters put out open advertisements to get a large pool of applicants. From the data analysed, it is concluded that the BIM actor role is not an entirely new profession. However, it simply exists as construction industry professionals with BIM tool skills. Also, the professional development route is not well defined yet. This study presents a realistic angle to BIM actor roles hence enhancing BIM implementation from the human perspective. The findings present an insight into the preferred against the actual.Understanding the BIM actor role: a study of employer and employee preference and availability in the construction industry
Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Obuks Augustine Ejohwomu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.160-180

The implementation of BIM in the construction industry requires the coevolution of the various aspects of the BIM ecosystem. The human dimension is a very important dimension of the ecosystem necessary for BIM implementation. It is imperative to study this aspect of the BIM ecosystem both from the employer perspective and employee availability to provide insights for stakeholders (job seekers, employers, students, researchers, policymakers, higher education institutions, career advisors and curriculum developers) interested in the labour market dynamics.

To understand the BIM actor roles through the employer lens and the actual BIM actors in the construction industry, this study employed data mining of job adverts from LinkedIn and Mncjobs website. Content analysis was employed to gain insights into the data collected. Also, through a quantitative approach, the existing BIM actor roles were identified.

The study identified the employers' expectations of BIM actors; however, it is noted that the BIM actor recruitment space is still a loose one as recruiters put out open advertisements to get a large pool of applicants. From the data analysed, it is concluded that the BIM actor role is not an entirely new profession. However, it simply exists as construction industry professionals with BIM tool skills. Also, the professional development route is not well defined yet.

This study presents a realistic angle to BIM actor roles hence enhancing BIM implementation from the human perspective. The findings present an insight into the preferred against the actual.

]]>
Understanding the BIM actor role: a study of employer and employee preference and availability in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-08-2021-0714Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-06-14© 2022 Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Obuks Augustine EjohwomuSamuel Adeniyi AdekunleClinton Ohis AigbavboaObuks Augustine EjohwomuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132022-06-1410.1108/ECAM-08-2021-0714https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2021-0714/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Obuks Augustine Ejohwomuhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Project control system (PCS) implementation in engineering and construction projects: an empirical study in Saudi’s petroleum and chemical industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0114/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThere is growing recognition that effective project control systems (PCS) are critical to the success of projects. The relationship between the individual elements of PCS and successfully achieving project objectives has yet to be explored. This research investigates the enablers and barriers that influence the elements of PCS success and drive project objectives. This study adopts a mixed approach of descriptive analysis and regression models to explore the impact of six PCS elements on project outcomes. Petroleum and chemical projects in Saudi Arabia were selected as a case study to validate the research model. Data from a survey of 400 project managers in Saudi’s petroleum and chemical industry reveal that successful PCS are the key to achieving all project outcomes, but they are particularly critical for meeting project cost objectives. Project Governance was identified as the most important of the six PCS elements for meeting project objectives. A lack of standard processes emerged as the most significant barrier to achieving effective project governance, while having skilled and experienced project team members was the most significant enabler for implementing earned value. The study offers a direction for implementing and developing PCS as a strategic tool and focuses on the PCS elements that can improve project outcomes. This research contributes to project management knowledge and differs from previous attempts in two ways. Firstly, it investigates the elements of PCS that are critical to achieving project scope, schedule and cost objectives; secondly, enablers and barriers of PCS success are examined to see how they influence each element independently.Project control system (PCS) implementation in engineering and construction projects: an empirical study in Saudi’s petroleum and chemical industry
Sahar Jawad, Ann Ledwith, Rashid Khan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.181-207

There is growing recognition that effective project control systems (PCS) are critical to the success of projects. The relationship between the individual elements of PCS and successfully achieving project objectives has yet to be explored. This research investigates the enablers and barriers that influence the elements of PCS success and drive project objectives.

This study adopts a mixed approach of descriptive analysis and regression models to explore the impact of six PCS elements on project outcomes. Petroleum and chemical projects in Saudi Arabia were selected as a case study to validate the research model.

Data from a survey of 400 project managers in Saudi’s petroleum and chemical industry reveal that successful PCS are the key to achieving all project outcomes, but they are particularly critical for meeting project cost objectives. Project Governance was identified as the most important of the six PCS elements for meeting project objectives. A lack of standard processes emerged as the most significant barrier to achieving effective project governance, while having skilled and experienced project team members was the most significant enabler for implementing earned value.

The study offers a direction for implementing and developing PCS as a strategic tool and focuses on the PCS elements that can improve project outcomes.

This research contributes to project management knowledge and differs from previous attempts in two ways. Firstly, it investigates the elements of PCS that are critical to achieving project scope, schedule and cost objectives; secondly, enablers and barriers of PCS success are examined to see how they influence each element independently.

]]>
Project control system (PCS) implementation in engineering and construction projects: an empirical study in Saudi’s petroleum and chemical industry10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0114Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-06-28© 2022 Sahar Jawad, Ann Ledwith and Rashid KhanSahar JawadAnn LedwithRashid KhanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132022-06-2810.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0114https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0114/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Sahar Jawad, Ann Ledwith and Rashid Khanhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Public procurement of engineering services: the influence of task characteristics on organisational controlhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0055/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrior research has emphasised the importance of the early phases of construction projects, as well as the difficulties of procuring engineering services – especially due to the uncertainties. Despite that, studies on the public procurement of engineering services are scarce. Although scholars have shown that uncertainty may affect the choice of control modes, the level of uncertainty that characterises services is not addressed by the two task characteristics: knowledge of the transformation process and output measurability. The purpose is to investigate organisational control in public procurement of engineering services. The existing control model was adjusted in this study by conceptually adding uncertainty as a third aspect to the two task characteristics. A single case study of the Swedish Transport Administration was used. The empirical data, comprising 14 interviews with managers from the client and engineering consulting companies, were analysed using flexible pattern matching and visual mapping approaches and then illustrated using the model. The public client did not base its choice of control modes on uncertainty, but rather on the other two task characteristics. Consequently, the service providers argued that the chosen control modes reduced their creativity, increased their financial risks and caused unclear responsibilities. This study therefore shows that uncertainty is an important factor to consider in the choice of control modes, both from a theoretical perspective and from the service providers' point of view. The developed model may therefore be useful for researchers as well as practitioners. This study is the first attempt to add uncertainty as a task characteristic when choosing control modes. The results contribute to the scarce control literature regarding the procurement of engineering services for construction projects and the procurement of other services with high uncertainty.Public procurement of engineering services: the influence of task characteristics on organisational control
Klara Granheimer, Tina Karrbom Gustavsson, Per Erik Eriksson
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.208-222

Prior research has emphasised the importance of the early phases of construction projects, as well as the difficulties of procuring engineering services – especially due to the uncertainties. Despite that, studies on the public procurement of engineering services are scarce. Although scholars have shown that uncertainty may affect the choice of control modes, the level of uncertainty that characterises services is not addressed by the two task characteristics: knowledge of the transformation process and output measurability. The purpose is to investigate organisational control in public procurement of engineering services.

The existing control model was adjusted in this study by conceptually adding uncertainty as a third aspect to the two task characteristics. A single case study of the Swedish Transport Administration was used. The empirical data, comprising 14 interviews with managers from the client and engineering consulting companies, were analysed using flexible pattern matching and visual mapping approaches and then illustrated using the model.

The public client did not base its choice of control modes on uncertainty, but rather on the other two task characteristics. Consequently, the service providers argued that the chosen control modes reduced their creativity, increased their financial risks and caused unclear responsibilities. This study therefore shows that uncertainty is an important factor to consider in the choice of control modes, both from a theoretical perspective and from the service providers' point of view. The developed model may therefore be useful for researchers as well as practitioners.

This study is the first attempt to add uncertainty as a task characteristic when choosing control modes. The results contribute to the scarce control literature regarding the procurement of engineering services for construction projects and the procurement of other services with high uncertainty.

]]>
Public procurement of engineering services: the influence of task characteristics on organisational control10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0055Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-07-06© 2022 Klara Granheimer, Tina Karrbom Gustavsson and Per Erik ErikssonKlara GranheimerTina Karrbom GustavssonPer Erik ErikssonEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132022-07-0610.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0055https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0055/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Klara Granheimer, Tina Karrbom Gustavsson and Per Erik Erikssonhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Can ChatGPT exceed humans in construction project risk management?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0819/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe objective of this research is to investigate the capabilities of the ChatGPT GPT-4 model, a form of artificial intelligence (AI), in comparison to human experts in the context of construction project risk management. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study draws a qualitative and quantitative comparison between 16 human risk management experts from Finnish construction companies and the ChatGPT AI model utilizing anonymous peer reviews. It focuses primarily on the areas of risk identification, analysis, and control. ChatGPT has demonstrated a superior ability to generate comprehensive risk management plans, with its quantitative scores significantly surpassing the human average. Nonetheless, the AI model's strategies are found to lack practicality and specificity, areas where human expertise excels. This study marks a significant advancement in construction project risk management research by conducting a pioneering blind-review study that assesses the capabilities of the advanced AI model, GPT-4, against those of human experts. Emphasizing the evolution from earlier GPT models, this research not only underscores the innovative application of ChatGPT-4 but also the critical role of anonymized peer evaluations in enhancing the objectivity of findings. It illuminates the synergistic potential of AI and human expertise, advocating for a collaborative model where AI serves as an augmentative tool, thereby optimizing human performance in identifying and managing risks.Can ChatGPT exceed humans in construction project risk management?
Roope Nyqvist, Antti Peltokorpi, Olli Seppänen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.223-243

The objective of this research is to investigate the capabilities of the ChatGPT GPT-4 model, a form of artificial intelligence (AI), in comparison to human experts in the context of construction project risk management.

Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study draws a qualitative and quantitative comparison between 16 human risk management experts from Finnish construction companies and the ChatGPT AI model utilizing anonymous peer reviews. It focuses primarily on the areas of risk identification, analysis, and control.

ChatGPT has demonstrated a superior ability to generate comprehensive risk management plans, with its quantitative scores significantly surpassing the human average. Nonetheless, the AI model's strategies are found to lack practicality and specificity, areas where human expertise excels.

This study marks a significant advancement in construction project risk management research by conducting a pioneering blind-review study that assesses the capabilities of the advanced AI model, GPT-4, against those of human experts. Emphasizing the evolution from earlier GPT models, this research not only underscores the innovative application of ChatGPT-4 but also the critical role of anonymized peer evaluations in enhancing the objectivity of findings. It illuminates the synergistic potential of AI and human expertise, advocating for a collaborative model where AI serves as an augmentative tool, thereby optimizing human performance in identifying and managing risks.

]]>
Can ChatGPT exceed humans in construction project risk management?10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0819Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-25© 2024 Roope Nyqvist, Antti Peltokorpi and Olli SeppänenRoope NyqvistAntti PeltokorpiOlli SeppänenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132024-03-2510.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0819https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0819/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Roope Nyqvist, Antti Peltokorpi and Olli Seppänenhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Evaluating the impact of material service life on embodied energy of residential villas in the United Arab Emirateshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0514/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestRecently, there has been a shift toward the embodied energy assessment of buildings. However, the impact of material service life on the life-cycle embodied energy has received little attention. We aimed to address this knowledge gap, particularly in the context of the UAE and investigated the embodied energy associated with the use of concrete and other materials commonly used in residential buildings in the hot desert climate of the UAE. Using input–output based hybrid analysis, we quantified the life-cycle embodied energy of a villa in the UAE with over 50 years of building life using the average, minimum, and maximum material service life values. Mathematical calculations were performed using MS Excel, and a detailed bill of quantities with >170 building materials and components of the villa were used for investigation. For the base case, the initial embodied energy was 57% (7390.5 GJ), whereas the recurrent embodied energy was 43% (5,690 GJ) of the life-cycle embodied energy based on average material service life values. The proportion of the recurrent embodied energy with minimum material service life values was increased to 68% of the life-cycle embodied energy, while it dropped to 15% with maximum material service life values. The findings provide new data to guide building construction in the UAE and show that recurrent embodied energy contributes significantly to life-cycle energy demand. Further, the study of material service life variations provides deeper insights into future building material specifications and management considerations for building maintenance.Evaluating the impact of material service life on embodied energy of residential villas in the United Arab Emirates
Abdul Rauf, Daniel Efurosibina Attoye, Robert H. Crawford
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 31, No. 13, pp.244-270

Recently, there has been a shift toward the embodied energy assessment of buildings. However, the impact of material service life on the life-cycle embodied energy has received little attention. We aimed to address this knowledge gap, particularly in the context of the UAE and investigated the embodied energy associated with the use of concrete and other materials commonly used in residential buildings in the hot desert climate of the UAE.

Using input–output based hybrid analysis, we quantified the life-cycle embodied energy of a villa in the UAE with over 50 years of building life using the average, minimum, and maximum material service life values. Mathematical calculations were performed using MS Excel, and a detailed bill of quantities with >170 building materials and components of the villa were used for investigation.

For the base case, the initial embodied energy was 57% (7390.5 GJ), whereas the recurrent embodied energy was 43% (5,690 GJ) of the life-cycle embodied energy based on average material service life values. The proportion of the recurrent embodied energy with minimum material service life values was increased to 68% of the life-cycle embodied energy, while it dropped to 15% with maximum material service life values.

The findings provide new data to guide building construction in the UAE and show that recurrent embodied energy contributes significantly to life-cycle energy demand. Further, the study of material service life variations provides deeper insights into future building material specifications and management considerations for building maintenance.

]]>
Evaluating the impact of material service life on embodied energy of residential villas in the United Arab Emirates10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0514Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-22© 2024 Abdul Rauf, Daniel Efurosibina Attoye and Robert H. CrawfordAbdul RaufDaniel Efurosibina AttoyeRobert H. CrawfordEngineering, Construction and Architectural Management31132024-03-2210.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0514https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0514/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Abdul Rauf, Daniel Efurosibina Attoye and Robert H. Crawfordhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
Digitalization, BIM ecosystem, and the future of built environmenthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2018-0004/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to conduct a critical analysis of the commonly projected visions on the future of built environment, focusing on transformative research. The primary question is will the construction sector be able to make the projected transformative leap even if the history of technology adoption in construction suggests otherwise? And, what role can academic research play? This paper is based on a reflective research and qualitative review of academic articles, white papers and reported projections for the future of construction. The reflections are based on discussions with colleagues and students, including thought experiments. There is a general agreement across various sources about the key technical and social drivers for the future of construction. However, these projections seem to be emanating from industry insiders, and more diversity and creativity is needed in exploring alternative possibilities. The paper should be useful for researchers in assessing their research strategy, especially those aiming to focus on the future of construction and transformative research. The findings of this paper suggest the need for collaboration and explorations with diverse disciplines, including those that may not appear immediately connected to digital construction. The paper should be useful for individuals and organizations, especially start-ups that are seeking novel opportunities to disrupt the future of construction. The originality and value of this research lies in a timely critique of the commonly projected trends in the future of digital construction. The use of reflective research and thought experiments emphasizes the need for divergent thinking and creative research methods in construction research.Digitalization, BIM ecosystem, and the future of built environment
Vishal Singh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a critical analysis of the commonly projected visions on the future of built environment, focusing on transformative research. The primary question is will the construction sector be able to make the projected transformative leap even if the history of technology adoption in construction suggests otherwise? And, what role can academic research play?

This paper is based on a reflective research and qualitative review of academic articles, white papers and reported projections for the future of construction. The reflections are based on discussions with colleagues and students, including thought experiments.

There is a general agreement across various sources about the key technical and social drivers for the future of construction. However, these projections seem to be emanating from industry insiders, and more diversity and creativity is needed in exploring alternative possibilities.

The paper should be useful for researchers in assessing their research strategy, especially those aiming to focus on the future of construction and transformative research. The findings of this paper suggest the need for collaboration and explorations with diverse disciplines, including those that may not appear immediately connected to digital construction.

The paper should be useful for individuals and organizations, especially start-ups that are seeking novel opportunities to disrupt the future of construction.

The originality and value of this research lies in a timely critique of the commonly projected trends in the future of digital construction. The use of reflective research and thought experiments emphasizes the need for divergent thinking and creative research methods in construction research.

]]>
Digitalization, BIM ecosystem, and the future of built environment10.1108/ECAM-01-2018-0004Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2019-02-21© 2019 Emerald Publishing LimitedVishal SinghEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2019-02-2110.1108/ECAM-01-2018-0004https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2018-0004/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2019 Emerald Publishing Limited
BIM-enabled Kanban system in construction logistics for real-time demand reporting and pull replenishmenthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0036/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe unstable labor productivity and periodic planning method cause barriers to improving construction logistics management. This paper aims to explore a demand-driven mechanism for efficient construction logistics planning to record the material consumption, report the real-time demand and trigger material replenishment from off-site to on-site, which is aided by Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the Kanban technique. This paper follows the design science research (DSR) principles to propose a system of designing and applying Kanban batch with 4D BIM for construction logistics planning and monitoring. Prototype development with comparative simulation experiments of a river remediation project is conducted to analyze the conventional and Kanban-triggered supply. Two-staged industrial interviews are conducted to guide and evaluate the system design. The proposed BIM-enabled Kanban system enables construction managers and suppliers to better set integrated on- and off-site targets, report real-time demands and conduct collaborative planning and monitoring. The simulation results present significant site storage and schedule savings applying the BIM-enabled Kanban system. Feedback and constructive suggestions from practitioners are collected via interviews and analyzed for further development. This paper brings to the limelight the benefits of implementing BIM-enabled demand-driven replenishment to remove waste from the material flow. This paper combines lean production theory with advanced information technology to solve construction logistics management problems.BIM-enabled Kanban system in construction logistics for real-time demand reporting and pull replenishment
Ningshuang Zeng, Xuling Ye, Yan Liu, Markus König
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The unstable labor productivity and periodic planning method cause barriers to improving construction logistics management. This paper aims to explore a demand-driven mechanism for efficient construction logistics planning to record the material consumption, report the real-time demand and trigger material replenishment from off-site to on-site, which is aided by Building Information Modeling (BIM) and the Kanban technique.

This paper follows the design science research (DSR) principles to propose a system of designing and applying Kanban batch with 4D BIM for construction logistics planning and monitoring. Prototype development with comparative simulation experiments of a river remediation project is conducted to analyze the conventional and Kanban-triggered supply. Two-staged industrial interviews are conducted to guide and evaluate the system design.

The proposed BIM-enabled Kanban system enables construction managers and suppliers to better set integrated on- and off-site targets, report real-time demands and conduct collaborative planning and monitoring. The simulation results present significant site storage and schedule savings applying the BIM-enabled Kanban system. Feedback and constructive suggestions from practitioners are collected via interviews and analyzed for further development.

This paper brings to the limelight the benefits of implementing BIM-enabled demand-driven replenishment to remove waste from the material flow. This paper combines lean production theory with advanced information technology to solve construction logistics management problems.

]]>
BIM-enabled Kanban system in construction logistics for real-time demand reporting and pull replenishment10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0036Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNingshuang ZengXuling YeYan LiuMarkus KönigEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-0610.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0036https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0036/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The demand hierarchy of the government and investors in PPP projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0052/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper aims to determine the demand category and level of government and investors in public–private partnership (PPP) projects. It emphasizes the importance of meeting the demands of stakeholders and controlling the unreasonable demands. This study aims to improve the demand management of stakeholders in the PPP project and lay a foundation for the research on behavior based on the motivation theory. This paper opted for a questionnaire survey to collect data based on indicators identified through literature. The participants come from the government and private sector (investors, contractors, operators, etc.) in China PPP Lecture Hall. The reliability, validity and variance analyses are used to test the reliability of data. Factor analysis and entropy method are used to determine demand categories and weights. The government’s 14 demands are divided into four groups: satisfy public activities, self-interest, responsibility and relief financial pressure; 6 investor's demands are divided into development ability and satisfy social activities. The self-interest of government is higher than that of the publicity in PPP projects; investor's social reputation is most important, it is a foundation for obtaining external resources and achieving enterprise development. Because of the chosen research approach, the demand indexes cannot be exhausted. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to enrich relevant contents further. This paper includes implications for a targeted demand control mechanism and for managing the unreasonable demand. This paper comprehensively identifies the demand hierarchy of the government and investors, and provides the theoretical basis for the target management of stakeholders.The demand hierarchy of the government and investors in PPP projects
Jiaqi Liu, Jicai Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper aims to determine the demand category and level of government and investors in public–private partnership (PPP) projects. It emphasizes the importance of meeting the demands of stakeholders and controlling the unreasonable demands. This study aims to improve the demand management of stakeholders in the PPP project and lay a foundation for the research on behavior based on the motivation theory.

This paper opted for a questionnaire survey to collect data based on indicators identified through literature. The participants come from the government and private sector (investors, contractors, operators, etc.) in China PPP Lecture Hall. The reliability, validity and variance analyses are used to test the reliability of data. Factor analysis and entropy method are used to determine demand categories and weights.

The government’s 14 demands are divided into four groups: satisfy public activities, self-interest, responsibility and relief financial pressure; 6 investor's demands are divided into development ability and satisfy social activities. The self-interest of government is higher than that of the publicity in PPP projects; investor's social reputation is most important, it is a foundation for obtaining external resources and achieving enterprise development.

Because of the chosen research approach, the demand indexes cannot be exhausted. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to enrich relevant contents further.

This paper includes implications for a targeted demand control mechanism and for managing the unreasonable demand.

This paper comprehensively identifies the demand hierarchy of the government and investors, and provides the theoretical basis for the target management of stakeholders.

]]>
The demand hierarchy of the government and investors in PPP projects10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0052Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-28© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedJiaqi LiuJicai LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2810.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0052https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0052/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
A Bayesian network for selecting improvement management tools to increase customer satisfaction in the construction industry: case study of Mexicohttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0089/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe use of improvement tools in the construction sector has shown to be an important determinant of quality. Companies endeavoring to enhance their daily practices require assistance, evidence, standards, frameworks and quantitative models from existing experts to help them set out for the road. This paper is aimed to assist construction managers in the selection of tools to increase customer satisfaction. This piece of research is based on the results of a previous empirical study on the use, within a sample of Mexican firms, of a set of more than 30 tools. It then proposes a Bayesian network (BN) to select them. By analyzing the variables under study, it is possible to establish their interaction and dependencies. The resultant BN comprises 24 nodes, and it is useful for choosing some tools that help to increase customer satisfaction. Customers and their needs now have become more complicated and harder to meet than in the past. Then, the use of improvement tools that put quality at the heart of the management strategies is crucial for achieving customer satisfaction. In order to reduce prices, keep product quality and meet delivery times, these tools should be used on a daily basis. Along this line of thought, the overall results from the hypothetical scenarios explored in this were positive, reflecting the relevance of the proposed model. In particular, the use of tools for gathering customer needs, the utilization of technology and the implementation of a quality department are relevant for increasing customer satisfaction in the sector. The sample size could be further expanded. The customer satisfaction dimensions could be enhanced. While the sample in which the investigation is based could be expanded along with the number of variables and their states, the BN can help practitioners in the global construction industry to improve their quality practices, to foster loyalty and to grow revenues. Most of the research reported in the area of continuous improvement in construction focuses on qualitative considerations, and it is still scarce in terms of developing mathematical models for selecting existing tools and, ultimately, satisfying customer’s requirements. This investigation is aimed to bridge this gap in the literature.A Bayesian network for selecting improvement management tools to increase customer satisfaction in the construction industry: case study of Mexico
David Joaquín Delgado-Hernández, Ulises Jairo Palacios-Navarro
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The use of improvement tools in the construction sector has shown to be an important determinant of quality. Companies endeavoring to enhance their daily practices require assistance, evidence, standards, frameworks and quantitative models from existing experts to help them set out for the road. This paper is aimed to assist construction managers in the selection of tools to increase customer satisfaction.

This piece of research is based on the results of a previous empirical study on the use, within a sample of Mexican firms, of a set of more than 30 tools. It then proposes a Bayesian network (BN) to select them. By analyzing the variables under study, it is possible to establish their interaction and dependencies. The resultant BN comprises 24 nodes, and it is useful for choosing some tools that help to increase customer satisfaction.

Customers and their needs now have become more complicated and harder to meet than in the past. Then, the use of improvement tools that put quality at the heart of the management strategies is crucial for achieving customer satisfaction. In order to reduce prices, keep product quality and meet delivery times, these tools should be used on a daily basis. Along this line of thought, the overall results from the hypothetical scenarios explored in this were positive, reflecting the relevance of the proposed model. In particular, the use of tools for gathering customer needs, the utilization of technology and the implementation of a quality department are relevant for increasing customer satisfaction in the sector.

The sample size could be further expanded. The customer satisfaction dimensions could be enhanced.

While the sample in which the investigation is based could be expanded along with the number of variables and their states, the BN can help practitioners in the global construction industry to improve their quality practices, to foster loyalty and to grow revenues.

Most of the research reported in the area of continuous improvement in construction focuses on qualitative considerations, and it is still scarce in terms of developing mathematical models for selecting existing tools and, ultimately, satisfying customer’s requirements. This investigation is aimed to bridge this gap in the literature.

]]>
A Bayesian network for selecting improvement management tools to increase customer satisfaction in the construction industry: case study of Mexico10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0089Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDavid Joaquín Delgado-HernándezUlises Jairo Palacios-NavarroEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0089https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2022-0089/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Managing risks in IPD-ish projects: experience from Hong Konghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0007/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIntegrated project delivery (IPD) project that does not use multiparty agreement is identified as IPD-ish. The use of IPD-ish arrangement by incorporating integration practices in conventional contract can be viewed as the part of the adoption process of IPD. Moreover, inappropriate integration practices invite new forms of risks and the absence of multiparty agreement adds to the challenges of risk management in IPD-ish projects. This study discusses such challenges and proposes the use of joint risk management to address the potential pitfalls in IPD-ish arrangement. A mixed research method was applied. First, the criticality of IPD-ish general and integration-specific risks was examined through a survey. Second, a real IPD-ish project was used to exemplify the use of joint risk management (JRM) to manage IPD-ish risks. Two types of risks, namely integration risks (IRs) and general risks (GRs), are identified in IPD-ish projects. Two major findings for the IRs: (1) the most critical IRs are related to unbalanced incentivization and inefficient multidisciplinary teams; and (2) only team formation related pre-contract JRM strategies affect IRs. As for the GRs, the most critical ones are associated with design issues and can be effectively mitigated by post-contract JRM. Using IPD-ish arrangement is an inevitable part of implementation of full IPD. This happens as many change-averse owners would like to test the integration principles using a conventional contract that they are familiar with. In fact, success in IPD-ish would pave the path for further adoption of IPD. This study offers insight into categorization of risks in IPD-ish projects. Appropriate use of post-contract and organization related pre-contract JRM would improve the chance of teasing out the values of IPD through IPD-ish arrangements. Care should be taken to introduce some contracting integration initiatives, such as risk/reward sharing incentive.Managing risks in IPD-ish projects: experience from Hong Kong
Qiuwen Ma, Sai On Cheung, Shan Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Integrated project delivery (IPD) project that does not use multiparty agreement is identified as IPD-ish. The use of IPD-ish arrangement by incorporating integration practices in conventional contract can be viewed as the part of the adoption process of IPD. Moreover, inappropriate integration practices invite new forms of risks and the absence of multiparty agreement adds to the challenges of risk management in IPD-ish projects. This study discusses such challenges and proposes the use of joint risk management to address the potential pitfalls in IPD-ish arrangement.

A mixed research method was applied. First, the criticality of IPD-ish general and integration-specific risks was examined through a survey. Second, a real IPD-ish project was used to exemplify the use of joint risk management (JRM) to manage IPD-ish risks.

Two types of risks, namely integration risks (IRs) and general risks (GRs), are identified in IPD-ish projects. Two major findings for the IRs: (1) the most critical IRs are related to unbalanced incentivization and inefficient multidisciplinary teams; and (2) only team formation related pre-contract JRM strategies affect IRs. As for the GRs, the most critical ones are associated with design issues and can be effectively mitigated by post-contract JRM.

Using IPD-ish arrangement is an inevitable part of implementation of full IPD. This happens as many change-averse owners would like to test the integration principles using a conventional contract that they are familiar with. In fact, success in IPD-ish would pave the path for further adoption of IPD. This study offers insight into categorization of risks in IPD-ish projects. Appropriate use of post-contract and organization related pre-contract JRM would improve the chance of teasing out the values of IPD through IPD-ish arrangements. Care should be taken to introduce some contracting integration initiatives, such as risk/reward sharing incentive.

]]>
Managing risks in IPD-ish projects: experience from Hong Kong10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0007Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedQiuwen MaSai On CheungShan LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-0310.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0007https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0007/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Anatomy of interactions among risk factors influencing implementation of building information modeling (BIM): a system dynamics approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0011/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe overarching objective of this paper is to examine the cause–effect relationships among building and information modeling (BIM)-related risk factors and their impact on the implementation of BIM in construction projects. This paper draws on previous research to identify and categorize BIM-related risk factors. It then develops a system dynamics (SD) model to examine the cause–effect relationships among these factors leading to issues in BIM implementation. The proposed SD model illustrates how nine reinforcing feedback loops provide connections between four categories of risks, namely, technical, information, legal and organizational risks and, consequently, create vicious cycles that threaten the successful implementation of BIM. This paper is among a few studies that depart from reductionism by taking a holistic approach and demonstrating how the interactions between BIM-related risk factors lead to vicious cycles that threaten the successful implementation of BIM.Anatomy of interactions among risk factors influencing implementation of building information modeling (BIM): a system dynamics approach
Seyed Ashkan Zarghami
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The overarching objective of this paper is to examine the cause–effect relationships among building and information modeling (BIM)-related risk factors and their impact on the implementation of BIM in construction projects.

This paper draws on previous research to identify and categorize BIM-related risk factors. It then develops a system dynamics (SD) model to examine the cause–effect relationships among these factors leading to issues in BIM implementation.

The proposed SD model illustrates how nine reinforcing feedback loops provide connections between four categories of risks, namely, technical, information, legal and organizational risks and, consequently, create vicious cycles that threaten the successful implementation of BIM.

This paper is among a few studies that depart from reductionism by taking a holistic approach and demonstrating how the interactions between BIM-related risk factors lead to vicious cycles that threaten the successful implementation of BIM.

]]>
Anatomy of interactions among risk factors influencing implementation of building information modeling (BIM): a system dynamics approach10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0011Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSeyed Ashkan ZarghamiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-0810.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0011https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0011/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A knowledge framework for blockchain-enabled smart contract adoption in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0012/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestA novel facet of the construction industry's (CI) digital transformation relates to the rise of smart contracts, and the contribution of blockchain technology in this domain appears to be nascent but rapidly gaining traction. Although the benefits of digitalisation for technologically less enthusiastic CI are irrefutable, the adoption of smart contracts has been found to be low pertaining to industry professionals' behavioural factors stimulated by technological perception. The challenge undertook by this study, therefore, is to develop a knowledge framework for blockchain-enabled smart contract adoption in the CI. From a methodological perspective, this study employed a qualitative approach that involved semi-structured interviews with ten (10) highly experienced CI practitioners involved in digital innovations for data collection. Directed content analysis was performed using NVivo 12 software, which enabled the creation of preliminary open codes. Subsequently, these open codes were grouped into similar categories to develop axial codes. Finally, the study presented final themes along with their corresponding descriptions. Notably, research findings expanded the current body of knowledge on perceived attributes and their measurement items to determine the perception of innovation adoption in CI, where a total of nine (9) perceived attributes were associated with thirty-two (32) measurement items. The measurement items were seen as having an extensive impact on the CI professionals' decision to adopt blockchain-enabled smart contracts. With ensuing implications, this study represents one of the first to present a knowledge framework exclusively customised for blockchain-enabled smart contracts, laying the groundwork for effective technological adoption by CI professionals.A knowledge framework for blockchain-enabled smart contract adoption in the construction industry
Umesha Sasanthi Weerapperuma, Akila Pramodh Rathnasinghe, Himal Suranga Jayasena, Chamitha Sanjani Wijewickrama, Niraj Thurairajah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

A novel facet of the construction industry's (CI) digital transformation relates to the rise of smart contracts, and the contribution of blockchain technology in this domain appears to be nascent but rapidly gaining traction. Although the benefits of digitalisation for technologically less enthusiastic CI are irrefutable, the adoption of smart contracts has been found to be low pertaining to industry professionals' behavioural factors stimulated by technological perception. The challenge undertook by this study, therefore, is to develop a knowledge framework for blockchain-enabled smart contract adoption in the CI.

From a methodological perspective, this study employed a qualitative approach that involved semi-structured interviews with ten (10) highly experienced CI practitioners involved in digital innovations for data collection. Directed content analysis was performed using NVivo 12 software, which enabled the creation of preliminary open codes. Subsequently, these open codes were grouped into similar categories to develop axial codes. Finally, the study presented final themes along with their corresponding descriptions.

Notably, research findings expanded the current body of knowledge on perceived attributes and their measurement items to determine the perception of innovation adoption in CI, where a total of nine (9) perceived attributes were associated with thirty-two (32) measurement items.

The measurement items were seen as having an extensive impact on the CI professionals' decision to adopt blockchain-enabled smart contracts. With ensuing implications, this study represents one of the first to present a knowledge framework exclusively customised for blockchain-enabled smart contracts, laying the groundwork for effective technological adoption by CI professionals.

]]>
A knowledge framework for blockchain-enabled smart contract adoption in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0012Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedUmesha Sasanthi WeerapperumaAkila Pramodh RathnasingheHimal Suranga JayasenaChamitha Sanjani WijewickramaNiraj ThurairajahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2010.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0012https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0012/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A systematic review of artificial intelligence in managing climate risks of PPP infrastructure projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0016/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestRecent United Nations Climate Change Conferences recognise extreme climate change of heatwaves, floods and droughts as threatening risks to the resilience and success of public–private partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects. Such conferences together with available project reports and empirical studies recommend project managers and practitioners to adopt smart technologies and develop robust measures to tackle climate risk exposure. Comparatively, artificial intelligence (AI) risk management tools are better to mitigate climate risk, but it has been inadequately explored in the PPP sector. Thus, this study aims to explore the tools and roles of AI in climate risk management of PPP infrastructure projects. Systematically, this study compiles and analyses 36 peer-reviewed journal articles sourced from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and PubMed. The results demonstrate deep learning, building information modelling, robotic automations, remote sensors and fuzzy logic as major key AI-based risk models (tools) for PPP infrastructures. The roles of AI in climate risk management of PPPs include risk detection, analysis, controls and prediction. For researchers, the findings provide relevant guide for further investigations into AI and climate risks within the PPP research domain. This article highlights the AI tools in mitigating climate crisis in PPP infrastructure management. This article provides strong arguments for the utilisation of AI in understanding and managing numerous challenges related to climate change in PPP infrastructure projects.A systematic review of artificial intelligence in managing climate risks of PPP infrastructure projects
Isaac Akomea-Frimpong, Jacinta Rejoice Ama Delali Dzagli, Kenneth Eluerkeh, Franklina Boakyewaa Bonsu, Sabastina Opoku-Brafi, Samuel Gyimah, Nana Ama Sika Asuming, David Wireko Atibila, Augustine Senanu Kukah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Recent United Nations Climate Change Conferences recognise extreme climate change of heatwaves, floods and droughts as threatening risks to the resilience and success of public–private partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects. Such conferences together with available project reports and empirical studies recommend project managers and practitioners to adopt smart technologies and develop robust measures to tackle climate risk exposure. Comparatively, artificial intelligence (AI) risk management tools are better to mitigate climate risk, but it has been inadequately explored in the PPP sector. Thus, this study aims to explore the tools and roles of AI in climate risk management of PPP infrastructure projects.

Systematically, this study compiles and analyses 36 peer-reviewed journal articles sourced from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and PubMed.

The results demonstrate deep learning, building information modelling, robotic automations, remote sensors and fuzzy logic as major key AI-based risk models (tools) for PPP infrastructures. The roles of AI in climate risk management of PPPs include risk detection, analysis, controls and prediction.

For researchers, the findings provide relevant guide for further investigations into AI and climate risks within the PPP research domain.

This article highlights the AI tools in mitigating climate crisis in PPP infrastructure management.

This article provides strong arguments for the utilisation of AI in understanding and managing numerous challenges related to climate change in PPP infrastructure projects.

]]>
A systematic review of artificial intelligence in managing climate risks of PPP infrastructure projects10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0016Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-25© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedIsaac Akomea-FrimpongJacinta Rejoice Ama Delali DzagliKenneth EluerkehFranklina Boakyewaa BonsuSabastina Opoku-BrafiSamuel GyimahNana Ama Sika AsumingDavid Wireko AtibilaAugustine Senanu KukahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2510.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0016https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0016/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Prioritizing the survival determinants of quantity surveying firms in economic contractionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0024/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMicro, small and medium-sized enterprises are the live wire of construction industry in developing countries. These classes of establishments are most affected by economic contraction and turmoil, thus affecting their performance and survivability. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate and prioritize the survival determinants of construction consulting organization during economic contraction in Nigeria using quantity surveying firms as a focal point. The study adopted the descriptive-survey design and quantitative data were collected through questionnaire purposely administered to quantity surveying firms in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. The data obtained from 99 quantity surveying firms on survival determinants were analysed using various statistical analysis such as mean score, standard deviation, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and so on. Principal component analysis was used to identify the principal components of survival determinants, while the factors were prioritized using fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE). The result of the analysis reveals eight factors that significantly determines the survival of firms during the period of economic contraction. Furthermore, the eight grouped factors were prioritized accordingly namely firm's innovation and diversification, ownership structure and networking, education level and management skills, and so on. This study investigated the survival determinants of quantity surveying firms and prioritized it with the opinions of principal partners in quantity surveying establishments. As against obtaining large survey responses from all quantity surveyors in the study area that may not have practical experience of managing firms, the limited responses received provide valid basis to broaden the horizon of professionals and other stakeholders on the key determinants for firms to survive economic turmoil. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing information on prioritized factors that must be considered in an appropriate order by quantity surveying firms to survive economic contraction.Prioritizing the survival determinants of quantity surveying firms in economic contraction
Dorcas Moyanga, Lekan Damilola Ojo, Oluseyi Alabi Awodele, Deji Rufus Ogunsemi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are the live wire of construction industry in developing countries. These classes of establishments are most affected by economic contraction and turmoil, thus affecting their performance and survivability. Hence, the purpose of this study is to investigate and prioritize the survival determinants of construction consulting organization during economic contraction in Nigeria using quantity surveying firms as a focal point.

The study adopted the descriptive-survey design and quantitative data were collected through questionnaire purposely administered to quantity surveying firms in the Southwestern part of Nigeria. The data obtained from 99 quantity surveying firms on survival determinants were analysed using various statistical analysis such as mean score, standard deviation, Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, and so on. Principal component analysis was used to identify the principal components of survival determinants, while the factors were prioritized using fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE).

The result of the analysis reveals eight factors that significantly determines the survival of firms during the period of economic contraction. Furthermore, the eight grouped factors were prioritized accordingly namely firm's innovation and diversification, ownership structure and networking, education level and management skills, and so on.

This study investigated the survival determinants of quantity surveying firms and prioritized it with the opinions of principal partners in quantity surveying establishments. As against obtaining large survey responses from all quantity surveyors in the study area that may not have practical experience of managing firms, the limited responses received provide valid basis to broaden the horizon of professionals and other stakeholders on the key determinants for firms to survive economic turmoil.

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by providing information on prioritized factors that must be considered in an appropriate order by quantity surveying firms to survive economic contraction.

]]>
Prioritizing the survival determinants of quantity surveying firms in economic contraction10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0024Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDorcas MoyangaLekan Damilola OjoOluseyi Alabi AwodeleDeji Rufus OgunsemiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-1810.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0024https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0024/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
What are the key factors of enterprises' greenwashing behaviors under multi-agent interaction? A grey-DEMATEL analysis from Chinese construction materials enterpriseshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0027/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe surging market demand for green construction materials has brought opportunities for construction materials enterprises' greenwashing behavior (GWB). This study aims to establish the causal relationship among the influencing factors of GWB and reveal the key influencing factors from the perspective of Chinese construction materials enterprises under multi-agent interactions. This study is based on stakeholder theory, resource-based theory and the green development behavior and performance of industrial enterprises (GDBP-IE). First, with the literature analysis, an index framework of the influencing factors of enterprises' GWB was constructed from five dimensions (including 15 factors): environmental regulation, public scrutiny, market environment, corporate resources and corporate green development (GD) performance. Second, the interactive relationship among influencing factors was obtained by a questionnaire survey. Finally, the data are processed and analyzed with the grey-DEMATEL (Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) method. Among the factors, corporate information transparency has the greatest impact on the other factors, and consumer green preferences are most influenced by others. The most critical and important factor is the corporate social performance factor. In China, corporate social performance, corporate information transparency, corporate size and media supervision are the key factors influencing the GWB of construction materials enterprises. This study provides a new perspective on the literature related to GWB by considering multi-agent interactions and extends the evidence from the construction materials industry for research on the drivers or influencing factors of enterprises' bad environmental behavior. Furthermore, it adds insights from China for further research on the governance strategies of GWB in other countries.What are the key factors of enterprises' greenwashing behaviors under multi-agent interaction? A grey-DEMATEL analysis from Chinese construction materials enterprises
Xingwei Li, Jingru Li, Jinrong He, Yicheng Huang, Xiang Liu, Jiachi Dai, Qiong Shen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The surging market demand for green construction materials has brought opportunities for construction materials enterprises' greenwashing behavior (GWB). This study aims to establish the causal relationship among the influencing factors of GWB and reveal the key influencing factors from the perspective of Chinese construction materials enterprises under multi-agent interactions.

This study is based on stakeholder theory, resource-based theory and the green development behavior and performance of industrial enterprises (GDBP-IE). First, with the literature analysis, an index framework of the influencing factors of enterprises' GWB was constructed from five dimensions (including 15 factors): environmental regulation, public scrutiny, market environment, corporate resources and corporate green development (GD) performance. Second, the interactive relationship among influencing factors was obtained by a questionnaire survey. Finally, the data are processed and analyzed with the grey-DEMATEL (Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) method.

Among the factors, corporate information transparency has the greatest impact on the other factors, and consumer green preferences are most influenced by others. The most critical and important factor is the corporate social performance factor. In China, corporate social performance, corporate information transparency, corporate size and media supervision are the key factors influencing the GWB of construction materials enterprises.

This study provides a new perspective on the literature related to GWB by considering multi-agent interactions and extends the evidence from the construction materials industry for research on the drivers or influencing factors of enterprises' bad environmental behavior. Furthermore, it adds insights from China for further research on the governance strategies of GWB in other countries.

]]>
What are the key factors of enterprises' greenwashing behaviors under multi-agent interaction? A grey-DEMATEL analysis from Chinese construction materials enterprises10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0027Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXingwei LiJingru LiJinrong HeYicheng HuangXiang LiuJiachi DaiQiong ShenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2910.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0027https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0027/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Interregional migration of construction workers in China: roles of employment opportunities and environment amenitieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0029/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWithin the labor-intensive construction industry characterized by distinctly structural shortages in the labor force worldwide, efficient and effective migration of construction workers across regions is critical for the smooth operation of construction activities. This study aims to investigate how the interregional migration patterns of construction workers are impacted by the disparities in both employment opportunities and environment amenities between the origin and destination provinces. Drawing on the push and pull theory and the archival data on 13,728 migrant construction workers in China, descriptive analyses are first performed to characterize the interregional migration patterns of the investigated construction workers. Combining regional data in the National Bureau of Statistics of China, this study uses hierarchical regression modeling techniques to empirically test the relative importance of the employment-related and environment-related factors in driving the interregional migration of construction workers after controlling for the effects of related economic and geographic factors. The results provide evidence that the interregional migration of construction workers is principally driven by the disparities in employment opportunities while disparities in environment amenities (including climate comfort disparity, medical service disparity and educational service disparity) generally play much fewer substantive roles. With regard to the impacts of employment opportunities, the results provide evidence that compared with the disparity in job market size, the disparities in job income and industry development level are more significantly relevant factors, which positively pull and adversely push the interregional migration flows, respectively. This study contributes to a deepened understanding of how workers specifically balance their employment and amenity needs to make temporary migration decisions in the “laggard” labor-intensive construction industry. This study also adds to the literature on population migration by characterizing the specific characteristics of construction workers and the temporary nature of the workers' migration activities. The findings hold important practical implications for construction organizations and policymakers for effectively managing the mobility of migrant construction workers. The extant literature on migrant construction workers has primarily focused on the consequences of international migration and the generalization of empirical findings on population migration mechanisms in other domains to the construction industry is substantially limited by the specific characteristics of construction workers and the temporary nature of their migration activities. In addressing this gap, this study represents an exploratory effort to quantitatively characterize the interregional migration patterns of construction workers in the labor-intensive construction industry and examines the roles of employment opportunity and environmental amenity in driving interregional migration.Interregional migration of construction workers in China: roles of employment opportunities and environment amenities
Hanyue Yang, Heng Li, Guangbin Wang, Dongping Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Within the labor-intensive construction industry characterized by distinctly structural shortages in the labor force worldwide, efficient and effective migration of construction workers across regions is critical for the smooth operation of construction activities. This study aims to investigate how the interregional migration patterns of construction workers are impacted by the disparities in both employment opportunities and environment amenities between the origin and destination provinces.

Drawing on the push and pull theory and the archival data on 13,728 migrant construction workers in China, descriptive analyses are first performed to characterize the interregional migration patterns of the investigated construction workers. Combining regional data in the National Bureau of Statistics of China, this study uses hierarchical regression modeling techniques to empirically test the relative importance of the employment-related and environment-related factors in driving the interregional migration of construction workers after controlling for the effects of related economic and geographic factors.

The results provide evidence that the interregional migration of construction workers is principally driven by the disparities in employment opportunities while disparities in environment amenities (including climate comfort disparity, medical service disparity and educational service disparity) generally play much fewer substantive roles. With regard to the impacts of employment opportunities, the results provide evidence that compared with the disparity in job market size, the disparities in job income and industry development level are more significantly relevant factors, which positively pull and adversely push the interregional migration flows, respectively.

This study contributes to a deepened understanding of how workers specifically balance their employment and amenity needs to make temporary migration decisions in the “laggard” labor-intensive construction industry. This study also adds to the literature on population migration by characterizing the specific characteristics of construction workers and the temporary nature of the workers' migration activities. The findings hold important practical implications for construction organizations and policymakers for effectively managing the mobility of migrant construction workers.

The extant literature on migrant construction workers has primarily focused on the consequences of international migration and the generalization of empirical findings on population migration mechanisms in other domains to the construction industry is substantially limited by the specific characteristics of construction workers and the temporary nature of their migration activities. In addressing this gap, this study represents an exploratory effort to quantitatively characterize the interregional migration patterns of construction workers in the labor-intensive construction industry and examines the roles of employment opportunity and environmental amenity in driving interregional migration.

]]>
Interregional migration of construction workers in China: roles of employment opportunities and environment amenities10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0029Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHanyue YangHeng LiGuangbin WangDongping CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0410.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0029https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0029/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The impact of autonomy on sustainable performance in foreign subsidiaries: an empirical study from Chinese construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0030/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestForeign construction subsidiaries play an important role in the global construction market. How to establish and maintain long-term sustainable performance has attracted increased attention, but only a few studies have considered this issue. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between autonomy and the sustainable performance of subsidiaries and to provide support for their management control modes. From an institutional logics perspective, empirical research using a questionnaire survey was conducted following the methodological framework of this study. Relevant data were collected from 106 experienced managers of foreign construction subsidiaries, and the hypotheses were tested through a regression model. The results show that foreign construction subsidiaries have a high degree of operational autonomy, which tends to strengthen their embeddedness in the host country and improve their sustainable performance. However, the role of strategic autonomy is not found to be significant. The moderation results show that the positive impact between operational autonomy and external network embeddedness is strengthened by institutional distance. Institutional distance has no significant moderating impact on the relationship between strategic autonomy and external network embeddedness, respectively. Geographical limitations may exist as the survey is focused on the Chinese construction foreign subsidiaries. However, based on an institutional logics perspective, this study discusses the management control mode of foreign subsidiaries, which enriches the antecedents of sustainable performance and can provide an in-depth explanation of the effects of the organizational strategies of multinational construction enterprises. This study provides beneficial information for the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. It will provide detailed guidance to managers located in different institutional environments on optimally promoting the sustainable development of subsidiaries. This study identifies autonomy as an important antecedent, making it one of the first studies investigating autonomy on the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. The findings of this study can contribute to the construction subsidiaries' sustainable performance literature and provide novel, comprehensive knowledge for academia and practice.The impact of autonomy on sustainable performance in foreign subsidiaries: an empirical study from Chinese construction industry
Junying Liu, Ying Wang, Xueyao Du
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Foreign construction subsidiaries play an important role in the global construction market. How to establish and maintain long-term sustainable performance has attracted increased attention, but only a few studies have considered this issue. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between autonomy and the sustainable performance of subsidiaries and to provide support for their management control modes.

From an institutional logics perspective, empirical research using a questionnaire survey was conducted following the methodological framework of this study. Relevant data were collected from 106 experienced managers of foreign construction subsidiaries, and the hypotheses were tested through a regression model.

The results show that foreign construction subsidiaries have a high degree of operational autonomy, which tends to strengthen their embeddedness in the host country and improve their sustainable performance. However, the role of strategic autonomy is not found to be significant. The moderation results show that the positive impact between operational autonomy and external network embeddedness is strengthened by institutional distance. Institutional distance has no significant moderating impact on the relationship between strategic autonomy and external network embeddedness, respectively.

Geographical limitations may exist as the survey is focused on the Chinese construction foreign subsidiaries. However, based on an institutional logics perspective, this study discusses the management control mode of foreign subsidiaries, which enriches the antecedents of sustainable performance and can provide an in-depth explanation of the effects of the organizational strategies of multinational construction enterprises.

This study provides beneficial information for the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. It will provide detailed guidance to managers located in different institutional environments on optimally promoting the sustainable development of subsidiaries.

This study identifies autonomy as an important antecedent, making it one of the first studies investigating autonomy on the sustainable performance of foreign construction subsidiaries. The findings of this study can contribute to the construction subsidiaries' sustainable performance literature and provide novel, comprehensive knowledge for academia and practice.

]]>
The impact of autonomy on sustainable performance in foreign subsidiaries: an empirical study from Chinese construction industry10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0030Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJunying LiuYing WangXueyao DuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-0610.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0030https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0030/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical factors influencing the internet of things technology adoption behavior of construction companies: evidence from Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0045/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestLimited use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology on construction sites has restricted its value in the construction industry. To propel its widespread application, this paper explores the influencing factors and action paths of construction companies' IoT technology adoption behavior. First, literature research, technology adoption theories, and semi-structured expert interviews were employed to build the adoption model. Second, a questionnaire survey was conducted among Chinese construction contractors to collect empirical data. Third, the structural equation model method and regression analysis were used to test the adoption model. Finally, the findings were further validated with interviews, case studies, and field observations. External environmental pressure (EEP), perceived benefit (PB), top management support (TMS), company resource readiness (CRR), adoption intention (AI), and perceived compatibility (PCA) have a direct positive impact on adoption behavior (AB). In contrast, perceived cost (PC) and perceived complexity (PCL) exert a direct negative impact on AB. The EEP, PB, and PC are critical factors affecting AB, whereas AI is strongly affected by CRR and TMS. Besides, AI plays a part mediating role in the relationship between seven factors and AB. Company size and nature positively moderate AI's positive effect on AB. This paper contributes to the knowledge of IoT technology adoption behavior in the construction sector by applying the technology adoption theories. Exploring the implementation barriers and drivers of IoT technology in construction sites from the perspective of organizational technology adoption behavior and introducing moderating variables to explain adoption behavior are innovations of this paper. The findings can help professionals better understand the IoT technology adoption barriers and enhance construction companies' adoption awareness, demand, and ability. This work also provides a reference for understanding the impact mechanism of the adoption behavior of other innovative technologies in construction.Critical factors influencing the internet of things technology adoption behavior of construction companies: evidence from China
Yaqi Zhao, Shengyue Hao, Zhen Chen, Xia Zhou, Lin Zhang, Zhaoyang Guo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Limited use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology on construction sites has restricted its value in the construction industry. To propel its widespread application, this paper explores the influencing factors and action paths of construction companies' IoT technology adoption behavior.

First, literature research, technology adoption theories, and semi-structured expert interviews were employed to build the adoption model. Second, a questionnaire survey was conducted among Chinese construction contractors to collect empirical data. Third, the structural equation model method and regression analysis were used to test the adoption model. Finally, the findings were further validated with interviews, case studies, and field observations.

External environmental pressure (EEP), perceived benefit (PB), top management support (TMS), company resource readiness (CRR), adoption intention (AI), and perceived compatibility (PCA) have a direct positive impact on adoption behavior (AB). In contrast, perceived cost (PC) and perceived complexity (PCL) exert a direct negative impact on AB. The EEP, PB, and PC are critical factors affecting AB, whereas AI is strongly affected by CRR and TMS. Besides, AI plays a part mediating role in the relationship between seven factors and AB. Company size and nature positively moderate AI's positive effect on AB.

This paper contributes to the knowledge of IoT technology adoption behavior in the construction sector by applying the technology adoption theories. Exploring the implementation barriers and drivers of IoT technology in construction sites from the perspective of organizational technology adoption behavior and introducing moderating variables to explain adoption behavior are innovations of this paper. The findings can help professionals better understand the IoT technology adoption barriers and enhance construction companies' adoption awareness, demand, and ability. This work also provides a reference for understanding the impact mechanism of the adoption behavior of other innovative technologies in construction.

]]>
Critical factors influencing the internet of things technology adoption behavior of construction companies: evidence from China10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0045Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-25© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYaqi ZhaoShengyue HaoZhen ChenXia ZhouLin ZhangZhaoyang GuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2510.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0045https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0045/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effect of emotional intelligence, motivation and job burnout on safety behaviors of construction workers: a case studyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0083/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGiven the cruciality of construction workers' safe behaviors, the possible influential factors on workers' behaviors should be studied, and one of these factors is characteristics. The authors identified emotional intelligence (EI), motivation and job burnout as characteristics that might affect a worker's safety behavior, and the aim of this study is to investigate these possible relationships. Workers' EI, motivation and job burnout status were assessed by a structured interview. Furthermore, workers' safety behaviors were assessed by a checklist derived from national codes, regulations and other research studies. Then, the researcher's observations took place, and the data were acquired. EI and motivation of workers were able to predict safety behaviors, and the effect of job burnout on safety behaviors was not significant. In addition, motivation's influence on job burnout was not significant. Therefore, in order to promote safety behaviors, the EI and motivation of workers need to be taken into consideration. The results indicate why construction managers should consider the workers' EI and motivation competencies and how this consideration could lead to safer and better performance in construction projects. The possible effects of EI, motivation and job burnout on the safety behaviors of construction workers haven't been paid enough attention. Moreover, the authors couldn't find a study similar to the present one that was conducted in Iran. Also, an original model was presented, and safety behaviors were studied through fieldwork rather than using questionnaires.The effect of emotional intelligence, motivation and job burnout on safety behaviors of construction workers: a case study
Parviz Ghoddousi, Ali Zamani
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Given the cruciality of construction workers' safe behaviors, the possible influential factors on workers' behaviors should be studied, and one of these factors is characteristics. The authors identified emotional intelligence (EI), motivation and job burnout as characteristics that might affect a worker's safety behavior, and the aim of this study is to investigate these possible relationships.

Workers' EI, motivation and job burnout status were assessed by a structured interview. Furthermore, workers' safety behaviors were assessed by a checklist derived from national codes, regulations and other research studies. Then, the researcher's observations took place, and the data were acquired.

EI and motivation of workers were able to predict safety behaviors, and the effect of job burnout on safety behaviors was not significant. In addition, motivation's influence on job burnout was not significant. Therefore, in order to promote safety behaviors, the EI and motivation of workers need to be taken into consideration.

The results indicate why construction managers should consider the workers' EI and motivation competencies and how this consideration could lead to safer and better performance in construction projects.

The possible effects of EI, motivation and job burnout on the safety behaviors of construction workers haven't been paid enough attention. Moreover, the authors couldn't find a study similar to the present one that was conducted in Iran. Also, an original model was presented, and safety behaviors were studied through fieldwork rather than using questionnaires.

]]>
The effect of emotional intelligence, motivation and job burnout on safety behaviors of construction workers: a case study10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0083Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedParviz GhoddousiAli ZamaniEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2910.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0083https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0083/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring the impact of incentive policy on the development of prefabricated buildings: a scenario-based system dynamics modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0084/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe development of prefabricated buildings has become one of the primary solutions to transform the traditional construction industry around the world. Incentive policy is one of the important driving factors for the development of prefabricated building. The policy system in the field of prefabricated buildings needs to be improved urgently. However, there is still a dearth of research on how incentive policies exert impact on the development of prefabricated buildings. This paper aims to reveal the impact mechanisms of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings. This study categorizes prefabricated building policies, constructs a system dynamics model of prefabricated building policies and conducts scenario simulations to examine the impact and sensitivity of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings. The results show that compulsory policies play a greater role in the early stage of prefabricated building development and need to be withdrawn at the right time. Preferential and encouraging policies play an incentive role in the middle and later stages of prefabricated building development. Encouraging policies predominate in the later stage of prefabricated building development. Based on the research results, policy recommendations for prefabricated building development are put forward respectively from the government, developers and consumers. The research results are expected to make up for the lack of clear policies paths in existing research and provide theoretical references for the formulation and optimization of future policies.Exploring the impact of incentive policy on the development of prefabricated buildings: a scenario-based system dynamics model
Yanhu Han, Xiao Fang, Xinyu Zhao, Lufan Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The development of prefabricated buildings has become one of the primary solutions to transform the traditional construction industry around the world. Incentive policy is one of the important driving factors for the development of prefabricated building. The policy system in the field of prefabricated buildings needs to be improved urgently. However, there is still a dearth of research on how incentive policies exert impact on the development of prefabricated buildings. This paper aims to reveal the impact mechanisms of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings.

This study categorizes prefabricated building policies, constructs a system dynamics model of prefabricated building policies and conducts scenario simulations to examine the impact and sensitivity of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings.

The results show that compulsory policies play a greater role in the early stage of prefabricated building development and need to be withdrawn at the right time. Preferential and encouraging policies play an incentive role in the middle and later stages of prefabricated building development. Encouraging policies predominate in the later stage of prefabricated building development. Based on the research results, policy recommendations for prefabricated building development are put forward respectively from the government, developers and consumers.

The research results are expected to make up for the lack of clear policies paths in existing research and provide theoretical references for the formulation and optimization of future policies.

]]>
Exploring the impact of incentive policy on the development of prefabricated buildings: a scenario-based system dynamics model10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0084Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYanhu HanXiao FangXinyu ZhaoLufan WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2910.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0084https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0084/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Organizational structure and dynamic capabilities on business model innovation in project-driven enterprises: evidence from the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0090/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestFlexibility and efficiency are dual attributes of the organizational structure that are crucial for project-driven enterprises to achieve sustainable development in a dynamic environment. However, there is a lack of research on the patterns by which the dual attributes of a project-driven enterprise’s organizational structure affect business model innovation. Employing organizational theory, this study aims to assess the mediating mechanisms and dynamic capabilities through which the dual attributes of the organizational structure influence business model innovation in project-driven enterprises. Data were collected from 242 employees from four project-driven companies across 26 cities (e.g. Beijing, Tianjin, Guangzhou and Shenzhen) in China. Structural equation modeling revealed the relationship between organizational structure’s dual attributes and business model innovation. The findings show that the dual attributes (flexibility and efficiency) of the organizational structure have positive impacts on business model innovation. Moreover, dynamic capabilities mediate the relationship between the dual attributes and business model innovation in project-driven enterprises. This study provides contributions to innovation research in the context of project-driven enterprises by revealing the influence of organizational structure on business model innovation through the firms’ dynamic capabilities. Such knowledge can enable managers of project-driven enterprises to develop effective interventions to promote business model innovation.Organizational structure and dynamic capabilities on business model innovation in project-driven enterprises: evidence from the construction industry
Dan Wang, Ruopeng Huang, Kaijian Li, Asheem Shrestha
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Flexibility and efficiency are dual attributes of the organizational structure that are crucial for project-driven enterprises to achieve sustainable development in a dynamic environment. However, there is a lack of research on the patterns by which the dual attributes of a project-driven enterprise’s organizational structure affect business model innovation. Employing organizational theory, this study aims to assess the mediating mechanisms and dynamic capabilities through which the dual attributes of the organizational structure influence business model innovation in project-driven enterprises.

Data were collected from 242 employees from four project-driven companies across 26 cities (e.g. Beijing, Tianjin, Guangzhou and Shenzhen) in China. Structural equation modeling revealed the relationship between organizational structure’s dual attributes and business model innovation.

The findings show that the dual attributes (flexibility and efficiency) of the organizational structure have positive impacts on business model innovation. Moreover, dynamic capabilities mediate the relationship between the dual attributes and business model innovation in project-driven enterprises.

This study provides contributions to innovation research in the context of project-driven enterprises by revealing the influence of organizational structure on business model innovation through the firms’ dynamic capabilities. Such knowledge can enable managers of project-driven enterprises to develop effective interventions to promote business model innovation.

]]>
Organizational structure and dynamic capabilities on business model innovation in project-driven enterprises: evidence from the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0090Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDan WangRuopeng HuangKaijian LiAsheem ShresthaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-0310.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0090https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2023-0090/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Modelling the critical challenges of quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemichttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2024-0016/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, yet still, it is unclear from existing studies about the critical challenges imposed on quality assurance (QA), particularly Cross-border Construction Logistics and Supply Chain (Cb-CLSC). Thus, this study aims to identify and examine the critical challenges of QA of Cb-CLSC during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim is achieved via an embedded mixed-method approach pragmatically involving a desk literature review and engaging 150 experts across the globe using expert surveys, and results confirmed by semi-structured interviews. The approach is based on Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) as its foundation. The study revealed ten critical challenges of QA, with the top four including “the shortage of raw construction material (C7)”, “design changes (C6)”, “collaboration and communication difficulties (C1)” and “changes in work practices (C10)”. However, examining the interrelationships among the critical challenges using ISM confirmed C7 and C10 as the most critical challenges. The study again revealed that the critical challenges are sensitive and capable of affecting themselves due to the nature of their interrelationship based on MICMAC analysis. Hence, being consistent with why all the challenges were considered critical amid the pandemic. Sentiment analysis revealed that the critical challenges have not been entirely negative but also positive by creating three areas of opportunities for improvement: technology adoption, worker management, and work process management. However, four areas of challenges in the QA include cost, raw material, time, and work process, including inspection, testing, auditing, communication, etc. The finding provides a convenient point of reference to researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and decision-makers on formulating policies to enhance the effectiveness of construction QA during the pandemic through to the post-pandemic era. The study enriches the extant literature on QA, Cb-CLSC, and the COVID-19 pandemic in the construction industry by identifying the critical challenges and examining the interrelationships among them. This provides a better understanding of how the construction QA has been affected by the pandemic and the opportunities created.Modelling the critical challenges of quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic
Frank Ato Ghansah, Weisheng Lu, Benjamin Kwaku Ababio
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, yet still, it is unclear from existing studies about the critical challenges imposed on quality assurance (QA), particularly Cross-border Construction Logistics and Supply Chain (Cb-CLSC). Thus, this study aims to identify and examine the critical challenges of QA of Cb-CLSC during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The aim is achieved via an embedded mixed-method approach pragmatically involving a desk literature review and engaging 150 experts across the globe using expert surveys, and results confirmed by semi-structured interviews. The approach is based on Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) as its foundation.

The study revealed ten critical challenges of QA, with the top four including “the shortage of raw construction material (C7)”, “design changes (C6)”, “collaboration and communication difficulties (C1)” and “changes in work practices (C10)”. However, examining the interrelationships among the critical challenges using ISM confirmed C7 and C10 as the most critical challenges. The study again revealed that the critical challenges are sensitive and capable of affecting themselves due to the nature of their interrelationship based on MICMAC analysis. Hence, being consistent with why all the challenges were considered critical amid the pandemic. Sentiment analysis revealed that the critical challenges have not been entirely negative but also positive by creating three areas of opportunities for improvement: technology adoption, worker management, and work process management. However, four areas of challenges in the QA include cost, raw material, time, and work process, including inspection, testing, auditing, communication, etc.

The finding provides a convenient point of reference to researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and decision-makers on formulating policies to enhance the effectiveness of construction QA during the pandemic through to the post-pandemic era.

The study enriches the extant literature on QA, Cb-CLSC, and the COVID-19 pandemic in the construction industry by identifying the critical challenges and examining the interrelationships among them. This provides a better understanding of how the construction QA has been affected by the pandemic and the opportunities created.

]]>
Modelling the critical challenges of quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic10.1108/ECAM-01-2024-0016Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedFrank Ato GhansahWeisheng LuBenjamin Kwaku AbabioEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-01-2024-0016https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-01-2024-0016/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Incentivisation of digital technology takers in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0101/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestStudies showed that digital technology applications in the construction industry are low, especially in many developing nations. Construction incentivisation (CI) is one of the long-standing principles adopted to enhance project performance. There is a paucity of studies concerning CI to improve digital technology applications. Thus, this research investigated the relevance and perceived hindrances that may hinder the implementation of CI from promoting digital technologies and proffer ways to improve digital technology applications in the construction sector. In Nigeria’s context, this research is exploratory. Twenty-four semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria, with knowledgeable participants that indicated interest and were interviewed. The engaged interviewees were drawn from government agencies, academicians in construction consultancy, Internet and communication technology experts, construction contracting firms and construction consulting firms. The collected data were coded and analysed through a thematic method. Digitalisation of the industry via CI may face some hindrances. The perceived issues that may hinder CI implementation were classified into most severe, severe and fairly severe in Nigeria’s construction industry context. Findings proffer feasible policy solutions that can mitigate these issues and improve digital technology applications in the industry via the CI. This study covered the relevance and perceived issues that may hinder the implementation of the CI to improve digital technology applications in the industry. Also, the study proffers policy solutions to enhance digital technology applications in the industry via the CI concept. Findings from this research will support and offer a valuable understanding of the relevance of the “incentivisation concept” to improve digital technology applications in the Nigerian-built environment. Other developing countries with low applications of digital technology in construction may consider the suggested policy solutions from this research. Also, this study will stir policymakers and construction practitioners to support policies tailored towards improving digital technology applications in construction. This research contributes by exploring the effectiveness of the CI concept and informing construction practitioners and policymakers on how to improve digital technology applications in the Nigerian construction industry.Incentivisation of digital technology takers in the construction industry
Andrew Ebekozien, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Studies showed that digital technology applications in the construction industry are low, especially in many developing nations. Construction incentivisation (CI) is one of the long-standing principles adopted to enhance project performance. There is a paucity of studies concerning CI to improve digital technology applications. Thus, this research investigated the relevance and perceived hindrances that may hinder the implementation of CI from promoting digital technologies and proffer ways to improve digital technology applications in the construction sector.

In Nigeria’s context, this research is exploratory. Twenty-four semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria, with knowledgeable participants that indicated interest and were interviewed. The engaged interviewees were drawn from government agencies, academicians in construction consultancy, Internet and communication technology experts, construction contracting firms and construction consulting firms. The collected data were coded and analysed through a thematic method.

Digitalisation of the industry via CI may face some hindrances. The perceived issues that may hinder CI implementation were classified into most severe, severe and fairly severe in Nigeria’s construction industry context. Findings proffer feasible policy solutions that can mitigate these issues and improve digital technology applications in the industry via the CI.

This study covered the relevance and perceived issues that may hinder the implementation of the CI to improve digital technology applications in the industry. Also, the study proffers policy solutions to enhance digital technology applications in the industry via the CI concept.

Findings from this research will support and offer a valuable understanding of the relevance of the “incentivisation concept” to improve digital technology applications in the Nigerian-built environment. Other developing countries with low applications of digital technology in construction may consider the suggested policy solutions from this research. Also, this study will stir policymakers and construction practitioners to support policies tailored towards improving digital technology applications in construction.

This research contributes by exploring the effectiveness of the CI concept and informing construction practitioners and policymakers on how to improve digital technology applications in the Nigerian construction industry.

]]>
Incentivisation of digital technology takers in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0101Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-23© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedAndrew EbekozienMohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2310.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0101https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0101/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining the perception of site workers of their risk-taking behaviours on construction sites in Ghanahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0113/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough many health and safety (H&S) studies have widely examined safety risk perception in the construction industry, few studies have explored how this perception influences site workers' risk-taking behaviours during construction. This study aims to examine how construction site workers perceive and judge safety risks in risk-taking behaviours of site workers for intervention safety policy framework that may encourage safe work. The study employed Pictorial-based Q-Methodology, which documented 63 picture scenarios of risk-taking behaviours from building sites and submitted them for validation from H&S inspectors. In total, 33 pictures emerged as having great potential to cause harm. After using these 33 pictures to elicit data from randomised site workers, the study used Frequency Tabulation, Relative Importance Index (RII) and Kruskal–Wallis Test to analyse the collected data. To fully explain the analysed data for deeper understanding, the study conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with these site workers to share the thoughts of site workers on these pictures. Two distinctive pictures emerged from these analyses: one showing risk-taking behaviour likely to contract internal and skin disease and the other likely to fall from height. One of the implications is that construction site workers are unfamiliar with the dangerous contaminants in the materials the site workers use to work, which can potentially harm the site workers' skin and internal organs. Hence, site workers continue engaging in risk-taking behaviours. The other is that site workers are aware of and can mention catastrophic physical injuries attached to site workers' jobs. However, site workers continue engaging in risk-taking behaviours because of site workers' safety plights and rely on the favour and mercies of a supreme being as coping strategies to escape from these physical injuries. This study is original in that the study uses picture scenarios of risk-taking behaviours to amass an empirical-based understanding of how site workers perceive and respond to H&S risks during construction. This piece of evidence is missing in the numerous research studies in this area. Again, the findings contribute to the state-of-the-art literature regarding risk-taking behaviours on construction sites.Examining the perception of site workers of their risk-taking behaviours on construction sites in Ghana
Frederick Owusu Danso, Kofi Agyekum, Patrick Manu, Emmanuel Adinyira, Divine K. Ahadzie, Edward Badu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although many health and safety (H&S) studies have widely examined safety risk perception in the construction industry, few studies have explored how this perception influences site workers' risk-taking behaviours during construction. This study aims to examine how construction site workers perceive and judge safety risks in risk-taking behaviours of site workers for intervention safety policy framework that may encourage safe work.

The study employed Pictorial-based Q-Methodology, which documented 63 picture scenarios of risk-taking behaviours from building sites and submitted them for validation from H&S inspectors. In total, 33 pictures emerged as having great potential to cause harm. After using these 33 pictures to elicit data from randomised site workers, the study used Frequency Tabulation, Relative Importance Index (RII) and Kruskal–Wallis Test to analyse the collected data. To fully explain the analysed data for deeper understanding, the study conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with these site workers to share the thoughts of site workers on these pictures.

Two distinctive pictures emerged from these analyses: one showing risk-taking behaviour likely to contract internal and skin disease and the other likely to fall from height. One of the implications is that construction site workers are unfamiliar with the dangerous contaminants in the materials the site workers use to work, which can potentially harm the site workers' skin and internal organs. Hence, site workers continue engaging in risk-taking behaviours. The other is that site workers are aware of and can mention catastrophic physical injuries attached to site workers' jobs. However, site workers continue engaging in risk-taking behaviours because of site workers' safety plights and rely on the favour and mercies of a supreme being as coping strategies to escape from these physical injuries.

This study is original in that the study uses picture scenarios of risk-taking behaviours to amass an empirical-based understanding of how site workers perceive and respond to H&S risks during construction. This piece of evidence is missing in the numerous research studies in this area. Again, the findings contribute to the state-of-the-art literature regarding risk-taking behaviours on construction sites.

]]>
Examining the perception of site workers of their risk-taking behaviours on construction sites in Ghana10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0113Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-09© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedFrederick Owusu DansoKofi AgyekumPatrick ManuEmmanuel AdinyiraDivine K. AhadzieEdward BaduEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-0910.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0113https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0113/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Moving toward sustainability and circularity in hill road construction: a study of barriers, practices and performancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0138/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study explores the relationships among sustainability implementation barriers (resource, managerial and regulatory barriers), sustainability practices (sustainable construction materials, sustainable construction design, modern construction methods and environmental provisions and reporting) and sustainability performance (environmental, economic and social) in hill road construction (HRC). Primary data were collected from the 313 HRC practitioners with the help of a questionnaire, and research hypotheses were tested employing structural equation modeling. The findings reveal a mixed effect of sustainability implementation barriers. Resource (managerial) barriers are negatively related to all practices except environmental provisions and reporting (sustainable construction materials), while regulatory barriers only negatively impact modern construction methods. On the other hand, all sustainability practices positively impact environmental performance, whereas economic (social) performance is positively influenced by all practices, except environmental provisions and reporting (modern construction methods), and positively affects economic performance. In order to transform HRC toward sustainability, the barriers to sustainability implementation, sustainability practices and performance need to be understood by practitioners; however, the relationships have not previously been empirically assessed in extant literature. Besides, past research appears to be predominantly focused on the environmental aspect, thereby neglecting economic and social aspects. This study is a modest attempt to bridge these research gaps.Moving toward sustainability and circularity in hill road construction: a study of barriers, practices and performance
Ram Asra Khural, Shashi, Myriam Ertz, Roberto Cerchione
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study explores the relationships among sustainability implementation barriers (resource, managerial and regulatory barriers), sustainability practices (sustainable construction materials, sustainable construction design, modern construction methods and environmental provisions and reporting) and sustainability performance (environmental, economic and social) in hill road construction (HRC).

Primary data were collected from the 313 HRC practitioners with the help of a questionnaire, and research hypotheses were tested employing structural equation modeling.

The findings reveal a mixed effect of sustainability implementation barriers. Resource (managerial) barriers are negatively related to all practices except environmental provisions and reporting (sustainable construction materials), while regulatory barriers only negatively impact modern construction methods. On the other hand, all sustainability practices positively impact environmental performance, whereas economic (social) performance is positively influenced by all practices, except environmental provisions and reporting (modern construction methods), and positively affects economic performance.

In order to transform HRC toward sustainability, the barriers to sustainability implementation, sustainability practices and performance need to be understood by practitioners; however, the relationships have not previously been empirically assessed in extant literature. Besides, past research appears to be predominantly focused on the environmental aspect, thereby neglecting economic and social aspects. This study is a modest attempt to bridge these research gaps.

]]>
Moving toward sustainability and circularity in hill road construction: a study of barriers, practices and performance10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0138Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-13© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedRam Asra Khural ShashiMyriam ErtzRoberto CerchioneEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1310.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0138https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0138/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Robotics in industrialized construction: an activity-based ranking system for assembly manufacturing taskshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0143/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the proven evidence of ever-growing productivity gains in the manufacturing industry as a result of years of research and investment in advanced technologies, such as robotics, the adoption of robots in construction is still lagging. The existing literature lacks technical frameworks and guidelines that account for the one-of-a-kind nature of construction projects and the myriad of materials and dimensional components in construction activities. This study seeks to address existing technical uncertainty and productivity issues associated with the application of robotics in the assembly-type manufacturing of industrialized construction. To facilitate the selection of suitable robotic arms for industrialized construction activities, primarily assembly-type manufacturing tasks of offsite production processes, an activity-based ranking system based on axiomatic design principles is proposed. The proposed ranking system utilizes five functional requirements derived from robot characteristics—speed, payload, reach, degrees of freedom and position repeatability—to evaluate robot performance in an industrialized construction task using simulations of a framing station. Based on design parameters obtained from activity-based simulations, seventy six robotic arms suitable for the framing task were scored and ranked. According to the sensitivity analysis of proposed functional requirements, speed is the key functional requirement that has a notable effect on productivity of a framing station and is thus the determinant in robot performance assessment for framing tasks. The proposed ranking system is expected to augment automation in construction and serve as a preliminary guideline to help construction professionals in making informed decisions regarding the adoption of robotic arms.Robotics in industrialized construction: an activity-based ranking system for assembly manufacturing tasks
Behnam M. Tehrani, Samer BuHamdan, Aladdin Alwisy
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the proven evidence of ever-growing productivity gains in the manufacturing industry as a result of years of research and investment in advanced technologies, such as robotics, the adoption of robots in construction is still lagging. The existing literature lacks technical frameworks and guidelines that account for the one-of-a-kind nature of construction projects and the myriad of materials and dimensional components in construction activities. This study seeks to address existing technical uncertainty and productivity issues associated with the application of robotics in the assembly-type manufacturing of industrialized construction.

To facilitate the selection of suitable robotic arms for industrialized construction activities, primarily assembly-type manufacturing tasks of offsite production processes, an activity-based ranking system based on axiomatic design principles is proposed. The proposed ranking system utilizes five functional requirements derived from robot characteristics—speed, payload, reach, degrees of freedom and position repeatability—to evaluate robot performance in an industrialized construction task using simulations of a framing station.

Based on design parameters obtained from activity-based simulations, seventy six robotic arms suitable for the framing task were scored and ranked. According to the sensitivity analysis of proposed functional requirements, speed is the key functional requirement that has a notable effect on productivity of a framing station and is thus the determinant in robot performance assessment for framing tasks.

The proposed ranking system is expected to augment automation in construction and serve as a preliminary guideline to help construction professionals in making informed decisions regarding the adoption of robotic arms.

]]>
Robotics in industrialized construction: an activity-based ranking system for assembly manufacturing tasks10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0143Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-27© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedBehnam M. TehraniSamer BuHamdanAladdin AlwisyEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2710.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0143https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0143/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
The role of artificial intelligence in lean construction managementhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0153/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this article is to analyze the existing studies on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in lean construction management (LCM). Further, this study offers a classification scheme that specifies different categories of AI tools, as applied to the field of LCM to support various principles of LCM. This research adopts the systematic literature review (SLR) process, which consists of five consecutive steps: planning, searching, screening, extraction and synthesis and reporting. As a supplement to SLR, a bibliometric analysis is performed to examine the quantity and citation impact of the reviewed papers. In this paper, seven key areas related to the principles of LCM for which AI tools have been used are identified. The findings of this research clarify how AI can assist in bolstering the practice of LCM. Further, this article presents directions for the future evolution of AI tools in LCM based on the current emerging trends. This paper advances the LCM systems by offering a lens through which construction managers can better understand key concepts in the linkage of AI to LCM. This research offers a new classification scheme that allows researchers to properly recall, identify and group various applications of AI categories in the construction industry based on various principles of LCM. In addition, this study provides a source of references for researchers in the LCM discipline, which advances knowledge and facilitates theory development in the field.The role of artificial intelligence in lean construction management
Jantanee Dumrak, Seyed Ashkan Zarghami
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this article is to analyze the existing studies on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in lean construction management (LCM). Further, this study offers a classification scheme that specifies different categories of AI tools, as applied to the field of LCM to support various principles of LCM.

This research adopts the systematic literature review (SLR) process, which consists of five consecutive steps: planning, searching, screening, extraction and synthesis and reporting. As a supplement to SLR, a bibliometric analysis is performed to examine the quantity and citation impact of the reviewed papers.

In this paper, seven key areas related to the principles of LCM for which AI tools have been used are identified. The findings of this research clarify how AI can assist in bolstering the practice of LCM. Further, this article presents directions for the future evolution of AI tools in LCM based on the current emerging trends.

This paper advances the LCM systems by offering a lens through which construction managers can better understand key concepts in the linkage of AI to LCM.

This research offers a new classification scheme that allows researchers to properly recall, identify and group various applications of AI categories in the construction industry based on various principles of LCM. In addition, this study provides a source of references for researchers in the LCM discipline, which advances knowledge and facilitates theory development in the field.

]]>
The role of artificial intelligence in lean construction management10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0153Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJantanee DumrakSeyed Ashkan ZarghamiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0410.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0153https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0153/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Stakeholder collaboration to mitigate constraints to delivering low-carbon buildings: insights from high-rise high-density citieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0166/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite carbon reduction commitments, many constraints hinder the delivery of low-carbon buildings (LCBs) in high-rise high-density cities. The collaborative commitment of relevant stakeholders is vital to effectively address and mitigate these constraints. Hence, this study aims to comprehensively explore the required stakeholder collaboration attributes to address and mitigate the “common” constraints of delivering LCBs by focussing on several high-rise high-density cities. A list of 21 “significant and common” constraints was identified through a systematic literature review followed by a questionnaire survey covering five economies (Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, Qatar and the UAE). Nineteen influential stakeholders/stakeholder categories were identified through the literature, and their ability to influence the 21 constraints was mapped and identified through a two-round Delphi survey of 15 experienced professionals. The Delphi survey findings were analysed through social network analysis (SNA) methods to assess the stakeholder engagement and collaboration attributes. The SNA results revealed the ability of stakeholders to influence the constraints, required collaborative stakeholder networks to address the constraints, significance of stakeholders according to the SNA centrality measures, core and periphery stakeholders and individual co-affiliation networks of core stakeholders. While achieving the planned primary target of exploring stakeholder collaboration and their significance through SNA, this study also presents a useful sequential methodological approach for future researchers to conduct similar studies in different contexts. The findings also provide a foundation for accelerating the delivery of LCBs by strengthening stakeholder collaboration.Stakeholder collaboration to mitigate constraints to delivering low-carbon buildings: insights from high-rise high-density cities
Nandun Madhusanka Hewa Welege, Wei Pan, Mohan Kumaraswamy
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite carbon reduction commitments, many constraints hinder the delivery of low-carbon buildings (LCBs) in high-rise high-density cities. The collaborative commitment of relevant stakeholders is vital to effectively address and mitigate these constraints. Hence, this study aims to comprehensively explore the required stakeholder collaboration attributes to address and mitigate the “common” constraints of delivering LCBs by focussing on several high-rise high-density cities.

A list of 21 “significant and common” constraints was identified through a systematic literature review followed by a questionnaire survey covering five economies (Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, Qatar and the UAE). Nineteen influential stakeholders/stakeholder categories were identified through the literature, and their ability to influence the 21 constraints was mapped and identified through a two-round Delphi survey of 15 experienced professionals. The Delphi survey findings were analysed through social network analysis (SNA) methods to assess the stakeholder engagement and collaboration attributes.

The SNA results revealed the ability of stakeholders to influence the constraints, required collaborative stakeholder networks to address the constraints, significance of stakeholders according to the SNA centrality measures, core and periphery stakeholders and individual co-affiliation networks of core stakeholders.

While achieving the planned primary target of exploring stakeholder collaboration and their significance through SNA, this study also presents a useful sequential methodological approach for future researchers to conduct similar studies in different contexts. The findings also provide a foundation for accelerating the delivery of LCBs by strengthening stakeholder collaboration.

]]>
Stakeholder collaboration to mitigate constraints to delivering low-carbon buildings: insights from high-rise high-density cities10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0166Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNandun Madhusanka Hewa WelegeWei PanMohan KumaraswamyEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1610.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0166https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0166/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of supervisor leadership on construction worker safety behavior in China: the moderating role of social capitalhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0180/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestLeaders' behavior has a critical impact on workers' safety behavior. However, previous studies have shown contradictive views on the effect of different leadership styles on safety behavior. One reason may be that the effectiveness of leaders' behavior varies according to diverse contexts. This study examines the effect of transformational and transactional leadership (TsL) on the safety behavior of on-site workers under different levels of social capital in construction projects. Safety behavior is divided into three types: safety compliance (SC), organizational-oriented safety participation and individual-oriented safety participation (ISP). Questionnaire survey data were collected from 302 construction workers in the Chinese construction industry. The results indicate that the positive effect of transformational leadership (TfL) of frontline supervisors on the two types of construction workers' safety participation is enhanced when social capital is high, although TfL has no significant effect on SC behavior. In contrast, TsL can promote construction workers' SC behavior and organizational-oriented safety participation and social capital positively moderating these relationships. TsL has no significant effect on ISP, but its interaction with safety behavior is positively related to ISP. This study explains the inconsistent findings of previous research related to the role of leadership in safety behavior by introducing the social capitaltheory and distinguishing safety participation into two typesThis study is confined to one specific country, future research may benefit from investigating whether the conclusions of this study will be different in other nations with diverse cultures. The findings of the study provide frontline supervisors with new insights into improving workers' safety and the efficiency of leadership in safety management. This study explains the inconsistent findings of previous research related to the role of leadership in safety behavior by introducing the social capital theory and distinguishing safety participation into two types.Impact of supervisor leadership on construction worker safety behavior in China: the moderating role of social capital
Xiuyu Wu, Qinzhen Qian, Meng Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Leaders' behavior has a critical impact on workers' safety behavior. However, previous studies have shown contradictive views on the effect of different leadership styles on safety behavior. One reason may be that the effectiveness of leaders' behavior varies according to diverse contexts. This study examines the effect of transformational and transactional leadership (TsL) on the safety behavior of on-site workers under different levels of social capital in construction projects.

Safety behavior is divided into three types: safety compliance (SC), organizational-oriented safety participation and individual-oriented safety participation (ISP). Questionnaire survey data were collected from 302 construction workers in the Chinese construction industry.

The results indicate that the positive effect of transformational leadership (TfL) of frontline supervisors on the two types of construction workers' safety participation is enhanced when social capital is high, although TfL has no significant effect on SC behavior. In contrast, TsL can promote construction workers' SC behavior and organizational-oriented safety participation and social capital positively moderating these relationships. TsL has no significant effect on ISP, but its interaction with safety behavior is positively related to ISP.

This study explains the inconsistent findings of previous research related to the role of leadership in safety behavior by introducing the social capitaltheory and distinguishing safety participation into two typesThis study is confined to one specific country, future research may benefit from investigating whether the conclusions of this study will be different in other nations with diverse cultures.

The findings of the study provide frontline supervisors with new insights into improving workers' safety and the efficiency of leadership in safety management.

This study explains the inconsistent findings of previous research related to the role of leadership in safety behavior by introducing the social capital theory and distinguishing safety participation into two types.

]]>
Impact of supervisor leadership on construction worker safety behavior in China: the moderating role of social capital10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0180Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-16© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiuyu WuQinzhen QianMeng ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1610.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0180https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0180/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Using principal component analysis to identify latent factors affecting cost and time overrun in public construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0189/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCost and time are two of the primary benchmarks in which construction projects are measured. A variety of factors, however, affect cost and time on construction projects, as identified in previous research. This has led to a need for better understanding how factors affecting cost and time overruns on public construction projects can be managed more efficiently. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues. In this study 26 factors affecting cost and time overruns on construction projects were identified, through qualitative interviews with project managers from Danish governmental agencies and through a literature review. Through principal component analyses the 26 factors were subsequently narrowed down to four primary latent factors. The identified four latent factors affecting cost and time overruns on public construction projects were lack of quality management, lack of project pre-planning, lack of user management and lack of project management. Previous research has focussed on increasing knowledge by identifying and ranking factors affecting time and cost performance. This has led to the identification of an overwhelming number of factors to use for managing construction projects. The present research reduced the number of factors by clustering them into key latent factors responsible for most of the deviation in performance, narrowing the scope of construction cost and time management into a few tangible key focus areas. This supports and improves fast decision-making that is necessary in a changeable environment such as construction.Using principal component analysis to identify latent factors affecting cost and time overrun in public construction projects
Simon Wyke, Søren Munch Lindhard, Jesper Kranker Larsen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Cost and time are two of the primary benchmarks in which construction projects are measured. A variety of factors, however, affect cost and time on construction projects, as identified in previous research. This has led to a need for better understanding how factors affecting cost and time overruns on public construction projects can be managed more efficiently. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.

In this study 26 factors affecting cost and time overruns on construction projects were identified, through qualitative interviews with project managers from Danish governmental agencies and through a literature review. Through principal component analyses the 26 factors were subsequently narrowed down to four primary latent factors.

The identified four latent factors affecting cost and time overruns on public construction projects were lack of quality management, lack of project pre-planning, lack of user management and lack of project management.

Previous research has focussed on increasing knowledge by identifying and ranking factors affecting time and cost performance. This has led to the identification of an overwhelming number of factors to use for managing construction projects. The present research reduced the number of factors by clustering them into key latent factors responsible for most of the deviation in performance, narrowing the scope of construction cost and time management into a few tangible key focus areas. This supports and improves fast decision-making that is necessary in a changeable environment such as construction.

]]>
Using principal component analysis to identify latent factors affecting cost and time overrun in public construction projects10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0189Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-03© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedSimon WykeSøren Munch LindhardJesper Kranker LarsenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-0310.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0189https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2022-0189/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing and validating a new conceptual model for successful implementation of lean construction: SEM analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0102/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestLean construction (LC) consists of very effective techniques; however, its implementation varies considerably from one industry to another. Although numerous lean initiatives do exist in the construction industry, the research topic related to LC implementation is still unexplored due to the scarcity of validated assessment frameworks. This study aims to provide the first attempt in developing a structural model for successful LC implementation. This study developed a Lean construction model (LCM) by critically reviewing seven previous LC frameworks from different countries, defining 18 subprinciples grouped into 6 major principles and formulating testable hypotheses. The questionnaire was pre-tested with 12 construction management experts and revised by 4 specialized academics. A pilot study with 20 construction units enhanced content reliability. Data from 307 Moroccan construction companies were collected to develop a measurement model. SPSS V. 26 was used for Exploratory Factor Analysis, followed by confirmatory factor analysis using AMOS version 23. Finally, a structural equation model statistically assessed each construct's contribution to the success of LC implementation. This work led to the development of an original LCM based on valid and reliable LC constructs, consisting of 18 measurement items grouped into 6 LC principles: Process Transparency, People involvement, Waste elimination, Planning and Continuous improvement, Client Focus and Material/information flow and pull. According to the structural model, LC implementation success is positively influenced by Planning and Scheduling/continuous improvement (β = 0.930), followed by Elimination of waste (β = 0.896). Process transparency ranks third (β = 0.858). The study demonstrates that all these factors are mutually complementary, highlighting a positive relationship between LC implementation success and the holistic application of all LC principles. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to develop a statistically proven model of LC based on structural equation modelling analysis, which is promising for stimulating construction practitioners and researchers for more empirical studies in different countries to obtain a more accurate reflection of LC implementation. Moreover, the paper proposes recommendations to help policymakers, academics and practitioners anticipate the key success drivers for more successful LC implementation.Developing and validating a new conceptual model for successful implementation of lean construction: SEM analysis
Mohamed Saad Bajjou, Anas Chafi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Lean construction (LC) consists of very effective techniques; however, its implementation varies considerably from one industry to another. Although numerous lean initiatives do exist in the construction industry, the research topic related to LC implementation is still unexplored due to the scarcity of validated assessment frameworks. This study aims to provide the first attempt in developing a structural model for successful LC implementation.

This study developed a Lean construction model (LCM) by critically reviewing seven previous LC frameworks from different countries, defining 18 subprinciples grouped into 6 major principles and formulating testable hypotheses. The questionnaire was pre-tested with 12 construction management experts and revised by 4 specialized academics. A pilot study with 20 construction units enhanced content reliability. Data from 307 Moroccan construction companies were collected to develop a measurement model. SPSS V. 26 was used for Exploratory Factor Analysis, followed by confirmatory factor analysis using AMOS version 23. Finally, a structural equation model statistically assessed each construct's contribution to the success of LC implementation.

This work led to the development of an original LCM based on valid and reliable LC constructs, consisting of 18 measurement items grouped into 6 LC principles: Process Transparency, People involvement, Waste elimination, Planning and Continuous improvement, Client Focus and Material/information flow and pull. According to the structural model, LC implementation success is positively influenced by Planning and Scheduling/continuous improvement (β = 0.930), followed by Elimination of waste (β = 0.896). Process transparency ranks third (β = 0.858). The study demonstrates that all these factors are mutually complementary, highlighting a positive relationship between LC implementation success and the holistic application of all LC principles.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to develop a statistically proven model of LC based on structural equation modelling analysis, which is promising for stimulating construction practitioners and researchers for more empirical studies in different countries to obtain a more accurate reflection of LC implementation. Moreover, the paper proposes recommendations to help policymakers, academics and practitioners anticipate the key success drivers for more successful LC implementation.

]]>
Developing and validating a new conceptual model for successful implementation of lean construction: SEM analysis10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0102Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohamed Saad BajjouAnas ChafiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1910.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0102https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0102/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evaluation of risk factors affecting the safety of coal mine construction projects using an integrated DEMATEL-ISM approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0103/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose is to identify and evaluate the safety risk factors in the coal mine construction process. The text mining technique was applied in the stage of safety risk factor identification. The association rules method was used to obtain associations with safety risk factors. Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) were utilized to evaluate safety risk factors. The results show that 18 safety risk factors are divided into 6 levels. There are 12 risk transmission paths in total. Meanwhile, unsafe behavior and equipment malfunction failure are the direct causes of accidents, and inadequate management system is the basic factor that determines the safety risk status. Due to the limitation of the computational matrix workload, this article only categorizes numerous lexical items into 18 factors. Then, the workshop relied on a limited number of experts; thus, the findings may be potentially biased. Next, the accident report lacks a universal standard for compilation, and the use of text mining technique may be further optimized. Finally, since the data are all from China, subsequent cross-country studies should be considered. The results can help China coal mine project managers to have a clear understanding of safety risks, efficiently carry out risk hazard identification work and take timely measures to cut off the path of transmission with risks identified in this study. This helps reduce the economic losses of coal mining enterprises, thus improving the safety standards of the entire coal mining industry and the national standards for coal mine safety policy formulation. Coal mine construction projects are characterized by complexity and difficulties in construction. Current research on the identification and assessment of safety risk factors in coal mine construction is insufficient. This study combines objective and systematic research approaches. The findings contribute to the safety risk management of China coal mine construction projects by providing a basis for the development of safety measures.Evaluation of risk factors affecting the safety of coal mine construction projects using an integrated DEMATEL-ISM approach
Xiaobo Shi, Yan Liu, Kunkun Ma, Zixin Gu, Yaning Qiao, Guodong Ni, Chibuzor Ojum, Alex Opoku, Yong Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose is to identify and evaluate the safety risk factors in the coal mine construction process.

The text mining technique was applied in the stage of safety risk factor identification. The association rules method was used to obtain associations with safety risk factors. Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Interpretative Structural Modeling (ISM) were utilized to evaluate safety risk factors.

The results show that 18 safety risk factors are divided into 6 levels. There are 12 risk transmission paths in total. Meanwhile, unsafe behavior and equipment malfunction failure are the direct causes of accidents, and inadequate management system is the basic factor that determines the safety risk status.

Due to the limitation of the computational matrix workload, this article only categorizes numerous lexical items into 18 factors. Then, the workshop relied on a limited number of experts; thus, the findings may be potentially biased. Next, the accident report lacks a universal standard for compilation, and the use of text mining technique may be further optimized. Finally, since the data are all from China, subsequent cross-country studies should be considered.

The results can help China coal mine project managers to have a clear understanding of safety risks, efficiently carry out risk hazard identification work and take timely measures to cut off the path of transmission with risks identified in this study. This helps reduce the economic losses of coal mining enterprises, thus improving the safety standards of the entire coal mining industry and the national standards for coal mine safety policy formulation.

Coal mine construction projects are characterized by complexity and difficulties in construction. Current research on the identification and assessment of safety risk factors in coal mine construction is insufficient. This study combines objective and systematic research approaches. The findings contribute to the safety risk management of China coal mine construction projects by providing a basis for the development of safety measures.

]]>
Evaluation of risk factors affecting the safety of coal mine construction projects using an integrated DEMATEL-ISM approach10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0103Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-20© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaobo ShiYan LiuKunkun MaZixin GuYaning QiaoGuodong NiChibuzor OjumAlex OpokuYong LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2010.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0103https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0103/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Selection framework of disruption analysis methods for megaprojects: an integrated fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0105/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to propose a decision support framework that can be used by decision-makers to identify the most convenient disruption analysis (DA) methods for megaprojects and their stakeholders. The framework was initially developed by conducting a comprehensive literature review to obtain extensive knowledge about disruption management and megaprojects. Focus group discussion (FGD) sessions with the participation of the construction practitioners were then organized to validate and strengthen the findings of the literature review. Consequently, 17 selection factors were identified and categorized as requirement, ability and outcome. Lastly, the most convenient DA methods for megaprojects were identified by performing integrated fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) analysis. Additionally, consistency analysis was also conducted to verify the reliability of the results. The results revealed that the measured mile method is the most appropriate DA method for megaprojects. In case the measured mile method cannot be adopted due to various technical and contractual reasons, the decision-makers are proposed to consider program analysis, work or trade sampling, earned value analysis and control chart method, respectively. Second, the selection factors such as “Comprehensible analysis procedure,” “Existing knowledge and experience about a particular DA method,” “Ability to resolve greater number of disruption events,” “Ability to resolve complex disruption events,” “Ability to exclude factors that are not under the owner's responsibility” and “General acceptance by practitioners, courts, and arbitration, etc.” were given the top priority by the experts, highlighting the critical aspects of the DA methods. Disruption claims in megaprojects are very critical for the contractors to compensate for the losses stemming from disruption events. Although the effective use of DA methods maximizes the accuracy and reliability of disruption claims, decision-makers can barely implement these methods adequately since past studies neglect to present extensive knowledge about the most convenient DA methods for megaprojects. Thus, developing a decision support framework for the selection of DA methods, this study is the earliest attempt that examines the mechanisms and inherent differences of DA methods. Additionally, owing to the robustness and versatility of this research approach, the research approach could be replicated also for future studies focusing on other project-based industries since disruption is also a challenging issue for many other industries.Selection framework of disruption analysis methods for megaprojects: an integrated fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach
Ozan Okudan, Murat Cevikbas, Zeynep Işık
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to propose a decision support framework that can be used by decision-makers to identify the most convenient disruption analysis (DA) methods for megaprojects and their stakeholders.

The framework was initially developed by conducting a comprehensive literature review to obtain extensive knowledge about disruption management and megaprojects. Focus group discussion (FGD) sessions with the participation of the construction practitioners were then organized to validate and strengthen the findings of the literature review. Consequently, 17 selection factors were identified and categorized as requirement, ability and outcome. Lastly, the most convenient DA methods for megaprojects were identified by performing integrated fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) analysis. Additionally, consistency analysis was also conducted to verify the reliability of the results.

The results revealed that the measured mile method is the most appropriate DA method for megaprojects. In case the measured mile method cannot be adopted due to various technical and contractual reasons, the decision-makers are proposed to consider program analysis, work or trade sampling, earned value analysis and control chart method, respectively. Second, the selection factors such as “Comprehensible analysis procedure,” “Existing knowledge and experience about a particular DA method,” “Ability to resolve greater number of disruption events,” “Ability to resolve complex disruption events,” “Ability to exclude factors that are not under the owner's responsibility” and “General acceptance by practitioners, courts, and arbitration, etc.” were given the top priority by the experts, highlighting the critical aspects of the DA methods.

Disruption claims in megaprojects are very critical for the contractors to compensate for the losses stemming from disruption events. Although the effective use of DA methods maximizes the accuracy and reliability of disruption claims, decision-makers can barely implement these methods adequately since past studies neglect to present extensive knowledge about the most convenient DA methods for megaprojects. Thus, developing a decision support framework for the selection of DA methods, this study is the earliest attempt that examines the mechanisms and inherent differences of DA methods. Additionally, owing to the robustness and versatility of this research approach, the research approach could be replicated also for future studies focusing on other project-based industries since disruption is also a challenging issue for many other industries.

]]>
Selection framework of disruption analysis methods for megaprojects: an integrated fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making approach10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0105Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedOzan OkudanMurat CevikbasZeynep IşıkEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0310.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0105https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0105/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effects of performance measurement on megaproject performance: the moderating effects of project complexityhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0107/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMegaproject performance measurement (MPM) has received great attention in the project management community, but it primarily focused on the design of performance measures or frameworks. Yet, whether MPM utilization can improve megaproject performance and how project actors use MPM to improve megaproject performance is less well understood. This study aims to investigate whether and how the use of MPM can contribute to better megaproject performance. Through the lens of the lever of control, this study conceptualizes MPM utilization as diagnostic use and interactive use. A holistic research model and related hypotheses integrating MPM use, project complexity and megaproject performance were established. The model was validated using a partial square-structural equation modeling method. Based on 214-megaproject data collected through a questionnaire survey in China, the results show positive effects of diagnostic use and interactive use on megaproject performance. Both, however, have substitutional interaction effects. The moderating results suggest that the higher project complexity weakens the positive effects of MPM utilization on megaproject performance. This study advances megaprojects performance measurement and management literature by validating the value of MPM utilization on performance. It also presents practical implications for project managers to improve performance by appropriate MPM utilization.The effects of performance measurement on megaproject performance: the moderating effects of project complexity
Wensheng Lin, Guangbin Wang, Yan Ning, Qiuwen Ma, Shuyuan Dai
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Megaproject performance measurement (MPM) has received great attention in the project management community, but it primarily focused on the design of performance measures or frameworks. Yet, whether MPM utilization can improve megaproject performance and how project actors use MPM to improve megaproject performance is less well understood. This study aims to investigate whether and how the use of MPM can contribute to better megaproject performance.

Through the lens of the lever of control, this study conceptualizes MPM utilization as diagnostic use and interactive use. A holistic research model and related hypotheses integrating MPM use, project complexity and megaproject performance were established. The model was validated using a partial square-structural equation modeling method.

Based on 214-megaproject data collected through a questionnaire survey in China, the results show positive effects of diagnostic use and interactive use on megaproject performance. Both, however, have substitutional interaction effects. The moderating results suggest that the higher project complexity weakens the positive effects of MPM utilization on megaproject performance.

This study advances megaprojects performance measurement and management literature by validating the value of MPM utilization on performance. It also presents practical implications for project managers to improve performance by appropriate MPM utilization.

]]>
The effects of performance measurement on megaproject performance: the moderating effects of project complexity10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0107Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWensheng LinGuangbin WangYan NingQiuwen MaShuyuan DaiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0710.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0107https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0107/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Selecting EVM, ESM and EDM(t) for managing construction project schedulehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0115/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to review earned value management (EVM)-relative methods, including the original EVM, earned schedule method (ESM) and earned duration management (EDM(t)). This study then proposes a general implementation procedure and some basic principles for the selection of EVM-relative methods. After completing an intensive literature review, this study conducts a case study to examine the forecasting performance of project duration using the EVM, ESM and EDM(t) methods. When the project is expected to finish on time, ESM with a performance factor equal to 1 is the recommended method. EDM(t) would be the most reliable method during a project's entire lifetime if EDM(t) is expected to be delayed based on past experience. As this research conducts a case study with only one building construction project, the results might not hold true for all types of construction projects. EVM, ESM and EDM(t) are simple and data-accessible methods. With the help of a general implementation procedure, applying all three methods would be better. The power of the three methods is definitely larger than that of choosing only one for complex construction projects. Previous studies have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of EVM, ESM and EDM(t). This study amends the available outcomes. Thus, for schedulers or researchers interested in implementing EVM, ESM and EDM(t), this study can provide more constructive instructions.Selecting EVM, ESM and EDM(t) for managing construction project schedule
Jyh-Bin Yang, Tzu-Hua Lai
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to review earned value management (EVM)-relative methods, including the original EVM, earned schedule method (ESM) and earned duration management (EDM(t)). This study then proposes a general implementation procedure and some basic principles for the selection of EVM-relative methods.

After completing an intensive literature review, this study conducts a case study to examine the forecasting performance of project duration using the EVM, ESM and EDM(t) methods.

When the project is expected to finish on time, ESM with a performance factor equal to 1 is the recommended method. EDM(t) would be the most reliable method during a project's entire lifetime if EDM(t) is expected to be delayed based on past experience.

As this research conducts a case study with only one building construction project, the results might not hold true for all types of construction projects.

EVM, ESM and EDM(t) are simple and data-accessible methods. With the help of a general implementation procedure, applying all three methods would be better. The power of the three methods is definitely larger than that of choosing only one for complex construction projects.

Previous studies have discussed the advantages and disadvantages of EVM, ESM and EDM(t). This study amends the available outcomes. Thus, for schedulers or researchers interested in implementing EVM, ESM and EDM(t), this study can provide more constructive instructions.

]]>
Selecting EVM, ESM and EDM(t) for managing construction project schedule10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0115Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJyh-Bin YangTzu-Hua LaiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1610.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0115https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0115/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Green transformational leadership and green innovation in megaprojects: is green knowledge sharing a missing link?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0117/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGreen innovation (GI) in megaprojects has become a significant research topic that attracts both megaproject management scholars' and practitioners' attention. Green transformational leadership (GTL) is acknowledged as an important antecedent to GI in the permanent context. However, limited research investigates the mechanism and condition of how GTL effectively affects GI in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. This study seeks to examine the mechanism and condition of GTL in improving GI by assessing the mediating role of green knowledge sharing (GKS) and the moderating effect of innovation climate (IC). Regression analysis was performed on data obtained from 303 experts who have been involved in megaprojects. GTL has a significant positive impact on two aspects of GI, including green product innovation (GPDI) and green process innovation (GPCI). Besides, GKS mediates the relationship between GTL and the two aspects of GI. Moreover, IC plays a significantly positive moderating role in the relationship between GTL and GKS and the relationship between GKS and the two aspects of GI. This study adds knowledge to the theory and practice by unveiling the “black box” between GTL and GI in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. First, this study extends the continuing discussion on the direct effect of GTL on GI to the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. Second, this study facilitates the understanding of the mechanism to generate better GI performance considering the mediating role of GKS and the moderating effect of IC in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. The results can illuminate megaproject practitioners on generating better GI performance.Green transformational leadership and green innovation in megaprojects: is green knowledge sharing a missing link?
Xiaoyan Chen, Yajiao Chen, Xinyue Zhang, Qinghua He
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Green innovation (GI) in megaprojects has become a significant research topic that attracts both megaproject management scholars' and practitioners' attention. Green transformational leadership (GTL) is acknowledged as an important antecedent to GI in the permanent context. However, limited research investigates the mechanism and condition of how GTL effectively affects GI in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. This study seeks to examine the mechanism and condition of GTL in improving GI by assessing the mediating role of green knowledge sharing (GKS) and the moderating effect of innovation climate (IC).

Regression analysis was performed on data obtained from 303 experts who have been involved in megaprojects.

GTL has a significant positive impact on two aspects of GI, including green product innovation (GPDI) and green process innovation (GPCI). Besides, GKS mediates the relationship between GTL and the two aspects of GI. Moreover, IC plays a significantly positive moderating role in the relationship between GTL and GKS and the relationship between GKS and the two aspects of GI.

This study adds knowledge to the theory and practice by unveiling the “black box” between GTL and GI in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. First, this study extends the continuing discussion on the direct effect of GTL on GI to the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. Second, this study facilitates the understanding of the mechanism to generate better GI performance considering the mediating role of GKS and the moderating effect of IC in the temporary (i.e. megaproject) context. The results can illuminate megaproject practitioners on generating better GI performance.

]]>
Green transformational leadership and green innovation in megaprojects: is green knowledge sharing a missing link?10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0117Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoyan ChenYajiao ChenXinyue ZhangQinghua HeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-1110.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0117https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0117/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Students' sound environment perceptions in informal learning spaces: a case study on a university campus in Australiahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0118/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPhysical environments, especially the sound environments of ILSs on a university campus, have become increasingly important in satisfying the diverse needs of students. Poor sound environments are widely acknowledged to lead to inefficient and underutilised spaces and to negatively influence students' learning outcomes. This study proposes two hypotheses to explore whether students' sound environment perceptions are related to their individual characteristics and whether students' preferences for the type of ILS are related to their sound environment sensitivities. An investigation through a questionnaire survey has been conducted on both students' individual characteristics affecting their sound environment perceptions in informal learning spaces (ILSs) of a university campus and their sensitivities to the sound environments in ILSs affecting their preferences for the type of ILSs. The research findings indicate that students' sound environment perceptions are associated with some of their individual characteristics. In addition, the results show that students' sound environment sensitivities affect their preferences for the type of ILS they occupy. This study could help architects and managers of university learning spaces to provide better sound environments for students, thereby improving their learning outcomes. The article contributes valuable insights into the correlation between students' individual characteristics, sound environment perceptions and preferences for ILSs. The research findings add to the existing knowledge in this field and offer practical implications for enhancing design and management of university learning environments.Students' sound environment perceptions in informal learning spaces: a case study on a university campus in Australia
Jia Zhang, Chunlu Liu, Mark Luther, Brian Chil, Jilong Zhao, Changan Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Physical environments, especially the sound environments of ILSs on a university campus, have become increasingly important in satisfying the diverse needs of students. Poor sound environments are widely acknowledged to lead to inefficient and underutilised spaces and to negatively influence students' learning outcomes. This study proposes two hypotheses to explore whether students' sound environment perceptions are related to their individual characteristics and whether students' preferences for the type of ILS are related to their sound environment sensitivities.

An investigation through a questionnaire survey has been conducted on both students' individual characteristics affecting their sound environment perceptions in informal learning spaces (ILSs) of a university campus and their sensitivities to the sound environments in ILSs affecting their preferences for the type of ILSs.

The research findings indicate that students' sound environment perceptions are associated with some of their individual characteristics. In addition, the results show that students' sound environment sensitivities affect their preferences for the type of ILS they occupy.

This study could help architects and managers of university learning spaces to provide better sound environments for students, thereby improving their learning outcomes. The article contributes valuable insights into the correlation between students' individual characteristics, sound environment perceptions and preferences for ILSs. The research findings add to the existing knowledge in this field and offer practical implications for enhancing design and management of university learning environments.

]]>
Students' sound environment perceptions in informal learning spaces: a case study on a university campus in Australia10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0118Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJia ZhangChunlu LiuMark LutherBrian ChilJilong ZhaoChangan LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0710.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0118https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0118/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring the impact of policy interventions on project performance through a PSM-DID approach: evidence from the Hong Kong construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0119/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConsidering the substantial benefits derived from the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in construction projects, governments and its related sectors have introduced mandatory policies requiring the use of BIM. However, little is known about the impact of mandatory policies on BIM-based project performance. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to provide a systematical understanding on the impact of policy interventions on the implementation practice of innovative technologies. This paper utilizes the propensity score matching and difference in differences (PSM-DID) method to investigate the impact of policy interventions on BIM-based project performance. Using the panel data collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Hong Kong construction industry, this paper explores the impact of the first mandatory BIM policy on the BIM-based project performance of three key stakeholders. The subjective BIM performance and BIM return on investment (ROI) have significantly improved after implementing the mandatory BIM policy. The promotion effect of mandatory BIM policy on BIM-based project performance gradually increases over time. Moreover, the promotion effect of mandatory BIM policy on BIM performance shows significant heterogeneity for different stakeholders and organizations of different sizes. This study examined the impact of policy interventions on BIM-based project performance. The research findings can provide a holistic understanding of the potential implications of innovative mandatory policy in performance improvement and offer some constructive suggestions to policymakers and industry practitioners to promote the penetration of BIM in the construction industry.Exploring the impact of policy interventions on project performance through a PSM-DID approach: evidence from the Hong Kong construction industry
Xiaoying Li, Xiujuan Jin, Heng Li, Lulu Gong, Deyang Zhou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Considering the substantial benefits derived from the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in construction projects, governments and its related sectors have introduced mandatory policies requiring the use of BIM. However, little is known about the impact of mandatory policies on BIM-based project performance. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to provide a systematical understanding on the impact of policy interventions on the implementation practice of innovative technologies.

This paper utilizes the propensity score matching and difference in differences (PSM-DID) method to investigate the impact of policy interventions on BIM-based project performance. Using the panel data collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Hong Kong construction industry, this paper explores the impact of the first mandatory BIM policy on the BIM-based project performance of three key stakeholders.

The subjective BIM performance and BIM return on investment (ROI) have significantly improved after implementing the mandatory BIM policy. The promotion effect of mandatory BIM policy on BIM-based project performance gradually increases over time. Moreover, the promotion effect of mandatory BIM policy on BIM performance shows significant heterogeneity for different stakeholders and organizations of different sizes.

This study examined the impact of policy interventions on BIM-based project performance. The research findings can provide a holistic understanding of the potential implications of innovative mandatory policy in performance improvement and offer some constructive suggestions to policymakers and industry practitioners to promote the penetration of BIM in the construction industry.

]]>
Exploring the impact of policy interventions on project performance through a PSM-DID approach: evidence from the Hong Kong construction industry10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0119Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoying LiXiujuan JinHeng LiLulu GongDeyang ZhouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1910.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0119https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0119/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Best practice for safety management – case of major oil processing country in the Middle Easthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0126/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDeployment of health and safety standards in extremely hazardous work environments such as oil and gas sector, is essential to minimise accidents leaving employees permanently or temporarily incapacitated. The purpose of this research, is to understand why there are frequent accidents in case country's oil and gas sector, with a view to recommend solutions to mitigate problems. Research methodology involved extensive review of the literature to appreciate background, and current research on typical accidents and safety measures taken at oil and gas construction sites to minimise accidents in a middle east country. Interviews, questionnaires and case stidies were deployed to acquire data which highlighted major reasons for accidents occurrence at oil and gas construction sites, and safety tools and techniques that could reduce accident rate if adopted by companies. Findings, showed that oil and gas construction projects in case country were prone to health and safety related risks, challenges and accidents due to failure to comply with standards and legislation. Construction site teams and shop floor staff were rarely involved in development of safety policies, and some had no understanding of requirements and procedures underpinning safety during operations. Research recommended rapid application/adoption of international standards underpinned by ISO 45000 series and staff training at all levels. Deployment of robots and use of machine learning technology were suggested to implement risky tasks in the sector. Research was based on rampant accidents occurring in hazardous oil and gas sector in country studied. Enforcement of health and safety standards, and use of modern tools and techniques were recommended to minimise accident rate.Best practice for safety management – case of major oil processing country in the Middle East
Chike F. Oduoza, Reem Alamri, David Oloke
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Deployment of health and safety standards in extremely hazardous work environments such as oil and gas sector, is essential to minimise accidents leaving employees permanently or temporarily incapacitated. The purpose of this research, is to understand why there are frequent accidents in case country's oil and gas sector, with a view to recommend solutions to mitigate problems.

Research methodology involved extensive review of the literature to appreciate background, and current research on typical accidents and safety measures taken at oil and gas construction sites to minimise accidents in a middle east country. Interviews, questionnaires and case stidies were deployed to acquire data which highlighted major reasons for accidents occurrence at oil and gas construction sites, and safety tools and techniques that could reduce accident rate if adopted by companies.

Findings, showed that oil and gas construction projects in case country were prone to health and safety related risks, challenges and accidents due to failure to comply with standards and legislation. Construction site teams and shop floor staff were rarely involved in development of safety policies, and some had no understanding of requirements and procedures underpinning safety during operations. Research recommended rapid application/adoption of international standards underpinned by ISO 45000 series and staff training at all levels. Deployment of robots and use of machine learning technology were suggested to implement risky tasks in the sector.

Research was based on rampant accidents occurring in hazardous oil and gas sector in country studied. Enforcement of health and safety standards, and use of modern tools and techniques were recommended to minimise accident rate.

]]>
Best practice for safety management – case of major oil processing country in the Middle East10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0126Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedChike F. OduozaReem AlamriDavid OlokeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-1510.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0126https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0126/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical success factors for construction industry transition to circular economy: developing countries’ perspectiveshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0129/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCircular economy (CE) is increasingly used as a system solution framework for tackling climate change. Existing CE solutions have been found effective in other sectors but ineffective in the construction sector (CS) due to the inability to account for unique CS dynamics that are essential for its success. With CS being one of the worst polluters, this research aimed to investigate critical success factors (CSFs) and a practical CE implementation framework for the sector. Mixed methods research involving descriptive surveys of construction professionals in Kazakhstan, Malaysia and Turkey was used to explore priority dimensions of McKinsey’s ReSOLVE (“regenerate, share, optimize, loop, virtualize and exchange”) circulatory framework, and the associated CSFs that underpin successful implementation of CE in the sector. Empirical data were analyzed using the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (F-AHP) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) algorithm. Results showed that “Optimize” and “Loop” were the most critical of the six dimensions of CE implementation framework for successful circularity transition of the CS in each case study country. Twenty-seven CSFs identified in the study were clustered into seven key action areas for successful rollout of the ReSOLVE framework, namely, legislative and documentation, financial, design, external/stakeholder, technological, internal and construction/production/waste management. The study makes a unique contribution to existing knowledge by exploring ReSOLVE-based CSFs for successful CE implementation in the CS through the lenses of experienced construction practitioners and experts in developing countries. The findings are expected to provide a deeper insight into the most significant CSFs to be focused on with the limited resources available to decision-makers in the CS. The findings would also inform regulatory policy reformations aimed at facilitating greater rate of implementation of CE in the construction value chain. The study – the first of its kind – established and validated a wholistic and construction-specific CE implementation framework to guide built environment professionals and policymakers in formulating a roadmap for successful CS’s transition to circularity and hopefully paving the way for improved economic, social and environmental performance of the sector.Critical success factors for construction industry transition to circular economy: developing countries’ perspectives
Kerim Koc, Serdar Durdyev, Aidana Tleuken, Omer Ekmekcioglu, Jasper Mbachu, Ferhat Karaca
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Circular economy (CE) is increasingly used as a system solution framework for tackling climate change. Existing CE solutions have been found effective in other sectors but ineffective in the construction sector (CS) due to the inability to account for unique CS dynamics that are essential for its success. With CS being one of the worst polluters, this research aimed to investigate critical success factors (CSFs) and a practical CE implementation framework for the sector.

Mixed methods research involving descriptive surveys of construction professionals in Kazakhstan, Malaysia and Turkey was used to explore priority dimensions of McKinsey’s ReSOLVE (“regenerate, share, optimize, loop, virtualize and exchange”) circulatory framework, and the associated CSFs that underpin successful implementation of CE in the sector. Empirical data were analyzed using the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (F-AHP) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) algorithm.

Results showed that “Optimize” and “Loop” were the most critical of the six dimensions of CE implementation framework for successful circularity transition of the CS in each case study country. Twenty-seven CSFs identified in the study were clustered into seven key action areas for successful rollout of the ReSOLVE framework, namely, legislative and documentation, financial, design, external/stakeholder, technological, internal and construction/production/waste management.

The study makes a unique contribution to existing knowledge by exploring ReSOLVE-based CSFs for successful CE implementation in the CS through the lenses of experienced construction practitioners and experts in developing countries. The findings are expected to provide a deeper insight into the most significant CSFs to be focused on with the limited resources available to decision-makers in the CS. The findings would also inform regulatory policy reformations aimed at facilitating greater rate of implementation of CE in the construction value chain.

The study – the first of its kind – established and validated a wholistic and construction-specific CE implementation framework to guide built environment professionals and policymakers in formulating a roadmap for successful CS’s transition to circularity and hopefully paving the way for improved economic, social and environmental performance of the sector.

]]>
Critical success factors for construction industry transition to circular economy: developing countries’ perspectives10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0129Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKerim KocSerdar DurdyevAidana TleukenOmer EkmekciogluJasper MbachuFerhat KaracaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1610.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0129https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0129/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach for climate for innovation measurement in construction firmshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0130/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to identify the climate for innovation variables and to propose an innovative tool to quantitatively assess the degree of climate for innovation of construction firms. 14 climate-for-innovation variables were identified from a literature review and discussion with experienced practitioners. After that, a questionnaire survey was developed to collect data. Factor analysis was used to analyze data gathered from 157 completed responses. Then, fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) was employed to assess the degree of climate for innovation in Vietnamese construction firms. Climate-for-innovation variables were categorized into four factors by factor analysis. The FSE analysis shows leadership is the most critical category of four factors, followed by working culture, organization and employee commitment. The calculation also illustrates that the climate for innovation in Vietnamese construction firms is at a moderate level. This research is one of the first integrated climate for innovation of construction firms in a comprehensive formulation. The formulation provides the decision-makers with a reliable tool to evaluate the degree of climate for innovation, thus having appropriate strategies to develop sustainable innovation performance within their organizations.A fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach for climate for innovation measurement in construction firms
Minh Van Nguyen, Tu Thanh Nguyen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to identify the climate for innovation variables and to propose an innovative tool to quantitatively assess the degree of climate for innovation of construction firms.

14 climate-for-innovation variables were identified from a literature review and discussion with experienced practitioners. After that, a questionnaire survey was developed to collect data. Factor analysis was used to analyze data gathered from 157 completed responses. Then, fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) was employed to assess the degree of climate for innovation in Vietnamese construction firms.

Climate-for-innovation variables were categorized into four factors by factor analysis. The FSE analysis shows leadership is the most critical category of four factors, followed by working culture, organization and employee commitment. The calculation also illustrates that the climate for innovation in Vietnamese construction firms is at a moderate level.

This research is one of the first integrated climate for innovation of construction firms in a comprehensive formulation. The formulation provides the decision-makers with a reliable tool to evaluate the degree of climate for innovation, thus having appropriate strategies to develop sustainable innovation performance within their organizations.

]]>
A fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach for climate for innovation measurement in construction firms10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0130Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMinh Van NguyenTu Thanh NguyenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-2810.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0130https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0130/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Risk accumulation assessment method for building construction based on complex networkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0149/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn the evolution process of building construction accidents, there are key nodes of risk change. This paper aims to quickly identify the key nodes and quantitatively assess the node risk. Furthermore, it is essential to propose risk accumulation assessment method of building construction. Authors analyzed 419 accidents investigation reports on building construction. In total, 39 risk factors were identified by accidents analysis. These risk factors were combined with 245 risk evolution chains. Based on those, Gephi software was used to draw the risk evolution network model for building construction. Topological parameters were applied to interpret the risk evolution network characteristic. Combining complex network with risk matrix, the standard of quantitative classification of node risk level is formulated. After quantitative analysis of node risk, 7 items of medium-risk node, 3 items of high-risk node and 2 items of higher-risk nodes are determined. The application results show that the system risk of the project is 44.67%, which is the high risk level. It can reflect the actual safety conditions of the project in a more comprehensive way. This paper determined the level of node risk only using the node degree and risk matrix. In future research, more node topological parameters that could be applied to node risk, such as clustering coefficients, mesoscopic numbers, centrality, PageRank, etc. This article can quantitatively assess the risk accumulation of building construction. It would help safety managers could clarify the system risk status. Moreover, it also contributes to reveal the correspondence between risk accumulation and accident evolution. This study comprehensively considers the likelihood, consequences and correlation to assess node risk. Based on this, single-node risk and system risk assessment methods of building construction systems were proposed. It provided a promising method and idea for the risk accumulation assessment method of building construction. Moreover, evolution process of node risk is explained from the perspective of risk accumulation.Risk accumulation assessment method for building construction based on complex network
Dongqiang Cao, Lianhua Cheng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In the evolution process of building construction accidents, there are key nodes of risk change. This paper aims to quickly identify the key nodes and quantitatively assess the node risk. Furthermore, it is essential to propose risk accumulation assessment method of building construction.

Authors analyzed 419 accidents investigation reports on building construction. In total, 39 risk factors were identified by accidents analysis. These risk factors were combined with 245 risk evolution chains. Based on those, Gephi software was used to draw the risk evolution network model for building construction. Topological parameters were applied to interpret the risk evolution network characteristic.

Combining complex network with risk matrix, the standard of quantitative classification of node risk level is formulated. After quantitative analysis of node risk, 7 items of medium-risk node, 3 items of high-risk node and 2 items of higher-risk nodes are determined. The application results show that the system risk of the project is 44.67%, which is the high risk level. It can reflect the actual safety conditions of the project in a more comprehensive way.

This paper determined the level of node risk only using the node degree and risk matrix. In future research, more node topological parameters that could be applied to node risk, such as clustering coefficients, mesoscopic numbers, centrality, PageRank, etc.

This article can quantitatively assess the risk accumulation of building construction. It would help safety managers could clarify the system risk status. Moreover, it also contributes to reveal the correspondence between risk accumulation and accident evolution.

This study comprehensively considers the likelihood, consequences and correlation to assess node risk. Based on this, single-node risk and system risk assessment methods of building construction systems were proposed. It provided a promising method and idea for the risk accumulation assessment method of building construction. Moreover, evolution process of node risk is explained from the perspective of risk accumulation.

]]>
Risk accumulation assessment method for building construction based on complex network10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0149Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDongqiang CaoLianhua ChengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1610.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0149https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0149/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Work–life balance in the construction industry: a bibliometric and narrative reviewhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0150/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe nature of construction works has a negative impact on physical, mental and emotional well-being and makes it difficult for the construction industry to attack and retain its workforce. The current study seeks to integrate the current knowledge focused on work–life balance (WLB) in the industry into an understandable whole. An interpretivist philosophical approach was adopted using a bibliometric review and a narrative review of existing studies from both Scopus and Google databases. The Visualisation of Similarities viewer (VOSviewer) was used to prepare co-occurrence maps from the bibliographic data garnered. The study reveals that the prominent factors influencing the WLB of the construction workforce are organizational culture, salary earned, heavy workload, long working hours and inflexible working time. The recent WLB discourse is on organisational commitment, job satisfaction and workplace dynamics. While WLB areas for further exploration are job stress, safety performance, employee attrition and an ageing workforce. Meanwhile, Africa and South America are still lagging in WLB research. The findings reported here will assist stakeholders in identifying appropriate WLB initiatives that can be used to improve the well-being of the construction workforce. Also, the gaps in knowledge for further research were highlighted. The findings reveal current trends and a road map for future studies on WLB in construction. It also reveals prominent factors influencing the WLB of workers in the construction industry.Work–life balance in the construction industry: a bibliometric and narrative review
Christiana Ada Adah, Douglas Omoregie Aghimien, Olalekan Oshodi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The nature of construction works has a negative impact on physical, mental and emotional well-being and makes it difficult for the construction industry to attack and retain its workforce. The current study seeks to integrate the current knowledge focused on work–life balance (WLB) in the industry into an understandable whole.

An interpretivist philosophical approach was adopted using a bibliometric review and a narrative review of existing studies from both Scopus and Google databases. The Visualisation of Similarities viewer (VOSviewer) was used to prepare co-occurrence maps from the bibliographic data garnered.

The study reveals that the prominent factors influencing the WLB of the construction workforce are organizational culture, salary earned, heavy workload, long working hours and inflexible working time. The recent WLB discourse is on organisational commitment, job satisfaction and workplace dynamics. While WLB areas for further exploration are job stress, safety performance, employee attrition and an ageing workforce. Meanwhile, Africa and South America are still lagging in WLB research.

The findings reported here will assist stakeholders in identifying appropriate WLB initiatives that can be used to improve the well-being of the construction workforce. Also, the gaps in knowledge for further research were highlighted.

The findings reveal current trends and a road map for future studies on WLB in construction. It also reveals prominent factors influencing the WLB of workers in the construction industry.

]]>
Work–life balance in the construction industry: a bibliometric and narrative review10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0150Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedChristiana Ada AdahDouglas Omoregie AghimienOlalekan OshodiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0710.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0150https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0150/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Work environment challenge and the wellbeing of women in construction industry in New Zealand – The mediating role of work moralehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0152/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to determine the effects of sexism and unfavourable job conditions on women's mental and physical wellbeing in construction operations. In addition, this study will establish the mediating role of work morale in the association between workplace challenges and wellbeing. Data for this study were obtained from women working in office environments, onsite professionals and those in trades. A total of 65 participants responded to the survey. The partial least square structural equation modelling method was applied to validate the measurement model and test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrate that benevolent and hostile sexism directly influences work morale and indirectly affects women's mental and physical wellbeing in the construction industry. Hostile sexism is the most significant challenge for female construction workers in New Zealand. The finding is theory-building and challenges the assumptions that the nature of the construction industry has a bearing on the mental and physical health of women in construction. In addition, the finding is useful for creating positive work environments that are both inclusive and empathetic to the diverse needs of the modern-day construction workforce. Thus, reducing the challenges experienced by construction women's workforce. The current study focuses on women and those who identified themselves as such. The conclusions show the relevance of work morale to their mental wellbeing. This exploratory quantitative study contributes to research by advancing understanding of the challenges women face in the industry and the consequences of those challenges on their physical and mental wellbeing.Work environment challenge and the wellbeing of women in construction industry in New Zealand – The mediating role of work morale
Funmilayo Ebun Rotimi, Marcela Brauner, Megan Burfoot, Nicola Naismith, C.W. Chathurani Silva, Mahsa Mohaghegh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to determine the effects of sexism and unfavourable job conditions on women's mental and physical wellbeing in construction operations. In addition, this study will establish the mediating role of work morale in the association between workplace challenges and wellbeing.

Data for this study were obtained from women working in office environments, onsite professionals and those in trades. A total of 65 participants responded to the survey. The partial least square structural equation modelling method was applied to validate the measurement model and test the hypotheses.

The findings demonstrate that benevolent and hostile sexism directly influences work morale and indirectly affects women's mental and physical wellbeing in the construction industry. Hostile sexism is the most significant challenge for female construction workers in New Zealand.

The finding is theory-building and challenges the assumptions that the nature of the construction industry has a bearing on the mental and physical health of women in construction. In addition, the finding is useful for creating positive work environments that are both inclusive and empathetic to the diverse needs of the modern-day construction workforce. Thus, reducing the challenges experienced by construction women's workforce.

The current study focuses on women and those who identified themselves as such. The conclusions show the relevance of work morale to their mental wellbeing. This exploratory quantitative study contributes to research by advancing understanding of the challenges women face in the industry and the consequences of those challenges on their physical and mental wellbeing.

]]>
Work environment challenge and the wellbeing of women in construction industry in New Zealand – The mediating role of work morale10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0152Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedFunmilayo Ebun RotimiMarcela BraunerMegan BurfootNicola NaismithC.W. Chathurani SilvaMahsa MohagheghEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1510.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0152https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0152/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How does top management team regulatory focus influence management innovation and performance in megaprojects: the moderating role of project uncertaintieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0159/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestExisting research on innovation has mainly focused on how to promote technological innovation in megaprojects and management innovation (MI) in megaprojects is still an unknown research field. The purposes of this study are to examine the effect of MI on megaproject performance and how the top management team (TMT) regulatory focus affects the use of MI in projects. At the same time, the moderating effects of project uncertainties are also tested. On the basis of an explorative/exploitative ambidextrous analysis framework, this study divides MI into two dimensions: explorative and exploitative MI, and integrates the theoretical perspectives of the TMT regulatory focus and project uncertainties into a research model. Taking 314 responses from megaprojects’ TMTs in China as research data, this study empirically tests the above model. Results show that exploratory MI has a U-shaped relationship with megaproject performance; whereas exploitative MI has an inverted U-shaped relationship with megaproject performance. The TMT promotion focus has a positive effect on exploratory and exploitative MI; and the TMT prevention focus has a negative effect on exploratory MI but has a positive effect on exploitative MI. Project uncertainties have a positive moderating effect on the positive relationship between TMT promotion focus and exploratory MI, whereas it has a negative moderating effect on the negative relationship between the TMT prevention focus and exploratory MI. By empirically measuring the relationship between two types of MIs and megaproject performance, this study clarifies the differential mechanism of the effect of different MIs on megaproject performance. This study also examines the MI of megaprojects from the perspective of the TMT regulatory focus and expounds how changes in uncertainties affect the relationship between the TMT regulatory focus and MI.How does top management team regulatory focus influence management innovation and performance in megaprojects: the moderating role of project uncertainties
Li Ma, Yongqiang Lu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Existing research on innovation has mainly focused on how to promote technological innovation in megaprojects and management innovation (MI) in megaprojects is still an unknown research field. The purposes of this study are to examine the effect of MI on megaproject performance and how the top management team (TMT) regulatory focus affects the use of MI in projects. At the same time, the moderating effects of project uncertainties are also tested.

On the basis of an explorative/exploitative ambidextrous analysis framework, this study divides MI into two dimensions: explorative and exploitative MI, and integrates the theoretical perspectives of the TMT regulatory focus and project uncertainties into a research model. Taking 314 responses from megaprojects’ TMTs in China as research data, this study empirically tests the above model.

Results show that exploratory MI has a U-shaped relationship with megaproject performance; whereas exploitative MI has an inverted U-shaped relationship with megaproject performance. The TMT promotion focus has a positive effect on exploratory and exploitative MI; and the TMT prevention focus has a negative effect on exploratory MI but has a positive effect on exploitative MI. Project uncertainties have a positive moderating effect on the positive relationship between TMT promotion focus and exploratory MI, whereas it has a negative moderating effect on the negative relationship between the TMT prevention focus and exploratory MI.

By empirically measuring the relationship between two types of MIs and megaproject performance, this study clarifies the differential mechanism of the effect of different MIs on megaproject performance. This study also examines the MI of megaprojects from the perspective of the TMT regulatory focus and expounds how changes in uncertainties affect the relationship between the TMT regulatory focus and MI.

]]>
How does top management team regulatory focus influence management innovation and performance in megaprojects: the moderating role of project uncertainties10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0159Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLi MaYongqiang LuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1010.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0159https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0159/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barrier identification, analysis and solutions of blockchain adoption in construction: a fuzzy DEMATEL and TOE integrated methodhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0168/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBlockchain has the potential to facilitate a paradigm shift in the construction industry toward effectiveness, transparency and collaboration. However, there is currently a paucity of empirical evidence from real-world construction projects. This study aims to systematically review blockchain adoption barriers, investigate critical ones and propose corresponding solutions. An integrated method was adopted in this research based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) theory and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. Blockchain adoption barriers were first presented using the TOE framework. Then, key barriers were identified based on the importance and causality analysis in the fuzzy DEMATEL. Several suggestions were proposed to facilitate blockchain diffusion from the standpoints of the government, the industry and construction organizations. The results highlighted seven key barriers. Specifically, the construction industry is more concerned with environmental barriers, such as policy uncertainties (E2) and technology maturity (E3), while most technical barriers are causal factors, such as “interoperability (T4)” and “smart contracts' security (T2)”. This study contributes to a better understanding of the problem associated with blockchain implementation and provides policymakers with recommendations. Identified TOE barriers lay the groundwork for theoretical observations to comprehend the blockchain adoption problem. This research also applied the fuzzy method to blockchain adoption barrier analysis, which can reduce the uncertainty and subjectivity in expert evaluations with a small sample.Barrier identification, analysis and solutions of blockchain adoption in construction: a fuzzy DEMATEL and TOE integrated method
Haitao Wu, Wenyan Zhong, Botao Zhong, Heng Li, Jiadong Guo, Imran Mehmood
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Blockchain has the potential to facilitate a paradigm shift in the construction industry toward effectiveness, transparency and collaboration. However, there is currently a paucity of empirical evidence from real-world construction projects. This study aims to systematically review blockchain adoption barriers, investigate critical ones and propose corresponding solutions.

An integrated method was adopted in this research based on the technology–organization–environment (TOE) theory and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) approach. Blockchain adoption barriers were first presented using the TOE framework. Then, key barriers were identified based on the importance and causality analysis in the fuzzy DEMATEL. Several suggestions were proposed to facilitate blockchain diffusion from the standpoints of the government, the industry and construction organizations.

The results highlighted seven key barriers. Specifically, the construction industry is more concerned with environmental barriers, such as policy uncertainties (E2) and technology maturity (E3), while most technical barriers are causal factors, such as “interoperability (T4)” and “smart contracts' security (T2)”.

This study contributes to a better understanding of the problem associated with blockchain implementation and provides policymakers with recommendations.

Identified TOE barriers lay the groundwork for theoretical observations to comprehend the blockchain adoption problem. This research also applied the fuzzy method to blockchain adoption barrier analysis, which can reduce the uncertainty and subjectivity in expert evaluations with a small sample.

]]>
Barrier identification, analysis and solutions of blockchain adoption in construction: a fuzzy DEMATEL and TOE integrated method10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0168Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHaitao WuWenyan ZhongBotao ZhongHeng LiJiadong GuoImran MehmoodEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2010.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0168https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0168/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Resilient performance on construction projects in the post-pandemic era: an organizational perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0170/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe COVID-19 pandemic offered a unique glimpse into the resilience of construction projects, shedding light on several learning opportunities. The purpose of this paper is to develop propositions for the improvement of resilient performance in construction in the post-pandemic era. The propositions were developed based on an empirical study in Brazil. Data collection involved the analysis of regulations, interviews with health experts, managers, and workers, in addition to non-participant observations of the use of 37 control practices in 39 construction sites comparing the work-as-imagined and the work-as-done. The practices were classified in a hierarchy of controls. Seven propositions for the improvement of resilient performance were developed, addressing collaboration between construction companies, slack resources, new health and safety practices, production planning and control, digital technologies, visual management, and organizational culture. These propositions emphasize organizational support for resilience. This is in contrast to the nature of most observed practices (57%) that relied on administrative controls and personal protective equipment, which are measures dependent on behaviors that resemble resilience at the individual level. Although much has been studied on COVID-19 implications for construction projects, previous empirical studies have not adopted the organizational resilience perspective as the main theoretical background.Resilient performance on construction projects in the post-pandemic era: an organizational perspective
Mirela Schramm Tonetto, Carlos Torres Formoso, Tarcisio Abreu Saurin, Fabiana Bonesi De Luca, Fernanda Pavan Lora, Elvira Lantelme
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The COVID-19 pandemic offered a unique glimpse into the resilience of construction projects, shedding light on several learning opportunities. The purpose of this paper is to develop propositions for the improvement of resilient performance in construction in the post-pandemic era.

The propositions were developed based on an empirical study in Brazil. Data collection involved the analysis of regulations, interviews with health experts, managers, and workers, in addition to non-participant observations of the use of 37 control practices in 39 construction sites comparing the work-as-imagined and the work-as-done. The practices were classified in a hierarchy of controls.

Seven propositions for the improvement of resilient performance were developed, addressing collaboration between construction companies, slack resources, new health and safety practices, production planning and control, digital technologies, visual management, and organizational culture. These propositions emphasize organizational support for resilience. This is in contrast to the nature of most observed practices (57%) that relied on administrative controls and personal protective equipment, which are measures dependent on behaviors that resemble resilience at the individual level.

Although much has been studied on COVID-19 implications for construction projects, previous empirical studies have not adopted the organizational resilience perspective as the main theoretical background.

]]>
Resilient performance on construction projects in the post-pandemic era: an organizational perspective10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0170Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMirela Schramm TonettoCarlos Torres FormosoTarcisio Abreu SaurinFabiana Bonesi De LucaFernanda Pavan LoraElvira LantelmeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1910.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0170https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0170/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Intelligent detection on construction project contract missing clauses based on deep learning and NLPhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0172/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe number of construction dispute cases has maintained a high growth trend in recent years. The effective exploration and management of construction contract risk can directly promote the overall performance of the project life cycle. The miss of clauses may result in a failure to match with standard contracts. If the contract, modified by the owner, omits key clauses, potential disputes may lead to contractors paying substantial compensation. Therefore, the identification of construction project contract missing clauses has heavily relied on the manual review technique, which is inefficient and highly restricted by personnel experience. The existing intelligent means only work for the contract query and storage. It is urgent to raise the level of intelligence for contract clause management. Therefore, this paper aims to propose an intelligent method to detect construction project contract missing clauses based on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and deep learning technology. A complete classification scheme of contract clauses is designed based on NLP. First, construction contract texts are pre-processed and converted from unstructured natural language into structured digital vector form. Following the initial categorization, a multi-label classification of long text construction contract clauses is designed to preliminary identify whether the clause labels are missing. After the multi-label clause missing detection, the authors implement a clause similarity algorithm by creatively integrating the image detection thought, MatchPyramid model, with BERT to identify missing substantial content in the contract clauses. 1,322 construction project contracts were tested. Results showed that the accuracy of multi-label classification could reach 93%, the accuracy of similarity matching can reach 83%, and the recall rate and F1 mean of both can reach more than 0.7. The experimental results verify the feasibility of intelligently detecting contract risk through the NLP-based method to some extent. NLP is adept at recognizing textual content and has shown promising results in some contract processing applications. However, the mostly used approaches of its utilization for risk detection in construction contract clauses predominantly are rule-based, which encounter challenges when handling intricate and lengthy engineering contracts. This paper introduces an NLP technique based on deep learning which reduces manual intervention and can autonomously identify and tag types of contractual deficiencies, aligning with the evolving complexities anticipated in future construction contracts. Moreover, this method achieves the recognition of extended contract clause texts. Ultimately, this approach boasts versatility; users simply need to adjust parameters such as segmentation based on language categories to detect omissions in contract clauses of diverse languages.Intelligent detection on construction project contract missing clauses based on deep learning and NLP
Hong Zhou, Binwei Gao, Shilong Tang, Bing Li, Shuyu Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The number of construction dispute cases has maintained a high growth trend in recent years. The effective exploration and management of construction contract risk can directly promote the overall performance of the project life cycle. The miss of clauses may result in a failure to match with standard contracts. If the contract, modified by the owner, omits key clauses, potential disputes may lead to contractors paying substantial compensation. Therefore, the identification of construction project contract missing clauses has heavily relied on the manual review technique, which is inefficient and highly restricted by personnel experience. The existing intelligent means only work for the contract query and storage. It is urgent to raise the level of intelligence for contract clause management. Therefore, this paper aims to propose an intelligent method to detect construction project contract missing clauses based on Natural Language Processing (NLP) and deep learning technology.

A complete classification scheme of contract clauses is designed based on NLP. First, construction contract texts are pre-processed and converted from unstructured natural language into structured digital vector form. Following the initial categorization, a multi-label classification of long text construction contract clauses is designed to preliminary identify whether the clause labels are missing. After the multi-label clause missing detection, the authors implement a clause similarity algorithm by creatively integrating the image detection thought, MatchPyramid model, with BERT to identify missing substantial content in the contract clauses.

1,322 construction project contracts were tested. Results showed that the accuracy of multi-label classification could reach 93%, the accuracy of similarity matching can reach 83%, and the recall rate and F1 mean of both can reach more than 0.7. The experimental results verify the feasibility of intelligently detecting contract risk through the NLP-based method to some extent.

NLP is adept at recognizing textual content and has shown promising results in some contract processing applications. However, the mostly used approaches of its utilization for risk detection in construction contract clauses predominantly are rule-based, which encounter challenges when handling intricate and lengthy engineering contracts. This paper introduces an NLP technique based on deep learning which reduces manual intervention and can autonomously identify and tag types of contractual deficiencies, aligning with the evolving complexities anticipated in future construction contracts. Moreover, this method achieves the recognition of extended contract clause texts. Ultimately, this approach boasts versatility; users simply need to adjust parameters such as segmentation based on language categories to detect omissions in contract clauses of diverse languages.

]]>
Intelligent detection on construction project contract missing clauses based on deep learning and NLP10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0172Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHong ZhouBinwei GaoShilong TangBing LiShuyu WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3110.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0172https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0172/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A study on the key drivers of national construction project audit risk and evolvement mechanismhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0176/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestChina has recently introduced a new audit law that aims to increase the scope of audit supervision and raise the standards for preventing risks in auditing national public projects. This paper presents a systematic research study on the causes of audit risks in national public projects and discusses the process by which these causes contribute to the emergence of such risks. Furthermore, the paper investigates the core risk sources in various types of national construction project audit. This paper aims to provide theoretical support for auditors of national construction projects in risk avoidance when conducting audits. In this study, the authors carefully selected five national public audit projects from China and performed a comprehensive analysis of 85 relevant audit documentation. The textual analysis was conducted using Nvivo12 software, and the grounded theory approach was adopted for generalization purposes. Based on the research results, the findings suggest that there are five key causes contributing to the audit risk of national construction projects: professional competence, risk awareness, management capacity, level of attention and deliberate fraud. The most critical factor identified is management capability, with 59.93% of the data supporting this view. This conclusion was based on an analysis of state-owned enterprises, administrative organs and public institutions. Building upon this, a framework titled “the mechanism of audit risk factors with management capability as the core” was constructed. This paper employs qualitative analysis methods to examine national construction projects in China, contributing new literature to the theoretical study of audit risk management. The article also provides practical recommendations for auditors on how to mitigate audit risks and improve the quality of audit services in national project governance.A study on the key drivers of national construction project audit risk and evolvement mechanism
Mianzhi Yang, Qing Hui, Qingru Yang, Mengwei Fan, Xin Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

China has recently introduced a new audit law that aims to increase the scope of audit supervision and raise the standards for preventing risks in auditing national public projects. This paper presents a systematic research study on the causes of audit risks in national public projects and discusses the process by which these causes contribute to the emergence of such risks. Furthermore, the paper investigates the core risk sources in various types of national construction project audit. This paper aims to provide theoretical support for auditors of national construction projects in risk avoidance when conducting audits.

In this study, the authors carefully selected five national public audit projects from China and performed a comprehensive analysis of 85 relevant audit documentation. The textual analysis was conducted using Nvivo12 software, and the grounded theory approach was adopted for generalization purposes.

Based on the research results, the findings suggest that there are five key causes contributing to the audit risk of national construction projects: professional competence, risk awareness, management capacity, level of attention and deliberate fraud. The most critical factor identified is management capability, with 59.93% of the data supporting this view. This conclusion was based on an analysis of state-owned enterprises, administrative organs and public institutions. Building upon this, a framework titled “the mechanism of audit risk factors with management capability as the core” was constructed.

This paper employs qualitative analysis methods to examine national construction projects in China, contributing new literature to the theoretical study of audit risk management. The article also provides practical recommendations for auditors on how to mitigate audit risks and improve the quality of audit services in national project governance.

]]>
A study on the key drivers of national construction project audit risk and evolvement mechanism10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0176Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMianzhi YangQing HuiQingru YangMengwei FanXin LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2710.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0176https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0176/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Work–family conflict and work engagement among construction professionals: role of psychological contract breach and genderhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0181/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWork–family conflict (WFC) is rife among construction professionals, leading to a significant negative impact on their work engagement. Building on an extant body of research, this study provides nuanced insights into the link between WFC, work–life balance (WLB) and work engagement and identifies the boundary conditions of these relationships. Data were collected from 257 dyads of construction professionals and their immediate supervisors from a sample of five construction firms based in India using an online survey. The results found that WLB mediates the relationship between WFC and work engagement, and the relationship is controlled by professionals' gender and perceptions of psychological contract breach (PCB). An important finding is that PCB accentuates the negative influence of WFC on work engagement via WLB. The study also reveals that the negative impact of WFC on WLB is stronger for women. The findings are relevant for construction firms since they are primarily dominated by men and continue to struggle to attract more women professionals. The study insights provide avenues to expand existing research on the relationship between WFC and work engagement and offer managerial implications for improving construction professionals' work engagement in the high-pressure context of the construction industry. The study significantly advances the underdeveloped literature on work–family interface, especially in the unique work settings of the construction industry, by establishing WFC as a predictor and revealing how engagement at work is affected. It highlights the importance of boundary conditions such as gender and PCB. It is one of the first to assess the relationship between WFC, WLB, PCB and work engagement among construction professionals in India.Work–family conflict and work engagement among construction professionals: role of psychological contract breach and gender
Upasna A. Agarwal, Rupashree Baral, Mansi Rastogi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Work–family conflict (WFC) is rife among construction professionals, leading to a significant negative impact on their work engagement. Building on an extant body of research, this study provides nuanced insights into the link between WFC, work–life balance (WLB) and work engagement and identifies the boundary conditions of these relationships.

Data were collected from 257 dyads of construction professionals and their immediate supervisors from a sample of five construction firms based in India using an online survey.

The results found that WLB mediates the relationship between WFC and work engagement, and the relationship is controlled by professionals' gender and perceptions of psychological contract breach (PCB). An important finding is that PCB accentuates the negative influence of WFC on work engagement via WLB. The study also reveals that the negative impact of WFC on WLB is stronger for women.

The findings are relevant for construction firms since they are primarily dominated by men and continue to struggle to attract more women professionals. The study insights provide avenues to expand existing research on the relationship between WFC and work engagement and offer managerial implications for improving construction professionals' work engagement in the high-pressure context of the construction industry.

The study significantly advances the underdeveloped literature on work–family interface, especially in the unique work settings of the construction industry, by establishing WFC as a predictor and revealing how engagement at work is affected. It highlights the importance of boundary conditions such as gender and PCB. It is one of the first to assess the relationship between WFC, WLB, PCB and work engagement among construction professionals in India.

]]>
Work–family conflict and work engagement among construction professionals: role of psychological contract breach and gender10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0181Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedUpasna A. AgarwalRupashree BaralMansi RastogiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-1210.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0181https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-02-2023-0181/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Training needs of built environment professionals: the role of fourth industrial revolutionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0212/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestStudies show that the twenty-first-century construction industry needs reskilling and upskilling tools to train large numbers of the workforce for better-integrated project delivery. Evidence shows that digitisation via the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technology can play a critical role in reskilling and competency demand. Attempting to use digital technology may have had some challenges. Studies about the perceived hindrances facing Nigeria's built environment professionals (BEP) reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace via 4IR technologies are scarce. Thus, the study investigated the perceived encumbrances facing Nigeria's BEP training needs and proffered measures to improve their performance in the workplace via 4IR technologies. The researchers engaged BEP in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. Regarding the data collection, a qualitative research design was adopted. The study achieved saturation after 32 virtual interviews. A thematic analysis was adopted for the collected data. The study shows that using 4IR for reskilling and upskilling will enhance integrated project delivery. But the level of usage in training needs is low. Findings identified the various ways reskilling and upskilling could be achieved. Also identified are the major built environment areas that require 4IR training. Findings highlighted possible encumbrances facing the use of 4IR technologies by Nigerian BEP for reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace and proffered feasible measures to improve 4IR usage for training needs. The study is restricted to the perceived encumbrances and proffers measures to improve BEP reskilling and upskilling needs via 4IR technologies via a qualitative method. Future research is required to validate the findings and test the proposed framework that emerged from the study. The study confirms that reskilling and upskilling measures are required at all skill levels and may lead to economic growth. The paper would advance Nigerian higher educational accreditation agencies and various BEP regulatory bodies to review the curriculum and incorporate 4IR as a component or module. The thematic network analysis and proposed framework could be utilised to stimulate Nigeria's BEP reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace via 4IR technologies. It would stir main stakeholders, especially government policymakers, to facilitate programmes to improve 4IR technologies usage.Training needs of built environment professionals: the role of fourth industrial revolution
Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, John Aliu, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Studies show that the twenty-first-century construction industry needs reskilling and upskilling tools to train large numbers of the workforce for better-integrated project delivery. Evidence shows that digitisation via the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technology can play a critical role in reskilling and competency demand. Attempting to use digital technology may have had some challenges. Studies about the perceived hindrances facing Nigeria's built environment professionals (BEP) reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace via 4IR technologies are scarce. Thus, the study investigated the perceived encumbrances facing Nigeria's BEP training needs and proffered measures to improve their performance in the workplace via 4IR technologies.

The researchers engaged BEP in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. Regarding the data collection, a qualitative research design was adopted. The study achieved saturation after 32 virtual interviews. A thematic analysis was adopted for the collected data.

The study shows that using 4IR for reskilling and upskilling will enhance integrated project delivery. But the level of usage in training needs is low. Findings identified the various ways reskilling and upskilling could be achieved. Also identified are the major built environment areas that require 4IR training. Findings highlighted possible encumbrances facing the use of 4IR technologies by Nigerian BEP for reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace and proffered feasible measures to improve 4IR usage for training needs.

The study is restricted to the perceived encumbrances and proffers measures to improve BEP reskilling and upskilling needs via 4IR technologies via a qualitative method. Future research is required to validate the findings and test the proposed framework that emerged from the study.

The study confirms that reskilling and upskilling measures are required at all skill levels and may lead to economic growth. The paper would advance Nigerian higher educational accreditation agencies and various BEP regulatory bodies to review the curriculum and incorporate 4IR as a component or module.

The thematic network analysis and proposed framework could be utilised to stimulate Nigeria's BEP reskilling and upskilling needs in the workplace via 4IR technologies. It would stir main stakeholders, especially government policymakers, to facilitate programmes to improve 4IR technologies usage.

]]>
Training needs of built environment professionals: the role of fourth industrial revolution10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0212Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAndrew EbekozienClinton Ohis AigbavboaSamuel Adeniyi AdekunleJohn AliuWellington Didibhuku ThwalaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-0410.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0212https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0212/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Macro investigation on China's engineering insurance industry: based on industrial organization theorieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0219/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn China, engineering insurance has been questioned as not being beneficial as expected. This paper seeks to further understand how China's engineering insurance industry functions and to provide a macro perspective explanation for engineering insurance's underdevelopment. Three industrial organization hypotheses were extended to the engineering insurance context: structure conduct performance (SCP), relative market power (RMP) and efficiency structure (ES) hypotheses. This paper employed the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) bootstrap to test the hypotheses using panel data from 2008 to 2017. The results suggest that the SCP paradigm is validated in China's engineering insurance market, indicating a concentrated market where the welfare of consumers (e.g. owners, contractors and designers) may be eroded. Several factors are identified to have significant impacts on engineering insurers' performance, such as the investment return, percentage of engineering business, the ratio of outstanding claims, the number of large contractors, market rivalry and entry barriers. Despite the sheer size of China's construction industry and the urgent need to improve risk management, the insurance industry that serves construction firms engineering insurance is underdeveloped. Engineering insurance is yet to be understood from a macro perspective, which may reveal the underlying reasons for engineering insurance's underdevelopment. The industrial organization theories provided a theoretical framework to test the functioning of this specific industry. The disaggregated data (engineering line specific) is employed to ensure effective regulation and policymaking.Macro investigation on China's engineering insurance industry: based on industrial organization theories
Xiaowei Zhou, Yousong Wang, Yangbing Zhang, Fangfang Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In China, engineering insurance has been questioned as not being beneficial as expected. This paper seeks to further understand how China's engineering insurance industry functions and to provide a macro perspective explanation for engineering insurance's underdevelopment.

Three industrial organization hypotheses were extended to the engineering insurance context: structure conduct performance (SCP), relative market power (RMP) and efficiency structure (ES) hypotheses. This paper employed the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) bootstrap to test the hypotheses using panel data from 2008 to 2017.

The results suggest that the SCP paradigm is validated in China's engineering insurance market, indicating a concentrated market where the welfare of consumers (e.g. owners, contractors and designers) may be eroded. Several factors are identified to have significant impacts on engineering insurers' performance, such as the investment return, percentage of engineering business, the ratio of outstanding claims, the number of large contractors, market rivalry and entry barriers.

Despite the sheer size of China's construction industry and the urgent need to improve risk management, the insurance industry that serves construction firms engineering insurance is underdeveloped. Engineering insurance is yet to be understood from a macro perspective, which may reveal the underlying reasons for engineering insurance's underdevelopment. The industrial organization theories provided a theoretical framework to test the functioning of this specific industry. The disaggregated data (engineering line specific) is employed to ensure effective regulation and policymaking.

]]>
Macro investigation on China's engineering insurance industry: based on industrial organization theories10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0219Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaowei ZhouYousong WangYangbing ZhangFangfang LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0219https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0219/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical factors influencing learning from quality failures in the construction of grid infrastructurehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0229/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestQuality failures in grid infrastructure construction would cause large-scale collapses in power supply and additional expenditures by reworks and repairs. Learning from quality failures (LFQF) extracts experience from previous quality events and converts them into preventive measures to reduce or eliminate future construction quality issues. This study aims to investigate the influence factors of LFQF in the construction of grid infrastructure. The related factors of LFQF, including quality management (QM) practices, quality rectification, and individual learning, were identified by reviewing literature about organizational learning and extracting experience from previous failures. A questionnaire survey was distributed to the grid companies in North, Northeast, Northwest, East, Central, and Southwest China. 381 valid responses collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the influence of these factors on LFQF. The SEM results support that QM practices positively affect individual learning and LFQF. Quality rectification indirectly impacts LFQF via individual learning, while the results did not support the direct link between quality rectification and LFQF. The findings strengthen practical insights into extracting experience from poor-quality issues and continuous improvement. The contributory factors of LFQF found in this study benefit the practitioners by taking effective measures to enhance organizational learning capability and improve the long-term construction quality performance in the grid infrastructure industry. Existing research about the application of LFQF still stays at the explorative and conceptual stage. This study investigates the related factors of LFQF, including QM practices, quality rectification, and individual learning, extending the model development of learning from failures (LFF) in construction QM.Critical factors influencing learning from quality failures in the construction of grid infrastructure
Qing-Wen Zhang, Pin-Chao Liao, Mingxuan Liang, Albert P.C. Chan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Quality failures in grid infrastructure construction would cause large-scale collapses in power supply and additional expenditures by reworks and repairs. Learning from quality failures (LFQF) extracts experience from previous quality events and converts them into preventive measures to reduce or eliminate future construction quality issues. This study aims to investigate the influence factors of LFQF in the construction of grid infrastructure.

The related factors of LFQF, including quality management (QM) practices, quality rectification, and individual learning, were identified by reviewing literature about organizational learning and extracting experience from previous failures. A questionnaire survey was distributed to the grid companies in North, Northeast, Northwest, East, Central, and Southwest China. 381 valid responses collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the influence of these factors on LFQF.

The SEM results support that QM practices positively affect individual learning and LFQF. Quality rectification indirectly impacts LFQF via individual learning, while the results did not support the direct link between quality rectification and LFQF.

The findings strengthen practical insights into extracting experience from poor-quality issues and continuous improvement. The contributory factors of LFQF found in this study benefit the practitioners by taking effective measures to enhance organizational learning capability and improve the long-term construction quality performance in the grid infrastructure industry.

Existing research about the application of LFQF still stays at the explorative and conceptual stage. This study investigates the related factors of LFQF, including QM practices, quality rectification, and individual learning, extending the model development of learning from failures (LFF) in construction QM.

]]>
Critical factors influencing learning from quality failures in the construction of grid infrastructure10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0229Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-07© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedQing-Wen ZhangPin-Chao LiaoMingxuan LiangAlbert P.C. ChanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-0710.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0229https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0229/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Effects of the host-country institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterpriseshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0231/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe operation mode of enterprises will affect its resource commitment in the host country, involving different costs and time, as well as risks. Yet, the current state of knowledge about how the institutional environment affects the operation mode change of international construction enterprises is equivocal. This study aims to explore the impact of a host country's institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises. First, this study proposes a model on the impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises. Second, this study used the Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI) published by the World Bank and a questionnaire survey to collect data. Finally, the study employs a multiple regression methodology to test the hypothesis and discusses the results. Results highlight that the important impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises. The results showed that enterprises are more willing to increase resource commitments under the condition of stable institutional environment. In addition, enterprises' market-specific experience and general international experience, as moderating variables, weaken the impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change. However, general international experience has no significant moderating effect. The findings of this study provide practical implications for the investment risk assessment of international construction enterprises. Enterprises need to consider the change in institutional quality and institutional instability of the host country, as well as their own international experience when changing operation mode. This study extends internationalization theory to the international construction field and provided theoretical guidance for the mechanism of operation mode change of international construction enterprises.Effects of the host-country institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises
Zhixiu Wang, Lifeng Shi, Haiqian Cui
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The operation mode of enterprises will affect its resource commitment in the host country, involving different costs and time, as well as risks. Yet, the current state of knowledge about how the institutional environment affects the operation mode change of international construction enterprises is equivocal. This study aims to explore the impact of a host country's institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises.

First, this study proposes a model on the impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises. Second, this study used the Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI) published by the World Bank and a questionnaire survey to collect data. Finally, the study employs a multiple regression methodology to test the hypothesis and discusses the results.

Results highlight that the important impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises. The results showed that enterprises are more willing to increase resource commitments under the condition of stable institutional environment. In addition, enterprises' market-specific experience and general international experience, as moderating variables, weaken the impact of the institutional environment on the operation mode change. However, general international experience has no significant moderating effect.

The findings of this study provide practical implications for the investment risk assessment of international construction enterprises. Enterprises need to consider the change in institutional quality and institutional instability of the host country, as well as their own international experience when changing operation mode.

This study extends internationalization theory to the international construction field and provided theoretical guidance for the mechanism of operation mode change of international construction enterprises.

]]>
Effects of the host-country institutional environment on the operation mode change of international construction enterprises10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0231Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhixiu WangLifeng ShiHaiqian CuiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1410.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0231https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0231/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The development model of sustainable campus based on green buildings: a systematic comparative study between Japan and Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0236/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe research on sustainable campus is related to environmental protection and the realization of global sustainable development goals (SDGs). Because the sustainable campus development in China and Japan is carried out around buildings, this paper takes Kitakyushu Science and Research Park as a case to study the characteristics and typical model of sustainable campus in Japan by combined with the characteristics of Chinese sustainable campus. This study compares the evaluation standards of green buildings between China and Japan, then compares the assessment results of the same typical green building case and finally summarizes the development mode and main realization path by discussing the implications of green buildings on campus sustainability. The results show that (1) the sustainable campus evaluation in Japan mainly pays attention to the indoor environment, energy utilization and environmental problems. (2) Buildings mainly affect the sustainability of the campus in three aspects: construction, transportation and local. (3) The sustainable campus development model of Science and Research Park can be summarized as follows: taking green building as the core; SDGs as the goals; education as the guarantee; and the integration of industry, education and research as the characteristics. It mainly provides construction experience for other campuses around the world to coordinate the contradictions between campus buildings and the environment based on sustainable principles in their own construction. It proposes a new sustainable campus construction path of “building–region–environment” integrated development. This study provides theoretical framework for the development of sustainable campuses that includes long-term construction ideas and current technological support greatly improving the operability of practical applications. It not only enriches the sample cases of global sustainable campuses but also provides new ideas and perspectives for the sustainable development research of the overall campus through quantitative evaluation of building and environmental impacts.The development model of sustainable campus based on green buildings: a systematic comparative study between Japan and China
Bifeng Zhu, Gebing Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The research on sustainable campus is related to environmental protection and the realization of global sustainable development goals (SDGs). Because the sustainable campus development in China and Japan is carried out around buildings, this paper takes Kitakyushu Science and Research Park as a case to study the characteristics and typical model of sustainable campus in Japan by combined with the characteristics of Chinese sustainable campus.

This study compares the evaluation standards of green buildings between China and Japan, then compares the assessment results of the same typical green building case and finally summarizes the development mode and main realization path by discussing the implications of green buildings on campus sustainability.

The results show that (1) the sustainable campus evaluation in Japan mainly pays attention to the indoor environment, energy utilization and environmental problems. (2) Buildings mainly affect the sustainability of the campus in three aspects: construction, transportation and local. (3) The sustainable campus development model of Science and Research Park can be summarized as follows: taking green building as the core; SDGs as the goals; education as the guarantee; and the integration of industry, education and research as the characteristics.

It mainly provides construction experience for other campuses around the world to coordinate the contradictions between campus buildings and the environment based on sustainable principles in their own construction. It proposes a new sustainable campus construction path of “building–region–environment” integrated development.

This study provides theoretical framework for the development of sustainable campuses that includes long-term construction ideas and current technological support greatly improving the operability of practical applications. It not only enriches the sample cases of global sustainable campuses but also provides new ideas and perspectives for the sustainable development research of the overall campus through quantitative evaluation of building and environmental impacts.

]]>
The development model of sustainable campus based on green buildings: a systematic comparative study between Japan and China10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0236Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedBifeng ZhuGebing LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2110.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0236https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0236/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing countryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0241/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country's perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages. The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis. The study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement related factors. The findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation. While there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particular at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing country
Emmanuel Chidiebere Eze, Douglas Omoregie Aghimien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Onyinye Sofolahan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country's perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages.

The study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis.

The study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement related factors.

The findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation.

While there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particular at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.

]]>
Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing country10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0241Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-19© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedEmmanuel Chidiebere EzeDouglas Omoregie AghimienClinton Ohis AigbavboaOnyinye SofolahanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1910.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0241https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0241/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
How cultural intelligence affects expatriate effectiveness in international construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0247/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to investigate the influence mechanism of expatriates' cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate effectiveness (task performance and premature return intention), identifying work engagement as a mediator and cultural distance as a boundary condition. Drawing on the conservation of resource theory and the person–environment fit (P–E fit) theory, a moderated mediation model is built. Working with a sample of 303 international construction expatriates collected by snowball sampling, the hypotheses are tested by using the structural equation model analysis. Work engagement partially mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and task performance, as well as fully mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and premature return intention. Cultural distance moderates the positive relationship between CQ and work engagement, as well as moderates the mediating effects of work engagement. The impacts of potential moderators (e.g. work–family conflict and organizational culture) on the relationship between CQ and expatriate effectiveness have not been considered in this study. This study is useful for international construction firms to optimize the allocation of human resources. This study contributes to the expatriate literature by adding empirical evidence to explain the influence mechanism of expatriates' CQ on expatriate effectiveness.How cultural intelligence affects expatriate effectiveness in international construction projects
Yuan Chen, Ziyue Yang, Bingsheng Liu, Dan Wang, Yan Xiao, Anmin Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to investigate the influence mechanism of expatriates' cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate effectiveness (task performance and premature return intention), identifying work engagement as a mediator and cultural distance as a boundary condition.

Drawing on the conservation of resource theory and the person–environment fit (P–E fit) theory, a moderated mediation model is built. Working with a sample of 303 international construction expatriates collected by snowball sampling, the hypotheses are tested by using the structural equation model analysis.

Work engagement partially mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and task performance, as well as fully mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and premature return intention. Cultural distance moderates the positive relationship between CQ and work engagement, as well as moderates the mediating effects of work engagement.

The impacts of potential moderators (e.g. work–family conflict and organizational culture) on the relationship between CQ and expatriate effectiveness have not been considered in this study.

This study is useful for international construction firms to optimize the allocation of human resources.

This study contributes to the expatriate literature by adding empirical evidence to explain the influence mechanism of expatriates' CQ on expatriate effectiveness.

]]>
How cultural intelligence affects expatriate effectiveness in international construction projects10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0247Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-12© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYuan ChenZiyue YangBingsheng LiuDan WangYan XiaoAnmin WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1210.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0247https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0247/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Principles for adopting offsite construction in design and construction companies focused on multifamily projects in the USAhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0262/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study focuses on identifying key principles for implementing strategic changes in design and construction companies interested in successfully using offsite construction (OSC) in multifamily housing projects, considering the need for more affordable and sustainable multifamily housing in the United States of America (USA). Using mixed methods, the study involved three phases of data collection and data analysis: (1) delphi survey, (2) online survey, (3) proposition of principles and validation interviews. The key principles identified by the present research are (1) develop product-oriented business model, (2) promote leadership and mindset engagement with OSC principles, (3) engage in partnerships and more innovative contractual models, (4) shift toward digital transformation, (5) develop training and knowledge management strategies, (6) adopt lean construction (LC) practices, (7) develop training and knowledge management strategies and (8) integrate logistics and supply chain management with AEC (architecture, engineering and construction) processes. The implementation of the principles and strategic changes identified in this study aims to prepare design and construction companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to embrace the increasing use of OSC in multifamily projects in the USA, which will make them more efficient and resilient and, ultimately, will contribute to the construction of more affordable and sustainable multifamily housing projects in the USA. This is the first research to address holistic strategies to support design and construction companies in adopting OSC.Principles for adopting offsite construction in design and construction companies focused on multifamily projects in the USA
Sara Gusmao Brissi, Luciana Debs
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study focuses on identifying key principles for implementing strategic changes in design and construction companies interested in successfully using offsite construction (OSC) in multifamily housing projects, considering the need for more affordable and sustainable multifamily housing in the United States of America (USA).

Using mixed methods, the study involved three phases of data collection and data analysis: (1) delphi survey, (2) online survey, (3) proposition of principles and validation interviews.

The key principles identified by the present research are (1) develop product-oriented business model, (2) promote leadership and mindset engagement with OSC principles, (3) engage in partnerships and more innovative contractual models, (4) shift toward digital transformation, (5) develop training and knowledge management strategies, (6) adopt lean construction (LC) practices, (7) develop training and knowledge management strategies and (8) integrate logistics and supply chain management with AEC (architecture, engineering and construction) processes.

The implementation of the principles and strategic changes identified in this study aims to prepare design and construction companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to embrace the increasing use of OSC in multifamily projects in the USA, which will make them more efficient and resilient and, ultimately, will contribute to the construction of more affordable and sustainable multifamily housing projects in the USA.

This is the first research to address holistic strategies to support design and construction companies in adopting OSC.

]]>
Principles for adopting offsite construction in design and construction companies focused on multifamily projects in the USA10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0262Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSara Gusmao BrissiLuciana DebsEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1110.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0262https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0262/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influencing sub-contracted operatives' attitudes and behaviours towards improved health and safety culture in constructionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0265/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestHealth and safety is an important issue in workplaces, and despite safety procedures becoming more strict, serious accidents are still happening within the UK construction sector. This demonstrates poor performance in the implementation of safety procedures on construction sites. One of the key challenges is the unwillingness of the site workforce, especially the subcontracted operatives, to adhere to safety provisions on construction sites. As such, this study investigates the strategies for enhancing safe behaviour amongst subcontracted operatives in the UK construction industry. The study used exploratory sequential mixed method research, involving interviews and questionnaires as means of data collection, and thematic analysis, reliability analysis and exploratory factor analysis as methods of data analysis. The study suggests that various carrot and stick measures are expected to be put in place as part of the strategies for enhancing safe behaviour amongst subcontracted operatives. These include adequate enforcement of safety practices by the management, operative engagement and motivation, commendation and rewards, site safety targets, leadership style and motivation. Application of the suggested measures could enhance safety on construction sites, as it provides practical measures and solutions for inculcating safety behaviours amongst the site operatives who are most likely to be the victims of site accidents.Influencing sub-contracted operatives' attitudes and behaviours towards improved health and safety culture in construction
Saheed O. Ajayi, Natasha Lister, Jamiu Adetayo Dauda, Adekunle Oyegoke, Hafiz Alaka
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Health and safety is an important issue in workplaces, and despite safety procedures becoming more strict, serious accidents are still happening within the UK construction sector. This demonstrates poor performance in the implementation of safety procedures on construction sites. One of the key challenges is the unwillingness of the site workforce, especially the subcontracted operatives, to adhere to safety provisions on construction sites. As such, this study investigates the strategies for enhancing safe behaviour amongst subcontracted operatives in the UK construction industry.

The study used exploratory sequential mixed method research, involving interviews and questionnaires as means of data collection, and thematic analysis, reliability analysis and exploratory factor analysis as methods of data analysis.

The study suggests that various carrot and stick measures are expected to be put in place as part of the strategies for enhancing safe behaviour amongst subcontracted operatives. These include adequate enforcement of safety practices by the management, operative engagement and motivation, commendation and rewards, site safety targets, leadership style and motivation.

Application of the suggested measures could enhance safety on construction sites, as it provides practical measures and solutions for inculcating safety behaviours amongst the site operatives who are most likely to be the victims of site accidents.

]]>
Influencing sub-contracted operatives' attitudes and behaviours towards improved health and safety culture in construction10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0265Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-22© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedSaheed O. AjayiNatasha ListerJamiu Adetayo DaudaAdekunle OyegokeHafiz AlakaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2210.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0265https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0265/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Stakeholder views of prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to investigate stakeholders' perception of the most prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry. Data used for this study came from a cross-sectional survey (questionnaire), which was administered to 273 stakeholders in the construction industry using convenience sampling technique. The data were analyzed using statistical software package SPSSv17 to determine the most prevalent unethical practices. The ranking factor was calculated based on relative importance index (RII) value. The results of this study reveal that corruption was perceived by major stakeholders as the most prevalent unethical behavior (RII = 0.82) followed by bribery (RII = 0.79). Political interference and kickback came third (RII = 0.77) and fourth (RII = 0.74), respectively. However, the least prevalent unethical behaviors were extortion (RII = 0.56), workplace violence (RII = 0.57), alcohol abuse (RII = 0.59) and harassment (RII = 0.59). The findings suggest that when the various groupings were taken into consideration separately, the differences in their perceptions were obvious. Data for this study were collected from construction stakeholders in Ghana who were conveniently sampled. As a result, in reference to the sampling framework which focused on major stakeholders in only two regions of Ghana does not sufficiently ensure full generalization of the results. The findings of the study provide significant information for construction organizations and practitioners regarding unethical practices, which are most prevalent in the Ghanaian construction industry. Construction organizations and practitioners seeking to mitigate the negative effect of unethical practices on their performance should focus on educating construction workers on how to avoid corrupt practices and report same to the authorities. Also, ethics training programs must be instituted for staff coupled with constant and random inspection and checking of ethical compliance, verbal promotion and praise for ethical conduct and in some cases increase in employees pay. This paper is one of the first to have accessed the views of broader stakeholders, i.e. consultants, contractors, professionals, suppliers, regulators, clients and construction workers in the construction industry regarding the most prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry in one study. This study, therefore, enriches the current literature by providing additional dimension to the understanding of unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry.Stakeholder views of prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry
George Harrison Coffie, Divine Tuinese Novieto, Jonas Ekow Yankah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to investigate stakeholders' perception of the most prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry.

Data used for this study came from a cross-sectional survey (questionnaire), which was administered to 273 stakeholders in the construction industry using convenience sampling technique. The data were analyzed using statistical software package SPSSv17 to determine the most prevalent unethical practices. The ranking factor was calculated based on relative importance index (RII) value.

The results of this study reveal that corruption was perceived by major stakeholders as the most prevalent unethical behavior (RII = 0.82) followed by bribery (RII = 0.79). Political interference and kickback came third (RII = 0.77) and fourth (RII = 0.74), respectively. However, the least prevalent unethical behaviors were extortion (RII = 0.56), workplace violence (RII = 0.57), alcohol abuse (RII = 0.59) and harassment (RII = 0.59). The findings suggest that when the various groupings were taken into consideration separately, the differences in their perceptions were obvious.

Data for this study were collected from construction stakeholders in Ghana who were conveniently sampled. As a result, in reference to the sampling framework which focused on major stakeholders in only two regions of Ghana does not sufficiently ensure full generalization of the results.

The findings of the study provide significant information for construction organizations and practitioners regarding unethical practices, which are most prevalent in the Ghanaian construction industry. Construction organizations and practitioners seeking to mitigate the negative effect of unethical practices on their performance should focus on educating construction workers on how to avoid corrupt practices and report same to the authorities. Also, ethics training programs must be instituted for staff coupled with constant and random inspection and checking of ethical compliance, verbal promotion and praise for ethical conduct and in some cases increase in employees pay.

This paper is one of the first to have accessed the views of broader stakeholders, i.e. consultants, contractors, professionals, suppliers, regulators, clients and construction workers in the construction industry regarding the most prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry in one study. This study, therefore, enriches the current literature by providing additional dimension to the understanding of unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry.

]]>
Stakeholder views of prevalent unethical practices in the Ghanaian construction industry10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0272Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedGeorge Harrison CoffieDivine Tuinese NovietoJonas Ekow YankahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1510.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0272https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining the nonlinear relationships of corporate social responsibility, innovation and construction firm performance: the moderating role of construction firms' competitive positionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0286/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCorporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovation are the two main approaches firms utilize to promote sustainable development. However, as yet, scholars have reached no consensus regarding their precise impact on construction firm performance (CFP), hindering efforts to implement effective sustainable development strategies that improve CFP. In view that a simple linear relationship may not be sufficient to capture their precise pattern, this study aims to unveil the nonlinear impact of CSR and innovation on CFP, especially when construction firms take up a distinct competitive position. This study first proposed four hypotheses to establish a new theoretical model by incorporating CSR, innovation, CFP and construction firms' competitive position (CFCP). Then the model was tested by using 292 annual observations collected from 75 construction firms in China. A multiple regression model analysis was carried out to analyze the survey data and validate the hypotheses. The results reveal that both CSR and innovation have a U-shaped impact on the price-to-book ratio of a construction firm, a specific CFP measure. CFCP negatively moderates the U-shaped relationship between CSR and CFP, but positively moderates the U-shaped relationship between innovation and CFP. This study goes beyond a simple linear view, instead of unveiling the nonlinear U-shaped effects of CSR and innovation on CFP that deepen the understanding of their complex relationships in the construction industry and makes construction firms aware that CSR and innovation can only improve performance if they reach a certain level. The moderating role of CFCP provides important implications for construction firms seeking to adopt appropriate competitive strategies related to social responsibility and innovation that both promote CFP and achieve sustainable development.Examining the nonlinear relationships of corporate social responsibility, innovation and construction firm performance: the moderating role of construction firms' competitive position
Xian Zheng, Jiawei Deng, Xiangnan Song, Meng Ye, Lan Luo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovation are the two main approaches firms utilize to promote sustainable development. However, as yet, scholars have reached no consensus regarding their precise impact on construction firm performance (CFP), hindering efforts to implement effective sustainable development strategies that improve CFP. In view that a simple linear relationship may not be sufficient to capture their precise pattern, this study aims to unveil the nonlinear impact of CSR and innovation on CFP, especially when construction firms take up a distinct competitive position.

This study first proposed four hypotheses to establish a new theoretical model by incorporating CSR, innovation, CFP and construction firms' competitive position (CFCP). Then the model was tested by using 292 annual observations collected from 75 construction firms in China. A multiple regression model analysis was carried out to analyze the survey data and validate the hypotheses.

The results reveal that both CSR and innovation have a U-shaped impact on the price-to-book ratio of a construction firm, a specific CFP measure. CFCP negatively moderates the U-shaped relationship between CSR and CFP, but positively moderates the U-shaped relationship between innovation and CFP.

This study goes beyond a simple linear view, instead of unveiling the nonlinear U-shaped effects of CSR and innovation on CFP that deepen the understanding of their complex relationships in the construction industry and makes construction firms aware that CSR and innovation can only improve performance if they reach a certain level. The moderating role of CFCP provides important implications for construction firms seeking to adopt appropriate competitive strategies related to social responsibility and innovation that both promote CFP and achieve sustainable development.

]]>
Examining the nonlinear relationships of corporate social responsibility, innovation and construction firm performance: the moderating role of construction firms' competitive position10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0286Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-01© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedXian ZhengJiawei DengXiangnan SongMeng YeLan LuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-0110.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0286https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2022-0286/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Resolving power imbalances in construction payment using blockchain smart contractshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0194/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to develop a blockchain smart contract–enabled framework to resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment. This research adopts a design science research method to develop the blockchain smart contract–enabled framework. The authors then develop a prototype system. Finally, the authors evaluate its performance in solving power imbalance-induced payment problems. The results show that the prototype system can resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment by allowing project participants to make transparent and decentralized decisions that are self-enforceable by blockchain smart contracts. This study provides theoretical explanations for how blockchain smart contracts can resolve power imbalances in construction payment; based on that, it proposes a novel blockchain smart contract–enabled method to rebalance the power of stakeholders in construction payment. Thus, it contributes to the body of knowledge on blockchain technology and construction payment. This study moves beyond a conceptual framework and develops a practical blockchain smart contract system for resolving power imbalances in construction payment, strengthening construction project members' confidence in using blockchain technology. The proposed blockchain smart contract–enabled solution helps mitigate negative social impacts associated with late payment and non-payment. Furthermore, the research maximizes trust among participants in payment processes to inspire collaborative culture in the construction industry. This paper introduces a novel blockchain smart contract integrated method, allowing project stakeholders to resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment through decentralized decision-making.Resolving power imbalances in construction payment using blockchain smart contracts
Liupengfei Wu, Weisheng Lu, Chen Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to develop a blockchain smart contract–enabled framework to resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment.

This research adopts a design science research method to develop the blockchain smart contract–enabled framework. The authors then develop a prototype system. Finally, the authors evaluate its performance in solving power imbalance-induced payment problems.

The results show that the prototype system can resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment by allowing project participants to make transparent and decentralized decisions that are self-enforceable by blockchain smart contracts.

This study provides theoretical explanations for how blockchain smart contracts can resolve power imbalances in construction payment; based on that, it proposes a novel blockchain smart contract–enabled method to rebalance the power of stakeholders in construction payment. Thus, it contributes to the body of knowledge on blockchain technology and construction payment.

This study moves beyond a conceptual framework and develops a practical blockchain smart contract system for resolving power imbalances in construction payment, strengthening construction project members' confidence in using blockchain technology.

The proposed blockchain smart contract–enabled solution helps mitigate negative social impacts associated with late payment and non-payment. Furthermore, the research maximizes trust among participants in payment processes to inspire collaborative culture in the construction industry.

This paper introduces a novel blockchain smart contract integrated method, allowing project stakeholders to resolve power imbalance problems in construction payment through decentralized decision-making.

]]>
Resolving power imbalances in construction payment using blockchain smart contracts10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0194Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLiupengfei WuWeisheng LuChen ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-1410.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0194https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0194/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barriers to the growth of indigenous construction firms in Nigeriahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0211/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestStudies focusing on the growth of indigenous construction firms (ICFs) are getting dated, and unreflective of recent policy changes in developing countries. This study sought to analyze critical barriers to the growth of ICFs and obtain an unsupervised parsimonious grouping of the barriers for policy improvements. A mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods was adopted for the study. ICFs in Nigeria were cross-sectionally surveyed based on a set of firm growth barriers obtained from literature and refined by focus group discussion. Descriptive (means, standard deviations, percentages) and inferential (Kruskal-Wallice and Mann-Whitney U test) statistics were used in the analyses of the data. Factor analysis was used to group the variables. Results showed that “declining” ICFs are more negatively impacted by low construction mechanization/use of labor intensive methods, inadequate geographical reach of operations, and inadequate flow of jobs/low demand than “stunted” and “growing” ICFs. The three main domains of critical barriers to the growth of ICFs were identified in descending order of importance as low patronage, difficulty accessing funds, and business management incapacity. The study recommends improvements in access to funds for ICFs by increasing the percentage of advance payments, and creating a pool of equipment for easy hire by ICFs. ICFs are advised to seek information on tendering opportunities outside their regions of domicile in order to increase their patronage. This study reveals differences in the impacts of growth barriers on ICFs at different growth levels. This study also clarifies persisting barriers to the growth of ICFs [primarily construction micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)] from a developing country perspective using a longer list of variables.Barriers to the growth of indigenous construction firms in Nigeria
Chukwuemeka Patrick Ogbu, Edosa Mark Osazuwa
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Studies focusing on the growth of indigenous construction firms (ICFs) are getting dated, and unreflective of recent policy changes in developing countries. This study sought to analyze critical barriers to the growth of ICFs and obtain an unsupervised parsimonious grouping of the barriers for policy improvements.

A mix of quantitative and qualitative research methods was adopted for the study. ICFs in Nigeria were cross-sectionally surveyed based on a set of firm growth barriers obtained from literature and refined by focus group discussion. Descriptive (means, standard deviations, percentages) and inferential (Kruskal-Wallice and Mann-Whitney U test) statistics were used in the analyses of the data. Factor analysis was used to group the variables.

Results showed that “declining” ICFs are more negatively impacted by low construction mechanization/use of labor intensive methods, inadequate geographical reach of operations, and inadequate flow of jobs/low demand than “stunted” and “growing” ICFs. The three main domains of critical barriers to the growth of ICFs were identified in descending order of importance as low patronage, difficulty accessing funds, and business management incapacity.

The study recommends improvements in access to funds for ICFs by increasing the percentage of advance payments, and creating a pool of equipment for easy hire by ICFs. ICFs are advised to seek information on tendering opportunities outside their regions of domicile in order to increase their patronage.

This study reveals differences in the impacts of growth barriers on ICFs at different growth levels. This study also clarifies persisting barriers to the growth of ICFs [primarily construction micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)] from a developing country perspective using a longer list of variables.

]]>
Barriers to the growth of indigenous construction firms in Nigeria10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0211Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedChukwuemeka Patrick OgbuEdosa Mark OsazuwaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0310.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0211https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0211/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Can reputation system complement limited inspection accuracy in deterring opportunistic claims?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0214/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn construction projects, engineering variations are very common and create breeding grounds for opportunistic claims. This study investigates the complementary effect between an inspection mechanism and a reputation system in deterring opportunistic claims, considering an employer with limited inspection accuracy and a contractor, which can be either reputation-concerned or opportunistic. This paper applies a signaling game to investigate the complementary effect between the employer's inspection and a reputation system in deterring the contractor's possible opportunistic claim, considering the information-flow influence of claiming prices. This study finds that in the exogenous-inspection-accuracy case, the employer does not always inspect the claim. A more stringent reputation system complements a less accurate inspection only when the inspection cost is lower than a threshold, but may decline the employer's surplus or social welfare. In the optimal-inspection-accuracy case, the employer always inspects the claim. However, only a sufficiently stringent reputation system can guarantee the effectiveness of an optimal inspection in curbing opportunistic claims. A more stringent reputation system has a value-stepping effect on the employer's surplus but may unexpectedly impair social welfare, whereas a higher inspection cost efficiency always reduces social welfare. This article contributes to the project management literature by combing the signaling game theory with the reputation theory and thus embeds the problem of inspection mechanism design into a broader socio-economic framework.Can reputation system complement limited inspection accuracy in deterring opportunistic claims?
Dan-Yi Wang, Xueqing Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In construction projects, engineering variations are very common and create breeding grounds for opportunistic claims. This study investigates the complementary effect between an inspection mechanism and a reputation system in deterring opportunistic claims, considering an employer with limited inspection accuracy and a contractor, which can be either reputation-concerned or opportunistic.

This paper applies a signaling game to investigate the complementary effect between the employer's inspection and a reputation system in deterring the contractor's possible opportunistic claim, considering the information-flow influence of claiming prices.

This study finds that in the exogenous-inspection-accuracy case, the employer does not always inspect the claim. A more stringent reputation system complements a less accurate inspection only when the inspection cost is lower than a threshold, but may decline the employer's surplus or social welfare. In the optimal-inspection-accuracy case, the employer always inspects the claim. However, only a sufficiently stringent reputation system can guarantee the effectiveness of an optimal inspection in curbing opportunistic claims. A more stringent reputation system has a value-stepping effect on the employer's surplus but may unexpectedly impair social welfare, whereas a higher inspection cost efficiency always reduces social welfare.

This article contributes to the project management literature by combing the signaling game theory with the reputation theory and thus embeds the problem of inspection mechanism design into a broader socio-economic framework.

]]>
Can reputation system complement limited inspection accuracy in deterring opportunistic claims?10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0214Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDan-Yi WangXueqing WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-2010.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0214https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0214/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Regulatory strategies of water environment treatment PPP projects operationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0225/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe operation of water environment treatment Public-Private Partnership projects (WETP-PPP) is crucial to the project effectiveness. However, there are often problems in projects that attach importance to construction and neglect operation management, which seriously affect the project operation effect. To ensure the good operation effect of the WETP-PPP, an evolutionary game model of the regulation strategy during the operation period of WETP-PPP is constructed. An evolutionary game model of regulation is established which considers the government, the project company and the public in water environment treatment Public-Private Partnership projects (WETP-PPP). Five scenarios of equilibriums and the game's evolutionary stable strategies are analyzed, and the corresponding stability conditions are then obtained. Finally, through the simulation, the influence of different factors on the choice of the three-party strategy is analyzed. First, the key factors that affect the evolution game are the regulation costs and performance rewards of the government, the project company's operation costs and penalties for opportunism and the public supervision costs and rewards. Second, in order to ensure the operation effect, the government needs the performance incentive from the superior government. Third, the public's supervision enthusiasm needs to be mobilized by the government. Last, the penalty strength of speculative operation should be strong enough to play a deterrent role. The theoretical research in this paper has some limitations. Initially, due to the large number of participants in WETP-PPP, in addition to the government department, the project company and the public studied in this paper, it also involves the consulting industry and financial institutions. In the future, more participants can be added to form four-party interest relationships and conduct four-party evolutionary game research. Second, the operation environment of WETP-PPP is complex and changeable, and various influencing factors are intertwined, the number of parameters involved in this paper is limited, and further detailed research is needed in the future. Based on the evolutionary game theory, this article discusses the evolution law of the tripartite game behavior of the government department, the project company and the public, which is helpful to clarify the strategy evolution path of the tripartite in the WETP-PPP, and the generation condition and evolution mechanism of the equilibrium strategy of the tripartite game. The key parameters affecting the tripartite strategy selection are analyzed through simulation, which can provide reference for the government department to formulate relevant measures. At the same time, it broadens the application field of evolutionary games and supplements the research on the management mechanism of WETP-PPP during the operation period. Based on the evolutionary game theory, this paper introduces the supervision behavior of the public, which can provide a new perspective for researchers to conduct relevant research. Secondly, for the regulation during the operation of WETP-PPP, this paper can provide reference for the government department to establish a scientific public supervision system, improve the government supervision mechanism and other relevant measures, which can help promote the public supervision willingness, improve the regulation efficiency of the government and guide the project company to reduce speculation, so as to ensure the effect of water environment management. This paper focuses on the regulation of WETP-PPP during the operation period to research interactions among the government, the project company and the public. Based on the analysis of the evolutionary game, some suggestions are put forward, such as perfecting the government regulation mechanism, optimizing the reward and punishment system for the project company and broadening the channels of public supervision. The research results of this paper can provide support for the government's regulation of WETP-PPP and ensure the project operation effect.Regulatory strategies of water environment treatment PPP projects operation
Lunyan Wang, Mengyu Tao, Xiaowei An, Guanghua Dong, Yehui Huang, Haoyu Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The operation of water environment treatment Public-Private Partnership projects (WETP-PPP) is crucial to the project effectiveness. However, there are often problems in projects that attach importance to construction and neglect operation management, which seriously affect the project operation effect. To ensure the good operation effect of the WETP-PPP, an evolutionary game model of the regulation strategy during the operation period of WETP-PPP is constructed.

An evolutionary game model of regulation is established which considers the government, the project company and the public in water environment treatment Public-Private Partnership projects (WETP-PPP). Five scenarios of equilibriums and the game's evolutionary stable strategies are analyzed, and the corresponding stability conditions are then obtained. Finally, through the simulation, the influence of different factors on the choice of the three-party strategy is analyzed.

First, the key factors that affect the evolution game are the regulation costs and performance rewards of the government, the project company's operation costs and penalties for opportunism and the public supervision costs and rewards. Second, in order to ensure the operation effect, the government needs the performance incentive from the superior government. Third, the public's supervision enthusiasm needs to be mobilized by the government. Last, the penalty strength of speculative operation should be strong enough to play a deterrent role.

The theoretical research in this paper has some limitations. Initially, due to the large number of participants in WETP-PPP, in addition to the government department, the project company and the public studied in this paper, it also involves the consulting industry and financial institutions. In the future, more participants can be added to form four-party interest relationships and conduct four-party evolutionary game research. Second, the operation environment of WETP-PPP is complex and changeable, and various influencing factors are intertwined, the number of parameters involved in this paper is limited, and further detailed research is needed in the future.

Based on the evolutionary game theory, this article discusses the evolution law of the tripartite game behavior of the government department, the project company and the public, which is helpful to clarify the strategy evolution path of the tripartite in the WETP-PPP, and the generation condition and evolution mechanism of the equilibrium strategy of the tripartite game. The key parameters affecting the tripartite strategy selection are analyzed through simulation, which can provide reference for the government department to formulate relevant measures. At the same time, it broadens the application field of evolutionary games and supplements the research on the management mechanism of WETP-PPP during the operation period.

Based on the evolutionary game theory, this paper introduces the supervision behavior of the public, which can provide a new perspective for researchers to conduct relevant research. Secondly, for the regulation during the operation of WETP-PPP, this paper can provide reference for the government department to establish a scientific public supervision system, improve the government supervision mechanism and other relevant measures, which can help promote the public supervision willingness, improve the regulation efficiency of the government and guide the project company to reduce speculation, so as to ensure the effect of water environment management.

This paper focuses on the regulation of WETP-PPP during the operation period to research interactions among the government, the project company and the public. Based on the analysis of the evolutionary game, some suggestions are put forward, such as perfecting the government regulation mechanism, optimizing the reward and punishment system for the project company and broadening the channels of public supervision. The research results of this paper can provide support for the government's regulation of WETP-PPP and ensure the project operation effect.

]]>
Regulatory strategies of water environment treatment PPP projects operation10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0225Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLunyan WangMengyu TaoXiaowei AnGuanghua DongYehui HuangHaoyu WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2610.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0225https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0225/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects as construction contract administrators (CCA)https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0234/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestVarious studies have been conducted to explore the factors that are important to be considered for the effectiveness of construction contract administration (CCA) but lack in the context of graduate architects. The purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects in CCA and possible methods to enhance their work efficiency through developing the relevant skills in a changing construction environment. This paper identified the factors that influence the effectiveness of graduate architects in CCA through the quantitative methods. General skill elements that are perceived as essential for the effectiveness of CCA had been investigated through a survey of graduate architects in the construction industry. One hundred and twenty-seven completed questionnaires returned were analyzed and tested using descriptive analysis and relative important index (RII). The result from the study showed that the factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects as CCA are building construction skills, design management skills, project management skills, soft skills and dispute resolution skills. The contribution of this study can be utilized for developing models/tools in the future that would improve the work performance of graduate architects in CCA. Educators may utilize this study to improve their syllabus to cater to the market's demand and facilitate students' entry into the labor market.Factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects as construction contract administrators (CCA)
Si Yee Tiew, Helena Aman Hashim, Umi Kalsum Zolkafli @ Zulkifly
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Various studies have been conducted to explore the factors that are important to be considered for the effectiveness of construction contract administration (CCA) but lack in the context of graduate architects. The purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects in CCA and possible methods to enhance their work efficiency through developing the relevant skills in a changing construction environment.

This paper identified the factors that influence the effectiveness of graduate architects in CCA through the quantitative methods. General skill elements that are perceived as essential for the effectiveness of CCA had been investigated through a survey of graduate architects in the construction industry. One hundred and twenty-seven completed questionnaires returned were analyzed and tested using descriptive analysis and relative important index (RII).

The result from the study showed that the factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects as CCA are building construction skills, design management skills, project management skills, soft skills and dispute resolution skills.

The contribution of this study can be utilized for developing models/tools in the future that would improve the work performance of graduate architects in CCA. Educators may utilize this study to improve their syllabus to cater to the market's demand and facilitate students' entry into the labor market.

]]>
Factors influencing the effectiveness of graduate architects as construction contract administrators (CCA)10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0234Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSi Yee TiewHelena Aman HashimUmi Kalsum Zolkafli @ ZulkiflyEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2010.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0234https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0234/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Stressors and job burnout of Chinese expatriate construction professionalshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0237/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBesides ensuring traditional project objectives, expatriate construction professionals (EXCPs) working on international projects face challenges adapting to unfamiliar environments with varying construction standards, work practices and cultural values. This puts them at a high risk of job burnout. Thus, this study aims to investigate the antecedents and outcomes of EXCPs' job burnout in the international construction industry. Based on the Job demands-resource model (JD-R), a theoretical framework was developed. Industry-specific stressors and expatriate management practices were identified using a literature review and interviews. The authors then used a questionnaire survey to collect data from Chinese EXCPs. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were then utilized to test hypotheses. The findings indicate that early-career EXCPs experience the most severe levels of job burnout. The paths analysis proved the direct and indirect mitigating effects of expatriate management practices on job burnout, and EXCP's job burnout was associated with poor job performance and decreased intention to stay in the international assignment. While prior research has explored job burnout among construction professionals working on domestic projects, little attention has been given to EXCPs and their unique challenges. This study aims to fill this critical gap in the literature by offering a unique perspective on the antecedents and outcomes of job burnout among EXCPs in international contexts and presents a significant contribution to understanding and addressing occupational health issues faced by EXCPs.Stressors and job burnout of Chinese expatriate construction professionals
Alaeldin Abdalla, Xiaodong Li, Fan Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Besides ensuring traditional project objectives, expatriate construction professionals (EXCPs) working on international projects face challenges adapting to unfamiliar environments with varying construction standards, work practices and cultural values. This puts them at a high risk of job burnout. Thus, this study aims to investigate the antecedents and outcomes of EXCPs' job burnout in the international construction industry.

Based on the Job demands-resource model (JD-R), a theoretical framework was developed. Industry-specific stressors and expatriate management practices were identified using a literature review and interviews. The authors then used a questionnaire survey to collect data from Chinese EXCPs. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were then utilized to test hypotheses.

The findings indicate that early-career EXCPs experience the most severe levels of job burnout. The paths analysis proved the direct and indirect mitigating effects of expatriate management practices on job burnout, and EXCP's job burnout was associated with poor job performance and decreased intention to stay in the international assignment.

While prior research has explored job burnout among construction professionals working on domestic projects, little attention has been given to EXCPs and their unique challenges. This study aims to fill this critical gap in the literature by offering a unique perspective on the antecedents and outcomes of job burnout among EXCPs in international contexts and presents a significant contribution to understanding and addressing occupational health issues faced by EXCPs.

]]>
Stressors and job burnout of Chinese expatriate construction professionals10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0237Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAlaeldin AbdallaXiaodong LiFan YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2110.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0237https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0237/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Construction and application of knowledge graph for construction accidents based on deep learninghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0255/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestLearning from safety accidents and sharing safety knowledge has become an important part of accident prevention and improving construction safety management. Considering the difficulty of reusing unstructured data in the construction industry, the knowledge in it is difficult to be used directly for safety analysis. The purpose of this paper is to explore the construction of construction safety knowledge representation model and safety accident graph through deep learning methods, extract construction safety knowledge entities through BERT-BiLSTM-CRF model and propose a data management model of data–knowledge–services. The ontology model of knowledge representation of construction safety accidents is constructed by integrating entity relation and logic evolution. Then, the database of safety incidents in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is established based on the collected construction safety incident reports and related dispute cases. The construction method of construction safety accident knowledge graph is studied, and the precision of BERT-BiLSTM-CRF algorithm in information extraction is verified through comparative experiments. Finally, a safety accident report is used as an example to construct the AEC domain construction safety accident knowledge graph (AEC-KG), which provides visual query knowledge service and verifies the operability of knowledge management. The experimental results show that the combined BERT-BiLSTM-CRF algorithm has a precision of 84.52%, a recall of 92.35%, and an F1 value of 88.26% in named entity recognition from the AEC domain database. The construction safety knowledge representation model and safety incident knowledge graph realize knowledge visualization. The proposed framework provides a new knowledge management approach to improve the safety management of practitioners and also enriches the application scenarios of knowledge graph. On the one hand, it innovatively proposes a data application method and knowledge management method of safety accident report that integrates entity relationship and matter evolution logic. On the other hand, the legal adjudication dimension is innovatively added to the knowledge graph in the construction safety field as the basis for the postincident disposal measures of safety accidents, which provides reference for safety managers' decision-making in all aspects.Construction and application of knowledge graph for construction accidents based on deep learning
Wenjing Wu, Caifeng Wen, Qi Yuan, Qiulan Chen, Yunzhong Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Learning from safety accidents and sharing safety knowledge has become an important part of accident prevention and improving construction safety management. Considering the difficulty of reusing unstructured data in the construction industry, the knowledge in it is difficult to be used directly for safety analysis. The purpose of this paper is to explore the construction of construction safety knowledge representation model and safety accident graph through deep learning methods, extract construction safety knowledge entities through BERT-BiLSTM-CRF model and propose a data management model of data–knowledge–services.

The ontology model of knowledge representation of construction safety accidents is constructed by integrating entity relation and logic evolution. Then, the database of safety incidents in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry is established based on the collected construction safety incident reports and related dispute cases. The construction method of construction safety accident knowledge graph is studied, and the precision of BERT-BiLSTM-CRF algorithm in information extraction is verified through comparative experiments. Finally, a safety accident report is used as an example to construct the AEC domain construction safety accident knowledge graph (AEC-KG), which provides visual query knowledge service and verifies the operability of knowledge management.

The experimental results show that the combined BERT-BiLSTM-CRF algorithm has a precision of 84.52%, a recall of 92.35%, and an F1 value of 88.26% in named entity recognition from the AEC domain database. The construction safety knowledge representation model and safety incident knowledge graph realize knowledge visualization.

The proposed framework provides a new knowledge management approach to improve the safety management of practitioners and also enriches the application scenarios of knowledge graph. On the one hand, it innovatively proposes a data application method and knowledge management method of safety accident report that integrates entity relationship and matter evolution logic. On the other hand, the legal adjudication dimension is innovatively added to the knowledge graph in the construction safety field as the basis for the postincident disposal measures of safety accidents, which provides reference for safety managers' decision-making in all aspects.

]]>
Construction and application of knowledge graph for construction accidents based on deep learning10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0255Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWenjing WuCaifeng WenQi YuanQiulan ChenYunzhong CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1210.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0255https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0255/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of emotions on the behavioral strategies of PPP project stakeholders: an RDEU evolutionary game analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0262/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestEmotions, understood as evolving mental states, are pivotal in shaping individuals“' decision-making, especially in ambiguous information evaluation, probability estimation of events, and causality analysis. Public–private partnership (PPP) projects represent a confluence of “economic–environmental–social” dimensions, wherein stakeholder behavior follows the sequential progression of “cognition–emotion–action.” Consequently, comprehending the effects of emotional shifts on stakeholder's decision-making processes is vital to fostering the sustainability of PPP projects. The paper utilizes rank-dependent expected utility and evolutionary game theory to systematically examine the influence of emotional factors on stakeholders' behavior and decision-making processes within PPP projects. The paper integrates three emotional state functions—optimism, pessimism and rationality—into the PPP framework, highlighting the intricate interactions among the government, private sector, surrounding public and the media. Furthermore, the paper amalgamates the evolutionary pathways of environmental rights incidents with the media's role. Through equilibrium analysis and numerical simulation, the paper delves into the diverse interplay of emotions across different phases of the environmental rights incident, assessing the impact of these emotions on the evolutionary game's equilibrium results. Emotions significantly influence the microlevel decisions of PPP stakeholders, adapting continually based on event dynamics and media influences. When the private sector demonstrates optimism and the surrounding public leans toward rationality or pessimism, the likelihood of the private sector engaging in speculative behavior escalates, while the surrounding public refrains from adopting a supervisory strategy. Conversely, when the private sector is pessimistic and the public is optimistic, the system fails to evolve a stable strategy. However, when government regulation intensifies, the private sector opts for a nonspeculative strategy, and the surrounding public adopts a supervisory strategy. Under these conditions, the system attains a relatively optimal state of equilibrium. The paper develops a game model to examine the evolutionary dynamics between the surrounding public and private sectors concerning environmental rights protection in waste incineration PPP projects. It illuminates the nature of the conflicting interests among project participants, delves into the impact of emotional factors on their decision-making processes and offers crucial perspectives for the governance of such partnerships. Furthermore, this paper provides substantive recommendations for emotional oversight to enhance governance efficacy.Impact of emotions on the behavioral strategies of PPP project stakeholders: an RDEU evolutionary game analysis
Zehui Bu, Jicai Liu, Jiaqi Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Emotions, understood as evolving mental states, are pivotal in shaping individuals“' decision-making, especially in ambiguous information evaluation, probability estimation of events, and causality analysis. Public–private partnership (PPP) projects represent a confluence of “economic–environmental–social” dimensions, wherein stakeholder behavior follows the sequential progression of “cognition–emotion–action.” Consequently, comprehending the effects of emotional shifts on stakeholder's decision-making processes is vital to fostering the sustainability of PPP projects.

The paper utilizes rank-dependent expected utility and evolutionary game theory to systematically examine the influence of emotional factors on stakeholders' behavior and decision-making processes within PPP projects. The paper integrates three emotional state functions—optimism, pessimism and rationality—into the PPP framework, highlighting the intricate interactions among the government, private sector, surrounding public and the media. Furthermore, the paper amalgamates the evolutionary pathways of environmental rights incidents with the media's role. Through equilibrium analysis and numerical simulation, the paper delves into the diverse interplay of emotions across different phases of the environmental rights incident, assessing the impact of these emotions on the evolutionary game's equilibrium results.

Emotions significantly influence the microlevel decisions of PPP stakeholders, adapting continually based on event dynamics and media influences. When the private sector demonstrates optimism and the surrounding public leans toward rationality or pessimism, the likelihood of the private sector engaging in speculative behavior escalates, while the surrounding public refrains from adopting a supervisory strategy. Conversely, when the private sector is pessimistic and the public is optimistic, the system fails to evolve a stable strategy. However, when government regulation intensifies, the private sector opts for a nonspeculative strategy, and the surrounding public adopts a supervisory strategy. Under these conditions, the system attains a relatively optimal state of equilibrium.

The paper develops a game model to examine the evolutionary dynamics between the surrounding public and private sectors concerning environmental rights protection in waste incineration PPP projects. It illuminates the nature of the conflicting interests among project participants, delves into the impact of emotional factors on their decision-making processes and offers crucial perspectives for the governance of such partnerships. Furthermore, this paper provides substantive recommendations for emotional oversight to enhance governance efficacy.

]]>
Impact of emotions on the behavioral strategies of PPP project stakeholders: an RDEU evolutionary game analysis10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0262Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedZehui BuJicai LiuJiaqi LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1510.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0262https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0262/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Trade-offs between accuracy and efficiency in BIM-LCA integrationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0270/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn the last decades, various building information modeling–life cycle assessment (BIM-LCA) integration approaches have been developed to assess the environmental impact of the built asset. However, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal BIM-LCA integration approach that provides the most accurate and efficient assessment outcomes. To compare and determine their accuracy and efficiency, this study aimed to investigate four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions, namely, conventional, parametric modeling, plug-in and industry foundation classes (IFC)-based integration. The four integration approaches were developed and applied using the same building project. A quantitative technique for evaluating the accuracy and efficiency of BIM-LCA integration solutions was used. Four indicators for assessing the performance of BIM-LCA integration were (1) validity of LCA results, (2) accuracy of bill-of-quantity (BOQ) extraction, (3) time for developing life cycle inventories (i.e. developing time) and (4) time for calculating LCA results (i.e. calculation time). The results show that the plug-in-based approach outperforms others in developing and calculation time, while the conventional one could derive the most accuracy in BOQ extraction and result validity. The parametric modeling approach outperforms the IFC-based method regarding BOQ extraction, developing time and calculation time. Despite this, the IFC-based approach produces LCA outcomes with approximately 1% error, proving its validity. This paper forms one of the first studies that employ a quantitative and objective method to determine the performance of four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions and reveal the trade-offs between the accuracy and efficiency of the integration approaches. The findings provide practical references for LCA practitioners to select appropriate BIM-LCA integration approaches for evaluating the environmental impact of the built asset during the design phase.Trade-offs between accuracy and efficiency in BIM-LCA integration
Bowen Zheng, Mudasir Hussain, Yang Yang, Albert P.C. Chan, Hung-Lin Chi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In the last decades, various building information modeling–life cycle assessment (BIM-LCA) integration approaches have been developed to assess the environmental impact of the built asset. However, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal BIM-LCA integration approach that provides the most accurate and efficient assessment outcomes. To compare and determine their accuracy and efficiency, this study aimed to investigate four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions, namely, conventional, parametric modeling, plug-in and industry foundation classes (IFC)-based integration.

The four integration approaches were developed and applied using the same building project. A quantitative technique for evaluating the accuracy and efficiency of BIM-LCA integration solutions was used. Four indicators for assessing the performance of BIM-LCA integration were (1) validity of LCA results, (2) accuracy of bill-of-quantity (BOQ) extraction, (3) time for developing life cycle inventories (i.e. developing time) and (4) time for calculating LCA results (i.e. calculation time).

The results show that the plug-in-based approach outperforms others in developing and calculation time, while the conventional one could derive the most accuracy in BOQ extraction and result validity. The parametric modeling approach outperforms the IFC-based method regarding BOQ extraction, developing time and calculation time. Despite this, the IFC-based approach produces LCA outcomes with approximately 1% error, proving its validity.

This paper forms one of the first studies that employ a quantitative and objective method to determine the performance of four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions and reveal the trade-offs between the accuracy and efficiency of the integration approaches. The findings provide practical references for LCA practitioners to select appropriate BIM-LCA integration approaches for evaluating the environmental impact of the built asset during the design phase.

]]>
Trade-offs between accuracy and efficiency in BIM-LCA integration10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0270Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedBowen ZhengMudasir HussainYang YangAlbert P.C. ChanHung-Lin ChiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-1410.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0270https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0270/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Incentive contract design and selection for inhibiting unethical collusion in construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe construction industry has long been criticized for unethical conduct. The owner usually manages the contractor's opportunistic behaviors by employing a professional supervisor, but there is a risk of covert collusion between the supervisor and contractor. Based on the principal–agent theory and collusion theory, this paper aims to investigate optimal collusion-proof incentive contracts. This paper presents a game-theoretic framework comprising an owner, supervisor and contractor, who interact and pursue maximized self-profits. Built upon the fixed-price incentive contract, cost-reimbursement contract, and revenue-sharing contract, different collusion-proof incentive contracts are investigated. A real project case is used to validate the developed model and derived results. This paper shows that the presence of unethical collusion undermines the owner's interests. Especially, the possibility of agent collusion may induce the owner to abandon extracting quality information from the supervisor. Furthermore, information asymmetry significantly affects the construction contract selection, and the application conditions for different incentive contracts are provided. This study still has some limitations that deserve further exploration. First, this study explores contractor–supervisor collusion but ignores the possibility of the supervisor abusing authority to extort the contractor. Second, to focus on collusion, this paper ignores the supervision costs. What's the optimal supervision effort that the owner should induce the supervisor to exert? Finally, this paper assumes that the colluders involved always keep their promises. However, what if the colluders may break their promises? Several collusion-proof incentive contracts are explored in a project management setting. The proposed incentive contracts can provide the project owner with effective and practical tools to inhibit covert collusion in construction management and thus safeguard construction project quality. This study expands the organization collusion theory to the field of construction management and investigates the optimal collusion-proof incentive contracts. In addition, this study is the first to investigate the effects of information asymmetry on contract selection.Incentive contract design and selection for inhibiting unethical collusion in construction projects
Lei Cui
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The construction industry has long been criticized for unethical conduct. The owner usually manages the contractor's opportunistic behaviors by employing a professional supervisor, but there is a risk of covert collusion between the supervisor and contractor. Based on the principal–agent theory and collusion theory, this paper aims to investigate optimal collusion-proof incentive contracts.

This paper presents a game-theoretic framework comprising an owner, supervisor and contractor, who interact and pursue maximized self-profits. Built upon the fixed-price incentive contract, cost-reimbursement contract, and revenue-sharing contract, different collusion-proof incentive contracts are investigated. A real project case is used to validate the developed model and derived results.

This paper shows that the presence of unethical collusion undermines the owner's interests. Especially, the possibility of agent collusion may induce the owner to abandon extracting quality information from the supervisor. Furthermore, information asymmetry significantly affects the construction contract selection, and the application conditions for different incentive contracts are provided.

This study still has some limitations that deserve further exploration. First, this study explores contractor–supervisor collusion but ignores the possibility of the supervisor abusing authority to extort the contractor. Second, to focus on collusion, this paper ignores the supervision costs. What's the optimal supervision effort that the owner should induce the supervisor to exert? Finally, this paper assumes that the colluders involved always keep their promises. However, what if the colluders may break their promises?

Several collusion-proof incentive contracts are explored in a project management setting. The proposed incentive contracts can provide the project owner with effective and practical tools to inhibit covert collusion in construction management and thus safeguard construction project quality.

This study expands the organization collusion theory to the field of construction management and investigates the optimal collusion-proof incentive contracts. In addition, this study is the first to investigate the effects of information asymmetry on contract selection.

]]>
Incentive contract design and selection for inhibiting unethical collusion in construction projects10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0272Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-22© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLei CuiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2210.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0272https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Understanding client satisfaction of prefabricated curtain wall in Hong Kong using XGBoost and Pearson correlationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0276/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe unitized curtain wall system (UCWS), a symbol of modern architecture, is gaining popularity among prefabricated components. Previous studies have focused on both construction technology advances and material selection strategies to facilitate the UCWS. However, the topic of client satisfaction, which drives industry development by targeting clients' demands, has gone unnoticed. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate client satisfaction with UCWS products in Hong Kong by finding its influential factors. A systematic review was employed to first identify the influential factors. A semi-structured interview was employed to validate the reliability of the extracted factors. The machine learning algorithm Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and the Pearson correlation were then employed to rank the importance and correlation of factors based on the 1–5 Likert scale scores obtained through a questionnaire survey. The findings revealed that “reduction in construction time” and “reduction in construction waste” are the most important factors and have a strong positive influence on client satisfaction. Unlike previous studies, the present study focused on a novel research topic and introduces an objective analysis process using machine learning algorithms. The findings contribute to narrowing the knowledge gap regarding client preference for UCWS products from both individual and collaborative perspectives, providing decision-makers with an objective, quantitative and thorough reference before making investments in the curtain wall management development.Understanding client satisfaction of prefabricated curtain wall in Hong Kong using XGBoost and Pearson correlation
Tai Wai Kwok, SiWei Chang, Heng Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The unitized curtain wall system (UCWS), a symbol of modern architecture, is gaining popularity among prefabricated components. Previous studies have focused on both construction technology advances and material selection strategies to facilitate the UCWS. However, the topic of client satisfaction, which drives industry development by targeting clients' demands, has gone unnoticed. Therefore, the current study aims to investigate client satisfaction with UCWS products in Hong Kong by finding its influential factors.

A systematic review was employed to first identify the influential factors. A semi-structured interview was employed to validate the reliability of the extracted factors. The machine learning algorithm Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and the Pearson correlation were then employed to rank the importance and correlation of factors based on the 1–5 Likert scale scores obtained through a questionnaire survey.

The findings revealed that “reduction in construction time” and “reduction in construction waste” are the most important factors and have a strong positive influence on client satisfaction.

Unlike previous studies, the present study focused on a novel research topic and introduces an objective analysis process using machine learning algorithms. The findings contribute to narrowing the knowledge gap regarding client preference for UCWS products from both individual and collaborative perspectives, providing decision-makers with an objective, quantitative and thorough reference before making investments in the curtain wall management development.

]]>
Understanding client satisfaction of prefabricated curtain wall in Hong Kong using XGBoost and Pearson correlation10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0276Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedTai Wai KwokSiWei ChangHeng LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-0610.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0276https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0276/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Towards a complex push-to-pull dynamics in circular construction supply chains: a systematic literature reviewhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0294/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe development of circular construction supply chains (CCSCs) is impeded by various barriers, but the current literature overlooks the interrelationships among these barriers and the varying nature of associated countermeasures with the growth of circular economy (CE). This paper aims to develop new perspectives about the transition to CCSCs through the lens of supply-push (SP)/demand-pull (DP) strategies and related underpinning theories. A systematic literature review including 136 journal articles was undertaken to identify barriers to CCSCs and associated countermeasures that are analysed for their relevance to SP/DP. The interplay between SP/DP approaches was discussed using the “technology acceptance” and “innovation chain” models. (1) Thirty-five barriers were identified and organised into nine main barrier factors; (2) the predominant factors are knowledge and awareness, policy and regulations, technological capabilities, and incentives; (3) CCSCs transition is SP-configured primarily driven by actors above the project network; (4) “push” measures are devised to gradually create a “pull” environment and can be revoked when demand for circularity is created, suggesting a new “push-to-pull” perspective of CCSCs; and (5) a complex adaptative system is witnessed in relationships between barriers and countermeasures, and interactions among actors at all levels. The findings offer practitioners countermeasures to barriers encountered in CE initiatives. It also informs policymakers of adjusting policies to accommodate the SP-DP movement in steering the circular transition. This study uses theoretical models to interpret the dynamics in CCSCs transition and proposes a new definition of CCSCs highlighting their complex and dual transitional/transformational nature.Towards a complex push-to-pull dynamics in circular construction supply chains: a systematic literature review
Mohamed Abadi, Jieling Huang, Jillian Yeow, Saeed Reza Mohandes, Lihong Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The development of circular construction supply chains (CCSCs) is impeded by various barriers, but the current literature overlooks the interrelationships among these barriers and the varying nature of associated countermeasures with the growth of circular economy (CE). This paper aims to develop new perspectives about the transition to CCSCs through the lens of supply-push (SP)/demand-pull (DP) strategies and related underpinning theories.

A systematic literature review including 136 journal articles was undertaken to identify barriers to CCSCs and associated countermeasures that are analysed for their relevance to SP/DP. The interplay between SP/DP approaches was discussed using the “technology acceptance” and “innovation chain” models.

(1) Thirty-five barriers were identified and organised into nine main barrier factors; (2) the predominant factors are knowledge and awareness, policy and regulations, technological capabilities, and incentives; (3) CCSCs transition is SP-configured primarily driven by actors above the project network; (4) “push” measures are devised to gradually create a “pull” environment and can be revoked when demand for circularity is created, suggesting a new “push-to-pull” perspective of CCSCs; and (5) a complex adaptative system is witnessed in relationships between barriers and countermeasures, and interactions among actors at all levels.

The findings offer practitioners countermeasures to barriers encountered in CE initiatives. It also informs policymakers of adjusting policies to accommodate the SP-DP movement in steering the circular transition.

This study uses theoretical models to interpret the dynamics in CCSCs transition and proposes a new definition of CCSCs highlighting their complex and dual transitional/transformational nature.

]]>
Towards a complex push-to-pull dynamics in circular construction supply chains: a systematic literature review10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0294Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohamed AbadiJieling HuangJillian YeowSaeed Reza MohandesLihong ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-3110.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0294https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0294/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining the mediating roles of social malaise and religious manipulations in corruption manifestations: the case of the construction sectorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0295/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs the foundation for understanding the dynamics of the construction sector's corruption, this study examines building contractors' experiences of the stifling of moral, communal and cultural values in the name of modern social and religious principles. This study's objective was accomplished in two phases. First, a theoretical model was constructed. The theory is then tested using structural equation modeling in the second section. The theory suggests that, based on social norm and institutional theories, social disquietude and religious manipulation influence the interaction and types of corruption in the Nigerian construction sector. From this theory, it was deduced that social malaise (hypothesis 1) and religious manipulations (hypothesis 2) mediate the processes and forms of corruption in the construction sector. To validate the hypotheses, a structural equation model (SEM) was developed and tested. Native intelligence, new values, social quests and poverty are the social malaises that are profoundly responsible for corruption manifestations in the construction industry. The findings confirmed that construction stakeholders are heavily influenced financially and spiritually by religious organizations. Construction stakeholders engage in corrupt activities as a result of the ravenousness and self-interest bestowed on them by religious manipulation and the significant contribution of social malaise. The study admits that social engineering is required to integrate local wisdom and values into Nigerian society in order to mitigate the negative consequences of social unrest and religious manipulations. This study has contributed to a branch of the literature on corruption in the construction industry that aims to identify the hidden factors that drive the sector's corruption dynamics. It has shown how many different problems in society and religious beliefs can make building contractors more likely to be dishonest. In order to improve project delivery, this study emphasized the importance of investigating the relationship between religious affiliations, religious doctrines and domination and religious competition on corruption in the construction industry. Following the findings of this study, the majority of construction stakeholders place their trust in unmerited favor, “spirit money,” prosperity gospels and the payment of offerings and “seed money” to win contracts. This implies that construction stakeholders will most likely be deceptive in their dealings, increasing the quantity of certified work, increasing variation claims and engaging in collusion. This is because their faith in inconceivable favors and the exchange of offerings for blessings would lead them to perceive fraudulent practices as a favor. This study is unique in that it sought to determine whether construction stakeholders' corrupt tendencies stem from religious manipulations and complex social systems.Examining the mediating roles of social malaise and religious manipulations in corruption manifestations: the case of the construction sector
Oluseye Olugboyega, Obuks Augustine Ejohwomu, Emmanuel Dele Omopariola
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As the foundation for understanding the dynamics of the construction sector's corruption, this study examines building contractors' experiences of the stifling of moral, communal and cultural values in the name of modern social and religious principles.

This study's objective was accomplished in two phases. First, a theoretical model was constructed. The theory is then tested using structural equation modeling in the second section. The theory suggests that, based on social norm and institutional theories, social disquietude and religious manipulation influence the interaction and types of corruption in the Nigerian construction sector. From this theory, it was deduced that social malaise (hypothesis 1) and religious manipulations (hypothesis 2) mediate the processes and forms of corruption in the construction sector. To validate the hypotheses, a structural equation model (SEM) was developed and tested.

Native intelligence, new values, social quests and poverty are the social malaises that are profoundly responsible for corruption manifestations in the construction industry. The findings confirmed that construction stakeholders are heavily influenced financially and spiritually by religious organizations. Construction stakeholders engage in corrupt activities as a result of the ravenousness and self-interest bestowed on them by religious manipulation and the significant contribution of social malaise. The study admits that social engineering is required to integrate local wisdom and values into Nigerian society in order to mitigate the negative consequences of social unrest and religious manipulations.

This study has contributed to a branch of the literature on corruption in the construction industry that aims to identify the hidden factors that drive the sector's corruption dynamics. It has shown how many different problems in society and religious beliefs can make building contractors more likely to be dishonest. In order to improve project delivery, this study emphasized the importance of investigating the relationship between religious affiliations, religious doctrines and domination and religious competition on corruption in the construction industry.

Following the findings of this study, the majority of construction stakeholders place their trust in unmerited favor, “spirit money,” prosperity gospels and the payment of offerings and “seed money” to win contracts. This implies that construction stakeholders will most likely be deceptive in their dealings, increasing the quantity of certified work, increasing variation claims and engaging in collusion. This is because their faith in inconceivable favors and the exchange of offerings for blessings would lead them to perceive fraudulent practices as a favor.

This study is unique in that it sought to determine whether construction stakeholders' corrupt tendencies stem from religious manipulations and complex social systems.

]]>
Examining the mediating roles of social malaise and religious manipulations in corruption manifestations: the case of the construction sector10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0295Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedOluseye OlugboyegaObuks Augustine EjohwomuEmmanuel Dele OmopariolaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1210.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0295https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0295/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Dynamic assessment of stakeholder conflict risk for R&D project portfolioshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0301/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestResearch and development (R&D) projects are often pursued through a project portfolio (PP). R&D PPs involve many stakeholders, and without proactive management, their interactions may lead to conflict risks. These conflict risks change dynamically with different stages of the PP life cycle, increasing the challenge of PP risk management. Existing conflict risk research mainly focuses on source identification but lacks risk assessment work. To better manage the stakeholder conflict risks (SCRs) of R&D PPs, this study employs the dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) to construct its dynamic assessment model. This study constructs a DBN model to assess the SCRs in R&D PP. First, an indicator system of SCRs is constructed from the life cycle perspective. Then, the risk relationships within each R&D PPs life cycle stage are identified via interpretative structural modeling (ISM). The prior and conditional probabilities of risks are obtained by expert judgment and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). Finally, crucial SCRs at each stage are identified utilizing propagation analysis, and the corresponding risk responses are proposed. The results of the study identify the crucial risks at each stage. Also, for the crucial risks, this study suggests appropriate risk response strategies to help managers better perform risk response activities. This study dynamically assesses the stakeholder conflict risks in R&D PPs from a life-cycle perspective, extending the stakeholder risk management research. Meanwhile, the crucial risks are identified at each stage accordingly, providing managerial insights for R&D PPs.Dynamic assessment of stakeholder conflict risk for R&D project portfolios
Libiao Bai, Xuyang Zhao, ShuYun Kang, Yiming Ma, BingBing Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Research and development (R&D) projects are often pursued through a project portfolio (PP). R&D PPs involve many stakeholders, and without proactive management, their interactions may lead to conflict risks. These conflict risks change dynamically with different stages of the PP life cycle, increasing the challenge of PP risk management. Existing conflict risk research mainly focuses on source identification but lacks risk assessment work. To better manage the stakeholder conflict risks (SCRs) of R&D PPs, this study employs the dynamic Bayesian network (DBN) to construct its dynamic assessment model.

This study constructs a DBN model to assess the SCRs in R&D PP. First, an indicator system of SCRs is constructed from the life cycle perspective. Then, the risk relationships within each R&D PPs life cycle stage are identified via interpretative structural modeling (ISM). The prior and conditional probabilities of risks are obtained by expert judgment and Monte Carlo simulation (MCS). Finally, crucial SCRs at each stage are identified utilizing propagation analysis, and the corresponding risk responses are proposed.

The results of the study identify the crucial risks at each stage. Also, for the crucial risks, this study suggests appropriate risk response strategies to help managers better perform risk response activities.

This study dynamically assesses the stakeholder conflict risks in R&D PPs from a life-cycle perspective, extending the stakeholder risk management research. Meanwhile, the crucial risks are identified at each stage accordingly, providing managerial insights for R&D PPs.

]]>
Dynamic assessment of stakeholder conflict risk for R&D project portfolios10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0301Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLibiao BaiXuyang ZhaoShuYun KangYiming MaBingBing ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2110.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0301https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0301/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
S-curve adjustment approaches for a force majeure event: COVID-19 as an examplehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0303/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAn S-curve is an essential project-management tool. However, it is difficult to adjust S-curve to deal with a force majeure event. The present study develops four valuable adjustment approaches, designed to achieve a compromise between the views of the client and contractor. These can be used to control projects after a force majeure event. The present study develops four adjustment approaches, which can be used to achieve a compromise between the views of the client and those of the contractor when controlling projects after a force majeure. To determine the S-curves during a force majeure event, two approaches can be selected: BCWS (budgeted cost of scheduled work)-base approach, or BCWP (budgeted cost of work performed)-base approach. To determine the rest of S-curves after a force majeure event, two approaches can be considered: maintaining the original curve of the remaining BCWS, or allocating the original curve of the remaining BCWS. Based on the validation of three empirical cases, drawn from a professional project-management website, this study confirms the feasibility of four proposed empirical approaches and a selection procedure for S-curve adjustment. The S-curve-adjustment approaches presented here can be used to deal with cases that are ahead of, on and behind schedule. Using the proposed approaches and selection procedure, contractors can easily revise S-curves and control projects more effectively. To deal with a force majeure event, such as COVID-19, they are strongly advised to adopt the approaches labeled SA-A1 (to adjust the S-curve based on the extension ratio multiplied by the difference in progress during the force majeure) and SA-B1 (to maintain the original curve of the remaining BCWS) for the A/E and E/F curves, respectively. The proposed approaches can be used in cases of continuous construction during force majeure events. If construction work is totally suspended during such an event, it will be necessary to fine-tune the proposed approaches. Previous studies have used case-oriented or mathematical-simulation approaches to forecast S-curves. The present study proposes simple approaches that allow the client and contractor to adjust the S-curve easily after a force majeure event. These approaches can be used to adjust work and project-completion targets within an extended duration. Selecting the right S-curve adjustment approach can help to control the remainder of the project, reducing the possibility of delay claims.S-curve adjustment approaches for a force majeure event: COVID-19 as an example
Jyh-Bin Yang, Ying-Fu Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

An S-curve is an essential project-management tool. However, it is difficult to adjust S-curve to deal with a force majeure event. The present study develops four valuable adjustment approaches, designed to achieve a compromise between the views of the client and contractor. These can be used to control projects after a force majeure event.

The present study develops four adjustment approaches, which can be used to achieve a compromise between the views of the client and those of the contractor when controlling projects after a force majeure. To determine the S-curves during a force majeure event, two approaches can be selected: BCWS (budgeted cost of scheduled work)-base approach, or BCWP (budgeted cost of work performed)-base approach. To determine the rest of S-curves after a force majeure event, two approaches can be considered: maintaining the original curve of the remaining BCWS, or allocating the original curve of the remaining BCWS. Based on the validation of three empirical cases, drawn from a professional project-management website, this study confirms the feasibility of four proposed empirical approaches and a selection procedure for S-curve adjustment.

The S-curve-adjustment approaches presented here can be used to deal with cases that are ahead of, on and behind schedule. Using the proposed approaches and selection procedure, contractors can easily revise S-curves and control projects more effectively. To deal with a force majeure event, such as COVID-19, they are strongly advised to adopt the approaches labeled SA-A1 (to adjust the S-curve based on the extension ratio multiplied by the difference in progress during the force majeure) and SA-B1 (to maintain the original curve of the remaining BCWS) for the A/E and E/F curves, respectively.

The proposed approaches can be used in cases of continuous construction during force majeure events. If construction work is totally suspended during such an event, it will be necessary to fine-tune the proposed approaches.

Previous studies have used case-oriented or mathematical-simulation approaches to forecast S-curves. The present study proposes simple approaches that allow the client and contractor to adjust the S-curve easily after a force majeure event. These approaches can be used to adjust work and project-completion targets within an extended duration. Selecting the right S-curve adjustment approach can help to control the remainder of the project, reducing the possibility of delay claims.

]]>
S-curve adjustment approaches for a force majeure event: COVID-19 as an example10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0303Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJyh-Bin YangYing-Fu ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-2010.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0303https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0303/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Cost estimation model of prefabricated construction for general contractors based on system dynamicshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0304/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe poor capacity of prefabricated construction cost estimation is the essential reason for the low profitability of the general contractor. Therefore, this study aims to focus on the cost estimation of prefabricated construction as the research object. This research aims to enhance the accuracy of total project cost estimation for general contractors, ultimately leading to improved profitability. This study used Vensim PLE software to establish a system dynamics model. In the modeling process, a systematic research review was used to identify cost-influencing factors; ABC classification and the analytic hierarchy process were used to score and determine the weights of influencing factors. The total cost error obtained by the model is less than 2% compared with the actual value. It can be used to cost estimation and analysis. The analysis results indicate that there are 7 key factors, among which the prefabrication rate has the most significant impact. Furthermore, the model can provide the extreme range cost; the minimum cost can reduce by 13% from the value in the case. The factor's value can compose a cost control strategy for general contractors. The cost of prefabricated buildings can be estimated well, and deciding the prefabrication rate is crucial. The cost can be declined by correct cost control strategies when bidding and subcontracting are in process. The strategies can follow the direction of the model. A systemic, quantitative and qualitative analysis of cost estimation of prefabricated buildings for general contractors has been conducted. A mathematical model has been developed and validated to facilitate more effective cost-control measures.Cost estimation model of prefabricated construction for general contractors based on system dynamics
Mengkai Liu, Meng Luo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The poor capacity of prefabricated construction cost estimation is the essential reason for the low profitability of the general contractor. Therefore, this study aims to focus on the cost estimation of prefabricated construction as the research object. This research aims to enhance the accuracy of total project cost estimation for general contractors, ultimately leading to improved profitability.

This study used Vensim PLE software to establish a system dynamics model. In the modeling process, a systematic research review was used to identify cost-influencing factors; ABC classification and the analytic hierarchy process were used to score and determine the weights of influencing factors.

The total cost error obtained by the model is less than 2% compared with the actual value. It can be used to cost estimation and analysis. The analysis results indicate that there are 7 key factors, among which the prefabrication rate has the most significant impact. Furthermore, the model can provide the extreme range cost; the minimum cost can reduce by 13% from the value in the case. The factor's value can compose a cost control strategy for general contractors.

The cost of prefabricated buildings can be estimated well, and deciding the prefabrication rate is crucial. The cost can be declined by correct cost control strategies when bidding and subcontracting are in process. The strategies can follow the direction of the model.

A systemic, quantitative and qualitative analysis of cost estimation of prefabricated buildings for general contractors has been conducted. A mathematical model has been developed and validated to facilitate more effective cost-control measures.

]]>
Cost estimation model of prefabricated construction for general contractors based on system dynamics10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0304Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMengkai LiuMeng LuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-0810.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0304https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0304/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Unveiling the social responsibility factors in new infrastructure constructionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0305/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSocial responsibility (SR) has become critical in facilitating the sustainability of new infrastructure construction (NIC) and is also a nonnegligible aspect in its management. Although studies attempting to explore this issue from various and disparate perspectives have become increasingly popular, no consensus has yet been reached regarding what SR factors affect NIC management. This paper aims to establish an inventory of SR factors for NIC and reveal a comprehensive framework for SR of NIC (NIC-SR) management through an in-depth analysis of the relationships among factors. This article proposes a mixed-review method that combines the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and content analysis methods as a solution. From 62 chosen publications on NIC-SR published in peer-reviewed journals between 2010 and 2022, a total of 44 SR factors were found. These 44 SR factors were divided into 4 interconnected categories: political, ethics-environmental, legal and economic. Based on the interactions among SR factors and incorporating the impact of the four categories of SR factors on NIC management, an integrated framework from micro to macro was developed. This paper educates researchers and practitioners about the SR factors that must be considered to improve the sustainability of NIC management and provides practical implications for architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) practices. Furthermore, it serves as an impetus for governments to improve their programs and policies and fulfill social responsibilities.Unveiling the social responsibility factors in new infrastructure construction
Long Li, Shuqi Wang, Saixing Zeng, Hanyang Ma, Ruiyan Zheng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Social responsibility (SR) has become critical in facilitating the sustainability of new infrastructure construction (NIC) and is also a nonnegligible aspect in its management. Although studies attempting to explore this issue from various and disparate perspectives have become increasingly popular, no consensus has yet been reached regarding what SR factors affect NIC management. This paper aims to establish an inventory of SR factors for NIC and reveal a comprehensive framework for SR of NIC (NIC-SR) management through an in-depth analysis of the relationships among factors.

This article proposes a mixed-review method that combines the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and content analysis methods as a solution.

From 62 chosen publications on NIC-SR published in peer-reviewed journals between 2010 and 2022, a total of 44 SR factors were found. These 44 SR factors were divided into 4 interconnected categories: political, ethics-environmental, legal and economic. Based on the interactions among SR factors and incorporating the impact of the four categories of SR factors on NIC management, an integrated framework from micro to macro was developed.

This paper educates researchers and practitioners about the SR factors that must be considered to improve the sustainability of NIC management and provides practical implications for architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) practices. Furthermore, it serves as an impetus for governments to improve their programs and policies and fulfill social responsibilities.

]]>
Unveiling the social responsibility factors in new infrastructure construction10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0305Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLong LiShuqi WangSaixing ZengHanyang MaRuiyan ZhengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1310.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0305https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-03-2023-0305/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Key influence factors on the evacuation route selection for fire emergencies in urban underground complexeshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0290/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe development of urban underground complexes (UUCs) has great positive significance for improving urban safety. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the key factors of the people's behavior of evacuation route selection (BERS) for fire emergencies and UUCs’ development. This study aims to find out the factors affecting people's BERS in the evacuation process of UUCs. This study aims to find out the factors affecting people's BERS in the evacuation process of UUCs. To achieve this goal, the authors conducted a field experiment in F City. Furthermore, the people's BERS are obtained by using a structural equation model and compared with the field test results. The authors found that the key factors for people's BERS are lighting conditions, route distance, flow direction guidance and indication. The results of this study contribute to the safety field by providing key factors for fire emergencies. It can also be used to improve fire safety management, evacuation strategies and assist in the development of intelligent evacuation systems. The results of this study contribute to the safety field by providing key factors for fire emergencies. It can also be used to improve fire safety management, evacuation strategies and assist in the development of intelligent evacuation systems.Key influence factors on the evacuation route selection for fire emergencies in urban underground complexes
Xiaojuan Li, Ching-Ter Chang, Yue-Yue Zhu, Lu-Lu Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The development of urban underground complexes (UUCs) has great positive significance for improving urban safety. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the key factors of the people's behavior of evacuation route selection (BERS) for fire emergencies and UUCs’ development. This study aims to find out the factors affecting people's BERS in the evacuation process of UUCs.

This study aims to find out the factors affecting people's BERS in the evacuation process of UUCs. To achieve this goal, the authors conducted a field experiment in F City. Furthermore, the people's BERS are obtained by using a structural equation model and compared with the field test results.

The authors found that the key factors for people's BERS are lighting conditions, route distance, flow direction guidance and indication. The results of this study contribute to the safety field by providing key factors for fire emergencies. It can also be used to improve fire safety management, evacuation strategies and assist in the development of intelligent evacuation systems.

The results of this study contribute to the safety field by providing key factors for fire emergencies. It can also be used to improve fire safety management, evacuation strategies and assist in the development of intelligent evacuation systems.

]]>
Key influence factors on the evacuation route selection for fire emergencies in urban underground complexes10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0290Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaojuan LiChing-Ter ChangYue-Yue ZhuLu-Lu LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-0810.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0290https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0290/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical factors influencing the failure of joint ventures in the South African construction industry: a confirmatory factor analysis approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0298/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestJoint ventures (JVs) serve as a viable tool in mitigating some of the challenges posed to the effective delivery of construction projects. However, JVs are highly susceptible to failure in most developing countries. Therefore, this study seeks to unravel the critical factors influencing the failure of JVs in the South African construction industry. A quantitative approach was adopted for the study using a well-structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. Respondents for the study were built environment professionals in Gauteng province in South Africa. Data elicited from respondents were analyzed using a four-pronged process which included descriptive statistics, one sample t-test, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Resulting from the analysis conducted, four critical components emerged as the major factors influencing the failure of JVs in the South African construction industry, which are inefficient financial framework, divergent organizational culture, poor project governance and inadequacies from project stakeholders. The outcome of this study presents a roadmap for stakeholders in the construction industry with the requisite knowledge of the critical factors leading to the failure of JVs, consequently providing a clear path for the successful delivery of JV mandates. Evidence from literature suggests that several studies have been conducted on the various aspects of JVs in the South African construction industry; however, none has focused on the leading factors attributed to the failure of JVs. Also, the findings of this study cultivate a good theoretical platform for future studies on JVs.Critical factors influencing the failure of joint ventures in the South African construction industry: a confirmatory factor analysis approach
Matthew Osivue Ikuabe, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala, Donald Chiyangwa, Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Joint ventures (JVs) serve as a viable tool in mitigating some of the challenges posed to the effective delivery of construction projects. However, JVs are highly susceptible to failure in most developing countries. Therefore, this study seeks to unravel the critical factors influencing the failure of JVs in the South African construction industry.

A quantitative approach was adopted for the study using a well-structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. Respondents for the study were built environment professionals in Gauteng province in South Africa. Data elicited from respondents were analyzed using a four-pronged process which included descriptive statistics, one sample t-test, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Resulting from the analysis conducted, four critical components emerged as the major factors influencing the failure of JVs in the South African construction industry, which are inefficient financial framework, divergent organizational culture, poor project governance and inadequacies from project stakeholders.

The outcome of this study presents a roadmap for stakeholders in the construction industry with the requisite knowledge of the critical factors leading to the failure of JVs, consequently providing a clear path for the successful delivery of JV mandates.

Evidence from literature suggests that several studies have been conducted on the various aspects of JVs in the South African construction industry; however, none has focused on the leading factors attributed to the failure of JVs. Also, the findings of this study cultivate a good theoretical platform for future studies on JVs.

]]>
Critical factors influencing the failure of joint ventures in the South African construction industry: a confirmatory factor analysis approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0298Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-13© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedMatthew Osivue IkuabeClinton Ohis AigbavboaWellington Didibhuku ThwalaDonald ChiyangwaAyodeji Emmanuel OkeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1310.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0298https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0298/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Social risk analysis for mega construction projects based on structural equation model and Bayesian network: a risk evolution perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0319/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMega construction projects (MCPs), which play an important role in the economy, society and environment of a country, have developed rapidly in recent years. However, due to frequent social conflicts caused by the negative social impact of MCPs, social risk control has become a major challenge. Exploring the relationship between social risk factors and social risk from the perspective of risk evolution and identifying key factors contribute to social risk control; but few studies have paid enough attention to this. Therefore, this study aims to systematically analyze the impact of social risk factors on social risk based on a social risk evolution path. This study proposed a social risk evolution path for MCPs explaining how social risk occurs and develops with the impact of social risk factors. To further analyze the impact quantitatively, a social risk analysis model combining structural equation model (SEM) with Bayesian network (BN) was developed. SEM was used to verify the relationship in the social risk evolution path. BN was applied to identify key social risk factors and predict the probabilities of social risk, quantitatively. The feasibility of the proposed model was verified by the case of water conservancy projects. The results show that negative impact on residents’ living standards, public opinion advantage and emergency management ability were key social risk factors through sensitivity analysis. Then, scenario analysis simulated the risk probability results with the impact of different states of these key factors to obtain management strategies. This study creatively proposes a social risk evolution path describing the dynamic interaction of the social risk and first applies the hybrid SEM–BN method in the social risk analysis for MCPs to explore effective risk control strategies. This study can facilitate the understanding of social risk from the perspective of risk evolution and provide decision-making support for the government coping with social risk in the implementation of MCPs.Social risk analysis for mega construction projects based on structural equation model and Bayesian network: a risk evolution perspective
Ying Lu, Jie Liu, Wenhui Yu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Mega construction projects (MCPs), which play an important role in the economy, society and environment of a country, have developed rapidly in recent years. However, due to frequent social conflicts caused by the negative social impact of MCPs, social risk control has become a major challenge. Exploring the relationship between social risk factors and social risk from the perspective of risk evolution and identifying key factors contribute to social risk control; but few studies have paid enough attention to this. Therefore, this study aims to systematically analyze the impact of social risk factors on social risk based on a social risk evolution path.

This study proposed a social risk evolution path for MCPs explaining how social risk occurs and develops with the impact of social risk factors. To further analyze the impact quantitatively, a social risk analysis model combining structural equation model (SEM) with Bayesian network (BN) was developed. SEM was used to verify the relationship in the social risk evolution path. BN was applied to identify key social risk factors and predict the probabilities of social risk, quantitatively. The feasibility of the proposed model was verified by the case of water conservancy projects.

The results show that negative impact on residents’ living standards, public opinion advantage and emergency management ability were key social risk factors through sensitivity analysis. Then, scenario analysis simulated the risk probability results with the impact of different states of these key factors to obtain management strategies.

This study creatively proposes a social risk evolution path describing the dynamic interaction of the social risk and first applies the hybrid SEM–BN method in the social risk analysis for MCPs to explore effective risk control strategies. This study can facilitate the understanding of social risk from the perspective of risk evolution and provide decision-making support for the government coping with social risk in the implementation of MCPs.

]]>
Social risk analysis for mega construction projects based on structural equation model and Bayesian network: a risk evolution perspective10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0319Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYing LuJie LiuWenhui YuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-0310.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0319https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0319/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Transforming vertical leadership into shared leadership in infrastructure project teams: a dual-pathway perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0323/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInfrastructure projects are pivotal for regional economic development, but also face low project effectiveness. Leadership is always regarded as a key enabler for project team effectiveness, including vertical leadership and team-level leadership. The purpose of this paper is to examine how vertical leadership facilitates shared leadership in infrastructure project teams. This paper develops the conceptual model based on the literature review. Then the questionnaire survey was conducted. The empirical data obtained from 117 infrastructure project teams in China were analyzed by partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for validating the proposed model. Finally, the results were comparatively discussed to explain the dual-pathway between vertical leadership and shared leadership. And the practical implications were presented for the project managers in infrastructure project teams. Drawing on social learning theory and social cognitive theory, the results show that both participative leadership and task-oriented leadership can facilitate shared leadership. Further, team atmosphere fully mediates the link between participative leadership and shared leadership. Team efficacy fully mediates the relation between task-oriented leadership and shared leadership. Also, role clarity has a negative moderating effect on the former path. The study extends the knowledge of leadership theory in the construction field. Based on the proposed conceptual model and PLS-SEM results, this study unveils the black box between vertical leadership and shared leadership and contributes to the theory of leadership on how the impact of different vertical leadership on team process promotes shared leadership.Transforming vertical leadership into shared leadership in infrastructure project teams: a dual-pathway perspective
Xueqing Gan, Jianyao Jia, Yun Le, Yi Hu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Infrastructure projects are pivotal for regional economic development, but also face low project effectiveness. Leadership is always regarded as a key enabler for project team effectiveness, including vertical leadership and team-level leadership. The purpose of this paper is to examine how vertical leadership facilitates shared leadership in infrastructure project teams.

This paper develops the conceptual model based on the literature review. Then the questionnaire survey was conducted. The empirical data obtained from 117 infrastructure project teams in China were analyzed by partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for validating the proposed model. Finally, the results were comparatively discussed to explain the dual-pathway between vertical leadership and shared leadership. And the practical implications were presented for the project managers in infrastructure project teams.

Drawing on social learning theory and social cognitive theory, the results show that both participative leadership and task-oriented leadership can facilitate shared leadership. Further, team atmosphere fully mediates the link between participative leadership and shared leadership. Team efficacy fully mediates the relation between task-oriented leadership and shared leadership. Also, role clarity has a negative moderating effect on the former path.

The study extends the knowledge of leadership theory in the construction field. Based on the proposed conceptual model and PLS-SEM results, this study unveils the black box between vertical leadership and shared leadership and contributes to the theory of leadership on how the impact of different vertical leadership on team process promotes shared leadership.

]]>
Transforming vertical leadership into shared leadership in infrastructure project teams: a dual-pathway perspective10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0323Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXueqing GanJianyao JiaYun LeYi HuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2010.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0323https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0323/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing a weighted synergy network–based model for selecting prefabricated construction serviceshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0334/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection. This research defines prefabricated construction service as a service-led construction method that meets the specific requirements of clients. Based on network theory, the multi-dimensional collaborative relationships of the prefabricated construction inter-services are formulated. The synergy effect is quantitatively calculated through the linear weighting of the strengths of collaborative relationships. Further, a weighted synergy network (WSN) is developed, from which a service composition selection model considering the synergy effect is established. Then, a genetic algorithm is employed to implement the model. The results showed that (1) when the number of prefabricated construction services is increased, the synergy effect of combination options is enhanced; (2) The finer-grained prefabricated construction services, the stronger the synergy effect of service combination; (3) Clients have heterogeneous preferences for collaborative relationships, and there are differences in the synergy effect of service combination. The contribution of this research includes proposed a method to quantify the synergy effect from the perspective of collaborative relationships, explored the specific procedure for the prefabricated construction service combination selection under the service-led construction, and provided a reference for promoting the development in construction. Besides, the model proposed could be applied to prefabricated construction service composition selection with diverse research boundaries or client preferences by executing the same procedure.Developing a weighted synergy network–based model for selecting prefabricated construction services
Xiaomin Qi, Qiang Du, Patrick X.W. Zou, Ning Huang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model considering synergy effect for prefabricated construction service combination selection.

This research defines prefabricated construction service as a service-led construction method that meets the specific requirements of clients. Based on network theory, the multi-dimensional collaborative relationships of the prefabricated construction inter-services are formulated. The synergy effect is quantitatively calculated through the linear weighting of the strengths of collaborative relationships. Further, a weighted synergy network (WSN) is developed, from which a service composition selection model considering the synergy effect is established. Then, a genetic algorithm is employed to implement the model.

The results showed that (1) when the number of prefabricated construction services is increased, the synergy effect of combination options is enhanced; (2) The finer-grained prefabricated construction services, the stronger the synergy effect of service combination; (3) Clients have heterogeneous preferences for collaborative relationships, and there are differences in the synergy effect of service combination.

The contribution of this research includes proposed a method to quantify the synergy effect from the perspective of collaborative relationships, explored the specific procedure for the prefabricated construction service combination selection under the service-led construction, and provided a reference for promoting the development in construction. Besides, the model proposed could be applied to prefabricated construction service composition selection with diverse research boundaries or client preferences by executing the same procedure.

]]>
Developing a weighted synergy network–based model for selecting prefabricated construction services10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0334Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-04© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaomin QiQiang DuPatrick X.W. ZouNing HuangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-0410.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0334https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0334/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Research on the construction safety risk assessment of prefabricated subway stations in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0340/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrefabricated technology is gradually being applied to the construction of subway stations due to its characteristic of mechanization. However, the prefabricated subway station in China is in the initial stage of development, which is prone to construction safety issues. This study aims to evaluate the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations in China and formulate corresponding countermeasures to ensure construction safety. A construction safety risk evaluation index system for the prefabricated subway station was established through literature research and the Delphi method. Furthermore, based on the structure entropy weight method, matter-element theory and evidence theory, a hybrid evaluation model is developed to evaluate the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations. The basic probability assignment (BPA) function is obtained using the matter-element theory, the index weight is calculated using the structure entropy weight method to modify the BPA function and the risk evaluation level is determined using the evidence theory. Finally, the reliability and applicability of the evaluation model are verified with a case study of a prefabricated subway station project in China. The results indicate that the level of construction safety risks in the prefabricated subway station project is relatively low. Man risk, machine risk and method risk are the key factors affecting the overall risk of the project. The evaluation results of the first-level indexes are discussed, and targeted countermeasures are proposed. Therefore, management personnel can deeply understand the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations. This research fills the research gap in the field of construction safety risk assessment of prefabricated subway stations. The methods for construction safety risk assessment are summarized to establish a reliable hybrid evaluation model, laying the foundation for future research. Moreover, the construction safety risk evaluation index system for prefabricated subway stations is proposed, which can be adopted to guide construction safety management.Research on the construction safety risk assessment of prefabricated subway stations in China
Zhenhua Luo, Juntao Guo, Jianqiang Han, Yuhong Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Prefabricated technology is gradually being applied to the construction of subway stations due to its characteristic of mechanization. However, the prefabricated subway station in China is in the initial stage of development, which is prone to construction safety issues. This study aims to evaluate the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations in China and formulate corresponding countermeasures to ensure construction safety.

A construction safety risk evaluation index system for the prefabricated subway station was established through literature research and the Delphi method. Furthermore, based on the structure entropy weight method, matter-element theory and evidence theory, a hybrid evaluation model is developed to evaluate the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations. The basic probability assignment (BPA) function is obtained using the matter-element theory, the index weight is calculated using the structure entropy weight method to modify the BPA function and the risk evaluation level is determined using the evidence theory. Finally, the reliability and applicability of the evaluation model are verified with a case study of a prefabricated subway station project in China.

The results indicate that the level of construction safety risks in the prefabricated subway station project is relatively low. Man risk, machine risk and method risk are the key factors affecting the overall risk of the project. The evaluation results of the first-level indexes are discussed, and targeted countermeasures are proposed. Therefore, management personnel can deeply understand the construction safety risks of prefabricated subway stations.

This research fills the research gap in the field of construction safety risk assessment of prefabricated subway stations. The methods for construction safety risk assessment are summarized to establish a reliable hybrid evaluation model, laying the foundation for future research. Moreover, the construction safety risk evaluation index system for prefabricated subway stations is proposed, which can be adopted to guide construction safety management.

]]>
Research on the construction safety risk assessment of prefabricated subway stations in China10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0340Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-13© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhenhua LuoJuntao GuoJianqiang HanYuhong WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1310.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0340https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0340/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Knowledge extraction for solving resource-constrained project scheduling problem through decision treehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0345/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestProject scheduling plays an essential role in the implementation of a project due to the limitation of resources in practical projects. However, the existing research tend to focus on finding suitable algorithms to solve various scheduling problems and fail to find the potential scheduling rules in these optimal or near-optimal solutions, that is, the possible intrinsic relationships between attributes related to the scheduling of activity sequences. Data mining (DM) is used to analyze and interpret data to obtain valuable information stored in large-scale data. The goal of this paper is to use DM to discover scheduling concepts and obtain a set of rules that approximate effective solutions to resource-constrained project scheduling problems. These rules do not require any search and simulation, which have extremely low time complexity and support real-time decision-making to improve planning/scheduling. The resource-constrained project scheduling problem can be described as scheduling a group of interrelated activities to optimize the project completion time and other objectives while satisfying the activity priority relationship and resource constraints. This paper proposes a new approach to solve the resource-constrained project scheduling problem by combining DM technology and the genetic algorithm (GA). More specifically, the GA is used to generate various optimal project scheduling schemes, after that C4.5 decision tree (DT) is adopted to obtain valuable knowledge from these schemes for further predicting and solving new scheduling problems. In this study, the authors use GA and DM technology to analyze and extract knowledge from a large number of scheduling schemes, and determine the scheduling rule set to minimize the completion time. In order to verify the application effect of the proposed DT classification model, the J30, J60 and J120 datasets in PSPLIB are used to test the validity of the scheduling rules. The results show that DT can readily duplicate the excellent performance of GA for scheduling problems of different scales. In addition, the DT prediction model developed in this study is applied to a high-rise residential project consisting of 117 activities. The results show that compared with the completion time obtained by GA, the DT model can realize rapid adjustment of project scheduling problem to deal with the dynamic environment interference. In a word, the data-based approach is feasible, practical and effective. It not only captures the knowledge contained in the known optimal scheduling schemes, but also helps to provide a flexible scheduling decision-making approach for project implementation. This paper proposes a novel knowledge-based project scheduling approach. In previous studies, intelligent optimization algorithm is often used to solve the project scheduling problem. However, although these intelligent optimization algorithms can generate a set of effective solutions for problem instances, they are unable to explain the process of decision-making, nor can they identify the characteristics of good scheduling decisions generated by the optimization process. Moreover, their calculation is slow and complex, which is not suitable for planning and scheduling complex projects. In this study, the set of effective solutions of problem instances is taken as the training dataset of DM algorithm, and the extracted scheduling rules can provide the prediction and solution of new scheduling problems. The proposed method focuses on identifying the key parameters of a specific dynamic scheduling environment, which can not only reproduces the scheduling performance of the original algorithm well, but also has the ability to make decisions quickly under the dynamic interference construction scenario. It is helpful for project managers to implement quick decisions in response to construction emergencies, which is of great practical significance for improving the flexibility and efficiency of construction projects.Knowledge extraction for solving resource-constrained project scheduling problem through decision tree
Lin-Lin Xie, Yajiao Chen, Sisi Wu, Rui-Dong Chang, Yilong Han
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Project scheduling plays an essential role in the implementation of a project due to the limitation of resources in practical projects. However, the existing research tend to focus on finding suitable algorithms to solve various scheduling problems and fail to find the potential scheduling rules in these optimal or near-optimal solutions, that is, the possible intrinsic relationships between attributes related to the scheduling of activity sequences. Data mining (DM) is used to analyze and interpret data to obtain valuable information stored in large-scale data. The goal of this paper is to use DM to discover scheduling concepts and obtain a set of rules that approximate effective solutions to resource-constrained project scheduling problems. These rules do not require any search and simulation, which have extremely low time complexity and support real-time decision-making to improve planning/scheduling.

The resource-constrained project scheduling problem can be described as scheduling a group of interrelated activities to optimize the project completion time and other objectives while satisfying the activity priority relationship and resource constraints. This paper proposes a new approach to solve the resource-constrained project scheduling problem by combining DM technology and the genetic algorithm (GA). More specifically, the GA is used to generate various optimal project scheduling schemes, after that C4.5 decision tree (DT) is adopted to obtain valuable knowledge from these schemes for further predicting and solving new scheduling problems.

In this study, the authors use GA and DM technology to analyze and extract knowledge from a large number of scheduling schemes, and determine the scheduling rule set to minimize the completion time. In order to verify the application effect of the proposed DT classification model, the J30, J60 and J120 datasets in PSPLIB are used to test the validity of the scheduling rules. The results show that DT can readily duplicate the excellent performance of GA for scheduling problems of different scales. In addition, the DT prediction model developed in this study is applied to a high-rise residential project consisting of 117 activities. The results show that compared with the completion time obtained by GA, the DT model can realize rapid adjustment of project scheduling problem to deal with the dynamic environment interference. In a word, the data-based approach is feasible, practical and effective. It not only captures the knowledge contained in the known optimal scheduling schemes, but also helps to provide a flexible scheduling decision-making approach for project implementation.

This paper proposes a novel knowledge-based project scheduling approach. In previous studies, intelligent optimization algorithm is often used to solve the project scheduling problem. However, although these intelligent optimization algorithms can generate a set of effective solutions for problem instances, they are unable to explain the process of decision-making, nor can they identify the characteristics of good scheduling decisions generated by the optimization process. Moreover, their calculation is slow and complex, which is not suitable for planning and scheduling complex projects. In this study, the set of effective solutions of problem instances is taken as the training dataset of DM algorithm, and the extracted scheduling rules can provide the prediction and solution of new scheduling problems. The proposed method focuses on identifying the key parameters of a specific dynamic scheduling environment, which can not only reproduces the scheduling performance of the original algorithm well, but also has the ability to make decisions quickly under the dynamic interference construction scenario. It is helpful for project managers to implement quick decisions in response to construction emergencies, which is of great practical significance for improving the flexibility and efficiency of construction projects.

]]>
Knowledge extraction for solving resource-constrained project scheduling problem through decision tree10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0345Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLin-Lin XieYajiao ChenSisi WuRui-Dong ChangYilong HanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0345https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0345/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Does “low-carbon pilot policy” affect the carbon intensity of construction industry? Exploring the implementation mechanism and effectiveness in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0364/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCarbon reduction in the construction industry is related to the achievement of carbon emission peaks and carbon neutrality targets. Therefore, exploring the influence of current carbon reduction policies on the construction industry is necessary. China’s low-carbon pilot (LCP) policy has been extensively studied, while LCPs mechanism and effectiveness on carbon reduction in the construction industry remain to be explored. This study selected four provincial LCP regions as case studies and adopted the grounded theory method for case studies to analyze the implementation mechanism of the LCP policy on carbon reduction in the construction industry. Then, this study adopted the propensity score matching and difference-in-differences regression (PSM-DID) approach to evaluate the influence of the LCP policy on carbon intensity (CI) in the construction industry by using panel data taken from 30 provinces in China between 2008 and 2017. The authors found that (1) the LCP policy promotes carbon reduction in the construction industry through the crossing implementation mechanism of five vertical support approaches and five horizontal support approaches. (2). The LCP policy can significantly reduce CI in the construction industry. The study not only explored how is the LCP policy implemented, but also examined the effectiveness of the LCP policy in the construction industry. The policy implications of this study can help policy-makers better achieve low-carbon development targets in the construction industry.Does “low-carbon pilot policy” affect the carbon intensity of construction industry? Exploring the implementation mechanism and effectiveness in China
Qi Wang, Andrea Appolloni, Junqi Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Carbon reduction in the construction industry is related to the achievement of carbon emission peaks and carbon neutrality targets. Therefore, exploring the influence of current carbon reduction policies on the construction industry is necessary. China’s low-carbon pilot (LCP) policy has been extensively studied, while LCPs mechanism and effectiveness on carbon reduction in the construction industry remain to be explored.

This study selected four provincial LCP regions as case studies and adopted the grounded theory method for case studies to analyze the implementation mechanism of the LCP policy on carbon reduction in the construction industry. Then, this study adopted the propensity score matching and difference-in-differences regression (PSM-DID) approach to evaluate the influence of the LCP policy on carbon intensity (CI) in the construction industry by using panel data taken from 30 provinces in China between 2008 and 2017.

The authors found that (1) the LCP policy promotes carbon reduction in the construction industry through the crossing implementation mechanism of five vertical support approaches and five horizontal support approaches. (2). The LCP policy can significantly reduce CI in the construction industry.

The study not only explored how is the LCP policy implemented, but also examined the effectiveness of the LCP policy in the construction industry. The policy implications of this study can help policy-makers better achieve low-carbon development targets in the construction industry.

]]>
Does “low-carbon pilot policy” affect the carbon intensity of construction industry? Exploring the implementation mechanism and effectiveness in China10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0364Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedQi WangAndrea AppolloniJunqi LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2310.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0364https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0364/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing a systematic performance measurement framework for benchmarking steel modular building constructionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0377/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestModular construction is an innovative method that enhances the performance of building construction projects. However, the performance of steel modular construction has not been systematically understood, and the existing measurement methods exhibit limitations in effectively addressing the features of steel modular building construction. Therefore, this study aims to develop a new performance measurement framework for systematically examining the performance of steel modular construction in building projects. This study was conducted through a mixed-method research design that combines a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art practices of construction performance measurement and a case study with a 17-story steel modular apartment building project in Hong Kong. The case project was measured with data collected from the project teams and other reliable channels, and the measurement practices and findings were referenced to establish a systematic performance measurement framework for steel modular construction. Considering steel modular construction as a complex socio-technical system, a systematic performance measurement framework was developed, which considers the features of steel modular construction, focuses on the construction stage, incorporates the views of various stakeholders, integrates generic and specific key performance indicators and provides a benchmarking process. Multifaceted benefits of adopting steel modular construction were demonstrated with case study, including improved economic efficiency (e.g. nearly 10% cost savings), improved environmental friendliness (e.g. approximately 90% waste reduction) and enhanced social welfare (e.g. over 60% delivery trips reduction). This paper extends the existing performance measurement methods with a new framework proposed and offers experience for future steel modular construction. The measured performance of the case project also contributes in-depth understanding on steel modular construction with benefits demonstrated. The study is expected to accelerate an effective uptake of steel modular construction in building projects.Developing a systematic performance measurement framework for benchmarking steel modular building construction
Tianyao Ping, Wei Pan, Zhiqian Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Modular construction is an innovative method that enhances the performance of building construction projects. However, the performance of steel modular construction has not been systematically understood, and the existing measurement methods exhibit limitations in effectively addressing the features of steel modular building construction. Therefore, this study aims to develop a new performance measurement framework for systematically examining the performance of steel modular construction in building projects.

This study was conducted through a mixed-method research design that combines a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art practices of construction performance measurement and a case study with a 17-story steel modular apartment building project in Hong Kong. The case project was measured with data collected from the project teams and other reliable channels, and the measurement practices and findings were referenced to establish a systematic performance measurement framework for steel modular construction.

Considering steel modular construction as a complex socio-technical system, a systematic performance measurement framework was developed, which considers the features of steel modular construction, focuses on the construction stage, incorporates the views of various stakeholders, integrates generic and specific key performance indicators and provides a benchmarking process. Multifaceted benefits of adopting steel modular construction were demonstrated with case study, including improved economic efficiency (e.g. nearly 10% cost savings), improved environmental friendliness (e.g. approximately 90% waste reduction) and enhanced social welfare (e.g. over 60% delivery trips reduction).

This paper extends the existing performance measurement methods with a new framework proposed and offers experience for future steel modular construction. The measured performance of the case project also contributes in-depth understanding on steel modular construction with benefits demonstrated. The study is expected to accelerate an effective uptake of steel modular construction in building projects.

]]>
Developing a systematic performance measurement framework for benchmarking steel modular building construction10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0377Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedTianyao PingWei PanZhiqian ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-2110.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0377https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2022-0377/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring the application of PLS-SEM in construction management research: a bibliometric and meta-analysis approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0316/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach for construction management (CM) scholars has become the preferred approach for its capability of assessing the complex relationship and relaxed normality and sample size assumptions. This paper systematically maps the structure of knowledge about PLS-SEM in CM using bibliometric analysis. Also, the study employs meta-analysis to explore how data and model characteristics, model evaluation and advanced modeling techniques have been utilized in the CM domain. This study integrated two methods: bibliometric analysis on a sample of 211 articles identified using the PRISMA framework and meta-analysis on 163 articles identified based on the availability of full-length articles and relevant information. The results revealed the leading knowledge formation entities (countries, institutions, authors, sources and documents). Also, the study employs full content analysis to identify six research themes, and meta-analysis is used to explore the use of PLS-SEM based on the following criteria: (1) reasons for using PLS-SEM in CM, (2) data characteristics, (3) model characteristics and evaluation and (4) use of advanced modeling and analysis techniques. Further, the study uses regression analysis and identifies “advanced modeling and analysis techniques” as the critical feature responsible for the publication in a journal with high scientific prestige. Finally, the study presented the comprehensive guidelines to be used by construction management scholars who wish to use PLS-SEM in their research work. To the author’s knowledge, it is the first study of this kind to use PLS-SEM in CM research. This study provides an extensive analysis of the Scopus database and an in-depth review of the data characteristics, model characteristics and use of advanced modeling techniques in CM research.Exploring the application of PLS-SEM in construction management research: a bibliometric and meta-analysis approach
Sachin Batra
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach for construction management (CM) scholars has become the preferred approach for its capability of assessing the complex relationship and relaxed normality and sample size assumptions. This paper systematically maps the structure of knowledge about PLS-SEM in CM using bibliometric analysis. Also, the study employs meta-analysis to explore how data and model characteristics, model evaluation and advanced modeling techniques have been utilized in the CM domain.

This study integrated two methods: bibliometric analysis on a sample of 211 articles identified using the PRISMA framework and meta-analysis on 163 articles identified based on the availability of full-length articles and relevant information.

The results revealed the leading knowledge formation entities (countries, institutions, authors, sources and documents). Also, the study employs full content analysis to identify six research themes, and meta-analysis is used to explore the use of PLS-SEM based on the following criteria: (1) reasons for using PLS-SEM in CM, (2) data characteristics, (3) model characteristics and evaluation and (4) use of advanced modeling and analysis techniques. Further, the study uses regression analysis and identifies “advanced modeling and analysis techniques” as the critical feature responsible for the publication in a journal with high scientific prestige. Finally, the study presented the comprehensive guidelines to be used by construction management scholars who wish to use PLS-SEM in their research work.

To the author’s knowledge, it is the first study of this kind to use PLS-SEM in CM research. This study provides an extensive analysis of the Scopus database and an in-depth review of the data characteristics, model characteristics and use of advanced modeling techniques in CM research.

]]>
Exploring the application of PLS-SEM in construction management research: a bibliometric and meta-analysis approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0316Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSachin BatraEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-1010.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0316https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0316/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Linking frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision to work engagement: job insecurity as the game-changing mediation and job alternative as a moderatorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0317/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research focuses on exploring a psychological mechanism between abusive supervision and job engagement via job insecurity and job alternative to understand how frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision impacts on their work engagement. This study draws on the conservation of resources theory (COR) to postulate that workers' job insecurity acts as a mediation between abusive supervision and work engagement, and the perception of job alternative moderates the impact of abusive supervision on job insecurity. This study empirically tests survey data from 357 frontline construction workers and adopts partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed model. This paper proved the dark-side of abusive supervision, dual character of job insecurity and moderating role of job alternative. The game-changing mediation effects of job insecurity were examined, which suggested that work engagement would be higher when abusive supervision stimulates stronger job insecurity. Furthermore, the result indicated that the relationship between abusive supervision and job insecurity should be weaker when job alternative is high. This research suggests construction project managers (CPMs) must take steps such as enhancing supervisors' emotional management skills to control frequency of abuse and thus lessen compromising engagement. Moreover, overall understanding frontline workers' job insecurity is meaningful for better construction performance management. This research contributes to the disputed leadership style (abusive supervision) and positive psychology knowledge (work engagement) in construction projects by unveiling the psychosocial mechanism (game-changing effects of job insecurity) of construction frontline workers positive engaged feeling. This study highlights the function of personal and job resources in process of resource conservation.Linking frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision to work engagement: job insecurity as the game-changing mediation and job alternative as a moderator
Xiaoli Wu, Lianying Zhang, Cailin Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research focuses on exploring a psychological mechanism between abusive supervision and job engagement via job insecurity and job alternative to understand how frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision impacts on their work engagement.

This study draws on the conservation of resources theory (COR) to postulate that workers' job insecurity acts as a mediation between abusive supervision and work engagement, and the perception of job alternative moderates the impact of abusive supervision on job insecurity. This study empirically tests survey data from 357 frontline construction workers and adopts partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed model.

This paper proved the dark-side of abusive supervision, dual character of job insecurity and moderating role of job alternative. The game-changing mediation effects of job insecurity were examined, which suggested that work engagement would be higher when abusive supervision stimulates stronger job insecurity. Furthermore, the result indicated that the relationship between abusive supervision and job insecurity should be weaker when job alternative is high.

This research suggests construction project managers (CPMs) must take steps such as enhancing supervisors' emotional management skills to control frequency of abuse and thus lessen compromising engagement. Moreover, overall understanding frontline workers' job insecurity is meaningful for better construction performance management.

This research contributes to the disputed leadership style (abusive supervision) and positive psychology knowledge (work engagement) in construction projects by unveiling the psychosocial mechanism (game-changing effects of job insecurity) of construction frontline workers positive engaged feeling. This study highlights the function of personal and job resources in process of resource conservation.

]]>
Linking frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision to work engagement: job insecurity as the game-changing mediation and job alternative as a moderator10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0317Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoli WuLianying ZhangCailin ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3010.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0317https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0317/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How to mobilize owner-dynamic capabilities in megaprojects? A tripartite evolutionary game approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0323/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCurrently, many studies have shown an increasing interest in owner-dynamic capabilities (ODCs). Existing studies mainly focus on the dynamic capability basis and capability development within the owner organization, whereas they rarely analyze the capability mobilization within the network of participants in megaprojects. Therefore, this study aims to explain the interaction and evolution of the mobilization strategies of ODCs and the cooperative strategies of other participants. This study develops a tripartite evolutionary game model to analyze the evolutionarily stable strategy of the owner, the reciprocal participants and the general participants. Results are numerically simulated with a validation case. The asymptotic stability of multiple group strategies is discussed under the replicator dynamic system. This study suggests that resource complementarity significantly reduces the difficulty of mobilization. Moreover, these strategies are only effective with sufficient ODCs. The results indicate that reciprocal participants are more sensitive to the change in resource complementarity. This study provides strategic guidance for mobilizing ODCs in megaprojects to better embrace uncertainty and stress, contributing to the dynamic capability literature with an evolutionary game approach. And new insight for the study of reciprocity preference in megaprojects is also provided.How to mobilize owner-dynamic capabilities in megaprojects? A tripartite evolutionary game approach
Zidan Tian, Qinghua He, Ting Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Currently, many studies have shown an increasing interest in owner-dynamic capabilities (ODCs). Existing studies mainly focus on the dynamic capability basis and capability development within the owner organization, whereas they rarely analyze the capability mobilization within the network of participants in megaprojects. Therefore, this study aims to explain the interaction and evolution of the mobilization strategies of ODCs and the cooperative strategies of other participants.

This study develops a tripartite evolutionary game model to analyze the evolutionarily stable strategy of the owner, the reciprocal participants and the general participants. Results are numerically simulated with a validation case. The asymptotic stability of multiple group strategies is discussed under the replicator dynamic system.

This study suggests that resource complementarity significantly reduces the difficulty of mobilization. Moreover, these strategies are only effective with sufficient ODCs. The results indicate that reciprocal participants are more sensitive to the change in resource complementarity.

This study provides strategic guidance for mobilizing ODCs in megaprojects to better embrace uncertainty and stress, contributing to the dynamic capability literature with an evolutionary game approach. And new insight for the study of reciprocity preference in megaprojects is also provided.

]]>
How to mobilize owner-dynamic capabilities in megaprojects? A tripartite evolutionary game approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0323Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedZidan TianQinghua HeTing WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1110.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0323https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0323/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influence of augmented reality and virtual reality on real estate investment decisions: understand consumer perspective in Indian AEC industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0327/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAugmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies possess the potential to transform the scenario of making real estate investment decisions through the immersive experience they offer. From the literature it was observed that the research in this domain is still emergent and there is a need to identify the latent variables that influence real estate investment decisions. Therefore, by examining the effects of these technologies on investment decision-making, the purpose of the study is to provide valuable insights into how AR and VR could be applied to enhance customers' property buying experiences and assist in their decision-making process. From an extensive review of the literature four latent variables and their measure were identified, and based on these a survey instrument was developed. The survey was distributed online and received 300 responses from the respondents including home buyers, developers, AEC professionals and real estate agents. To validate the latent variables exploratory factor analysis was used whereas to establish their criticality second-order confirmatory factor analysis was used. From the results, the four latent constructs were identified based on standard factor loadings (SFL) that is Confident Value Perception (CVP, SFL = 0.70), Innovative Investment Appeal (IIA, SFL = 0.60), Trusted Property Transactions (TPT, SFL = 0.58) and Effortless Property Engagement (EPE, SFL = 0.54), that significantly influence investor decision-making and property purchase experience. This study contributes to the literature on real estate investment decisions by providing empirical evidence on the role of AR and VR technologies. The identified key variables provided practical guidelines for developers, investors and policymakers in understanding and leveraging the potential of AR and VR technologies in the real estate industry.Influence of augmented reality and virtual reality on real estate investment decisions: understand consumer perspective in Indian AEC industry
Shumank Deep, Sushant Vishnoi, Radhika Malhotra, Smriti Mathur, Hrishikesh Yawale, Amit Kumar, Anju Singla
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies possess the potential to transform the scenario of making real estate investment decisions through the immersive experience they offer. From the literature it was observed that the research in this domain is still emergent and there is a need to identify the latent variables that influence real estate investment decisions. Therefore, by examining the effects of these technologies on investment decision-making, the purpose of the study is to provide valuable insights into how AR and VR could be applied to enhance customers' property buying experiences and assist in their decision-making process.

From an extensive review of the literature four latent variables and their measure were identified, and based on these a survey instrument was developed. The survey was distributed online and received 300 responses from the respondents including home buyers, developers, AEC professionals and real estate agents. To validate the latent variables exploratory factor analysis was used whereas to establish their criticality second-order confirmatory factor analysis was used.

From the results, the four latent constructs were identified based on standard factor loadings (SFL) that is Confident Value Perception (CVP, SFL = 0.70), Innovative Investment Appeal (IIA, SFL = 0.60), Trusted Property Transactions (TPT, SFL = 0.58) and Effortless Property Engagement (EPE, SFL = 0.54), that significantly influence investor decision-making and property purchase experience.

This study contributes to the literature on real estate investment decisions by providing empirical evidence on the role of AR and VR technologies. The identified key variables provided practical guidelines for developers, investors and policymakers in understanding and leveraging the potential of AR and VR technologies in the real estate industry.

]]>
Influence of augmented reality and virtual reality on real estate investment decisions: understand consumer perspective in Indian AEC industry10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0327Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedShumank DeepSushant VishnoiRadhika MalhotraSmriti MathurHrishikesh YawaleAmit KumarAnju SinglaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1210.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0327https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0327/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Heterogeneity in stakeholder's perceptions on delays in infrastructure projects: scenario of Bangladeshhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0330/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn Bangladesh (BD), delays in infrastructure are common. Many previous studies have explored the causes of infrastructure delays. However, this study investigated the causes of delays by taking responses from the stakeholders who are responsible for planning, design, funding, approval and implementation. There are few studies that have related infrastructure project delays to heterogeneity in stakeholders’ perceptions. A structural equation (SE) model is developed with 350 normally distributed data points to understand the heterogeneity in stakeholders’ perceptions regarding delays in infrastructure projects in BD. Additionally, the relative importance index (RII) approach is used to assess the responses, validating the SE model. The study finds that among the three latent variables, “Project itself related delay” has more influence on delays in infrastructure projects. Among the observed variables under the “project itself related delay” latent variable, “DPP approval process” has the most significance. From the heterogeneity analysis, the study found differences in responses among the stakeholders from “the Engineering Department,” “the Planning Office” and “the Construction Firm/Industry.” An important class of stakeholders believes that their stage is not being delayed and that other stages require attention. The data sample is 350. More data can improve the accuracy of the findings. Most of the respondents are civil engineers (74%) and represent the owner of the project. Sample data from more stakeholders’ will enhance the accuracy of the result. This study addresses the requirements of Bangladeshi project stakeholders and how their interactions cause delays in projects. Furthermore, the opinions of other stakeholders are taken into consideration when determining the specific factors of individual stakeholders that are causing delays. Practically, the distance between stakeholders should be reduced. A project manager can play a role in this regard. Initiatives should be taken on how to complete the project quickly by eliminating the requirements discussed among the stakeholders and bureaucratic complications. Instead of placing blame on one another, stakeholders should take the initiative to figure out how to work together to finish the project on schedule. The Planning Commission’s approval of the Development Project Proposal (DPP) and Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP) should be obtained as soon as possible by owner stakeholders. In order to avoid frequently changing the DPP, owners should also exercise greater caution when choosing contractors. Contractor stakeholders should use efficient and proper manpower and equipment so that unexpected delays are not created during the execution of work. Since the role of the contractor stakeholder is the most important among the three types of stakeholders, the contractor should raise awareness and urge the owners to get the RDPP approved quickly. The findings from the study can help mitigate delays in infrastructure projects in BD, taking into account the perceptions of various stakeholders.Heterogeneity in stakeholder's perceptions on delays in infrastructure projects: scenario of Bangladesh
Md. Mohaimenul Islam Sourav, Mohammed Russedul Islam, Sheikh Mohibur Rahman, Md. Istiak Jahan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In Bangladesh (BD), delays in infrastructure are common. Many previous studies have explored the causes of infrastructure delays. However, this study investigated the causes of delays by taking responses from the stakeholders who are responsible for planning, design, funding, approval and implementation. There are few studies that have related infrastructure project delays to heterogeneity in stakeholders’ perceptions.

A structural equation (SE) model is developed with 350 normally distributed data points to understand the heterogeneity in stakeholders’ perceptions regarding delays in infrastructure projects in BD. Additionally, the relative importance index (RII) approach is used to assess the responses, validating the SE model.

The study finds that among the three latent variables, “Project itself related delay” has more influence on delays in infrastructure projects. Among the observed variables under the “project itself related delay” latent variable, “DPP approval process” has the most significance. From the heterogeneity analysis, the study found differences in responses among the stakeholders from “the Engineering Department,” “the Planning Office” and “the Construction Firm/Industry.” An important class of stakeholders believes that their stage is not being delayed and that other stages require attention.

The data sample is 350. More data can improve the accuracy of the findings. Most of the respondents are civil engineers (74%) and represent the owner of the project. Sample data from more stakeholders’ will enhance the accuracy of the result.

This study addresses the requirements of Bangladeshi project stakeholders and how their interactions cause delays in projects. Furthermore, the opinions of other stakeholders are taken into consideration when determining the specific factors of individual stakeholders that are causing delays. Practically, the distance between stakeholders should be reduced. A project manager can play a role in this regard. Initiatives should be taken on how to complete the project quickly by eliminating the requirements discussed among the stakeholders and bureaucratic complications. Instead of placing blame on one another, stakeholders should take the initiative to figure out how to work together to finish the project on schedule. The Planning Commission’s approval of the Development Project Proposal (DPP) and Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP) should be obtained as soon as possible by owner stakeholders. In order to avoid frequently changing the DPP, owners should also exercise greater caution when choosing contractors. Contractor stakeholders should use efficient and proper manpower and equipment so that unexpected delays are not created during the execution of work. Since the role of the contractor stakeholder is the most important among the three types of stakeholders, the contractor should raise awareness and urge the owners to get the RDPP approved quickly.

The findings from the study can help mitigate delays in infrastructure projects in BD, taking into account the perceptions of various stakeholders.

]]>
Heterogeneity in stakeholder's perceptions on delays in infrastructure projects: scenario of Bangladesh10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0330Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-08© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedMd. Mohaimenul Islam SouravMohammed Russedul IslamSheikh Mohibur RahmanMd. Istiak JahanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-0810.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0330https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0330/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Enhancing the adoption of building information modeling in the Iranian AEC sector: insights from a Delphi studyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0335/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestArchitecture, engineering and construction (AEC) is an important industry worldwide and one of the largest economic sectors in several developing countries, particularly in Iran. The Iranian AEC sector suffers from low productivity and needs to adopt building information modeling (BIM) to reduce inefficiencies. Therefore, this paper was conducted to identify the BIM barriers and propose practical solutions to overcome them in Iran. A comprehensive literature review, two rounds of the Delphi technique and semi-structured interviews with 12 Iranian experts in the AEC sector were conducted. The data were analyzed using the mean score, standard deviation and nonparametric tests. The present study identified 26 BIM barriers in the Iranian AEC community and provided practical strategies for improving BIM adoption. The identified barriers were categorized into six main groups including source barriers, financial barriers, unawareness barriers, organizational barriers, regulatory barriers and market-demand barriers. The main three BIM barriers in Iran were the lack of government intervention, change-resistant and the gap between industry and academia. Kruskal–Wallis tests revealed that there are no statistically significant differences in perceptions of BIM barriers between respondents. The Mann–Whitney test indicated that there is no statistically significant difference in perceptions between engineers and architects except for one. There are few studies on BIM adoption across developing countries, particularly in Iran. Moreover, the results can also be used in other developing nations with similar conditions.Enhancing the adoption of building information modeling in the Iranian AEC sector: insights from a Delphi study
Nazanin Hatami, Ali Rashidi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) is an important industry worldwide and one of the largest economic sectors in several developing countries, particularly in Iran. The Iranian AEC sector suffers from low productivity and needs to adopt building information modeling (BIM) to reduce inefficiencies. Therefore, this paper was conducted to identify the BIM barriers and propose practical solutions to overcome them in Iran.

A comprehensive literature review, two rounds of the Delphi technique and semi-structured interviews with 12 Iranian experts in the AEC sector were conducted. The data were analyzed using the mean score, standard deviation and nonparametric tests.

The present study identified 26 BIM barriers in the Iranian AEC community and provided practical strategies for improving BIM adoption. The identified barriers were categorized into six main groups including source barriers, financial barriers, unawareness barriers, organizational barriers, regulatory barriers and market-demand barriers. The main three BIM barriers in Iran were the lack of government intervention, change-resistant and the gap between industry and academia. Kruskal–Wallis tests revealed that there are no statistically significant differences in perceptions of BIM barriers between respondents. The Mann–Whitney test indicated that there is no statistically significant difference in perceptions between engineers and architects except for one.

There are few studies on BIM adoption across developing countries, particularly in Iran. Moreover, the results can also be used in other developing nations with similar conditions.

]]>
Enhancing the adoption of building information modeling in the Iranian AEC sector: insights from a Delphi study10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0335Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNazanin HatamiAli RashidiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-3010.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0335https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0335/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Building information modeling (BIM) in project management: a bibliometric and science mapping reviewhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0355/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe impact of building information modeling (BIM) on various aspects of project management has attracted much attention in the past decade. However, previous studies have focused on a particular facet of project management (e.g., safety, quality, facility management) and within identified target journals. Despite numerous existing studies, there is limited research on the mainstream research topics, gaps and future research directions on BIM in project management. This study aims to conduct a bibliometric and science mapping review of published articles on BIM in project management and to identify mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions in this domain. A science mapping approach consisting of bibliometric search, scientometric analysis and qualitative discussion was used to analyze 521 journal articles that were retrieved from the Scopus database and related to BIM in project management. In the scientometric analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis and document analysis were performed. This was followed by a qualitative discussion that seeks to propose a framework summarizing the interconnection between the mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions. Six mainstream research topics were found including (1) BIM-enabled advanced digital technologies, (2) BIM-based reinforcement and enhancement, (3) BIM and project composition, (4) BIM project elements and attributes, (5) BIM-based collaboration and communication and (6) BIM-based information and data. Moreover, this study discussed six research gaps, namely, (1) integration of BIM and other digital technologies, (2) future maturity of BIM applications in project management, (3) application of BIM in project components and processes, (4) role of BIM application in project elements and attributes, (5) impact of collaboration and communication in BIM application and (6) stability of information and data interaction. Furthermore, future research directions were discussed. The findings and proposed framework contribute to providing a deeper understanding to researchers, policymakers and practitioners in the development of related research and practice in the domain of BIM in project management, thus, promoting digital transformation in project management. Overall, it adds to the global knowledge domain in BIM and promotes the need for digital and data integration, BIM maturity and BIM collaboration.Building information modeling (BIM) in project management: a bibliometric and science mapping review
Zhaofeng Ye, Maxwell Fordjour Antwi-Afari, Algan Tezel, Patrick Manu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The impact of building information modeling (BIM) on various aspects of project management has attracted much attention in the past decade. However, previous studies have focused on a particular facet of project management (e.g., safety, quality, facility management) and within identified target journals. Despite numerous existing studies, there is limited research on the mainstream research topics, gaps and future research directions on BIM in project management. This study aims to conduct a bibliometric and science mapping review of published articles on BIM in project management and to identify mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions in this domain.

A science mapping approach consisting of bibliometric search, scientometric analysis and qualitative discussion was used to analyze 521 journal articles that were retrieved from the Scopus database and related to BIM in project management. In the scientometric analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis and document analysis were performed. This was followed by a qualitative discussion that seeks to propose a framework summarizing the interconnection between the mainstream research topics, research gaps and future research directions.

Six mainstream research topics were found including (1) BIM-enabled advanced digital technologies, (2) BIM-based reinforcement and enhancement, (3) BIM and project composition, (4) BIM project elements and attributes, (5) BIM-based collaboration and communication and (6) BIM-based information and data. Moreover, this study discussed six research gaps, namely, (1) integration of BIM and other digital technologies, (2) future maturity of BIM applications in project management, (3) application of BIM in project components and processes, (4) role of BIM application in project elements and attributes, (5) impact of collaboration and communication in BIM application and (6) stability of information and data interaction. Furthermore, future research directions were discussed.

The findings and proposed framework contribute to providing a deeper understanding to researchers, policymakers and practitioners in the development of related research and practice in the domain of BIM in project management, thus, promoting digital transformation in project management. Overall, it adds to the global knowledge domain in BIM and promotes the need for digital and data integration, BIM maturity and BIM collaboration.

]]>
Building information modeling (BIM) in project management: a bibliometric and science mapping review10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0355Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-02© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhaofeng YeMaxwell Fordjour Antwi-AfariAlgan TezelPatrick ManuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0210.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0355https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0355/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Bridging the gap: assessing the person-organization fit between BIM education and industry expectations in Australiahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0366/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestA lack of suitably qualified Building Information Modelling (BIM) professionals is understood to be a major barrier towards higher uptakes of BIM in the Australian construction industry. In response, Australian universities have tried to integrate the teaching of BIM into construction-related curricula, but with limited success. The acknowledged impediment is the lingering mismatch between what universities offer and what industry actually needs. However, the exact nature of that mismatch has yet to be identified. This study addresses that knowledge gap. It assesses both the current status of BIM competencies among university graduates and explores how BIM education at Australian universities may be improved to deliver BIM work readiness, as required by the industry. This paper employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing 17 semi-structured interviews with experts in the Australian BIM industry. The Person-Organization (PO) fit theory, which emphasizes the congruence between individual and organizational characteristics, was utilized as a theoretical framework to examine the compatibility between “demand” and “ability” perspectives. The resulting data were analysed using this theoretical framework to gain insights into the PO fit perspectives in relation to BIM industry practices. Findings reveal that graduates are generally competent regarding the use of BIM software. However, employers require much more than software skills, and expect recruits to have the capability to implement BIM as a process according to information management standards. Specifically, graduates are significantly deficient in matters of BIM protocols, collaboration and coordination, information workflows as well as completion and handover procedures. This study is the first of its kind that bridges the gap between industry expectations and university education, in the Australian context, moving beyond the common discourse in education literature, which is exclusively focused on assessing students’ perceptions about BIM.Bridging the gap: assessing the person-organization fit between BIM education and industry expectations in Australia
Lama Abu Alieh, M. Reza Hosseini, Igor Martek, Wei Wu, Mehrdad Arashpour
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

A lack of suitably qualified Building Information Modelling (BIM) professionals is understood to be a major barrier towards higher uptakes of BIM in the Australian construction industry. In response, Australian universities have tried to integrate the teaching of BIM into construction-related curricula, but with limited success. The acknowledged impediment is the lingering mismatch between what universities offer and what industry actually needs. However, the exact nature of that mismatch has yet to be identified. This study addresses that knowledge gap. It assesses both the current status of BIM competencies among university graduates and explores how BIM education at Australian universities may be improved to deliver BIM work readiness, as required by the industry.

This paper employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing 17 semi-structured interviews with experts in the Australian BIM industry. The Person-Organization (PO) fit theory, which emphasizes the congruence between individual and organizational characteristics, was utilized as a theoretical framework to examine the compatibility between “demand” and “ability” perspectives. The resulting data were analysed using this theoretical framework to gain insights into the PO fit perspectives in relation to BIM industry practices.

Findings reveal that graduates are generally competent regarding the use of BIM software. However, employers require much more than software skills, and expect recruits to have the capability to implement BIM as a process according to information management standards. Specifically, graduates are significantly deficient in matters of BIM protocols, collaboration and coordination, information workflows as well as completion and handover procedures.

This study is the first of its kind that bridges the gap between industry expectations and university education, in the Australian context, moving beyond the common discourse in education literature, which is exclusively focused on assessing students’ perceptions about BIM.

]]>
Bridging the gap: assessing the person-organization fit between BIM education and industry expectations in Australia10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0366Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-25© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedLama Abu AliehM. Reza HosseiniIgor MartekWei WuMehrdad ArashpourEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2510.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0366https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0366/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A framework for evaluating campus facility management performance in light of project critical success factors using a multidimensional fuzzy logic approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0369/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper aims to present the development of a holistic campus facility management (CFM) performance assessment framework that incorporates a fuzzy logic approach and integrates a comprehensive set of key factors for successful management of campus facilities. The devised framework aims to cater to the needs of campus facilities management firms and departments for the purpose of gauging and assessing their performance across different management domains. Through this approach, facility management organizations can detect potential areas of enhancement and adopt preemptive steps to evade issues, foster progress and ensure success. After a comprehensive analysis of the literature, conducting in-depth interviews with industry experts and employing the Delphi technique in two rounds, a total of 45 indicators critical to CFM success were identified and subsequently sorted into seven distinct groups. Through an online questionnaire, 402 subject-matter experts proficiently assessed the significance of the critical success indicators and their groups. A fuzzy logic framework was developed to evaluate and quantify a firm's compliance with the critical success indicators and groups of indicators. The framework was subsequently weighted using computations of the relative importance index (RII) based on the responses received from the questionnaire participants. The initial section of the framework involved a comprehensive analysis of the firm's performance vis-à-vis the indicators, while the latter part sought to evaluate the impact of the indicators groups on the overall firm's performance. The utilization of fuzzy logic has uncovered the significant effects each effective CFM key indicator on indicators groups, as well as the distinct effects of each CFM indicators group on the overall performance of CFM. The results reveal that financial management, communications management, sustainability and environment management and workforce management are the most impactful indicators groups on the CFM performance. This suggests that it is imperative for management to allocate increased attention to these specific areas. This study contributes to the advancement of current knowledge by revealing vital indicators of effective CFM and utilizing them to construct a thorough fuzzy logic framework that can assist in evaluating the effectiveness of CFM firms worldwide. This has the potential to provide crucial assistance to facility management organizations, facility managers and policymakers in their quest for informed decision-making.A framework for evaluating campus facility management performance in light of project critical success factors using a multidimensional fuzzy logic approach
Murat Gunduz, Khalid Naji, Omar Maki
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper aims to present the development of a holistic campus facility management (CFM) performance assessment framework that incorporates a fuzzy logic approach and integrates a comprehensive set of key factors for successful management of campus facilities. The devised framework aims to cater to the needs of campus facilities management firms and departments for the purpose of gauging and assessing their performance across different management domains. Through this approach, facility management organizations can detect potential areas of enhancement and adopt preemptive steps to evade issues, foster progress and ensure success.

After a comprehensive analysis of the literature, conducting in-depth interviews with industry experts and employing the Delphi technique in two rounds, a total of 45 indicators critical to CFM success were identified and subsequently sorted into seven distinct groups. Through an online questionnaire, 402 subject-matter experts proficiently assessed the significance of the critical success indicators and their groups. A fuzzy logic framework was developed to evaluate and quantify a firm's compliance with the critical success indicators and groups of indicators. The framework was subsequently weighted using computations of the relative importance index (RII) based on the responses received from the questionnaire participants. The initial section of the framework involved a comprehensive analysis of the firm's performance vis-à-vis the indicators, while the latter part sought to evaluate the impact of the indicators groups on the overall firm's performance.

The utilization of fuzzy logic has uncovered the significant effects each effective CFM key indicator on indicators groups, as well as the distinct effects of each CFM indicators group on the overall performance of CFM. The results reveal that financial management, communications management, sustainability and environment management and workforce management are the most impactful indicators groups on the CFM performance. This suggests that it is imperative for management to allocate increased attention to these specific areas.

This study contributes to the advancement of current knowledge by revealing vital indicators of effective CFM and utilizing them to construct a thorough fuzzy logic framework that can assist in evaluating the effectiveness of CFM firms worldwide. This has the potential to provide crucial assistance to facility management organizations, facility managers and policymakers in their quest for informed decision-making.

]]>
A framework for evaluating campus facility management performance in light of project critical success factors using a multidimensional fuzzy logic approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0369Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMurat GunduzKhalid NajiOmar MakiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-2710.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0369https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0369/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
An optimization model for just-in-time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly timehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0372/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough extensive research has been conducted on precast production, irregular component loading constraints have received little attention, resulting in limitations for transportation cost optimization. Traditional irregular component loading methods are based on past performance, which frequently wastes vehicle space. Additionally, real-time road conditions, precast component assembly times, and delivery vehicle waiting times due to equipment constraints at the construction site affect transportation time and overall transportation costs. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an optimization model for Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. In order to propose a JIT (just-in-time) delivery optimization model, the effects of the sizes of irregular precast components, the assembly time, and the loading methods are considered in the 3D loading constraint model. In addition, for JIT delivery, incorporating real-time road conditions in the transportation process is essential to mitigate delays in the delivery of precast components. The 3D precast component loading problem is solved by using a hybrid genetic algorithm which mixes the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm. A real case study was used to validate the JIT delivery optimization model. The results indicated this study contributes to the optimization of strategies for loading irregular precast components and the reduction of transportation costs by 5.38%. This study establishes a JIT delivery optimization model with the aim of reducing transportation costs by considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. The irregular precast component is simplified into 3D bounding box and loaded with three-space division heuristic packing algorithm. In addition, the hybrid algorithm mixing the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm is to solve the 3D container loading problem, which provides both global search capability and the ability to perform local searching. The JIT delivery optimization model can provide decision-makers with a more comprehensive and economical strategy for loading and transporting irregular precast components.An optimization model for just-in-time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time
Wenqi Mao, Kexin Ran, Ting-Kwei Wang, Anyuan Yu, Hongyue Lv, Jieh-Haur Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although extensive research has been conducted on precast production, irregular component loading constraints have received little attention, resulting in limitations for transportation cost optimization. Traditional irregular component loading methods are based on past performance, which frequently wastes vehicle space. Additionally, real-time road conditions, precast component assembly times, and delivery vehicle waiting times due to equipment constraints at the construction site affect transportation time and overall transportation costs. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an optimization model for Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time.

In order to propose a JIT (just-in-time) delivery optimization model, the effects of the sizes of irregular precast components, the assembly time, and the loading methods are considered in the 3D loading constraint model. In addition, for JIT delivery, incorporating real-time road conditions in the transportation process is essential to mitigate delays in the delivery of precast components. The 3D precast component loading problem is solved by using a hybrid genetic algorithm which mixes the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm.

A real case study was used to validate the JIT delivery optimization model. The results indicated this study contributes to the optimization of strategies for loading irregular precast components and the reduction of transportation costs by 5.38%.

This study establishes a JIT delivery optimization model with the aim of reducing transportation costs by considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time. The irregular precast component is simplified into 3D bounding box and loaded with three-space division heuristic packing algorithm. In addition, the hybrid algorithm mixing the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm is to solve the 3D container loading problem, which provides both global search capability and the ability to perform local searching. The JIT delivery optimization model can provide decision-makers with a more comprehensive and economical strategy for loading and transporting irregular precast components.

]]>
An optimization model for just-in-time (JIT) delivery of precast components considering 3D loading constraints, real-time road conditions and assembly time10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0372Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-13© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedWenqi MaoKexin RanTing-Kwei WangAnyuan YuHongyue LvJieh-Haur ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1310.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0372https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0372/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
To what extent can smart contracts replace traditional contracts in construction project?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0379/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe smart contract provides an opportunity to improve existing contract management practices in the construction projects by replacing traditional contracts. However, translating the contracts into computer languages is considered a major challenge which has not been investigated. Thus, it is necessary to: (1) identify the obstructing clauses in real-world contracts; and (2) analyze the replacement's technical and economic feasibility. This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned objectives. This study identified the flexibility clauses of traditional contracts and their corresponding functions through inductive content analysis with representative standard contracts as materials. Through a speculative analysis in accordance to design science paradigm and new institutional economics, the economic and technical feasibility of existing approaches, including enumeration method, fuzzy algorithm, rough sets theory, machine learning and artificial intelligence, to transform respective clauses (functions) into executable codes are analyzed. The clauses of semantic flexibility and structural flexibility are identified from the contracts. The transformation of semantic flexibility is economically and/or technically infeasible with existing methods and materials. But with more data as materials and methods of rough sets or machine learning, the transformation can be feasible. The transformation of structural flexibility is technically possible however economically unacceptable. Given smart contracts' inability to provide the required flexibility for construction projects, smart contracts will be more effective in less relational contracts. For construction contracts, the combination of smart contracts and traditional contracts is recommended. In the long run, with the sharing or trading of data in the industry level and the integration of machine learning or artificial intelligence reducing relevant costs, the automation of contract management can be achieved. This study contributes to the understanding of the smart contract's limitations in industry scenarios and its role in construction project management.To what extent can smart contracts replace traditional contracts in construction project?
Haizhe Yu, Xiaopeng Deng, Na Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The smart contract provides an opportunity to improve existing contract management practices in the construction projects by replacing traditional contracts. However, translating the contracts into computer languages is considered a major challenge which has not been investigated. Thus, it is necessary to: (1) identify the obstructing clauses in real-world contracts; and (2) analyze the replacement's technical and economic feasibility. This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned objectives.

This study identified the flexibility clauses of traditional contracts and their corresponding functions through inductive content analysis with representative standard contracts as materials. Through a speculative analysis in accordance to design science paradigm and new institutional economics, the economic and technical feasibility of existing approaches, including enumeration method, fuzzy algorithm, rough sets theory, machine learning and artificial intelligence, to transform respective clauses (functions) into executable codes are analyzed.

The clauses of semantic flexibility and structural flexibility are identified from the contracts. The transformation of semantic flexibility is economically and/or technically infeasible with existing methods and materials. But with more data as materials and methods of rough sets or machine learning, the transformation can be feasible. The transformation of structural flexibility is technically possible however economically unacceptable.

Given smart contracts' inability to provide the required flexibility for construction projects, smart contracts will be more effective in less relational contracts. For construction contracts, the combination of smart contracts and traditional contracts is recommended. In the long run, with the sharing or trading of data in the industry level and the integration of machine learning or artificial intelligence reducing relevant costs, the automation of contract management can be achieved.

This study contributes to the understanding of the smart contract's limitations in industry scenarios and its role in construction project management.

]]>
To what extent can smart contracts replace traditional contracts in construction project?10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0379Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-09© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHaizhe YuXiaopeng DengNa ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-0910.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0379https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0379/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of person-environment fit on construction project managers' turnover intention: a moderated mediation modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0384/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestHigh turnover of project managers is a common phenomenon in the construction industry, which has a negative impact on the productivity and performance of construction firms. The study investigates the mechanisms of person-environment fit on turnover intention of construction project managers and the mediating role of job embeddedness. The authors also tested the moderating role of perceived organizational support in the influence of job embeddedness on turnover intention. The data were collected from managers of 62 construction and infrastructure projects in Wuhan. Based on person-environment fit theory, job embeddedness theory and social exchange theory (SET), the authors employ structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the hypotheses. Results show that if project managers are not well-fitted with the environment of organizations, it reduces their embeddedness in jobs, which in consequence makes them more inclined to leave. Job embeddedness mediates the relationship between person-environment fit and turnover intention. In addition, the authors validated the moderating effect of perceived organizational support, showing that the higher the employee's job embeddedness, the lower the employee's turnover intention. Construction companies can retain project managers and stabilize management teams through effective management strategies, thus effectively reducing the separation costs of construction companies.Impact of person-environment fit on construction project managers' turnover intention: a moderated mediation model
Shan Jiang, Jintao Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

High turnover of project managers is a common phenomenon in the construction industry, which has a negative impact on the productivity and performance of construction firms. The study investigates the mechanisms of person-environment fit on turnover intention of construction project managers and the mediating role of job embeddedness. The authors also tested the moderating role of perceived organizational support in the influence of job embeddedness on turnover intention.

The data were collected from managers of 62 construction and infrastructure projects in Wuhan. Based on person-environment fit theory, job embeddedness theory and social exchange theory (SET), the authors employ structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the hypotheses.

Results show that if project managers are not well-fitted with the environment of organizations, it reduces their embeddedness in jobs, which in consequence makes them more inclined to leave. Job embeddedness mediates the relationship between person-environment fit and turnover intention. In addition, the authors validated the moderating effect of perceived organizational support, showing that the higher the employee's job embeddedness, the lower the employee's turnover intention.

Construction companies can retain project managers and stabilize management teams through effective management strategies, thus effectively reducing the separation costs of construction companies.

]]>
Impact of person-environment fit on construction project managers' turnover intention: a moderated mediation model10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0384Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedShan JiangJintao LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2610.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0384https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0384/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Managing the high capital cost of prefabricated construction through stakeholder collaboration: a two-mode network analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0392/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrefabricated construction (PC) can benefit construction industry due to its high efficiency, energy saving, consumption reduction and safety. However, the high capital cost is a critical challenge hindering its development in China. The collaboration of PC stakeholders is conducive to improving cost management efficiency and optimizing resource allocation which has been ignored in previous studies. Therefore, this study aims to explore the collaboration paths of stakeholders in the process of solving critical cost influencing factors (CIFs) of PC to reduce costs. Firstly, 25 CIFs and five main stakeholders that affect PC capital cost were identified through literature research and expert interviews. Then, questionnaires were used to investigate the relationship between stakeholders and CIFs from the perspectives of three stakeholder attributes of proximity, attitude and power, respectively. Finally, based on the survey data, three stakeholder-CIF networks from three attributes perspective and a comprehensive network were constructed and used for subsequent social network analysis. (1) Stakeholders mainly show willingness and potential to collaborate on organization and management factors; (2) More stakeholders pay attention to incentive policies and the setting of prefabrication rates and assembly rates, while all stakeholders have the right to facilitate information and resource sharing in the PC supply chain; (3) The comprehensive network shows a core-periphery structure. As core stakeholders, contractor, designer and manufacturer are more likely to actively manage the 14 core CIFs. This paper innovatively combined stakeholder and cost management in PC, and used two-mode network based on three stakeholder perspectives to reveal the collaboration potential and motivation of stakeholders in PC cost management. The findings not only provide guidance for stakeholders to find potential partners and optimize resource allocation in solving specific cost issues, but also facilitate stakeholders' sustainable collaboration to achieve PC's cost performance.Managing the high capital cost of prefabricated construction through stakeholder collaboration: a two-mode network analysis
Youxi Zhang, Yu Liu, Rui Yu, Jian Zuo, Na Dong
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Prefabricated construction (PC) can benefit construction industry due to its high efficiency, energy saving, consumption reduction and safety. However, the high capital cost is a critical challenge hindering its development in China. The collaboration of PC stakeholders is conducive to improving cost management efficiency and optimizing resource allocation which has been ignored in previous studies. Therefore, this study aims to explore the collaboration paths of stakeholders in the process of solving critical cost influencing factors (CIFs) of PC to reduce costs.

Firstly, 25 CIFs and five main stakeholders that affect PC capital cost were identified through literature research and expert interviews. Then, questionnaires were used to investigate the relationship between stakeholders and CIFs from the perspectives of three stakeholder attributes of proximity, attitude and power, respectively. Finally, based on the survey data, three stakeholder-CIF networks from three attributes perspective and a comprehensive network were constructed and used for subsequent social network analysis.

(1) Stakeholders mainly show willingness and potential to collaborate on organization and management factors; (2) More stakeholders pay attention to incentive policies and the setting of prefabrication rates and assembly rates, while all stakeholders have the right to facilitate information and resource sharing in the PC supply chain; (3) The comprehensive network shows a core-periphery structure. As core stakeholders, contractor, designer and manufacturer are more likely to actively manage the 14 core CIFs.

This paper innovatively combined stakeholder and cost management in PC, and used two-mode network based on three stakeholder perspectives to reveal the collaboration potential and motivation of stakeholders in PC cost management. The findings not only provide guidance for stakeholders to find potential partners and optimize resource allocation in solving specific cost issues, but also facilitate stakeholders' sustainable collaboration to achieve PC's cost performance.

]]>
Managing the high capital cost of prefabricated construction through stakeholder collaboration: a two-mode network analysis10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0392Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-01© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYouxi ZhangYu LiuRui YuJian ZuoNa DongEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-0110.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0392https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0392/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Construction group conflict under resource overlap: a game theory approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0393/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe replenishment of construction materials heavily relies on the functioning of heavy machinery, which often leads to confusion and negotiations among construction work groups regarding the allocation rights of these materials. When multiple groups require the same construction materials, they often struggle to determine whether the delivered materials are intended for their own use or if they have encroached upon supplies designated for others. Such uncertainties and negotiations frequently result in delays in construction progress and have the potential to escalate into conflicts. To minimize misunderstandings among work groups and mitigate the risk of severe safety consequences, it is crucial to understand the decision-making processes involved in the interaction between work groups. This paper adopts a game theory approach to examine the interactions among work groups from a safety perspective. Quantum response equilibrium (QRE), as a specialized form of game with incomplete information, is assumed to govern the behavior of work groups in this study. By conducting a questionnaire survey, interactive scenarios were simulated. A resource overlap scenario for high-altitude construction is established, with the key factors being the importance of construction materials, the time required to supplement materials, whether managers are present and the climate within the groups. The model parameters were estimated using the expectation–maximization algorithm. Additionally, individual traits and safety awareness are surveyed in the questionnaire, further explaining the results of the game. The findings indicate that the likelihood of conflicts between work groups under resource overlap can be quantified. The radical behavior of construction work groups exhibits a positive correlation with the importance of construction materials and the time required for material replenishment. Furthermore, the presence of a safety climate and the oversight of management personnel play a significant role in maintaining the composure of construction work groups. The expanded results of the questionnaire demonstrate that there is considerable room for improvement in workers' safety awareness, and management approaches can be further enhanced to prevent unsafe behaviors from occurring. A novel game theory model was developed to evaluate the behavior of construction groups in situations of resource overlap. This model offers practical suggestions to improve safety performance and efficiency in construction projects.Construction group conflict under resource overlap: a game theory approach
Junlong Peng, Qi Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The replenishment of construction materials heavily relies on the functioning of heavy machinery, which often leads to confusion and negotiations among construction work groups regarding the allocation rights of these materials. When multiple groups require the same construction materials, they often struggle to determine whether the delivered materials are intended for their own use or if they have encroached upon supplies designated for others. Such uncertainties and negotiations frequently result in delays in construction progress and have the potential to escalate into conflicts. To minimize misunderstandings among work groups and mitigate the risk of severe safety consequences, it is crucial to understand the decision-making processes involved in the interaction between work groups.

This paper adopts a game theory approach to examine the interactions among work groups from a safety perspective. Quantum response equilibrium (QRE), as a specialized form of game with incomplete information, is assumed to govern the behavior of work groups in this study. By conducting a questionnaire survey, interactive scenarios were simulated. A resource overlap scenario for high-altitude construction is established, with the key factors being the importance of construction materials, the time required to supplement materials, whether managers are present and the climate within the groups. The model parameters were estimated using the expectation–maximization algorithm. Additionally, individual traits and safety awareness are surveyed in the questionnaire, further explaining the results of the game.

The findings indicate that the likelihood of conflicts between work groups under resource overlap can be quantified. The radical behavior of construction work groups exhibits a positive correlation with the importance of construction materials and the time required for material replenishment. Furthermore, the presence of a safety climate and the oversight of management personnel play a significant role in maintaining the composure of construction work groups. The expanded results of the questionnaire demonstrate that there is considerable room for improvement in workers' safety awareness, and management approaches can be further enhanced to prevent unsafe behaviors from occurring.

A novel game theory model was developed to evaluate the behavior of construction groups in situations of resource overlap. This model offers practical suggestions to improve safety performance and efficiency in construction projects.

]]>
Construction group conflict under resource overlap: a game theory approach10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0393Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJunlong PengQi ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-1110.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0393https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0393/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barriers to adoption of work–life balance practices amongst construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria: an exploratory factor analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0407/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe current study seeks to investigate and determine the principal barriers to the adoption of work–life balance (WLB) practices amongst construction companies operating in the developing countries using Lagos, Nigeria as a case study. This study adopts a survey research technique. Snowball sampling technique was adopted to identify the target respondents for the administration of questionnaire. A total of 156 questionnaires were distributed and a response rate of 66% (103 questionnaires were completely filled and returned) was attained. Data elicited were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results from the exploratory factors analysis show that the principal barriers to the adoption of WLB practices amongst construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria are categorised into four components: nature of construction job and limited evidence on impact of WLB, support, awareness and culture, lack of involvement of management staff and organisational factors. This study contributed to more effective WLB studies by highlighting the barriers to the adoption of WLB practices in the construction sector. An understanding of these barriers can aid policy makers and management personnel in construction organisations as well as facilitate development of strategies required to reduce the barriers to WLB practices in the construction sector.Barriers to adoption of work–life balance practices amongst construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria: an exploratory factor analysis
Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi, Patricia Omega Kukoyi, Amos Okemukoko Lawani, Anthony Ogochukwu Onokwai
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The current study seeks to investigate and determine the principal barriers to the adoption of work–life balance (WLB) practices amongst construction companies operating in the developing countries using Lagos, Nigeria as a case study.

This study adopts a survey research technique. Snowball sampling technique was adopted to identify the target respondents for the administration of questionnaire. A total of 156 questionnaires were distributed and a response rate of 66% (103 questionnaires were completely filled and returned) was attained. Data elicited were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

The results from the exploratory factors analysis show that the principal barriers to the adoption of WLB practices amongst construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria are categorised into four components: nature of construction job and limited evidence on impact of WLB, support, awareness and culture, lack of involvement of management staff and organisational factors.

This study contributed to more effective WLB studies by highlighting the barriers to the adoption of WLB practices in the construction sector. An understanding of these barriers can aid policy makers and management personnel in construction organisations as well as facilitate development of strategies required to reduce the barriers to WLB practices in the construction sector.

]]>
Barriers to adoption of work–life balance practices amongst construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria: an exploratory factor analysis10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0407Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedInnocent Chigozie OsuizugboOlalekan Shamsideen OshodiPatricia Omega KukoyiAmos Okemukoko LawaniAnthony Ogochukwu OnokwaiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-2010.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0407https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0407/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Transitioning young people into employment in the Australian construction industry: the trust-building role of project-based intermediarieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0421/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction is one of Australia’s largest employers of young people and the industry is facing a major labor shortage, with young people expected to account for much of the shortfall. Surprisingly however, there been little research into the pathways for young people into construction employment. The aim of this paper is to address this gap in research by exploring whether project-based intermediaries can support the development of disadvantaged young people’s trust in the often-problematic systems which are meant to help transition them into employment in construction. Employing an in-depth case study approach, this research mobilizes theories of personalized and generalized trust to report the results of interviews with 15 sectoral leaders; focus groups with 12 young people working in construction; and interviews with 11 young people being transitioned into construction employment through a unique project-based intermediary developed by a major Australian construction company as part of its social procurement requirements. Findings show that project-based intermediaries can play an important trust-building role in transitioning disadvantaged young people into work in construction. They do this by bridging a young person’s strong social ties (family and friendship) and weak social ties (with government and construction industry organizations), both of which can be problematic when used in isolation to seek employment in construction. By performing a crucial bridging role between a young person’s individual self-interest in acting alone to find work and their collective interest in being part of a collaborative group, the project-based intermediary creates a new form of linking social capital, enabling social procurement policies which target young people to work while also addressing wider systemic problems in Australia’s employment systems. This research addresses the lack of employment research into young people in construction and the paucity of theory in social procurement research more broadly. It takes an original approach in aligning theories related to a duality of personalized trust and generalized trust seen against the duality of individual intentionality and agency (self-focused) and shared intentionality and agency (group-focused). By doing so it provides new conceptual and practical insights into the important role that construction project-based intermediaries like the one studied here can play in providing innovative cross-sector and collaborative solutions to the world’s growing youth unemployment crisis.Transitioning young people into employment in the Australian construction industry: the trust-building role of project-based intermediaries
Geoff Woolcott, Martin Loosemore, Robyn Keast, Ariella Meltzer, Suhair Alkilani
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction is one of Australia’s largest employers of young people and the industry is facing a major labor shortage, with young people expected to account for much of the shortfall. Surprisingly however, there been little research into the pathways for young people into construction employment. The aim of this paper is to address this gap in research by exploring whether project-based intermediaries can support the development of disadvantaged young people’s trust in the often-problematic systems which are meant to help transition them into employment in construction.

Employing an in-depth case study approach, this research mobilizes theories of personalized and generalized trust to report the results of interviews with 15 sectoral leaders; focus groups with 12 young people working in construction; and interviews with 11 young people being transitioned into construction employment through a unique project-based intermediary developed by a major Australian construction company as part of its social procurement requirements.

Findings show that project-based intermediaries can play an important trust-building role in transitioning disadvantaged young people into work in construction. They do this by bridging a young person’s strong social ties (family and friendship) and weak social ties (with government and construction industry organizations), both of which can be problematic when used in isolation to seek employment in construction. By performing a crucial bridging role between a young person’s individual self-interest in acting alone to find work and their collective interest in being part of a collaborative group, the project-based intermediary creates a new form of linking social capital, enabling social procurement policies which target young people to work while also addressing wider systemic problems in Australia’s employment systems.

This research addresses the lack of employment research into young people in construction and the paucity of theory in social procurement research more broadly. It takes an original approach in aligning theories related to a duality of personalized trust and generalized trust seen against the duality of individual intentionality and agency (self-focused) and shared intentionality and agency (group-focused). By doing so it provides new conceptual and practical insights into the important role that construction project-based intermediaries like the one studied here can play in providing innovative cross-sector and collaborative solutions to the world’s growing youth unemployment crisis.

]]>
Transitioning young people into employment in the Australian construction industry: the trust-building role of project-based intermediaries10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0421Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedGeoff WoolcottMartin LoosemoreRobyn KeastAriella MeltzerSuhair AlkilaniEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-0410.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0421https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-04-2023-0421/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Facilitating the building commissioning process using building information modeling: an action-research projecthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0394/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe building commissioning (BCx) phase is a critical stage in a building's lifecycle. It is also a complex process that involves a large number of actors and activities. While the use of building information modeling (BIM) in the commissioning phase of building equipment and systems could be beneficial, few studies have investigated the processes behind its implementation. The research presented in this paper aims to investigate the implementation of BIM for the commissioning phase within a general contracting company through action-research. Through direct involvement with the research partner, a large general contractor, a diagnosis on the current limitations of the commissioning process was conducted. An action plan to implement BIM for commissioning was developed and implemented in two pilot projects. Evaluation was performed through on-site observations and informal discussions with field staff. Learning was specified through the development of a formal protocol for BIM-enabled BCx. This action-research project helped the partner organization identify the challenges and a way forward to formalize its BIM-enabled BCx process. The action plan aimed at countering the lack of knowledge about the status of equipment and system commissioning as well as the lack of standardization. The research team co-developed and tested a formal protocol, including BIM-enabled processes and technologies to address these observed problems. A complete implementation ecosystem was structured and deployed. Preliminary feedback indicated that improvements were obtained using a BIM-enabled approach over a traditional approach. While past studies have investigated the BCx process, this study identified current challenges considering recent advances in BIM and focused on a large general contractor. This work provides an in-depth account of a large general contractor attempting to streamline its BCx process. The results of the study could help guide practitioners in implementing more streamlined BIM-enabled BCx processes.Facilitating the building commissioning process using building information modeling: an action-research project
Charles Frommweiler, Erik Poirier
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The building commissioning (BCx) phase is a critical stage in a building's lifecycle. It is also a complex process that involves a large number of actors and activities. While the use of building information modeling (BIM) in the commissioning phase of building equipment and systems could be beneficial, few studies have investigated the processes behind its implementation. The research presented in this paper aims to investigate the implementation of BIM for the commissioning phase within a general contracting company through action-research.

Through direct involvement with the research partner, a large general contractor, a diagnosis on the current limitations of the commissioning process was conducted. An action plan to implement BIM for commissioning was developed and implemented in two pilot projects. Evaluation was performed through on-site observations and informal discussions with field staff. Learning was specified through the development of a formal protocol for BIM-enabled BCx.

This action-research project helped the partner organization identify the challenges and a way forward to formalize its BIM-enabled BCx process. The action plan aimed at countering the lack of knowledge about the status of equipment and system commissioning as well as the lack of standardization. The research team co-developed and tested a formal protocol, including BIM-enabled processes and technologies to address these observed problems. A complete implementation ecosystem was structured and deployed. Preliminary feedback indicated that improvements were obtained using a BIM-enabled approach over a traditional approach.

While past studies have investigated the BCx process, this study identified current challenges considering recent advances in BIM and focused on a large general contractor. This work provides an in-depth account of a large general contractor attempting to streamline its BCx process. The results of the study could help guide practitioners in implementing more streamlined BIM-enabled BCx processes.

]]>
Facilitating the building commissioning process using building information modeling: an action-research project10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0394Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedCharles FrommweilerErik PoirierEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-1110.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0394https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0394/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of asymmetric trust on construction project management performance: the mediating role of knowledge sharinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0400/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to explore the impact of asymmetric trust on construction project management performance in China's construction industry. Moreover, the authors explore the mediating role of two types of knowledge sharing (explicit knowledge sharing and tacit knowledge sharing) in explaining the association between asymmetric trust and project management performance. A theoretical model based on the research hypotheses proposed in this study was developed and a questionnaire survey was conducted with 271 professionals. The data collected was analyzed by the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. The results of this study indicate that there is a significant and negative association between asymmetric trust and project management performance. Moreover, two types of knowledge sharing (explicit knowledge sharing and tacit knowledge sharing) have different degrees of impact on improving project management performance. In addition, tacit knowledge sharing is a mediator between asymmetric trust and project management performance. The data used in this study is from Chinese scenarios, so the research conclusions and application effects based on this are bound to have certain regional limitations. Besides, there are many factors that affect project management performance improving, and the relationships among them are so complex. The theoretical model proposed in this study may not be fully considered. Therefore, follow-up researchers can consider bringing more suitable variables into their researches, so that the theoretical researches can be more in line with the actual project management practice, and the specific mechanism for improving project management performance can be explained more deeply. This research's value is as follows: Firstly, this paper contributes to the trust and relational governance literature by expanding the research perspective of mutual trust to asymmetric trust. Specially, this research designs a measurement scale for asymmetric trust and then reveals the impact mechanism of it on project management performance, which will certainly promote research paradigm change of trust. Secondly, this research is beneficial to knowledge sharing literature in the construction management field by expanding the research scope of knowledge sharing from a cross-organizational perspective.Impact of asymmetric trust on construction project management performance: the mediating role of knowledge sharing
Xiaolin Li, Huimin Li, Ruirui Zhang, Yilin Yin, Shaonan Sun, Juan Bai, Ruihua Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of asymmetric trust on construction project management performance in China's construction industry. Moreover, the authors explore the mediating role of two types of knowledge sharing (explicit knowledge sharing and tacit knowledge sharing) in explaining the association between asymmetric trust and project management performance.

A theoretical model based on the research hypotheses proposed in this study was developed and a questionnaire survey was conducted with 271 professionals. The data collected was analyzed by the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique.

The results of this study indicate that there is a significant and negative association between asymmetric trust and project management performance. Moreover, two types of knowledge sharing (explicit knowledge sharing and tacit knowledge sharing) have different degrees of impact on improving project management performance. In addition, tacit knowledge sharing is a mediator between asymmetric trust and project management performance.

The data used in this study is from Chinese scenarios, so the research conclusions and application effects based on this are bound to have certain regional limitations. Besides, there are many factors that affect project management performance improving, and the relationships among them are so complex. The theoretical model proposed in this study may not be fully considered. Therefore, follow-up researchers can consider bringing more suitable variables into their researches, so that the theoretical researches can be more in line with the actual project management practice, and the specific mechanism for improving project management performance can be explained more deeply.

This research's value is as follows: Firstly, this paper contributes to the trust and relational governance literature by expanding the research perspective of mutual trust to asymmetric trust. Specially, this research designs a measurement scale for asymmetric trust and then reveals the impact mechanism of it on project management performance, which will certainly promote research paradigm change of trust. Secondly, this research is beneficial to knowledge sharing literature in the construction management field by expanding the research scope of knowledge sharing from a cross-organizational perspective.

]]>
Impact of asymmetric trust on construction project management performance: the mediating role of knowledge sharing10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0400Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaolin LiHuimin LiRuirui ZhangYilin YinShaonan SunJuan BaiRuihua LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1610.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0400https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0400/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A novel approach for measuring the accuracy of front end engineering designhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0418/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAssessing front end engineering design (FEED) accuracy is significant for project owners because it can support informed decision-making, including confidence in cost and schedule predictions. A framework to measure FEED accuracy does not exist in the literature or in practice, not does systematic data directly linking FEED accuracy to project performance. This paper aims to focus first on gauging and quantifying FEED accuracy, and second on measuring its impact on project performance in terms of cost change, schedule change, change performance, financial performance and customer satisfaction. A novel measurement scheme was developed for FEED accuracy as a comprehensive assessment of factors related to the project leadership and execution teams, management processes and resources; to assess the environment surrounding FEED. The development of this framework built on a literature review and focus groups, and used the research charrettes methodology, guided by a research team of 20 industry professionals and input from 48 practitioners representing 31 organizations. Data were collected from 33 large industrial projects representing over $8.8 billion of installed cost, allowing for a statistical analysis of the framework's impact on performance. This paper describes: (1) twenty-seven critical FEED accuracy factors; (2) an objective and scalable method to measure FEED accuracy; and (3) data showing that projects with high FEED accuracy outperformed projects with low FEED accuracy by 20 percent in terms of cost growth in relation to their approved budgets. FEED accuracy is defined as the degree of confidence in the measured level of maturity of the FEED deliverables to serve as a basis of decision at the end of detailed scope, prior to detailed design. Assessing FEED accuracy is significant for project owners because it can support informed decision-making, including confidence in cost and schedule predictions. FEED accuracy has not been assessed before, and it turned out to have considerable project performance implications. The new framework presented in this paper is the first of its kind, it has been tested rigorously, and it contributes to both the literature body of knowledge as well as to practice. As one industry leader recently stated, “it not only helped to assess the quality and adequacy of the technical documentation required, but also provided an opportunity to check the organization's readiness before making a capital investment decision.”A novel approach for measuring the accuracy of front end engineering design
G. Edward Gibson, Mounir El Asmar, Abdulrahman Yussef, David Ramsey
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Assessing front end engineering design (FEED) accuracy is significant for project owners because it can support informed decision-making, including confidence in cost and schedule predictions. A framework to measure FEED accuracy does not exist in the literature or in practice, not does systematic data directly linking FEED accuracy to project performance. This paper aims to focus first on gauging and quantifying FEED accuracy, and second on measuring its impact on project performance in terms of cost change, schedule change, change performance, financial performance and customer satisfaction.

A novel measurement scheme was developed for FEED accuracy as a comprehensive assessment of factors related to the project leadership and execution teams, management processes and resources; to assess the environment surrounding FEED. The development of this framework built on a literature review and focus groups, and used the research charrettes methodology, guided by a research team of 20 industry professionals and input from 48 practitioners representing 31 organizations. Data were collected from 33 large industrial projects representing over $8.8 billion of installed cost, allowing for a statistical analysis of the framework's impact on performance.

This paper describes: (1) twenty-seven critical FEED accuracy factors; (2) an objective and scalable method to measure FEED accuracy; and (3) data showing that projects with high FEED accuracy outperformed projects with low FEED accuracy by 20 percent in terms of cost growth in relation to their approved budgets.

FEED accuracy is defined as the degree of confidence in the measured level of maturity of the FEED deliverables to serve as a basis of decision at the end of detailed scope, prior to detailed design. Assessing FEED accuracy is significant for project owners because it can support informed decision-making, including confidence in cost and schedule predictions.

FEED accuracy has not been assessed before, and it turned out to have considerable project performance implications. The new framework presented in this paper is the first of its kind, it has been tested rigorously, and it contributes to both the literature body of knowledge as well as to practice. As one industry leader recently stated, “it not only helped to assess the quality and adequacy of the technical documentation required, but also provided an opportunity to check the organization's readiness before making a capital investment decision.”

]]>
A novel approach for measuring the accuracy of front end engineering design10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0418Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedG. Edward GibsonMounir El AsmarAbdulrahman YussefDavid RamseyEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-0610.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0418https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0418/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigating the mechanism of developers' willingness to adopt prefabricated housing using an integrated DEMATEL-SD frameworkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0422/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrefabricated construction is an innovative technique for decreasing carbon emissions in the construction industry. However, as the investors of housing projects, a majority of developers are unwilling to adopt prefabricated housing in practice. To promote prefabricated housing, this study aims to develop an integrated framework of fuzzy-decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (fuzzy-DEMATEL) and system dynamics (SD) to understand the underlying influencing mechanism of developers' willingness. Through literature review, a total of 17 influencing factors were identified. Then, the interrelationships among the factors were evaluated by 10 experienced professionals, and the impacts given and received by each factor were further analyzed through fuzzy-DEMATEL. Based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), a SD model was developed to explore the influencing mechanism. The major cause factors were identified, including mandatory implementation policies, economic incentive policies, environmental protection policies, component standardization and developers' economic strength. This group of factors was expected to be given priority attention in the case of limited resources. On the other hand, the results indicated that economic incentive policies and mandatory implementation policies could affect the developers' willingness via perceived usefulness, while the others mainly influenced perceived ease of use. Little research has focused on the interrelationships among the influencing factors of developers' willingness to adopt prefabricated housing. This study contributed to understanding the mechanism of developers' willingness from a systematic view and providing the priority of influencing factors. Several strategies were proposed to improve the practical implementation of prefabricated housing development.Investigating the mechanism of developers' willingness to adopt prefabricated housing using an integrated DEMATEL-SD framework
Zezhou Wu, Kaijie Yang, Zhangmin Wu, Hong Xue, Shenghan Li, Maxwell Fordjour Antwi-Afari
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Prefabricated construction is an innovative technique for decreasing carbon emissions in the construction industry. However, as the investors of housing projects, a majority of developers are unwilling to adopt prefabricated housing in practice. To promote prefabricated housing, this study aims to develop an integrated framework of fuzzy-decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (fuzzy-DEMATEL) and system dynamics (SD) to understand the underlying influencing mechanism of developers' willingness.

Through literature review, a total of 17 influencing factors were identified. Then, the interrelationships among the factors were evaluated by 10 experienced professionals, and the impacts given and received by each factor were further analyzed through fuzzy-DEMATEL. Based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), a SD model was developed to explore the influencing mechanism.

The major cause factors were identified, including mandatory implementation policies, economic incentive policies, environmental protection policies, component standardization and developers' economic strength. This group of factors was expected to be given priority attention in the case of limited resources. On the other hand, the results indicated that economic incentive policies and mandatory implementation policies could affect the developers' willingness via perceived usefulness, while the others mainly influenced perceived ease of use.

Little research has focused on the interrelationships among the influencing factors of developers' willingness to adopt prefabricated housing. This study contributed to understanding the mechanism of developers' willingness from a systematic view and providing the priority of influencing factors. Several strategies were proposed to improve the practical implementation of prefabricated housing development.

]]>
Investigating the mechanism of developers' willingness to adopt prefabricated housing using an integrated DEMATEL-SD framework10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0422Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-10© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedZezhou WuKaijie YangZhangmin WuHong XueShenghan LiMaxwell Fordjour Antwi-AfariEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1010.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0422https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0422/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Identifying the stressors hindering performance in the Indian construction industry: an empirical investigationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0426/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study attempts to analyse and rank the impact of work-related issues arising within the Indian construction industry in the context of the existing pandemic. Furthermore, this is the first attempt to provide strategies to overcome issues among a workforce that is highly contractual in nature and is currently witnessing the uncertainties of the pandemic's aftermath. To the best of the author's knowledge, few studies have highlighted the combined analysis of job insecurity, psychological stress and emotional exhaustion in the Indian construction industry. The “Best Worst Methodology” (BWM) has been used in this study to analyse and rank the key factors that eliminate negative characteristics among contractual construction employees. The BWM, outlined by Rezaei (2015, 2016), is a popular “multi-criteria decision analysis technique” due to its advantage of consistent results and lesser pairwise data requirements. The study identified and ranked the socioeconomic impact of the three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic on construction sector employees in the Indian subcontinent. The results indicate that job insecurity has the most prominent impact, which ultimately produces psychological stress and emotional exhaustion among employees. To achieve the objective of identifying and prioritising the criteria of adverse socioeconomic impacts during the pandemic and outlining plans of action for the construction industry, ten experts (civil engineers/managers) from ten different construction projects were involved in a mixed-method case study, which has never been explored in the Indian construction sector.Identifying the stressors hindering performance in the Indian construction industry: an empirical investigation
Noopur
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study attempts to analyse and rank the impact of work-related issues arising within the Indian construction industry in the context of the existing pandemic. Furthermore, this is the first attempt to provide strategies to overcome issues among a workforce that is highly contractual in nature and is currently witnessing the uncertainties of the pandemic's aftermath. To the best of the author's knowledge, few studies have highlighted the combined analysis of job insecurity, psychological stress and emotional exhaustion in the Indian construction industry.

The “Best Worst Methodology” (BWM) has been used in this study to analyse and rank the key factors that eliminate negative characteristics among contractual construction employees. The BWM, outlined by Rezaei (2015, 2016), is a popular “multi-criteria decision analysis technique” due to its advantage of consistent results and lesser pairwise data requirements.

The study identified and ranked the socioeconomic impact of the three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic on construction sector employees in the Indian subcontinent. The results indicate that job insecurity has the most prominent impact, which ultimately produces psychological stress and emotional exhaustion among employees.

To achieve the objective of identifying and prioritising the criteria of adverse socioeconomic impacts during the pandemic and outlining plans of action for the construction industry, ten experts (civil engineers/managers) from ten different construction projects were involved in a mixed-method case study, which has never been explored in the Indian construction sector.

]]>
Identifying the stressors hindering performance in the Indian construction industry: an empirical investigation10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0426Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited NoopurEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-0810.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0426https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0426/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Communication challenges and blockchain in building energy efficiency retrofits: Croatia casehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0441/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs climate change has become a growing concern, sustainable development has become increasingly important. Emissions reduction is a key step for more efficient energy use. In the last few years, the residential building sector in Croatia has received financial support for multi-dwelling building energy efficiency retrofits (EERs). However, some of these projects encountered difficulties due to information asymmetry between the key participants. This study aims to address the problem from the perspective of the principal-agent theory, which is concerned with information asymmetry and the asymmetry's repercussions. A social network analysis is conducted to reflect the operation and management (OM) details of Croatian multi-dwelling buildings. The key stakeholders of EER are mapped, along with the contractual and communication ties between them. Using the Gephi software, relationship data are visually represented and statistically evaluated. The analysis indicated two different clusters or groups of stakeholders in EERs in Croatia and enabled the mapping of key relationships between stakeholders. The findings stress the importance of the key relationship between owner representatives (ORs) and property managers (PMs). The contribution of this study is the development of framework for blockchain implementation in EERs, which can be adapted for use in different markets and/or projects. Blockchain is proposed for minimization of information asymmetry between different stakeholders. Blockchain enables communication and cooperation during project development and enhances trust among stakeholders.Communication challenges and blockchain in building energy efficiency retrofits: Croatia case
Anita Cerić, Ivona Ivić
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As climate change has become a growing concern, sustainable development has become increasingly important. Emissions reduction is a key step for more efficient energy use. In the last few years, the residential building sector in Croatia has received financial support for multi-dwelling building energy efficiency retrofits (EERs). However, some of these projects encountered difficulties due to information asymmetry between the key participants. This study aims to address the problem from the perspective of the principal-agent theory, which is concerned with information asymmetry and the asymmetry's repercussions.

A social network analysis is conducted to reflect the operation and management (OM) details of Croatian multi-dwelling buildings. The key stakeholders of EER are mapped, along with the contractual and communication ties between them. Using the Gephi software, relationship data are visually represented and statistically evaluated.

The analysis indicated two different clusters or groups of stakeholders in EERs in Croatia and enabled the mapping of key relationships between stakeholders. The findings stress the importance of the key relationship between owner representatives (ORs) and property managers (PMs).

The contribution of this study is the development of framework for blockchain implementation in EERs, which can be adapted for use in different markets and/or projects. Blockchain is proposed for minimization of information asymmetry between different stakeholders. Blockchain enables communication and cooperation during project development and enhances trust among stakeholders.

]]>
Communication challenges and blockchain in building energy efficiency retrofits: Croatia case10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0441Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAnita CerićIvona IvićEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1310.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0441https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0441/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for infrastructure development: a comparative study of national quality award projects in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0442/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs the foundation of social and economic development, infrastructure development projects are characterized by large initial investment, high technical requirements and thus generally delivered through complex contractor–subcontractor collaboration chains. This study aims to characterize the complexity of collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for infrastructure development through comparing the structural characteristics and the formation mechanisms of contractor–subcontractor collaborative networks for the following two different types of infrastructure: public works (PWCN) owned and operated by government agencies, and public utilities (PUCN) owned and operated by nongovernment agencies. Based on the method of stochastic actor-oriented models and the longitudinal dataset of National Quality Award Projects in China during 2001–2020, this study compares how the structural characteristics of project-based collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for the two types of projects are different and how related micro-mechanisms, including both structure-based endogenous network effects and attribute-based exogenous homophily effects (institutional, organizational and geographical homophily), collectively underpin the formation of the networks. The empirical results provide evidence that while the two networks are both characterized by relatively low levels of network density, PWCN is more globally connected around a minority of superconnected contractors as compared with PUCN. The results further reveal that compared with PUCN, the formation of PWCN is more significantly related to the structure-based anti in-isolates effect, suggesting that PWCN is more open for new entrant subcontractors. With regard to the attribute-based homophily effects, the results provide evidence that while both significantly and positively related to the effects of organizational (same company group) and geographical homophily (same location), the formation of PWCN and PUCN is oppositely driven by the institutional homophily effect (same ownership type). As an exploratory effort of using network perspective to investigate the formation mechanisms of contractor–subcontractor relationships in the infrastructure development domain, this study contributes to a network and self-organizing system view of how contractors select subcontractors in different types of infrastructure projects. The study also provides insights into how contractor–subcontractor collaborative relationships can be better manipulated to promote the development of complex infrastructure in different contexts.Collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for infrastructure development: a comparative study of national quality award projects in China
Haiyi Zong, Guangbin Wang, Dongping Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As the foundation of social and economic development, infrastructure development projects are characterized by large initial investment, high technical requirements and thus generally delivered through complex contractor–subcontractor collaboration chains. This study aims to characterize the complexity of collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for infrastructure development through comparing the structural characteristics and the formation mechanisms of contractor–subcontractor collaborative networks for the following two different types of infrastructure: public works (PWCN) owned and operated by government agencies, and public utilities (PUCN) owned and operated by nongovernment agencies.

Based on the method of stochastic actor-oriented models and the longitudinal dataset of National Quality Award Projects in China during 2001–2020, this study compares how the structural characteristics of project-based collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for the two types of projects are different and how related micro-mechanisms, including both structure-based endogenous network effects and attribute-based exogenous homophily effects (institutional, organizational and geographical homophily), collectively underpin the formation of the networks.

The empirical results provide evidence that while the two networks are both characterized by relatively low levels of network density, PWCN is more globally connected around a minority of superconnected contractors as compared with PUCN. The results further reveal that compared with PUCN, the formation of PWCN is more significantly related to the structure-based anti in-isolates effect, suggesting that PWCN is more open for new entrant subcontractors. With regard to the attribute-based homophily effects, the results provide evidence that while both significantly and positively related to the effects of organizational (same company group) and geographical homophily (same location), the formation of PWCN and PUCN is oppositely driven by the institutional homophily effect (same ownership type).

As an exploratory effort of using network perspective to investigate the formation mechanisms of contractor–subcontractor relationships in the infrastructure development domain, this study contributes to a network and self-organizing system view of how contractors select subcontractors in different types of infrastructure projects. The study also provides insights into how contractor–subcontractor collaborative relationships can be better manipulated to promote the development of complex infrastructure in different contexts.

]]>
Collaborative networks between contractors and subcontractors for infrastructure development: a comparative study of national quality award projects in China10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0442Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHaiyi ZongGuangbin WangDongping CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-0710.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0442https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0442/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Development of a significant index model for assessing heritage building maintenance management challengeshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0457/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe paper aims to identify the critical constraints that impede heritage building (HB) facility managers from discharging their duties effectively and develop an index model to guide HB maintenance management (HBMM) practitioners to the critical constraints. A literature review was conducted to identify HBMM constraints. Facilty management practitioners assessed the constraints' significance through an online survey. The factor analysis was used to shortlist and group the constraints, and the constraint clusters were analyzed by the fuzzy synthetic evaluation technique. A significant index cluster to determine HBMM constraints criticality was generated using the linear additive model. Embracing a total of 16 HBMM constraints, the three clusters identified are: (1) managerial and inadequacy constraints, (2) pressure and bureaucracy constraints and (3) HB peculiarities constraints. Based on the generated significant index, the HB peculiarities cluster was identified as the most significant. The study was conducted in a particular jurisdiction, limiting the generalizability of the result. Future research should address this limitation by covering more jurisdictions. The significant index model (SIM) developed enables HBMM practitioners to objectively assess the criticality of HB constraints and facilitates them to effectively strategize and allocate resources for HBMM. The SIM, which transforms subjective judgment into the objective assessment of the HBMM constraints' criticality, can assist practitioners, policymakers and other HBMM stakeholders in implementing strategies for the sustainability of HBs.Development of a significant index model for assessing heritage building maintenance management challenges
Mayowa I. Adegoriola, Joseph H.K. Lai, Esther H.K. Yung, Edwin H.W. Chan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The paper aims to identify the critical constraints that impede heritage building (HB) facility managers from discharging their duties effectively and develop an index model to guide HB maintenance management (HBMM) practitioners to the critical constraints.

A literature review was conducted to identify HBMM constraints. Facilty management practitioners assessed the constraints' significance through an online survey. The factor analysis was used to shortlist and group the constraints, and the constraint clusters were analyzed by the fuzzy synthetic evaluation technique. A significant index cluster to determine HBMM constraints criticality was generated using the linear additive model.

Embracing a total of 16 HBMM constraints, the three clusters identified are: (1) managerial and inadequacy constraints, (2) pressure and bureaucracy constraints and (3) HB peculiarities constraints. Based on the generated significant index, the HB peculiarities cluster was identified as the most significant.

The study was conducted in a particular jurisdiction, limiting the generalizability of the result. Future research should address this limitation by covering more jurisdictions.

The significant index model (SIM) developed enables HBMM practitioners to objectively assess the criticality of HB constraints and facilitates them to effectively strategize and allocate resources for HBMM.

The SIM, which transforms subjective judgment into the objective assessment of the HBMM constraints' criticality, can assist practitioners, policymakers and other HBMM stakeholders in implementing strategies for the sustainability of HBs.

]]>
Development of a significant index model for assessing heritage building maintenance management challenges10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0457Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMayowa I. AdegoriolaJoseph H.K. LaiEsther H.K. YungEdwin H.W. ChanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-0310.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0457https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0457/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigating the mechanism of international contractors' fraud from a moral perspective: evidence from Chinese international contractorshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0488/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to clarify the psychological mechanism of international contractors' fraud by linking performance pressure to fraudulent intention through the displacement of responsibility and addressing the moderating role of moral intensity. Based on moral disengagement theory, performance pressure was hypothesized to be positively associated with fraudulent intention by mediating the displacement of responsibility. Drawing on the issue-contingent theory, moral intensity was hypothesized to inhibit the relationship between performance pressure and displacement of responsibility in three aspects: magnitude of consequences (MC), probability of effect (PE) and social consensus (SC). The scenario-based questionnaire was conducted to collect information from contractors spread across 50 countries. The partial least squares structural equation modeling was employed to assess the proposed model. The results demonstrated that performance pressure was positively associated with the fraudulent intention, and displacement of responsibility exerted a positive partial mediating impact between performance pressure and fraudulent intention. Regarding moral intensity in the moderating analysis, the negative moderating role of MC and PE was significant, while that of SC was insignificant. This study provides international construction practitioners with a deep understanding of the formation mechanism of fraud at the psychological level. It clarifies the psychological mechanism from performance pressure to fraudulent intention by integrating a mediation impact from the displacement of responsibility and a moderation effect from MC and PE. It contributes to the sparse research on how situational factors shape individuals' fraudulent intentions in the international context. It provides a fresh perspective on fraud by constructing a formation model from moral psychological theories.Investigating the mechanism of international contractors' fraud from a moral perspective: evidence from Chinese international contractors
Min Luo, Bon-Gang Hwang, Xianbo Zhao, Xiaopeng Deng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to clarify the psychological mechanism of international contractors' fraud by linking performance pressure to fraudulent intention through the displacement of responsibility and addressing the moderating role of moral intensity.

Based on moral disengagement theory, performance pressure was hypothesized to be positively associated with fraudulent intention by mediating the displacement of responsibility. Drawing on the issue-contingent theory, moral intensity was hypothesized to inhibit the relationship between performance pressure and displacement of responsibility in three aspects: magnitude of consequences (MC), probability of effect (PE) and social consensus (SC). The scenario-based questionnaire was conducted to collect information from contractors spread across 50 countries. The partial least squares structural equation modeling was employed to assess the proposed model.

The results demonstrated that performance pressure was positively associated with the fraudulent intention, and displacement of responsibility exerted a positive partial mediating impact between performance pressure and fraudulent intention. Regarding moral intensity in the moderating analysis, the negative moderating role of MC and PE was significant, while that of SC was insignificant.

This study provides international construction practitioners with a deep understanding of the formation mechanism of fraud at the psychological level.

It clarifies the psychological mechanism from performance pressure to fraudulent intention by integrating a mediation impact from the displacement of responsibility and a moderation effect from MC and PE. It contributes to the sparse research on how situational factors shape individuals' fraudulent intentions in the international context. It provides a fresh perspective on fraud by constructing a formation model from moral psychological theories.

]]>
Investigating the mechanism of international contractors' fraud from a moral perspective: evidence from Chinese international contractors10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0488Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMin LuoBon-Gang HwangXianbo ZhaoXiaopeng DengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2810.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0488https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0488/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barriers to corporate social responsibility performance in construction organizationshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0489/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to identify and prioritize barriers to corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the construction sector. A literature review was first conducted to identify barriers to CSR performance. After that, construction professionals were invited to validate the appropriateness of the obstacles. The discussion allowed the establishment of a list of barriers to CSR performance and their corresponding categories. Data collected from the survey were then analyzed to prioritize the importance of these barriers by the fuzzy DEMATEL-based ANP (DANP) technique. The findings presented 16 barriers to CSR, which were categorized into four clusters. The fuzzy DANP analysis showed that strategic vision is the most crucial cluster, followed by the measurement system, stakeholder perspective and scarce resources. Among the sixteen barriers examined, lack of awareness, knowledge and information of CSR; low priority of CSR; lack of metrics to quantify CSR benefits; lack of guidelines and coherent strategies; and lack of CSR enforcement mechanism are the five most crucial barriers. This study is one of the first that proposes a comprehensive model to prioritize barriers to CSR performance of contractors considering their interrelationships. It provides construction stakeholders with a framework for understanding the linkage between the barriers and CSR framework under the umbrella of stakeholder theory. Thus, the findings might assist construction practitioners and academics in fostering the success of CSR implementation.Barriers to corporate social responsibility performance in construction organizations
Minh Van Nguyen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to identify and prioritize barriers to corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the construction sector.

A literature review was first conducted to identify barriers to CSR performance. After that, construction professionals were invited to validate the appropriateness of the obstacles. The discussion allowed the establishment of a list of barriers to CSR performance and their corresponding categories. Data collected from the survey were then analyzed to prioritize the importance of these barriers by the fuzzy DEMATEL-based ANP (DANP) technique.

The findings presented 16 barriers to CSR, which were categorized into four clusters. The fuzzy DANP analysis showed that strategic vision is the most crucial cluster, followed by the measurement system, stakeholder perspective and scarce resources. Among the sixteen barriers examined, lack of awareness, knowledge and information of CSR; low priority of CSR; lack of metrics to quantify CSR benefits; lack of guidelines and coherent strategies; and lack of CSR enforcement mechanism are the five most crucial barriers.

This study is one of the first that proposes a comprehensive model to prioritize barriers to CSR performance of contractors considering their interrelationships. It provides construction stakeholders with a framework for understanding the linkage between the barriers and CSR framework under the umbrella of stakeholder theory. Thus, the findings might assist construction practitioners and academics in fostering the success of CSR implementation.

]]>
Barriers to corporate social responsibility performance in construction organizations10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0489Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-29© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedMinh Van NguyenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2910.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0489https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0489/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Digital leadership enactment in the construction industry: barriers undermining effective transformationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0491/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn the past decade, transforming key processes and activities towards a more digital nature has been the focus of most industries to exploit the associated advantages. Despite that, organisations in the construction sector are lagging the list of early adopters. The slow rate of a fundamental digital transformation is being linked to the challenges facing an effective leadership. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to shed light on the barriers to digital leadership enactment in the construction industry. Limited research has empirically analysed and discussed these barriers to explain the low transformation rate in the existing body of knowledge. This paper empirically investigates the perspectives of construction industry professionals acquiring various roles in the industry. This study captured the views of 38 participants, adopting a qualitative methodological approach to detail the barriers and explain the slow digital transformation rate. Findings are grouped into five themes: leadership characteristics, management and organisational issues, resource constraints, technological issues and risk perceptions. The findings are helpful to business leaders, researchers, trainers and educators to develop measures to encourage leaders in the industry to be at the forefront of digital transformation in their organisations. Literature, however, is discreet in reflecting the challenges and barriers facing today's leadership in facilitating digital transformation among construction stakeholders. This paper provides insights into the variables that may be undermining wider digital adoption across the construction sector's organisations.Digital leadership enactment in the construction industry: barriers undermining effective transformation
Sambo Lyson Zulu, Ali M. Saad, Saheed O. Ajayi, Mohammed Dulaimi, Maria Unuigbe
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In the past decade, transforming key processes and activities towards a more digital nature has been the focus of most industries to exploit the associated advantages. Despite that, organisations in the construction sector are lagging the list of early adopters. The slow rate of a fundamental digital transformation is being linked to the challenges facing an effective leadership. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to shed light on the barriers to digital leadership enactment in the construction industry. Limited research has empirically analysed and discussed these barriers to explain the low transformation rate in the existing body of knowledge.

This paper empirically investigates the perspectives of construction industry professionals acquiring various roles in the industry. This study captured the views of 38 participants, adopting a qualitative methodological approach to detail the barriers and explain the slow digital transformation rate.

Findings are grouped into five themes: leadership characteristics, management and organisational issues, resource constraints, technological issues and risk perceptions. The findings are helpful to business leaders, researchers, trainers and educators to develop measures to encourage leaders in the industry to be at the forefront of digital transformation in their organisations.

Literature, however, is discreet in reflecting the challenges and barriers facing today's leadership in facilitating digital transformation among construction stakeholders. This paper provides insights into the variables that may be undermining wider digital adoption across the construction sector's organisations.

]]>
Digital leadership enactment in the construction industry: barriers undermining effective transformation10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0491Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSambo Lyson ZuluAli M. SaadSaheed O. AjayiMohammed DulaimiMaria UnuigbeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1010.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0491https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2022-0491/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Optimizing the distribution of outcomes across multiple levels of subcontracting in construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0439/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough outcome sharing in construction is a well-established concept in the literature, there is still an ongoing debate on the most effective approach for distributing project outcomes between an owner and downstream contracting parties (DCPs). To address this issue, this paper aims to investigate an optimal framework for distributing project outcomes among various levels of subcontracting in construction projects. The framework includes contractors, subcontractors, sub-subcontractors and other related parties. To formulate the optimization problem, the principal–agent model is utilized. The theoretical development is validated through an experiment conducted with employees from road construction companies. When distributing outcomes among various levels of subcontracting, the sharing should be determined by their contribution to the outcome, effort costs, level of outcome uncertainty and risk preference. This paper expands on the existing principal–agent theory by incorporating multiple levels of agents, transforming the conventional view of outcome sharing among downstream subcontracting levels into testable hypotheses and well-defined concepts. The paper has practical implications for industry practitioners seeking to effectively allocate benefits and costs throughout a project's subcontracting chain.Optimizing the distribution of outcomes across multiple levels of subcontracting in construction projects
S. Mahdi Hosseinian, Amirhomayoun Jaberi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although outcome sharing in construction is a well-established concept in the literature, there is still an ongoing debate on the most effective approach for distributing project outcomes between an owner and downstream contracting parties (DCPs). To address this issue, this paper aims to investigate an optimal framework for distributing project outcomes among various levels of subcontracting in construction projects. The framework includes contractors, subcontractors, sub-subcontractors and other related parties.

To formulate the optimization problem, the principal–agent model is utilized. The theoretical development is validated through an experiment conducted with employees from road construction companies.

When distributing outcomes among various levels of subcontracting, the sharing should be determined by their contribution to the outcome, effort costs, level of outcome uncertainty and risk preference.

This paper expands on the existing principal–agent theory by incorporating multiple levels of agents, transforming the conventional view of outcome sharing among downstream subcontracting levels into testable hypotheses and well-defined concepts. The paper has practical implications for industry practitioners seeking to effectively allocate benefits and costs throughout a project's subcontracting chain.

]]>
Optimizing the distribution of outcomes across multiple levels of subcontracting in construction projects10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0439Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedS. Mahdi HosseinianAmirhomayoun JaberiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2910.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0439https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0439/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impacts of leader anger expressions on newcomer proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0456/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the growing body of empirical research on leader anger expressions, the issue of how and when leader anger expressions shape newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry has been largely overlooked. Building upon social information processing theory, this research identifies newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem as a mediator, and suggests that newcomers’ performance goal orientation could moderate the relationship. A questionnaire study was conducted on the construction industry in China, and the PROCESS program developed by Hayes was used to test the hypothetical model with 215 valid cases. The results suggest that leader anger expressions are negatively associated with newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem, and organization-based self-esteem mediated the link between leader anger expressions and newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation. Furthermore, the newcomers’ performance goal orientation moderates the negative impact of leader anger expressions on newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem. Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, causal implications are difficult to draw. Moreover, all data we received was based on participant self-reports, which may raise concerns about common method variance. In this paper, we contribute to a deeper understanding of the mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions by which leader anger expressions influence newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation from social information processing perspective, in addition to providing valuable insights for management of newcomers in the construction industry.Impacts of leader anger expressions on newcomer proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry
Fei Kang, Yifei Shi, Jiyu Li, Han Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the growing body of empirical research on leader anger expressions, the issue of how and when leader anger expressions shape newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry has been largely overlooked. Building upon social information processing theory, this research identifies newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem as a mediator, and suggests that newcomers’ performance goal orientation could moderate the relationship.

A questionnaire study was conducted on the construction industry in China, and the PROCESS program developed by Hayes was used to test the hypothetical model with 215 valid cases.

The results suggest that leader anger expressions are negatively associated with newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem, and organization-based self-esteem mediated the link between leader anger expressions and newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation. Furthermore, the newcomers’ performance goal orientation moderates the negative impact of leader anger expressions on newcomers’ organization-based self-esteem.

Due to the cross-sectional nature of this study, causal implications are difficult to draw. Moreover, all data we received was based on participant self-reports, which may raise concerns about common method variance.

In this paper, we contribute to a deeper understanding of the mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions by which leader anger expressions influence newcomers’ proactive career behavior and work alienation from social information processing perspective, in addition to providing valuable insights for management of newcomers in the construction industry.

]]>
Impacts of leader anger expressions on newcomer proactive career behavior and work alienation in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0456Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-08© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedFei KangYifei ShiJiyu LiHan ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-0810.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0456https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0456/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Fall-portent detection for construction sites based on computer vision and machine learninghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0458/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestFall accidents can cause casualties and economic losses in the construction industry. Fall portents, such as loss of balance (LOB) and sudden sways, can result in fatal, nonfatal or attempted fall accidents. All of them are worthy of studying to take measures to prevent future accidents. Detecting fall portents can proactively and comprehensively help managers assess the risk to workers as well as in the construction environment and further prevent fall accidents. This study focused on the postures of workers and aimed to directly detect fall portents using a computer vision (CV)-based noncontact approach. Firstly, a joint coordinate matrix generated from a three-dimensional pose estimation model is employed, and then the matrix is preprocessed by principal component analysis, K-means and pre-experiments. Finally, a modified fusion K-nearest neighbor-based machine learning model is built to fuse information from the x, y and z axes and output the worker's pose status into three stages. The proposed model can output the worker's pose status into three stages (steady–unsteady–fallen) and provide corresponding confidence probabilities for each category. Experiments conducted to evaluate the approach show that the model accuracy reaches 85.02% with threshold-based postprocessing. The proposed fall-portent detection approach can extract the fall risk of workers in the both pre- and post-event phases based on noncontact approach. First, three-dimensional (3D) pose estimation needs sufficient information, which means it may not perform well when applied in complicated environments or when the shooting distance is extremely large. Second, solely focusing on fall-related factors may not be comprehensive enough. Future studies can incorporate the results of this research as an indicator into the risk assessment system to achieve a more comprehensive and accurate evaluation of worker and site risk. The proposed machine learning model determines whether the worker is in a status of steady, unsteady or fallen using a CV-based approach. From the perspective of construction management, when detecting fall-related actions on construction sites, the noncontact approach based on CV has irreplaceable advantages of no interruption to workers and low cost. It can make use of the surveillance cameras on construction sites to recognize both preceding events and happened accidents. The detection of fall portents can help worker risk assessment and safety management. Existing studies using sensor-based approaches are high-cost and invasive for construction workers, and others using CV-based approaches either oversimplify by binary classification of the non-entire fall process or indirectly achieve fall-portent detection. Instead, this study aims to detect fall portents directly by worker's posture and divide the entire fall process into three stages using a CV-based noncontact approach. It can help managers carry out more comprehensive risk assessment and develop preventive measures.Fall-portent detection for construction sites based on computer vision and machine learning
Xiaoyu Liu, Feng Xu, Zhipeng Zhang, Kaiyu Sun
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Fall accidents can cause casualties and economic losses in the construction industry. Fall portents, such as loss of balance (LOB) and sudden sways, can result in fatal, nonfatal or attempted fall accidents. All of them are worthy of studying to take measures to prevent future accidents. Detecting fall portents can proactively and comprehensively help managers assess the risk to workers as well as in the construction environment and further prevent fall accidents.

This study focused on the postures of workers and aimed to directly detect fall portents using a computer vision (CV)-based noncontact approach. Firstly, a joint coordinate matrix generated from a three-dimensional pose estimation model is employed, and then the matrix is preprocessed by principal component analysis, K-means and pre-experiments. Finally, a modified fusion K-nearest neighbor-based machine learning model is built to fuse information from the x, y and z axes and output the worker's pose status into three stages.

The proposed model can output the worker's pose status into three stages (steady–unsteady–fallen) and provide corresponding confidence probabilities for each category. Experiments conducted to evaluate the approach show that the model accuracy reaches 85.02% with threshold-based postprocessing. The proposed fall-portent detection approach can extract the fall risk of workers in the both pre- and post-event phases based on noncontact approach.

First, three-dimensional (3D) pose estimation needs sufficient information, which means it may not perform well when applied in complicated environments or when the shooting distance is extremely large. Second, solely focusing on fall-related factors may not be comprehensive enough. Future studies can incorporate the results of this research as an indicator into the risk assessment system to achieve a more comprehensive and accurate evaluation of worker and site risk.

The proposed machine learning model determines whether the worker is in a status of steady, unsteady or fallen using a CV-based approach. From the perspective of construction management, when detecting fall-related actions on construction sites, the noncontact approach based on CV has irreplaceable advantages of no interruption to workers and low cost. It can make use of the surveillance cameras on construction sites to recognize both preceding events and happened accidents. The detection of fall portents can help worker risk assessment and safety management.

Existing studies using sensor-based approaches are high-cost and invasive for construction workers, and others using CV-based approaches either oversimplify by binary classification of the non-entire fall process or indirectly achieve fall-portent detection. Instead, this study aims to detect fall portents directly by worker's posture and divide the entire fall process into three stages using a CV-based noncontact approach. It can help managers carry out more comprehensive risk assessment and develop preventive measures.

]]>
Fall-portent detection for construction sites based on computer vision and machine learning10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0458Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoyu LiuFeng XuZhipeng ZhangKaiyu SunEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-1210.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0458https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0458/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of challenge and hindrance job stressors on informal safety communication of construction workers in China: the moderating role of co-worker relationshiphttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0460/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestJob stressors have a considerable influence on workplace safety behaviors. However, the findings from previous studies regarding the effect of different types of job stressors have been contradictory. This is attributable to, among other factors, the effectiveness of job stressors varying with occupations and contexts. This study examines the effects of challenge and hindrance stressors on construction workers' informal safety communication at different levels of coworker relationships. A three-dimensional framework of informal safety communication is adopted, including self-needed, citizenship and participatory safety communication. Stepwise regression analysis is then performed using questionnaire survey data collected from 293 construction workers in the Chinese construction industry. The results demonstrate that both challenge and hindrance stressors are negatively associated with self-needed and citizenship safety communication, whereas their relationships with participatory safety communication are not significant. Meanwhile, the mitigation effects of the coworker relationship (represented by trustworthiness and accessibility) on the above negative impacts vary with the communication forms. Higher trustworthiness and accessibility enable workers faced with challenge stressors to actively manage these challenges and engage in self-needed safety communication. Similarly, trustworthiness promotes workers' involvement in self-needed and citizenship safety communication in the face of hindrance stressors, but accessibility is only effective in facilitating self-needed safety communication. By introducing the job demands-resources theory and distinguishing informal safety communication into three categories, this study explains the negative effects of challenge and hindrance job stressors in complex and variable construction contexts and provides additional clues to the current inconsistent findings regarding this framework. The diverse roles of challenge and hindrance job stressors also present strong evidence for the need to differentiate between the types of informal safe communication.Impact of challenge and hindrance job stressors on informal safety communication of construction workers in China: the moderating role of co-worker relationship
Weiyi Cong, Shoujian Zhang, Huakang Liang, Qingting Xiang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Job stressors have a considerable influence on workplace safety behaviors. However, the findings from previous studies regarding the effect of different types of job stressors have been contradictory. This is attributable to, among other factors, the effectiveness of job stressors varying with occupations and contexts. This study examines the effects of challenge and hindrance stressors on construction workers' informal safety communication at different levels of coworker relationships.

A three-dimensional framework of informal safety communication is adopted, including self-needed, citizenship and participatory safety communication. Stepwise regression analysis is then performed using questionnaire survey data collected from 293 construction workers in the Chinese construction industry.

The results demonstrate that both challenge and hindrance stressors are negatively associated with self-needed and citizenship safety communication, whereas their relationships with participatory safety communication are not significant. Meanwhile, the mitigation effects of the coworker relationship (represented by trustworthiness and accessibility) on the above negative impacts vary with the communication forms. Higher trustworthiness and accessibility enable workers faced with challenge stressors to actively manage these challenges and engage in self-needed safety communication. Similarly, trustworthiness promotes workers' involvement in self-needed and citizenship safety communication in the face of hindrance stressors, but accessibility is only effective in facilitating self-needed safety communication.

By introducing the job demands-resources theory and distinguishing informal safety communication into three categories, this study explains the negative effects of challenge and hindrance job stressors in complex and variable construction contexts and provides additional clues to the current inconsistent findings regarding this framework. The diverse roles of challenge and hindrance job stressors also present strong evidence for the need to differentiate between the types of informal safe communication.

]]>
Impact of challenge and hindrance job stressors on informal safety communication of construction workers in China: the moderating role of co-worker relationship10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0460Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-19© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedWeiyi CongShoujian ZhangHuakang LiangQingting XiangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1910.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0460https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0460/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Lean vs agile project management in construction: impacts on project performance outcomeshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0470/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe present research aims to investigate how lean project management (LPM) and agile project management (APM) affect project performance outcomes in the construction sector in Jordan. This study focuses on six key project performance outcomes, namely cost, time, quality, client satisfaction, innovation and responsiveness. The present study employed a quantitative approach to achieve the research objectives. Accordingly, a multi-item survey questionnaire was prepared to gather data from 392 project managers from construction companies in Jordan. The study’s model showed acceptable levels regarding reliability, validity, fit indices and discriminant validity. In order to test the hypotheses of this study, path analysis was employed using Amos 24.0 software. LPM demonstrated a remarkably high positive impact on cost performance. It also positively affected quality performance and client satisfaction. However, LPM insignificantly affected time, innovation and responsiveness performance measures. On the other hand, APM showed a notably high positive impact on innovation and responsiveness. The findings also revealed that APM positively impacted quality performance and client satisfaction. In addition, APM negatively impacted cost performance and insignificantly impacted time performance. This study is one of the first comprehensive studies to empirically examine the impact of both LPM and APM on various project performance outcomes in the construction industry in the context of a developing country. It reveals some similarities and differences between LPM and APM with regard to their impacts on project management outcomes. The findings are expected to guide managers in selecting the appropriate project management approach based on the desired performance outcomes. Accordingly, it offers important implications for project managers in construction companies.Lean vs agile project management in construction: impacts on project performance outcomes
Sara S. Badran, Ayman Bahjat Abdallah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The present research aims to investigate how lean project management (LPM) and agile project management (APM) affect project performance outcomes in the construction sector in Jordan. This study focuses on six key project performance outcomes, namely cost, time, quality, client satisfaction, innovation and responsiveness.

The present study employed a quantitative approach to achieve the research objectives. Accordingly, a multi-item survey questionnaire was prepared to gather data from 392 project managers from construction companies in Jordan. The study’s model showed acceptable levels regarding reliability, validity, fit indices and discriminant validity. In order to test the hypotheses of this study, path analysis was employed using Amos 24.0 software.

LPM demonstrated a remarkably high positive impact on cost performance. It also positively affected quality performance and client satisfaction. However, LPM insignificantly affected time, innovation and responsiveness performance measures. On the other hand, APM showed a notably high positive impact on innovation and responsiveness. The findings also revealed that APM positively impacted quality performance and client satisfaction. In addition, APM negatively impacted cost performance and insignificantly impacted time performance.

This study is one of the first comprehensive studies to empirically examine the impact of both LPM and APM on various project performance outcomes in the construction industry in the context of a developing country. It reveals some similarities and differences between LPM and APM with regard to their impacts on project management outcomes. The findings are expected to guide managers in selecting the appropriate project management approach based on the desired performance outcomes. Accordingly, it offers important implications for project managers in construction companies.

]]>
Lean vs agile project management in construction: impacts on project performance outcomes10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0470Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-05© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedSara S. BadranAyman Bahjat AbdallahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0510.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0470https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0470/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Risk evaluation of mega infrastructure construction supply chain in engineering-procurement-construction projects: an integrated fuzzy AHP and fuzzy DEMATEL approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0472/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe paper covers mega infrastructure construction supply chain (MICSC) in Engineering-Procurement-Construction (EPC) projects, where the frequent occurrence of risk incidents has greatly affected human life. The research aims to establish a risk evaluation index system for MICSC in EPC projects, exploring what risk factors lead to risk incidents and measure the importance and causality of all these risk factors. The research applies a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis methodology to process data sequentially. In the first place, risk factors for MICSC in EPC projects are extracted and identified from literature survey and expert interviews. In the second place, an integration model fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (f-AHP) and fuzzy Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (f-DEMATEL) is constructed to comprehensively analyze all these risk factors. 12 primary risk factors and 36 secondary risk factors comprise the risk evaluation index system for MICSC in EPC projects from 178 literature and 5 professionals. The results indicate that Political Situation (F1), Social Security (F2) and Management Mode (F8) are critical risk factors, where F1 and F2 are cause factors and F8 is an effect factor. There are three main contributions of this paper. First and foremost, from the perspective of the research content, no other study has been able to assess risk factors for MICSC in EPC projects, while embedding nine phases of the whole project life cycle and six subjects of stakeholders into a risk evaluation index system. Additionally, from the perspective of research method, a combined model incorporating f-AHP and f-DEMATEL is constructed to avoid the one-sidedness of a single model. Last but not least, from the perspective of practical significance, focusing on the critical risk factors, a series of effective measures are formulated to make appropriate management decisions for nodal enterprises of MICSC, which can improve their risk management capabilities.Risk evaluation of mega infrastructure construction supply chain in engineering-procurement-construction projects: an integrated fuzzy AHP and fuzzy DEMATEL approach
Runze Yu, Li Ma
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The paper covers mega infrastructure construction supply chain (MICSC) in Engineering-Procurement-Construction (EPC) projects, where the frequent occurrence of risk incidents has greatly affected human life. The research aims to establish a risk evaluation index system for MICSC in EPC projects, exploring what risk factors lead to risk incidents and measure the importance and causality of all these risk factors.

The research applies a combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis methodology to process data sequentially. In the first place, risk factors for MICSC in EPC projects are extracted and identified from literature survey and expert interviews. In the second place, an integration model fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (f-AHP) and fuzzy Decision-making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (f-DEMATEL) is constructed to comprehensively analyze all these risk factors.

12 primary risk factors and 36 secondary risk factors comprise the risk evaluation index system for MICSC in EPC projects from 178 literature and 5 professionals. The results indicate that Political Situation (F1), Social Security (F2) and Management Mode (F8) are critical risk factors, where F1 and F2 are cause factors and F8 is an effect factor.

There are three main contributions of this paper. First and foremost, from the perspective of the research content, no other study has been able to assess risk factors for MICSC in EPC projects, while embedding nine phases of the whole project life cycle and six subjects of stakeholders into a risk evaluation index system. Additionally, from the perspective of research method, a combined model incorporating f-AHP and f-DEMATEL is constructed to avoid the one-sidedness of a single model. Last but not least, from the perspective of practical significance, focusing on the critical risk factors, a series of effective measures are formulated to make appropriate management decisions for nodal enterprises of MICSC, which can improve their risk management capabilities.

]]>
Risk evaluation of mega infrastructure construction supply chain in engineering-procurement-construction projects: an integrated fuzzy AHP and fuzzy DEMATEL approach10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0472Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-09© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedRunze YuLi MaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0910.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0472https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0472/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
The formation of citizens' intentions to purchase prefabricated housing in China: the integrating theory of planned behavior and norm activation modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0473/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to develop an improved understanding of the formation of citizens' purchase intention to increase the adoption of prefabricated housing (PH). An integrative model of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and norm activation model (NAM) was proposed based on previous studies. To verify the conceptual model, an analysis was conducted after data collection from a questionnaire survey. Lastly, findings were presented by explaining the formation of purchase intention in the egoistic and altruistic contexts. Practical implications were likewise discussed. Findings manifest that citizens' purchase intention is influenced by egoistic and altruistic cognitions. An effective strategy is to show citizens the pro-environmental features of PH to promote its adoption because they value the environmental performance of housing. Meanwhile, consumers' social fitness also plays an essential role in decision-making, and the dual contradiction in the PH market is revealed. This study extends the knowledge of psychological decision-making theories in the field of purchase intention toward PH by proposing an integrative framework of TPB and NAM. Results indicate a systematic and comprehensive understanding of consumers' decision-making in the PH domain. Moreover, results of this research contribute to specifying and refining the applicable contexts of TPB and NAM by adding two antecedents: subjective knowledge and environmental concern. This research contributes to the literature by being one of the first to investigate purchase intention toward a high-cost product with invisible technological innovation.The formation of citizens' intentions to purchase prefabricated housing in China: the integrating theory of planned behavior and norm activation model
Zhenzong Zhou, Geoffrey Shen, Jin Xue, Chengshuang Sun, Yongyue Liu, Weiyi Cong, Tao Yu, Yaowu Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to develop an improved understanding of the formation of citizens' purchase intention to increase the adoption of prefabricated housing (PH).

An integrative model of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and norm activation model (NAM) was proposed based on previous studies. To verify the conceptual model, an analysis was conducted after data collection from a questionnaire survey. Lastly, findings were presented by explaining the formation of purchase intention in the egoistic and altruistic contexts. Practical implications were likewise discussed.

Findings manifest that citizens' purchase intention is influenced by egoistic and altruistic cognitions. An effective strategy is to show citizens the pro-environmental features of PH to promote its adoption because they value the environmental performance of housing. Meanwhile, consumers' social fitness also plays an essential role in decision-making, and the dual contradiction in the PH market is revealed.

This study extends the knowledge of psychological decision-making theories in the field of purchase intention toward PH by proposing an integrative framework of TPB and NAM. Results indicate a systematic and comprehensive understanding of consumers' decision-making in the PH domain. Moreover, results of this research contribute to specifying and refining the applicable contexts of TPB and NAM by adding two antecedents: subjective knowledge and environmental concern. This research contributes to the literature by being one of the first to investigate purchase intention toward a high-cost product with invisible technological innovation.

]]>
The formation of citizens' intentions to purchase prefabricated housing in China: the integrating theory of planned behavior and norm activation model10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0473Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhenzong ZhouGeoffrey ShenJin XueChengshuang SunYongyue LiuWeiyi CongTao YuYaowu WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3110.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0473https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0473/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Transmission of risk to China's construction industry due to international interest rate fluctuationshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0502/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestUnder the trend of global economic integration and the new context of stagflation, frequent fluctuations in international interest rates are exerting far-reaching impacts on the world economy. In this paper, the transmission mechanism of the impact of fluctuations in international interest rates (specifically, the American interest rate) on the bankruptcy risk in China's pillar industry, the construction industry (which is also sensitive to interest rates), is examined. Using an improved contingent claims analysis, the bankruptcy risk of enterprises is calculated in this paper. Additionally, an individual fixed-effects model is developed to investigate the mediating effects of international interest rates on the bankruptcy risk in the Chinese construction industry. The heterogeneity of subindustries in the industrial chain and the impact of China's energy consumption structure are also analysed in this paper. The findings show that fluctuations in international interest rates, which affect the bankruptcy risk of China's construction industry, are mainly transmitted through two major pathways, namely, commodity price effects and exchange rate effects. In addition, the authors examine the important impact of China's energy consumption structure on risk transmission and assess the transmission and sharing of risks within the industrial chain. First, in the research field, the study of international interest rate risk is extended to domestic-oriented industries. Second, in terms of the research content, this paper is focused on China-specific issues, including the significant influence of China's energy consumption structure characteristics and the risk contagion (and risk sharing) as determined by the current development of the Chinese construction industry. Third, in terms of research methods a modified contingent claim analysis approach to bankruptcy risk indicators is adopted for this study, thus overcoming the problems of data frequency, market sentiment and financial data fraud, which are issues that are ignored by most relevant studies.Transmission of risk to China's construction industry due to international interest rate fluctuations
Kai Zhang, Lingfei Chen, Xinmiao Zhou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Under the trend of global economic integration and the new context of stagflation, frequent fluctuations in international interest rates are exerting far-reaching impacts on the world economy. In this paper, the transmission mechanism of the impact of fluctuations in international interest rates (specifically, the American interest rate) on the bankruptcy risk in China's pillar industry, the construction industry (which is also sensitive to interest rates), is examined.

Using an improved contingent claims analysis, the bankruptcy risk of enterprises is calculated in this paper. Additionally, an individual fixed-effects model is developed to investigate the mediating effects of international interest rates on the bankruptcy risk in the Chinese construction industry. The heterogeneity of subindustries in the industrial chain and the impact of China's energy consumption structure are also analysed in this paper.

The findings show that fluctuations in international interest rates, which affect the bankruptcy risk of China's construction industry, are mainly transmitted through two major pathways, namely, commodity price effects and exchange rate effects. In addition, the authors examine the important impact of China's energy consumption structure on risk transmission and assess the transmission and sharing of risks within the industrial chain.

First, in the research field, the study of international interest rate risk is extended to domestic-oriented industries. Second, in terms of the research content, this paper is focused on China-specific issues, including the significant influence of China's energy consumption structure characteristics and the risk contagion (and risk sharing) as determined by the current development of the Chinese construction industry. Third, in terms of research methods a modified contingent claim analysis approach to bankruptcy risk indicators is adopted for this study, thus overcoming the problems of data frequency, market sentiment and financial data fraud, which are issues that are ignored by most relevant studies.

]]>
Transmission of risk to China's construction industry due to international interest rate fluctuations10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0502Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKai ZhangLingfei ChenXinmiao ZhouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3110.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0502https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0502/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
What hinders the implementation of carbon emission reduction in the construction industry: evidence from integrated multi-criteria decision-making in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0511/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research paper aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the barriers to CER in the construction industry, assesses the barriers' relative degrees of hindrance and causal mechanisms. Firstly, 26 carbon emission reduction (CER) barriers in the construction industry were identified based on a systematic literature review (SLR) and categorized into five dimensions: policy, economy, society, technology and organization (PEST + O model). Secondly, the Best–Worst Method (BWM) was used to clarify the degrees of hindrance of the CER barriers. Then, the Grey-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Grey-DEMATEL) was used to visualize the directional cause–result relationship network among prominent barriers. Finally, the Boston matrix model was used to propose differentiated strategies to address CER barriers in the construction industry. The calculated centrality and causality of the prominent barriers indicated that the lack of relevant legal policies and normative guidelines, the poor binding force and enforcement of existing relevant policies, the lack of effective economic subsidies and incentives and the difficulty in the operation, transformation and upgrading of existing construction CER are the key barriers that CER needs to address first in the construction industry. Considering the order of priority and the optimal path, differentiated countermeasures are proposed to address key, driving, independent and effect barriers. This study develops a BWM–Grey-DEMATEL integrated multi-criteria decision-making model. An innovative C-shaped strategic map for addressing CER barriers in the construction industry is proposed by integrating the dual dimensions of time and space. This will guide practitioners, policymakers and decision-makers in developing CER strategies.What hinders the implementation of carbon emission reduction in the construction industry: evidence from integrated multi-criteria decision-making in China
Junjie Li, Jiaying Zhang, Chunlu Liu, Xiangyun Luo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research paper aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the barriers to CER in the construction industry, assesses the barriers' relative degrees of hindrance and causal mechanisms.

Firstly, 26 carbon emission reduction (CER) barriers in the construction industry were identified based on a systematic literature review (SLR) and categorized into five dimensions: policy, economy, society, technology and organization (PEST + O model). Secondly, the Best–Worst Method (BWM) was used to clarify the degrees of hindrance of the CER barriers. Then, the Grey-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Grey-DEMATEL) was used to visualize the directional cause–result relationship network among prominent barriers. Finally, the Boston matrix model was used to propose differentiated strategies to address CER barriers in the construction industry.

The calculated centrality and causality of the prominent barriers indicated that the lack of relevant legal policies and normative guidelines, the poor binding force and enforcement of existing relevant policies, the lack of effective economic subsidies and incentives and the difficulty in the operation, transformation and upgrading of existing construction CER are the key barriers that CER needs to address first in the construction industry. Considering the order of priority and the optimal path, differentiated countermeasures are proposed to address key, driving, independent and effect barriers.

This study develops a BWM–Grey-DEMATEL integrated multi-criteria decision-making model. An innovative C-shaped strategic map for addressing CER barriers in the construction industry is proposed by integrating the dual dimensions of time and space. This will guide practitioners, policymakers and decision-makers in developing CER strategies.

]]>
What hinders the implementation of carbon emission reduction in the construction industry: evidence from integrated multi-criteria decision-making in China10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0511Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJunjie LiJiaying ZhangChunlu LiuXiangyun LuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-2010.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0511https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0511/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Entity recognition in the field of coal mine construction safety based on a pre-training language modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0512/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSafety management plays an important part in coal mine construction. Due to complex data, the implementation of the construction safety knowledge scattered in standards poses a challenge. This paper aims to develop a knowledge extraction model to automatically and efficiently extract domain knowledge from unstructured texts. Bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT)-bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM)-conditional random field (CRF) method based on a pre-training language model was applied to carry out knowledge entity recognition in the field of coal mine construction safety in this paper. Firstly, 80 safety standards for coal mine construction were collected, sorted out and marked as a descriptive corpus. Then, the BERT pre-training language model was used to obtain dynamic word vectors. Finally, the BiLSTM-CRF model concluded the entity’s optimal tag sequence. Accordingly, 11,933 entities and 2,051 relationships in the standard specifications texts of this paper were identified and a language model suitable for coal mine construction safety management was proposed. The experiments showed that F1 values were all above 60% in nine types of entities such as security management. F1 value of this model was more than 60% for entity extraction. The model identified and extracted entities more accurately than conventional methods. This work completed the domain knowledge query and built a Q&A platform via entities and relationships identified by the standard specifications suitable for coal mines. This paper proposed a systematic framework for texts in coal mine construction safety to improve efficiency and accuracy of domain-specific entity extraction. In addition, the pretraining language model was also introduced into the coal mine construction safety to realize dynamic entity recognition, which provides technical support and theoretical reference for the optimization of safety management platforms.Entity recognition in the field of coal mine construction safety based on a pre-training language model
Na Xu, Yanxiang Liang, Chaoran Guo, Bo Meng, Xueqing Zhou, Yuting Hu, Bo Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Safety management plays an important part in coal mine construction. Due to complex data, the implementation of the construction safety knowledge scattered in standards poses a challenge. This paper aims to develop a knowledge extraction model to automatically and efficiently extract domain knowledge from unstructured texts.

Bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT)-bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM)-conditional random field (CRF) method based on a pre-training language model was applied to carry out knowledge entity recognition in the field of coal mine construction safety in this paper. Firstly, 80 safety standards for coal mine construction were collected, sorted out and marked as a descriptive corpus. Then, the BERT pre-training language model was used to obtain dynamic word vectors. Finally, the BiLSTM-CRF model concluded the entity’s optimal tag sequence.

Accordingly, 11,933 entities and 2,051 relationships in the standard specifications texts of this paper were identified and a language model suitable for coal mine construction safety management was proposed. The experiments showed that F1 values were all above 60% in nine types of entities such as security management. F1 value of this model was more than 60% for entity extraction. The model identified and extracted entities more accurately than conventional methods.

This work completed the domain knowledge query and built a Q&A platform via entities and relationships identified by the standard specifications suitable for coal mines. This paper proposed a systematic framework for texts in coal mine construction safety to improve efficiency and accuracy of domain-specific entity extraction. In addition, the pretraining language model was also introduced into the coal mine construction safety to realize dynamic entity recognition, which provides technical support and theoretical reference for the optimization of safety management platforms.

]]>
Entity recognition in the field of coal mine construction safety based on a pre-training language model10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0512Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNa XuYanxiang LiangChaoran GuoBo MengXueqing ZhouYuting HuBo ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2810.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0512https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0512/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing incentive mechanisms for long-term and short-term technological innovation in major engineering projects using principal-agent theoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0520/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPromoting technological innovation is important to address the complexity of major engineering challenges. Technological innovations include short-term innovations at the project level and long-term innovations that can enhance competitive advantages. The purpose of this study is to develop an incentive mechanism for the public sector that considers short-term and long-term efforts from the private sector, aiming to promote technological innovation in major engineering projects. This study constructs an incentive model considering the differences in short-term and long-term innovation efforts from the private sector. This model emphasizes the spillover effect of long-term efforts on current projects and the cost synergy effect between short-term and long-term efforts. It also explores the factors influencing the optimal incentive strategies for the public sector and innovation strategies for the private sector. The results indicate that increasing the output coefficient of short-term and long-term efforts and reducing the cost coefficient not only enhance the innovation efforts of the private sector but also prompt the public sector to increase the incentive coefficient. The spillover effect of long-term innovation efforts and the synergy effect of the two efforts are positively related to the incentive coefficient for the public sector. This research addresses the existing gap in understanding how the public sector should devise incentive mechanisms for technological innovation when contractors acting as the private sector are responsible for construction within a public-private partnership (PPP) model. In constructing the incentive mechanism model, this study incorporates the private sector's short-term efforts at the project level and their long-term efforts for sustained corporate development, thus adding considerable practical significance.Developing incentive mechanisms for long-term and short-term technological innovation in major engineering projects using principal-agent theory
Jianbo Zhu, Jialong Chen, Wenliang Jin, Qiming Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Promoting technological innovation is important to address the complexity of major engineering challenges. Technological innovations include short-term innovations at the project level and long-term innovations that can enhance competitive advantages. The purpose of this study is to develop an incentive mechanism for the public sector that considers short-term and long-term efforts from the private sector, aiming to promote technological innovation in major engineering projects.

This study constructs an incentive model considering the differences in short-term and long-term innovation efforts from the private sector. This model emphasizes the spillover effect of long-term efforts on current projects and the cost synergy effect between short-term and long-term efforts. It also explores the factors influencing the optimal incentive strategies for the public sector and innovation strategies for the private sector.

The results indicate that increasing the output coefficient of short-term and long-term efforts and reducing the cost coefficient not only enhance the innovation efforts of the private sector but also prompt the public sector to increase the incentive coefficient. The spillover effect of long-term innovation efforts and the synergy effect of the two efforts are positively related to the incentive coefficient for the public sector.

This research addresses the existing gap in understanding how the public sector should devise incentive mechanisms for technological innovation when contractors acting as the private sector are responsible for construction within a public-private partnership (PPP) model. In constructing the incentive mechanism model, this study incorporates the private sector's short-term efforts at the project level and their long-term efforts for sustained corporate development, thus adding considerable practical significance.

]]>
Developing incentive mechanisms for long-term and short-term technological innovation in major engineering projects using principal-agent theory10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0520Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJianbo ZhuJialong ChenWenliang JinQiming LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-1510.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0520https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0520/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Does owners’ leadership matter to relational behavior in mega construction projects? A role orientation perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0528/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough researchers have long recognized the importance of participating organizations’ (POs) relational behavior for mega construction projects (MCPs) performance, relational behavior may not be executed by POs without effective leadership from project owners. However, little is known about the mechanisms linking owners’ leadership styles to POs’ relational behavior. This study draws on full range leadership theory and role theory to examine the relationships between owners’ leadership styles (i.e. transformational and transactional) and relational behavior. POs’ role orientations (i.e. normative and economic) are considered as potential mediators. Data were collected from 175 managers deeply involved in MCPs. Hierarchical regression model and bootstrapping methods were performed on the data to examine the direct effects of owners’ leadership on POs’ relational behavior and the mediating effects of POs’ role orientations. The results revealed that both owners’ transformational and transactional leadership positively affect POs’ relational behavior, despite the former being higher than the latter, and indirectly influence relational behavior via POs’ normative and economic role orientation, respectively. This study provides a clear picture of how owners’ leadership can motivate POs’ relational behavior to achieve high-quality inter-organizational relationships in MCPs. The findings can guide owners’ top manager selection by prioritizing those with transformational leadership, which is beneficial to achieving high-level relational behavior of POs. The results also imply that owners should pay greater attention to cultivating POs’ normative role orientation by encouraging teamwork and open communication to enhance their implementation of relational behavior. Unlike previous research focusing more on intra-organizational leader–follower relationship within one PO, this study is one of the first to empirically confirm owners’ leadership as a critical antecedent of POs’ relational behavior, thus enhancing the theoretical understanding of inter-organizational relationship management in MCPs. Based on role theory, this study considers a novel organizational psychology mechanism, i.e. POs’ role orientations, as the mediator to unravel how owners’ leadership affects POs’ relational behavior, which was rarely invoked in MCP leadership literature.Does owners’ leadership matter to relational behavior in mega construction projects? A role orientation perspective
Xian Zheng, Xiao Hu, Chunlin Wu, Ju Bai
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although researchers have long recognized the importance of participating organizations’ (POs) relational behavior for mega construction projects (MCPs) performance, relational behavior may not be executed by POs without effective leadership from project owners. However, little is known about the mechanisms linking owners’ leadership styles to POs’ relational behavior. This study draws on full range leadership theory and role theory to examine the relationships between owners’ leadership styles (i.e. transformational and transactional) and relational behavior. POs’ role orientations (i.e. normative and economic) are considered as potential mediators.

Data were collected from 175 managers deeply involved in MCPs. Hierarchical regression model and bootstrapping methods were performed on the data to examine the direct effects of owners’ leadership on POs’ relational behavior and the mediating effects of POs’ role orientations.

The results revealed that both owners’ transformational and transactional leadership positively affect POs’ relational behavior, despite the former being higher than the latter, and indirectly influence relational behavior via POs’ normative and economic role orientation, respectively.

This study provides a clear picture of how owners’ leadership can motivate POs’ relational behavior to achieve high-quality inter-organizational relationships in MCPs. The findings can guide owners’ top manager selection by prioritizing those with transformational leadership, which is beneficial to achieving high-level relational behavior of POs. The results also imply that owners should pay greater attention to cultivating POs’ normative role orientation by encouraging teamwork and open communication to enhance their implementation of relational behavior.

Unlike previous research focusing more on intra-organizational leader–follower relationship within one PO, this study is one of the first to empirically confirm owners’ leadership as a critical antecedent of POs’ relational behavior, thus enhancing the theoretical understanding of inter-organizational relationship management in MCPs. Based on role theory, this study considers a novel organizational psychology mechanism, i.e. POs’ role orientations, as the mediator to unravel how owners’ leadership affects POs’ relational behavior, which was rarely invoked in MCP leadership literature.

]]>
Does owners’ leadership matter to relational behavior in mega construction projects? A role orientation perspective10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0528Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-06© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXian ZhengXiao HuChunlin WuJu BaiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-0610.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0528https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0528/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring factors influencing knowledge sharing in mobile social media groups within construction project teamshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0533/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough previous research has recognized the pivotal role of mobile social media in knowledge sharing among project members, little is known about what factors affect knowledge sharing in mobile social media groups (MSMGs). Against this background, using normative social influence theory, this study attempts to explore factors influencing knowledge sharing in MSMGs. Data from 205 Chinese construction project members are collected and used for analysis. Ordinary least squares regression by Stata 16 is used to test the proposed hypotheses. Concerning role norms, gender difference in knowledge sharing behavior (KSB) is found, while it is not the case for knowledge quality (KQ). Work experience is found to positively affect KQ, but shows no influence on KSB. As for group norms, the inverted-U relationship between number of members and KSB is partially supported. In addition, organizational norms generally exhibit the greatest influence on both KSB and KQ among the three forms of norms. This study deepens the understanding of knowledge sharing factors in mobile social media environments and affords practical implications for how to make full use of social media for knowledge management within construction project teams.Exploring factors influencing knowledge sharing in mobile social media groups within construction project teams
Jianyao Jia, Ming Wu, Bon-Gang Hwang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although previous research has recognized the pivotal role of mobile social media in knowledge sharing among project members, little is known about what factors affect knowledge sharing in mobile social media groups (MSMGs). Against this background, using normative social influence theory, this study attempts to explore factors influencing knowledge sharing in MSMGs.

Data from 205 Chinese construction project members are collected and used for analysis. Ordinary least squares regression by Stata 16 is used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Concerning role norms, gender difference in knowledge sharing behavior (KSB) is found, while it is not the case for knowledge quality (KQ). Work experience is found to positively affect KQ, but shows no influence on KSB. As for group norms, the inverted-U relationship between number of members and KSB is partially supported. In addition, organizational norms generally exhibit the greatest influence on both KSB and KQ among the three forms of norms.

This study deepens the understanding of knowledge sharing factors in mobile social media environments and affords practical implications for how to make full use of social media for knowledge management within construction project teams.

]]>
Exploring factors influencing knowledge sharing in mobile social media groups within construction project teams10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0533Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJianyao JiaMing WuBon-Gang HwangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2610.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0533https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0533/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A TOPSIS-based framework for construction projects’ portfolio selection in the public sectorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0534/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper proposes selecting a construction project portfolio in the context of a public institution, which makes it possible to assess quantitative and qualitative criteria, thereby meeting the needs of the institution and the existing constraints. The research design follows a framework using technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) associated with integer linear programming. The method involves a flow of assessments allowing criteria and weights to be elicited where outcomes are based on the experts' intra-criteria assessment of alternatives and decision-makers' inter-criteria assessment. This is of utmost interest to public organizations, where selections must result in benefits and lower costs, integrating the experts' technical and management perspectives. Public institutions are characterized by having limited financial and personnel resources for project development despite having a high demand for requests not associated with profits, making it essential to have a framework that enables using multiple criteria to better evaluate the benefits related to these decisions. The main contributions of this article are: (1) the proposition of a framework for selecting construction project portfolios considering the organization's strategic needs; (2) identifying quantitative and qualitative assessment criteria for project selection; (3) integrating TOPSIS with an optimization process for selecting the construction project portfolios and (4) providing a structured decision process for selecting the portfolio that best represents the interests of the institution within its limited resources and personnel.A TOPSIS-based framework for construction projects’ portfolio selection in the public sector
Cláudia Rafaela Saraiva de Melo Simões Nascimento, Adiel Teixeira de Almeida-Filho, Rachel Perez Palha
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper proposes selecting a construction project portfolio in the context of a public institution, which makes it possible to assess quantitative and qualitative criteria, thereby meeting the needs of the institution and the existing constraints.

The research design follows a framework using technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) associated with integer linear programming.

The method involves a flow of assessments allowing criteria and weights to be elicited where outcomes are based on the experts' intra-criteria assessment of alternatives and decision-makers' inter-criteria assessment. This is of utmost interest to public organizations, where selections must result in benefits and lower costs, integrating the experts' technical and management perspectives.

Public institutions are characterized by having limited financial and personnel resources for project development despite having a high demand for requests not associated with profits, making it essential to have a framework that enables using multiple criteria to better evaluate the benefits related to these decisions.

The main contributions of this article are: (1) the proposition of a framework for selecting construction project portfolios considering the organization's strategic needs; (2) identifying quantitative and qualitative assessment criteria for project selection; (3) integrating TOPSIS with an optimization process for selecting the construction project portfolios and (4) providing a structured decision process for selecting the portfolio that best represents the interests of the institution within its limited resources and personnel.

]]>
A TOPSIS-based framework for construction projects’ portfolio selection in the public sector10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0534Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedCláudia Rafaela Saraiva de Melo Simões NascimentoAdiel Teixeira de Almeida-FilhoRachel Perez PalhaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2810.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0534https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-05-2023-0534/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
What influences stakeholders' decision in adopting blockchain-based quality tracking systems in prefabricated constructionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0501/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe quality liability of prefabricated components (PCs) is a major issue among key stakeholders. The blockchain-based quality tracking systems are supposed to support a more transparent and trusting quality control process. However, many factors affect the stakeholders' willingness toward the adoption of such quality tracking systems. The purpose of this research is to investigate the key factors that influence the stakeholders' adoption decisions toward the application of the quality tracking system in PCs and develop coping strategies. An evolutionary game model is established that includes the manufacturer, constructor and developer. Four scenarios of equilibriums and the game's evolutionary stable strategies are analyzed, and the corresponding stability conditions are then obtained. Based on the tripartite game model, two representative projects are used as case studies to simulate how different factors affect the stakeholders' decisions. First, trade-offs between cost and benefits were the most prominent factor in the adoption decision-making. Second, the advancement of technologies would compensate for their immaturity. Third, subsidy and penalty provision of the developer and high-level trust both incentivize the stakeholders to adopt the quality tracking systems. This research investigates the influence of technology, environment and participant related factors on the adoption decisions of the quality tracking system for PCs and discovered that technology maturity and advancement played an essential role. It is expected that the research findings would be of value to policy makers and project management personnel for better quality control of prefabricated construction.What influences stakeholders' decision in adopting blockchain-based quality tracking systems in prefabricated construction
Sheng Xu, Linfeng Zhou, Patrick X.W. Zou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The quality liability of prefabricated components (PCs) is a major issue among key stakeholders. The blockchain-based quality tracking systems are supposed to support a more transparent and trusting quality control process. However, many factors affect the stakeholders' willingness toward the adoption of such quality tracking systems. The purpose of this research is to investigate the key factors that influence the stakeholders' adoption decisions toward the application of the quality tracking system in PCs and develop coping strategies.

An evolutionary game model is established that includes the manufacturer, constructor and developer. Four scenarios of equilibriums and the game's evolutionary stable strategies are analyzed, and the corresponding stability conditions are then obtained. Based on the tripartite game model, two representative projects are used as case studies to simulate how different factors affect the stakeholders' decisions.

First, trade-offs between cost and benefits were the most prominent factor in the adoption decision-making. Second, the advancement of technologies would compensate for their immaturity. Third, subsidy and penalty provision of the developer and high-level trust both incentivize the stakeholders to adopt the quality tracking systems.

This research investigates the influence of technology, environment and participant related factors on the adoption decisions of the quality tracking system for PCs and discovered that technology maturity and advancement played an essential role. It is expected that the research findings would be of value to policy makers and project management personnel for better quality control of prefabricated construction.

]]>
What influences stakeholders' decision in adopting blockchain-based quality tracking systems in prefabricated construction10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0501Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-10© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedSheng XuLinfeng ZhouPatrick X.W. ZouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1010.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0501https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0501/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
An integrated risk assessment method for cross-regional mega construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0534/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to develop a novel integrated risk assessment method from the system perspective to evaluate the risk of the cross-regional mega construction project (CMCP). Furthermore, this paper aims to confirm the core risk source factors and refine the risk management strategies of CMCPs through a case study. Based on the analysis of the risk system of CMCPs, the concept model and risk assessment principles of integrated risk assessment were confirmed. The risk source factors and project objectives of the CMCP were identified from a literature review, export interview and case analysis. According to the vulnerability theory, the integrated risk assessment model was developed by involving vulnerabilities, threats, objectives and interaction of those factors synthetically. Then, ZW high-speed railway from China was analyzed to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. As a result, 12 threat factors and 12 vulnerability factors were identified. Based on the case study, the main external threat comes from T13 (conflicts of interest between local governments) and T23 (harsh natural environment); the most easily exploited internal vulnerabilities were V11 (complexity of technology), V13 (lack of experience in technical application), V21 (inadequate experience) and V23 (lack of interest coordination mechanism). Moreover, the economic objective was most affected. It is essential to develop an interest coordination mechanism for CMCPs. The harsh natural environment is a critical factor, but it also promotes technological innovation and iteration. Public opinions in different regions are critical for CMCPs, and more emphasis should be placed on public opinion surveys of CMCPs. Moreover, diverse and flexible environmental protection strategies should apply in CMCPs. This research has the following three contributions. First, based on vulnerability theory, an integrated risk assessment approach of CMCPs is developed, which enriches the risk measurement method system and provides inspiration for future research on risk in the construction industry. Second, the risk sources of CMCPs are identified from the perspective of vulnerability and threat to provide clear guidance for the risk management of CMCPs. Third, the core risk source factors and management strategies confirmed by the case study will be beneficial for various governments in different regions and project managers to optimize the project management scheme, as they are transferable management experiences.An integrated risk assessment method for cross-regional mega construction projects
Pengcheng Xiang, Xin Xia, Xianya Pang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel integrated risk assessment method from the system perspective to evaluate the risk of the cross-regional mega construction project (CMCP). Furthermore, this paper aims to confirm the core risk source factors and refine the risk management strategies of CMCPs through a case study.

Based on the analysis of the risk system of CMCPs, the concept model and risk assessment principles of integrated risk assessment were confirmed. The risk source factors and project objectives of the CMCP were identified from a literature review, export interview and case analysis. According to the vulnerability theory, the integrated risk assessment model was developed by involving vulnerabilities, threats, objectives and interaction of those factors synthetically. Then, ZW high-speed railway from China was analyzed to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method.

As a result, 12 threat factors and 12 vulnerability factors were identified. Based on the case study, the main external threat comes from T13 (conflicts of interest between local governments) and T23 (harsh natural environment); the most easily exploited internal vulnerabilities were V11 (complexity of technology), V13 (lack of experience in technical application), V21 (inadequate experience) and V23 (lack of interest coordination mechanism). Moreover, the economic objective was most affected.

It is essential to develop an interest coordination mechanism for CMCPs. The harsh natural environment is a critical factor, but it also promotes technological innovation and iteration. Public opinions in different regions are critical for CMCPs, and more emphasis should be placed on public opinion surveys of CMCPs. Moreover, diverse and flexible environmental protection strategies should apply in CMCPs.

This research has the following three contributions. First, based on vulnerability theory, an integrated risk assessment approach of CMCPs is developed, which enriches the risk measurement method system and provides inspiration for future research on risk in the construction industry. Second, the risk sources of CMCPs are identified from the perspective of vulnerability and threat to provide clear guidance for the risk management of CMCPs. Third, the core risk source factors and management strategies confirmed by the case study will be beneficial for various governments in different regions and project managers to optimize the project management scheme, as they are transferable management experiences.

]]>
An integrated risk assessment method for cross-regional mega construction projects10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0534Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-03© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedPengcheng XiangXin XiaXianya PangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-0310.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0534https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0534/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Pre-construction duration of public-private partnership projects: evidence from Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0544/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPre-construction of a project comprises stages that are pivotal for the procurement performance. It is defined as the duration from the project's initiation to construction. However, Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) have been subjected to a long pre-construction, thereby leading to an inefficient development process. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to pay attention to the influencing factors elongating the pre-construction duration. Based on data of 5,677 PPP projects between 2009 and 2021 in China, the authors adopt the Accelerated Failure Time (AFT) model in duration analysis to empirically analyze the following underlying dynamics determining the duration of PPP pre-construction stages: (1) policy uncertainty; (2) corruption; and (3) procurement method selection. To observe the influencing paths more specifically, the authors divided the pre-construction duration into the pre-tendering period and tendering period and regressed them separately. The results indicate that the pre-construction duration is significantly prolonged with increased policy uncertainty and corruption degree as well as the use of tendering methods. Meanwhile, the above factors have a greater impact on the pre-tendering period than the tendering period. The contribution of this study is twofold: (1) theoretically, this paper provides new evidence on the impact of PPP policy uncertainty, corruption and procurement method selection on the pre-construction duration. It complements empirical studies on the factors elongating the time efficiency of PPPs projects. (2) In practice, it provides a specific path for the government to improve the time efficiency of PPPs.Pre-construction duration of public-private partnership projects: evidence from China
Cong Wang, Henry Liu, Michael C.P. Sing, Jin Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Pre-construction of a project comprises stages that are pivotal for the procurement performance. It is defined as the duration from the project's initiation to construction. However, Private Public Partnerships (PPPs) have been subjected to a long pre-construction, thereby leading to an inefficient development process. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to pay attention to the influencing factors elongating the pre-construction duration.

Based on data of 5,677 PPP projects between 2009 and 2021 in China, the authors adopt the Accelerated Failure Time (AFT) model in duration analysis to empirically analyze the following underlying dynamics determining the duration of PPP pre-construction stages: (1) policy uncertainty; (2) corruption; and (3) procurement method selection. To observe the influencing paths more specifically, the authors divided the pre-construction duration into the pre-tendering period and tendering period and regressed them separately.

The results indicate that the pre-construction duration is significantly prolonged with increased policy uncertainty and corruption degree as well as the use of tendering methods. Meanwhile, the above factors have a greater impact on the pre-tendering period than the tendering period.

The contribution of this study is twofold: (1) theoretically, this paper provides new evidence on the impact of PPP policy uncertainty, corruption and procurement method selection on the pre-construction duration. It complements empirical studies on the factors elongating the time efficiency of PPPs projects. (2) In practice, it provides a specific path for the government to improve the time efficiency of PPPs.

]]>
Pre-construction duration of public-private partnership projects: evidence from China10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0544Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-15© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedCong WangHenry LiuMichael C.P. SingJin WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1510.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0544https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0544/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Risk analysis of public-private partnership waste-to-energy incineration projects in China: a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0546/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMany waste-to-energy (WTE) plants are constructed and operated using the public-private partnership (PPP) mode in China. However, risk events of PPP WTE incineration projects sometimes occur. This study aims to clarify the relationship of risks in China's PPP WTE incineration projects and identify the key risks accordingly and risk transmission paths. A risk list of PPP WTE incineration projects was obtained based on literature analysis. Moreover, a hybrid approach combining fuzzy sets, decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was developed to analyze the causality of risks, explore critical risks and reveal the risk transmission paths. The quantitative analysis process was implemented in MATLAB. The results show that government decision-making risk, government credit risk, government supervision behavior risk, legal and policy risk, revenue and cost risk and management capacity risk are the critical risks of PPP WTE incineration projects in China. These critical risks are at different levels in the risk hierarchy and often trigger other risks. Currently, there is a lack of exploration on the interaction between the risks of PPP WTE incineration projects. This study fills this gap by examining the key risks and risk transfer pathways of PPP WTE incineration projects from the perspective of risk interactions. The findings can help the public and private sectors to systematically understand the risks in PPP WTE incineration projects, thus enabling them to identify the risks that need to be focused on when making decisions and to optimize risk prevention strategies. The proposed hybrid approach can offer methodological ideas for risk analysis of other types of PPP projects.Risk analysis of public-private partnership waste-to-energy incineration projects in China: a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM approach
Min Cheng, Lin Liu, Xiaotong Cheng, Li Tao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Many waste-to-energy (WTE) plants are constructed and operated using the public-private partnership (PPP) mode in China. However, risk events of PPP WTE incineration projects sometimes occur. This study aims to clarify the relationship of risks in China's PPP WTE incineration projects and identify the key risks accordingly and risk transmission paths.

A risk list of PPP WTE incineration projects was obtained based on literature analysis. Moreover, a hybrid approach combining fuzzy sets, decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was developed to analyze the causality of risks, explore critical risks and reveal the risk transmission paths. The quantitative analysis process was implemented in MATLAB.

The results show that government decision-making risk, government credit risk, government supervision behavior risk, legal and policy risk, revenue and cost risk and management capacity risk are the critical risks of PPP WTE incineration projects in China. These critical risks are at different levels in the risk hierarchy and often trigger other risks.

Currently, there is a lack of exploration on the interaction between the risks of PPP WTE incineration projects. This study fills this gap by examining the key risks and risk transfer pathways of PPP WTE incineration projects from the perspective of risk interactions. The findings can help the public and private sectors to systematically understand the risks in PPP WTE incineration projects, thus enabling them to identify the risks that need to be focused on when making decisions and to optimize risk prevention strategies. The proposed hybrid approach can offer methodological ideas for risk analysis of other types of PPP projects.

]]>
Risk analysis of public-private partnership waste-to-energy incineration projects in China: a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0546Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-01© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMin ChengLin LiuXiaotong ChengLi TaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-0110.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0546https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0546/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Job satisfaction in green construction projects: antecedent roles of green work climate, pro-environmental construction practice and green human capitalhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0548/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestJob satisfaction (JS) of construction workers is important in determining the level of green construction project performance. Despite the importance of construction workers' JS in actualizing green construction projects' objectives, insufficient consideration has been accorded in green construction studies. This study aims to determine the link between green human capital (GHC), pro-environmental construction practice (PCP), green work climate (GWC) and JS. Precisely, the purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating role of GWC on the GHC and PCP relationship while analysing the moderating effect of GWC on the relationship between PCP and JS. This research's data were collected through a survey questionnaire with 272 useable responses obtained. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique was used in the study's data analysis. The findings of this study indicate that GHC was positively related to PCP; GWC had a significant mediating effect on the GHC–PCP relationship; PCP had a significant positive effect on JS; and GWC had a significant moderating effect on the PCP–JS relationship with high GWC yielding the greater effect. This study gives a clearer picture of how GHC can lead to the adoption of PCP through GWC and translate to JS, thus providing stakeholders with the required information on firm-based initiatives that can promote the needed green behaviour on the construction site. The originality of this study lies in its contribution to both theory and practice as it provides greater insight into PCP alongside its antecedents and outcomes as it relates to the JS of construction project/site managers.Job satisfaction in green construction projects: antecedent roles of green work climate, pro-environmental construction practice and green human capital
Hilary Omatule Onubi, Manuel Carpio, Ahmad Sanusi Hassan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Job satisfaction (JS) of construction workers is important in determining the level of green construction project performance. Despite the importance of construction workers' JS in actualizing green construction projects' objectives, insufficient consideration has been accorded in green construction studies. This study aims to determine the link between green human capital (GHC), pro-environmental construction practice (PCP), green work climate (GWC) and JS. Precisely, the purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating role of GWC on the GHC and PCP relationship while analysing the moderating effect of GWC on the relationship between PCP and JS.

This research's data were collected through a survey questionnaire with 272 useable responses obtained. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique was used in the study's data analysis.

The findings of this study indicate that GHC was positively related to PCP; GWC had a significant mediating effect on the GHC–PCP relationship; PCP had a significant positive effect on JS; and GWC had a significant moderating effect on the PCP–JS relationship with high GWC yielding the greater effect.

This study gives a clearer picture of how GHC can lead to the adoption of PCP through GWC and translate to JS, thus providing stakeholders with the required information on firm-based initiatives that can promote the needed green behaviour on the construction site.

The originality of this study lies in its contribution to both theory and practice as it provides greater insight into PCP alongside its antecedents and outcomes as it relates to the JS of construction project/site managers.

]]>
Job satisfaction in green construction projects: antecedent roles of green work climate, pro-environmental construction practice and green human capital10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0548Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-23© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedHilary Omatule OnubiManuel CarpioAhmad Sanusi HassanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2310.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0548https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0548/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Benchmarking of construction projects performance for comparative assessment and performance improvement: a statistical quantitative approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0552/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe exact process of construction projects performance assessment and benchmarking still remains subjective relying on qualitative techniques, which does not allow stakeholders to address the issues and the drawbacks of their respective projects as effectively as possible for performance improvement purposes. Hence, this research aims to establish a unified project performance score (PPS) for assessing and comparing projects performance. Data were collected from Construction Industry Institute (CII) members and through University of Wisconsin active research projects. Exploratory data analysis was done to investigate the calculated performance metrics and the collected data characteristics. Data were converted into six performance metrics which were used as the independent variables in creating the PPS model. Logistic regression model was developed to generate the unified PPS equation in order to explain the variables that significantly affect construction projects successful post-completion performance. The PPS model was then applied on the collected dataset to benchmark projects in terms of project delivery systems, compensation types and project types in order to showcase the PPS capabilities and possible applications. The model revealed that construction cost and schedule growth are the most important metrics in assessing projects performance, while RFIs’ processing time and change orders per million dollars were the features with the least effect on the PPS value. The authors found that integrated project delivery (IPD) and target value (TV) projects outperformed all other project delivery and compensation types. While, industrial projects showed the worst performance, as compared to commercial or institutional projects. The PPS model can be used to assess the performance of any pool of executed projects, and introducing a novel addition to the field of construction business analytics which is a supplementary tool to successful decision making and performance improvement. Additionally, the bidding selection system can be revolutionized from a cost-based to a performance based one using the PPS model to improve the outcomes of the buyout process.Benchmarking of construction projects performance for comparative assessment and performance improvement: a statistical quantitative approach
Eyad Aboseif, Awad S. Hanna
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The exact process of construction projects performance assessment and benchmarking still remains subjective relying on qualitative techniques, which does not allow stakeholders to address the issues and the drawbacks of their respective projects as effectively as possible for performance improvement purposes. Hence, this research aims to establish a unified project performance score (PPS) for assessing and comparing projects performance.

Data were collected from Construction Industry Institute (CII) members and through University of Wisconsin active research projects. Exploratory data analysis was done to investigate the calculated performance metrics and the collected data characteristics. Data were converted into six performance metrics which were used as the independent variables in creating the PPS model. Logistic regression model was developed to generate the unified PPS equation in order to explain the variables that significantly affect construction projects successful post-completion performance. The PPS model was then applied on the collected dataset to benchmark projects in terms of project delivery systems, compensation types and project types in order to showcase the PPS capabilities and possible applications.

The model revealed that construction cost and schedule growth are the most important metrics in assessing projects performance, while RFIs’ processing time and change orders per million dollars were the features with the least effect on the PPS value. The authors found that integrated project delivery (IPD) and target value (TV) projects outperformed all other project delivery and compensation types. While, industrial projects showed the worst performance, as compared to commercial or institutional projects.

The PPS model can be used to assess the performance of any pool of executed projects, and introducing a novel addition to the field of construction business analytics which is a supplementary tool to successful decision making and performance improvement. Additionally, the bidding selection system can be revolutionized from a cost-based to a performance based one using the PPS model to improve the outcomes of the buyout process.

]]>
Benchmarking of construction projects performance for comparative assessment and performance improvement: a statistical quantitative approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0552Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedEyad AboseifAwad S. HannaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2010.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0552https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0552/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How does collective moral judgment focus on the self-induce deviant behavior of construction workers? A multilevel investigationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0563/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe deviant behavior (DB) of construction workers has always been a troubling event in project management. Although scholars continue to search for the main causes of this behavior to curb it at the source, the authors know less about the role and contribution of the team. This study aims to uncover the mechanisms and conditions under which collective moral judgment focus on self (CMJS) effectively enhances DB. Adopting Chinese construction enterprises as samples, a hierarchical linear model (HLM) is used to test the results of the hypothesis. Moderated mediating effects are used to analyze the potential mechanisms and boundary conditions of DB. The results of the HLM analysis show that CMJS could directly and significantly induce DB, and moral disengagement (MD) plays a mediator role in this association. In addition, the positive relationship between MD and DB is stronger when performance-avoidance goal orientation (PaGO) or overqualification (Overq) is higher. The conditions and mechanisms that influence DB are not unique. Future study could examine the explanatory and weighting mechanisms of DB from other perspectives or to construct a framework and summarize the factors that may influence DB. This study provides a rich theoretical basis for the prevention and correction of construction workers' DB in Chinese construction firms from the perspective of CMJS. In addition, objective moral judgments contribute to guiding employees' moral cognitive processes and positive work. This study extends existing research on DB and advances the practical outcomes of construction project governance. It not only illustrates that CMJS has a direct impact on DB but also clarifies the mechanisms and conditions that predispose to the generation of DB, filling the research gap on construction workers' DB from cross-level mechanisms and also enriching the theoretical system for preventing this behavior.How does collective moral judgment focus on the self-induce deviant behavior of construction workers? A multilevel investigation
Ming Yuan, Xuetong Wang, Ziyao Zhang, Han Lin, Mingchuan Yu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The deviant behavior (DB) of construction workers has always been a troubling event in project management. Although scholars continue to search for the main causes of this behavior to curb it at the source, the authors know less about the role and contribution of the team. This study aims to uncover the mechanisms and conditions under which collective moral judgment focus on self (CMJS) effectively enhances DB.

Adopting Chinese construction enterprises as samples, a hierarchical linear model (HLM) is used to test the results of the hypothesis. Moderated mediating effects are used to analyze the potential mechanisms and boundary conditions of DB.

The results of the HLM analysis show that CMJS could directly and significantly induce DB, and moral disengagement (MD) plays a mediator role in this association. In addition, the positive relationship between MD and DB is stronger when performance-avoidance goal orientation (PaGO) or overqualification (Overq) is higher.

The conditions and mechanisms that influence DB are not unique. Future study could examine the explanatory and weighting mechanisms of DB from other perspectives or to construct a framework and summarize the factors that may influence DB.

This study provides a rich theoretical basis for the prevention and correction of construction workers' DB in Chinese construction firms from the perspective of CMJS. In addition, objective moral judgments contribute to guiding employees' moral cognitive processes and positive work.

This study extends existing research on DB and advances the practical outcomes of construction project governance. It not only illustrates that CMJS has a direct impact on DB but also clarifies the mechanisms and conditions that predispose to the generation of DB, filling the research gap on construction workers' DB from cross-level mechanisms and also enriching the theoretical system for preventing this behavior.

]]>
How does collective moral judgment focus on the self-induce deviant behavior of construction workers? A multilevel investigation10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0563Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMing YuanXuetong WangZiyao ZhangHan LinMingchuan YuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0610.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0563https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0563/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Understanding the effects of service innovation capability on firm performance in AEC industry: mediating role of business modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0573/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to examine whether service innovation capability can affect firm performance in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) context, and, if so, how. This study developed a theoretical framework illustrating the performance impacts of service innovation capability through the business model in the AEC sector. An empirical study was conducted to test the hypotheses using 374 valid questionnaires using structure equation model (SEM). The results verify that service innovation capability positively influences firm performance mediated by the business model. As to the direct effect, service innovation capability is positively associated with firm performance. This study highlights how service innovation capability affects performance and reveals the underlying mechanism.Understanding the effects of service innovation capability on firm performance in AEC industry: mediating role of business model
Xiaoying Tang, Mengjun Wang, Hui Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to examine whether service innovation capability can affect firm performance in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) context, and, if so, how.

This study developed a theoretical framework illustrating the performance impacts of service innovation capability through the business model in the AEC sector. An empirical study was conducted to test the hypotheses using 374 valid questionnaires using structure equation model (SEM).

The results verify that service innovation capability positively influences firm performance mediated by the business model. As to the direct effect, service innovation capability is positively associated with firm performance.

This study highlights how service innovation capability affects performance and reveals the underlying mechanism.

]]>
Understanding the effects of service innovation capability on firm performance in AEC industry: mediating role of business model10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0573Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoying TangMengjun WangHui LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1210.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0573https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0573/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Effect of public–private partnership features on contractual complexity: evidence from Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0574/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestA public–private partnership (PPP) is an agreement between the government and private investors to deliver long-term public services. The efficiency of PPP projects depends on PPP contracts stipulating contractual parties' corresponding responsibilities and rights to deal with relational and performance risks. Although more complex contracts provide more remedies for mitigating ex-post transaction costs, they also result in the increased ex ante transaction costs associated with contract writing. Thus, contractual complexity is a design choice that can reduce the overall contract transaction costs. Using 365 transportation PPP projects in China from 2010 to 2019, this study applies the Poisson regression model to examine the effects of payment mechanisms, ownership by investors and equity structure on contractual complexity. PPP contracts have control and coordination functions with unique determinants. Parties in the government-pay mechanism are more likely to negotiate coordination provisions, which results in greater contractual complexity. PPP projects with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have less contractual complexity in terms of both two functions of provisions, whereas the equity structure has no impact on contractual complexity. These findings provide a nuanced understanding of how various contractual provisions are combined to perform control or coordination functions and make managerial recommendations to parties involved in PPP projects.Effect of public–private partnership features on contractual complexity: evidence from China
Lu Zhang, Lei Shi, Li Ma
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

A public–private partnership (PPP) is an agreement between the government and private investors to deliver long-term public services. The efficiency of PPP projects depends on PPP contracts stipulating contractual parties' corresponding responsibilities and rights to deal with relational and performance risks. Although more complex contracts provide more remedies for mitigating ex-post transaction costs, they also result in the increased ex ante transaction costs associated with contract writing. Thus, contractual complexity is a design choice that can reduce the overall contract transaction costs.

Using 365 transportation PPP projects in China from 2010 to 2019, this study applies the Poisson regression model to examine the effects of payment mechanisms, ownership by investors and equity structure on contractual complexity.

PPP contracts have control and coordination functions with unique determinants. Parties in the government-pay mechanism are more likely to negotiate coordination provisions, which results in greater contractual complexity. PPP projects with state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have less contractual complexity in terms of both two functions of provisions, whereas the equity structure has no impact on contractual complexity.

These findings provide a nuanced understanding of how various contractual provisions are combined to perform control or coordination functions and make managerial recommendations to parties involved in PPP projects.

]]>
Effect of public–private partnership features on contractual complexity: evidence from China10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0574Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLu ZhangLei ShiLi MaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2810.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0574https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0574/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Transportation infrastructure network optimisation based on computer simulation using Sichuan Province, China as an examplehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0592/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to propose a method that can calculate the transportation infrastructure network service capacity enhancement given by planned transportation infrastructure projects construction. Managers can sequence projects more rationally to maximize the construction effectiveness of infrastructure investments. This paper designed a computational network simulation software to generate topological networks based on established rules. Based on the topological networks, the software simulated the movement path of users and calculated the average travel time. This software allows the adjustment of parameters to suit different research objectives. The average travel time is used as an evaluation index to determine the most appropriate construction sequence. In this paper, the transportation infrastructure network of Sichuan Province in China was used to demonstrate this software. The average travel time of the existing transportation network in Sichuan Province was calculated as 211 min using this software. The high-speed railways from Leshan to Xichang and from Xichang to Yibin had the greatest influence on shortening the average travel time. This paper also measured the changes in the average travel time under two strategies: shortening the maximum and minimum priorities. All the transportation network optimisation plans for Sichuan Province will be somewhere between these two strategies. The contribution of this research are three aspects: First, a complex network analysis method that can take into account the differences of node elements is proposed. Second, it provides an effective tool for decision makers to plan transportation infrastructure construction. Third, the construction sequence of transportation infrastructure development plan can effect the infrastructure investment effectiveness.Transportation infrastructure network optimisation based on computer simulation using Sichuan Province, China as an example
Jeen Guo, Pengcheng Xiang, Qiqi Liu, Yun Luo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to propose a method that can calculate the transportation infrastructure network service capacity enhancement given by planned transportation infrastructure projects construction. Managers can sequence projects more rationally to maximize the construction effectiveness of infrastructure investments.

This paper designed a computational network simulation software to generate topological networks based on established rules. Based on the topological networks, the software simulated the movement path of users and calculated the average travel time. This software allows the adjustment of parameters to suit different research objectives. The average travel time is used as an evaluation index to determine the most appropriate construction sequence.

In this paper, the transportation infrastructure network of Sichuan Province in China was used to demonstrate this software. The average travel time of the existing transportation network in Sichuan Province was calculated as 211 min using this software. The high-speed railways from Leshan to Xichang and from Xichang to Yibin had the greatest influence on shortening the average travel time. This paper also measured the changes in the average travel time under two strategies: shortening the maximum and minimum priorities. All the transportation network optimisation plans for Sichuan Province will be somewhere between these two strategies.

The contribution of this research are three aspects: First, a complex network analysis method that can take into account the differences of node elements is proposed. Second, it provides an effective tool for decision makers to plan transportation infrastructure construction. Third, the construction sequence of transportation infrastructure development plan can effect the infrastructure investment effectiveness.

]]>
Transportation infrastructure network optimisation based on computer simulation using Sichuan Province, China as an example10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0592Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJeen GuoPengcheng XiangQiqi LiuYun LuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1110.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0592https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0592/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Digital twin application in heritage facilities management: systematic literature review and future development directionshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0596/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper aims to investigate the theoretical and practical links between digital twin (DT) application in heritage facilities management (HFM) from a life cycle management perspective and to signpost the future development directions of DT in HFM. This state-of-the-art review was conducted using a systematic literature review method. Inclusive and exclusive criteria were identified and used to retrieve relevant literature from renowned literature databases. Shortlisted publications were analysed using the VOSviewer software and then critically reviewed to reveal the status quo of research in the subject area. The review results show that DT has been mainly adopted to support decision-making on conservation approach and method selection, performance monitoring and prediction, maintenance strategies design and development, and energy evaluation and management. Although many researchers attempted to develop DT models for part of a heritage building at component or system level and test the models using real-life cases, their works were constrained by availability of empirical data. Furthermore, data capture approaches, data acquisition methods and modelling with multi-source data are found to be the existing challenges of DT application in HFM. In a broader sense, this study contributes to the field of engineering, construction and architectural management by providing an overview of how DT has been applied to support management activities throughout the building life cycle. For the HFM practice, a DT-cum-heritage building information modelling (HBIM) framework was developed to illustrate how DT can be integrated with HBIM to facilitate future DT application in HFM. The overall implication of this study is that it reveals the potential of heritage DT in facilitating HFM in the urban development context.Digital twin application in heritage facilities management: systematic literature review and future development directions
Huiying (Cynthia) Hou, Joseph H.K. Lai, Hao Wu, Tong Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper aims to investigate the theoretical and practical links between digital twin (DT) application in heritage facilities management (HFM) from a life cycle management perspective and to signpost the future development directions of DT in HFM.

This state-of-the-art review was conducted using a systematic literature review method. Inclusive and exclusive criteria were identified and used to retrieve relevant literature from renowned literature databases. Shortlisted publications were analysed using the VOSviewer software and then critically reviewed to reveal the status quo of research in the subject area.

The review results show that DT has been mainly adopted to support decision-making on conservation approach and method selection, performance monitoring and prediction, maintenance strategies design and development, and energy evaluation and management. Although many researchers attempted to develop DT models for part of a heritage building at component or system level and test the models using real-life cases, their works were constrained by availability of empirical data. Furthermore, data capture approaches, data acquisition methods and modelling with multi-source data are found to be the existing challenges of DT application in HFM.

In a broader sense, this study contributes to the field of engineering, construction and architectural management by providing an overview of how DT has been applied to support management activities throughout the building life cycle. For the HFM practice, a DT-cum-heritage building information modelling (HBIM) framework was developed to illustrate how DT can be integrated with HBIM to facilitate future DT application in HFM. The overall implication of this study is that it reveals the potential of heritage DT in facilitating HFM in the urban development context.

]]>
Digital twin application in heritage facilities management: systematic literature review and future development directions10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0596Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHuiying (Cynthia) HouJoseph H.K. LaiHao WuTong WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2810.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0596https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0596/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Solution of discrete time–cost trade-off problem with adaptive search domainhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0601/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestExact solution of time–cost trade-off problem (TCTP) by the state-of-the-art meta-heuristic algorithms can be obtained for small- and medium-scale problems, while satisfactory results cannot be obtained for large construction projects. In this study, a hybrid heuristic meta-heuristic algorithm that adapts the search domain is developed to solve the large-scale discrete TCTP more efficiently. Minimum cost slope–based heuristic network analysis algorithm (NAA), which eliminates the unfeasible search domain, is embedded into differential evolution meta-heuristic algorithm. Heuristic NAA narrows the search domain at the initial phase of the optimization. Moreover, activities with float durations higher than the predetermined threshold value are eliminated and then the meta-heuristic algorithm starts and searches the global optimum through the narrowed search space. However, narrowing the search space may increase the probability of obtaining a local optimum. Therefore, adaptive search domain approach is employed to make reintroduction of the eliminated activities to the design variable set possible, which reduces the possibility of converging into local minima. The developed algorithm is compared with plain meta-heuristic algorithm with two separate analyses. In the first analysis, both algorithms have the same computational demand, and in the latter analysis, the meta-heuristic algorithm has fivefold computational demand. The tests on case study problems reveal that the developed algorithm presents lower total project costs according to the dependent t-test for paired samples with α = 0.0005. In this study, TCTP is solved without considering quality or restrictions on the resources. The proposed method enables to adapt the number of parameters, that is, the search domain and provides the opportunity of obtaining significant improvements on the meta-heuristic algorithms for other engineering optimization problems, which is the theoretical contribution of this study. The proposed approach reduces the total construction cost of the large-scale projects, which can be the practical benefit of this study.Solution of discrete time–cost trade-off problem with adaptive search domain
Önder Halis Bettemir, M. Talat Birgonul
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Exact solution of time–cost trade-off problem (TCTP) by the state-of-the-art meta-heuristic algorithms can be obtained for small- and medium-scale problems, while satisfactory results cannot be obtained for large construction projects. In this study, a hybrid heuristic meta-heuristic algorithm that adapts the search domain is developed to solve the large-scale discrete TCTP more efficiently.

Minimum cost slope–based heuristic network analysis algorithm (NAA), which eliminates the unfeasible search domain, is embedded into differential evolution meta-heuristic algorithm. Heuristic NAA narrows the search domain at the initial phase of the optimization. Moreover, activities with float durations higher than the predetermined threshold value are eliminated and then the meta-heuristic algorithm starts and searches the global optimum through the narrowed search space. However, narrowing the search space may increase the probability of obtaining a local optimum. Therefore, adaptive search domain approach is employed to make reintroduction of the eliminated activities to the design variable set possible, which reduces the possibility of converging into local minima.

The developed algorithm is compared with plain meta-heuristic algorithm with two separate analyses. In the first analysis, both algorithms have the same computational demand, and in the latter analysis, the meta-heuristic algorithm has fivefold computational demand. The tests on case study problems reveal that the developed algorithm presents lower total project costs according to the dependent t-test for paired samples with α = 0.0005.

In this study, TCTP is solved without considering quality or restrictions on the resources.

The proposed method enables to adapt the number of parameters, that is, the search domain and provides the opportunity of obtaining significant improvements on the meta-heuristic algorithms for other engineering optimization problems, which is the theoretical contribution of this study. The proposed approach reduces the total construction cost of the large-scale projects, which can be the practical benefit of this study.

]]>
Solution of discrete time–cost trade-off problem with adaptive search domain10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0601Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedÖnder Halis BettemirM. Talat BirgonulEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-0810.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0601https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0601/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring the metro construction accidents and causations for improving safety management based on data mining and network theoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0603/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to identify the causative factors of metro construction safety accidents, analyze the correlation between accidents and causative factors and assist in developing safety management strategies for improving safety performance in the context of the Chinese construction industry. To achieve these objectives, 13 types and 48 causations were determined based on 274 construction safety accidents in China. Then, 204 cause-and-effect relationships among accidents and causations were identified based on data mining. Next, network theory was employed to develop and analyze the metro construction accident causation network (MCACN). The topological characteristics of MCACN were obtained, it is both a small-world network and a scale-free network. Controlling critical causative factors can effectively control the occurrence of metro construction accidents. Degree centrality strategy is better than closeness centrality strategy and betweenness centrality strategy. In practice, it is very difficult to quantitatively identify and determine the importance of different accidents and causative factors. The weights of nodes and edges are failed to be assigned when constructing MCACN. This study provides a theoretical basis and feasible management reference for construction enterprises in China to control construction risks and reduce safety accidents. More safety resources should be allocated to control critical risks. It is recommended that safety managers implement degree centrality strategy when making safety-related decisions. This paper establishes the MCACN model based on data mining and network theory, identifies the properties and clarifies the mechanism of metro construction accidents and causations.Exploring the metro construction accidents and causations for improving safety management based on data mining and network theory
Yongliang Deng, Zedong Liu, Liangliang Song, Guodong Ni, Na Xu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to identify the causative factors of metro construction safety accidents, analyze the correlation between accidents and causative factors and assist in developing safety management strategies for improving safety performance in the context of the Chinese construction industry.

To achieve these objectives, 13 types and 48 causations were determined based on 274 construction safety accidents in China. Then, 204 cause-and-effect relationships among accidents and causations were identified based on data mining. Next, network theory was employed to develop and analyze the metro construction accident causation network (MCACN).

The topological characteristics of MCACN were obtained, it is both a small-world network and a scale-free network. Controlling critical causative factors can effectively control the occurrence of metro construction accidents. Degree centrality strategy is better than closeness centrality strategy and betweenness centrality strategy.

In practice, it is very difficult to quantitatively identify and determine the importance of different accidents and causative factors. The weights of nodes and edges are failed to be assigned when constructing MCACN.

This study provides a theoretical basis and feasible management reference for construction enterprises in China to control construction risks and reduce safety accidents. More safety resources should be allocated to control critical risks. It is recommended that safety managers implement degree centrality strategy when making safety-related decisions.

This paper establishes the MCACN model based on data mining and network theory, identifies the properties and clarifies the mechanism of metro construction accidents and causations.

]]>
Exploring the metro construction accidents and causations for improving safety management based on data mining and network theory10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0603Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-13© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYongliang DengZedong LiuLiangliang SongGuodong NiNa XuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1310.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0603https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2022-0603/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
How to predict the entry mode of international construction contractor: a case-based reasoning approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0555/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aimed to identify a specific taxonomy of entry modes for international construction contractors and to develop a decision-making mechanism based on case-based reasoning (CBR) to facilitate the selection of the most suitable entry modes. According to the experience orientation of the construction industry, a CBR entry mode decision model was established, and based on successful historical cases, a two-step refinement process was carried out to identify similar situations. Then the validity of the model is proved by case analysis. This study identified an entry mode taxonomy for international construction contractors (ICCs) and explored their decision-making mechanisms. First, a two-dimension model of entry mode for ICCs was constructed from ownership and value chain dimensions; seven common ICC entry modes were identified and ranked according to market commitment. Secondly, this study reveals the impact mechanism of the ICC entry mode from two aspects: the external environment and enterprise characteristics. Accordingly, an entry mode decision model is established. Firstly, sorting out the categories of entry mode in the construction field, which provide an entry mode list for ICCs to select. Secondly, revealing the impact mechanism of ICC entry mode, which proposes a systematic decision-making system for the selection of ICC entry mode. Thirdly, constructing a CBR entry mode decision-making model from an empirical perspective, which offers tool support and reduces transaction costs in the decision-making process. The study on entry modes for ICCs is still in the preliminary exploratory stage. The authors investigate the entry mode categories and decision-making mechanisms for ICCs based on Uppsala internationalization process theory. It widens the applied scope of Uppsala and promotes cross-disciplinary integration. In addition, the authors creatively propose a two-stage retrieval mechanism in the CBR model, which considers the order of decision variables. It refines the influence path of the decision variables on ICCs' entry mode.How to predict the entry mode of international construction contractor: a case-based reasoning approach
Huiling Li, Wenya Yuan, Jianzhong Xu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aimed to identify a specific taxonomy of entry modes for international construction contractors and to develop a decision-making mechanism based on case-based reasoning (CBR) to facilitate the selection of the most suitable entry modes.

According to the experience orientation of the construction industry, a CBR entry mode decision model was established, and based on successful historical cases, a two-step refinement process was carried out to identify similar situations. Then the validity of the model is proved by case analysis.

This study identified an entry mode taxonomy for international construction contractors (ICCs) and explored their decision-making mechanisms. First, a two-dimension model of entry mode for ICCs was constructed from ownership and value chain dimensions; seven common ICC entry modes were identified and ranked according to market commitment. Secondly, this study reveals the impact mechanism of the ICC entry mode from two aspects: the external environment and enterprise characteristics. Accordingly, an entry mode decision model is established.

Firstly, sorting out the categories of entry mode in the construction field, which provide an entry mode list for ICCs to select. Secondly, revealing the impact mechanism of ICC entry mode, which proposes a systematic decision-making system for the selection of ICC entry mode. Thirdly, constructing a CBR entry mode decision-making model from an empirical perspective, which offers tool support and reduces transaction costs in the decision-making process.

The study on entry modes for ICCs is still in the preliminary exploratory stage. The authors investigate the entry mode categories and decision-making mechanisms for ICCs based on Uppsala internationalization process theory. It widens the applied scope of Uppsala and promotes cross-disciplinary integration. In addition, the authors creatively propose a two-stage retrieval mechanism in the CBR model, which considers the order of decision variables. It refines the influence path of the decision variables on ICCs' entry mode.

]]>
How to predict the entry mode of international construction contractor: a case-based reasoning approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0555Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHuiling LiWenya YuanJianzhong XuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1510.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0555https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0555/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A fuzzy model for financial performance measurement of real estate investment trusts: comparison of investment areashttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0570/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to present the financial performance of companies and investment areas in the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry. A fuzzy model for financial performance measurement (FM-FPM) was proposed through the collaboration of fuzzy axiomatic design (FAD) and fuzzy entropy weighting (FEW). For the data, financial ratios were used, and their importance and functional requirements were collected via a questionnaire survey. The FM-FPM is a beneficial model to be used for a REIT industry based on the structured procedures of FAD and FEW techniques. It can be suitable to regularly evaluate the performance of REITs and their investment areas in financial means, especially in today’s turbulent business environment. The Turkish market that was considered to show the practical applicability of the FM-FPM demonstrated specifically that diversified real estate was found to rank first, followed by mixed-buildings, warehouses, shopping malls and hotels, respectively. The FM-FPM can be employed for REIT industries in other countries and adapted to different industries. However, more respondents or a different set of criteria might lead to different outputs. The FM-FPM may guide REIT managers and investors while making their decisions and controlling the performance of REITs and investment areas. The FM-FPM may encourage low- and middle-income investors to make good use of their savings. The research is first (1) to offer a FPM model in order to determine investable areas in a REIT industry and (2) to employ multiple criteria decision-making tools in order to measure the financial performance of individual companies and investment areas in a REIT industry.A fuzzy model for financial performance measurement of real estate investment trusts: comparison of investment areas
Oguzhan Kazanci, Serdar Ulubeyli, Emrah Dogan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to present the financial performance of companies and investment areas in the real estate investment trust (REIT) industry.

A fuzzy model for financial performance measurement (FM-FPM) was proposed through the collaboration of fuzzy axiomatic design (FAD) and fuzzy entropy weighting (FEW). For the data, financial ratios were used, and their importance and functional requirements were collected via a questionnaire survey.

The FM-FPM is a beneficial model to be used for a REIT industry based on the structured procedures of FAD and FEW techniques. It can be suitable to regularly evaluate the performance of REITs and their investment areas in financial means, especially in today’s turbulent business environment. The Turkish market that was considered to show the practical applicability of the FM-FPM demonstrated specifically that diversified real estate was found to rank first, followed by mixed-buildings, warehouses, shopping malls and hotels, respectively.

The FM-FPM can be employed for REIT industries in other countries and adapted to different industries. However, more respondents or a different set of criteria might lead to different outputs.

The FM-FPM may guide REIT managers and investors while making their decisions and controlling the performance of REITs and investment areas.

The FM-FPM may encourage low- and middle-income investors to make good use of their savings.

The research is first (1) to offer a FPM model in order to determine investable areas in a REIT industry and (2) to employ multiple criteria decision-making tools in order to measure the financial performance of individual companies and investment areas in a REIT industry.

]]>
A fuzzy model for financial performance measurement of real estate investment trusts: comparison of investment areas10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0570Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedOguzhan KazanciSerdar UlubeyliEmrah DoganEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2610.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0570https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0570/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Occupational health risk assessment of PC production-caused pollution based on damage assessment and cyclic mitigation modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0581/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe occupational health risk associated with the production of prefabricated concrete components is often overlooked. This paper will use a damage assessment and cyclic mitigation (DACM) model to provide individualized exposure risk assessment and corresponding mitigation management measures for workers who are being exposed. The DACM model is proposed based on the concept of life cycle assessment (LCA). The model uses Monte-Carlo simulation for uncertainty risk assessment, followed by quantitative damage assessment using disability-adjusted life year (DALY). Lastly, sensitivity analysis is used to identify the parameters with the greatest impact on health risks. The results show that the dust concentration is centered around the mean, and the fitting results are close to normal distribution, so the mean value can be used to carry out the calculation of risk. However, calculations using the DACM model revealed that there are still some work areas at risk. DALY damage is most severe in concrete production area. Meanwhile, the inhalation rate (IR), exposure duration (ED), exposure frequency (EF) and average exposure time (AT) showed greater impacts based on the sensitivity analysis. Based on the comparison, the DACM model can determine that the potential occupational health risk of prefabricated concrete component (PC) factory and the risk is less than that of on-site construction. It synthesizes field research and simulation to form the entire assessment process into a case-base system with the depth of the cycle, which allows the model to be continuously adjusted to reduce the occupational health damage caused by production pollution exposure.Occupational health risk assessment of PC production-caused pollution based on damage assessment and cyclic mitigation model
Zhiyu Dong, Ruize Qin, Ping Zou, Xin Yao, Peng Cui, Fan Zhang, Yizhou Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The occupational health risk associated with the production of prefabricated concrete components is often overlooked. This paper will use a damage assessment and cyclic mitigation (DACM) model to provide individualized exposure risk assessment and corresponding mitigation management measures for workers who are being exposed.

The DACM model is proposed based on the concept of life cycle assessment (LCA). The model uses Monte-Carlo simulation for uncertainty risk assessment, followed by quantitative damage assessment using disability-adjusted life year (DALY). Lastly, sensitivity analysis is used to identify the parameters with the greatest impact on health risks.

The results show that the dust concentration is centered around the mean, and the fitting results are close to normal distribution, so the mean value can be used to carry out the calculation of risk. However, calculations using the DACM model revealed that there are still some work areas at risk. DALY damage is most severe in concrete production area. Meanwhile, the inhalation rate (IR), exposure duration (ED), exposure frequency (EF) and average exposure time (AT) showed greater impacts based on the sensitivity analysis.

Based on the comparison, the DACM model can determine that the potential occupational health risk of prefabricated concrete component (PC) factory and the risk is less than that of on-site construction. It synthesizes field research and simulation to form the entire assessment process into a case-base system with the depth of the cycle, which allows the model to be continuously adjusted to reduce the occupational health damage caused by production pollution exposure.

]]>
Occupational health risk assessment of PC production-caused pollution based on damage assessment and cyclic mitigation model10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0581Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-27© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhiyu DongRuize QinPing ZouXin YaoPeng CuiFan ZhangYizhou YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2710.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0581https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0581/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effect of augmented reality applied to learning process with different learning styles in structural engineering educationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0596/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to scrutinize the influence of individual learning styles on the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR)-based learning in structural engineering. There has been a lack of research examining the correlation between learning efficiency and learning style, particularly in the context of quantitatively assessing the efficacy of AR in structural engineering education. Using Kolb’s experiential learning theory (ELT), a model that emphasizes learning through experience, students from the construction management department are assigned four learning styles (converging, assimilating, diverging and accommodating). Performance data were gathered, appraised, and compared through the three dimensions from the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) survey model across four categories of Kolb’s learning styles in both text-graph (TG)-based and AR-based learning settings. The findings indicate that AR-based materials positively impact structural engineering education by enhancing overall learning performance more than TG-based materials. It is also found that the learning style has a profound influence on learning effectiveness, with AR technology markedly improving the information retrieval processes, particularly for converging and assimilating learners, then diverging learners, with a less significant impact on accommodating learners. These results corroborate prior research analyzing learners' outcomes with hypermedia and informational learning systems. It was found that learners with an “abstract” approach (convergers and assimilators) outperform those with a “concrete” approach (divergers and accommodators). This research emphasizes the importance of considering learning styles before integrating technologies into civil engineering education, thereby assisting software developers and educational institutions in creating more effective teaching materials tailored to specific learning styles.The effect of augmented reality applied to learning process with different learning styles in structural engineering education
Pengkun Liu, Zhewen Yang, Jing Huang, Ting-Kwei Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to scrutinize the influence of individual learning styles on the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR)-based learning in structural engineering. There has been a lack of research examining the correlation between learning efficiency and learning style, particularly in the context of quantitatively assessing the efficacy of AR in structural engineering education.

Using Kolb’s experiential learning theory (ELT), a model that emphasizes learning through experience, students from the construction management department are assigned four learning styles (converging, assimilating, diverging and accommodating). Performance data were gathered, appraised, and compared through the three dimensions from the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) survey model across four categories of Kolb’s learning styles in both text-graph (TG)-based and AR-based learning settings.

The findings indicate that AR-based materials positively impact structural engineering education by enhancing overall learning performance more than TG-based materials. It is also found that the learning style has a profound influence on learning effectiveness, with AR technology markedly improving the information retrieval processes, particularly for converging and assimilating learners, then diverging learners, with a less significant impact on accommodating learners.

These results corroborate prior research analyzing learners' outcomes with hypermedia and informational learning systems. It was found that learners with an “abstract” approach (convergers and assimilators) outperform those with a “concrete” approach (divergers and accommodators). This research emphasizes the importance of considering learning styles before integrating technologies into civil engineering education, thereby assisting software developers and educational institutions in creating more effective teaching materials tailored to specific learning styles.

]]>
The effect of augmented reality applied to learning process with different learning styles in structural engineering education10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0596Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-14© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedPengkun LiuZhewen YangJing HuangTing-Kwei WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1410.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0596https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0596/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessment of the impacts of the life cycle of construction waste on human health: lessons from developing countrieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0610/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this research is to address the existing gap in the study of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) by focusing on its impact on human health throughout the entire life cycle. And this research provides a comprehensive assessment model that incorporates the release of gaseous pollutants and particulate matter during the whole life cycle of C&DW, thereby contributing to a more holistic understanding of its impact on human health. The research was conducted in two stages. Firstly, the quantitative model framework of pollutants emitted by C&DW was established. Three types of pollutants were considered, namely nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and inhalable particulate matter (PM10). Second, disability-adjusted life year (DALY) and willingness to pay (WTP) assessments were used to provide a monetary quantified health impact for pollutants released by C&DW. The results show that the WTP value of PM10 is the highest among all pollutants and 8.68E+07 dollars/a, while the WTP value in the disposal stage accounts for the largest proportion compared to the generation and transportation stage. These findings emphasize the importance of PM10 and C&DW treatment stage for pollutant treatment. The results of this study are of great significance for the management department to optimize the construction management scheme to reduce the total amount of pollutants produced by C&DW and its harm to human health. Meanwhile, this study fills the gap in existing research on the impact assessment of C&DW on human health throughout the whole life cycle, and provides reference and basis for future research and policy formulation.Assessment of the impacts of the life cycle of construction waste on human health: lessons from developing countries
Li Wang, Yanhong Lv, Tao Wang, Shuting Wan, Yanling Ye
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this research is to address the existing gap in the study of construction and demolition waste (C&DW) by focusing on its impact on human health throughout the entire life cycle. And this research provides a comprehensive assessment model that incorporates the release of gaseous pollutants and particulate matter during the whole life cycle of C&DW, thereby contributing to a more holistic understanding of its impact on human health.

The research was conducted in two stages. Firstly, the quantitative model framework of pollutants emitted by C&DW was established. Three types of pollutants were considered, namely nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and inhalable particulate matter (PM10). Second, disability-adjusted life year (DALY) and willingness to pay (WTP) assessments were used to provide a monetary quantified health impact for pollutants released by C&DW.

The results show that the WTP value of PM10 is the highest among all pollutants and 8.68E+07 dollars/a, while the WTP value in the disposal stage accounts for the largest proportion compared to the generation and transportation stage. These findings emphasize the importance of PM10 and C&DW treatment stage for pollutant treatment.

The results of this study are of great significance for the management department to optimize the construction management scheme to reduce the total amount of pollutants produced by C&DW and its harm to human health. Meanwhile, this study fills the gap in existing research on the impact assessment of C&DW on human health throughout the whole life cycle, and provides reference and basis for future research and policy formulation.

]]>
Assessment of the impacts of the life cycle of construction waste on human health: lessons from developing countries10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0610Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLi WangYanhong LvTao WangShuting WanYanling YeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2910.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0610https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0610/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A transformer-based deep learning method for automatic pixel-level crack detection and feature quantificationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0613/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCrack detection of pavement is a critical task in the periodic survey. Efficient, effective and consistent tracking of the road conditions by identifying and locating crack contributes to establishing an appropriate road maintenance and repair strategy from the promptly informed managers but still remaining a significant challenge. This research seeks to propose practical solutions for targeting the automatic crack detection from images with efficient productivity and cost-effectiveness, thereby improving the pavement performance. This research applies a novel deep learning method named TransUnet for crack detection, which is structured based on Transformer, combined with convolutional neural networks as encoder by leveraging a global self-attention mechanism to better extract features for enhancing automatic identification. Afterward, the detected cracks are used to quantify morphological features from five indicators, such as length, mean width, maximum width, area and ratio. Those analyses can provide valuable information for engineers to assess the pavement condition with efficient productivity. In the training process, the TransUnet is fed by a crack dataset generated by the data augmentation with a resolution of 224 × 224 pixels. Subsequently, a test set containing 80 new images is used for crack detection task based on the best selected TransUnet with a learning rate of 0.01 and a batch size of 1, achieving an accuracy of 0.8927, a precision of 0.8813, a recall of 0.8904, an F1-measure and dice of 0.8813, and a Mean Intersection over Union of 0.8082, respectively. Comparisons with several state-of-the-art methods indicate that the developed approach in this research outperforms with greater efficiency and higher reliability. The developed approach combines TransUnet with an integrated quantification algorithm for crack detection and quantification, performing excellently in terms of comparisons and evaluation metrics, which can provide solutions with potentially serving as the basis for an automated, cost-effective pavement condition assessment scheme.A transformer-based deep learning method for automatic pixel-level crack detection and feature quantification
Ankang Ji, Xiaolong Xue, Limao Zhang, Xiaowei Luo, Qingpeng Man
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Crack detection of pavement is a critical task in the periodic survey. Efficient, effective and consistent tracking of the road conditions by identifying and locating crack contributes to establishing an appropriate road maintenance and repair strategy from the promptly informed managers but still remaining a significant challenge. This research seeks to propose practical solutions for targeting the automatic crack detection from images with efficient productivity and cost-effectiveness, thereby improving the pavement performance.

This research applies a novel deep learning method named TransUnet for crack detection, which is structured based on Transformer, combined with convolutional neural networks as encoder by leveraging a global self-attention mechanism to better extract features for enhancing automatic identification. Afterward, the detected cracks are used to quantify morphological features from five indicators, such as length, mean width, maximum width, area and ratio. Those analyses can provide valuable information for engineers to assess the pavement condition with efficient productivity.

In the training process, the TransUnet is fed by a crack dataset generated by the data augmentation with a resolution of 224 × 224 pixels. Subsequently, a test set containing 80 new images is used for crack detection task based on the best selected TransUnet with a learning rate of 0.01 and a batch size of 1, achieving an accuracy of 0.8927, a precision of 0.8813, a recall of 0.8904, an F1-measure and dice of 0.8813, and a Mean Intersection over Union of 0.8082, respectively. Comparisons with several state-of-the-art methods indicate that the developed approach in this research outperforms with greater efficiency and higher reliability.

The developed approach combines TransUnet with an integrated quantification algorithm for crack detection and quantification, performing excellently in terms of comparisons and evaluation metrics, which can provide solutions with potentially serving as the basis for an automated, cost-effective pavement condition assessment scheme.

]]>
A transformer-based deep learning method for automatic pixel-level crack detection and feature quantification10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0613Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAnkang JiXiaolong XueLimao ZhangXiaowei LuoQingpeng ManEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2810.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0613https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0613/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
What affects the corporate social responsibility practices of Chinese international contractors considering dynamic interactions? A hybrid structural equation modeling–fuzzy cognitive map approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0615/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCorporate social responsibility (CSR) practices frequently result in increased costs for Chinese international contractors (CICs), where profitability is the primary objective; therefore, internal corporate drivers and external pressures play a crucial role in encouraging them to engage in sustainable CSR practices. This study systematically examines the dynamic impact of internal and external stakeholders on the CSR practices of CICs. This study adopted a structural equation model (SEM) to identify and validate a correlation between stakeholders and CSR practices. Standardized causal coefficients estimated in SEM were used to construct a fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) model to illustrate the effect of stakeholders on CSR practices with linkage direction and weights. Predictive, diagnostic, and hybrid analyses were performed to dynamically model the variation in stakeholders on the evolution of CSR practices. The empirical results demonstrate that (1) employee participation in CSR has the greatest impact on CSR practices, followed by CSR strategies, partner and customer expectations, and finally government regulations. (2) In the early stage of CSR fulfillment, CSR strategies have the greatest influence on CSR practices; in the later stage of CSR fulfillment, employee participation in CSR has the greatest influence on CSR practices. (3) In the long run, the most effective and economical integrated interventions are those that address employee participation in CSR, partner expectations and customer expectations, and intervention in CSR strategies is needed if the level of CSR practice needs to be improved in the short term. This study contributes to the research on the influence mechanisms of CSR practices of CICs and systematically analyzes their dynamic influence on CSR practices of CICs from the perspective of stakeholders.What affects the corporate social responsibility practices of Chinese international contractors considering dynamic interactions? A hybrid structural equation modeling–fuzzy cognitive map approach
Xiaoxu Dang, Mengying Wang, Xiaopeng Deng, Hongtao Mao, Pengju He
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices frequently result in increased costs for Chinese international contractors (CICs), where profitability is the primary objective; therefore, internal corporate drivers and external pressures play a crucial role in encouraging them to engage in sustainable CSR practices. This study systematically examines the dynamic impact of internal and external stakeholders on the CSR practices of CICs.

This study adopted a structural equation model (SEM) to identify and validate a correlation between stakeholders and CSR practices. Standardized causal coefficients estimated in SEM were used to construct a fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) model to illustrate the effect of stakeholders on CSR practices with linkage direction and weights. Predictive, diagnostic, and hybrid analyses were performed to dynamically model the variation in stakeholders on the evolution of CSR practices.

The empirical results demonstrate that (1) employee participation in CSR has the greatest impact on CSR practices, followed by CSR strategies, partner and customer expectations, and finally government regulations. (2) In the early stage of CSR fulfillment, CSR strategies have the greatest influence on CSR practices; in the later stage of CSR fulfillment, employee participation in CSR has the greatest influence on CSR practices. (3) In the long run, the most effective and economical integrated interventions are those that address employee participation in CSR, partner expectations and customer expectations, and intervention in CSR strategies is needed if the level of CSR practice needs to be improved in the short term.

This study contributes to the research on the influence mechanisms of CSR practices of CICs and systematically analyzes their dynamic influence on CSR practices of CICs from the perspective of stakeholders.

]]>
What affects the corporate social responsibility practices of Chinese international contractors considering dynamic interactions? A hybrid structural equation modeling–fuzzy cognitive map approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0615Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaoxu DangMengying WangXiaopeng DengHongtao MaoPengju HeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2310.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0615https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0615/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessing project criticality in project portfolio: a vulnerability modeling approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0619/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAssessing project criticality in a project portfolio (PP) is of great practical significance to improve robustness from damage. While project criticality assessment has increased diversity in approaches, the understanding of vulnerable project impacts is still limited. To promote a better understanding of assessing project criticality, a vulnerability measurement model is constructed. First, integrating the tasks, projects and corresponding relationships among them, a project portfolio network (PPN) is constructed. Second, the project's vulnerability is measured by combining the topological structure and functional attributes. Third, project criticality is assessed by the vulnerability measurement results. Lastly, the proposed model is applied in a numerical example to illustrate its suitability and effectiveness. For academia, this study provides a novel perspective on project vulnerability measurement and expands project criticality assessment tools. For practitioners, the straightforward model provides an effective tool for assessing project criticality and contributes to enhancing project portfolio management (PPM). The impact of the task on the project is considered in this study. Topological structure and functional attributes are also integrated for measuring project vulnerability due to the impact of random attacks in an uncertain environment, providing a new perspective on the requirements of project criticality assessment and the measurement of project vulnerability.Assessing project criticality in project portfolio: a vulnerability modeling approach
Libiao Bai, Xiaoyan Xie, Yichen Sun, Xue Qu, Xiao Han
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Assessing project criticality in a project portfolio (PP) is of great practical significance to improve robustness from damage. While project criticality assessment has increased diversity in approaches, the understanding of vulnerable project impacts is still limited. To promote a better understanding of assessing project criticality, a vulnerability measurement model is constructed.

First, integrating the tasks, projects and corresponding relationships among them, a project portfolio network (PPN) is constructed. Second, the project's vulnerability is measured by combining the topological structure and functional attributes. Third, project criticality is assessed by the vulnerability measurement results. Lastly, the proposed model is applied in a numerical example to illustrate its suitability and effectiveness.

For academia, this study provides a novel perspective on project vulnerability measurement and expands project criticality assessment tools. For practitioners, the straightforward model provides an effective tool for assessing project criticality and contributes to enhancing project portfolio management (PPM).

The impact of the task on the project is considered in this study. Topological structure and functional attributes are also integrated for measuring project vulnerability due to the impact of random attacks in an uncertain environment, providing a new perspective on the requirements of project criticality assessment and the measurement of project vulnerability.

]]>
Assessing project criticality in project portfolio: a vulnerability modeling approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0619Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-29© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedLibiao BaiXiaoyan XieYichen SunXue QuXiao HanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2910.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0619https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0619/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring effective incentive policies for sustainable development of green buildings in China: based on evolutionary game theory and numerical simulation analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0622/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study reveals the green building development path and analyzes the optimal government subsidy equilibrium through evolutionary game theory and numerical simulation. This was done to explore the feasible measures and optimal incentives to achieve higher levels of green building in China. First, the practice of green building in China was analyzed, and the specific influencing factors and incentive measures for green building development were extracted. Second, China-specific evolutionary game models were constructed between developers and homebuyers under the market regulation and government incentive mechanism scenarios, and the evolutionary paths were analyzed. Finally, real-case numerical simulations were conducted, subsidy impacts were mainly analyzed and optimal subsidy equilibriums were solved. (1) Simultaneously subsidizing developers and homebuyers proved to be the most effective measure to promote the sustainability of green buildings. (2) The sensitivity of developers and homebuyers to subsidies varied across scenarios, and the optimal subsidy level diminished marginally as building greenness and public awareness increased. (3) The optimal subsidy level for developers was intricately tied to the building greenness benchmark. A higher benchmark intensified the developer’s responsiveness to losses, at which point increasing subsidies were justified. Conversely, a reduction in subsidy might have been appropriate when the benchmark was set at a lower level. The expeditious advancement of green buildings holds paramount importance for the high-quality development of the construction industry. Nevertheless, the pace of green building expansion in China has experienced a recent deceleration. Drawing insights from the practices of green building in China, the exploration of viable strategies and the determination of optimal government subsidies stand as imperative initiatives. These endeavors aim to propel the acceleration of green building proliferation and materialize high-quality development at the earliest juncture possible. The model is grounded in China’s green building practices, which makes the conclusions drawn more specific. Furthermore, research results provide practical references for governments to formulate green building incentive policies.Exploring effective incentive policies for sustainable development of green buildings in China: based on evolutionary game theory and numerical simulation analysis
Chunmei Fan, Xiaoyue Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study reveals the green building development path and analyzes the optimal government subsidy equilibrium through evolutionary game theory and numerical simulation. This was done to explore the feasible measures and optimal incentives to achieve higher levels of green building in China.

First, the practice of green building in China was analyzed, and the specific influencing factors and incentive measures for green building development were extracted. Second, China-specific evolutionary game models were constructed between developers and homebuyers under the market regulation and government incentive mechanism scenarios, and the evolutionary paths were analyzed. Finally, real-case numerical simulations were conducted, subsidy impacts were mainly analyzed and optimal subsidy equilibriums were solved.

(1) Simultaneously subsidizing developers and homebuyers proved to be the most effective measure to promote the sustainability of green buildings. (2) The sensitivity of developers and homebuyers to subsidies varied across scenarios, and the optimal subsidy level diminished marginally as building greenness and public awareness increased. (3) The optimal subsidy level for developers was intricately tied to the building greenness benchmark. A higher benchmark intensified the developer’s responsiveness to losses, at which point increasing subsidies were justified. Conversely, a reduction in subsidy might have been appropriate when the benchmark was set at a lower level.

The expeditious advancement of green buildings holds paramount importance for the high-quality development of the construction industry. Nevertheless, the pace of green building expansion in China has experienced a recent deceleration. Drawing insights from the practices of green building in China, the exploration of viable strategies and the determination of optimal government subsidies stand as imperative initiatives. These endeavors aim to propel the acceleration of green building proliferation and materialize high-quality development at the earliest juncture possible.

The model is grounded in China’s green building practices, which makes the conclusions drawn more specific. Furthermore, research results provide practical references for governments to formulate green building incentive policies.

]]>
Exploring effective incentive policies for sustainable development of green buildings in China: based on evolutionary game theory and numerical simulation analysis10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0622Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-19© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedChunmei FanXiaoyue LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1910.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0622https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0622/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Intellectual capital, digital transformation and firm performance: evidence based on listed companies in the Chinese construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0623/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe study aims to investigate the effects of intellectual capital and its constituents on the performance of listed companies operating in China's construction sector. The study also intends to examine the moderating role of digital transformation. Hypotheses will be tested using Modified Value-Added Intellectual Capital (MVAIC). The sample will be comprised of 93 Shenzhen and Shanghai A-share listed companies within the construction industry from the period of 2015–2021. Multiple regression analysis was employed to investigate the influence of intellectual capital, its components and digital transformation on the performance of construction firms. The study's results reveal that the performance of construction firms greatly depends on intellectual capital and its components. Furthermore, digital transformation plays a vital moderating role between intellectual capital and its components and construction firm performance. This study addresses a critical inquiry on how construction managers can employ intellectual capital to enhance the performance of firms during digital transformation. Additionally, this research bridges this gap by guiding construction managers to concentrate on their external surroundings when examining firm performance. By focusing on the predictors influencing construction firms' performance, this study contributes to the existing corpus of knowledge. This study employs resource orchestration theory (ROT) to determine how the different components of intellectual capital impact the performance of construction firms, with digital transformation acting as a moderating variable. This research will be valuable to researchers, construction industry professionals and policymakers.Intellectual capital, digital transformation and firm performance: evidence based on listed companies in the Chinese construction industry
Yang Zhang, Hui Li, Zeliang Yao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The study aims to investigate the effects of intellectual capital and its constituents on the performance of listed companies operating in China's construction sector. The study also intends to examine the moderating role of digital transformation.

Hypotheses will be tested using Modified Value-Added Intellectual Capital (MVAIC). The sample will be comprised of 93 Shenzhen and Shanghai A-share listed companies within the construction industry from the period of 2015–2021. Multiple regression analysis was employed to investigate the influence of intellectual capital, its components and digital transformation on the performance of construction firms.

The study's results reveal that the performance of construction firms greatly depends on intellectual capital and its components. Furthermore, digital transformation plays a vital moderating role between intellectual capital and its components and construction firm performance.

This study addresses a critical inquiry on how construction managers can employ intellectual capital to enhance the performance of firms during digital transformation. Additionally, this research bridges this gap by guiding construction managers to concentrate on their external surroundings when examining firm performance.

By focusing on the predictors influencing construction firms' performance, this study contributes to the existing corpus of knowledge. This study employs resource orchestration theory (ROT) to determine how the different components of intellectual capital impact the performance of construction firms, with digital transformation acting as a moderating variable. This research will be valuable to researchers, construction industry professionals and policymakers.

]]>
Intellectual capital, digital transformation and firm performance: evidence based on listed companies in the Chinese construction industry10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0623Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYang ZhangHui LiZeliang YaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1210.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0623https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0623/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical factors influencing the adoption of building information modelling (BIM) using technological adoption framework and structural equation modellinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0637/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper studies the critical factors from the perspectives of technological quality, personal compatibility and organisational commitment using the technological adoption framework (TAF). The proposed TAF studies the critical factors that influence the intention to use building information modelling (BIM) taking into consideration of the “Perceived Ease of Use (PEU)” and “Perceive Usefulness (PU).” The proposed study is a quantitative research study using the TAF model and the statistical analysis using “Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM).” The questionnaires are developed based on the literature review study and disseminated to the stakeholders in the Malaysian construction industry, including consultants, contractors, and clients. The data collected are analysed using PLS-SEM to identify the correlation between the critical factors influencing BIM adoption and the moderation influence of the PEU and PU towards the “Intention to Use (IU)” BIM. The data collected from 185 construction industry stakeholders in Malaysia was utilised to develop the structural equation model. The measurement model was analysed in terms of composite reliability, discriminant validity, and collinearity issues. Subsequently, the SEM is analysed, and the findings on the hypothesis on the correlation between the critical factors and the intention to use BIM are examined. The study also examines the mediation effects of the PEU and PU towards the BIM adoption in the Malaysian construction industry. This research conceptual framework, TAF, is derived from the integration of the existing underpinning theories of the technological adoption model and the technology–organisation–environment framework. This new TAF can be used for the study of new technology adoption. This cross-sectional research study is in line with the “Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan” in Malaysia to establish the current BIM adoption scenario and formulate the framework to promote incentives to promote BIM adoption.Critical factors influencing the adoption of building information modelling (BIM) using technological adoption framework and structural equation modelling
Chee Fui Wong, See Hung Lau, Ooi Kuan Tan, Jeffrey Boon Hui Yap
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper studies the critical factors from the perspectives of technological quality, personal compatibility and organisational commitment using the technological adoption framework (TAF). The proposed TAF studies the critical factors that influence the intention to use building information modelling (BIM) taking into consideration of the “Perceived Ease of Use (PEU)” and “Perceive Usefulness (PU).”

The proposed study is a quantitative research study using the TAF model and the statistical analysis using “Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM).” The questionnaires are developed based on the literature review study and disseminated to the stakeholders in the Malaysian construction industry, including consultants, contractors, and clients. The data collected are analysed using PLS-SEM to identify the correlation between the critical factors influencing BIM adoption and the moderation influence of the PEU and PU towards the “Intention to Use (IU)” BIM.

The data collected from 185 construction industry stakeholders in Malaysia was utilised to develop the structural equation model. The measurement model was analysed in terms of composite reliability, discriminant validity, and collinearity issues. Subsequently, the SEM is analysed, and the findings on the hypothesis on the correlation between the critical factors and the intention to use BIM are examined. The study also examines the mediation effects of the PEU and PU towards the BIM adoption in the Malaysian construction industry.

This research conceptual framework, TAF, is derived from the integration of the existing underpinning theories of the technological adoption model and the technology–organisation–environment framework. This new TAF can be used for the study of new technology adoption. This cross-sectional research study is in line with the “Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan” in Malaysia to establish the current BIM adoption scenario and formulate the framework to promote incentives to promote BIM adoption.

]]>
Critical factors influencing the adoption of building information modelling (BIM) using technological adoption framework and structural equation modelling10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0637Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedChee Fui WongSee Hung LauOoi Kuan TanJeffrey Boon Hui YapEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1110.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0637https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0637/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigation of the factors driving engineering insurance consumption in China’s construction industry: a hybrid approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0638/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGiven the increasing importance of engineering insurance, it is still unclear which specific factors can enhance the role of engineering insurance as a risk transfer tool. This study aims to propose a hybrid approach to identify and analyze the key determinants influencing the consumption of engineering insurance in mainland China. The empirical analysis utilizes provincial data from mainland China from 2008 to 2019. The research framework is a novel amalgamation of the generalized method of moments (GMM) model, the quantile regression (QR) technique and the random forest (RF) algorithm. This innovative hybrid approach provides a comprehensive exploration of the driving factors while also allowing for an examination across different quantiles of insurance consumption. The study identifies several driving factors that significantly impact engineering insurance consumption. Income, financial development, inflation, price, risk aversion, market structure and the social security system have a positive and significant influence on engineering insurance consumption. However, urbanization exhibits a negative and significant effect on the consumption of engineering insurance. QR techniques reveal variations in the effects of these driving factors across different levels of engineering insurance consumption. This study extends the research on insurance consumption to the domain of the engineering business, making theoretical and practical contributions. The findings enrich the knowledge of insurance consumption by identifying the driving factors specific to engineering insurance for the first time. The research framework provides a novel and useful tool for examining the determinants of insurance consumption. Furthermore, the study offers insights into the engineering insurance market and its implications for policymakers and market participants.Investigation of the factors driving engineering insurance consumption in China’s construction industry: a hybrid approach
Xiaowei Zhou, Yousong Wang, Enqin Gong
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Given the increasing importance of engineering insurance, it is still unclear which specific factors can enhance the role of engineering insurance as a risk transfer tool. This study aims to propose a hybrid approach to identify and analyze the key determinants influencing the consumption of engineering insurance in mainland China.

The empirical analysis utilizes provincial data from mainland China from 2008 to 2019. The research framework is a novel amalgamation of the generalized method of moments (GMM) model, the quantile regression (QR) technique and the random forest (RF) algorithm. This innovative hybrid approach provides a comprehensive exploration of the driving factors while also allowing for an examination across different quantiles of insurance consumption.

The study identifies several driving factors that significantly impact engineering insurance consumption. Income, financial development, inflation, price, risk aversion, market structure and the social security system have a positive and significant influence on engineering insurance consumption. However, urbanization exhibits a negative and significant effect on the consumption of engineering insurance. QR techniques reveal variations in the effects of these driving factors across different levels of engineering insurance consumption.

This study extends the research on insurance consumption to the domain of the engineering business, making theoretical and practical contributions. The findings enrich the knowledge of insurance consumption by identifying the driving factors specific to engineering insurance for the first time. The research framework provides a novel and useful tool for examining the determinants of insurance consumption. Furthermore, the study offers insights into the engineering insurance market and its implications for policymakers and market participants.

]]>
Investigation of the factors driving engineering insurance consumption in China’s construction industry: a hybrid approach10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0638Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-13© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaowei ZhouYousong WangEnqin GongEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1310.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0638https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0638/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
How did polycentric spatial structure affect carbon emissions of the construction industry? A case study of 10 Chinese urban clustershttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0640/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDue to the close connection between urban cluster and carbon emissions (CEs) but a lack of study on it of the construction industry, this paper aims to explore the relationship between the polycentric spatial structure (PSS) of the urban clusters and CEs of the construction industry (CECI). This research uses panel data of 10 Chinese urban clusters from 2006–2021, calculates their PSSs in the aspects of economy and employment and adopts a panel regression model to explore the effect of the spatiotemporal characteristics of the PSSs on the CECI. First, the CECI in 10 Chinese urban clusters showed a rising trend in general, and the CECI in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) was much higher than those in the rest of urban clusters. Second, both Shandong Peninsula (SP) and Guangdong-Fujian-Zhejiang (GFZ) exhibited high degrees of polycentric characteristics, while Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) showed weaker degrees. Third, the results demonstrated that the polycentric development of urban clusters did not help reduce the CECI but rather promote the CE. The polycentric index, considering the linear distance from the main center to sub center, had a more significant impact on the CECI. Previous studies have investigated the impact of urban spatial structure (USS) on CEs; however, few of them have studied in the field of construction industry. Moreover, most research of CEs have concentrated at the national and provincial levels, with fewer studies on urban clusters. This paper contributes to this knowledge by investigating how the PSS of urban cluster influence the CECI.How did polycentric spatial structure affect carbon emissions of the construction industry? A case study of 10 Chinese urban clusters
Yousong Wang, Guolin Shi, Yangbing Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Due to the close connection between urban cluster and carbon emissions (CEs) but a lack of study on it of the construction industry, this paper aims to explore the relationship between the polycentric spatial structure (PSS) of the urban clusters and CEs of the construction industry (CECI).

This research uses panel data of 10 Chinese urban clusters from 2006–2021, calculates their PSSs in the aspects of economy and employment and adopts a panel regression model to explore the effect of the spatiotemporal characteristics of the PSSs on the CECI.

First, the CECI in 10 Chinese urban clusters showed a rising trend in general, and the CECI in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) was much higher than those in the rest of urban clusters. Second, both Shandong Peninsula (SP) and Guangdong-Fujian-Zhejiang (GFZ) exhibited high degrees of polycentric characteristics, while Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) showed weaker degrees. Third, the results demonstrated that the polycentric development of urban clusters did not help reduce the CECI but rather promote the CE. The polycentric index, considering the linear distance from the main center to sub center, had a more significant impact on the CECI.

Previous studies have investigated the impact of urban spatial structure (USS) on CEs; however, few of them have studied in the field of construction industry. Moreover, most research of CEs have concentrated at the national and provincial levels, with fewer studies on urban clusters. This paper contributes to this knowledge by investigating how the PSS of urban cluster influence the CECI.

]]>
How did polycentric spatial structure affect carbon emissions of the construction industry? A case study of 10 Chinese urban clusters10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0640Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYousong WangGuolin ShiYangbing ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1810.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0640https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-06-2023-0640/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Women in the UK construction industry: are we still clinging to the “old boys club”?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2020-0537/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe construction industry is famous for gender imbalance and reluctance in initiating change. In recent years, construction is becoming an attractive career choice for women. However, this change has been gradual. The purpose of this research was to understand the challenges women are facing in construction sector after a decade of implementation of the Equality Act 2010 in the UK and how women in the sector feel the industry could be further improved. This research investigated real-life experiences to identify where the industry needs to make viable improvements. A qualitative research methodology was adopted. In total, 31 semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data, which was then analysed using content analysis for inference and conclusion. This research revealed that women still experience adversity forcing them to work harder than usual to prove their belonging in construction sector. The “man’s world” culture is still widespread. However, women have seen improvements over recent years but believe more can be done from an intersectionality perspective. This is pertinent due to the Brexit and Covid-19 situation. The study contributes to the field of equality and diversity in the construction sector. Women believe that factors such as bespoke initiatives, equal pay, flexible working hours (considering childcare and caring responsibilities), mental health and well-being support, and equality and diversity policies will enable the construction sector to create conducive environment for women now and in the future.Women in the UK construction industry: are we still clinging to the “old boys club”?
Subashini Suresh, Suresh Renukappa, Mark Stride, Rachel Nicola Toor, Asiha Khan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The construction industry is famous for gender imbalance and reluctance in initiating change. In recent years, construction is becoming an attractive career choice for women. However, this change has been gradual. The purpose of this research was to understand the challenges women are facing in construction sector after a decade of implementation of the Equality Act 2010 in the UK and how women in the sector feel the industry could be further improved. This research investigated real-life experiences to identify where the industry needs to make viable improvements.

A qualitative research methodology was adopted. In total, 31 semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data, which was then analysed using content analysis for inference and conclusion.

This research revealed that women still experience adversity forcing them to work harder than usual to prove their belonging in construction sector. The “man’s world” culture is still widespread. However, women have seen improvements over recent years but believe more can be done from an intersectionality perspective. This is pertinent due to the Brexit and Covid-19 situation.

The study contributes to the field of equality and diversity in the construction sector. Women believe that factors such as bespoke initiatives, equal pay, flexible working hours (considering childcare and caring responsibilities), mental health and well-being support, and equality and diversity policies will enable the construction sector to create conducive environment for women now and in the future.

]]>
Women in the UK construction industry: are we still clinging to the “old boys club”?10.1108/ECAM-07-2020-0537Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSubashini SureshSuresh RenukappaMark StrideRachel Nicola ToorAsiha KhanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-1910.1108/ECAM-07-2020-0537https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2020-0537/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evolutionary game analysis of the intelligent upgrading of smart solar photovoltaic projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2021-0631/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe development of China's solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is in a transition period from pursuing scale and speed to focusing on efficiency and quality. “Smart PV projects” (SPVPs) were proposed by the ministries of the Chinese government in 2018 to encourage intelligent upgrading and to fill the gaps in traditional PV projects. However, only a small number of PV enterprises are in progress, and only a few SPVPs have been built. The intelligence level of China's PV projects needs to be improved. The purpose of this study is to analyze the willingness of the main participants to be involved in the intelligent upgrading of PV projects by establishing an evolutionary game model that includes three parties. A tripartite evolutionary game model is constructed that considers PV enterprises, project owners and the government. The evolutionary stability strategies of each party and the corresponding stable conditions are obtained. The parameters that affect the decision behaviors are also analyzed. The four stages of the intelligent upgrade of PV projects and the effects of the government subsidy strategies are examined. At different stages, adopting different measures to promote cooperation among the three parties involved is necessary. Government subsidies should be provided to PV enterprises during the initial stage and should be biased toward project owners during the intermediate stage. During the peak stage, PV enterprises constantly need to decrease project costs and improve quality and service, thus helping project owners reduce their initial investments and obtain additional gains. The government's reputation drives it to continually adopt incentive strategies. This research focuses on the interactions among the three parties. Based on evolutionary game analysis, several conditions that facilitate the intelligent upgrading of PV projects are illustrated. Implications for different developing stages are proposed from the perspectives of each party for the decision-makers of SPVPs.Evolutionary game analysis of the intelligent upgrading of smart solar photovoltaic projects
Yibo Hu, Jinbo Song, Tingting Zhao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The development of China's solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is in a transition period from pursuing scale and speed to focusing on efficiency and quality. “Smart PV projects” (SPVPs) were proposed by the ministries of the Chinese government in 2018 to encourage intelligent upgrading and to fill the gaps in traditional PV projects. However, only a small number of PV enterprises are in progress, and only a few SPVPs have been built. The intelligence level of China's PV projects needs to be improved. The purpose of this study is to analyze the willingness of the main participants to be involved in the intelligent upgrading of PV projects by establishing an evolutionary game model that includes three parties.

A tripartite evolutionary game model is constructed that considers PV enterprises, project owners and the government. The evolutionary stability strategies of each party and the corresponding stable conditions are obtained. The parameters that affect the decision behaviors are also analyzed.

The four stages of the intelligent upgrade of PV projects and the effects of the government subsidy strategies are examined. At different stages, adopting different measures to promote cooperation among the three parties involved is necessary. Government subsidies should be provided to PV enterprises during the initial stage and should be biased toward project owners during the intermediate stage. During the peak stage, PV enterprises constantly need to decrease project costs and improve quality and service, thus helping project owners reduce their initial investments and obtain additional gains. The government's reputation drives it to continually adopt incentive strategies.

This research focuses on the interactions among the three parties. Based on evolutionary game analysis, several conditions that facilitate the intelligent upgrading of PV projects are illustrated. Implications for different developing stages are proposed from the perspectives of each party for the decision-makers of SPVPs.

]]>
Evolutionary game analysis of the intelligent upgrading of smart solar photovoltaic projects10.1108/ECAM-07-2021-0631Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-16© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYibo HuJinbo SongTingting ZhaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1610.1108/ECAM-07-2021-0631https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2021-0631/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of prefabricated construction technology: a contingency theory perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0615/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInsufficient intra-organizational diffusion of prefabricated construction (PC) technology hinders its implementation benefits. More research on intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology is required to improve organizational performance in PC implementation. This study aims to explore the antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology. This study established an antecedent and consequence model of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology from the perspective of contingency theory. The model was empirically tested by 91 valid questionnaires using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that organizational support (OSU), organizational climate (OC) and mechanistic organizational structure (OST) positively influence intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology, which further positively influences organizational performance. The relationship between OC and intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology is mediated by OSU. Technological turbulence negatively moderates the relationship between OSU and intra-organizational diffusion. This is the first paper to study the antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology and an expansion of contingency theory in the research field of PC technology. This study helps to theoretically stimulate future research on intra-organizational diffusion and practically promote intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology along with improving organizational performance in its implementation.Antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of prefabricated construction technology: a contingency theory perspective
Tianxin Li, Zhongfu Li, Jin Cai
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Insufficient intra-organizational diffusion of prefabricated construction (PC) technology hinders its implementation benefits. More research on intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology is required to improve organizational performance in PC implementation. This study aims to explore the antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology.

This study established an antecedent and consequence model of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology from the perspective of contingency theory. The model was empirically tested by 91 valid questionnaires using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

The results indicate that organizational support (OSU), organizational climate (OC) and mechanistic organizational structure (OST) positively influence intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology, which further positively influences organizational performance. The relationship between OC and intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology is mediated by OSU. Technological turbulence negatively moderates the relationship between OSU and intra-organizational diffusion.

This is the first paper to study the antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology and an expansion of contingency theory in the research field of PC technology. This study helps to theoretically stimulate future research on intra-organizational diffusion and practically promote intra-organizational diffusion of PC technology along with improving organizational performance in its implementation.

]]>
Antecedents and consequence of intra-organizational diffusion of prefabricated construction technology: a contingency theory perspective10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0615Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedTianxin LiZhongfu LiJin CaiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-0610.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0615https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0615/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Psychosocial hazards affecting mental health in the construction industry: a qualitative study in Australiahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0617/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMental health problems are a grave concern in construction. Although the distinction between high job demands and low job resources, as reflected in the Job Demands-Resources (JD–R) model, has been used to examine the extent to which psychosocial hazards influence mental health for construction practitioners, limited research has reflected on the nature of these psychosocial hazards by exploring experiences of site-based construction practitioners. This study adopted a phenomenological approach to examine people’ experiences and thoughts of the complex phenomena of psychosocial hazards and mental health in construction. In total, 33 semi-structured interviews were undertaken with site-based construction practitioners in Australia to unveil construction-focused psychosocial hazards and their effects on mental health. The data were analysed via content analysis, employing an interpretation-focused coding strategy to code text and an individual-based sorting strategy to cluster codes. Eighteen psychosocial hazards were identified based on the JD–R model. Six of these represented a new contribution, describing salient characteristics inherent to the construction context (i.e. safety concerns, exposure to traumatic events, job insecurity, task interdependency, client demand and contract pressure). Of particular importance, a number of interrelationships among psychosocial hazards emerged. The significance of this qualitative research lies in elucidating psychosocial hazards and their complex interrelatedness in the context of the mental health of construction practitioners, enriching the understanding of this central health and safety issue in the high-risk setting of construction work. The findings contribute to addressing mental health issues in the Australian construction industry by identifying higher order control measures, thereby creating a mentally healthy workplace.Psychosocial hazards affecting mental health in the construction industry: a qualitative study in Australia
Carol K.H. Hon, Chenjunyan Sun, Kïrsten A. Way, Nerina L. Jimmieson, Bo Xia, Herbert C. Biggs
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Mental health problems are a grave concern in construction. Although the distinction between high job demands and low job resources, as reflected in the Job Demands-Resources (JD–R) model, has been used to examine the extent to which psychosocial hazards influence mental health for construction practitioners, limited research has reflected on the nature of these psychosocial hazards by exploring experiences of site-based construction practitioners.

This study adopted a phenomenological approach to examine people’ experiences and thoughts of the complex phenomena of psychosocial hazards and mental health in construction. In total, 33 semi-structured interviews were undertaken with site-based construction practitioners in Australia to unveil construction-focused psychosocial hazards and their effects on mental health. The data were analysed via content analysis, employing an interpretation-focused coding strategy to code text and an individual-based sorting strategy to cluster codes.

Eighteen psychosocial hazards were identified based on the JD–R model. Six of these represented a new contribution, describing salient characteristics inherent to the construction context (i.e. safety concerns, exposure to traumatic events, job insecurity, task interdependency, client demand and contract pressure). Of particular importance, a number of interrelationships among psychosocial hazards emerged.

The significance of this qualitative research lies in elucidating psychosocial hazards and their complex interrelatedness in the context of the mental health of construction practitioners, enriching the understanding of this central health and safety issue in the high-risk setting of construction work. The findings contribute to addressing mental health issues in the Australian construction industry by identifying higher order control measures, thereby creating a mentally healthy workplace.

]]>
Psychosocial hazards affecting mental health in the construction industry: a qualitative study in Australia10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0617Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedCarol K.H. HonChenjunyan SunKïrsten A. WayNerina L. JimmiesonBo XiaHerbert C. BiggsEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2810.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0617https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0617/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Project cost control system and enabling-factors model: PLS-SEM approach and importance-performance map analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0619/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper reports the developments of a project cost control system (PCCS) for construction projects to (1) measure its current level of cost control maturity, (2) examine the relationships between elements within PCCS processes and (3) identify improvement areas. This study adopts a mixed approach of descriptive analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to measure the current maturity level of PCCS and evaluate the relationships between elements within PCSS to identify improvement areas. Further importance-performance matrix analysis (IPMA) of priority constructs was conducted to improve a target construct and identify the most important areas of specific actions at indicator levels. The results of IPMA revealed the contrast that has the greatest importance on the performance of others so that the recommendations can be made accordingly. Data collected in New Zealand were used to develop the research model. This study develops structural and measurement models with the constructs including pre-control, in-control and post-control processes, enablers and their proposed interrelationships. Then, data from survey of 184 experienced project cost control team members reveal that post-control has the lowest maturity or weakest areas in the PCCS. Data analysis facilitated by PLS-SEM confirmed that all the constructs in the structural model have positive and significant relationships with each other and suggested that systematic cost analysis reports, communication, skills and experience, defining roles and responsibilities, and top management's support should be the highest priority for improving the PCCS in a more effective manner. This study presents one of the earliest attempts to develop and test an integrated model that links sub-processes in PCCS and their enablers. Secondly, this research adds to the construction project management literature by empirically verifying the roles of enablers in enhancing maturity level of PCCS.Project cost control system and enabling-factors model: PLS-SEM approach and importance-performance map analysis
An Thi Hoai Le, Monty Sutrisna
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper reports the developments of a project cost control system (PCCS) for construction projects to (1) measure its current level of cost control maturity, (2) examine the relationships between elements within PCCS processes and (3) identify improvement areas.

This study adopts a mixed approach of descriptive analysis and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to measure the current maturity level of PCCS and evaluate the relationships between elements within PCSS to identify improvement areas. Further importance-performance matrix analysis (IPMA) of priority constructs was conducted to improve a target construct and identify the most important areas of specific actions at indicator levels. The results of IPMA revealed the contrast that has the greatest importance on the performance of others so that the recommendations can be made accordingly. Data collected in New Zealand were used to develop the research model.

This study develops structural and measurement models with the constructs including pre-control, in-control and post-control processes, enablers and their proposed interrelationships. Then, data from survey of 184 experienced project cost control team members reveal that post-control has the lowest maturity or weakest areas in the PCCS. Data analysis facilitated by PLS-SEM confirmed that all the constructs in the structural model have positive and significant relationships with each other and suggested that systematic cost analysis reports, communication, skills and experience, defining roles and responsibilities, and top management's support should be the highest priority for improving the PCCS in a more effective manner.

This study presents one of the earliest attempts to develop and test an integrated model that links sub-processes in PCCS and their enablers. Secondly, this research adds to the construction project management literature by empirically verifying the roles of enablers in enhancing maturity level of PCCS.

]]>
Project cost control system and enabling-factors model: PLS-SEM approach and importance-performance map analysis10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0619Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAn Thi Hoai LeMonty SutrisnaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-2310.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0619https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0619/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Effective leadership styles to boost employees’ work outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic: perspective of facilities management professionalshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0628/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study investigated what are the effective leadership styles and practices that boost employees’ work outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of facilities management professionals (FMPs). Three predominant leadership styles (transformational, transactional contingent reward and disaster management) were operationalized into 38 leadership practices (X variables) and 8 work outcomes (Y variables). The explanatory sequential research design was adopted. Online questionnaire survey was first conducted on FMPs who managed facilities during the critical periods of COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore. In-depth interviews were then carried out with subject matter experts to elaborate on the quantitative findings. During the pandemic, FMPs were significantly stressed at work, but also experienced significant job satisfaction and satisfaction with their leaders/supervisors. Statistical results revealed a range of leadership practices that are significantly correlated with FMPs’ work outcomes. One leadership practice is critical as it affects 4 of the 8 FMPs’ work outcomes - frequently acknowledging employees’ good performance during the pandemic. The study explored 3 leadership styles. There are other styles like laissez faire and servant leadership that might also affect work outcomes. Based on the findings, suggestions were provided to organizations that employ FMPs on how to improve their work outcomes during a crisis such as a pandemic. The novelty is the discovery that in the context of a global disaster such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the most relevant leadership styles to boost employees’ work outcomes are transactional contingent reward and disaster management leadership. The study adds to knowledge by showing that not one leadership style is superior – all 3 styles are complementary, but distinct, forms of leadership that need to work in tandem to boost FMPs’ work outcomes during a crisis such as a pandemic.Effective leadership styles to boost employees’ work outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic: perspective of facilities management professionals
Florence Yean Yng Ling, Kelly Kai Li Teh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study investigated what are the effective leadership styles and practices that boost employees’ work outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of facilities management professionals (FMPs).

Three predominant leadership styles (transformational, transactional contingent reward and disaster management) were operationalized into 38 leadership practices (X variables) and 8 work outcomes (Y variables). The explanatory sequential research design was adopted. Online questionnaire survey was first conducted on FMPs who managed facilities during the critical periods of COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore. In-depth interviews were then carried out with subject matter experts to elaborate on the quantitative findings.

During the pandemic, FMPs were significantly stressed at work, but also experienced significant job satisfaction and satisfaction with their leaders/supervisors. Statistical results revealed a range of leadership practices that are significantly correlated with FMPs’ work outcomes. One leadership practice is critical as it affects 4 of the 8 FMPs’ work outcomes - frequently acknowledging employees’ good performance during the pandemic.

The study explored 3 leadership styles. There are other styles like laissez faire and servant leadership that might also affect work outcomes.

Based on the findings, suggestions were provided to organizations that employ FMPs on how to improve their work outcomes during a crisis such as a pandemic.

The novelty is the discovery that in the context of a global disaster such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the most relevant leadership styles to boost employees’ work outcomes are transactional contingent reward and disaster management leadership. The study adds to knowledge by showing that not one leadership style is superior – all 3 styles are complementary, but distinct, forms of leadership that need to work in tandem to boost FMPs’ work outcomes during a crisis such as a pandemic.

]]>
Effective leadership styles to boost employees’ work outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic: perspective of facilities management professionals10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0628Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-11© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedFlorence Yean Yng LingKelly Kai Li TehEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1110.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0628https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0628/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
How to improve the smart construction technology usage behavior of construction enterprise employees? — TOE framework based on configuration studyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0631/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite smart construction technology's great potential to improve the productivity of the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, the implementation of smart construction technology has failed to achieve the expected benefits due to the negative usage behaviors of construction enterprise employees. This study aims to identify the determinants and their configuration effects on the smart construction technology usage behavior (SCTUB) based on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. This study then verifies the practical paths to improve the employee's SCTUB from the configuration perspective. A mixed-method approach involving survey and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) is conducted in this study. Based on the detailed literature review and semi-structured interview, this study identifies the factors and proposes the TOE framework to determine the configuration conditions affecting employee's SCTUB and verify practical paths to promote this user behavior. The TOE framework's technical, organizational and environmental elements are interdependent. The emergence of a high SCTUB is not determined by a single determinant but by configuration conditions. Four equifinal conditions (e.g. organization-technology type, technology-organization type, environment type and organization-technology balanced type) are verified to promote construction enterprise employee's SCTUB. The four verified configuration conditions could guide construction enterprises to formulate complementary strategies for promoting the construction enterprises' employees to implement smart construction technology and achieve the enterprise's digital transformation. The inter-dependence of the three-dimension factors, namely technical, organizational and environmental elements are explored to enrich the literature on the TOE framework. Meanwhile, the configuration effects of these factors on usage behavior are identified, expanding the literature on the information technology acceptance model.How to improve the smart construction technology usage behavior of construction enterprise employees? — TOE framework based on configuration study
Hong Xue, Sujie Zhang, Zezhou Wu, Lin Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite smart construction technology's great potential to improve the productivity of the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, the implementation of smart construction technology has failed to achieve the expected benefits due to the negative usage behaviors of construction enterprise employees. This study aims to identify the determinants and their configuration effects on the smart construction technology usage behavior (SCTUB) based on the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework. This study then verifies the practical paths to improve the employee's SCTUB from the configuration perspective.

A mixed-method approach involving survey and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) is conducted in this study. Based on the detailed literature review and semi-structured interview, this study identifies the factors and proposes the TOE framework to determine the configuration conditions affecting employee's SCTUB and verify practical paths to promote this user behavior.

The TOE framework's technical, organizational and environmental elements are interdependent. The emergence of a high SCTUB is not determined by a single determinant but by configuration conditions. Four equifinal conditions (e.g. organization-technology type, technology-organization type, environment type and organization-technology balanced type) are verified to promote construction enterprise employee's SCTUB.

The four verified configuration conditions could guide construction enterprises to formulate complementary strategies for promoting the construction enterprises' employees to implement smart construction technology and achieve the enterprise's digital transformation.

The inter-dependence of the three-dimension factors, namely technical, organizational and environmental elements are explored to enrich the literature on the TOE framework. Meanwhile, the configuration effects of these factors on usage behavior are identified, expanding the literature on the information technology acceptance model.

]]>
How to improve the smart construction technology usage behavior of construction enterprise employees? — TOE framework based on configuration study10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0631Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-25© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHong XueSujie ZhangZezhou WuLin ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2510.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0631https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0631/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Challenges of industrial revolution 4.0: quantity surveying students' perspectiveshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0636/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe industrial revolution 4.0 (IR4.0) signifies technological advancements and digitalization. The fragmented and labour-intensive nature of the construction industry inherently possesses difficulties for IR4.0 adoption compared to other industries. This paper aims to investigate the perspectives of quantity surveying students on the challenges of IR4.0 implementation in the construction industry. A questionnaire survey were distributed to a population of 191 quantity surveying students, with 96 valid responses returned. Descriptive statistics and factor analysis were employed to analyse the collected data. Factor analysis revealed eight components as the key challenges for IR4.0 implementation, which revolved around resistance to change, data security issues, etc. The findings could provide a guideline to higher education institutions on certain IR4.0-related areas to be incorporated into the syllabus, in ensuring that the students are equipped with such skills and knowledge, in meeting market demands. The construction stakeholders' could look into the identified challenges for strategizing the organizations in moving towards IR4.0 adoption. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate quantity surveying students' perspectives on the challenges of IR4.0 implementation in the construction industry by employing factor analysis method. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in relation to the opinions of a younger generation who has more exposure towards technology on the hindrance of IR4.0 adoption.Challenges of industrial revolution 4.0: quantity surveying students' perspectives
Melissa Li Wen Lim, Shi Yee Wong, Chu Sheng Ding
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The industrial revolution 4.0 (IR4.0) signifies technological advancements and digitalization. The fragmented and labour-intensive nature of the construction industry inherently possesses difficulties for IR4.0 adoption compared to other industries. This paper aims to investigate the perspectives of quantity surveying students on the challenges of IR4.0 implementation in the construction industry.

A questionnaire survey were distributed to a population of 191 quantity surveying students, with 96 valid responses returned. Descriptive statistics and factor analysis were employed to analyse the collected data.

Factor analysis revealed eight components as the key challenges for IR4.0 implementation, which revolved around resistance to change, data security issues, etc.

The findings could provide a guideline to higher education institutions on certain IR4.0-related areas to be incorporated into the syllabus, in ensuring that the students are equipped with such skills and knowledge, in meeting market demands. The construction stakeholders' could look into the identified challenges for strategizing the organizations in moving towards IR4.0 adoption.

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate quantity surveying students' perspectives on the challenges of IR4.0 implementation in the construction industry by employing factor analysis method. The findings contribute to the body of knowledge in relation to the opinions of a younger generation who has more exposure towards technology on the hindrance of IR4.0 adoption.

]]>
Challenges of industrial revolution 4.0: quantity surveying students' perspectives10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0636Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-10© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedMelissa Li Wen LimShi Yee WongChu Sheng DingEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1010.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0636https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0636/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Simulating and optimizing precast wall lifting in prefabricated building constructionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0641/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrecast wall lifting during prefabricated building construction faces multiple non-lean problems, such as inaccurate lifting-time estimation, unreasonable resource allocation and improper process design. This study aims to identify the pathways for improving lifting performance to advance lean construction of prefabricated buildings. This study developed a methodological framework that integrates the discrete event simulation method, the elimination, combination, rearrangement and simplification (ECRS) technique and intelligent optimization tool. Two schemes of precast wall lifting, namely, the enterprise's business as usual (BAU) and enterprise-leading (EL) schemes, were set to benchmark lifting performance. Furthermore, a best-practice (BP) scheme was modeled from the perspective of lifting activity ECRS and resource allocation for performance optimization. A real project was selected to test the effect of the methodological framework. The results showed that compared with the EL scheme, the BP scheme reduced the total lifting time (TLT) by 6.3% and mitigated the TLT uncertainty (the gap between the maximum and minimum time values) by 20.6%. Under the BP scheme, increasing the resource inputs produces an insignificant effect in reducing TLT, i.e. increasing the number of component operators in the caulking subprocess from one to two only shortened the TLT by 3.6%, and no further time reduction was achieved as more component operators were added. To solve non-lean problems associated with prefabricated building construction, this study provides a methodological framework that can separate a typical precast wall lifting process into fine-level activities. Besides, it also identifies the pathways (including the learning effect mitigation, labor and machinery resource adjustment and activities’ improvement) to reducing TLT and its uncertainty.Simulating and optimizing precast wall lifting in prefabricated building construction
Zhenmin Yuan, Yuan Chang, Yunfeng Chen, Yaowu Wang, Wei Huang, Chen Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Precast wall lifting during prefabricated building construction faces multiple non-lean problems, such as inaccurate lifting-time estimation, unreasonable resource allocation and improper process design. This study aims to identify the pathways for improving lifting performance to advance lean construction of prefabricated buildings.

This study developed a methodological framework that integrates the discrete event simulation method, the elimination, combination, rearrangement and simplification (ECRS) technique and intelligent optimization tool. Two schemes of precast wall lifting, namely, the enterprise's business as usual (BAU) and enterprise-leading (EL) schemes, were set to benchmark lifting performance. Furthermore, a best-practice (BP) scheme was modeled from the perspective of lifting activity ECRS and resource allocation for performance optimization.

A real project was selected to test the effect of the methodological framework. The results showed that compared with the EL scheme, the BP scheme reduced the total lifting time (TLT) by 6.3% and mitigated the TLT uncertainty (the gap between the maximum and minimum time values) by 20.6%. Under the BP scheme, increasing the resource inputs produces an insignificant effect in reducing TLT, i.e. increasing the number of component operators in the caulking subprocess from one to two only shortened the TLT by 3.6%, and no further time reduction was achieved as more component operators were added.

To solve non-lean problems associated with prefabricated building construction, this study provides a methodological framework that can separate a typical precast wall lifting process into fine-level activities. Besides, it also identifies the pathways (including the learning effect mitigation, labor and machinery resource adjustment and activities’ improvement) to reducing TLT and its uncertainty.

]]>
Simulating and optimizing precast wall lifting in prefabricated building construction10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0641Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-29© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhenmin YuanYuan ChangYunfeng ChenYaowu WangWei HuangChen ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2910.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0641https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0641/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
BIM and real estate valuation: challenges, potentials and lessons for future directionshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0642/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBuilding information modeling (BIM) is a striking development in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, which provides in-depth information on different stages of the building lifecycle. Real estate valuation, as a fully interconnected field with the AEC industry, can benefit from 3D technical achievements in BIM technologies. Some studies have attempted to use BIM for real estate valuation procedures. However, there is still a limited understanding of appropriate mechanisms to utilize BIM for valuation purposes and the consequent impact that BIM can have on decreasing the existing uncertainties in the valuation methods. Therefore, the paper aims to analyze the literature on BIM for real estate valuation practices. This paper presents a systematic review to analyze existing utilizations of BIM for real estate valuation practices, discovers the challenges, limitations and gaps of the current applications and presents potential domains for future investigations. Research was conducted on the Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases to find relevant references that could contribute to the study. A total of 52 publications including journal papers, conference papers and proceedings, book chapters and PhD and master's theses were identified and thoroughly reviewed. There was no limitation on the starting date of research, but the end date was May 2022. Four domains of application have been identified: (1) developing machine learning-based valuation models using the variables that could directly be captured through BIM and industry foundation classes (IFC) data instances of building objects and their attributes; (2) evaluating the capacity of 3D factors extractable from BIM and 3D GIS in increasing the accuracy of existing valuation models; (3) employing BIM for accurate estimation of components of cost approach-based valuation practices; and (4) extraction of useful visual features for real estate valuation from BIM representations instead of 2D images through deep learning and computer vision. This paper contributes to research efforts on utilization of 3D modeling in real estate valuation practices. In this regard, this paper presents a broad overview of the current applications of BIM for valuation procedures and provides potential ways forward for future investigations.BIM and real estate valuation: challenges, potentials and lessons for future directions
Peyman Jafary, Davood Shojaei, Abbas Rajabifard, Tuan Ngo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Building information modeling (BIM) is a striking development in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, which provides in-depth information on different stages of the building lifecycle. Real estate valuation, as a fully interconnected field with the AEC industry, can benefit from 3D technical achievements in BIM technologies. Some studies have attempted to use BIM for real estate valuation procedures. However, there is still a limited understanding of appropriate mechanisms to utilize BIM for valuation purposes and the consequent impact that BIM can have on decreasing the existing uncertainties in the valuation methods. Therefore, the paper aims to analyze the literature on BIM for real estate valuation practices.

This paper presents a systematic review to analyze existing utilizations of BIM for real estate valuation practices, discovers the challenges, limitations and gaps of the current applications and presents potential domains for future investigations. Research was conducted on the Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases to find relevant references that could contribute to the study. A total of 52 publications including journal papers, conference papers and proceedings, book chapters and PhD and master's theses were identified and thoroughly reviewed. There was no limitation on the starting date of research, but the end date was May 2022.

Four domains of application have been identified: (1) developing machine learning-based valuation models using the variables that could directly be captured through BIM and industry foundation classes (IFC) data instances of building objects and their attributes; (2) evaluating the capacity of 3D factors extractable from BIM and 3D GIS in increasing the accuracy of existing valuation models; (3) employing BIM for accurate estimation of components of cost approach-based valuation practices; and (4) extraction of useful visual features for real estate valuation from BIM representations instead of 2D images through deep learning and computer vision.

This paper contributes to research efforts on utilization of 3D modeling in real estate valuation practices. In this regard, this paper presents a broad overview of the current applications of BIM for valuation procedures and provides potential ways forward for future investigations.

]]>
BIM and real estate valuation: challenges, potentials and lessons for future directions10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0642Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-07© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedPeyman JafaryDavood ShojaeiAbbas RajabifardTuan NgoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-0710.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0642https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0642/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining critical project management skills for successful delivery of major maintenance projects: insights from the United Kingdom energy sectorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0658/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMajor maintenance projects are often regarded as maintenance activities regardless of the projects' complexity and scale. Consequently, very scarce research attention has hitherto been paid to the critical skills required when undertaking these projects. More specifically, the body of relevant knowledge is deprived of a study focusing on maintenance projects within the energy sector. In view of this shortcoming, this research aims to examine the critical project management (PM) skills required to deliver major maintenance projects within the energy sector. Based on a quantitative research strategy, this study addressed the knowledge gap through a cross-sectional survey of professionals involved in the delivery of major maintenance projects in the United Kingdom's (UK) energy sector. Data obtained were analyzed via descriptive (e.g. frequencies, mean and standard deviation [SD]) and inferential statistical analyses (One sample t-test and exploratory factor analysis (EFA)). Out of the 45 PM skills identified in the literature and examined by the respondents, the results obtained from the One sample t-test (based on p (1-tailed) = 0.05) showed that 37 were considered to be at least “important,” accounting for 80.4% of all the skills identified. EFA revealed a clustering of the PM skills items into seven components: “skills related to work scheduling and coordination”; “communication, risk, safety and stakeholder management skills”; “quality assurance skills”; “people management skills”; “skills related to forecasting scope and duration of outage”; “implementation of processes and time management skills” and “technical/engineering skills and experience pertaining to the outage and local site knowledge.” This study has identified and contributed to the limited state-of-the-art skills project managers must possess to manage major maintenance projects in the energy sector successfully. The findings would be useful to organizations within the energy sector in ensuring that the organizations have suitable personnel in place to deliver major maintenance projects on the organizations' assets.Examining critical project management skills for successful delivery of major maintenance projects: insights from the United Kingdom energy sector
Bryan Pieterse, Kofi Agyekum, Patrick Manu, Saeed Reza Mohandes, Clara Cheung, Akilu Yunusa-Kaltungo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Major maintenance projects are often regarded as maintenance activities regardless of the projects' complexity and scale. Consequently, very scarce research attention has hitherto been paid to the critical skills required when undertaking these projects. More specifically, the body of relevant knowledge is deprived of a study focusing on maintenance projects within the energy sector. In view of this shortcoming, this research aims to examine the critical project management (PM) skills required to deliver major maintenance projects within the energy sector.

Based on a quantitative research strategy, this study addressed the knowledge gap through a cross-sectional survey of professionals involved in the delivery of major maintenance projects in the United Kingdom's (UK) energy sector. Data obtained were analyzed via descriptive (e.g. frequencies, mean and standard deviation [SD]) and inferential statistical analyses (One sample t-test and exploratory factor analysis (EFA)).

Out of the 45 PM skills identified in the literature and examined by the respondents, the results obtained from the One sample t-test (based on p (1-tailed) = 0.05) showed that 37 were considered to be at least “important,” accounting for 80.4% of all the skills identified. EFA revealed a clustering of the PM skills items into seven components: “skills related to work scheduling and coordination”; “communication, risk, safety and stakeholder management skills”; “quality assurance skills”; “people management skills”; “skills related to forecasting scope and duration of outage”; “implementation of processes and time management skills” and “technical/engineering skills and experience pertaining to the outage and local site knowledge.”

This study has identified and contributed to the limited state-of-the-art skills project managers must possess to manage major maintenance projects in the energy sector successfully. The findings would be useful to organizations within the energy sector in ensuring that the organizations have suitable personnel in place to deliver major maintenance projects on the organizations' assets.

]]>
Examining critical project management skills for successful delivery of major maintenance projects: insights from the United Kingdom energy sector10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0658Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-14© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedBryan PieterseKofi AgyekumPatrick ManuSaeed Reza MohandesClara CheungAkilu Yunusa-KaltungoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1410.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0658https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0658/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
The pandemic readiness assessment of building design and engineering service-related legislation in Kazakhstan and the EUhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0661/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe current COVID-19 pandemic is influencing our life in every aspect, including working and living environments. Millions of people were forced to isolate themselves in their homes, which has posed significant pressure on buildings and shown us that our dwellings are not designed for such purposes. This is partly due to the fact that homes are designed and built for occasional use rather than isolated and long-term occupation. The legislative system of a country plays an important role in defining and shaping the conditions of people living there. Hence, the aim of the study is to evaluate the readiness of Kazakhstani and the EU construction-related legislation for pandemics. Previously developed pandemic-resilient indicators were used for the evaluation of construction legislation. Both legislative systems were reviewed, and the quality of responses was evaluated by assigning response scores. The results based on response scores indicate that the environmental resource consumption sub-category was better covered by EU legislation. At the same time, the buildings’ health, safety and comfort are better taken into account in Kazakhstani legislation. Seven pandemic-resilient indicators were not responded to by any legislative system indicating a gap between current legislation and requirements for new living conditions. No study has analyzed how COVID-19 can transform construction legislation. The study reveals the limitation of current construction legislation in Kazakhstan (KZ) and the EU, indicating the need for transformation to meet the requirements of the pandemic era.The pandemic readiness assessment of building design and engineering service-related legislation in Kazakhstan and the EU
Galym Tokazhanov, Serik Tokbolat, Aidana Tleuken, Ferhat Karaca
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The current COVID-19 pandemic is influencing our life in every aspect, including working and living environments. Millions of people were forced to isolate themselves in their homes, which has posed significant pressure on buildings and shown us that our dwellings are not designed for such purposes. This is partly due to the fact that homes are designed and built for occasional use rather than isolated and long-term occupation. The legislative system of a country plays an important role in defining and shaping the conditions of people living there. Hence, the aim of the study is to evaluate the readiness of Kazakhstani and the EU construction-related legislation for pandemics.

Previously developed pandemic-resilient indicators were used for the evaluation of construction legislation. Both legislative systems were reviewed, and the quality of responses was evaluated by assigning response scores.

The results based on response scores indicate that the environmental resource consumption sub-category was better covered by EU legislation. At the same time, the buildings’ health, safety and comfort are better taken into account in Kazakhstani legislation. Seven pandemic-resilient indicators were not responded to by any legislative system indicating a gap between current legislation and requirements for new living conditions.

No study has analyzed how COVID-19 can transform construction legislation. The study reveals the limitation of current construction legislation in Kazakhstan (KZ) and the EU, indicating the need for transformation to meet the requirements of the pandemic era.

]]>
The pandemic readiness assessment of building design and engineering service-related legislation in Kazakhstan and the EU10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0661Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-07© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedGalym TokazhanovSerik TokbolatAidana TleukenFerhat KaracaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-0710.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0661https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0661/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Automated 4D BIM development: the resource specification and optimization approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0665/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to develop an automated and optimization algorithms (OAs)-integrated 4D building information modeling (BIM) approach and a prototype and enable construction managers and practitioners to estimate the time of compound elements in building projects using the resource specification technique. A 4D BIM estimation process was first developed by applying the resource specification and geometric information from the BIM model. A suite of OA including particle swarm optimization, ant colony, differential evolution and genetic algorithm were developed and compared in order to facilitate and automate the estimation process. The developed processes and porotypes were linked and integrated. The OA-based automated 4D BIM estimation prototype was developed and validated through a real-life construction project. Different OAs were applied and compared, and the genetic algorithm was found as the best performing one. The prototype was successfully linked with BIM timeliner application. By using this approach, the start and finish dates of all object-based activities are developed, and the project completion time is automatically estimated. Unlike conventional construction estimation methods which need various tools and are error prone and time-consuming, the developed method bypasses the existing time estimation tools and provides the integrated and automated process with BIM and machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, this approach integrates 4D BIM applications into construction design procedures, connected with OA automation.Automated 4D BIM development: the resource specification and optimization approach
Abdulwahed Fazeli, Saeed Banihashemi, Aso Hajirasouli, Saeed Reza Mohandes
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to develop an automated and optimization algorithms (OAs)-integrated 4D building information modeling (BIM) approach and a prototype and enable construction managers and practitioners to estimate the time of compound elements in building projects using the resource specification technique.

A 4D BIM estimation process was first developed by applying the resource specification and geometric information from the BIM model. A suite of OA including particle swarm optimization, ant colony, differential evolution and genetic algorithm were developed and compared in order to facilitate and automate the estimation process. The developed processes and porotypes were linked and integrated.

The OA-based automated 4D BIM estimation prototype was developed and validated through a real-life construction project. Different OAs were applied and compared, and the genetic algorithm was found as the best performing one. The prototype was successfully linked with BIM timeliner application. By using this approach, the start and finish dates of all object-based activities are developed, and the project completion time is automatically estimated.

Unlike conventional construction estimation methods which need various tools and are error prone and time-consuming, the developed method bypasses the existing time estimation tools and provides the integrated and automated process with BIM and machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, this approach integrates 4D BIM applications into construction design procedures, connected with OA automation.

]]>
Automated 4D BIM development: the resource specification and optimization approach10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0665Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-20© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedAbdulwahed FazeliSaeed BanihashemiAso HajirasouliSaeed Reza MohandesEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2010.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0665https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0665/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Cost prediction of building projects using the novel hybrid RA-ANN modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0666/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAccurate and timely cost prediction is critical to the success of construction projects which is still facing challenges especially at the early stage. In the context of rapid development of machine learning technology and the massive cost data from historical projects, this paper aims to propose a novel cost prediction model based on historical data with improved performance when only limited information about the new project is available. The proposed approach combines regression analysis (RA) and artificial neural network (ANN) to build a novel hybrid cost prediction model with the former as front-end prediction and the latter as back-end correction. Firstly, the main factors influencing the cost of building projects are identified through literature research and subsequently screened by principal component analysis (PCA). Secondly the optimal RA model is determined through multi-model comparison and used for front-end prediction. Finally, ANN is applied to construct the error correction model. The hybrid RA-ANN model was trained and tested with cost data from 128 completed construction projects in China. The results show that the hybrid cost prediction model has the advantages of both RA and ANN whose prediction accuracy is higher than that of RA and ANN only with the information such as total floor area, height and number of floors. (1) The most critical influencing factors of the buildings’ cost are found out by means of PCA on the historical data. (2) A novel hybrid RA-ANN model is proposed which proved to have the advantages of both RA and ANN with higher accuracy. (3) The comparison among different models has been carried out which is helpful to future model selection.Cost prediction of building projects using the novel hybrid RA-ANN model
Yali Wang, Jian Zuo, Min Pan, Bocun Tu, Rui-Dong Chang, Shicheng Liu, Feng Xiong, Na Dong
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Accurate and timely cost prediction is critical to the success of construction projects which is still facing challenges especially at the early stage. In the context of rapid development of machine learning technology and the massive cost data from historical projects, this paper aims to propose a novel cost prediction model based on historical data with improved performance when only limited information about the new project is available.

The proposed approach combines regression analysis (RA) and artificial neural network (ANN) to build a novel hybrid cost prediction model with the former as front-end prediction and the latter as back-end correction. Firstly, the main factors influencing the cost of building projects are identified through literature research and subsequently screened by principal component analysis (PCA). Secondly the optimal RA model is determined through multi-model comparison and used for front-end prediction. Finally, ANN is applied to construct the error correction model. The hybrid RA-ANN model was trained and tested with cost data from 128 completed construction projects in China.

The results show that the hybrid cost prediction model has the advantages of both RA and ANN whose prediction accuracy is higher than that of RA and ANN only with the information such as total floor area, height and number of floors.

(1) The most critical influencing factors of the buildings’ cost are found out by means of PCA on the historical data. (2) A novel hybrid RA-ANN model is proposed which proved to have the advantages of both RA and ANN with higher accuracy. (3) The comparison among different models has been carried out which is helpful to future model selection.

]]>
Cost prediction of building projects using the novel hybrid RA-ANN model10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0666Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-24© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYali WangJian ZuoMin PanBocun TuRui-Dong ChangShicheng LiuFeng XiongNa DongEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-2410.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0666https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0666/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Identification and analysis of communication barriers for construction projects with time uncertaintieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0669/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to improve communication success through barrier identification and analysis so that the identified barriers can help project teams establish effective information-exchange strategies. The recent publications on construction communication about time management are reviewed. Then, the semi-structured interviews are performed with both questionnaires and audio recordings (n1 = 18). Next, the collected data are analyzed using both statistical measures on the questionnaire survey and qualitative coding analysis on the text transcripts from an audio recording. Particularly, the identified barriers are substantiated using a scientometrics approach based on the published articles (2011–2020, n2 = 52,915) for purposeful information-sharing solutions in construction time management. Furthermore, the intervention strategies from the top 10 most-cited articles are analyzed and validated by comparisons with the results from construction surveys and relevant studies. Based on the discussed communication difficulties, five main barriers were identified during time-cost risk management: probability and statistical concepts, availability of data from external resources, details of team member experiences, graphics (and graphical presentation skills), and spatial and temporal (a.k.a. 4D) simulation skills. For the improvement of communication skills and presentation quality regarding probability and statistical concepts, project teams should emphasize context awareness, case studies and group discussions. Details of communication techniques can be adjusted based on the backgrounds, experiences and expectations of team members. The dataset n1 has both size and duration limits because of the availability of the invited industry professionals. The dataset n2 considers the literature from 2011 to 2020. Any before-the-date and unpublished studies are not included in the study. A thorough comprehension of communication barriers can help project teams develop speaking, writing and analytical thinking skills that will enable the teams to better deliver ideas, thoughts and meanings. Additionally, the established discussion on barrier-removal strategies may enhance time management effectiveness, reduce project delays, avoid confusion and misunderstanding and save rework costs. This research calls for the awareness of communication barriers in construction project execution and team collaboration. The identified barriers and the established solutions enrich the approaches of construction companies to share information with communities and society. This is the first identification model for communication barriers in the time management of the construction industry to the authors' knowledge. The influencing factors and the countermeasures of communication difficulties highlighted by the research were not examined systematically and holistically in previous studies. The findings provide a new approach to facilitate the development of powerful communication strategies and to improve project execution.Identification and analysis of communication barriers for construction projects with time uncertainties
Haiyan Xie, Ying Hong, Mengyang Xin, Ioannis Brilakis, Owen Shi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to improve communication success through barrier identification and analysis so that the identified barriers can help project teams establish effective information-exchange strategies.

The recent publications on construction communication about time management are reviewed. Then, the semi-structured interviews are performed with both questionnaires and audio recordings (n1 = 18). Next, the collected data are analyzed using both statistical measures on the questionnaire survey and qualitative coding analysis on the text transcripts from an audio recording. Particularly, the identified barriers are substantiated using a scientometrics approach based on the published articles (2011–2020, n2 = 52,915) for purposeful information-sharing solutions in construction time management. Furthermore, the intervention strategies from the top 10 most-cited articles are analyzed and validated by comparisons with the results from construction surveys and relevant studies.

Based on the discussed communication difficulties, five main barriers were identified during time-cost risk management: probability and statistical concepts, availability of data from external resources, details of team member experiences, graphics (and graphical presentation skills), and spatial and temporal (a.k.a. 4D) simulation skills. For the improvement of communication skills and presentation quality regarding probability and statistical concepts, project teams should emphasize context awareness, case studies and group discussions. Details of communication techniques can be adjusted based on the backgrounds, experiences and expectations of team members.

The dataset n1 has both size and duration limits because of the availability of the invited industry professionals. The dataset n2 considers the literature from 2011 to 2020. Any before-the-date and unpublished studies are not included in the study.

A thorough comprehension of communication barriers can help project teams develop speaking, writing and analytical thinking skills that will enable the teams to better deliver ideas, thoughts and meanings. Additionally, the established discussion on barrier-removal strategies may enhance time management effectiveness, reduce project delays, avoid confusion and misunderstanding and save rework costs.

This research calls for the awareness of communication barriers in construction project execution and team collaboration. The identified barriers and the established solutions enrich the approaches of construction companies to share information with communities and society.

This is the first identification model for communication barriers in the time management of the construction industry to the authors' knowledge. The influencing factors and the countermeasures of communication difficulties highlighted by the research were not examined systematically and holistically in previous studies. The findings provide a new approach to facilitate the development of powerful communication strategies and to improve project execution.

]]>
Identification and analysis of communication barriers for construction projects with time uncertainties10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0669Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHaiyan XieYing HongMengyang XinIoannis BrilakisOwen ShiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2810.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0669https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0669/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Inclusion of “managing flexibility” valuations in the pricing of PPP projects: a multi-objective decision-making methodhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0672/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe Public–Private Partnership (PPP) modality plays an important role in the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Regarding PPP's complex transaction structure, pricing of a PPP project is critical to both parties where the government pursues a high value for money (VFM) and the investor strives to maximize its financial gains. Despite the straightforward win–win principle, a formidable compromise is often the case to end up with a fairly acceptable price, subject to many determinants such as the risk profile, expected return, technological innovation and capacities of both parties. Among them, this study chooses to examine the “managing flexibility” (MF) capacity of investors in pricing of a PPP project, in light of the widely recognized importance of a real-option perspective toward the long term, complex and uncertain PPP arrangement. This study addresses two major questions: (1) how is MF in PPP projects to be valued and (2) how are PPP projects to be priced when considering a project's MF value. A binomial tree model is used to evaluate the MF value in PPP projects. Based on the developed MF pricing model, net present value (NPV) and adjusted VFM value are then calculated. Finally, a multi-objective decision-making method (MODM) was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns based on invested capital (ROIC), return on operation maintenance (ROOM) and concession period. The applicability and functionality of the proposed model is investigated using a real project case. For a given return, extended NPV and adjusted VFM value were calculated and analyzed using sensitivity analysis. Factor influence is shown by the model to be dependent on factor impact on cash flow. Subsequently, a multi-objective decision-making (MODM) model was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns, where the solution approximates the real-world bidding price. Results confirm that the pricing model provides a reliable and practical PPP proposal pricing tool. This study proposes an integrated framework for valuing MF in PPP projects and thus more accurately determine optimal pricing of PPP projects than revealed in extant research. The model offers a practical tool to aid in the valuation of PPP projects.Inclusion of “managing flexibility” valuations in the pricing of PPP projects: a multi-objective decision-making method
Yubo Guo, Yangyang Su, Chuan Chen, Igor Martek
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The Public–Private Partnership (PPP) modality plays an important role in the procurement of global infrastructure projects. Regarding PPP's complex transaction structure, pricing of a PPP project is critical to both parties where the government pursues a high value for money (VFM) and the investor strives to maximize its financial gains. Despite the straightforward win–win principle, a formidable compromise is often the case to end up with a fairly acceptable price, subject to many determinants such as the risk profile, expected return, technological innovation and capacities of both parties. Among them, this study chooses to examine the “managing flexibility” (MF) capacity of investors in pricing of a PPP project, in light of the widely recognized importance of a real-option perspective toward the long term, complex and uncertain PPP arrangement. This study addresses two major questions: (1) how is MF in PPP projects to be valued and (2) how are PPP projects to be priced when considering a project's MF value.

A binomial tree model is used to evaluate the MF value in PPP projects. Based on the developed MF pricing model, net present value (NPV) and adjusted VFM value are then calculated. Finally, a multi-objective decision-making method (MODM) was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns based on invested capital (ROIC), return on operation maintenance (ROOM) and concession period.

The applicability and functionality of the proposed model is investigated using a real project case. For a given return, extended NPV and adjusted VFM value were calculated and analyzed using sensitivity analysis. Factor influence is shown by the model to be dependent on factor impact on cash flow. Subsequently, a multi-objective decision-making (MODM) model was adopted to determine the optimal level of returns, where the solution approximates the real-world bidding price. Results confirm that the pricing model provides a reliable and practical PPP proposal pricing tool.

This study proposes an integrated framework for valuing MF in PPP projects and thus more accurately determine optimal pricing of PPP projects than revealed in extant research. The model offers a practical tool to aid in the valuation of PPP projects.

]]>
Inclusion of “managing flexibility” valuations in the pricing of PPP projects: a multi-objective decision-making method10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0672Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYubo GuoYangyang SuChuan ChenIgor MartekEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2610.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0672https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0672/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Formalizing the information requirements for decision-making of field managers during indoor construction activitieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0674/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInformation technology provides important support for on-site decision-making of field personnel. Most literature focuses on the technological aspects of decision-support systems, without fully understanding the information required for effective decision-making. This study aimed to formalize decision-makers’ requirements in terms of the major goals, decisions and information. The situation awareness (SA) approach was applied through the goal-directed task analysis (GDTA) method, narrowing the scope to field managers’ decision-making during indoor construction activities. This method was based on a series of interviews to define, revise and validate the decision-making requirements for the given scope. The study yielded 1,056 highly interrelated elements. The results indicate that the field manager’s overall goal is to execute and handoff work within the established deadlines, with the required quality, maximizing profits, within a safe work environment. The overall goal construes into five main goals regarding work progress, quality, costs, safety and communication. These goals include subgoals, decisions, and the information necessary to attain them, depicted in diagrams. The findings allow enhancing the design of decision-support solutions by identifying information required for future developments and showing the interrelations between goals and information requirements that need to be addressed to present interfaces for effectively assisting on-site decision-making. Moreover, the results allow for the assessment of solutions regarding the sufficiency of information. This is the first effort to fully understand the information required by field managers for on-site decision-making during indoor construction activities.Formalizing the information requirements for decision-making of field managers during indoor construction activities
Ernesto Pillajo, Claudio Mourgues, Vicente A. González
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Information technology provides important support for on-site decision-making of field personnel. Most literature focuses on the technological aspects of decision-support systems, without fully understanding the information required for effective decision-making. This study aimed to formalize decision-makers’ requirements in terms of the major goals, decisions and information.

The situation awareness (SA) approach was applied through the goal-directed task analysis (GDTA) method, narrowing the scope to field managers’ decision-making during indoor construction activities. This method was based on a series of interviews to define, revise and validate the decision-making requirements for the given scope.

The study yielded 1,056 highly interrelated elements. The results indicate that the field manager’s overall goal is to execute and handoff work within the established deadlines, with the required quality, maximizing profits, within a safe work environment. The overall goal construes into five main goals regarding work progress, quality, costs, safety and communication. These goals include subgoals, decisions, and the information necessary to attain them, depicted in diagrams.

The findings allow enhancing the design of decision-support solutions by identifying information required for future developments and showing the interrelations between goals and information requirements that need to be addressed to present interfaces for effectively assisting on-site decision-making. Moreover, the results allow for the assessment of solutions regarding the sufficiency of information.

This is the first effort to fully understand the information required by field managers for on-site decision-making during indoor construction activities.

]]>
Formalizing the information requirements for decision-making of field managers during indoor construction activities10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0674Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-17© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedErnesto PillajoClaudio MourguesVicente A. GonzálezEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1710.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0674https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0674/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Analysis of critical factors influencing sustainable infrastructure vulnerabilities using an ISM-MICMAC approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0690/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to develop a new hybrid method that combines interpretative structural modeling (ISM) and matrix cross-impact multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) to investigate the influencing factors of sustainable infrastructure vulnerability (SIV). (1) Literature review and case study were used to identify the possible influencing factors; (2) a semi-structured interview was conducted to identify representative factors and the interrelationships among influencing factors; (3) ISM was adopted to identify the hierarchical structure of factors; (4) MICMAC was used to analyze the driving power (DRP) and dependence power (DEP) of each factor and (5) Semi-structured interview was used to propose strategies for overcoming SIV. Results indicate that (1) 18 representative factors related to SIV were identified; (2) the relationship between these factors was divided into a five-layer hierarchical structure. The 18 representative factors were divided into driving factors, dependent factors, linkage factors and independent factors and (3) 12 strategies were presented to address the negative effects of these factors. The findings illustrate the factors influencing SIV and their hierarchical structures, which can benefit the stakeholders and practitioners of an infrastructure project by encouraging them to take effective countermeasures to deal with related SIVs.Analysis of critical factors influencing sustainable infrastructure vulnerabilities using an ISM-MICMAC approach
Luwei Zhao, Qing’e Wang, Bon-Gang Hwang, Alice Yan Chang-Richards
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to develop a new hybrid method that combines interpretative structural modeling (ISM) and matrix cross-impact multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) to investigate the influencing factors of sustainable infrastructure vulnerability (SIV).

(1) Literature review and case study were used to identify the possible influencing factors; (2) a semi-structured interview was conducted to identify representative factors and the interrelationships among influencing factors; (3) ISM was adopted to identify the hierarchical structure of factors; (4) MICMAC was used to analyze the driving power (DRP) and dependence power (DEP) of each factor and (5) Semi-structured interview was used to propose strategies for overcoming SIV.

Results indicate that (1) 18 representative factors related to SIV were identified; (2) the relationship between these factors was divided into a five-layer hierarchical structure. The 18 representative factors were divided into driving factors, dependent factors, linkage factors and independent factors and (3) 12 strategies were presented to address the negative effects of these factors.

The findings illustrate the factors influencing SIV and their hierarchical structures, which can benefit the stakeholders and practitioners of an infrastructure project by encouraging them to take effective countermeasures to deal with related SIVs.

]]>
Analysis of critical factors influencing sustainable infrastructure vulnerabilities using an ISM-MICMAC approach10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0690Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-06© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedLuwei ZhaoQing’e WangBon-Gang HwangAlice Yan Chang-RichardsEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0610.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0690https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0690/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barriers to innovation in construction organizations of different sizes: a case study in Vietnamhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0701/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to determine barriers to innovation and to develop a quantitative model for the barrier to innovation in Vietnamese construction organizations of different sizes. A literature review and discussions with experienced practitioners were implemented to determine barriers to innovation in construction organizations. The rank-based non-parametric test analyzed collected data from a questionnaire survey to examine if there were significant differences between the three groups of organizations, including small, medium and large construction organizations. The fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) technique was employed to develop barrier indexes (BIs) for organizations of different sizes in Vietnam. The findings showed 17 barriers to innovation which were categorized into four groups, including organizational, human resources, economic and market barriers. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences regarding barriers to innovation between small, medium and large construction organizations in Vietnam. The post hoc test highlighted barriers to innovation differently separated into two groups: SMEs and large construction organizations. The FSE analysis integrated the identified barriers into the comprehensive BIs for SMEs and large construction organizations. The FSE analysis illustrated that the organizational barrier is the most critical barrier for SMEs. On the other hand, the market barrier received the most significant attention in large construction organizations. This research is one of the first integrated barriers to innovation into a comprehensive formulation. The indexes provide the decision-makers with a practical and reliable tool to evaluate barriers to innovation in construction organizations of different sizes.Barriers to innovation in construction organizations of different sizes: a case study in Vietnam
Minh Van Nguyen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to determine barriers to innovation and to develop a quantitative model for the barrier to innovation in Vietnamese construction organizations of different sizes.

A literature review and discussions with experienced practitioners were implemented to determine barriers to innovation in construction organizations. The rank-based non-parametric test analyzed collected data from a questionnaire survey to examine if there were significant differences between the three groups of organizations, including small, medium and large construction organizations. The fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) technique was employed to develop barrier indexes (BIs) for organizations of different sizes in Vietnam.

The findings showed 17 barriers to innovation which were categorized into four groups, including organizational, human resources, economic and market barriers. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences regarding barriers to innovation between small, medium and large construction organizations in Vietnam. The post hoc test highlighted barriers to innovation differently separated into two groups: SMEs and large construction organizations. The FSE analysis integrated the identified barriers into the comprehensive BIs for SMEs and large construction organizations. The FSE analysis illustrated that the organizational barrier is the most critical barrier for SMEs. On the other hand, the market barrier received the most significant attention in large construction organizations.

This research is one of the first integrated barriers to innovation into a comprehensive formulation. The indexes provide the decision-makers with a practical and reliable tool to evaluate barriers to innovation in construction organizations of different sizes.

]]>
Barriers to innovation in construction organizations of different sizes: a case study in Vietnam10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0701Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-24© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMinh Van NguyenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-2410.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0701https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2022-0701/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How optimal trust–dependence nexus facilitates relational behavior in contractor–subcontractor collaboration: a configurational analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0653/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAlthough trust is generally taken as a fundamental factor in influencing relational behavior in contractor–subcontractor collaboration, the determination of an optimal level of trust is still lacking. Trust with an optimal tipping point that matches dependence best is considered the optimal trust to improve relational behavior between general contractors and subcontractors. To fill the knowledge gap, this study explores how combinations of trust and dependence trigger relational behavior between general contractors and subcontractors through a configurational approach. Questionnaires were administered to 228 middle management and technical staff members of the general contractor. The data were analyzed using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), and the inductive analytic method allowed researchers to explore configurations of different dimensions and levels of dependence and trust. Necessity analysis results indicated that neither dependence nor trust was a necessary condition for facilitating relational behavior. Through sufficiency analysis, four configurations of optimal trust matched with dependence were identified in contractor–subcontractor collaboration. Even if contractors rely only on subcontractors for resources, the optimal trust between contractors and subcontractors should include both institution- and cognition-based trust. In the event that contractor–subcontractor collaboration involves relational dependence, both affect- and cognition-based trust are necessary for the optimal trust. This study enhances existing research by delving deeper into a nuanced understanding of optimal trust in dependence scenarios, and enriches project governance theory by uncovering the internal transmission of relational governance. Practically, this study offers general contractors guidance on how to establish optimal trust strategies based on the dual dependence level with subcontractors, which can facilitate subcontractors' relational behavior, and ultimately improve contractor–subcontractor collaboration performance.How optimal trust–dependence nexus facilitates relational behavior in contractor–subcontractor collaboration: a configurational analysis
Shaoyan Wu, Mengxiao Liu, Duo Zhao, Tingting Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Although trust is generally taken as a fundamental factor in influencing relational behavior in contractor–subcontractor collaboration, the determination of an optimal level of trust is still lacking. Trust with an optimal tipping point that matches dependence best is considered the optimal trust to improve relational behavior between general contractors and subcontractors. To fill the knowledge gap, this study explores how combinations of trust and dependence trigger relational behavior between general contractors and subcontractors through a configurational approach.

Questionnaires were administered to 228 middle management and technical staff members of the general contractor. The data were analyzed using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), and the inductive analytic method allowed researchers to explore configurations of different dimensions and levels of dependence and trust.

Necessity analysis results indicated that neither dependence nor trust was a necessary condition for facilitating relational behavior. Through sufficiency analysis, four configurations of optimal trust matched with dependence were identified in contractor–subcontractor collaboration. Even if contractors rely only on subcontractors for resources, the optimal trust between contractors and subcontractors should include both institution- and cognition-based trust. In the event that contractor–subcontractor collaboration involves relational dependence, both affect- and cognition-based trust are necessary for the optimal trust.

This study enhances existing research by delving deeper into a nuanced understanding of optimal trust in dependence scenarios, and enriches project governance theory by uncovering the internal transmission of relational governance. Practically, this study offers general contractors guidance on how to establish optimal trust strategies based on the dual dependence level with subcontractors, which can facilitate subcontractors' relational behavior, and ultimately improve contractor–subcontractor collaboration performance.

]]>
How optimal trust–dependence nexus facilitates relational behavior in contractor–subcontractor collaboration: a configurational analysis10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0653Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-19© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedShaoyan WuMengxiao LiuDuo ZhaoTingting CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-1910.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0653https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0653/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Life cycle sustainability tracker: a dynamic approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0680/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper bridges the gap between the theory and practice by developing a life cycle sustainability tracker (LCST). The study is seeking to proffer solutions to an observed shortcoming of conventional life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) communication platforms. Notably, the static nature of the information provided on such platforms has made it difficult for them to be used for real-time decision-making and predictions. The main aim of this paper is to develop a LCST that facilitates a dynamic visualisation of life cycle sustainability results and allows for an integrated benchmark across the dimensions of sustainability. The study leverages the model development capabilities of the design science research strategy in accomplishing a dynamic and novel communication platform. A life cycle thinking methodology and appropriate multicriteria decision approach (MCDA) is applied to accomplish a comprehensive, streamlined and replicable approach in mapping and tracking the progress of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) projects in India. It was found that: (1) The use of the LCST tracker provides a dynamic and holistic insight into the key LCSA indicators with clearly defined benchmarks to assess the impact on the SDG 11, (2) The NIP projects achieve an upward trend across all the regions, and the percentage of opportunities ranges from 11 to 24%, with the South experiencing the highest growth and the North having the minimal increase in percentage and (3) The assessment score (52–58%) provides performance metrics that align well with the LCST – which ranges between “Fair” and “Average” for all the regions in India. The novelty of this research is that the LCST provides a transparent and harmonised approach to reporting on the LCSA results. The LCST utilises heat maps and radial mapping to achieve an intuitive display of large amounts of highly heterogeneous data, thus allowing the synthesis of large sets of information compactly and with coherence. Progress towards the SDGs change on a yearly basis; hence, a dynamic LCSA tool provides a timely and the valuable context to map and track performance across different regions and contexts.Life cycle sustainability tracker: a dynamic approach
Olubukola Tokede, Anastasia Globa
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper bridges the gap between the theory and practice by developing a life cycle sustainability tracker (LCST). The study is seeking to proffer solutions to an observed shortcoming of conventional life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) communication platforms. Notably, the static nature of the information provided on such platforms has made it difficult for them to be used for real-time decision-making and predictions. The main aim of this paper is to develop a LCST that facilitates a dynamic visualisation of life cycle sustainability results and allows for an integrated benchmark across the dimensions of sustainability.

The study leverages the model development capabilities of the design science research strategy in accomplishing a dynamic and novel communication platform. A life cycle thinking methodology and appropriate multicriteria decision approach (MCDA) is applied to accomplish a comprehensive, streamlined and replicable approach in mapping and tracking the progress of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) projects in India.

It was found that: (1) The use of the LCST tracker provides a dynamic and holistic insight into the key LCSA indicators with clearly defined benchmarks to assess the impact on the SDG 11, (2) The NIP projects achieve an upward trend across all the regions, and the percentage of opportunities ranges from 11 to 24%, with the South experiencing the highest growth and the North having the minimal increase in percentage and (3) The assessment score (52–58%) provides performance metrics that align well with the LCST – which ranges between “Fair” and “Average” for all the regions in India.

The novelty of this research is that the LCST provides a transparent and harmonised approach to reporting on the LCSA results. The LCST utilises heat maps and radial mapping to achieve an intuitive display of large amounts of highly heterogeneous data, thus allowing the synthesis of large sets of information compactly and with coherence. Progress towards the SDGs change on a yearly basis; hence, a dynamic LCSA tool provides a timely and the valuable context to map and track performance across different regions and contexts.

]]>
Life cycle sustainability tracker: a dynamic approach10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0680Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-31© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedOlubukola TokedeAnastasia GlobaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-3110.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0680https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0680/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Collaborations between industry and academia for future workforce development: construction practitioners’ perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0683/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThere is a growing mismatch between the skill demands of the industry and the offerings of academia. One way of reducing this mismatch is by improving collaborations between practitioners and instructors using web-networking platforms. However, it is important to understand practitioners’ considerations while collaborating with instructors. Therefore, this study identified these considerations in order to infer inputs for the design of the graphical user interface (GUI) of a web-based platform for connecting instructors and practitioners. A mixed method was adopted through a survey and focus group. A survey was used to capture practitioners’ considerations while collaborating with instructors for student development, and a focus group helped uncover an in-depth understanding of the study phenomena. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic analysis. The results show the willingness of practitioners to collaborate with instructors for student development, the ways by which practitioners are willing to meet instructors' course-support needs and their considerations in deciding to do so. Slight differences were observed between the results of the survey and the focus group regarding the ranking of the practitioners’ considerations. The study highlighted demographic differences in practitioners’ considerations when deciding on meeting instructors' course-support needs. The results provide a basis to deduce the GUI inputs of web-networking platforms for connecting instructors and practitioners. This study revealed practitioners’ design needs and GUI inputs to facilitate the design of web-networking platforms for connecting instructors and practitioners. This study also contributes to user interface design principles, theories on individual differences and practitioners’ involvement in student professional development.Collaborations between industry and academia for future workforce development: construction practitioners’ perspective
Anthony Olukayode Yusuf, Adedeji Afolabi, Abiola Akanmu, Homero Murzi, Andres Nieto Leal, Sheryl Ball, Andrea Ofori-Boadu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

There is a growing mismatch between the skill demands of the industry and the offerings of academia. One way of reducing this mismatch is by improving collaborations between practitioners and instructors using web-networking platforms. However, it is important to understand practitioners’ considerations while collaborating with instructors. Therefore, this study identified these considerations in order to infer inputs for the design of the graphical user interface (GUI) of a web-based platform for connecting instructors and practitioners.

A mixed method was adopted through a survey and focus group. A survey was used to capture practitioners’ considerations while collaborating with instructors for student development, and a focus group helped uncover an in-depth understanding of the study phenomena. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic analysis.

The results show the willingness of practitioners to collaborate with instructors for student development, the ways by which practitioners are willing to meet instructors' course-support needs and their considerations in deciding to do so. Slight differences were observed between the results of the survey and the focus group regarding the ranking of the practitioners’ considerations. The study highlighted demographic differences in practitioners’ considerations when deciding on meeting instructors' course-support needs. The results provide a basis to deduce the GUI inputs of web-networking platforms for connecting instructors and practitioners.

This study revealed practitioners’ design needs and GUI inputs to facilitate the design of web-networking platforms for connecting instructors and practitioners. This study also contributes to user interface design principles, theories on individual differences and practitioners’ involvement in student professional development.

]]>
Collaborations between industry and academia for future workforce development: construction practitioners’ perspective10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0683Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-06© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedAnthony Olukayode YusufAdedeji AfolabiAbiola AkanmuHomero MurziAndres Nieto LealSheryl BallAndrea Ofori-BoaduEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0610.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0683https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0683/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
External drivers of inter-organizational collaboration in megaproject: a perspective based on project governancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0688/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInter-organizational collaboration is the organizational guarantee and key link to achieve the goals of megaproject management. Project governance has always played an important role in the construction of megaprojects, but the relationship between project governance and organizational collaboration is unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the role paths of different project governance mechanisms in influencing the collaborative behaviors of stakeholders and collaborative performance and to elucidate the mechanism of project governance on inter-organizational collaboration. A conceptual framework was developed based on a comprehensive literature review, termed the structural equation model (SEM). The hypotheses of the model were tested based on data obtained from a questionnaire survey of 235 experts with experience in megaprojects within the construction industry in China. The results show that project governance positively contributes to the collaborative behavior of megaproject stakeholders and the collaborative performance of the project team. Collaborative behavior acts as a partial mediator between project governance and the collaborative performance of the megaproject inter-organization alliance. The complexity of the project modulates the relationship between the governance mechanism of the project and the collaborative behavior of the stakeholders, which affects the collaborative performance of the megaproject inter-organization alliance. The findings provide theoretical and practical implications for promoting positive collaborative behavior among stakeholders in megaproject selection and improving the collaborative performance of megaproject inter-organization alliances.External drivers of inter-organizational collaboration in megaproject: a perspective based on project governance
Kai Liu, Yuming Liu, Yuanyuan Kou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Inter-organizational collaboration is the organizational guarantee and key link to achieve the goals of megaproject management. Project governance has always played an important role in the construction of megaprojects, but the relationship between project governance and organizational collaboration is unclear. The purpose of this study is to explore the role paths of different project governance mechanisms in influencing the collaborative behaviors of stakeholders and collaborative performance and to elucidate the mechanism of project governance on inter-organizational collaboration.

A conceptual framework was developed based on a comprehensive literature review, termed the structural equation model (SEM). The hypotheses of the model were tested based on data obtained from a questionnaire survey of 235 experts with experience in megaprojects within the construction industry in China.

The results show that project governance positively contributes to the collaborative behavior of megaproject stakeholders and the collaborative performance of the project team. Collaborative behavior acts as a partial mediator between project governance and the collaborative performance of the megaproject inter-organization alliance. The complexity of the project modulates the relationship between the governance mechanism of the project and the collaborative behavior of the stakeholders, which affects the collaborative performance of the megaproject inter-organization alliance.

The findings provide theoretical and practical implications for promoting positive collaborative behavior among stakeholders in megaproject selection and improving the collaborative performance of megaproject inter-organization alliances.

]]>
External drivers of inter-organizational collaboration in megaproject: a perspective based on project governance10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0688Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedKai LiuYuming LiuYuanyuan KouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2610.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0688https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0688/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Intelligent inspection of appearance quality for precast concrete components based on improved YOLO model and multi-source datahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0705/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMonitoring of the quality of precast concrete (PC) components is crucial for the success of prefabricated construction projects. Currently, quality monitoring of PC components during the construction phase is predominantly done manually, resulting in low efficiency and hindering the progress of intelligent construction. This paper presents an intelligent inspection method for assessing the appearance quality of PC components, utilizing an enhanced you look only once (YOLO) model and multi-source data. The aim of this research is to achieve automated management of the appearance quality of precast components in the prefabricated construction process through digital means. The paper begins by establishing an improved YOLO model and an image dataset for evaluating appearance quality. Through object detection in the images, a preliminary and efficient assessment of the precast components' appearance quality is achieved. Moreover, the detection results are mapped onto the point cloud for high-precision quality inspection. In the case of precast components with quality defects, precise quality inspection is conducted by combining the three-dimensional model data obtained from forward design conversion with the captured point cloud data through registration. Additionally, the paper proposes a framework for an automated inspection platform dedicated to assessing appearance quality in prefabricated buildings, encompassing the platform's hardware network. The improved YOLO model achieved a best mean average precision of 85.02% on the VOC2007 dataset, surpassing the performance of most similar models. After targeted training, the model exhibits excellent recognition capabilities for the four common appearance quality defects. When mapped onto the point cloud, the accuracy of quality inspection based on point cloud data and forward design is within 0.1 mm. The appearance quality inspection platform enables feedback and optimization of quality issues. The proposed method in this study enables high-precision, visualized and automated detection of the appearance quality of PC components. It effectively meets the demand for quality inspection of precast components on construction sites of prefabricated buildings, providing technological support for the development of intelligent construction. The design of the appearance quality inspection platform's logic and framework facilitates the integration of the method, laying the foundation for efficient quality management in the future.Intelligent inspection of appearance quality for precast concrete components based on improved YOLO model and multi-source data
Yangze Liang, Zhao Xu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Monitoring of the quality of precast concrete (PC) components is crucial for the success of prefabricated construction projects. Currently, quality monitoring of PC components during the construction phase is predominantly done manually, resulting in low efficiency and hindering the progress of intelligent construction. This paper presents an intelligent inspection method for assessing the appearance quality of PC components, utilizing an enhanced you look only once (YOLO) model and multi-source data. The aim of this research is to achieve automated management of the appearance quality of precast components in the prefabricated construction process through digital means.

The paper begins by establishing an improved YOLO model and an image dataset for evaluating appearance quality. Through object detection in the images, a preliminary and efficient assessment of the precast components' appearance quality is achieved. Moreover, the detection results are mapped onto the point cloud for high-precision quality inspection. In the case of precast components with quality defects, precise quality inspection is conducted by combining the three-dimensional model data obtained from forward design conversion with the captured point cloud data through registration. Additionally, the paper proposes a framework for an automated inspection platform dedicated to assessing appearance quality in prefabricated buildings, encompassing the platform's hardware network.

The improved YOLO model achieved a best mean average precision of 85.02% on the VOC2007 dataset, surpassing the performance of most similar models. After targeted training, the model exhibits excellent recognition capabilities for the four common appearance quality defects. When mapped onto the point cloud, the accuracy of quality inspection based on point cloud data and forward design is within 0.1 mm. The appearance quality inspection platform enables feedback and optimization of quality issues.

The proposed method in this study enables high-precision, visualized and automated detection of the appearance quality of PC components. It effectively meets the demand for quality inspection of precast components on construction sites of prefabricated buildings, providing technological support for the development of intelligent construction. The design of the appearance quality inspection platform's logic and framework facilitates the integration of the method, laying the foundation for efficient quality management in the future.

]]>
Intelligent inspection of appearance quality for precast concrete components based on improved YOLO model and multi-source data10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0705Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYangze LiangZhao XuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3110.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0705https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0705/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influence of policies on stakeholders to drive the success of modular integrated construction in Hong Konghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0740/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestModular integrated construction (MiC) is an innovative and effective manufacturing-based method of construction that has become the mainstream development direction of projects in Hong Kong (HK). However, large-scale promotion of MiC practice still needs efforts. A pressing concern is that the impact of relevant policies on stakeholders during project implementation is rarely explored in depth. Therefore, to fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the influence of policies on stakeholders to drive the successful implementation of MiC in HK. This study uses a strategy of multiple methods. First, a comprehensively literature review and survey were adopted to identify critical policies and stakeholders. Second, semi-structured interviews with 28 experts were conducted to quantify their relationships. Third, three policy–stakeholder networks at initiation, planning and design and construction stages were established using social network analysis. Environmental protection policy, COVID-19 pandemic policy and environmental protection policy and quality acceptance standard for project completion are found to be the most important policies of the three stages, respectively. The HK government and developers are highlighted as prominent stakeholders influencing policy implementation at all three stages. The dynamics of the influence stakeholders receive from critical policies at different stages of MiC are discussed. Valuable recommendations are accordingly proposed to enhance the successful implementation of MiC projects from the perspective of various stakeholders. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by considering the mediating influence of stakeholders during policy implementation in the MiC uptake, and is valuable in helping policymakers to deeply understand the influence of policies to further forward successful MiC implementation and practicality in HK.Influence of policies on stakeholders to drive the success of modular integrated construction in Hong Kong
Xin Jin, Geoffrey Shen, Lizi Luo, Xin Zhou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Modular integrated construction (MiC) is an innovative and effective manufacturing-based method of construction that has become the mainstream development direction of projects in Hong Kong (HK). However, large-scale promotion of MiC practice still needs efforts. A pressing concern is that the impact of relevant policies on stakeholders during project implementation is rarely explored in depth. Therefore, to fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the influence of policies on stakeholders to drive the successful implementation of MiC in HK.

This study uses a strategy of multiple methods. First, a comprehensively literature review and survey were adopted to identify critical policies and stakeholders. Second, semi-structured interviews with 28 experts were conducted to quantify their relationships. Third, three policy–stakeholder networks at initiation, planning and design and construction stages were established using social network analysis.

Environmental protection policy, COVID-19 pandemic policy and environmental protection policy and quality acceptance standard for project completion are found to be the most important policies of the three stages, respectively. The HK government and developers are highlighted as prominent stakeholders influencing policy implementation at all three stages. The dynamics of the influence stakeholders receive from critical policies at different stages of MiC are discussed. Valuable recommendations are accordingly proposed to enhance the successful implementation of MiC projects from the perspective of various stakeholders.

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by considering the mediating influence of stakeholders during policy implementation in the MiC uptake, and is valuable in helping policymakers to deeply understand the influence of policies to further forward successful MiC implementation and practicality in HK.

]]>
Influence of policies on stakeholders to drive the success of modular integrated construction in Hong Kong10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0740Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-22© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXin JinGeoffrey ShenLizi LuoXin ZhouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2210.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0740https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0740/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A configuration analysis on knowledge transfer between projects: from horizontal and vertical perspectiveshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0743/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the knowledge transfer between projects has received increasing attention from scholars, few scholars still conduct comprehensive research on inter-project knowledge transfer from both horizontal and vertical perspectives. Besides, knowledge transfer is affected by multiple antecedent conditions, and these factors should be combined for analysis. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method from both horizontal and vertical perspectives and how these factors combine to improve the effectiveness of knowledge transfer (EKT) between projects. First, nine factors affecting knowledge transfer between projects were identified, which were from the four dimensions of subject, relationship, channel, and context, namely temporary nature (TN), time urgency (TU), transmit willingness (TW), receive willingness (RW), trust (TR), project-project transfer channels (PPC), project-enterprise transfer channels (PEC), organizational atmosphere (OA), and motivation system (MS). Then, the source of the samples was determined and the data from the respondents was collected for analysis. Following the operation steps of the fsQCA method, variable calibration, single condition necessity analysis, and configuration analysis were carried out. After that, the configurations of influencing factors were obtained and the robustness test was conducted. The results of the fsQCA method show that there are five configurations that can obtain better EKT between projects. Configuration 3 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * TR * ∼PPC * PEC * MS) has the highest consistency, indicating that it has the highest degree of the explanatory variable subset. Configuration 1 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * PEC * OA * MS) has the highest coverage, meaning that this configuration can explain most cases. Also, the five configurations were divided into three types: vertical transfer, horizontal-vertical transfer, and channel-free transfer category. Firstly, this study explores the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects from four dimensions, which presents the logical chain of influencing factors more clearly. Then, this study divided the five configurations obtained into three categories according to the transfer direction: vertical, horizontal-vertical, and channel-free transfer, which gives implications to focus on both horizontal knowledge transfer (HKT) and (VKT) when studying knowledge transfer between projects. Lastly, this study helps to realize the exploration of combined improvement strategies for EKT, thereby providing meaningful recommendations for enterprises and project teams to facilitate knowledge transfer between projects.A configuration analysis on knowledge transfer between projects: from horizontal and vertical perspectives
Qianwen Zhou, Xiaopeng Deng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the knowledge transfer between projects has received increasing attention from scholars, few scholars still conduct comprehensive research on inter-project knowledge transfer from both horizontal and vertical perspectives. Besides, knowledge transfer is affected by multiple antecedent conditions, and these factors should be combined for analysis. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method from both horizontal and vertical perspectives and how these factors combine to improve the effectiveness of knowledge transfer (EKT) between projects.

First, nine factors affecting knowledge transfer between projects were identified, which were from the four dimensions of subject, relationship, channel, and context, namely temporary nature (TN), time urgency (TU), transmit willingness (TW), receive willingness (RW), trust (TR), project-project transfer channels (PPC), project-enterprise transfer channels (PEC), organizational atmosphere (OA), and motivation system (MS). Then, the source of the samples was determined and the data from the respondents was collected for analysis. Following the operation steps of the fsQCA method, variable calibration, single condition necessity analysis, and configuration analysis were carried out. After that, the configurations of influencing factors were obtained and the robustness test was conducted.

The results of the fsQCA method show that there are five configurations that can obtain better EKT between projects. Configuration 3 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * TR * ∼PPC * PEC * MS) has the highest consistency, indicating that it has the highest degree of the explanatory variable subset. Configuration 1 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * PEC * OA * MS) has the highest coverage, meaning that this configuration can explain most cases. Also, the five configurations were divided into three types: vertical transfer, horizontal-vertical transfer, and channel-free transfer category.

Firstly, this study explores the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects from four dimensions, which presents the logical chain of influencing factors more clearly. Then, this study divided the five configurations obtained into three categories according to the transfer direction: vertical, horizontal-vertical, and channel-free transfer, which gives implications to focus on both horizontal knowledge transfer (HKT) and (VKT) when studying knowledge transfer between projects. Lastly, this study helps to realize the exploration of combined improvement strategies for EKT, thereby providing meaningful recommendations for enterprises and project teams to facilitate knowledge transfer between projects.

]]>
A configuration analysis on knowledge transfer between projects: from horizontal and vertical perspectives10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0743Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-27© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedQianwen ZhouXiaopeng DengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2710.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0743https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0743/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
How do different management control configurations influence construction safety professionals' work attitudeshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0745/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSafety professionals' primary job is to execute safety control measures towards frontline personnel, and previous studies focus on the effectiveness of such controls. Rare research efforts, however, have been devoted to the effectiveness of management control measures towards safety professionals themselves. This study aimed to fill up this knowledge gap by examining whether safety professionals under differing management control configurations differ in their work attitudes, including affective commitment, job satisfaction, career commitment and intention to quit. Drawing on a holistic view of control, five forms of management control, i.e. outcome control, process control, capability control, professional control and reinforcement, were investigated. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey targeting at construction safety professionals was conducted. The latent profile analysis approach was employed to identify how the five forms of management control are configured, i.e. identifying the distinctive patterns of control profiles. The Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars method was then used to examine whether safety professionals' work attitudes were different across the identified control profiles. Seven distinct control profiles were extracted from the sample of 475 construction safety professionals. The overall test of outcome means showed that mean levels of affective commitment, job satisfaction and intentions to quit were significantly different across the seven profiles. The largest that was also the most desirable subgroup was the high control profile (n = 161, 33.9%). The least desirable subgroups included the low control profile (n = 75, 15.8%) and the low capability and professional control profile (n = 12, 2.5%). Pairwise comparison suggested that capability, professional and process controls were more effective than outcome control and reinforcement. In theory, this study contributes to the burgeoning literature on how to improve the effectiveness of control measures targeted at safety professionals. The results suggested that effective management controls involve a fine combination of formal, informal, process and output controls. In practice, this study uncovers the ways in which managers leverage the efforts of safety professionals in achieving safety goals. Particularly, it informs managers that the control configurations, instead of isolated controls, should be executed to motivate safety professionals.How do different management control configurations influence construction safety professionals' work attitudes
Chuanjing Ju, Yan Ning, Yuzhong Shen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Safety professionals' primary job is to execute safety control measures towards frontline personnel, and previous studies focus on the effectiveness of such controls. Rare research efforts, however, have been devoted to the effectiveness of management control measures towards safety professionals themselves. This study aimed to fill up this knowledge gap by examining whether safety professionals under differing management control configurations differ in their work attitudes, including affective commitment, job satisfaction, career commitment and intention to quit.

Drawing on a holistic view of control, five forms of management control, i.e. outcome control, process control, capability control, professional control and reinforcement, were investigated. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey targeting at construction safety professionals was conducted. The latent profile analysis approach was employed to identify how the five forms of management control are configured, i.e. identifying the distinctive patterns of control profiles. The Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars method was then used to examine whether safety professionals' work attitudes were different across the identified control profiles.

Seven distinct control profiles were extracted from the sample of 475 construction safety professionals. The overall test of outcome means showed that mean levels of affective commitment, job satisfaction and intentions to quit were significantly different across the seven profiles. The largest that was also the most desirable subgroup was the high control profile (n = 161, 33.9%). The least desirable subgroups included the low control profile (n = 75, 15.8%) and the low capability and professional control profile (n = 12, 2.5%). Pairwise comparison suggested that capability, professional and process controls were more effective than outcome control and reinforcement.

In theory, this study contributes to the burgeoning literature on how to improve the effectiveness of control measures targeted at safety professionals. The results suggested that effective management controls involve a fine combination of formal, informal, process and output controls. In practice, this study uncovers the ways in which managers leverage the efforts of safety professionals in achieving safety goals. Particularly, it informs managers that the control configurations, instead of isolated controls, should be executed to motivate safety professionals.

]]>
How do different management control configurations influence construction safety professionals' work attitudes10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0745Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-30© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedChuanjing JuYan NingYuzhong ShenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-3010.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0745https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0745/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influence of blockchain adoption barriers and drivers on potential application areas in the construction lifecycle: partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0746/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe construction industry faces public criticism for issues like wastefulness, inefficiency, slim profits, scheduling setbacks, budget overruns, quality concerns, trust deficits, transparency, coordination, communication and fraud. This paper aims to assess the nexus between barriers and drivers for adopting blockchain in construction and its impact on construction lifecycle. A quantitative research approach was used to collect data using a well-structured questionnaire survey. The survey, which used snowball sampling, included 155 Nigerian construction experts that included architects, builders, quantity surveyors and engineers in the built environment. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which allowed for a thorough evaluation of the proposed relationships as well as industry-specific insights. The study's findings validate the conceptual framework established. The results indicate that implementing blockchain across all stages of construction projects has the potential to improve the construction process by 88.2% through its drivers. However, there were no significant relationships found between the barriers to adopting blockchain and the potential application areas in the construction lifecycle. This research was carried out in the South-western which is one of the six geo-political zones/regions in Nigeria, using a cross-sectional survey method. The study did not investigate the interdependence of the identified categories of drivers and barriers, limiting a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics and interactions influencing blockchain adoption in construction. The study is expected to stimulate further exploration and generate new insights on how blockchain technology (BT) can influence various stages of the construction lifecycle. The findings will be immensely beneficial to both professionals and practitioners in the Nigerian construction industry in learning about the potential of BT application in improving the construction lifecycle. This paper developed and assessed a conceptual framework by investigating the interrelationships between the constructs. The findings have important implications for the construction industry, as they offer opportunities to improve the construction process and overall lifecycle. The findings are useful for researchers interested in the potential impact of BT on the construction lifecycle and its wider implications.Influence of blockchain adoption barriers and drivers on potential application areas in the construction lifecycle: partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach
Luqman Oyewobi, Taofeek Tunde Okanlawon, Kabir Ibrahim, Richard Ajayi Jimoh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The construction industry faces public criticism for issues like wastefulness, inefficiency, slim profits, scheduling setbacks, budget overruns, quality concerns, trust deficits, transparency, coordination, communication and fraud. This paper aims to assess the nexus between barriers and drivers for adopting blockchain in construction and its impact on construction lifecycle.

A quantitative research approach was used to collect data using a well-structured questionnaire survey. The survey, which used snowball sampling, included 155 Nigerian construction experts that included architects, builders, quantity surveyors and engineers in the built environment. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), which allowed for a thorough evaluation of the proposed relationships as well as industry-specific insights.

The study's findings validate the conceptual framework established. The results indicate that implementing blockchain across all stages of construction projects has the potential to improve the construction process by 88.2% through its drivers. However, there were no significant relationships found between the barriers to adopting blockchain and the potential application areas in the construction lifecycle.

This research was carried out in the South-western which is one of the six geo-political zones/regions in Nigeria, using a cross-sectional survey method. The study did not investigate the interdependence of the identified categories of drivers and barriers, limiting a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics and interactions influencing blockchain adoption in construction. The study is expected to stimulate further exploration and generate new insights on how blockchain technology (BT) can influence various stages of the construction lifecycle.

The findings will be immensely beneficial to both professionals and practitioners in the Nigerian construction industry in learning about the potential of BT application in improving the construction lifecycle.

This paper developed and assessed a conceptual framework by investigating the interrelationships between the constructs. The findings have important implications for the construction industry, as they offer opportunities to improve the construction process and overall lifecycle. The findings are useful for researchers interested in the potential impact of BT on the construction lifecycle and its wider implications.

]]>
Influence of blockchain adoption barriers and drivers on potential application areas in the construction lifecycle: partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0746Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-10-31© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLuqman OyewobiTaofeek Tunde OkanlawonKabir IbrahimRichard Ajayi JimohEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-10-3110.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0746https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0746/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Establishing the characteristics of mental toughness among construction professionalshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0751/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of many stressors and mental health concerns. This calls for mechanisms to cope with these concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals in Ghana. The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of mental health concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals. the study's findings revealed 13-factor model characteristics of mental toughness with 43 variables for mentally tough performers in the construction environment. These 13-factor models include Pressure Management (PM), Motivation (M), Emotional Intelligence (EI), Interpersonal self-belief (SB), Tough Attitude (TA), Job-related self-belief (SBB), Ethical Values (EV), Commitment (C), Focus (F), Optimism (OP), Expertise and Competence (EC), Imagery Control (IC) and Resilient (R). The outcome of this study has significant practical implications for various stakeholders. For construction professionals the identified factors provide valuable insights into the psychological attributes and behaviours that contribute to mental toughness among construction professionals. Understanding these characteristics can empower professionals to develop strategies for coping with stress, maintaining focus, and fostering resilience in challenging construction environments to achieve optimum performance levels consistently. The originality of this study's findings stems from the fact that it is among the first to provide greater insight into mental toughness characteristics considered by professionals (quantity surveyors, construction managers, engineers, project managers, architects, estate managers) in the construction industry.Establishing the characteristics of mental toughness among construction professionals
Evans Kwesi Mireku, Ernest Kissi, Edward Badu, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Titus Kwofie, Kenneth Eluerkeh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of many stressors and mental health concerns. This calls for mechanisms to cope with these concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals in Ghana.

The construction industry is an industry which has gained notoriety when it comes to both physical and mental health problems. Compared to other industries, the construction sector has a higher prevalence of mental health concerns. One coping mechanism propounded to help cope and adapt in the face of pressures and challenges is “Mental Toughness (MT)”. While mental toughness has been widely studied in various fields, there is a paucity of comprehensive research examining its significance among construction professionals. Thus, the motivation of this study is to establish the mental toughness characteristics among construction professionals.

the study's findings revealed 13-factor model characteristics of mental toughness with 43 variables for mentally tough performers in the construction environment. These 13-factor models include Pressure Management (PM), Motivation (M), Emotional Intelligence (EI), Interpersonal self-belief (SB), Tough Attitude (TA), Job-related self-belief (SBB), Ethical Values (EV), Commitment (C), Focus (F), Optimism (OP), Expertise and Competence (EC), Imagery Control (IC) and Resilient (R).

The outcome of this study has significant practical implications for various stakeholders. For construction professionals the identified factors provide valuable insights into the psychological attributes and behaviours that contribute to mental toughness among construction professionals. Understanding these characteristics can empower professionals to develop strategies for coping with stress, maintaining focus, and fostering resilience in challenging construction environments to achieve optimum performance levels consistently.

The originality of this study's findings stems from the fact that it is among the first to provide greater insight into mental toughness characteristics considered by professionals (quantity surveyors, construction managers, engineers, project managers, architects, estate managers) in the construction industry.

]]>
Establishing the characteristics of mental toughness among construction professionals10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0751Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-22© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedEvans Kwesi MirekuErnest KissiEdward BaduClinton Ohis AigbavboaTitus KwofieKenneth EluerkehEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2210.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0751https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0751/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Integrating the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems for offshore projects: multiagent optimization methodologyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0754/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to develop an integrated model for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems, where some of the prominent features of offshore projects and their environmental-degrading effects have been embraced as well. The durations of activities are uncertain in this model. The developed formulation is tri-objective that seeks to minimize the expected time, total cost and CO2 emission of all projects. A new version of the multiobjective multiagent optimization (MOMAO) algorithm has been proposed to solve the amalgamated model. To empower the MOMAO, various procedures of this algorithm have been modified based on the multiattribute utility theory (MAUT) technique. Along with the MOMAO, this study has employed four other meta-heuristic methodologies to solve the model as well. The outputs of the MOMAO have been put to test against four other optimizers in terms of convergence, diversity, uniformity and computation times. The results of the Mean Ideal Distance (MID) metric have revealed that the MOMAO has strongly prevailed its rival optimizers. In terms of diversity of the acquired solutions, the MOMAO has ranked the first among all employed optimizers since this algorithm has offered the best solutions in 56.66 and 63.33% of the test problems regarding the diversification metric and hyper-volume metrics. Regarding the uniformity of results, which is measured through the spacing metric (SP), the MOMAO has presented the best SP values in more than 96% of the test problems. The MOMAO has needed more computation times in comparison to its rivals. A real case study comprising two concurrent offshore projects has been offered. The proposed formulation and the MOMAO have been implemented for this case study, and their effectiveness has been appraised. Very few studies have focused on presenting an integrated formulation for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems. The model embraces some of the characteristics of the offshore projects which have not been adequately studied in the literature. Limited capacities of the offshore platforms and cargo vessels have been embedded in the proposed model. The offshore platforms have spatial limitations in storing the required materials. The vessels are also capacitated and they also have limited shipment capacities. Some of the required materials need to be transported from the base to the offshore platform via a fleet of cargo vessels. The workforces and equipment can become idle on the offshore platform due to material shortage. Various offshore-related costs have been integrated as a minimization objective function in the model. The cargo vessels release CO2 detrimental emissions to the environment which are sought to be minimized in the developed formulation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the MOMAO has not been sufficiently employed as a solution methodology for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems.Integrating the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems for offshore projects: multiagent optimization methodology
Masoud Parsi, Vahid Baradaran, Amir Hossein Hosseinian
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to develop an integrated model for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems, where some of the prominent features of offshore projects and their environmental-degrading effects have been embraced as well. The durations of activities are uncertain in this model. The developed formulation is tri-objective that seeks to minimize the expected time, total cost and CO2 emission of all projects.

A new version of the multiobjective multiagent optimization (MOMAO) algorithm has been proposed to solve the amalgamated model. To empower the MOMAO, various procedures of this algorithm have been modified based on the multiattribute utility theory (MAUT) technique. Along with the MOMAO, this study has employed four other meta-heuristic methodologies to solve the model as well.

The outputs of the MOMAO have been put to test against four other optimizers in terms of convergence, diversity, uniformity and computation times. The results of the Mean Ideal Distance (MID) metric have revealed that the MOMAO has strongly prevailed its rival optimizers. In terms of diversity of the acquired solutions, the MOMAO has ranked the first among all employed optimizers since this algorithm has offered the best solutions in 56.66 and 63.33% of the test problems regarding the diversification metric and hyper-volume metrics. Regarding the uniformity of results, which is measured through the spacing metric (SP), the MOMAO has presented the best SP values in more than 96% of the test problems. The MOMAO has needed more computation times in comparison to its rivals.

A real case study comprising two concurrent offshore projects has been offered. The proposed formulation and the MOMAO have been implemented for this case study, and their effectiveness has been appraised.

Very few studies have focused on presenting an integrated formulation for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems. The model embraces some of the characteristics of the offshore projects which have not been adequately studied in the literature. Limited capacities of the offshore platforms and cargo vessels have been embedded in the proposed model. The offshore platforms have spatial limitations in storing the required materials. The vessels are also capacitated and they also have limited shipment capacities. Some of the required materials need to be transported from the base to the offshore platform via a fleet of cargo vessels. The workforces and equipment can become idle on the offshore platform due to material shortage. Various offshore-related costs have been integrated as a minimization objective function in the model. The cargo vessels release CO2 detrimental emissions to the environment which are sought to be minimized in the developed formulation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the MOMAO has not been sufficiently employed as a solution methodology for the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems.

]]>
Integrating the stochastic multiproject scheduling and material ordering problems for offshore projects: multiagent optimization methodology10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0754Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-01© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMasoud ParsiVahid BaradaranAmir Hossein HosseinianEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-0110.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0754https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0754/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Leveraging blockchain to anchor information for supervision in PPP projects: a conceptual frameworkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0758/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe information used for supervision by regulatory departments in public-private partnership (PPP) projects is primarily transmitted and processed by the PPP implementation department, which negatively impacts the information quality, leading to information asymmetry and undermining the overall effectiveness of supervision. This study aims to explore how to use blockchain to anchor the information used for supervision in PPP projects to the original information, to strengthen the oversight. This paper adopts the principles of design science research (DSR) to design a conceptual framework that systematically organizes information along the information dissemination chain, ensuring the reliable anchoring of original information. Two-stage interviews involving experts from academia and industry are conducted, serving as formative and summative evaluations to guide the design. The framework establishes a weak-centralized information organizing mode, including the design of governance community and on-chain and off-chain governance mechanisms. Feedback from experts is collected via interviews and the designed framework is thought to improve information used for supervision. Constructive suggestions are also collected and analyzed for further development. This paper provides a novel example exploring the inspirations blockchain can bring to project governance, like exercising caution regarding the disorderly expansion of public sector authority in addressing information disadvantages and how to leverage blockchain to achieve this. Technical details conveyed by the framework deepen understanding of how blockchain benefits and the challenges faced in successful implementation for practitioners and policymakers. The targeted evaluation serves as rigorous validation, guiding experts to provide reliable feedback and richer insights by offering them a more cognitively convenient scenario.Leveraging blockchain to anchor information for supervision in PPP projects: a conceptual framework
Yanhui Du, Jingfeng Yuan, ShouQing Wang, Yan Liu, Ningshuang Zeng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The information used for supervision by regulatory departments in public-private partnership (PPP) projects is primarily transmitted and processed by the PPP implementation department, which negatively impacts the information quality, leading to information asymmetry and undermining the overall effectiveness of supervision. This study aims to explore how to use blockchain to anchor the information used for supervision in PPP projects to the original information, to strengthen the oversight.

This paper adopts the principles of design science research (DSR) to design a conceptual framework that systematically organizes information along the information dissemination chain, ensuring the reliable anchoring of original information. Two-stage interviews involving experts from academia and industry are conducted, serving as formative and summative evaluations to guide the design.

The framework establishes a weak-centralized information organizing mode, including the design of governance community and on-chain and off-chain governance mechanisms. Feedback from experts is collected via interviews and the designed framework is thought to improve information used for supervision. Constructive suggestions are also collected and analyzed for further development.

This paper provides a novel example exploring the inspirations blockchain can bring to project governance, like exercising caution regarding the disorderly expansion of public sector authority in addressing information disadvantages and how to leverage blockchain to achieve this. Technical details conveyed by the framework deepen understanding of how blockchain benefits and the challenges faced in successful implementation for practitioners and policymakers. The targeted evaluation serves as rigorous validation, guiding experts to provide reliable feedback and richer insights by offering them a more cognitively convenient scenario.

]]>
Leveraging blockchain to anchor information for supervision in PPP projects: a conceptual framework10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0758Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-22© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYanhui DuJingfeng YuanShouQing WangYan LiuNingshuang ZengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2210.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0758https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0758/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Enhancing risk assessment: an improved Bayesian network approach for analyzing interactions among riskshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0774/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn traditional Bayesian belief networks (BBNs), a large amount of data are required to complete network parameters, which makes it impractical. In addition, no systematic method has been used to create the structure of the BBN. The aims of this study are to: (1) decrease the number of questions and time and effort required for completing the parameters of the BBN and (2) present a simple and apprehensible method for creating the BBN structure based on the expert knowledge. In this study, by combining the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and BBN, a model is introduced that can form the project risk network and analyze the impact of risk factors on project cost quantitatively based on the expert knowledge. The ranked node method (RNM) is then used to complete the parametric part of the BBN using the same data obtained from the experts to analyze DEMATEL. Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively. Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively. The obtained results are based on a single case study project and may not be readily generalizable. The presented framework makes the BBN more practical for quantitatively assessing the impact of risk on project costs. This helps to manage financial issues, which is one of the main reasons for project bankruptcy.Enhancing risk assessment: an improved Bayesian network approach for analyzing interactions among risks
Mohammad Hosein Madihi, Ali Akbar Shirzadi Javid, Farnad Nasirzadeh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In traditional Bayesian belief networks (BBNs), a large amount of data are required to complete network parameters, which makes it impractical. In addition, no systematic method has been used to create the structure of the BBN. The aims of this study are to: (1) decrease the number of questions and time and effort required for completing the parameters of the BBN and (2) present a simple and apprehensible method for creating the BBN structure based on the expert knowledge.

In this study, by combining the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and BBN, a model is introduced that can form the project risk network and analyze the impact of risk factors on project cost quantitatively based on the expert knowledge. The ranked node method (RNM) is then used to complete the parametric part of the BBN using the same data obtained from the experts to analyze DEMATEL.

Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively.

Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively. The obtained results are based on a single case study project and may not be readily generalizable.

The presented framework makes the BBN more practical for quantitatively assessing the impact of risk on project costs. This helps to manage financial issues, which is one of the main reasons for project bankruptcy.

]]>
Enhancing risk assessment: an improved Bayesian network approach for analyzing interactions among risks10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0774Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohammad Hosein MadihiAli Akbar Shirzadi JavidFarnad NasirzadehEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1110.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0774https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-07-2023-0774/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Resource-constrained repetitive project scheduling with soft logichttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0703/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn repetitive projects, repetition offers more possibilities for activity scheduling at the sub-activity level. However, existing resource-constrained repetitive scheduling problem (RCRSP) models assume that there is only one sequence in performing the sub-activities of each activity, resulting in an inefficient resource allocation. This paper proposes a novel repetitive scheduling model for solving RCRSP with soft logic. In this paper, a constraint programming model is developed to solve the RCRSP using soft logic, aiming at the possible relationship between parallel execution, orderly execution or partial parallel and partial orderly execution of different sub activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. The proposed model integrated crew assignment strategies and allowed continuous or fragmented execution. When solving RCRSP, it is necessary to take soft logic into account. If managers only consider the fixed logic between sub-activities, they are likely to develop a delayed schedule. The practicality and effectiveness of the model were verified by a housing project based on eight different scenarios. The results showed that the constraint programming model outperformed its equivalent mathematical model in terms of solving speed and solution quality. Available studies assume a fixed logic between sub-activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. However, there is no fixed construction sequence between sub-activities for some projects, e.g. hotel renovation projects. Therefore, this paper considers the soft logic relationship between sub-activities and investigates how to make the objective optimal without violating the resource availability constraint.Resource-constrained repetitive project scheduling with soft logic
Xin Zou, Zhuang Rong
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In repetitive projects, repetition offers more possibilities for activity scheduling at the sub-activity level. However, existing resource-constrained repetitive scheduling problem (RCRSP) models assume that there is only one sequence in performing the sub-activities of each activity, resulting in an inefficient resource allocation. This paper proposes a novel repetitive scheduling model for solving RCRSP with soft logic.

In this paper, a constraint programming model is developed to solve the RCRSP using soft logic, aiming at the possible relationship between parallel execution, orderly execution or partial parallel and partial orderly execution of different sub activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. The proposed model integrated crew assignment strategies and allowed continuous or fragmented execution.

When solving RCRSP, it is necessary to take soft logic into account. If managers only consider the fixed logic between sub-activities, they are likely to develop a delayed schedule. The practicality and effectiveness of the model were verified by a housing project based on eight different scenarios. The results showed that the constraint programming model outperformed its equivalent mathematical model in terms of solving speed and solution quality.

Available studies assume a fixed logic between sub-activities of the same activity in repetitive projects. However, there is no fixed construction sequence between sub-activities for some projects, e.g. hotel renovation projects. Therefore, this paper considers the soft logic relationship between sub-activities and investigates how to make the objective optimal without violating the resource availability constraint.

]]>
Resource-constrained repetitive project scheduling with soft logic10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0703Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-02© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXin ZouZhuang RongEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-0210.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0703https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0703/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Intelligent construction: unlocking opportunities for the digital transformation of China's construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0706/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe existing literature has been mainly focused on local problems but without an overall framework for studying the top-level planning of intelligent construction from a systematic perspective. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap. This research adopts a deductive research approach. This research proposes a reference architecture and related business scenario framework for intelligent construction based on the existing theory and industrial practice. The main contribution of this research is to provide a useful reference to the Chinese government and industry for formulating digital transformation strategies, as well as suggests meaningful future research directions in the construction industry.Intelligent construction: unlocking opportunities for the digital transformation of China's construction industry
Zhijia You
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The existing literature has been mainly focused on local problems but without an overall framework for studying the top-level planning of intelligent construction from a systematic perspective. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap.

This research adopts a deductive research approach.

This research proposes a reference architecture and related business scenario framework for intelligent construction based on the existing theory and industrial practice.

The main contribution of this research is to provide a useful reference to the Chinese government and industry for formulating digital transformation strategies, as well as suggests meaningful future research directions in the construction industry.

]]>
Intelligent construction: unlocking opportunities for the digital transformation of China's construction industry10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0706Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-25© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhijia YouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2510.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0706https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0706/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigating the relationship between corporate social responsibility implementation and contractor competitivenesshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0711/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to (1) develop a structural equation model in understanding the relationships between corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance and contractor competitiveness and (2) test the moderating effect of firm sizes on this relationship. A literature review showed an urgent need to investigate the relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness holistically. CSR and contractor competitiveness variables were identified through the literature review and discussions with experienced professionals. Using a survey questionnaire, a total of 252 completed questionnaires were received. A structural equation modeling technique was then applied to analyze the data collected. Multigroup analysis was employed to test the moderating effect of firm sizes on the relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness. The results indicated a strong relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness. This relationship is not moderated by firm size. This research is one of the first studies to holistically explore the linkages between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness. The findings can be served as a solid foundation to promote CSR performance in construction firms. Contractors of different sizes are suggested to implement CSR activities to foster competitiveness.Investigating the relationship between corporate social responsibility implementation and contractor competitiveness
Minh Van Nguyen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to (1) develop a structural equation model in understanding the relationships between corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance and contractor competitiveness and (2) test the moderating effect of firm sizes on this relationship.

A literature review showed an urgent need to investigate the relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness holistically. CSR and contractor competitiveness variables were identified through the literature review and discussions with experienced professionals. Using a survey questionnaire, a total of 252 completed questionnaires were received. A structural equation modeling technique was then applied to analyze the data collected. Multigroup analysis was employed to test the moderating effect of firm sizes on the relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness.

The results indicated a strong relationship between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness. This relationship is not moderated by firm size.

This research is one of the first studies to holistically explore the linkages between CSR implementation and contractor competitiveness. The findings can be served as a solid foundation to promote CSR performance in construction firms. Contractors of different sizes are suggested to implement CSR activities to foster competitiveness.

]]>
Investigating the relationship between corporate social responsibility implementation and contractor competitiveness10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0711Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMinh Van NguyenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2910.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0711https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0711/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The co-movement effect of managers' psychological factors on the BIM adoption decision in SMEs: a study based on fsQCAhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0721/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGiven the complexity of building information modeling (BIM) adoption decisions in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, understanding BIM adoption decision-making through the net effect of a single factor on BIM adoption decisions alone is limited. Therefore, this paper analyzed the co-movement effect of managers' psychological factors on the BIM adoption decisions from the perspective of managers' perceptions. The purpose is to let managers have a deep understanding of their BIM adoption decisions, and put forward targeted suggestions for the AEC industry to promote the adoption of BIM by SMEs. Data from 192 managers in SMEs collected by the questionnaire were used in a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Due to the limitations of fsQCA in making the best use of the data used, as a complement to fsQCA, necessary conditions analysis (NCA) was used to analyze the extent to which necessary conditions influenced the outcome. (1) NCA analysis shows that high perceived resource availability (PRA) and high performance expectancy (PE) are necessary conditions for high BIM adoption intention (AI). (2) fsQCA analysis shows that high PE is the single core condition for high AI. fsQCA analysis identifies three configurations of managers' psychological factors, reflecting three types of managers' decision preferences, namely benefit preference, loss aversion and risk avoidance, respectively. Different decision preferences may lead to different BIM adoption strategies, such as full in-house use, partial in-house/outsourcing and full outsourcing of BIM processes. (3) High perceived risk (PR) and low perceived business value of BIM (PBV) are the core conditions for low AI. This paper expands on the application of fsQCA to context of BIM adoption decisions. Based on the results of fsQCA analysis, this paper also establishes the relationship between managers' decision-making psychology and BIM adoption strategy choice and analyzes the impact of different decision biases on BIM adoption strategy choice. It concludes with suggestions for encouraging managers to adopt BIM and for avoiding decision-making bias.The co-movement effect of managers' psychological factors on the BIM adoption decision in SMEs: a study based on fsQCA
Rui Li, Zhanwen Niu, Chaochao Liu, Bei Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Given the complexity of building information modeling (BIM) adoption decisions in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, understanding BIM adoption decision-making through the net effect of a single factor on BIM adoption decisions alone is limited. Therefore, this paper analyzed the co-movement effect of managers' psychological factors on the BIM adoption decisions from the perspective of managers' perceptions. The purpose is to let managers have a deep understanding of their BIM adoption decisions, and put forward targeted suggestions for the AEC industry to promote the adoption of BIM by SMEs.

Data from 192 managers in SMEs collected by the questionnaire were used in a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Due to the limitations of fsQCA in making the best use of the data used, as a complement to fsQCA, necessary conditions analysis (NCA) was used to analyze the extent to which necessary conditions influenced the outcome.

(1) NCA analysis shows that high perceived resource availability (PRA) and high performance expectancy (PE) are necessary conditions for high BIM adoption intention (AI). (2) fsQCA analysis shows that high PE is the single core condition for high AI. fsQCA analysis identifies three configurations of managers' psychological factors, reflecting three types of managers' decision preferences, namely benefit preference, loss aversion and risk avoidance, respectively. Different decision preferences may lead to different BIM adoption strategies, such as full in-house use, partial in-house/outsourcing and full outsourcing of BIM processes. (3) High perceived risk (PR) and low perceived business value of BIM (PBV) are the core conditions for low AI.

This paper expands on the application of fsQCA to context of BIM adoption decisions. Based on the results of fsQCA analysis, this paper also establishes the relationship between managers' decision-making psychology and BIM adoption strategy choice and analyzes the impact of different decision biases on BIM adoption strategy choice. It concludes with suggestions for encouraging managers to adopt BIM and for avoiding decision-making bias.

]]>
The co-movement effect of managers' psychological factors on the BIM adoption decision in SMEs: a study based on fsQCA10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0721Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-24© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedRui LiZhanwen NiuChaochao LiuBei WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2410.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0721https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0721/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Relationship between abusive supervision and workers' well-being in construction projects: effects of closeness and trust in managershttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0726/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe high-pressure nature of the construction industry, along with the COVID-19 pandemic, triggered abusive supervision (i.e. workplace bullying and incivility behaviour) that has diminished workers' well-being. However, despite the growing prevalence in practice and increasing concern in academia, abusive supervision remains largely unexplored by construction management scholars. This study aims to fill the gap in the current literature by analysing the effects of abusive supervision on construction workers' well-being, the mediating role of guanxi closeness and the moderating role of trust in the manager. A questionnaire survey was completed by 258 Chinese construction workers. The data underwent mediation and moderation analyses using PROCESS macro 3.5 for SPSS. The results revealed that managers' abusive supervision reduced construction workers' well-being at work and in life. Guanxi closeness between manager and workers mediated the relationship between managers' abusive supervision and construction workers' well-being. Additionally, trust in managers moderated the mediating effect of guanxi closeness. This study further revealed that the emotional connection between construction managers and workers, such as expressive guanxi closeness and affective-based trust, is important in handling the impact of abusive supervision on the workers. The findings of this study provide support for recent calls to address negative manager behaviours such as abusive supervision in construction management. They aid the development of a more comprehensive internal mechanism that considers the influence of guanxi closeness on the outcomes of abusive supervision by managers at construction sites. Additionally, interventions that develop trust in managers may be particularly effective in alleviating the tension of abusive supervision. More attention should be paid to managers' emotional connections in daily construction project management. Rather than concentrate on positive leadership, this study shifts the focus to negative leadership in construction project management by identifying abusive supervision as a negative primary antecedent of workers' well-being. While prior research has highlighted how negative manager behaviours affect workers' well-being from the conservation of resources theory (COR) perspective, this study is the first, to the authors’ knowledge, to adopt a social exchange theory perspective by introducing guanxi closeness as a mediator. It contributes to a greater understanding of how trust in the manager alleviates the negative effect of the person's abusive supervision on construction workers.Relationship between abusive supervision and workers' well-being in construction projects: effects of closeness and trust in managers
Lei Ju, Yun Peng Ji, Chunlin Wu, Xin Ning, Yang He
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The high-pressure nature of the construction industry, along with the COVID-19 pandemic, triggered abusive supervision (i.e. workplace bullying and incivility behaviour) that has diminished workers' well-being. However, despite the growing prevalence in practice and increasing concern in academia, abusive supervision remains largely unexplored by construction management scholars. This study aims to fill the gap in the current literature by analysing the effects of abusive supervision on construction workers' well-being, the mediating role of guanxi closeness and the moderating role of trust in the manager.

A questionnaire survey was completed by 258 Chinese construction workers. The data underwent mediation and moderation analyses using PROCESS macro 3.5 for SPSS.

The results revealed that managers' abusive supervision reduced construction workers' well-being at work and in life. Guanxi closeness between manager and workers mediated the relationship between managers' abusive supervision and construction workers' well-being. Additionally, trust in managers moderated the mediating effect of guanxi closeness. This study further revealed that the emotional connection between construction managers and workers, such as expressive guanxi closeness and affective-based trust, is important in handling the impact of abusive supervision on the workers.

The findings of this study provide support for recent calls to address negative manager behaviours such as abusive supervision in construction management. They aid the development of a more comprehensive internal mechanism that considers the influence of guanxi closeness on the outcomes of abusive supervision by managers at construction sites. Additionally, interventions that develop trust in managers may be particularly effective in alleviating the tension of abusive supervision. More attention should be paid to managers' emotional connections in daily construction project management.

Rather than concentrate on positive leadership, this study shifts the focus to negative leadership in construction project management by identifying abusive supervision as a negative primary antecedent of workers' well-being. While prior research has highlighted how negative manager behaviours affect workers' well-being from the conservation of resources theory (COR) perspective, this study is the first, to the authors’ knowledge, to adopt a social exchange theory perspective by introducing guanxi closeness as a mediator. It contributes to a greater understanding of how trust in the manager alleviates the negative effect of the person's abusive supervision on construction workers.

]]>
Relationship between abusive supervision and workers' well-being in construction projects: effects of closeness and trust in managers10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0726Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLei JuYun Peng JiChunlin WuXin NingYang HeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-3010.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0726https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0726/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Do regional characteristics influence PPP contract governance skills requirements?https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0729/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to seek, on the basis of Hofstede's culture consequences, to explore the notion that regional characteristics may influence the prioritisation of certain types of public-private partnerships (PPP) contract governance skills over others. It further sets out to determine which skills are considered the most critical between the groups of respondents surveyed. To bring this important and neglected perspective into the mainstream of PPP discussions, the study, being of an exploratory nature, relied on a survey of 340 respondents from around the globe. The respondents are a rich mix of public policy experts, economists, construction professionals, project finance experts, lawyers and academic researchers in PPP.s. Analysis revealed that, regional characteristics was an important factor influencing skills prioritisation. Furthermore, exploratory factor analysis with Monte Carlo principal component analysis (PCA) confirmation revealed that project management, contract design, negotiations, performance management and stakeholder management skills were very critical for successful contract management of PPP projects. The findings indicate that the design and implementation of regulatory governance for infrastructure PPPs should be context-specific rather than the current one-size-fits all model. Training should be tailored to reflect regional specific characteristics. Studies are increasingly pointing to the absence of critical PPP skills among institutions responsible for managing PPP contracts. This lack of capacity has resulted in poor oversight of private companies providing public services resulting in poor services, and financial recklessness, which threaten the sustainability of service provision.Do regional characteristics influence PPP contract governance skills requirements?
Abdullahi Ahmed Umar, Noor Amila Wan Abdullah Zawawi, Abdul Rashid Abdul Aziz
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to seek, on the basis of Hofstede's culture consequences, to explore the notion that regional characteristics may influence the prioritisation of certain types of public-private partnerships (PPP) contract governance skills over others. It further sets out to determine which skills are considered the most critical between the groups of respondents surveyed.

To bring this important and neglected perspective into the mainstream of PPP discussions, the study, being of an exploratory nature, relied on a survey of 340 respondents from around the globe. The respondents are a rich mix of public policy experts, economists, construction professionals, project finance experts, lawyers and academic researchers in PPP.s.

Analysis revealed that, regional characteristics was an important factor influencing skills prioritisation. Furthermore, exploratory factor analysis with Monte Carlo principal component analysis (PCA) confirmation revealed that project management, contract design, negotiations, performance management and stakeholder management skills were very critical for successful contract management of PPP projects.

The findings indicate that the design and implementation of regulatory governance for infrastructure PPPs should be context-specific rather than the current one-size-fits all model. Training should be tailored to reflect regional specific characteristics.

Studies are increasingly pointing to the absence of critical PPP skills among institutions responsible for managing PPP contracts. This lack of capacity has resulted in poor oversight of private companies providing public services resulting in poor services, and financial recklessness, which threaten the sustainability of service provision.

]]>
Do regional characteristics influence PPP contract governance skills requirements?10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0729Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAbdullahi Ahmed UmarNoor Amila Wan Abdullah ZawawiAbdul Rashid Abdul AzizEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1410.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0729https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0729/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing a multidimensional performance measurement framework for international construction joint ventures (ICJVs): the perspective of Ghana-hosted ICJVs' practitionershttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0739/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInternational construction joint ventures (ICJVs) will fully realize their potential for success and effectively monitor performance when an adequate and suitable performance benchmark is established. However, existing studies fall short of adequately providing a mutually acceptable benchmark for assessing the performance of ICJVs. This study aims to develop an adequate and suitable performance measurement framework for ICJVs. A twofold structured questionnaire survey, supplemented by semi-structured interviews, was used to collect data from the practitioners of ICJVs hosted in the developing country of Ghana. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and a hybrid-fuzzy logic approach. A list of 30 performance indicators (PIs), defined by project performance, perceived satisfaction, company/partner performance, socio-environmental performance and performance of ICJV management, was validated and proved to be significant. Only 22 out of the 30 PIs, focusing on project efficiency, societal improvement and organizational goals are realized by the ICJV practitioners. Further, suitable determinants and viable quantitative ranges for measuring each PI are established to prevent different interpretations of the meanings of PIs and objectively express the level of success in quantitative terms. The results call for further investigation of the convergence between the practice of and research into some PIs (e.g. socio-environmental performance) and a range of different performance levels (PLs) in a more scientific manner. This study not only advances the knowledge base and practice of performance measurement in ICJVs but could also assist stakeholders and decision-makers to assess, compare and monitor the performance of different ICJV projects on common grounds objectively. This study not only comprehensively assessed PIs – what to measure – but also systematically determined suitable determinants – how to measure – for each PI.Developing a multidimensional performance measurement framework for international construction joint ventures (ICJVs): the perspective of Ghana-hosted ICJVs' practitioners
Mershack Opoku Tetteh, Albert P.C. Chan, Amos Darko, Beliz Özorhon, Emmanuel Adinyira
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

International construction joint ventures (ICJVs) will fully realize their potential for success and effectively monitor performance when an adequate and suitable performance benchmark is established. However, existing studies fall short of adequately providing a mutually acceptable benchmark for assessing the performance of ICJVs. This study aims to develop an adequate and suitable performance measurement framework for ICJVs.

A twofold structured questionnaire survey, supplemented by semi-structured interviews, was used to collect data from the practitioners of ICJVs hosted in the developing country of Ghana. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and a hybrid-fuzzy logic approach.

A list of 30 performance indicators (PIs), defined by project performance, perceived satisfaction, company/partner performance, socio-environmental performance and performance of ICJV management, was validated and proved to be significant. Only 22 out of the 30 PIs, focusing on project efficiency, societal improvement and organizational goals are realized by the ICJV practitioners. Further, suitable determinants and viable quantitative ranges for measuring each PI are established to prevent different interpretations of the meanings of PIs and objectively express the level of success in quantitative terms. The results call for further investigation of the convergence between the practice of and research into some PIs (e.g. socio-environmental performance) and a range of different performance levels (PLs) in a more scientific manner.

This study not only advances the knowledge base and practice of performance measurement in ICJVs but could also assist stakeholders and decision-makers to assess, compare and monitor the performance of different ICJV projects on common grounds objectively.

This study not only comprehensively assessed PIs – what to measure – but also systematically determined suitable determinants – how to measure – for each PI.

]]>
Developing a multidimensional performance measurement framework for international construction joint ventures (ICJVs): the perspective of Ghana-hosted ICJVs' practitioners10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0739Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMershack Opoku TettehAlbert P.C. ChanAmos DarkoBeliz ÖzorhonEmmanuel AdinyiraEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1910.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0739https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0739/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Automatic generative design and optimization of hospital building layouts in consideration of public health emergencyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0757/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aimed to propose a performance-oriented approach of automatically generative design and optimization of hospital building layouts in consideration of public health emergency, which intended to conduct reasonable layout design of hospital building to meet different performance requirements for both high efficiency during normal periods and low risk in the pandemic. The research design follows a sequential mixed methodology. First, key points and parameters of hospital building layout design (HBLD) are analyzed. Then, to meet the requirements of high efficiency and low risk, adjacent preference score and infection risk coefficient are constructed as constraints. On this basis, automatic generative design is conducted to generate building layout schemes. Finally, multi-objective deviation analysis is carried out to obtain the optimal scheme of hospital building layouts. Automatic generative design of building layouts that integrates adjacent preferences and infection risks enables hospitals to achieve rapid transitions between normal (high efficiency) and pandemic (low risk) periods, which can effectively respond to public health emergencies. The proposed approach has been verified in an actual project, which can help systematically explore the solution for better decision-making. The form of building layouts is limited to rectangles, and future work can explore conducting irregular layouts into optimization for the framework of generative design. The contribution of this paper is the developed approach that can quickly and effectively generate more hospital layout alternatives satisfying high operational efficiency and low infection risk by formulating space design rules, which is of great significance in response to public health emergency.Automatic generative design and optimization of hospital building layouts in consideration of public health emergency
Ying Zhou, Yu Wang, Chenshuang Li, Lieyun Ding, Cong Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aimed to propose a performance-oriented approach of automatically generative design and optimization of hospital building layouts in consideration of public health emergency, which intended to conduct reasonable layout design of hospital building to meet different performance requirements for both high efficiency during normal periods and low risk in the pandemic.

The research design follows a sequential mixed methodology. First, key points and parameters of hospital building layout design (HBLD) are analyzed. Then, to meet the requirements of high efficiency and low risk, adjacent preference score and infection risk coefficient are constructed as constraints. On this basis, automatic generative design is conducted to generate building layout schemes. Finally, multi-objective deviation analysis is carried out to obtain the optimal scheme of hospital building layouts.

Automatic generative design of building layouts that integrates adjacent preferences and infection risks enables hospitals to achieve rapid transitions between normal (high efficiency) and pandemic (low risk) periods, which can effectively respond to public health emergencies. The proposed approach has been verified in an actual project, which can help systematically explore the solution for better decision-making.

The form of building layouts is limited to rectangles, and future work can explore conducting irregular layouts into optimization for the framework of generative design.

The contribution of this paper is the developed approach that can quickly and effectively generate more hospital layout alternatives satisfying high operational efficiency and low infection risk by formulating space design rules, which is of great significance in response to public health emergency.

]]>
Automatic generative design and optimization of hospital building layouts in consideration of public health emergency10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0757Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-09© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYing ZhouYu WangChenshuang LiLieyun DingCong WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-0910.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0757https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0757/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Leakages in affordable housing delivery: threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0758/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe increasing growth of urbanisation, especially in developing countries, coupled with affordable housing leakages, may thwart achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 (sustainable cities and communities). Studies regarding affordable housing leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 in one study are scarce in Malaysia. The study investigated Malaysia's low-cost housing (LCH) leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 and proffered measures to achieving Goal 11 and its targets. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues. The researchers covered four of Malaysia's major cities via a qualitative approach. The study used 40 participants via semi-structured virtual interviews, and saturation was achieved. The study adopted a thematic approach for the collected data and honed them with secondary sources. Findings group Malaysia's LCH leakages into government/agencies/departments in housing, housing developers/building contractors and client/building owners' root causes in Malaysia's context. It shows a threat from Malaysia's LCH leakages to achieving Goal 11 and proffered measures to enhance achieving Goal 11. Achieving Goal 11 will strengthen and improve Malaysia's many SDGs accomplishments because of their link. Apart from proffering measures to mitigate long-standing issues (leakages) in Malaysia's LCH delivery from achieving Goal 11, findings will stipulate the accomplishment of other SDGs related to housing delivery.Leakages in affordable housing delivery: threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11
Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan, Bernard Adjekophori, Angeline Ngozika Chibuike Nwaole
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The increasing growth of urbanisation, especially in developing countries, coupled with affordable housing leakages, may thwart achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 (sustainable cities and communities). Studies regarding affordable housing leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 in one study are scarce in Malaysia. The study investigated Malaysia's low-cost housing (LCH) leakages and their aftermath to Goal 11 and proffered measures to achieving Goal 11 and its targets. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.

The researchers covered four of Malaysia's major cities via a qualitative approach. The study used 40 participants via semi-structured virtual interviews, and saturation was achieved. The study adopted a thematic approach for the collected data and honed them with secondary sources.

Findings group Malaysia's LCH leakages into government/agencies/departments in housing, housing developers/building contractors and client/building owners' root causes in Malaysia's context. It shows a threat from Malaysia's LCH leakages to achieving Goal 11 and proffered measures to enhance achieving Goal 11. Achieving Goal 11 will strengthen and improve Malaysia's many SDGs accomplishments because of their link.

Apart from proffering measures to mitigate long-standing issues (leakages) in Malaysia's LCH delivery from achieving Goal 11, findings will stipulate the accomplishment of other SDGs related to housing delivery.

]]>
Leakages in affordable housing delivery: threat to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 1110.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0758Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-11© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedAndrew EbekozienClinton Ohis AigbavboaMohamad Shaharudin SamsurijanBernard AdjekophoriAngeline Ngozika Chibuike NwaoleEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1110.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0758https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0758/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Automation in architecture, engineering and construction: a scientometric analysis and implications for managementhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0770/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMany economic, political and socio-cultural events in the 2020s have been strong headwinds for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). Nevertheless, technological advancements (e.g. artificial intelligence (AI), big data and robotics) provide promising avenues for the development of AEC. This study aims to map the state of the literature on automation in AEC and thereby be of value not only to those researching automation and its composition of a variety of distinct technological and system classes within AEC, but also to practitioners and policymakers in shaping the future of AEC. This review adopts scientometric methods, which have been effective in the research of large intra and interdisciplinary domains in the past decades. The full dataset consists of 1,871 articles on automation in AEC. This overarching scientometric review offers three interdisciplinary streams of research: technological frontiers, project monitoring and applied research in AEC. To support the scientometric analysis, the authors offer a critical integrative review of the literature to proffer a multilevel, multistage framework of automation in AEC, which demonstrates an abundance of technological paradigm discussions and the inherent need for a holistic managerial approach to automation in AEC. The authors underline employee well-being, business sustainability and social growth outcomes of automation and provide several managerial implications, such as the strategic management approach, ethical management view and human resource management perspective. In doing so, the authors seek to respond to the Sustainable Development Goals proposed by the United Nations as this becomes more prevalent for the industry and all levels of society in general.Automation in architecture, engineering and construction: a scientometric analysis and implications for management
Anton Klarin, Qijie Xiao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Many economic, political and socio-cultural events in the 2020s have been strong headwinds for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). Nevertheless, technological advancements (e.g. artificial intelligence (AI), big data and robotics) provide promising avenues for the development of AEC. This study aims to map the state of the literature on automation in AEC and thereby be of value not only to those researching automation and its composition of a variety of distinct technological and system classes within AEC, but also to practitioners and policymakers in shaping the future of AEC.

This review adopts scientometric methods, which have been effective in the research of large intra and interdisciplinary domains in the past decades. The full dataset consists of 1,871 articles on automation in AEC.

This overarching scientometric review offers three interdisciplinary streams of research: technological frontiers, project monitoring and applied research in AEC. To support the scientometric analysis, the authors offer a critical integrative review of the literature to proffer a multilevel, multistage framework of automation in AEC, which demonstrates an abundance of technological paradigm discussions and the inherent need for a holistic managerial approach to automation in AEC.

The authors underline employee well-being, business sustainability and social growth outcomes of automation and provide several managerial implications, such as the strategic management approach, ethical management view and human resource management perspective. In doing so, the authors seek to respond to the Sustainable Development Goals proposed by the United Nations as this becomes more prevalent for the industry and all levels of society in general.

]]>
Automation in architecture, engineering and construction: a scientometric analysis and implications for management10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0770Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAnton KlarinQijie XiaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2110.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0770https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0770/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effects of project uncertainty on guanxi governance and contractual governancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0773/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study examines how project uncertainties (environmental uncertainty and participant uncertainty) affect guanxi and contractual governance and assesses the mediating role of guanxi governance between project uncertainty and contractual governance. Data were collected in two stages from Chinese contractors. First, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine construction engineering project practitioners in different contracts as a pilot for questionnaire designing. Second, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted with professionals and practitioners of construction enterprises to collect primary data. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test seven hypotheses based on data collected from 198 respondents. Project environmental uncertainty promotes the use of guanxi governance, while project participant uncertainty hinders it; the relationship between both types of uncertainty and contractual governance is the same as with guanxi governance. Furthermore, guanxi governance promotes contractual governance and partially mediates project environmental uncertainty and contractual governance and a complete mediating role between project participant uncertainty and contractual governance. As the interviewed samples are mainly from China, the study should be replicated using large representative samples from East Asian countries, such as Japan and South Korea, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the influence of guanxi governance. Further, while the internal consistency reliability and convergent validity of the questionnaire data in this study align with the standards, a larger sample size would improve the reliability and validity of the research results and better represent the overall work situation of contractors, owners and public policymakers. The results provide insights into project governance research and have implications for construction practitioners in deploying governance-related resources.The effects of project uncertainty on guanxi governance and contractual governance
Yi-Hsin Lin, Deshuang Niu, Yanzhe Guo, Ningshuang Zeng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study examines how project uncertainties (environmental uncertainty and participant uncertainty) affect guanxi and contractual governance and assesses the mediating role of guanxi governance between project uncertainty and contractual governance.

Data were collected in two stages from Chinese contractors. First, in-depth interviews were conducted with nine construction engineering project practitioners in different contracts as a pilot for questionnaire designing. Second, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted with professionals and practitioners of construction enterprises to collect primary data. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test seven hypotheses based on data collected from 198 respondents.

Project environmental uncertainty promotes the use of guanxi governance, while project participant uncertainty hinders it; the relationship between both types of uncertainty and contractual governance is the same as with guanxi governance. Furthermore, guanxi governance promotes contractual governance and partially mediates project environmental uncertainty and contractual governance and a complete mediating role between project participant uncertainty and contractual governance.

As the interviewed samples are mainly from China, the study should be replicated using large representative samples from East Asian countries, such as Japan and South Korea, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the influence of guanxi governance. Further, while the internal consistency reliability and convergent validity of the questionnaire data in this study align with the standards, a larger sample size would improve the reliability and validity of the research results and better represent the overall work situation of contractors, owners and public policymakers.

The results provide insights into project governance research and have implications for construction practitioners in deploying governance-related resources.

]]>
The effects of project uncertainty on guanxi governance and contractual governance10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0773Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYi-Hsin LinDeshuang NiuYanzhe GuoNingshuang ZengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1310.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0773https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0773/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Managing future urbanization growth patterns using genetic algorithm modelinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0776/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the enormous need to succeed in the urban model, scientists and policymakers should work consistently to create blueprints to regulate urbanization. The absence of coordination between the crucial requirements and the regional strategies of the local authorities leads to a lack of conformance in urban development. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue. This study intends to manage future urban growth patterns using integrated methods and then employ the results in the genetic algorithm (GA) model to considerably improve growth behavior. Multi-temporal land-use datasets have been derived from remotely sensed images for the years 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020. Urban growth patterns and processes were then analyzed with land-use-and-land-cover dynamics. Results were examined for simulation and utilization of the GA. Model parameters were derived and evaluated, and a preliminary assessment of the effective coefficient in the formation of urbanization is analyzed, showing the city's urbanization pattern has followed along with the transportation infrastructure and outward growth, and the scattering rates are high, with an increase of 5.64% in building area associated with a decrease in agricultural lands and rangelands. The research achieved a considerable improvement over the growth behavior. The conducted research design was the first of its type in that field to be executed to any specific growth pattern parameters in terms of regulating and policymaking. The method has integrated various artificial intelligence models to monitor, measure and optimize the projected growth by applying this design. Other research on the area was limited to projecting the future of Amman as it is an urbanized distressed city.Managing future urbanization growth patterns using genetic algorithm modeling
Sajeda Al-Hadidi, Ghaleb Sweis, Waleed Abu-Khader, Ghaida Abu-Rumman, Rateb Sweis
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the enormous need to succeed in the urban model, scientists and policymakers should work consistently to create blueprints to regulate urbanization. The absence of coordination between the crucial requirements and the regional strategies of the local authorities leads to a lack of conformance in urban development. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue.

This study intends to manage future urban growth patterns using integrated methods and then employ the results in the genetic algorithm (GA) model to considerably improve growth behavior. Multi-temporal land-use datasets have been derived from remotely sensed images for the years 1990, 2000, 2010 and 2020. Urban growth patterns and processes were then analyzed with land-use-and-land-cover dynamics. Results were examined for simulation and utilization of the GA.

Model parameters were derived and evaluated, and a preliminary assessment of the effective coefficient in the formation of urbanization is analyzed, showing the city's urbanization pattern has followed along with the transportation infrastructure and outward growth, and the scattering rates are high, with an increase of 5.64% in building area associated with a decrease in agricultural lands and rangelands.

The research achieved a considerable improvement over the growth behavior. The conducted research design was the first of its type in that field to be executed to any specific growth pattern parameters in terms of regulating and policymaking. The method has integrated various artificial intelligence models to monitor, measure and optimize the projected growth by applying this design. Other research on the area was limited to projecting the future of Amman as it is an urbanized distressed city.

]]>
Managing future urbanization growth patterns using genetic algorithm modeling10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0776Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-09© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSajeda Al-HadidiGhaleb SweisWaleed Abu-KhaderGhaida Abu-RummanRateb SweisEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-0910.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0776https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0776/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Identifying improvements priorities in daycare centre space performance from teachers' perspectives: application of importance–performance analysis and structural equation modellinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0777/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThough daycare centres are built to facilitate children's social and physical growth, divergent stakeholder perceptions yield conflicts while managing risks for each space due to the minimal guidelines in the Republic of Korea. Due to the unclearly defined knowledge and experience gap between representative stakeholders, teachers have difficulties in operating it with high satisfaction. This study therefore was conducted to systematically identify which parts of performance should be increased to preferentially increase end-user satisfaction in limited resources. This research conducted quantitative analysis gradually. Importance–performance analysis (IPA) grasped the perceptions of construction practitioners and end-users after identifying space composition and representative risks of daycare centres. Based on the factors influencing perception differences, principal component analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) were conducted to determine which space improves the performance preferentially to increase overall end-user satisfaction. As the utilisation of indoor spaces increases after COVID-19, improvement of indoor spaces except for indoor playroom is necessary, especially, advancement of the quality of teachers' rooms. Outputs by reflecting the end-user experiences support to understand which spaces are managed from the limited resources. Theoretical framework for daycare centre was established in Korea where guidelines were insufficient, and differences in perception of each risk of stakeholders were identified. Moreover, gradual statistical analysis was set to construct end-user-focused centres by extracting where the performance of space should be improved in prior.Identifying improvements priorities in daycare centre space performance from teachers' perspectives: application of importance–performance analysis and structural equation modelling
Kyung-Tae Lee, Jin-Bin Im, Sang-Jun Park, Ju-Hyung Kim
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Though daycare centres are built to facilitate children's social and physical growth, divergent stakeholder perceptions yield conflicts while managing risks for each space due to the minimal guidelines in the Republic of Korea. Due to the unclearly defined knowledge and experience gap between representative stakeholders, teachers have difficulties in operating it with high satisfaction. This study therefore was conducted to systematically identify which parts of performance should be increased to preferentially increase end-user satisfaction in limited resources.

This research conducted quantitative analysis gradually. Importance–performance analysis (IPA) grasped the perceptions of construction practitioners and end-users after identifying space composition and representative risks of daycare centres. Based on the factors influencing perception differences, principal component analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM) were conducted to determine which space improves the performance preferentially to increase overall end-user satisfaction.

As the utilisation of indoor spaces increases after COVID-19, improvement of indoor spaces except for indoor playroom is necessary, especially, advancement of the quality of teachers' rooms.

Outputs by reflecting the end-user experiences support to understand which spaces are managed from the limited resources.

Theoretical framework for daycare centre was established in Korea where guidelines were insufficient, and differences in perception of each risk of stakeholders were identified. Moreover, gradual statistical analysis was set to construct end-user-focused centres by extracting where the performance of space should be improved in prior.

]]>
Identifying improvements priorities in daycare centre space performance from teachers' perspectives: application of importance–performance analysis and structural equation modelling10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0777Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKyung-Tae LeeJin-Bin ImSang-Jun ParkJu-Hyung KimEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-1110.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0777https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0777/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Transforming construction health and safety management during COVID-19 pandemic using innovative technologies: PLS-SEM approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0780/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to investigate technology-based health and safety (H&S) management to control the spread of disease on construction sites using a partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach. An extensive literature review is conducted to develop a conceptual framework. The variables identified from the literature review are included in a cross-sectional survey which gathered a total of 203 valid feedback. The variables for challenges are grouped under their relevant construct using exploratory factor analysis. Then, a hypothesized model is developed for PLS-SEM analysis using Smart PLS software. Later, the outcome of the model is further validated by nine construction experts using a semi-structured questionnaire survey. The results rationalized the relationships between the COVID-19 H&S measures, challenges in implementing COVID-19 H&S measures on construction sites and the innovative technologies in transforming construction H&S management during the COVID-19 pandemic. The possible challenges that obstruct the implementation of H&S measures are highlighted. The potential technologies which can significantly transform H&S management by reducing the impact of challenges are presented. The findings benefited the industry practitioners who are suffering disruption in construction operations due to the pneumonic plague. By developing a conceptual model, this study reveals the contribution of technology-based H&S management for construction projects during the COVID-19 pandemic, which remains under-studied, especially in the context of the developing world.Transforming construction health and safety management during COVID-19 pandemic using innovative technologies: PLS-SEM approach
Yi Tong Kum, Jeffrey Boon Hui Yap, Yoke-Lian Lew, Wah Peng Lee
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to investigate technology-based health and safety (H&S) management to control the spread of disease on construction sites using a partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach.

An extensive literature review is conducted to develop a conceptual framework. The variables identified from the literature review are included in a cross-sectional survey which gathered a total of 203 valid feedback. The variables for challenges are grouped under their relevant construct using exploratory factor analysis. Then, a hypothesized model is developed for PLS-SEM analysis using Smart PLS software. Later, the outcome of the model is further validated by nine construction experts using a semi-structured questionnaire survey.

The results rationalized the relationships between the COVID-19 H&S measures, challenges in implementing COVID-19 H&S measures on construction sites and the innovative technologies in transforming construction H&S management during the COVID-19 pandemic. The possible challenges that obstruct the implementation of H&S measures are highlighted. The potential technologies which can significantly transform H&S management by reducing the impact of challenges are presented.

The findings benefited the industry practitioners who are suffering disruption in construction operations due to the pneumonic plague.

By developing a conceptual model, this study reveals the contribution of technology-based H&S management for construction projects during the COVID-19 pandemic, which remains under-studied, especially in the context of the developing world.

]]>
Transforming construction health and safety management during COVID-19 pandemic using innovative technologies: PLS-SEM approach10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0780Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-14© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedYi Tong KumJeffrey Boon Hui YapYoke-Lian LewWah Peng LeeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1410.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0780https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0780/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Mitigation strategies of public–private partnership (PPP) barriers in Palestinian construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0791/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe scarcity of literature related to the PPP (public-private partnership) barriers in construction projects within war areas, and hence the dearth of information to deliver viable and effective strategies to those barriers, are the primary causes for the failures of PPP schemes in such areas, particularly in Palestine. Financial and non-financial investments are more problematic in war zones than non-war nations and may escalate barrier for projects' success. The investigation purposes to discover proper answers to the barriers of PPP infrastructure schemes and highlight the execution of barrier reactions. Specialists were asked to deliver approaches to alleviate 21 barriers and recommend the period needed for applying them. Later, the relevance of alleviation events was examined through prioritization according to the results attained from three elements, i.e. the impact of every barrier and the strategy's viability and efficacy. While the most unfavorable barrier was finalized to be the unfeasibility of delivering physical security, the most valid answer was associated with the lack of government cohesiveness and responsibility to perform its duties. The discovered barriers are typical within warring nations, but the paper concentrated on Palestine. This study is an initial effort to examine PPP barriers in Palestinian infrastructure projects. The presented strategies can be applied as a novel set for barrier reaction improvement in occupied nations such as Palestine. Moreover, the results can develop the usage of PPP and enhance the barrier sharing in this scheme.Mitigation strategies of public–private partnership (PPP) barriers in Palestinian construction projects
Kawther Mousa, Zhenglian Zhang, Eli Sumarliah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The scarcity of literature related to the PPP (public-private partnership) barriers in construction projects within war areas, and hence the dearth of information to deliver viable and effective strategies to those barriers, are the primary causes for the failures of PPP schemes in such areas, particularly in Palestine. Financial and non-financial investments are more problematic in war zones than non-war nations and may escalate barrier for projects' success. The investigation purposes to discover proper answers to the barriers of PPP infrastructure schemes and highlight the execution of barrier reactions.

Specialists were asked to deliver approaches to alleviate 21 barriers and recommend the period needed for applying them. Later, the relevance of alleviation events was examined through prioritization according to the results attained from three elements, i.e. the impact of every barrier and the strategy's viability and efficacy.

While the most unfavorable barrier was finalized to be the unfeasibility of delivering physical security, the most valid answer was associated with the lack of government cohesiveness and responsibility to perform its duties. The discovered barriers are typical within warring nations, but the paper concentrated on Palestine.

This study is an initial effort to examine PPP barriers in Palestinian infrastructure projects. The presented strategies can be applied as a novel set for barrier reaction improvement in occupied nations such as Palestine. Moreover, the results can develop the usage of PPP and enhance the barrier sharing in this scheme.

]]>
Mitigation strategies of public–private partnership (PPP) barriers in Palestinian construction projects10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0791Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKawther MousaZhenglian ZhangEli SumarliahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-1010.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0791https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0791/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How and when creativity thrives in construction projects: a study of leader's humorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0792/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe present study aims to advance a new framework to spur creativity at individual and team levels in the construction industry by studying a leader's sense of humor. The authors develop and test a multi-level model to investigate the direct and indirect effects of leader's humor on creativity within teams working on construction projects. The authors draw on the benign violation theory to hypothesize that a leader's sense of humor influences the acceptability of norm violations in teams, which helps to improve their creativity. The authors also integrate the benign violation theory with the social information processing theory to examine the indirect effects of project leader's sense of humor on individual- and team-level creativity via team psychological safety. The authors collected data from 165 members nested in 45 teams working on construction projects in China. The construct's factor structure and discriminant validity were established through confirmatory factor analysis. The authors used multi-level modeling via Mplus to test team-level to the individual-level direct and indirect hypotheses, while team-level direct and indirect hypotheses were tested using ordinary least squares regression. The results show that the leader's humor has a dual positive direct effect on individual and team creativity. Furthermore, these effects are partially mediated by team psychological safety. The implications of these findings to improve the construction management theory and practice are discussed in the manuscript. The current study contributes to the literature by understanding the significance of leader humor in predicting individual-level and team-level creativity within the construction sector. It expands the literature by examining team psychological safety as the underlying mechanism in the relationship between leader humor and creativity.How and when creativity thrives in construction projects: a study of leader's humor
Ahmad Nabeel Siddiquei, Saima Ahmad, Kamal Badar, Fahad Asmi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The present study aims to advance a new framework to spur creativity at individual and team levels in the construction industry by studying a leader's sense of humor. The authors develop and test a multi-level model to investigate the direct and indirect effects of leader's humor on creativity within teams working on construction projects. The authors draw on the benign violation theory to hypothesize that a leader's sense of humor influences the acceptability of norm violations in teams, which helps to improve their creativity. The authors also integrate the benign violation theory with the social information processing theory to examine the indirect effects of project leader's sense of humor on individual- and team-level creativity via team psychological safety.

The authors collected data from 165 members nested in 45 teams working on construction projects in China. The construct's factor structure and discriminant validity were established through confirmatory factor analysis. The authors used multi-level modeling via Mplus to test team-level to the individual-level direct and indirect hypotheses, while team-level direct and indirect hypotheses were tested using ordinary least squares regression.

The results show that the leader's humor has a dual positive direct effect on individual and team creativity. Furthermore, these effects are partially mediated by team psychological safety. The implications of these findings to improve the construction management theory and practice are discussed in the manuscript.

The current study contributes to the literature by understanding the significance of leader humor in predicting individual-level and team-level creativity within the construction sector. It expands the literature by examining team psychological safety as the underlying mechanism in the relationship between leader humor and creativity.

]]>
How and when creativity thrives in construction projects: a study of leader's humor10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0792Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAhmad Nabeel SiddiqueiSaima AhmadKamal BadarFahad AsmiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-3010.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0792https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0792/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Effect of employee resilience on organizational resilience in construction projects: considering the role of project taskshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0797/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs the risks and uncertainties faced by construction projects increase, the study of organizational resilience becomes more and more important for construction project management. Therefore, this study aims to deepen the understanding of the micro-mechanisms of organizational resilience in construction projects and explore the impact of employee resilience on organizational resilience. By combining the conservation of resources, this study constructs the mechanism of employee resilience on organizational resilience in construction projects and considers the mediating role of task types. A partial least squares structural equation model (SEM) was used to test hypotheses based on data collected from 224 respondents. The results show that employees' work resilience has a direct positive impact on the organizational resilience in construction projects and is also mediated by inter-team tasks. However, the psychological resilience of employees will have a direct adverse effect on the organizational resilience in construction projects and will be mediated by inter-team tasks and intra-team tasks. This study verifies the impact mechanism of employee resilience on organizational resilience, including direct effects and indirect effects through different types of team tasks, and reveals the micro-mechanisms of using employee resources to build organizational resilience. This article sheds light on how project managers and employees can develop resilience to deal with the uncertainty and complexity of construction projects.Effect of employee resilience on organizational resilience in construction projects: considering the role of project tasks
Dedong Wang, Peng Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As the risks and uncertainties faced by construction projects increase, the study of organizational resilience becomes more and more important for construction project management. Therefore, this study aims to deepen the understanding of the micro-mechanisms of organizational resilience in construction projects and explore the impact of employee resilience on organizational resilience.

By combining the conservation of resources, this study constructs the mechanism of employee resilience on organizational resilience in construction projects and considers the mediating role of task types. A partial least squares structural equation model (SEM) was used to test hypotheses based on data collected from 224 respondents.

The results show that employees' work resilience has a direct positive impact on the organizational resilience in construction projects and is also mediated by inter-team tasks. However, the psychological resilience of employees will have a direct adverse effect on the organizational resilience in construction projects and will be mediated by inter-team tasks and intra-team tasks.

This study verifies the impact mechanism of employee resilience on organizational resilience, including direct effects and indirect effects through different types of team tasks, and reveals the micro-mechanisms of using employee resources to build organizational resilience. This article sheds light on how project managers and employees can develop resilience to deal with the uncertainty and complexity of construction projects.

]]>
Effect of employee resilience on organizational resilience in construction projects: considering the role of project tasks10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0797Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-24© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDedong WangPeng WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-2410.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0797https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0797/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A bibliometric analysis of digital technologies use in construction health and safetyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0798/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction is a risky industry. Therefore, organizations are seeking ways towards improving their safety performance. Among these, the integration of technology into health and safety leads to enhanced safety performance. Considering the benefits observed in using technology in safety, this study aims to explore digital technologies' use and potential benefits in construction health and safety. An extensive bibliometrics analysis was conducted to reveal which technologies are at the forefront of others and how these technologies are used in safety operations. The study used two different databases, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, to scan the literature in a systemic way. The systemic analysis of several studies showed that the digital technologies use in construction are still a niche theme and need more assessment. The study provided that sensors and wireless technology are of utmost importance in terms of construction safety. Moreover, the study revealed that artificial intelligence, machine learning, building information modeling (BIM), sensors and wireless technologies are trending technologies compared to unmanned aerial vehicles, serious games and the Internet of things. On the other hand, the study provided that the technologies are even more effective with integrated use like in the case of BIM and sensors or unmanned aerial vehicles. It was observed that the use of these technologies varies with respect to studies conducted in different countries. The study further revealed that the studies conducted on this topic are mostly published in some selected journals and international collaboration efforts in terms of researching the topic have been observed. This study provides an extensive analysis of WoS and Scopus databases and an in-depth review of the use of digital technologies in construction safety. The review consists of the most recent studies showing the benefits of using such technologies and showing the usage on a systemic level from which both scientists and practitioners can benefit to devise new strategies in technology usage.A bibliometric analysis of digital technologies use in construction health and safety
Esra Dobrucali, Emel Sadikoglu, Sevilay Demirkesen, Chengyi Zhang, Algan Tezel, Isik Ates Kiral
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction is a risky industry. Therefore, organizations are seeking ways towards improving their safety performance. Among these, the integration of technology into health and safety leads to enhanced safety performance. Considering the benefits observed in using technology in safety, this study aims to explore digital technologies' use and potential benefits in construction health and safety.

An extensive bibliometrics analysis was conducted to reveal which technologies are at the forefront of others and how these technologies are used in safety operations. The study used two different databases, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, to scan the literature in a systemic way.

The systemic analysis of several studies showed that the digital technologies use in construction are still a niche theme and need more assessment. The study provided that sensors and wireless technology are of utmost importance in terms of construction safety. Moreover, the study revealed that artificial intelligence, machine learning, building information modeling (BIM), sensors and wireless technologies are trending technologies compared to unmanned aerial vehicles, serious games and the Internet of things. On the other hand, the study provided that the technologies are even more effective with integrated use like in the case of BIM and sensors or unmanned aerial vehicles. It was observed that the use of these technologies varies with respect to studies conducted in different countries. The study further revealed that the studies conducted on this topic are mostly published in some selected journals and international collaboration efforts in terms of researching the topic have been observed.

This study provides an extensive analysis of WoS and Scopus databases and an in-depth review of the use of digital technologies in construction safety. The review consists of the most recent studies showing the benefits of using such technologies and showing the usage on a systemic level from which both scientists and practitioners can benefit to devise new strategies in technology usage.

]]>
A bibliometric analysis of digital technologies use in construction health and safety10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0798Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedEsra DobrucaliEmel SadikogluSevilay DemirkesenChengyi ZhangAlgan TezelIsik Ates KiralEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2010.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0798https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0798/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A framework of robust project portfolio selection problem under strategic objectives considering the risk propagationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0801/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe consideration of the substitution phenomenon in the project portfolio selection problem can improve the robustness of project portfolio selection and help enterprises better achieve their strategic objectives. However, the existence of inter-project risk propagation will have a negative impact on project substitution. This paper proposes a new framework for project portfolio selection and constructs a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to study the impact of risk propagation on substitution in the project portfolio. The authors first construct a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to describe the risk propagation between projects. Then the project substitution phenomenon based on risk propagation is put forward, and the calculation method of substitution loss is given. Finally, a robust project portfolio selection framework based on strategic objectives considering risk propagation is constructed. The analysis of a case study demonstrates that (1) With the increase of risk intensity, the strategic loss of the same project portfolio increases linearly, and under the same risk intensity, the more projects in the portfolio, the stronger the robustness. (2) Considering risk propagation, the effect of project substitution is significantly weakened, and the strategic loss rate of the project portfolio is significantly increased compared with that of a direct attack. This study is the first to take the project substitution into account in the project portfolio selection process. Moreover, the authors describe inter-project risk propagation and analyze the impact of risk propagation on the project substitution phenomenon. Finally, the authors extend the evaluation index of robustness. This paper puts forward a new way to solve the problem of project portfolio selection.A framework of robust project portfolio selection problem under strategic objectives considering the risk propagation
Ruyue Han, Xingmei Li, Zhong Shen, Dongqing Jia
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The consideration of the substitution phenomenon in the project portfolio selection problem can improve the robustness of project portfolio selection and help enterprises better achieve their strategic objectives. However, the existence of inter-project risk propagation will have a negative impact on project substitution. This paper proposes a new framework for project portfolio selection and constructs a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to study the impact of risk propagation on substitution in the project portfolio.

The authors first construct a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to describe the risk propagation between projects. Then the project substitution phenomenon based on risk propagation is put forward, and the calculation method of substitution loss is given. Finally, a robust project portfolio selection framework based on strategic objectives considering risk propagation is constructed.

The analysis of a case study demonstrates that (1) With the increase of risk intensity, the strategic loss of the same project portfolio increases linearly, and under the same risk intensity, the more projects in the portfolio, the stronger the robustness. (2) Considering risk propagation, the effect of project substitution is significantly weakened, and the strategic loss rate of the project portfolio is significantly increased compared with that of a direct attack.

This study is the first to take the project substitution into account in the project portfolio selection process. Moreover, the authors describe inter-project risk propagation and analyze the impact of risk propagation on the project substitution phenomenon. Finally, the authors extend the evaluation index of robustness. This paper puts forward a new way to solve the problem of project portfolio selection.

]]>
A framework of robust project portfolio selection problem under strategic objectives considering the risk propagation10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0801Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedRuyue HanXingmei LiZhong ShenDongqing JiaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0710.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0801https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0801/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing emotionally competent engineers for the ever-changing built environmenthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0806/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs the world experiences a rapid rise in technological advances, the engineering profession will be required to become even more socially responsible and emotionally stable to be able to display higher levels of empathy towards the society they serve. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the key emotional competencies (ECs) that engineers need to possess to thrive in the construction industry after graduation. A quantitative research approach was conducted with close-ended questionnaires developed and administered to built environment professionals such as architects, construction managers, construction project managers, engineers and quantity surveyors. The results showed that the ability to display a positive outlook on life, understand one's emotional triggers, ability to display resilience in hard times, control one's emotions and ability to show compassion to others were the highest-ranked ECs. Further analysis revealed four clusters such as self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation and self-motivation. Practical guidance for higher education institutions is offered in terms of revamping and revisiting their engineering education curricula to develop these ECs to produce emotionally sound engineers for the ever-changing world of work. As the world of work becomes increasingly dynamic and diverse, engineers will be required to possess empathy, social skills and high levels of ECs to be able to seamlessly interact with fellow professionals as well as the society they serve.Developing emotionally competent engineers for the ever-changing built environment
John Aliu, Douglas Aghimien, Clinton Aigbavboa, Andrew Ebekozien, Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke, Samuel Adeniyi Adekunle, Opeoluwa Akinradewo, Olushola Akinshipe
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As the world experiences a rapid rise in technological advances, the engineering profession will be required to become even more socially responsible and emotionally stable to be able to display higher levels of empathy towards the society they serve. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the key emotional competencies (ECs) that engineers need to possess to thrive in the construction industry after graduation.

A quantitative research approach was conducted with close-ended questionnaires developed and administered to built environment professionals such as architects, construction managers, construction project managers, engineers and quantity surveyors.

The results showed that the ability to display a positive outlook on life, understand one's emotional triggers, ability to display resilience in hard times, control one's emotions and ability to show compassion to others were the highest-ranked ECs. Further analysis revealed four clusters such as self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation and self-motivation.

Practical guidance for higher education institutions is offered in terms of revamping and revisiting their engineering education curricula to develop these ECs to produce emotionally sound engineers for the ever-changing world of work.

As the world of work becomes increasingly dynamic and diverse, engineers will be required to possess empathy, social skills and high levels of ECs to be able to seamlessly interact with fellow professionals as well as the society they serve.

]]>
Developing emotionally competent engineers for the ever-changing built environment10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0806Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-27© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedJohn AliuDouglas AghimienClinton AigbavboaAndrew EbekozienAyodeji Emmanuel OkeSamuel Adeniyi AdekunleOpeoluwa AkinradewoOlushola AkinshipeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2710.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0806https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2022-0806/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
A hybrid spherical fuzzy AHP-MARCOS model for evaluating the condition of saltwater pipes in Hong Konghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0777/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWater pipes degrade over time for a variety of pipe-related, soil-related, operational, and environmental factors. Hence, municipalities are necessitated to implement effective maintenance and rehabilitation strategies for water pipes based on reliable deterioration models and cost-effective inspection programs. In the light of foregoing, the paramount objective of this research study is to develop condition assessment and deterioration prediction models for saltwater pipes in Hong Kong. As a perquisite to the development of condition assessment models, spherical fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (SFAHP) is harnessed to analyze the relative importance weights of deterioration factors. Afterward, the relative importance weights of deterioration factors coupled with their effective values are leveraged using the measurement of alternatives and ranking according to the compromise solution (MARCOS) algorithm to analyze the performance condition of water pipes. A condition rating system is then designed counting on the generalized entropy-based probabilistic fuzzy C means (GEPFCM) algorithm. A set of fourth order multiple regression functions are constructed to capture the degradation trends in condition of pipelines overtime covering their disparate characteristics. Analytical results demonstrated that the top five influential deterioration factors comprise age, material, traffic, soil corrosivity and material. In addition, it was derived that developed deterioration models accomplished correlation coefficient, mean absolute error and root mean squared error of 0.8, 1.33 and 1.39, respectively. It can be argued that generated deterioration models can assist municipalities in formulating accurate and cost-effective maintenance, repair and rehabilitation programs.A hybrid spherical fuzzy AHP-MARCOS model for evaluating the condition of saltwater pipes in Hong Kong
Nehal Elshaboury, Tarek Zayed, Eslam Mohammed Abdelkader
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Water pipes degrade over time for a variety of pipe-related, soil-related, operational, and environmental factors. Hence, municipalities are necessitated to implement effective maintenance and rehabilitation strategies for water pipes based on reliable deterioration models and cost-effective inspection programs. In the light of foregoing, the paramount objective of this research study is to develop condition assessment and deterioration prediction models for saltwater pipes in Hong Kong.

As a perquisite to the development of condition assessment models, spherical fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (SFAHP) is harnessed to analyze the relative importance weights of deterioration factors. Afterward, the relative importance weights of deterioration factors coupled with their effective values are leveraged using the measurement of alternatives and ranking according to the compromise solution (MARCOS) algorithm to analyze the performance condition of water pipes. A condition rating system is then designed counting on the generalized entropy-based probabilistic fuzzy C means (GEPFCM) algorithm. A set of fourth order multiple regression functions are constructed to capture the degradation trends in condition of pipelines overtime covering their disparate characteristics.

Analytical results demonstrated that the top five influential deterioration factors comprise age, material, traffic, soil corrosivity and material. In addition, it was derived that developed deterioration models accomplished correlation coefficient, mean absolute error and root mean squared error of 0.8, 1.33 and 1.39, respectively.

It can be argued that generated deterioration models can assist municipalities in formulating accurate and cost-effective maintenance, repair and rehabilitation programs.

]]>
A hybrid spherical fuzzy AHP-MARCOS model for evaluating the condition of saltwater pipes in Hong Kong10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0777Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-21© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedNehal ElshabouryTarek ZayedEslam Mohammed AbdelkaderEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2110.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0777https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0777/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessing green innovation practices in construction firms: a developing-country perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0788/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn developing countries, construction organizations are seeking to effectively implement green innovation strategies. Thus, this study aims to assess the importance of green innovation practices and develop a measurement model for quantifying the green innovation degrees of construction firms. A mixed-methods research approach is adopted. First, an extensive literature review is performed to identify potential green innovation items, which are then used to design a preliminary questionnaire. Next, expert interviews are conducted to pilot-test this questionnaire. Subsequently, by using a convenience non-probability sampling method, 88 valid responses are collected from construction firms in Vietnam. Then, one-sample and independent-samples t tests are employed to assess the importance of green innovation practices. Fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) is also applied to quantitatively compare such practices. Finally, green innovation level (GIL) is proposed to measure the green innovation indexes and validated by a case study of seven construction firms. This study identifies 13 green innovation variables, of which several key practices are highlighted for small/medium and large construction firms. The results of FSE analysis indicate that green process innovation is the most vital green category in construction firms, followed by green product and management innovations, respectively. As a quantitative measure, GIL could allow construction firms to frequently evaluate their green innovation indexes, thereby promoting green innovation practices comprehensively. Hence, construction firms would significantly enhance green competitive advantages and increasingly contribute to green and sustainable construction developments. This research is one of the first attempts to integrate various green innovation practices into a comprehensive formulation. The established indexes offer detailed green innovation evaluations, which could be considered as valuable references for construction practitioners. Furthermore, a reliable and practical tool (i.e. GIL) is proposed to measure the GILs of construction firms in developing countries.Assessing green innovation practices in construction firms: a developing-country perspective
Chau Ngoc Dang, Warit Wipulanusat, Peem Nuaklong, Boonsap Witchayangkoon
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In developing countries, construction organizations are seeking to effectively implement green innovation strategies. Thus, this study aims to assess the importance of green innovation practices and develop a measurement model for quantifying the green innovation degrees of construction firms.

A mixed-methods research approach is adopted. First, an extensive literature review is performed to identify potential green innovation items, which are then used to design a preliminary questionnaire. Next, expert interviews are conducted to pilot-test this questionnaire. Subsequently, by using a convenience non-probability sampling method, 88 valid responses are collected from construction firms in Vietnam. Then, one-sample and independent-samples t tests are employed to assess the importance of green innovation practices. Fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) is also applied to quantitatively compare such practices. Finally, green innovation level (GIL) is proposed to measure the green innovation indexes and validated by a case study of seven construction firms.

This study identifies 13 green innovation variables, of which several key practices are highlighted for small/medium and large construction firms. The results of FSE analysis indicate that green process innovation is the most vital green category in construction firms, followed by green product and management innovations, respectively. As a quantitative measure, GIL could allow construction firms to frequently evaluate their green innovation indexes, thereby promoting green innovation practices comprehensively. Hence, construction firms would significantly enhance green competitive advantages and increasingly contribute to green and sustainable construction developments.

This research is one of the first attempts to integrate various green innovation practices into a comprehensive formulation. The established indexes offer detailed green innovation evaluations, which could be considered as valuable references for construction practitioners. Furthermore, a reliable and practical tool (i.e. GIL) is proposed to measure the GILs of construction firms in developing countries.

]]>
Assessing green innovation practices in construction firms: a developing-country perspective10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0788Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-15© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedChau Ngoc DangWarit WipulanusatPeem NuaklongBoonsap WitchayangkoonEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1510.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0788https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0788/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A decision-support framework for suspension of public infrastructure projects: a combined use of neutrosophic AHP and TOPSIShttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0795/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to develop a decision-support framework that can be used by decision-makers to suspend public infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study also investigates how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension. The proposed framework includes an extensive set of factors and a novel comparison mechanism that can reveal the most convenient infrastructure project to be suspended. A comprehensible literature review and focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted to identify factors that should be considered for suspension. Then, the neutrosophic analytic hierarchy process (N-AHP) method was used to determine the relative importance of the factors. Finally, the proposed comparison mechanism was demonstrated through a hypothetical case study and Technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) analysis. Results showed that suspension decisions cannot be made merely based on “financial” factors. Instead, the other aspects, namely “Technical and managerial” and “Social and Environmental”, should also be taken into consideration. Second, factors related to the initial investment, cost of refinancing, cash flow, permits and approvals, insufficiency of bidders, degradation of the components, reputation, impact on stakeholders and criticality of the infrastructure were particularly elaborated as the most significant, needing the utmost attention of the decision-makers. Lastly, the results demonstrated that the proposed comparison mechanism has considerable potential to identify the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension. Public infrastructure projects are often under pressure due to the inflationary state and economic stagnation of countries after major crises. The suspension decision for infrastructure projects necessitates comprehensible assessments to consider all consequences. Studies have widely investigated the contractual and legal aspects of project suspension in light of existing literature. However, little effort has been devoted to identifying the factors that decision-makers should consider before suspending a particular infrastructure project. Furthermore, existing literature does not investigate how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension either. Thus, by developing a specific suspension framework for infrastructure projects by considering various factors, this study is the earliest attempt to examine the contract suspension mechanism of public infrastructure projects. In this respect, the study significantly contributes to the theory of contract management domain and has important managerial implications.A decision-support framework for suspension of public infrastructure projects: a combined use of neutrosophic AHP and TOPSIS
Ozan Okudan, Gökhan Demirdöğen, Zeynep Işık
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to develop a decision-support framework that can be used by decision-makers to suspend public infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study also investigates how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension.

The proposed framework includes an extensive set of factors and a novel comparison mechanism that can reveal the most convenient infrastructure project to be suspended. A comprehensible literature review and focus group discussion (FGD) sessions were conducted to identify factors that should be considered for suspension. Then, the neutrosophic analytic hierarchy process (N-AHP) method was used to determine the relative importance of the factors. Finally, the proposed comparison mechanism was demonstrated through a hypothetical case study and Technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) analysis.

Results showed that suspension decisions cannot be made merely based on “financial” factors. Instead, the other aspects, namely “Technical and managerial” and “Social and Environmental”, should also be taken into consideration. Second, factors related to the initial investment, cost of refinancing, cash flow, permits and approvals, insufficiency of bidders, degradation of the components, reputation, impact on stakeholders and criticality of the infrastructure were particularly elaborated as the most significant, needing the utmost attention of the decision-makers. Lastly, the results demonstrated that the proposed comparison mechanism has considerable potential to identify the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension.

Public infrastructure projects are often under pressure due to the inflationary state and economic stagnation of countries after major crises. The suspension decision for infrastructure projects necessitates comprehensible assessments to consider all consequences. Studies have widely investigated the contractual and legal aspects of project suspension in light of existing literature. However, little effort has been devoted to identifying the factors that decision-makers should consider before suspending a particular infrastructure project. Furthermore, existing literature does not investigate how to select the most convenient infrastructure project for suspension either. Thus, by developing a specific suspension framework for infrastructure projects by considering various factors, this study is the earliest attempt to examine the contract suspension mechanism of public infrastructure projects. In this respect, the study significantly contributes to the theory of contract management domain and has important managerial implications.

]]>
A decision-support framework for suspension of public infrastructure projects: a combined use of neutrosophic AHP and TOPSIS10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0795Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-19© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedOzan OkudanGökhan DemirdöğenZeynep IşıkEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1910.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0795https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0795/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Predicting structure performance of urban critical infrastructure: an augmented attention-based LSTM modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0801/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAccurate prediction of the structural condition of urban critical infrastructure is crucial for predictive maintenance. However, the existing prediction methods lack precision due to limitations in utilizing heterogeneous sensing data and domain knowledge as well as insufficient generalizability resulting from limited data samples. This paper integrates implicit and qualitative expert knowledge into quantifiable values in tunnel condition assessment and proposes a tunnel structure prediction algorithm that augments a state-of-the-art attention-based long short-term memory (LSTM) model with expert rating knowledge to achieve robust prediction results to reasonably allocate maintenance resources. Through formalizing domain experts' knowledge into quantitative tunnel condition index (TCI) with analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a fusion approach using sequence smoothing and sliding time window techniques is applied to the TCI and time-series sensing data. By incorporating both sensing data and expert ratings, an attention-based LSTM model is developed to improve prediction accuracy and reduce the uncertainty of structural influencing factors. The empirical experiment in Dalian Road Tunnel in Shanghai, China showcases the effectiveness of the proposed method, which can comprehensively evaluate the tunnel structure condition and significantly improve prediction performance. This study proposes a novel structure condition prediction algorithm that augments a state-of-the-art attention-based LSTM model with expert rating knowledge for robust prediction of structure condition of complex projects.Predicting structure performance of urban critical infrastructure: an augmented attention-based LSTM model
Gang Yu, Zhiqiang Li, Ruochen Zeng, Yucong Jin, Min Hu, Vijayan Sugumaran
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Accurate prediction of the structural condition of urban critical infrastructure is crucial for predictive maintenance. However, the existing prediction methods lack precision due to limitations in utilizing heterogeneous sensing data and domain knowledge as well as insufficient generalizability resulting from limited data samples. This paper integrates implicit and qualitative expert knowledge into quantifiable values in tunnel condition assessment and proposes a tunnel structure prediction algorithm that augments a state-of-the-art attention-based long short-term memory (LSTM) model with expert rating knowledge to achieve robust prediction results to reasonably allocate maintenance resources.

Through formalizing domain experts' knowledge into quantitative tunnel condition index (TCI) with analytic hierarchy process (AHP), a fusion approach using sequence smoothing and sliding time window techniques is applied to the TCI and time-series sensing data. By incorporating both sensing data and expert ratings, an attention-based LSTM model is developed to improve prediction accuracy and reduce the uncertainty of structural influencing factors.

The empirical experiment in Dalian Road Tunnel in Shanghai, China showcases the effectiveness of the proposed method, which can comprehensively evaluate the tunnel structure condition and significantly improve prediction performance.

This study proposes a novel structure condition prediction algorithm that augments a state-of-the-art attention-based LSTM model with expert rating knowledge for robust prediction of structure condition of complex projects.

]]>
Predicting structure performance of urban critical infrastructure: an augmented attention-based LSTM model10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0801Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-20© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedGang YuZhiqiang LiRuochen ZengYucong JinMin HuVijayan SugumaranEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2010.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0801https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0801/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Diffusion of BIM policies in China: an event history analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0826/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the critical role of the policy environment in facilitating the advancement of building information modeling (BIM) as a systemic innovation to reshape traditional facility design, construction and operation processes, scant scholarly attention has been paid to systematically investigating how and why complex BIM policies are concretely and gradually implemented in different regional contexts from a dynamic policy diffusion perspective. This study aims to empirically investigate how different types of BIM policy instruments are dynamically implemented in heterogeneous regions over time and how the diffusion of BIM policies across different regions is comprehensively impacted by both internal efficiency needs and external legitimacy pressures. This study employed a positivist research paradigm in which BIM policy data from 182 prefecture-level and above cities in China during 2011–2022 were analyzed with quantitative approaches for theory verification. Based on the content analysis of the evolutionary characteristics of the adopted BIM policy instruments in heterogeneous regions over time, the event history analysis (EHA) method was then used to further examine the mechanisms underlying the diffusion of BIM policies across different regions. The content analysis results show that while environmental instruments (such as technological integration and goal planning) are the primary policy instruments currently adopted in China, recent years have also witnessed increasing adoptions of supply-side instruments (such as fiscal support and information support) and demand-side instruments (such as demonstration projects and tax incentives). After controlling for the impacts of regional fiscal and technical resources, the EHA results illustrate that BIM policy adoption positively relates to regional construction industry scale but negatively relates to regional industry productivity and that compared with public pressures from industry participants, vertical pressures from the central government and horizontal pressures from neighboring regions are more substantial drivers for policy adoption. As an exploratory effort of using a dynamic policy diffusion perspective to systematically investigate how BIM policies are adopted in heterogeneous regional contexts to facilitate BIM advancement, this study not only characterizes the complexity and dynamics of BIM policies but also provides deepened understandings of the mechanisms underlying policy adoption in the conservative construction industry. The findings hold implications for how multifarious policy instruments can be more effectively and dynamically adopted to facilitate the advancement of BIM and related technologies as innovative solutions in the construction domain.Diffusion of BIM policies in China: an event history analysis
Yu Yang, Shiting Shao, Dongping Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the critical role of the policy environment in facilitating the advancement of building information modeling (BIM) as a systemic innovation to reshape traditional facility design, construction and operation processes, scant scholarly attention has been paid to systematically investigating how and why complex BIM policies are concretely and gradually implemented in different regional contexts from a dynamic policy diffusion perspective. This study aims to empirically investigate how different types of BIM policy instruments are dynamically implemented in heterogeneous regions over time and how the diffusion of BIM policies across different regions is comprehensively impacted by both internal efficiency needs and external legitimacy pressures.

This study employed a positivist research paradigm in which BIM policy data from 182 prefecture-level and above cities in China during 2011–2022 were analyzed with quantitative approaches for theory verification. Based on the content analysis of the evolutionary characteristics of the adopted BIM policy instruments in heterogeneous regions over time, the event history analysis (EHA) method was then used to further examine the mechanisms underlying the diffusion of BIM policies across different regions.

The content analysis results show that while environmental instruments (such as technological integration and goal planning) are the primary policy instruments currently adopted in China, recent years have also witnessed increasing adoptions of supply-side instruments (such as fiscal support and information support) and demand-side instruments (such as demonstration projects and tax incentives). After controlling for the impacts of regional fiscal and technical resources, the EHA results illustrate that BIM policy adoption positively relates to regional construction industry scale but negatively relates to regional industry productivity and that compared with public pressures from industry participants, vertical pressures from the central government and horizontal pressures from neighboring regions are more substantial drivers for policy adoption.

As an exploratory effort of using a dynamic policy diffusion perspective to systematically investigate how BIM policies are adopted in heterogeneous regional contexts to facilitate BIM advancement, this study not only characterizes the complexity and dynamics of BIM policies but also provides deepened understandings of the mechanisms underlying policy adoption in the conservative construction industry. The findings hold implications for how multifarious policy instruments can be more effectively and dynamically adopted to facilitate the advancement of BIM and related technologies as innovative solutions in the construction domain.

]]>
Diffusion of BIM policies in China: an event history analysis10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0826Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-27© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedYu YangShiting ShaoDongping CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2710.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0826https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0826/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
IoT-based digital twin best practices for reducing operational carbon in building retrofitting: a mixed-method approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0827/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe Internet of Things-based digital twin (IoT-DT) technologies offer a transformative approach to building retrofitting for reducing operational carbon (ROC) emissions. However, a notable gap exists between the potential and adoption of the two emerging technologies, further exacerbated by the nascent state of research in this domain. This research aims to establish the best practices that innovatively strengthen the identified enablers to decisively tackle challenges, ensuring the efficient implementation of IoT-DT for ROC emissions in buildings. This study adopted a mixed-method approach. Questionnaire data from 220 multidiscipline professionals were analysed via structural equation modelling analysis, while interview data obtained from 18 stakeholders were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings were triangulated for cohesive interpretation. After the analysis of questionnaire data, a structural model was established, depicting the critical challenges (inadequate data security, limited technical expertise and scalability issues) and key enablers (robust data security measures, skill development and government incentives) of implementing IoT-DT for ROC. Sequentially, analysis of in-depth interview data revealed the IoT-based DT best practices (safeguarding data, upskilling and incentivization). Upon triangulating the questionnaire and interview findings, this study explicitly highlights the potential of the established best practices to strategically strengthen enablers, thereby mitigating challenges and ensuring the successful implementation of IoT-based DT for ROC emissions in buildings. This study provides practical guidance for stakeholders to effectively implement IoT-DT in ROC in buildings and contributes significantly to climate change mitigation.IoT-based digital twin best practices for reducing operational carbon in building retrofitting: a mixed-method approach
Chukwuka Christian Ohueri, Md. Asrul Nasid Masrom, Hadina Habil, Mohamud Saeed Ambashe
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The Internet of Things-based digital twin (IoT-DT) technologies offer a transformative approach to building retrofitting for reducing operational carbon (ROC) emissions. However, a notable gap exists between the potential and adoption of the two emerging technologies, further exacerbated by the nascent state of research in this domain. This research aims to establish the best practices that innovatively strengthen the identified enablers to decisively tackle challenges, ensuring the efficient implementation of IoT-DT for ROC emissions in buildings.

This study adopted a mixed-method approach. Questionnaire data from 220 multidiscipline professionals were analysed via structural equation modelling analysis, while interview data obtained from 18 stakeholders were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings were triangulated for cohesive interpretation.

After the analysis of questionnaire data, a structural model was established, depicting the critical challenges (inadequate data security, limited technical expertise and scalability issues) and key enablers (robust data security measures, skill development and government incentives) of implementing IoT-DT for ROC. Sequentially, analysis of in-depth interview data revealed the IoT-based DT best practices (safeguarding data, upskilling and incentivization). Upon triangulating the questionnaire and interview findings, this study explicitly highlights the potential of the established best practices to strategically strengthen enablers, thereby mitigating challenges and ensuring the successful implementation of IoT-based DT for ROC emissions in buildings.

This study provides practical guidance for stakeholders to effectively implement IoT-DT in ROC in buildings and contributes significantly to climate change mitigation.

]]>
IoT-based digital twin best practices for reducing operational carbon in building retrofitting: a mixed-method approach10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0827Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-11© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedChukwuka Christian OhueriMd. Asrul Nasid MasromHadina HabilMohamud Saeed AmbasheEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1110.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0827https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0827/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The mechanical deformation characteristics of the internal structure of large diameter shield tunnel in different construction stageshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0839/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestUnder the repeated action of the construction load, opening deformation and disturbed deformation occurred at the precast box culvert joints of the shield tunnel. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of construction vehicle loading on the mechanical deformation characteristics of the internal structure of a large-diameter shield tunnel during the entire construction period. The structural response of the prefabricated internal structure under heavy construction vehicle loads at four different construction stages (prefabricated box culvert installation, curved lining cast-in-place, lane slab installation and pavement structure casting) was analyzed through field tests and ABAQUS (finite element analysis software) numerical simulation. Heavy construction vehicles can cause significant mechanical impacts on the internal structure, as the construction phase progresses, the integrity of the internal structure with the tunnel section increases. The vertical and horizontal deformation of the internal structure is significantly reduced, and the overall stress level of the internal structure is reduced. The bolts connecting the precast box culvert have the maximum stress at the initial stage of construction, as the construction proceeds the stress distribution among the bolts gradually becomes uniform. This study can provide a reference for the design model, theoretical analysis and construction technology of the internal structure during the construction of large-diameter tunnel projects.The mechanical deformation characteristics of the internal structure of large diameter shield tunnel in different construction stages
Xiwen Zhang, Zhen Zhang, Wenhao Sun, Jilei Hu, Liangliang Zhang, Weidong Zhu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Under the repeated action of the construction load, opening deformation and disturbed deformation occurred at the precast box culvert joints of the shield tunnel. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of construction vehicle loading on the mechanical deformation characteristics of the internal structure of a large-diameter shield tunnel during the entire construction period.

The structural response of the prefabricated internal structure under heavy construction vehicle loads at four different construction stages (prefabricated box culvert installation, curved lining cast-in-place, lane slab installation and pavement structure casting) was analyzed through field tests and ABAQUS (finite element analysis software) numerical simulation.

Heavy construction vehicles can cause significant mechanical impacts on the internal structure, as the construction phase progresses, the integrity of the internal structure with the tunnel section increases. The vertical and horizontal deformation of the internal structure is significantly reduced, and the overall stress level of the internal structure is reduced. The bolts connecting the precast box culvert have the maximum stress at the initial stage of construction, as the construction proceeds the stress distribution among the bolts gradually becomes uniform.

This study can provide a reference for the design model, theoretical analysis and construction technology of the internal structure during the construction of large-diameter tunnel projects.

]]>
The mechanical deformation characteristics of the internal structure of large diameter shield tunnel in different construction stages10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0839Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiwen ZhangZhen ZhangWenhao SunJilei HuLiangliang ZhangWeidong ZhuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1410.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0839https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0839/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Development of a project complexity measurement model for metro rail projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0845/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this research is to develop a project complexity index (PCI) model using the best and worst method (BWM) to quantitatively analyze the impact of project complexities on the performance of metro rail projects. This study employed a two-phase research methodology. The first phase identifies complexities through a literature review and expert discussions and categorizes different types of complexities in metro rail projects. In the second phase, BWM, a robust multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique, was used to prioritize key complexities, and a PCI model was developed. Further, the developed PCI was validated through case studies, and sensitivity analysis was performed to check the accuracy and applicability of the developed PCI model. The analysis revealed that location complexity exerted the most substantial influence on project performance, followed by environmental, organizational, technological and contractual complexities. Sensitivity analysis revealed the varying impacts of complexity indices on the overall project complexity. The study's findings offer a novel approach for measuring project complexity's impact on metro rail projects. This allows stakeholders to make informed decisions, allocate resources efficiently and plan strategically. The existing studies on project complexity identification and quantification were limited to megaprojects other than metro rail projects. Efforts to quantitatively study and analyze the impact of project complexity on metro rail projects are left unattended. The developed PCI model and its validation contribute to the field by providing a definite method to measure and manage complexity in metro rail projects.Development of a project complexity measurement model for metro rail projects
Dara Sruthilaya, Aneetha Vilventhan, P.R.C. Gopal
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this research is to develop a project complexity index (PCI) model using the best and worst method (BWM) to quantitatively analyze the impact of project complexities on the performance of metro rail projects.

This study employed a two-phase research methodology. The first phase identifies complexities through a literature review and expert discussions and categorizes different types of complexities in metro rail projects. In the second phase, BWM, a robust multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique, was used to prioritize key complexities, and a PCI model was developed. Further, the developed PCI was validated through case studies, and sensitivity analysis was performed to check the accuracy and applicability of the developed PCI model.

The analysis revealed that location complexity exerted the most substantial influence on project performance, followed by environmental, organizational, technological and contractual complexities. Sensitivity analysis revealed the varying impacts of complexity indices on the overall project complexity.

The study's findings offer a novel approach for measuring project complexity's impact on metro rail projects. This allows stakeholders to make informed decisions, allocate resources efficiently and plan strategically.

The existing studies on project complexity identification and quantification were limited to megaprojects other than metro rail projects. Efforts to quantitatively study and analyze the impact of project complexity on metro rail projects are left unattended. The developed PCI model and its validation contribute to the field by providing a definite method to measure and manage complexity in metro rail projects.

]]>
Development of a project complexity measurement model for metro rail projects10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0845Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-09© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDara SruthilayaAneetha VilventhanP.R.C. GopalEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-0910.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0845https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0845/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Key performance indicators of construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment in Iranhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0852/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestKey performance indicators (KPIs) play a pivotal role in evaluating the level of success of an organization in achieving its business objectives. The objective of the current research is to identify and prioritize effective KPIs in branding products and construction projects, which contribute to the success of construction companies in a competitive environment. The present research is of an inferential, descriptive and survey nature. In this study, we identified the influential key performance indicators of construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment through a literature review and expert opinions. The data were collected using a questionnaire, and a combination of the one-sample t-test method with a 95% confidence level and the fuzzy multiple attribute decision-making (FMADM) method was employed for analysis. The results indicate that the most influential key performance indicators for construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment are, in order of significance, the following indices: “Marketing and Advertising,” “Financial,” “Creativity,” “Technical and Operational” and “Social and Political.” The present research examines the importance of branding construction products and projects for the success of construction companies by improving their business objectives and utilizing key performance indicators throughout the product lifecycle (production and construction). This study provides solutions on how construction companies can increase their competitive advantage through branding and achieve long-term success in the global construction industry.Key performance indicators of construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment in Iran
Erfan Anjomshoa
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Key performance indicators (KPIs) play a pivotal role in evaluating the level of success of an organization in achieving its business objectives. The objective of the current research is to identify and prioritize effective KPIs in branding products and construction projects, which contribute to the success of construction companies in a competitive environment.

The present research is of an inferential, descriptive and survey nature. In this study, we identified the influential key performance indicators of construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment through a literature review and expert opinions. The data were collected using a questionnaire, and a combination of the one-sample t-test method with a 95% confidence level and the fuzzy multiple attribute decision-making (FMADM) method was employed for analysis.

The results indicate that the most influential key performance indicators for construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment are, in order of significance, the following indices: “Marketing and Advertising,” “Financial,” “Creativity,” “Technical and Operational” and “Social and Political.”

The present research examines the importance of branding construction products and projects for the success of construction companies by improving their business objectives and utilizing key performance indicators throughout the product lifecycle (production and construction). This study provides solutions on how construction companies can increase their competitive advantage through branding and achieve long-term success in the global construction industry.

]]>
Key performance indicators of construction companies in branding products and construction projects for success in a competitive environment in Iran10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0852Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-27© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedErfan AnjomshoaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2710.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0852https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0852/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Predicting construction equipment resale price: machine learning modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0857/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe equipment resale price plays an important role in calculating the optimum time for equipment replacement. Some of the existing models that predict the equipment resale price do not take many of the influencing factors on the resale price into account. Other models consider more factors that influence equipment resale price, but they still with low accuracy because of the modeling techniques that were used. An easy tool is required to help in forecasting the resale price and support efficient decisions for equipment replacement. This research presents a machine learning (ML) computer model helping in forecasting accurately the equipment resale price. A measuring method for the influencing factors that have impacts on the equipment resale price was determined. The values of those factors were measured for 1,700 pieces of equipment and their corresponding resale price. The data were used to develop a ML model that covers three types of equipment (loaders, excavators and bulldozers). The methodology used to develop the model applied three ML algorithms: the random forest regressor, extra trees regressor and decision tree regressor, to find an accurate model for the equipment resale price. The three algorithms were verified and tested with data of 340 pieces of equipment. Using a large number of data to train the ML model resulted in a high-accuracy predicting model. The accuracy of the extra trees regressor algorithm was the highest among the three used algorithms to develop the ML model. The accuracy of the model is 98%. A computer interface is designed to make the use of the model easier. The proposed model is accurate and makes it easy to predict the equipment resale price. The predicted resale price can be used to calculate equipment elements that are essential for developing a dependable equipment replacement plan. The proposed model was developed based on the most influencing factors on the equipment resale price and evaluation of those factors was done using reliable methods. The technique used to develop the model is the ML that proved its accuracy in modeling. The accuracy of the model, which is 98%, enhances the value of the model.Predicting construction equipment resale price: machine learning model
Hossam Mohamed Toma, Ahmed H. Abdeen, Ahmed Ibrahim
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The equipment resale price plays an important role in calculating the optimum time for equipment replacement. Some of the existing models that predict the equipment resale price do not take many of the influencing factors on the resale price into account. Other models consider more factors that influence equipment resale price, but they still with low accuracy because of the modeling techniques that were used. An easy tool is required to help in forecasting the resale price and support efficient decisions for equipment replacement. This research presents a machine learning (ML) computer model helping in forecasting accurately the equipment resale price.

A measuring method for the influencing factors that have impacts on the equipment resale price was determined. The values of those factors were measured for 1,700 pieces of equipment and their corresponding resale price. The data were used to develop a ML model that covers three types of equipment (loaders, excavators and bulldozers). The methodology used to develop the model applied three ML algorithms: the random forest regressor, extra trees regressor and decision tree regressor, to find an accurate model for the equipment resale price. The three algorithms were verified and tested with data of 340 pieces of equipment.

Using a large number of data to train the ML model resulted in a high-accuracy predicting model. The accuracy of the extra trees regressor algorithm was the highest among the three used algorithms to develop the ML model. The accuracy of the model is 98%. A computer interface is designed to make the use of the model easier.

The proposed model is accurate and makes it easy to predict the equipment resale price. The predicted resale price can be used to calculate equipment elements that are essential for developing a dependable equipment replacement plan. The proposed model was developed based on the most influencing factors on the equipment resale price and evaluation of those factors was done using reliable methods. The technique used to develop the model is the ML that proved its accuracy in modeling. The accuracy of the model, which is 98%, enhances the value of the model.

]]>
Predicting construction equipment resale price: machine learning model10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0857Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-16© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedHossam Mohamed TomaAhmed H. AbdeenAhmed IbrahimEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-1610.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0857https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0857/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Multi-objective planning for time-cost trade-offs in multi-project parallel environmenthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0867/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestProject managers bear the responsibility of selecting and developing resource scheduling methods that align with project requirements and organizational circumstances. This study focuses on resource-constrained project scheduling in multi-project environments. The research simplifies the problem by adopting a single-project perspective using gain coefficients. It employs uncertainty theory and multi-objective programming to construct a model. The optimal solution is identified using Matlab, while LINGO determines satisfactory alternatives. By combining these methods and considering actual construction project situations, a compromise solution closely approximating the optimal one is derived. The study provides fresh insights into modeling and resolving resource-constrained project scheduling issues, supported by real-world examples that effectively illustrate its practical significance. The research highlights three main contributions: effective resource utilization, project prioritization and conflict management, and addressing uncertainty. It offers decision support for project managers to balance resource allocation, resolve conflicts, and adapt to changing project demands.Multi-objective planning for time-cost trade-offs in multi-project parallel environment
Jing An, Suicheng Li, Xiao Ping Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Project managers bear the responsibility of selecting and developing resource scheduling methods that align with project requirements and organizational circumstances. This study focuses on resource-constrained project scheduling in multi-project environments. The research simplifies the problem by adopting a single-project perspective using gain coefficients.

It employs uncertainty theory and multi-objective programming to construct a model. The optimal solution is identified using Matlab, while LINGO determines satisfactory alternatives. By combining these methods and considering actual construction project situations, a compromise solution closely approximating the optimal one is derived.

The study provides fresh insights into modeling and resolving resource-constrained project scheduling issues, supported by real-world examples that effectively illustrate its practical significance.

The research highlights three main contributions: effective resource utilization, project prioritization and conflict management, and addressing uncertainty. It offers decision support for project managers to balance resource allocation, resolve conflicts, and adapt to changing project demands.

]]>
Multi-objective planning for time-cost trade-offs in multi-project parallel environment10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0867Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedJing AnSuicheng LiXiao Ping WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0867https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0867/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Preliminary cost forecasting and optimization for the construction of steel pedestrian bridges in Egypthttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0870/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to create a methodology that integrates optimization techniques into preliminary cost estimates and predicts the impacts of design alternatives of steel pedestrian bridges (SPBs). The cost estimation process uses two main parameters, but the main goal is to create a cost estimation model. This study explores a flexible model design that uses computing capabilities for decision-making. Using cost optimization techniques, the model can select an optimal pedestrian bridge system based on multiple criteria that may change independently. This research focuses on four types of SPB systems prevalent in Egypt and worldwide. The study also suggests developing a computerized cost and weight optimization model that enables decision-makers to select the optimal system for SPBs in keeping up with the criteria established for that system. In this paper, the authors developed an optimization model for cost estimates of SPBs. The model considers two main parameters: weight and cost. The main contribution of this study based on a parametric study is to propose an approach that enables structural engineers and designers to select the optimum system for SPBs. The implications of this research from a practical perspective are that the study outlines a feasible approach to develop a computerized model that utilizes the capabilities of computing for quick cost optimization that enables decision-makers to select the optimal system for four common SPBs based on multiple criteria that may change independently and in concert with cost optimization during the preliminary design stage. The model can choose an optimal system for SPBs based on multiple criteria that may change independently and in concert with cost optimization. The resulting optimization model can forecast the optimum cost of the SPBs for different structural spans and road spans based on local unit costs of materials cost of steel structures, fabrication, erection and painting works. The authors developed a computerized model that uses spreadsheet software's capabilities for cost optimization, enabling decision-makers to select the optimal system for SPBs meeting the criteria established for such a system. Based on structural characteristics and material unit costs, this study shows that using the optimization model for estimating the total direct cost of SPB systems, the project cost can be accurately predicted based on the conceptual design status, and positive prediction outcomes are achieved.Preliminary cost forecasting and optimization for the construction of steel pedestrian bridges in Egypt
Niveen Badra, Hosam Hegazy, Mohamed Mousa, Jiansong Zhang, Sharifah Akmam Syed Zakaria, Said Aboul Haggag, Ibrahim Abdul-Rashied
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to create a methodology that integrates optimization techniques into preliminary cost estimates and predicts the impacts of design alternatives of steel pedestrian bridges (SPBs). The cost estimation process uses two main parameters, but the main goal is to create a cost estimation model.

This study explores a flexible model design that uses computing capabilities for decision-making. Using cost optimization techniques, the model can select an optimal pedestrian bridge system based on multiple criteria that may change independently. This research focuses on four types of SPB systems prevalent in Egypt and worldwide. The study also suggests developing a computerized cost and weight optimization model that enables decision-makers to select the optimal system for SPBs in keeping up with the criteria established for that system.

In this paper, the authors developed an optimization model for cost estimates of SPBs. The model considers two main parameters: weight and cost. The main contribution of this study based on a parametric study is to propose an approach that enables structural engineers and designers to select the optimum system for SPBs.

The implications of this research from a practical perspective are that the study outlines a feasible approach to develop a computerized model that utilizes the capabilities of computing for quick cost optimization that enables decision-makers to select the optimal system for four common SPBs based on multiple criteria that may change independently and in concert with cost optimization during the preliminary design stage.

The model can choose an optimal system for SPBs based on multiple criteria that may change independently and in concert with cost optimization. The resulting optimization model can forecast the optimum cost of the SPBs for different structural spans and road spans based on local unit costs of materials cost of steel structures, fabrication, erection and painting works.

The authors developed a computerized model that uses spreadsheet software's capabilities for cost optimization, enabling decision-makers to select the optimal system for SPBs meeting the criteria established for such a system. Based on structural characteristics and material unit costs, this study shows that using the optimization model for estimating the total direct cost of SPB systems, the project cost can be accurately predicted based on the conceptual design status, and positive prediction outcomes are achieved.

]]>
Preliminary cost forecasting and optimization for the construction of steel pedestrian bridges in Egypt10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0870Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNiveen BadraHosam HegazyMohamed MousaJiansong ZhangSharifah Akmam Syed ZakariaSaid Aboul HaggagIbrahim Abdul-RashiedEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1210.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0870https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-08-2023-0870/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining the slow acceptance of HR analytics in the Indian engineering and construction industry: a SEM-ANN-based approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0795/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the extensive benefits of human resource (HR) analytics, the intention to adopt such technology is still a matter of concern in the engineering and construction sectors. This study aims to examine the slow adoption of HR analytics among HR professionals in the engineering and construction sector. A cross-sectional online survey including 376 HR executives working in Indian-based engineering and construction firms was conducted. Hierarchal regression, structural equation modeling and artificial neural networks (ANN) were applied to evaluate the relative importance of HR analytics predictors. The results reveal that hedonic motivation (HM), data availability (DA) and performance expectancy (PE) influence the behavioral intention (BI) to use HR analytics, whereas effort expectancy (EE), quantitative self-efficacy (QSE), habit (HA) and social influence (SI) act as barriers to its adoption. Moreover, PE was the most influential predictor of BI. Based on the findings of this study, engineering and construction industry managers can formulate strategies for the implementation and promotion of HR analytics to enhance organizational performance. This study draws attention to evidence-based decision-making, emphasizing barriers to the adoption of HR analytics. This study also emphasizes the concept of DA and QSE to enhance adoption among HR professionals, specifically in the engineering and construction industry.Examining the slow acceptance of HR analytics in the Indian engineering and construction industry: a SEM-ANN-based approach
Meenal Arora, Anshika Prakash, Amit Mittal, Swati Singh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the extensive benefits of human resource (HR) analytics, the intention to adopt such technology is still a matter of concern in the engineering and construction sectors. This study aims to examine the slow adoption of HR analytics among HR professionals in the engineering and construction sector.

A cross-sectional online survey including 376 HR executives working in Indian-based engineering and construction firms was conducted. Hierarchal regression, structural equation modeling and artificial neural networks (ANN) were applied to evaluate the relative importance of HR analytics predictors.

The results reveal that hedonic motivation (HM), data availability (DA) and performance expectancy (PE) influence the behavioral intention (BI) to use HR analytics, whereas effort expectancy (EE), quantitative self-efficacy (QSE), habit (HA) and social influence (SI) act as barriers to its adoption. Moreover, PE was the most influential predictor of BI.

Based on the findings of this study, engineering and construction industry managers can formulate strategies for the implementation and promotion of HR analytics to enhance organizational performance.

This study draws attention to evidence-based decision-making, emphasizing barriers to the adoption of HR analytics. This study also emphasizes the concept of DA and QSE to enhance adoption among HR professionals, specifically in the engineering and construction industry.

]]>
Examining the slow acceptance of HR analytics in the Indian engineering and construction industry: a SEM-ANN-based approach10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0795Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-22© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedMeenal AroraAnshika PrakashAmit MittalSwati SinghEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2210.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0795https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0795/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Confirmatory analysis on factors influencing the material management effectiveness in construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0811/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction material management is an important process in supporting construction operations that affect project performance. Previous studies attempt to identify factors influencing material management in different stages such as procurement, transportation and utilization. However, they lack a model to explain the relationship between influential factors and the effectiveness of material management. Therefore, this study aims to validate the variables and key factors influencing the effectiveness of material management processes. A total of 42 variables were reviewed from literature in different stages of material management process. Survey questionnaires were used to collect data about participants' perceptions on these variables. The respondents were 200 project engineers and project managers from construction sites and offices in Vietnam. Then factor analysis techniques were undertaken to validate the structure of factor groups. Two methods of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were, respectively, performed to evaluate and verify the model's fit. Factors influencing the effectiveness of material management were grouped into nine main factors, which are procurement issues, site conditions, planning and handling on site, industrial environments, contractual issues, quality control, suppliers and manufacturers' issues, transportation in and out site and security on site. The paper has several implications for theory and methodology related to material management. It features influential factors in association with the material management effectiveness. Therefore, senior managers can more fully understand the errors in their works and propose timely solutions to limit the unwanted risks. This research contributes on theoretical development on factors influencing effectiveness of material management processes. The key findings on influential factors can be applied to measure the effectiveness of material management processes.Confirmatory analysis on factors influencing the material management effectiveness in construction projects
Bao Pham Van, Vachara Peansupap
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction material management is an important process in supporting construction operations that affect project performance. Previous studies attempt to identify factors influencing material management in different stages such as procurement, transportation and utilization. However, they lack a model to explain the relationship between influential factors and the effectiveness of material management. Therefore, this study aims to validate the variables and key factors influencing the effectiveness of material management processes.

A total of 42 variables were reviewed from literature in different stages of material management process. Survey questionnaires were used to collect data about participants' perceptions on these variables. The respondents were 200 project engineers and project managers from construction sites and offices in Vietnam. Then factor analysis techniques were undertaken to validate the structure of factor groups. Two methods of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were, respectively, performed to evaluate and verify the model's fit.

Factors influencing the effectiveness of material management were grouped into nine main factors, which are procurement issues, site conditions, planning and handling on site, industrial environments, contractual issues, quality control, suppliers and manufacturers' issues, transportation in and out site and security on site.

The paper has several implications for theory and methodology related to material management. It features influential factors in association with the material management effectiveness. Therefore, senior managers can more fully understand the errors in their works and propose timely solutions to limit the unwanted risks.

This research contributes on theoretical development on factors influencing effectiveness of material management processes. The key findings on influential factors can be applied to measure the effectiveness of material management processes.

]]>
Confirmatory analysis on factors influencing the material management effectiveness in construction projects10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0811Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedBao Pham VanVachara PeansupapEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1010.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0811https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2021-0811/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The supportability evaluation of cross-regional major infrastructure projects based on the combination weighting of the game theory–cloud modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0820/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to establish an evaluation method for cross-regional major infrastructure project (CRMIP) supportability. The focus is to identify evaluation indicators from a complexity perspective and develop an evaluation model using qualitative and quantitative methods. Case studies are carried out to verify the reliability of the evaluation model, thereby providing theoretical and practical guidance for CRMIP operations and maintenance (O&M). Guided by the idea of complexity management, the evaluation indicators of CRMIP supportability are determined through literature analysis, actual O&M experience and expert interviews. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, consisting of sequential relationship analysis, entropy weighting, game theory and cloud model, is developed to determine the indicator weights. Finally, the evaluation model is used to evaluate the supportability of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge (HZMB), which tests the rationality of the model and reveals its supportability level. The results demonstrate that CRMIPs' supportability is influenced by 6 guideline-level and 18 indicator-level indicators, and the priority of the influencing factors includes “organization,” “technology,” “system,” “human resources,” “material system,” and “funding.” As for specific indicators, “organizational objectives,” “organizational structure and synergy mechanism,” and “technical systems and procedures” are critical to CRMIPs' O&M supportability. The results also indicate that the supportability level of the HZMB falls between good and excellent. Under the guidance of complexity management thinking, this study proposes a supportability evaluation framework based on the combined weights of game theory and the cloud model. This study provides a valuable reference and scientific judgment for the health and safety of CRMIPs' O&M.The supportability evaluation of cross-regional major infrastructure projects based on the combination weighting of the game theory–cloud model
Minggong Zhang, Xiaolong Xue, Ting Luo, Mengmeng Li, Xiaoling Tang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to establish an evaluation method for cross-regional major infrastructure project (CRMIP) supportability. The focus is to identify evaluation indicators from a complexity perspective and develop an evaluation model using qualitative and quantitative methods. Case studies are carried out to verify the reliability of the evaluation model, thereby providing theoretical and practical guidance for CRMIP operations and maintenance (O&M).

Guided by the idea of complexity management, the evaluation indicators of CRMIP supportability are determined through literature analysis, actual O&M experience and expert interviews. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, consisting of sequential relationship analysis, entropy weighting, game theory and cloud model, is developed to determine the indicator weights. Finally, the evaluation model is used to evaluate the supportability of the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge (HZMB), which tests the rationality of the model and reveals its supportability level.

The results demonstrate that CRMIPs' supportability is influenced by 6 guideline-level and 18 indicator-level indicators, and the priority of the influencing factors includes “organization,” “technology,” “system,” “human resources,” “material system,” and “funding.” As for specific indicators, “organizational objectives,” “organizational structure and synergy mechanism,” and “technical systems and procedures” are critical to CRMIPs' O&M supportability. The results also indicate that the supportability level of the HZMB falls between good and excellent.

Under the guidance of complexity management thinking, this study proposes a supportability evaluation framework based on the combined weights of game theory and the cloud model. This study provides a valuable reference and scientific judgment for the health and safety of CRMIPs' O&M.

]]>
The supportability evaluation of cross-regional major infrastructure projects based on the combination weighting of the game theory–cloud model10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0820Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMinggong ZhangXiaolong XueTing LuoMengmeng LiXiaoling TangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2310.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0820https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0820/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Modeling antecedents of safety compliance of construction workers in Australia: a perspective of trait activation theoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0829/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction workers’ safety compliance is attracting considerable critical attention as it plays a decisive role in improving safety on construction sites. This study applied the concept of differentiating safety compliance into deep compliance (DC) and surface compliance (SC) and relied on trait activation theory to investigate the effects of situational awareness (SA) and emotional intelligence (EI) on safety compliance. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 239 construction workers in Australia, and these responses were statistically analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to validate the proposed model. Results revealed that both EI and SA positively impacted DC and negatively impacted SC. Moreover, SA partially mediated the link between EI and two types of safety compliance (DC and SC). The outcomes showed that construction workers’ ability in regulating their emotions could influence their perception of environmental cues and the effectiveness of safety compliance behavior. This study sheds light on investigating the antecedents of DC and SC from the perspective of trait activation theory. The findings also have practical implications, stating that construction site managers or safety professionals should consider providing training on construction workers’ EI and SA to enhance their willingness to expend conscious efforts in complying with safety rules and procedures, which can lead to improved safety outcomes.Modeling antecedents of safety compliance of construction workers in Australia: a perspective of trait activation theory
Diya Yan, Xianbo Zhao, Pushpitha Kalutara, Zhou Jiang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction workers’ safety compliance is attracting considerable critical attention as it plays a decisive role in improving safety on construction sites. This study applied the concept of differentiating safety compliance into deep compliance (DC) and surface compliance (SC) and relied on trait activation theory to investigate the effects of situational awareness (SA) and emotional intelligence (EI) on safety compliance.

Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 239 construction workers in Australia, and these responses were statistically analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to validate the proposed model.

Results revealed that both EI and SA positively impacted DC and negatively impacted SC. Moreover, SA partially mediated the link between EI and two types of safety compliance (DC and SC). The outcomes showed that construction workers’ ability in regulating their emotions could influence their perception of environmental cues and the effectiveness of safety compliance behavior.

This study sheds light on investigating the antecedents of DC and SC from the perspective of trait activation theory. The findings also have practical implications, stating that construction site managers or safety professionals should consider providing training on construction workers’ EI and SA to enhance their willingness to expend conscious efforts in complying with safety rules and procedures, which can lead to improved safety outcomes.

]]>
Modeling antecedents of safety compliance of construction workers in Australia: a perspective of trait activation theory10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0829Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDiya YanXianbo ZhaoPushpitha KalutaraZhou JiangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1210.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0829https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0829/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evolution of construction risk management research: historiography and keyword co-occurrence analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0853/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study collected the bibliographic data of 2034 journal articles published in 2000–2021 from Web of Science (WoS) core collection database and adopted two bibliometric analysis methods, namely historiography and keyword co-occurrence, to identify the evolution trend of construction risk management (CRM) research topics. CRM has been a key issue in construction management research, producing a big number of publications. This study aims to undertake a review of the global CRM research published from 2000 to 2021 and identify the evolution of the research topics relating to CRM. This study found that risk analysis methods have shifted from simply ranking risks in terms of their relative importance or significance toward examining the interrelationships among risks, and that the objects of CRM research have shifted from generic construction projects toward specified types of construction projects (e.g. small projects, underground construction projects, green buildings and prefabricated projects). In addition, researchers tend to pay more attention to an individual risk category (e.g. political risk, safety risk and social risk) and integrate CRM into cost, time, quality, safety and environment management functions with the increasing adoption of various information and communication technologies. This study focused on the journal articles in English in WoS core collection database only, thus excluding the publications in other languages, not indexed by WoS and conference proceedings. In addition, the historiography focused on the top documents in terms of document strength and thus ignored the role of the documents whose strengths were a little lower than the threshold. This review study is more inclusive than any prior reviews on CRM and overcomes the drawbacks of mere reliance on either bibliometric analysis results or subjective opinions. Revealing the evolution process of the CRM knowledge domain, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the CRM research and benefits industry practitioners and researchers.Evolution of construction risk management research: historiography and keyword co-occurrence analysis
Xianbo Zhao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study collected the bibliographic data of 2034 journal articles published in 2000–2021 from Web of Science (WoS) core collection database and adopted two bibliometric analysis methods, namely historiography and keyword co-occurrence, to identify the evolution trend of construction risk management (CRM) research topics.

CRM has been a key issue in construction management research, producing a big number of publications. This study aims to undertake a review of the global CRM research published from 2000 to 2021 and identify the evolution of the research topics relating to CRM.

This study found that risk analysis methods have shifted from simply ranking risks in terms of their relative importance or significance toward examining the interrelationships among risks, and that the objects of CRM research have shifted from generic construction projects toward specified types of construction projects (e.g. small projects, underground construction projects, green buildings and prefabricated projects). In addition, researchers tend to pay more attention to an individual risk category (e.g. political risk, safety risk and social risk) and integrate CRM into cost, time, quality, safety and environment management functions with the increasing adoption of various information and communication technologies.

This study focused on the journal articles in English in WoS core collection database only, thus excluding the publications in other languages, not indexed by WoS and conference proceedings. In addition, the historiography focused on the top documents in terms of document strength and thus ignored the role of the documents whose strengths were a little lower than the threshold.

This review study is more inclusive than any prior reviews on CRM and overcomes the drawbacks of mere reliance on either bibliometric analysis results or subjective opinions. Revealing the evolution process of the CRM knowledge domain, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the CRM research and benefits industry practitioners and researchers.

]]>
Evolution of construction risk management research: historiography and keyword co-occurrence analysis10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0853Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-11-24© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedXianbo ZhaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-11-2410.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0853https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0853/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
The influence of the psychological contract on the safety of performance of construction workers in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0854/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn the absence of previous work, this study investigates how the psychological contract (PC) influences the safety performance of construction workers in China. The literature is first consulted to obtain a set of PC and safety performance measures that fits the specific situation of construction workers, which is then moderated by five construction experts. A questionnaire survey of 206 workers from 4 different construction sites is followed by a descriptive statistical analysis of the nature of the PC and level of the safety performance of the respondents. Finally, a regression analysis is used to ascertain the level of influence of the PS, and an analysis is made of the influence of PC on safety performance. A set of PC and safety performance measures is identified that fits in the construction workers' specific situation. The PC of the respondents is found to be intact and well-performed, and their safety performance is maintained at a high level. Safety performance is highly influenced by the state of the PC, with the three dimensions of safety performance (safety result, safety compliance and safety participation) positively correlated with the three dimensions of the PC (normative, interpersonal and developmental). Suggestions are made to improve safety production management and safety performance by providing adequate material and economic conditions, helping the workers establish good interpersonal relationships and realize their personal values.The influence of the psychological contract on the safety of performance of construction workers in China
Hongyang Li, Yanlin Chen, Junwei Zheng, Yuan Fang, Yifan Yang, Martin Skitmore, Rosemarie Rusch, Tingting Jiang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In the absence of previous work, this study investigates how the psychological contract (PC) influences the safety performance of construction workers in China.

The literature is first consulted to obtain a set of PC and safety performance measures that fits the specific situation of construction workers, which is then moderated by five construction experts. A questionnaire survey of 206 workers from 4 different construction sites is followed by a descriptive statistical analysis of the nature of the PC and level of the safety performance of the respondents. Finally, a regression analysis is used to ascertain the level of influence of the PS, and an analysis is made of the influence of PC on safety performance.

A set of PC and safety performance measures is identified that fits in the construction workers' specific situation. The PC of the respondents is found to be intact and well-performed, and their safety performance is maintained at a high level. Safety performance is highly influenced by the state of the PC, with the three dimensions of safety performance (safety result, safety compliance and safety participation) positively correlated with the three dimensions of the PC (normative, interpersonal and developmental).

Suggestions are made to improve safety production management and safety performance by providing adequate material and economic conditions, helping the workers establish good interpersonal relationships and realize their personal values.

]]>
The influence of the psychological contract on the safety of performance of construction workers in China10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0854Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-19© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedHongyang LiYanlin ChenJunwei ZhengYuan FangYifan YangMartin SkitmoreRosemarie RuschTingting JiangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1910.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0854https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0854/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Job stress and burnout among construction professionals: the moderating role of online emotionshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0868/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe negative effects of job stress and burnout on construction professionals (CPs) at the construction site have been widely concern in the construction industry. The purpose of this study is committed to explore the impact of job stress on CPs on the construction site, especially in the context of the widespread use of social media to express their emotions. This study developed a job-related stress-burnout-health conditions-turnover intention (S-B-HT) framework to explore the direct and lagged effects of job stress, we also examined the moderating effects of online emotions, operationalized in terms of emotional intensity and expression pattern, on the relationship between job stress with job burnout under two evolution paths (i.e. health conditions or turnover intention). This study collected 271 samples through a survey questionnaire for empirical testing, and introduced structural equation models to validate the proposed conceptual model. The results show that job stress has a significant positive effect on job burnout, and job burnout maintains a positive relationship with health conditions (or turnover intention) under the interference mechanism. Simultaneously, the online emotions expressed in social media have a positive moderating effect in two stages of the evolution path. The findings of this study remind the project manager need to timely find and solve the job burnout characteristics of CPs due to excessive job stress, especially to prevent the accidental consequences caused by job burnout. On this basis, this study provides an important value of using social media to express emotions for the project team to alleviate the adverse of professionals under job stress.Job stress and burnout among construction professionals: the moderating role of online emotions
Zhijiang Wu, Yongxiang Wang, Mengyao Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The negative effects of job stress and burnout on construction professionals (CPs) at the construction site have been widely concern in the construction industry. The purpose of this study is committed to explore the impact of job stress on CPs on the construction site, especially in the context of the widespread use of social media to express their emotions.

This study developed a job-related stress-burnout-health conditions-turnover intention (S-B-HT) framework to explore the direct and lagged effects of job stress, we also examined the moderating effects of online emotions, operationalized in terms of emotional intensity and expression pattern, on the relationship between job stress with job burnout under two evolution paths (i.e. health conditions or turnover intention). This study collected 271 samples through a survey questionnaire for empirical testing, and introduced structural equation models to validate the proposed conceptual model.

The results show that job stress has a significant positive effect on job burnout, and job burnout maintains a positive relationship with health conditions (or turnover intention) under the interference mechanism. Simultaneously, the online emotions expressed in social media have a positive moderating effect in two stages of the evolution path.

The findings of this study remind the project manager need to timely find and solve the job burnout characteristics of CPs due to excessive job stress, especially to prevent the accidental consequences caused by job burnout.

On this basis, this study provides an important value of using social media to express emotions for the project team to alleviate the adverse of professionals under job stress.

]]>
Job stress and burnout among construction professionals: the moderating role of online emotions10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0868Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-02© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhijiang WuYongxiang WangMengyao LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0210.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0868https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0868/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Measuring sensitivity to change orders in construction projects using eigenvector centrality and radius of gyrationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0870/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper offers a measure of sensitivity to change orders in the later stage of the construction phase to characterize the distribution of project activities around the time when the project is scheduled to finish. This paper employs eigenvector centrality to identify the sensitivity of an activity to change orders based on the sensitivity of its neighboring activities. Next, a distance-based measure, called the radius of gyration, is adopted to describe the distribution of project activities around the time when the project is scheduled to finish. Finally, a sensitivity measure, which quantifies the dispersion of project activities from the project finish date, is developed. Two real-life construction projects are used to measure the sensitivity to late changes. The results conform to the intuition of sensitivity to late changes and confirm that the negative effects of change orders are amplified when project activities are scheduled to start closer to the finish date. This paper adds to the literature on change orders in construction projects by developing the first method for quantifying the sensitivity of projects to the issuance of late changes. The proposed method can provide valuable information to project owners and construction managers as they negotiate the pricing of change orders based on their time of occurrence.Measuring sensitivity to change orders in construction projects using eigenvector centrality and radius of gyration
Seyed Ashkan Zarghami
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper offers a measure of sensitivity to change orders in the later stage of the construction phase to characterize the distribution of project activities around the time when the project is scheduled to finish.

This paper employs eigenvector centrality to identify the sensitivity of an activity to change orders based on the sensitivity of its neighboring activities. Next, a distance-based measure, called the radius of gyration, is adopted to describe the distribution of project activities around the time when the project is scheduled to finish. Finally, a sensitivity measure, which quantifies the dispersion of project activities from the project finish date, is developed.

Two real-life construction projects are used to measure the sensitivity to late changes. The results conform to the intuition of sensitivity to late changes and confirm that the negative effects of change orders are amplified when project activities are scheduled to start closer to the finish date.

This paper adds to the literature on change orders in construction projects by developing the first method for quantifying the sensitivity of projects to the issuance of late changes. The proposed method can provide valuable information to project owners and construction managers as they negotiate the pricing of change orders based on their time of occurrence.

]]>
Measuring sensitivity to change orders in construction projects using eigenvector centrality and radius of gyration10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0870Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-10© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedSeyed Ashkan ZarghamiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1010.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0870https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0870/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Integrated scheduling optimization of production and transportation for precast component with delivery time windowhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0871/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestProduction and transportation of precast components, as two continuous service stages of a precast plant, play an important role in meeting customer needs and controlling costs. However, there is still a lack of production and transportation scheduling methods that comprehensively consider delivery timeliness and transportation economy. This article aims to study the integrated scheduling optimization problem of in-plant flowshop production and off-plant transportation under the consideration of practical constraints of customer order delivery time window, and seek an optimal scheduling method that balances delivery timeliness and transportation economy. In this study, an integrated scheduling optimization model of flowshop production and transportation for precast components with delivery time windows is established, which describes the relationship between production and transportation and handles transportation constraints under the premise of balancing delivery timeliness and transportation economy. Then a genetic algorithm is designed to solve this model. It realizes the integrated scheduling of production and transportation through double-layer chromosome coding. A program is designed to realize the solution process. Finally, the validity of the model is proved by the calculation of actual enterprise data. The optimized scheduling scheme can not only meet the on-time delivery, but also improve the truck loading rate and reduce the total cost, composed of early cost in plant, delivery penalty cost and transportation cost. In the model validation, the optimal scheduling scheme uses one less truck than the traditional EDD scheme (saving 20% of the transportation cost), and the total cost can be saved by 17.22%. This study clarifies the relationship between the production and transportation of precast components and establishes the integrated scheduling optimization model and its solution algorithm. Different from previous studies, the proposed optimization model can balance the timeliness and economy of production and transportation for precast components.Integrated scheduling optimization of production and transportation for precast component with delivery time window
Yiran Dan, Guiwen Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Production and transportation of precast components, as two continuous service stages of a precast plant, play an important role in meeting customer needs and controlling costs. However, there is still a lack of production and transportation scheduling methods that comprehensively consider delivery timeliness and transportation economy. This article aims to study the integrated scheduling optimization problem of in-plant flowshop production and off-plant transportation under the consideration of practical constraints of customer order delivery time window, and seek an optimal scheduling method that balances delivery timeliness and transportation economy.

In this study, an integrated scheduling optimization model of flowshop production and transportation for precast components with delivery time windows is established, which describes the relationship between production and transportation and handles transportation constraints under the premise of balancing delivery timeliness and transportation economy. Then a genetic algorithm is designed to solve this model. It realizes the integrated scheduling of production and transportation through double-layer chromosome coding. A program is designed to realize the solution process. Finally, the validity of the model is proved by the calculation of actual enterprise data.

The optimized scheduling scheme can not only meet the on-time delivery, but also improve the truck loading rate and reduce the total cost, composed of early cost in plant, delivery penalty cost and transportation cost. In the model validation, the optimal scheduling scheme uses one less truck than the traditional EDD scheme (saving 20% of the transportation cost), and the total cost can be saved by 17.22%.

This study clarifies the relationship between the production and transportation of precast components and establishes the integrated scheduling optimization model and its solution algorithm. Different from previous studies, the proposed optimization model can balance the timeliness and economy of production and transportation for precast components.

]]>
Integrated scheduling optimization of production and transportation for precast component with delivery time window10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0871Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYiran DanGuiwen LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2710.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0871https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0871/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How risk factors lead to the early termination of public–private partnership projects in China: a multi-case study based on social network analysis and interpretive-structure modelinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0876/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestEarly termination of public–private partnerships (PPPs) in China is caused by various risk factors, resulting in significant losses. This study aimed to clarify the key factors and identify the causal relationships among these factors. Social network analysis (SNA) was used to analyze 37 risk factors that were summarized from 97 early terminated PPP cases and to identify the relationships among these key risk factors. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was conducted to explore the causal relationships. Data were collected from case documents, questionnaires and interviews. A total of 17 key risk factors were identified and distributed in a hierarchical structure with six tiers. Among these key risk factors, the root causes affecting the early termination of PPP projects were government oversight in decision-making, local government transition, policy and law changes and force majeure. The direct cause was insufficient returns. Furthermore, local government and private sector defaults were essential mediating factors. Local government transition and the low willingness of the private sector were highlighted as potential key risks. The cases and experts were all from China, and outcomes in other countries or cultures may differ from those of this study. Therefore, further studies are required. This research provides knowledge regarding the key risk factors leading to the early termination of PPP projects and guidance on avoiding these factors and blocking the factors' transmission in the project lifecycle. This study contributes to the knowledge of risk management by emphasizing the importance of local government transition, the low willingness of the private sector and project cooperation and operation, whose significance is ignored in the existing literature. The proposed ISM clarifies the role of risk factors in causing early termination and explains their transmission patterns.How risk factors lead to the early termination of public–private partnership projects in China: a multi-case study based on social network analysis and interpretive-structure modeling
Yunfeng Liu, Xueqing Wang, Jingxiao Zhang, Sijia Guo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Early termination of public–private partnerships (PPPs) in China is caused by various risk factors, resulting in significant losses. This study aimed to clarify the key factors and identify the causal relationships among these factors.

Social network analysis (SNA) was used to analyze 37 risk factors that were summarized from 97 early terminated PPP cases and to identify the relationships among these key risk factors. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) was conducted to explore the causal relationships. Data were collected from case documents, questionnaires and interviews.

A total of 17 key risk factors were identified and distributed in a hierarchical structure with six tiers. Among these key risk factors, the root causes affecting the early termination of PPP projects were government oversight in decision-making, local government transition, policy and law changes and force majeure. The direct cause was insufficient returns. Furthermore, local government and private sector defaults were essential mediating factors. Local government transition and the low willingness of the private sector were highlighted as potential key risks.

The cases and experts were all from China, and outcomes in other countries or cultures may differ from those of this study. Therefore, further studies are required.

This research provides knowledge regarding the key risk factors leading to the early termination of PPP projects and guidance on avoiding these factors and blocking the factors' transmission in the project lifecycle.

This study contributes to the knowledge of risk management by emphasizing the importance of local government transition, the low willingness of the private sector and project cooperation and operation, whose significance is ignored in the existing literature. The proposed ISM clarifies the role of risk factors in causing early termination and explains their transmission patterns.

]]>
How risk factors lead to the early termination of public–private partnership projects in China: a multi-case study based on social network analysis and interpretive-structure modeling10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0876Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-25© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYunfeng LiuXueqing WangJingxiao ZhangSijia GuoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2510.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0876https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0876/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Multifactor uncertainty analysis of prefabricated building supply chain: qualitative comparative analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0878/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper constructs the uncertainty analysis model of prefabricated building supply chain risk. The model is designed to study the formation path of prefabricated building supply chain risk and is expected to be used by industry stakeholders for supply chain risk management. Based on the uncertainty circle model, construct a configuration analysis framework for supply chain risks in prefabricated buildings. The fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to study the configuration influence of five uncertain factors, including environment, plan-control, demand-supply, manufacturing and assembly-transportation, on the risk of the prefabricated building supply chain. There are three paths to promote the high-risk generation of the prefabricated building supply chain: assembly-transportation-oriented, plan-control-oriented and manufacturing-oriented. There is a specific equivalent substitution relationship among the five causal conditions. Under specific conditions, different combinations of conditions have the same effect on promoting supply chain high-risk generation through equivalent substitution. The multiple concurrent causal relationships of risk conditions in the assembly construction supply chain are studied under the grouping perspective, which helps to expand the research perspective of assembly construction supply chain risk and provides theoretical guidance for supply chain risk management of construction enterprises.Multifactor uncertainty analysis of prefabricated building supply chain: qualitative comparative analysis
Dan Wang, Jingyi Luo, Yongkun Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper constructs the uncertainty analysis model of prefabricated building supply chain risk. The model is designed to study the formation path of prefabricated building supply chain risk and is expected to be used by industry stakeholders for supply chain risk management.

Based on the uncertainty circle model, construct a configuration analysis framework for supply chain risks in prefabricated buildings. The fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) is used to study the configuration influence of five uncertain factors, including environment, plan-control, demand-supply, manufacturing and assembly-transportation, on the risk of the prefabricated building supply chain.

There are three paths to promote the high-risk generation of the prefabricated building supply chain: assembly-transportation-oriented, plan-control-oriented and manufacturing-oriented. There is a specific equivalent substitution relationship among the five causal conditions. Under specific conditions, different combinations of conditions have the same effect on promoting supply chain high-risk generation through equivalent substitution.

The multiple concurrent causal relationships of risk conditions in the assembly construction supply chain are studied under the grouping perspective, which helps to expand the research perspective of assembly construction supply chain risk and provides theoretical guidance for supply chain risk management of construction enterprises.

]]>
Multifactor uncertainty analysis of prefabricated building supply chain: qualitative comparative analysis10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0878Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-23© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedDan WangJingyi LuoYongkun WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2310.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0878https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0878/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
A novel approach for construction disputes causal inferences based on empirical data: a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteriahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0882/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper aims to devise a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria for causal inference of contractual disputes in construction projects. It is a genuine attempt in a systematic method from research design to execution for causal issues where only observational data is available. The authors located insufficient top management support as the putative pathogen of construction disputes based on a literature review, an interview and Delphi surveys. A questionnaire survey was then conducted to collect case-controlled data to ensure comparability, in which for each disputed project put in the experimental group, the authors sought for a dispute-free project of similar characteristics. The incidence rates of insufficient top management support in the experimental and control groups were then examined by Bradford Hill criteria as an alternative to the test of intervention effect. The association of insufficient top management support and construction disputes was tested to conform with the Bradford Hill criteria with case-controlled data where applicable and logical deduction where statistical tests were not applicable. With a clear, positive, reasonable and statistically significant association, while excluding methodological biases, confounding and chance, the authors reached a causal verdict of insufficient top management support causing contractual disputes. This paper supports the validity of applying a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria in investigating causal issues in project management, especially the verdict of causal inference based on empirical data. In addition, the located root cause of contractual disputes could inform project management personnel with reasoned strategies for dispute avoidance.A novel approach for construction disputes causal inferences based on empirical data: a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria
Peipei Wang, Peter Fenn, Kun Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper aims to devise a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria for causal inference of contractual disputes in construction projects. It is a genuine attempt in a systematic method from research design to execution for causal issues where only observational data is available.

The authors located insufficient top management support as the putative pathogen of construction disputes based on a literature review, an interview and Delphi surveys. A questionnaire survey was then conducted to collect case-controlled data to ensure comparability, in which for each disputed project put in the experimental group, the authors sought for a dispute-free project of similar characteristics. The incidence rates of insufficient top management support in the experimental and control groups were then examined by Bradford Hill criteria as an alternative to the test of intervention effect.

The association of insufficient top management support and construction disputes was tested to conform with the Bradford Hill criteria with case-controlled data where applicable and logical deduction where statistical tests were not applicable. With a clear, positive, reasonable and statistically significant association, while excluding methodological biases, confounding and chance, the authors reached a causal verdict of insufficient top management support causing contractual disputes.

This paper supports the validity of applying a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria in investigating causal issues in project management, especially the verdict of causal inference based on empirical data. In addition, the located root cause of contractual disputes could inform project management personnel with reasoned strategies for dispute avoidance.

]]>
A novel approach for construction disputes causal inferences based on empirical data: a case-controlled method combined with Bradford Hill criteria10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0882Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-05© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedPeipei WangPeter FennKun WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0510.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0882https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0882/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Shaping online and offline informal learning networks in off-site construction projects: a proximity perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0901/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInformal learning networks are critical to response to calls for practitioners to reskill and upskill in off-site construction projects. With the transition to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, social media-enabled online knowledge communities play an increasingly important role in acquiring and disseminating off-site construction knowledge. Proximity has been identified as a key factor in facilitating interactive learning, yet which type of proximity is effective in promoting online and offline knowledge exchange remains unclear. This study takes a relational view to explore the proximity-related antecedents of online and offline learning networks in off-site construction projects, while also examining the subtle differences in the networks' structural patterns. Five types of proximity (physical, organizational, social, cognitive and personal) between projects members are conceptualized in the theoretical model. Drawing on social foci theory and homophily theory, the research hypotheses are proposed. To test these hypotheses, empirical case studies were conducted on two off-site construction projects during the COVID-19 pandemic. Valid relational data provided by 99 and 145 project members were collected using semi-structured interviews and sociometric questionnaires. Subsequently, multivariate exponential random graph models were developed. The results show a discrepancy arise in the structural patterns between online and offline learning networks. Offline learning is found to be more strongly influenced by proximity factors than online learning. Specifically, physical, organizational and social proximity are found to be significant predictors of offline knowledge exchange. Cognitive proximity has a negative relationship with offline knowledge exchange but is positively related to online knowledge exchange. Regarding personal proximity, the study found that the homophily effect of hierarchical status merely emerges in offline learning networks. Online knowledge communities amplify the receiver effect of tenure. Furthermore, there appears to be a complementary relationship between online and offline learning networks. Proximity offers a novel relational perspective for understanding the formation of knowledge exchange connections. This study enriches the literature on informal learning within project teams by revealing how different types of proximity shape learning networks across different channels in off-site construction projects.Shaping online and offline informal learning networks in off-site construction projects: a proximity perspective
Kangning Liu, Bon-Gang Hwang, Jianyao Jia, Qingpeng Man, Shoujian Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Informal learning networks are critical to response to calls for practitioners to reskill and upskill in off-site construction projects. With the transition to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, social media-enabled online knowledge communities play an increasingly important role in acquiring and disseminating off-site construction knowledge. Proximity has been identified as a key factor in facilitating interactive learning, yet which type of proximity is effective in promoting online and offline knowledge exchange remains unclear. This study takes a relational view to explore the proximity-related antecedents of online and offline learning networks in off-site construction projects, while also examining the subtle differences in the networks' structural patterns.

Five types of proximity (physical, organizational, social, cognitive and personal) between projects members are conceptualized in the theoretical model. Drawing on social foci theory and homophily theory, the research hypotheses are proposed. To test these hypotheses, empirical case studies were conducted on two off-site construction projects during the COVID-19 pandemic. Valid relational data provided by 99 and 145 project members were collected using semi-structured interviews and sociometric questionnaires. Subsequently, multivariate exponential random graph models were developed.

The results show a discrepancy arise in the structural patterns between online and offline learning networks. Offline learning is found to be more strongly influenced by proximity factors than online learning. Specifically, physical, organizational and social proximity are found to be significant predictors of offline knowledge exchange. Cognitive proximity has a negative relationship with offline knowledge exchange but is positively related to online knowledge exchange. Regarding personal proximity, the study found that the homophily effect of hierarchical status merely emerges in offline learning networks. Online knowledge communities amplify the receiver effect of tenure. Furthermore, there appears to be a complementary relationship between online and offline learning networks.

Proximity offers a novel relational perspective for understanding the formation of knowledge exchange connections. This study enriches the literature on informal learning within project teams by revealing how different types of proximity shape learning networks across different channels in off-site construction projects.

]]>
Shaping online and offline informal learning networks in off-site construction projects: a proximity perspective10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0901Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKangning LiuBon-Gang HwangJianyao JiaQingpeng ManShoujian ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1410.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0901https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0901/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Boosting stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action in megaprojects: perspectives of mega water transfer projects in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0903/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMegaprojects have large impact on the environment and stakeholders should take collective action to ensure that these projects are developed in a socially responsible manner. Hitherto, it is not known whether group and subjective norms and social identity could compel stakeholders to take socially responsible collective actions in megaprojects. The aim of this study is to design and test a model to boost stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action in the context of mega water transfer projects in China. A quasi-experimental causal research design was adopted to establish cause–effect relationships among the dependent variable (we-intention) and independent variables (subjective norms, group norms, social identity and desire). This study adopts the belief–desire–intention model and social influence theory to empirically investigate how to boost the stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action. An online questionnaire survey was conducted and data was collected from 365 respondents who were involved in mega water transfer projects in China. The partial least squares structural equation modeling technique was employed to analyze the data. The results from partial least squares analyses indicate that the presence of subjective norms, group norms and social identity (collectively known as social influence process) could increase stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action. In addition, the desire to be socially responsible also boosts stakeholders' intention to take collective action. Desire partially mediates the relationship between social influence process and intention to take socially responsible collective action. This study adds to existing knowledge by discovering social influence process as an antecedent to taking socially responsible collective action in megaprojects. Strong group norms and subjective norms could propel stakeholders to be more socially responsible. The study also adds to knowledge by discovering that stakeholders' desire to fulfill social responsibility also leads them to take concrete actions. Implications and recommendations are provided on how to manipulate different types of social influence processes to facilitate stakeholders to adopt socially responsible collective action in the process of managing megaprojects.Boosting stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action in megaprojects: perspectives of mega water transfer projects in China
Wujuan Zhai, Florence Yean Yng Ling, Jiyong Ding, Zhuofu Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Megaprojects have large impact on the environment and stakeholders should take collective action to ensure that these projects are developed in a socially responsible manner. Hitherto, it is not known whether group and subjective norms and social identity could compel stakeholders to take socially responsible collective actions in megaprojects. The aim of this study is to design and test a model to boost stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action in the context of mega water transfer projects in China.

A quasi-experimental causal research design was adopted to establish cause–effect relationships among the dependent variable (we-intention) and independent variables (subjective norms, group norms, social identity and desire). This study adopts the belief–desire–intention model and social influence theory to empirically investigate how to boost the stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action. An online questionnaire survey was conducted and data was collected from 365 respondents who were involved in mega water transfer projects in China. The partial least squares structural equation modeling technique was employed to analyze the data.

The results from partial least squares analyses indicate that the presence of subjective norms, group norms and social identity (collectively known as social influence process) could increase stakeholders' intention to take socially responsible collective action. In addition, the desire to be socially responsible also boosts stakeholders' intention to take collective action. Desire partially mediates the relationship between social influence process and intention to take socially responsible collective action.

This study adds to existing knowledge by discovering social influence process as an antecedent to taking socially responsible collective action in megaprojects. Strong group norms and subjective norms could propel stakeholders to be more socially responsible. The study also adds to knowledge by discovering that stakeholders' desire to fulfill social responsibility also leads them to take concrete actions. Implications and recommendations are provided on how to manipulate different types of social influence processes to facilitate stakeholders to adopt socially responsible collective action in the process of managing megaprojects.

]]>
Boosting stakeholders' intention to participate in socially responsible collective action in megaprojects: perspectives of mega water transfer projects in China10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0903Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWujuan ZhaiFlorence Yean Yng LingJiyong DingZhuofu WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1010.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0903https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0903/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Research evolution and thematic breakthroughs in project leadership: a bibliometric analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0905/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe development of project managers and leadership has been highlighted as crucial for improving project success and performance, resulting in a rise of interest in project leadership research over the last two decades. While several qualitative reviews have been conducted, there have been limited quantitative and systematic reviews on project leadership. This study fills this gap by portraying the knowledge landscape and tracking the evolution of project leadership research from 1998 to 2022 through bibliometric approaches. Based on 816 records, including 793 articles extracted and selected from the Web of Science database and specific journals, and 23 articles selected from three non-SCI/SSCI indexed journals, the authors used CiteSpace and bibliometrix R-package to depict visualizations of the trajectory of co-cited references, the landscape of co-occurred keywords and emerging trends in project leadership via reference co-citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis and thematic mapping. The bibliometric analyses enabled the authors to understand the conceptual aspects of project leadership and its theoretical background. Three stages of the intellectual bases were identified and tracked: the infancy phase (1998–2007), the growth phase (2008–2014) and the new development phase (2015–2022). The results of keyword co-occurrence analysis indicated that the research focus evolved from investigating traits and competences to examining the effects of traditional leadership behaviors, and then considering context-specific leadership. The findings of thematic mapping and theoretical interpretation illustrate the potential directions of the competence comparison, new and appropriate leadership, and the interaction between leadership and context. This study advanced the field by providing a systematic review of project leadership, developing potential future directions for project leadership research and providing practical implications for career development and training.Research evolution and thematic breakthroughs in project leadership: a bibliometric analysis
Junwei Zheng, Yu Gu, Peikai Li, Lan Luo, Guangdong Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The development of project managers and leadership has been highlighted as crucial for improving project success and performance, resulting in a rise of interest in project leadership research over the last two decades. While several qualitative reviews have been conducted, there have been limited quantitative and systematic reviews on project leadership. This study fills this gap by portraying the knowledge landscape and tracking the evolution of project leadership research from 1998 to 2022 through bibliometric approaches.

Based on 816 records, including 793 articles extracted and selected from the Web of Science database and specific journals, and 23 articles selected from three non-SCI/SSCI indexed journals, the authors used CiteSpace and bibliometrix R-package to depict visualizations of the trajectory of co-cited references, the landscape of co-occurred keywords and emerging trends in project leadership via reference co-citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis and thematic mapping.

The bibliometric analyses enabled the authors to understand the conceptual aspects of project leadership and its theoretical background. Three stages of the intellectual bases were identified and tracked: the infancy phase (1998–2007), the growth phase (2008–2014) and the new development phase (2015–2022). The results of keyword co-occurrence analysis indicated that the research focus evolved from investigating traits and competences to examining the effects of traditional leadership behaviors, and then considering context-specific leadership. The findings of thematic mapping and theoretical interpretation illustrate the potential directions of the competence comparison, new and appropriate leadership, and the interaction between leadership and context.

This study advanced the field by providing a systematic review of project leadership, developing potential future directions for project leadership research and providing practical implications for career development and training.

]]>
Research evolution and thematic breakthroughs in project leadership: a bibliometric analysis10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0905Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJunwei ZhengYu GuPeikai LiLan LuoGuangdong WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-2710.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0905https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0905/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Examining a two-step working model of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behaviorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0906/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGiven a baffling contradiction that the availability of safety knowledge may not necessarily lead to workers' safety behavior, this study aims to develop an exploratory two-step working model of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior. In particular, this study highlights the importance of articulating tacit safety knowledge and improving workers' systematic problem solving (SPS) capacity in a favorable safety climate. This study uses 110 valid responses from Pakistan-based construction workers to test five hypotheses which embody the exploratory two-step working model of safety knowledge. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) is used to analyze the data. The results of this study support the two-step working mechanism of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior. Furthermore, results suggest that safety climate as a job resource facilitates converting construction workers' tacit safety knowledge into explicit safety knowledge (i.e. safety knowledge articulation) and then enabling them to spot non-conformities in safety management practices (i.e. SPS) and consequently to work safely (i.e. safety behavior). The study has both theoretical and practical significance. In theory, it extends organizational learning theory and job demands-resources (JD-R) theory in the construction safety research domain and elaborates on the mediating role of safety knowledge articulation and SPS for the relationship between safety climate and safety behavior. In practice, it highlights the importance of continuous articulation of tacit safety knowledge and accumulation and use of explicit safety knowledge in construction safety management practices.Examining a two-step working model of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior
Hassan Ashraf, Mir Kiannat Ejaz, Shoeb Ahmed Memon, Yuzhong Shen, Ahsen Maqsoom, Riza Yosia Sunindijo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Given a baffling contradiction that the availability of safety knowledge may not necessarily lead to workers' safety behavior, this study aims to develop an exploratory two-step working model of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior. In particular, this study highlights the importance of articulating tacit safety knowledge and improving workers' systematic problem solving (SPS) capacity in a favorable safety climate.

This study uses 110 valid responses from Pakistan-based construction workers to test five hypotheses which embody the exploratory two-step working model of safety knowledge. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) is used to analyze the data.

The results of this study support the two-step working mechanism of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior. Furthermore, results suggest that safety climate as a job resource facilitates converting construction workers' tacit safety knowledge into explicit safety knowledge (i.e. safety knowledge articulation) and then enabling them to spot non-conformities in safety management practices (i.e. SPS) and consequently to work safely (i.e. safety behavior).

The study has both theoretical and practical significance. In theory, it extends organizational learning theory and job demands-resources (JD-R) theory in the construction safety research domain and elaborates on the mediating role of safety knowledge articulation and SPS for the relationship between safety climate and safety behavior. In practice, it highlights the importance of continuous articulation of tacit safety knowledge and accumulation and use of explicit safety knowledge in construction safety management practices.

]]>
Examining a two-step working model of safety knowledge in translating safety climate into safety behavior10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0906Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHassan AshrafMir Kiannat EjazShoeb Ahmed MemonYuzhong ShenAhsen MaqsoomRiza Yosia SunindijoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2610.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0906https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0906/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Implementing circular economy principles in infrastructure procurement to support circular supply chainshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0908/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe aim of this paper is to study the procurement of infrastructure through the lens of circular economy (CE) principles to achieve contractual delivery methods which promote circular supply chains. This paper provides an analysis of the key concepts related to the research topic based on a review of recent academic literature. Moreover, based on the empirical and academic experience of the authors in the infrastructure industry, there are multiple actionable discussion points which are raised. However, the research for this paper was undertaken with a focus on literature rather than direct observations and empirical research, which may limit discussion to scholarly rather than practical applications. The paper finds that CE principles can be leveraged to capture additional economic benefit in the infrastructure industry. In addition, there are specific project delivery methods which may act as workable practices towards more circular supply chains. The value of this paper is in the CE-related suggestions the paper provides to procurement practitioners. This work also attempts to link contractual procurement with tangible outcomes across the project lifecycle, including operation and end of life (EOL) of the infrastructure asset.Implementing circular economy principles in infrastructure procurement to support circular supply chains
Jurij Karlovsek, Cristyn Meath, Lawrence Miles-Mwangangi, Charles MacDonald, Alfredo Brockmann
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The aim of this paper is to study the procurement of infrastructure through the lens of circular economy (CE) principles to achieve contractual delivery methods which promote circular supply chains.

This paper provides an analysis of the key concepts related to the research topic based on a review of recent academic literature. Moreover, based on the empirical and academic experience of the authors in the infrastructure industry, there are multiple actionable discussion points which are raised. However, the research for this paper was undertaken with a focus on literature rather than direct observations and empirical research, which may limit discussion to scholarly rather than practical applications.

The paper finds that CE principles can be leveraged to capture additional economic benefit in the infrastructure industry. In addition, there are specific project delivery methods which may act as workable practices towards more circular supply chains.

The value of this paper is in the CE-related suggestions the paper provides to procurement practitioners. This work also attempts to link contractual procurement with tangible outcomes across the project lifecycle, including operation and end of life (EOL) of the infrastructure asset.

]]>
Implementing circular economy principles in infrastructure procurement to support circular supply chains10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0908Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-08© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJurij KarlovsekCristyn MeathLawrence Miles-MwangangiCharles MacDonaldAlfredo BrockmannEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0810.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0908https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0908/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Coopetition configuration and performance of international joint ventures for high-speed rail projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0909/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMembers in the international joint ventures (IJVs) for high-speed rail (HSR) projects usually engage in coopetition interactions to create common benefits (CB) and simultaneously safeguard private benefits (PB). Previous studies of coopetition and performance using variance-based methods usually ignore the combinational influence of diverse coopetition constructs on performance, which can be effectively compensated by adopting a configuration perspective. Therefore, this research aims to ascertain various combinations of three coopetition constructs (coopetition relationship, coopetition capability and coopetition strategy) that lead to high IJVs’ performance through a configuration approach. First, the research framework of coopetition configuration was established, and the key constructs were operationalized, which were validated by expert interviews. Then the information on 12 HSR IJVs was collected and quantified through nine rounds of interviews and a questionnaire survey. Later, the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was applied to explore what coopetition configurations benefit the CB or PB achievement. Configuration results indicate that six coopetition configurations lead to CB outcome and seven configurations lead to PB outcome. Based on the results, coopetition contexts are divided into four categories: firm-based coopetition, project-based coopetition, firm-project-based coopetition and none-based coopetition. Then, a selection scheme for coopetition strategies in various contexts has been developed. The results also show that the core conditions mostly appear in the coopetition relationships and coopetition strategies dimensions, and the optimal coopetition strategies vary in different contexts. This study enhances the theoretical understanding of coopetition in HSR IJVs and assists relative HSR industrialists, as well as the mega infrastructure project managers, in IJVs’ implementation. The configuration perspective of this paper also contributes to a systemic and holistic view of coopetition in HSR IJVs.Coopetition configuration and performance of international joint ventures for high-speed rail projects
Yanliang Niu, Huimin Li, Xiaowei Luo, Xiaopeng Deng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Members in the international joint ventures (IJVs) for high-speed rail (HSR) projects usually engage in coopetition interactions to create common benefits (CB) and simultaneously safeguard private benefits (PB). Previous studies of coopetition and performance using variance-based methods usually ignore the combinational influence of diverse coopetition constructs on performance, which can be effectively compensated by adopting a configuration perspective. Therefore, this research aims to ascertain various combinations of three coopetition constructs (coopetition relationship, coopetition capability and coopetition strategy) that lead to high IJVs’ performance through a configuration approach.

First, the research framework of coopetition configuration was established, and the key constructs were operationalized, which were validated by expert interviews. Then the information on 12 HSR IJVs was collected and quantified through nine rounds of interviews and a questionnaire survey. Later, the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was applied to explore what coopetition configurations benefit the CB or PB achievement.

Configuration results indicate that six coopetition configurations lead to CB outcome and seven configurations lead to PB outcome. Based on the results, coopetition contexts are divided into four categories: firm-based coopetition, project-based coopetition, firm-project-based coopetition and none-based coopetition. Then, a selection scheme for coopetition strategies in various contexts has been developed. The results also show that the core conditions mostly appear in the coopetition relationships and coopetition strategies dimensions, and the optimal coopetition strategies vary in different contexts.

This study enhances the theoretical understanding of coopetition in HSR IJVs and assists relative HSR industrialists, as well as the mega infrastructure project managers, in IJVs’ implementation. The configuration perspective of this paper also contributes to a systemic and holistic view of coopetition in HSR IJVs.

]]>
Coopetition configuration and performance of international joint ventures for high-speed rail projects10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0909Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYanliang NiuHuimin LiXiaowei LuoXiaopeng DengEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1610.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0909https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0909/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evaluation of field labor and management productivity in the USA construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0918/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe health of an economy is heavily dependent on the productivity of the economy's major industries including construction. While most macro-measures of productivity in the USA construction industry indicate a decline, corresponding studies at the individual task level indicate an increase in productivity. Therefore, this paper aims to identify areas where productivity challenges exist and thus provide recommendations for improvement in the construction industry. A model that relates the way construction projects are executed with the sources of data that inform productivity analyses is developed and presented. This effort/value-flow model informs the data analysis that is performed to determine productivity trends for management and field labor. Further analysis for field labor productivity using field data and management productivity was separately conducted. Management productivity was particularly difficult to gauge, resulting in the use of surrogate measures. It was observed that while both field labor and management productivities at the industry level have been decreasing, the decrease in management productivity was five times that of field labor productivity. A similar trend was observed for management productivity at the project level. The primary contribution of this paper to the body of knowledge and industry is the introduction of a holistic analysis of USA construction productivity. Recommendations to improve management productivity include the use of technology, especially project management software.Evaluation of field labor and management productivity in the USA construction industry
Qais K. Jahanger, David Trejo, Joseph Louis
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The health of an economy is heavily dependent on the productivity of the economy's major industries including construction. While most macro-measures of productivity in the USA construction industry indicate a decline, corresponding studies at the individual task level indicate an increase in productivity. Therefore, this paper aims to identify areas where productivity challenges exist and thus provide recommendations for improvement in the construction industry.

A model that relates the way construction projects are executed with the sources of data that inform productivity analyses is developed and presented. This effort/value-flow model informs the data analysis that is performed to determine productivity trends for management and field labor. Further analysis for field labor productivity using field data and management productivity was separately conducted. Management productivity was particularly difficult to gauge, resulting in the use of surrogate measures.

It was observed that while both field labor and management productivities at the industry level have been decreasing, the decrease in management productivity was five times that of field labor productivity. A similar trend was observed for management productivity at the project level.

The primary contribution of this paper to the body of knowledge and industry is the introduction of a holistic analysis of USA construction productivity. Recommendations to improve management productivity include the use of technology, especially project management software.

]]>
Evaluation of field labor and management productivity in the USA construction industry10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0918Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedQais K. JahangerDavid TrejoJoseph LouisEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2010.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0918https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2022-0918/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Construction hazard-recognition training for generation Z students: a comparison study based on eye-movement datahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0882/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSafety training can effectively facilitate workers’ safety awareness and prevent injuries and fatalities on construction sites. Traditional training methods are time-consuming, low participation, and less interaction, which is not suitable for students who are born in Generation Z (Gen Z) and expect to be positively engaged in the learning process. With the characteristic of immersive, interaction, and imagination, virtual reality (VR) has become a promising training method. The purpose of this study is to explore Gen Z students’ learning differences under VR and traditional conditions and determine whether VR technology is more suitable for Gen Z students. This paper designed a comparison experiment that includes three training conditions: VR-based, classroom lecturing, and on-site practice. 32 sophomore students were divided into four groups and received different training methods. The eye movement data and hazard-identification index (HII) scores from four groups were collected to measure their hazard-identification ability. The differences between the participants before and after the test were tested by paired sample t-test, and the differences between the groups after the test were analyzed by one-way Welch’s analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. The statistical findings showed that participants under VR technology condition spent less time finding and arriving at the Areas of Interest (AOIs). Both the eye movement data and HII scores indicated that VR-based safety training is an alternative approach for Gen Z students to traditional safety training methods. These findings contribute to the theoretical implications by proving the applicability of VR technology to Gen Z students and empirical implications by guiding colleges and universities to design attractive safety training lessons.Construction hazard-recognition training for generation Z students: a comparison study based on eye-movement data
Ding Liu, Chenglin Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Safety training can effectively facilitate workers’ safety awareness and prevent injuries and fatalities on construction sites. Traditional training methods are time-consuming, low participation, and less interaction, which is not suitable for students who are born in Generation Z (Gen Z) and expect to be positively engaged in the learning process. With the characteristic of immersive, interaction, and imagination, virtual reality (VR) has become a promising training method. The purpose of this study is to explore Gen Z students’ learning differences under VR and traditional conditions and determine whether VR technology is more suitable for Gen Z students.

This paper designed a comparison experiment that includes three training conditions: VR-based, classroom lecturing, and on-site practice. 32 sophomore students were divided into four groups and received different training methods. The eye movement data and hazard-identification index (HII) scores from four groups were collected to measure their hazard-identification ability. The differences between the participants before and after the test were tested by paired sample t-test, and the differences between the groups after the test were analyzed by one-way Welch’s analysis of variance (ANOVA) test.

The statistical findings showed that participants under VR technology condition spent less time finding and arriving at the Areas of Interest (AOIs). Both the eye movement data and HII scores indicated that VR-based safety training is an alternative approach for Gen Z students to traditional safety training methods.

These findings contribute to the theoretical implications by proving the applicability of VR technology to Gen Z students and empirical implications by guiding colleges and universities to design attractive safety training lessons.

]]>
Construction hazard-recognition training for generation Z students: a comparison study based on eye-movement data10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0882Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-18© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedDing LiuChenglin LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1810.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0882https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0882/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Interaction mechanisms of interface management risks in complex systems of high-speed rail construction projects: an association rule mining-based modeling frameworkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0893/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to develop an interface management risk interaction modeling and analysis methodology applicable to complex systems in high-speed rail construction projects, reveal the interaction mechanism of interface management risk and provide theoretical support for project managers to develop appropriate interface management risk response strategies. This paper introduces the association rule mining technique to improve the complex network modeling method. Taking China as an example, based on the stakeholder perspective, the risk factors and significant accident types of interface management of high-speed rail construction projects are systematically identified, and a database is established. Then, the Apriori algorithm is used to mine and analyze the strong association rules among the factors in the database, construct the complex network, and analyze its topological characteristics to reveal the interaction mechanism of the interface management risk of high-speed rail construction projects. The results show that the network is both scale-free and small-world, implying that construction accidents are not random events but rather the result of strong interactions between numerous interface management risks. Contractors, technical interfaces, mechanical equipment, and environmental factors are the primary direct causal factors of accidents, while owners and designers are essential indirect causal factors. The global importance of stakeholders such as owners, designers, and supervisors rises significantly after considering the indirect correlations between factors. This theoretically explains the need to consider the interactions between interface management risks. The interaction mechanism between interface management risks is unclear, which is an essential factor influencing the decision of risk response measures. This study proposes a new methodology for analyzing interface management risk response strategies that incorporate quantitative analysis methods and considers the interaction of interface management risks.Interaction mechanisms of interface management risks in complex systems of high-speed rail construction projects: an association rule mining-based modeling framework
Yuanwen Han, Jiang Shen, Xuwei Zhu, Bang An, Xueying Bao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to develop an interface management risk interaction modeling and analysis methodology applicable to complex systems in high-speed rail construction projects, reveal the interaction mechanism of interface management risk and provide theoretical support for project managers to develop appropriate interface management risk response strategies.

This paper introduces the association rule mining technique to improve the complex network modeling method. Taking China as an example, based on the stakeholder perspective, the risk factors and significant accident types of interface management of high-speed rail construction projects are systematically identified, and a database is established. Then, the Apriori algorithm is used to mine and analyze the strong association rules among the factors in the database, construct the complex network, and analyze its topological characteristics to reveal the interaction mechanism of the interface management risk of high-speed rail construction projects.

The results show that the network is both scale-free and small-world, implying that construction accidents are not random events but rather the result of strong interactions between numerous interface management risks. Contractors, technical interfaces, mechanical equipment, and environmental factors are the primary direct causal factors of accidents, while owners and designers are essential indirect causal factors. The global importance of stakeholders such as owners, designers, and supervisors rises significantly after considering the indirect correlations between factors. This theoretically explains the need to consider the interactions between interface management risks.

The interaction mechanism between interface management risks is unclear, which is an essential factor influencing the decision of risk response measures. This study proposes a new methodology for analyzing interface management risk response strategies that incorporate quantitative analysis methods and considers the interaction of interface management risks.

]]>
Interaction mechanisms of interface management risks in complex systems of high-speed rail construction projects: an association rule mining-based modeling framework10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0893Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedYuanwen HanJiang ShenXuwei ZhuBang AnXueying BaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0893https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0893/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Prosperity or futility? Effects of micro-regeneration on neighborhood commercial vitalityhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0922/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMicro-regeneration can effectively enhance a neighborhood’s commercial vitality and serve as a viable approach to boost economic benefits. However, the small scale of micro-regeneration efforts and the fragmented nature of information currently limit the availability of strong empirical evidence demonstrating its impact on neighborhood commercial vitality. The aim of the study was to examine the link between micro-regeneration and neighborhood commercial vitality, focusing on the average, time-lag, spatial spillover, and spatial heterogeneity effects. Using the panel data set of 1,755 neighborhoods in Chongqing from 2016 to 2021 as the research sample, the difference-in-differences (DID) method was employed in this study to explore the impact micro-regeneration has on neighborhood commercial vitality. The results illustrate that: (1) micro-regeneration can promote neighborhood commercial vitality in terms of the number and types of local consumption amenities by 27.76 and 5.89%, respectively, with no time-lag effect; (2) the positive spillovers can exist within the range of 5,000 meters–5,500 meters of regenerated neighborhoods; and (3) the effect of micro-regeneration on neighborhood commercial vitality can be greater in peripheral areas than in core areas of the city. The findings fill the knowledge gap on the relationship between micro-regeneration and neighborhood commercial vitality. Additionally, the results on the time-lag effect, spatial spillover effects, and spatial heterogeneity provide practical implications that can support the government and private sector in developing temporal and spatial arrangements for micro-regeneration projects.Prosperity or futility? Effects of micro-regeneration on neighborhood commercial vitality
Guiwen Liu, Yue Yang, Kaijian Li, Asheem Shrestha, Taozhi Zhuang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Micro-regeneration can effectively enhance a neighborhood’s commercial vitality and serve as a viable approach to boost economic benefits. However, the small scale of micro-regeneration efforts and the fragmented nature of information currently limit the availability of strong empirical evidence demonstrating its impact on neighborhood commercial vitality. The aim of the study was to examine the link between micro-regeneration and neighborhood commercial vitality, focusing on the average, time-lag, spatial spillover, and spatial heterogeneity effects.

Using the panel data set of 1,755 neighborhoods in Chongqing from 2016 to 2021 as the research sample, the difference-in-differences (DID) method was employed in this study to explore the impact micro-regeneration has on neighborhood commercial vitality.

The results illustrate that: (1) micro-regeneration can promote neighborhood commercial vitality in terms of the number and types of local consumption amenities by 27.76 and 5.89%, respectively, with no time-lag effect; (2) the positive spillovers can exist within the range of 5,000 meters–5,500 meters of regenerated neighborhoods; and (3) the effect of micro-regeneration on neighborhood commercial vitality can be greater in peripheral areas than in core areas of the city.

The findings fill the knowledge gap on the relationship between micro-regeneration and neighborhood commercial vitality. Additionally, the results on the time-lag effect, spatial spillover effects, and spatial heterogeneity provide practical implications that can support the government and private sector in developing temporal and spatial arrangements for micro-regeneration projects.

]]>
Prosperity or futility? Effects of micro-regeneration on neighborhood commercial vitality10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0922Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-21© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedGuiwen LiuYue YangKaijian LiAsheem ShresthaTaozhi ZhuangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2110.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0922https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0922/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Enhancing fire safety with Improved Risk Index and BIM in building evacuationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0923/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to conduct a comprehensive study on building, fire and evacuation, so as to effectively improve the efficiency of building fire evacuation and the management level of fire evacuation site. Make up for the difficulties of BIM technology in effectively connecting building information and fire data. First, this paper establishes a fire model and an evacuation model based on BIM information. Then, the safety index (SI) is introduced as a comprehensive index, and the IRI is established by integrating the SI function to evaluate the safety of evacuation routes. Based on these two indices, the IRI-based fire evacuation model is established. This study offers an Improved Risk Index (IRI)-based fire evacuation model, which may achieve effective evacuation in fire scenes. And the model is verified by taking the fire evacuation of a shopping center building as an example. This paper proposes a fire evacuation principle based on IRI, so that the relevant personnel can comprehensively consider the fire factors and evacuation factors to achieve the optimization of building design, thereby improving the fire safety of buildings.Enhancing fire safety with Improved Risk Index and BIM in building evacuation
Jingqi Zhang, Shaohua Jiang, Xiaomin Qi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to conduct a comprehensive study on building, fire and evacuation, so as to effectively improve the efficiency of building fire evacuation and the management level of fire evacuation site. Make up for the difficulties of BIM technology in effectively connecting building information and fire data.

First, this paper establishes a fire model and an evacuation model based on BIM information. Then, the safety index (SI) is introduced as a comprehensive index, and the IRI is established by integrating the SI function to evaluate the safety of evacuation routes. Based on these two indices, the IRI-based fire evacuation model is established.

This study offers an Improved Risk Index (IRI)-based fire evacuation model, which may achieve effective evacuation in fire scenes. And the model is verified by taking the fire evacuation of a shopping center building as an example.

This paper proposes a fire evacuation principle based on IRI, so that the relevant personnel can comprehensively consider the fire factors and evacuation factors to achieve the optimization of building design, thereby improving the fire safety of buildings.

]]>
Enhancing fire safety with Improved Risk Index and BIM in building evacuation10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0923Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-12© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedJingqi ZhangShaohua JiangXiaomin QiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-1210.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0923https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0923/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
How job satisfaction affects professionalization behavior of new-generation construction workers: a model based on theory of planned behaviorhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0931/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to explore the influence mechanism of new-generation construction workers (NGCWs)’ job satisfaction on the professionalization behavior in China, through theory of planned behavior (TPB), and find the key path to promote the professionalization behavior of China’s construction workers. A theoretical model of influence mechanism was established through literature research and theoretical deduction based on TPB and structural equation model. The scale of variables was developed, and an empirical study was employed with a sample of 823 NGCWs in China. The results indicate that job satisfaction can positively affect NGCWs' professionalization behavior. Subjective norm, attitude and perceived behavior control play mediating roles in the influence process. Job satisfaction is more likely to act on professionalization behavior through subjective norm and behavioral intention. Research results sorely suggest a short-term law about the influence mechanism of NGCWs' job satisfaction on professionalization behavior through a questionnaire study from China’s construction industry. Future research ought to continue to use a longitudinal study to examine it over a considerable amount of time. The results also need to be verified using data from young construction workers in other nations. This study provides a theoretical basis and feasible management reference for government and construction enterprises in China to promote NGCWs' professionalization behavior from the perspective of job satisfaction. Furthermore, the promotion of NGCWs' job satisfaction and professionalization behavior can do good to building industrialization, sustainable development and high-quality transformation of labor force in the construction industry. This paper demonstrates the positive influence of job satisfaction on professionalization behavior of NGCWs and finds the most effective affecting path. It fills the research gap about the influence mechanism of job satisfaction on young construction workers' professionalization behavior and enriches the theoretical system of planned behavior of construction workers.How job satisfaction affects professionalization behavior of new-generation construction workers: a model based on theory of planned behavior
Weishu Zhao, Peng Peng, Peng Peng, Hao Liu, Shiliu Wang, Wei Liu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to explore the influence mechanism of new-generation construction workers (NGCWs)’ job satisfaction on the professionalization behavior in China, through theory of planned behavior (TPB), and find the key path to promote the professionalization behavior of China’s construction workers.

A theoretical model of influence mechanism was established through literature research and theoretical deduction based on TPB and structural equation model. The scale of variables was developed, and an empirical study was employed with a sample of 823 NGCWs in China.

The results indicate that job satisfaction can positively affect NGCWs' professionalization behavior. Subjective norm, attitude and perceived behavior control play mediating roles in the influence process. Job satisfaction is more likely to act on professionalization behavior through subjective norm and behavioral intention.

Research results sorely suggest a short-term law about the influence mechanism of NGCWs' job satisfaction on professionalization behavior through a questionnaire study from China’s construction industry. Future research ought to continue to use a longitudinal study to examine it over a considerable amount of time. The results also need to be verified using data from young construction workers in other nations.

This study provides a theoretical basis and feasible management reference for government and construction enterprises in China to promote NGCWs' professionalization behavior from the perspective of job satisfaction. Furthermore, the promotion of NGCWs' job satisfaction and professionalization behavior can do good to building industrialization, sustainable development and high-quality transformation of labor force in the construction industry.

This paper demonstrates the positive influence of job satisfaction on professionalization behavior of NGCWs and finds the most effective affecting path. It fills the research gap about the influence mechanism of job satisfaction on young construction workers' professionalization behavior and enriches the theoretical system of planned behavior of construction workers.

]]>
How job satisfaction affects professionalization behavior of new-generation construction workers: a model based on theory of planned behavior10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0931Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-09© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWeishu ZhaoPeng PengPeng PengHao LiuShiliu WangWei LiuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-0910.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0931https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0931/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
An eye-tracking-based approach to evaluate the usability of government portal websites in pilot smart citieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0932/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe study aims to pioneer an innovative approach for the evaluation of government portal websites (GPWs) by introducing an eye-tracking-based method. The research meticulously pinpoints and analyses the distinct usability issues and challenges that users encounter while navigating and interacting with GPWs. This study devises an eye-tracking-based GPW usability evaluation approach, which focuses on the major functions (i.e. government information disclosure, government services and interactive responses) of GPWs. An Entropy Weighted Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (EW-TOPSIS) method is employed to process eye-tracking indicator results for deriving GPW usability results. The proposed approach is demonstrated to assess the usability of 12 GPWs in pilot smart cities in China, and it is found that most GPWs have lower-than-average usability. GPWs with low usability require more cognitive load that exhibit increased fixation and saccade. The comparisons among the GPW usability results from (1) the eye-tracking experiment, (2) questionnaire surveys and (3) the ready-made performance evaluation report validate the effectiveness of eye-tracking-based GPW usability evaluation. The work contributes to shifting the GPW usability evaluation approach from a subjective judgment paradigm to an objective paradigm, as well as provides implications for enhancing GPW usability, including improving search function, reducing website complexity and prioritizing user needs.An eye-tracking-based approach to evaluate the usability of government portal websites in pilot smart cities
Dezhi Li, Huan Zhou, Shenghua Zhou, Guanying Huang, Xiaoming Ma, Yongheng Zhao, Wentao Wang, S. Thomas Ng
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The study aims to pioneer an innovative approach for the evaluation of government portal websites (GPWs) by introducing an eye-tracking-based method. The research meticulously pinpoints and analyses the distinct usability issues and challenges that users encounter while navigating and interacting with GPWs.

This study devises an eye-tracking-based GPW usability evaluation approach, which focuses on the major functions (i.e. government information disclosure, government services and interactive responses) of GPWs. An Entropy Weighted Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (EW-TOPSIS) method is employed to process eye-tracking indicator results for deriving GPW usability results.

The proposed approach is demonstrated to assess the usability of 12 GPWs in pilot smart cities in China, and it is found that most GPWs have lower-than-average usability. GPWs with low usability require more cognitive load that exhibit increased fixation and saccade. The comparisons among the GPW usability results from (1) the eye-tracking experiment, (2) questionnaire surveys and (3) the ready-made performance evaluation report validate the effectiveness of eye-tracking-based GPW usability evaluation.

The work contributes to shifting the GPW usability evaluation approach from a subjective judgment paradigm to an objective paradigm, as well as provides implications for enhancing GPW usability, including improving search function, reducing website complexity and prioritizing user needs.

]]>
An eye-tracking-based approach to evaluate the usability of government portal websites in pilot smart cities10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0932Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-22© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDezhi LiHuan ZhouShenghua ZhouGuanying HuangXiaoming MaYongheng ZhaoWentao WangS. Thomas NgEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2210.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0932https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0932/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Conceptualization and measurement of owner BIM capabilities: from a project owner organization perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0934/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBuilding Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities have been studied at the individual, project, organizational, and even industry levels to ensure the realization of BIM value in the architectural, engineering, construction, and operation industry. However, limited research has focused on a project owner organization perspective to investigate owner BIM capabilities that are required to ensure effective project management and delivery. This present study aims to propose an indicator framework to evaluate owner BIM capabilities at the organizational level. Leveraging the existing literature on BIM capabilities and synthesizing insights from the resource-based view and information technology capabilities research, this study conceptualizes the BIM capabilities of project owner organizations and offers a framework of indicators for measurement. Semi-structured interviews with BIM experts and a questionnaire survey were conducted to identify key indicators affecting owner BIM capabilities. A six-dimensional structural equation model with 29 indicators was then established. The findings highlight the multidimensionality of owner BIM capabilities and show that process capabilities play a crucial role in enhancing owner BIM capabilities, while technical capabilities are considered as the least important aspect. The study sheds light on the key role of project owner organizations in ensuring BIM value and suggests that project owners focus more on the organizational processes of introducing BIM in managing projects. This study reconceptualizes owner BIM capabilities drawing on the idea of resource-based view and information technology capabilities and highlights the important dimensions and indicators of owner BIM capabilities at the organizational level.Conceptualization and measurement of owner BIM capabilities: from a project owner organization perspective
Pengcheng Pan, Yu Wang, Yumiao Yang, Sujuan Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities have been studied at the individual, project, organizational, and even industry levels to ensure the realization of BIM value in the architectural, engineering, construction, and operation industry. However, limited research has focused on a project owner organization perspective to investigate owner BIM capabilities that are required to ensure effective project management and delivery. This present study aims to propose an indicator framework to evaluate owner BIM capabilities at the organizational level.

Leveraging the existing literature on BIM capabilities and synthesizing insights from the resource-based view and information technology capabilities research, this study conceptualizes the BIM capabilities of project owner organizations and offers a framework of indicators for measurement. Semi-structured interviews with BIM experts and a questionnaire survey were conducted to identify key indicators affecting owner BIM capabilities. A six-dimensional structural equation model with 29 indicators was then established.

The findings highlight the multidimensionality of owner BIM capabilities and show that process capabilities play a crucial role in enhancing owner BIM capabilities, while technical capabilities are considered as the least important aspect.

The study sheds light on the key role of project owner organizations in ensuring BIM value and suggests that project owners focus more on the organizational processes of introducing BIM in managing projects.

This study reconceptualizes owner BIM capabilities drawing on the idea of resource-based view and information technology capabilities and highlights the important dimensions and indicators of owner BIM capabilities at the organizational level.

]]>
Conceptualization and measurement of owner BIM capabilities: from a project owner organization perspective10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0934Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-19© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedPengcheng PanYu WangYumiao YangSujuan ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1910.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0934https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0934/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influencing factors and improvement strategies of supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities: the case of Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0956/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study adopts the perspective of dynamic capabilities to investigate influencing factors and proposes improvement strategies of supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction. The structural equation model (SEM) is used to identify and verify the relationship between factors influencing supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. The system dynamics (SD) model is constructed to dynamically simulate the specific effects of different influencing factors. Results indicate that: (1) An evaluation index system for supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction containing five first-level indicators and 36 second-level indicators is constructed; (2) Ability to anticipate, ability to respond, ability to adapt, ability to recover and ability to learn are positively correlated with the supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction and (3) ANT3 (information system), RES1 (quick response), ADA3 (buffer stock) and LEA4 (trust) are the most leading factors influencing supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction over time. This study fulfills the need for an in-depth exploration of the various influencing factors on supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. Furthermore, this study provides improvement strategies to enhance supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction in China.Influencing factors and improvement strategies of supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities: the case of China
Xinnan Liu, Jiani Meng, Jiayi Wang, Yingbo Ji
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study adopts the perspective of dynamic capabilities to investigate influencing factors and proposes improvement strategies of supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction.

The structural equation model (SEM) is used to identify and verify the relationship between factors influencing supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. The system dynamics (SD) model is constructed to dynamically simulate the specific effects of different influencing factors.

Results indicate that: (1) An evaluation index system for supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction containing five first-level indicators and 36 second-level indicators is constructed; (2) Ability to anticipate, ability to respond, ability to adapt, ability to recover and ability to learn are positively correlated with the supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction and (3) ANT3 (information system), RES1 (quick response), ADA3 (buffer stock) and LEA4 (trust) are the most leading factors influencing supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction over time.

This study fulfills the need for an in-depth exploration of the various influencing factors on supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities. Furthermore, this study provides improvement strategies to enhance supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction in China.

]]>
Influencing factors and improvement strategies of supply chain resilience of prefabricated construction from the perspective of dynamic capabilities: the case of China10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0956Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-23© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXinnan LiuJiani MengJiayi WangYingbo JiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2310.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0956https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0956/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Digital technology-enabled AEC project management: practical use cases, deployment patterns and emerging trendshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0962/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite extensive academic research related to digital technologies (DT), their integration into architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) projects lags in practice. This paper aims to discover DT deployment patterns and emerging trends in real-life AEC projects. A case study methodology was adopted, including individual case analyses and comparative multiple-case analyses. The results revealed the temporal distribution of DT in practical AEC projects, specific DT products/software, major project types integrated with digital solutions, DT application areas and project stages and associated project performance. Three distinct patterns in DT adoption have been observed, reflecting the evolution of DT applications, the progression from single to multiple DT integration and alignment with emerging industry requirements. The DT adoption behavior in the studied cases has been examined using the technology-organization-environment-human (TOE + H) framework. Further, eight emerging trend streams for future DT adoption were identified, with “leveraging the diverse features of certain mature DT” being a shared recognition of all studied companies. This research offers actionable insights for AEC companies, facilitating the development of customized DT implementation roadmaps aligned with organizational needs. Policymakers, industry associations and DT suppliers may leverage these findings for informed decision-making, collaborative educational initiatives and product/service customization. This research provides empirical evidence of applicable products/software, application areas and project performance. The examination of the TOE + H framework offers a holistic understanding of the collective influences on DT adoption. The identification of emerging trends addresses the evolving demands of the AEC industry in the digital era.Digital technology-enabled AEC project management: practical use cases, deployment patterns and emerging trends
Xichen Chen, Alice Yan Chang-Richards, Florence Yean Yng Ling, Tak Wing Yiu, Antony Pelosi, Nan Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite extensive academic research related to digital technologies (DT), their integration into architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) projects lags in practice. This paper aims to discover DT deployment patterns and emerging trends in real-life AEC projects.

A case study methodology was adopted, including individual case analyses and comparative multiple-case analyses.

The results revealed the temporal distribution of DT in practical AEC projects, specific DT products/software, major project types integrated with digital solutions, DT application areas and project stages and associated project performance. Three distinct patterns in DT adoption have been observed, reflecting the evolution of DT applications, the progression from single to multiple DT integration and alignment with emerging industry requirements. The DT adoption behavior in the studied cases has been examined using the technology-organization-environment-human (TOE + H) framework. Further, eight emerging trend streams for future DT adoption were identified, with “leveraging the diverse features of certain mature DT” being a shared recognition of all studied companies.

This research offers actionable insights for AEC companies, facilitating the development of customized DT implementation roadmaps aligned with organizational needs. Policymakers, industry associations and DT suppliers may leverage these findings for informed decision-making, collaborative educational initiatives and product/service customization.

This research provides empirical evidence of applicable products/software, application areas and project performance. The examination of the TOE + H framework offers a holistic understanding of the collective influences on DT adoption. The identification of emerging trends addresses the evolving demands of the AEC industry in the digital era.

]]>
Digital technology-enabled AEC project management: practical use cases, deployment patterns and emerging trends10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0962Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedXichen ChenAlice Yan Chang-RichardsFlorence Yean Yng LingTak Wing YiuAntony PelosiNan YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0962https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0962/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A framework to integrate virtual reality into international standard safety trainingshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0969/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification bodies to enhance construction safety training, which eventually leads to safer construction sites. The adopted methodology combines expert insights and experimentation to maximize the effectiveness of construction safety training. The first step was identifying key considerations for VR models such as motion sickness prevention and adult learning theories. The second step was developing a game-like VR model for safety training, with multiple hazards and scenarios based on the considerations of the previous step. After that, safety experts evaluated the model and provided valuable feedback on its alignment with international safety training practices. Finally, the developed model is tested by senior students, where the testing format followed the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) working safely exam structure. An advanced immersive VR safety training model was developed based on extensive lessons learned from the literature, previous work and psychology-informed adult learning theories. Model testing – through focus groups and hands-on experimentation – demonstrated significant benefit of VR in upgrading and complementing traditional training methods. The findings presented in this paper make a significant contribution to the field of safety training within the construction industry and the broader context of immersive learning experiences. It also fosters further exploration into immersive learning experiences across educational and professional contexts.A framework to integrate virtual reality into international standard safety trainings
Ibrahim S. Abotaleb, Yasmin Elhakim, Mohamed El Rifaee, Sahar Bader, Osama Hosny, Ahmed Abodonya, Salma Ibrahim, Mohamed Sherif, Abdelrahman Sorour, Mennatallah Soliman
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification bodies to enhance construction safety training, which eventually leads to safer construction sites.

The adopted methodology combines expert insights and experimentation to maximize the effectiveness of construction safety training. The first step was identifying key considerations for VR models such as motion sickness prevention and adult learning theories. The second step was developing a game-like VR model for safety training, with multiple hazards and scenarios based on the considerations of the previous step. After that, safety experts evaluated the model and provided valuable feedback on its alignment with international safety training practices. Finally, the developed model is tested by senior students, where the testing format followed the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) working safely exam structure.

An advanced immersive VR safety training model was developed based on extensive lessons learned from the literature, previous work and psychology-informed adult learning theories. Model testing – through focus groups and hands-on experimentation – demonstrated significant benefit of VR in upgrading and complementing traditional training methods.

The findings presented in this paper make a significant contribution to the field of safety training within the construction industry and the broader context of immersive learning experiences. It also fosters further exploration into immersive learning experiences across educational and professional contexts.

]]>
A framework to integrate virtual reality into international standard safety trainings10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0969Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedIbrahim S. AbotalebYasmin ElhakimMohamed El RifaeeSahar BaderOsama HosnyAhmed AbodonyaSalma IbrahimMohamed SherifAbdelrahman SorourMennatallah SolimanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1810.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0969https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-09-2023-0969/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) assessment of Kuwait mega construction projects' complexityhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2021-0933/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMegaproject's construction is essential for the development and economic growth of any country, especially in the developing world. In Kuwait, megaprojects are facing many restrictions that discourage their execution causing a significant delay in bidding, design, construction and operation phases with the execution quality being affected. The objective of this study is to develop a complexity measurement model using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) for megaprojects in Kuwait, with a focus on the New Kuwait University multi-billion campus Shadadiyah (College of Social Science, Sharia and Law (CSSL)) as a case study. The study applies a hybrid fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method to compare the results with those obtained using the conventional AHP method. This can facilitate the project management activities during the different stages of construction. Data were collected based on the results of a two-round Delphi questionnaire completed by seniors and experts of the selected project. It was found that project modeling methodology was responsible for complexity. It was grouped under several categories that include technological, goal, organizational, environmental and cultural complexities. The study compares complexity degrees assessed by AHP and FAHP methods. “Technological Complexity” scores highest in both methods, with FAHP reaching 7.46. “Goal Complexity” follows closely behind, with FAHP. “Cultural Complexity” ranks third, differing between methods, while “Organizational” and “Environmental Complexity” consistently score lower, with FAHP values slightly higher. These results show varying complexity levels across dimensions. Assessing and understanding such complexities were essential toward the completion of such megaprojects. The contribution of this study is on providing the empirical evidential knowledge for the priority over construction complexities in a developing country (Kuwait) in the Middle East.Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) assessment of Kuwait mega construction projects' complexity
Sharaf AlKheder, Hajar Al Otaibi, Zahra Al Baghli, Shaikhah Al Ajmi, Mohammad Alkhedher
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Megaproject's construction is essential for the development and economic growth of any country, especially in the developing world. In Kuwait, megaprojects are facing many restrictions that discourage their execution causing a significant delay in bidding, design, construction and operation phases with the execution quality being affected. The objective of this study is to develop a complexity measurement model using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) for megaprojects in Kuwait, with a focus on the New Kuwait University multi-billion campus Shadadiyah (College of Social Science, Sharia and Law (CSSL)) as a case study.

The study applies a hybrid fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) method to compare the results with those obtained using the conventional AHP method. This can facilitate the project management activities during the different stages of construction. Data were collected based on the results of a two-round Delphi questionnaire completed by seniors and experts of the selected project.

It was found that project modeling methodology was responsible for complexity. It was grouped under several categories that include technological, goal, organizational, environmental and cultural complexities. The study compares complexity degrees assessed by AHP and FAHP methods. “Technological Complexity” scores highest in both methods, with FAHP reaching 7.46. “Goal Complexity” follows closely behind, with FAHP. “Cultural Complexity” ranks third, differing between methods, while “Organizational” and “Environmental Complexity” consistently score lower, with FAHP values slightly higher. These results show varying complexity levels across dimensions. Assessing and understanding such complexities were essential toward the completion of such megaprojects.

The contribution of this study is on providing the empirical evidential knowledge for the priority over construction complexities in a developing country (Kuwait) in the Middle East.

]]>
Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) assessment of Kuwait mega construction projects' complexity10.1108/ECAM-10-2021-0933Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSharaf AlKhederHajar Al OtaibiZahra Al BaghliShaikhah Al AjmiMohammad AlkhedherEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-2110.1108/ECAM-10-2021-0933https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2021-0933/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Buffer allocation in construction projects: a disruption mitigation approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0925/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestA variety of buffer allocation methods exist to distribute an aggregated time buffer among project activities. However, these methods do not pay simultaneous attention to two key attributes of disruptive events that may occur during the construction phase: probability and impact. This paper fills this research gap by developing a buffer allocation method that takes into account the synergistic impact of these two attributes on project activities. This paper develops a three-step method, calculating the probability that project activities are disrupted in the first step, followed by measuring the potential impact of disruption on project activities, and then proposing a risk-informed buffer allocation index by simultaneously integrating probability and impact outputs from the first two steps. The proposed method provides more accurate results by sidestepping the shortcomings of conventional fuzzy-based and simulation-based methods that are purely based on expert judgments or historical precedence. Further, the paper provides decision-makers with a buffer allocation method that helps in developing cost-effective buffering and backup strategies by prioritizing project activities and their required resources. This paper develops a risk-informed buffer allocation method that differs from those already available. The simultaneous pursuit of the probability and impact of disruptions distinguishes our method from conventional buffer allocation methods. Further, this paper intertwines the research domains of complexity science and construction management by performing centrality analysis and incorporating a key attribute of project complexity (i.e. the interconnectedness between project activities) into the process for buffer allocation.Buffer allocation in construction projects: a disruption mitigation approach
Seyed Ashkan Zarghami, Ofer Zwikael
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

A variety of buffer allocation methods exist to distribute an aggregated time buffer among project activities. However, these methods do not pay simultaneous attention to two key attributes of disruptive events that may occur during the construction phase: probability and impact. This paper fills this research gap by developing a buffer allocation method that takes into account the synergistic impact of these two attributes on project activities.

This paper develops a three-step method, calculating the probability that project activities are disrupted in the first step, followed by measuring the potential impact of disruption on project activities, and then proposing a risk-informed buffer allocation index by simultaneously integrating probability and impact outputs from the first two steps.

The proposed method provides more accurate results by sidestepping the shortcomings of conventional fuzzy-based and simulation-based methods that are purely based on expert judgments or historical precedence. Further, the paper provides decision-makers with a buffer allocation method that helps in developing cost-effective buffering and backup strategies by prioritizing project activities and their required resources.

This paper develops a risk-informed buffer allocation method that differs from those already available. The simultaneous pursuit of the probability and impact of disruptions distinguishes our method from conventional buffer allocation methods. Further, this paper intertwines the research domains of complexity science and construction management by performing centrality analysis and incorporating a key attribute of project complexity (i.e. the interconnectedness between project activities) into the process for buffer allocation.

]]>
Buffer allocation in construction projects: a disruption mitigation approach10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0925Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSeyed Ashkan ZarghamiOfer ZwikaelEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-3010.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0925https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0925/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Job crafting intervention for job burnout and work engagement among young construction project management practitioners in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0935/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestYoung construction project management practitioners (CPMPs) have unique, complex, and notable occupational mental health problems. However, there were few studies about the intervention for occupational mental health of CPMPs, and traditional intervention modes often failed to achieve significant effects. Therefore, this study aims to propose a new and effective intervention method. Job crafting intervention was used to design an intervention experiment. A total of 72 CPMPs participated in a 10-week randomized controlled trial in China. Descriptive statistics and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to verify the effectiveness of job crafting intervention (JCI) on job crafting behaviors, job burnout, and work engagement with consideration of the impact of time. Results showed that the intervention increased social resources, thus effectively reducing job burnout and promoting work engagement. Time also had a significant impact on cynicism, dedication, and social resources. The authors should promote the habit of job crafting in CPMPs. Furthermore, in order to facilitate their job crafting, the authors should increase structural and social resources for them, and the authors can also encourage them to undertake challenging demands to increase their self-efficacy and the sense of achievement. The authors bring into light a new psychological intervention approach among CPMPs, which integrates the advantages of the guidance in traditional organized intervention methods and the proactivity in individual spontaneous job crafting. The authors verify the efficacy of the JCI among CPMPs and help propose countermeasures and suggestions to improve the occupational mental health of CPMPs.Job crafting intervention for job burnout and work engagement among young construction project management practitioners in China
Fan Yang, Yifan Fei, Lin Guo, Xiuxiu Bai, Xiaodong Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Young construction project management practitioners (CPMPs) have unique, complex, and notable occupational mental health problems. However, there were few studies about the intervention for occupational mental health of CPMPs, and traditional intervention modes often failed to achieve significant effects. Therefore, this study aims to propose a new and effective intervention method.

Job crafting intervention was used to design an intervention experiment. A total of 72 CPMPs participated in a 10-week randomized controlled trial in China. Descriptive statistics and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to verify the effectiveness of job crafting intervention (JCI) on job crafting behaviors, job burnout, and work engagement with consideration of the impact of time.

Results showed that the intervention increased social resources, thus effectively reducing job burnout and promoting work engagement. Time also had a significant impact on cynicism, dedication, and social resources.

The authors should promote the habit of job crafting in CPMPs. Furthermore, in order to facilitate their job crafting, the authors should increase structural and social resources for them, and the authors can also encourage them to undertake challenging demands to increase their self-efficacy and the sense of achievement.

The authors bring into light a new psychological intervention approach among CPMPs, which integrates the advantages of the guidance in traditional organized intervention methods and the proactivity in individual spontaneous job crafting. The authors verify the efficacy of the JCI among CPMPs and help propose countermeasures and suggestions to improve the occupational mental health of CPMPs.

]]>
Job crafting intervention for job burnout and work engagement among young construction project management practitioners in China10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0935Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedFan YangYifan FeiLin GuoXiuxiu BaiXiaodong LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-1610.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0935https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0935/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Application maturity evaluation of building steel structure welding robotic technology based on multi-level gray theoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0937/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to establish a maturity evaluation model for the application of construction steel structure welding robotics suitable for the actual situation and specific characteristics of engineering projects in China and then to assess the maturity level of the technology in the application of domestic engineering projects more scientifically. The research follows a qualitative and quantitative analysis method. In the first stage, the structure of the maturity model is constructed and the evaluation index system is designed by using the ideas of the capability maturity model and WSR methodology for reference. In the second stage, the design of the evaluation process and the selection of evaluation methods (analytic hierarchy process method, multi-level gray comprehensive evaluation method). In the third stage, the data are collected and organized (preparation of questionnaires, distribution of questionnaires, questionnaire collection). In the fourth stage, the established maturity evaluation model is used to analyze the data. The evaluation model established by using multi-level gray theory can effectively transform various complex indicators into an intuitive maturity level or score status. The conclusion shows that the application maturity of building steel structure welding robot technology in this project is at the development level as a whole. The maturity levels of “WuLi – ShiLi – RenLi” are respectively: development level, development level, between starting level and development level. Comparison of maturity evaluation values of five important factors (from high to low): environmental factors, technical factors, management factors, benefit factors, personnel and group factors. In this paper, based on the existing research related to construction steel structure welding robot technology, a quantitative and holistic evaluation of the application of construction steel structure welding robot technology in domestic engineering projects is conducted for the first time from a project perspective by designing a maturity evaluation index system and establishing a maturity evaluation model. This research will help the project team to evaluate the application level (maturity) of the welding robot in the actual project, identify the shortcomings and defects of the application of this technology, then improve the weak links pertinently, and finally realize the gradual improvement of the overall application level of welding robot technology for building steel structure.Application maturity evaluation of building steel structure welding robotic technology based on multi-level gray theory
Hongliang Yu, Zhen Peng, Zirui He, Chun Huang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to establish a maturity evaluation model for the application of construction steel structure welding robotics suitable for the actual situation and specific characteristics of engineering projects in China and then to assess the maturity level of the technology in the application of domestic engineering projects more scientifically.

The research follows a qualitative and quantitative analysis method. In the first stage, the structure of the maturity model is constructed and the evaluation index system is designed by using the ideas of the capability maturity model and WSR methodology for reference. In the second stage, the design of the evaluation process and the selection of evaluation methods (analytic hierarchy process method, multi-level gray comprehensive evaluation method). In the third stage, the data are collected and organized (preparation of questionnaires, distribution of questionnaires, questionnaire collection). In the fourth stage, the established maturity evaluation model is used to analyze the data.

The evaluation model established by using multi-level gray theory can effectively transform various complex indicators into an intuitive maturity level or score status. The conclusion shows that the application maturity of building steel structure welding robot technology in this project is at the development level as a whole. The maturity levels of “WuLi – ShiLi – RenLi” are respectively: development level, development level, between starting level and development level. Comparison of maturity evaluation values of five important factors (from high to low): environmental factors, technical factors, management factors, benefit factors, personnel and group factors.

In this paper, based on the existing research related to construction steel structure welding robot technology, a quantitative and holistic evaluation of the application of construction steel structure welding robot technology in domestic engineering projects is conducted for the first time from a project perspective by designing a maturity evaluation index system and establishing a maturity evaluation model. This research will help the project team to evaluate the application level (maturity) of the welding robot in the actual project, identify the shortcomings and defects of the application of this technology, then improve the weak links pertinently, and finally realize the gradual improvement of the overall application level of welding robot technology for building steel structure.

]]>
Application maturity evaluation of building steel structure welding robotic technology based on multi-level gray theory10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0937Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHongliang YuZhen PengZirui HeChun HuangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1210.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0937https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0937/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploration of exhaustion in early-career construction professionals in Indiahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0938/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this study is to examine the effect of job, organizational and personal factors on exhaustion (EXH) in early career construction professionals in India. A survey questionnaire was developed and circulated among early career construction professionals in India. The responses on job, organizational and personal demands (role ambiguity, stakeholder management and work-family conflict respectively) and job, organizational and personal resources (job autonomy (JA), perceived organizational support and emotional intelligence respectively) were sought using standard measures. The valid data (N = 187) thus collected, was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM). The study finds that in terms of demands, stakeholder management and work family conflict have a significant positive effect on EXH. In other words, EXH level increases with the increase in these two. With respect to resources, JA has a negative effect on EXH. This implies that as JA increases, the EXH level goes down. This study is the first to examine factors causing EXH in early career construction professionals in India. This study is significant on two counts. First, it proposes a comprehensive theoretical model based in job demands-resources (JD-R) theory customized for construction sector. Second, the empirical examination is situated in the Indian context, which remains underexplored despite its economic and demographic significance.Exploration of exhaustion in early-career construction professionals in India
Ashish Rastogi, Harish Kumar Singla
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of job, organizational and personal factors on exhaustion (EXH) in early career construction professionals in India.

A survey questionnaire was developed and circulated among early career construction professionals in India. The responses on job, organizational and personal demands (role ambiguity, stakeholder management and work-family conflict respectively) and job, organizational and personal resources (job autonomy (JA), perceived organizational support and emotional intelligence respectively) were sought using standard measures. The valid data (N = 187) thus collected, was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM).

The study finds that in terms of demands, stakeholder management and work family conflict have a significant positive effect on EXH. In other words, EXH level increases with the increase in these two. With respect to resources, JA has a negative effect on EXH. This implies that as JA increases, the EXH level goes down.

This study is the first to examine factors causing EXH in early career construction professionals in India. This study is significant on two counts. First, it proposes a comprehensive theoretical model based in job demands-resources (JD-R) theory customized for construction sector. Second, the empirical examination is situated in the Indian context, which remains underexplored despite its economic and demographic significance.

]]>
Exploration of exhaustion in early-career construction professionals in India10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0938Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAshish RastogiHarish Kumar SinglaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-3010.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0938https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0938/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A supply chain perspective of prefabricated housebuilding diffusion in New Zealandhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0941/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGlobally, prefabrication in housebuilding has evolved as an innovative approach to attain sustainability and affordability. However, the SC, including non-producers and producers, of prefabricated housebuilding projects is still not perceptually aligned, hindering innovation diffusion. This paper investigates the contemporary industry perspective on PHB for conceptualisation, market share and growth, innovation diffusion and the producer's role in the context of New Zealand. An exploratory qualitative research design was chosen to learn the perceptual stance of the industry. A semi-structured survey was conducted, followed by interviews with selected supply chain participants, who were producers and non-producers and had relevant experience in the PHB industry. This study reports the common terminologies used by supply chain members, with justification and explanation. Further, the perceived market share and growth of the PHB industry are obtained and compared with subsequent studies to determine the capability and capacity. The perception of the diffusion of PHB by type is reported to portray the overall trend of the industry. In the last, the role of producers as the suppliers of PHB projects is investigated to establish the stakeholder positional criticality. This study can help researchers and practitioners gain insight into the PHB industry from a multi-dimensional perspective. This study is a potential first step to formalise the policy, programme, strategies and action plan for the uptake of the PHB in the New Zealand. PHB diffusion in the supply chain perspective, considering multi-dimensional aspects, has not been considered in previous studies as government agencies produce most of the literature. This academic research establishes the theoretical linkage towards PHB diffusion and reports the current status.A supply chain perspective of prefabricated housebuilding diffusion in New Zealand
Rehan Masood, Krishanu Roy, Vicente A. González, James B.P. Lim, Abdur Rehman Nasir
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Globally, prefabrication in housebuilding has evolved as an innovative approach to attain sustainability and affordability. However, the SC, including non-producers and producers, of prefabricated housebuilding projects is still not perceptually aligned, hindering innovation diffusion. This paper investigates the contemporary industry perspective on PHB for conceptualisation, market share and growth, innovation diffusion and the producer's role in the context of New Zealand.

An exploratory qualitative research design was chosen to learn the perceptual stance of the industry. A semi-structured survey was conducted, followed by interviews with selected supply chain participants, who were producers and non-producers and had relevant experience in the PHB industry.

This study reports the common terminologies used by supply chain members, with justification and explanation. Further, the perceived market share and growth of the PHB industry are obtained and compared with subsequent studies to determine the capability and capacity. The perception of the diffusion of PHB by type is reported to portray the overall trend of the industry. In the last, the role of producers as the suppliers of PHB projects is investigated to establish the stakeholder positional criticality.

This study can help researchers and practitioners gain insight into the PHB industry from a multi-dimensional perspective. This study is a potential first step to formalise the policy, programme, strategies and action plan for the uptake of the PHB in the New Zealand.

PHB diffusion in the supply chain perspective, considering multi-dimensional aspects, has not been considered in previous studies as government agencies produce most of the literature. This academic research establishes the theoretical linkage towards PHB diffusion and reports the current status.

]]>
A supply chain perspective of prefabricated housebuilding diffusion in New Zealand10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0941Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedRehan MasoodKrishanu RoyVicente A. GonzálezJames B.P. LimAbdur Rehman NasirEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1410.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0941https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0941/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Structural equation model (SEM) for evaluating interrelationships among risks inherent in Ghanaian public–private partnership (PPP) power projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0943/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe demand for power has surged in recent times and continues to increase yearly. In comparison to developed countries, the power industry’s risks, especially in piblic–private partnership (PPP) projects, are more complex and essential in developing countries. Appreciating the inter relationship among these risk factors is crucial. However, there exist no studies developing quantitative models to explain how various PPP power risk factors influence each other, especially in developing countries like Ghana. This study aims to investigate and model the relationship, the probability of occurrence and severity of impact of PPP power risk factors in Ghana. Data were collected through ranking type questionnaire in a two-round Delphi survey with 48 respondents using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used for analysis of data. A model was developed to investigate the influence the risk factors inherent in PPP power projects have on each other. Validity of the model was tested based on the data collected. PLS-SEM results indicated the various relationships and interdependencies the risk factors had on each other considering their probability and severity. Both significant and insignificant levels of relationships were found among the various risk factors. The SEM that was developed to assess the relationships among the risk factors has great value for policy makers in the energy sector, industry practitioners, researchers and industry practitioners. Strategies can be mapped out to mitigate and effectively allocate the risks with the high interdependencies. Regarding the quantitative impact of the interrelationship among risk factors in PPP power projects, the findings of this research are arguably the first to be presented for the construction sector and contribute to knowledge on PPP practice and further has implications toward achieving power sector risk mitigation.Structural equation model (SEM) for evaluating interrelationships among risks inherent in Ghanaian public–private partnership (PPP) power projects
Augustine Senanu Komla Kukah, De-Graft Owusu-Manu, Edward Badu, Eric Asamoah
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The demand for power has surged in recent times and continues to increase yearly. In comparison to developed countries, the power industry’s risks, especially in piblic–private partnership (PPP) projects, are more complex and essential in developing countries. Appreciating the inter relationship among these risk factors is crucial. However, there exist no studies developing quantitative models to explain how various PPP power risk factors influence each other, especially in developing countries like Ghana. This study aims to investigate and model the relationship, the probability of occurrence and severity of impact of PPP power risk factors in Ghana.

Data were collected through ranking type questionnaire in a two-round Delphi survey with 48 respondents using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used for analysis of data.

A model was developed to investigate the influence the risk factors inherent in PPP power projects have on each other. Validity of the model was tested based on the data collected. PLS-SEM results indicated the various relationships and interdependencies the risk factors had on each other considering their probability and severity. Both significant and insignificant levels of relationships were found among the various risk factors.

The SEM that was developed to assess the relationships among the risk factors has great value for policy makers in the energy sector, industry practitioners, researchers and industry practitioners. Strategies can be mapped out to mitigate and effectively allocate the risks with the high interdependencies.

Regarding the quantitative impact of the interrelationship among risk factors in PPP power projects, the findings of this research are arguably the first to be presented for the construction sector and contribute to knowledge on PPP practice and further has implications toward achieving power sector risk mitigation.

]]>
Structural equation model (SEM) for evaluating interrelationships among risks inherent in Ghanaian public–private partnership (PPP) power projects10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0943Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-27© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedAugustine Senanu Komla KukahDe-Graft Owusu-ManuEdward BaduEric AsamoahEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-2710.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0943https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0943/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
How the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic affected housing sector? Empirical evidence from Turkeyhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0944/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to analyze the relationship between the consequences of the pandemic and the housing sector with econometric tests that allow for structural breaks. Study data were collected weekly between March 9, 2020, and February 4, 2022, and analyzed for Turkey. In the model of the study, housing loans were used as a housing market indicator, and the number of new deaths and new cases were used as data related to the pandemic. The exchange rate, which affects the use of housing loans, was added to the model as a control variable. This study was analyzed to examine the relationship between the pandemic and the housing sector, time series analysis techniques that allow structural breaks were used. Based on the result of the analyses, it was concluded that there is a long-run relationship between the pandemic stages and housing markets along with structural breaks. As a result of the time-varying causality test developed to determine the causality relationship between the variables and its direction, a bidirectional causality relationship was identified between all variables at certain dates. Study data were collected weekly between March 9, 2020, and February 4, 2022, and analyzed in the case of Turkey. Based on results of the study, it is recommended that policy makers and market actors take into account extraordinary situations such as pandemics and create a budget allocation that is always ready to use for this purpose. The empirical examination of the relationship between the pandemic and the housing sector in Turkey provides originality to this study in terms of its topic, sample, methodology, contribution to the literature and potential policy recommendations.How the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic affected housing sector? Empirical evidence from Turkey
Ibrahim Cutcu, Guven Atay, Selcuk Gokhan Gerlikhan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the consequences of the pandemic and the housing sector with econometric tests that allow for structural breaks.

Study data were collected weekly between March 9, 2020, and February 4, 2022, and analyzed for Turkey. In the model of the study, housing loans were used as a housing market indicator, and the number of new deaths and new cases were used as data related to the pandemic. The exchange rate, which affects the use of housing loans, was added to the model as a control variable. This study was analyzed to examine the relationship between the pandemic and the housing sector, time series analysis techniques that allow structural breaks were used.

Based on the result of the analyses, it was concluded that there is a long-run relationship between the pandemic stages and housing markets along with structural breaks. As a result of the time-varying causality test developed to determine the causality relationship between the variables and its direction, a bidirectional causality relationship was identified between all variables at certain dates.

Study data were collected weekly between March 9, 2020, and February 4, 2022, and analyzed in the case of Turkey.

Based on results of the study, it is recommended that policy makers and market actors take into account extraordinary situations such as pandemics and create a budget allocation that is always ready to use for this purpose.

The empirical examination of the relationship between the pandemic and the housing sector in Turkey provides originality to this study in terms of its topic, sample, methodology, contribution to the literature and potential policy recommendations.

]]>
How the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic affected housing sector? Empirical evidence from Turkey10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0944Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedIbrahim CutcuGuven AtaySelcuk Gokhan GerlikhanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2710.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0944https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0944/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation: a mediation modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0949/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWith the continuous improvement of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the participants' value creation goals are not only limited to achieving the basic performance objectives but also to realising value added. However, the effect of traditional contract management on realising the value creation objectives of PPP projects is limited. According to the view of multifunctional contract, joint-contract functions that integrate contract control and flexibility are likely to be effective in enhancing the value creation of PPP projects. This study aims to explore the effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation and relevant influencing mechanism by investigating the mediating effect of in-role behaviour and extra-role behaviour. After collecting 258 valid questionnaires from PPP professionals in China, this study used structural equation modelling to validate the hypotheses. Contract control and flexibility can improve PPP project value creation. Specifically, contract control improves the achievement of the basic contract objectives of PPP projects, whereas contract flexibility enhances the achievement of the value-added of PPP projects. Moreover, only in-role behaviour mediates the effect of contract control on value creation. In addition, the mediating effect of extra-role behaviour on the impact of contract flexibility on value creation is stronger than that of in-role behaviour. The mediating effect of in- and extra-role behaviour is mainly reflected in the realisation of basic and value-added performance, respectively. The findings of this study can help realise value creation in three ways. Firstly, new perspectives for PPP project value creation should be proposed by combining the improvement of contract objectives and the realisation of the participants' implicit demands. Secondly, the effects of different contract functions on value creation should be analysed instead of a single dimension of contractual governance. Thirdly, the mediating effects of different types of cooperation behaviour that may influence the relationship between contractual governance and value creation should be evaluated. This study verifies the impacts of different contract functions on PPP project value creation. In addition, cooperative behaviour is embedded as a mediating variable, and the mediated transmission path from contract function to cooperative behaviour and further to PPP project value creation is systematically analysed.The effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation: a mediation model
Xuewei Li, Jingfeng Yuan, Xuan Liu, Guangqi Wang, Qian-Cheng Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

With the continuous improvement of public–private partnership (PPP) projects, the participants' value creation goals are not only limited to achieving the basic performance objectives but also to realising value added. However, the effect of traditional contract management on realising the value creation objectives of PPP projects is limited. According to the view of multifunctional contract, joint-contract functions that integrate contract control and flexibility are likely to be effective in enhancing the value creation of PPP projects. This study aims to explore the effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation and relevant influencing mechanism by investigating the mediating effect of in-role behaviour and extra-role behaviour.

After collecting 258 valid questionnaires from PPP professionals in China, this study used structural equation modelling to validate the hypotheses.

Contract control and flexibility can improve PPP project value creation. Specifically, contract control improves the achievement of the basic contract objectives of PPP projects, whereas contract flexibility enhances the achievement of the value-added of PPP projects. Moreover, only in-role behaviour mediates the effect of contract control on value creation. In addition, the mediating effect of extra-role behaviour on the impact of contract flexibility on value creation is stronger than that of in-role behaviour. The mediating effect of in- and extra-role behaviour is mainly reflected in the realisation of basic and value-added performance, respectively.

The findings of this study can help realise value creation in three ways. Firstly, new perspectives for PPP project value creation should be proposed by combining the improvement of contract objectives and the realisation of the participants' implicit demands. Secondly, the effects of different contract functions on value creation should be analysed instead of a single dimension of contractual governance. Thirdly, the mediating effects of different types of cooperation behaviour that may influence the relationship between contractual governance and value creation should be evaluated.

This study verifies the impacts of different contract functions on PPP project value creation. In addition, cooperative behaviour is embedded as a mediating variable, and the mediated transmission path from contract function to cooperative behaviour and further to PPP project value creation is systematically analysed.

]]>
The effects of joint-contract functions on PPP project value creation: a mediation model10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0949Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-25© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXuewei LiJingfeng YuanXuan LiuGuangqi WangQian-Cheng WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2510.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0949https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0949/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A sustainable–lean implementation methodology: a catalyst for sustainability enhancement of high-rise residential projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0951/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe importance of lean and sustainability integration in sustainable construction (SC) has been extensively studied. However, a practical and thorough implementation methodology addressing the project life cycle phases is still inadequate. The present study has developed a novel phase-wise sustainable–lean implementation methodology for high-rise residential projects. The current study has identified the 50 direct conceptual interactions between 11 lean principles and 11 sustainability criteria encompassing 44 different attributes covering 174 sustainability actions. A panel of nine experts validated these interactions, and 50 integration vectors were proposed addressing different phases of the project life cycle of high-rise residential buildings. The experts also analysed the identified integration vectors for their current and likely future implementation in high-rise residential projects. The interactions between lean and sustainability principles led to the development of a phase-wise implementation methodology. The experts' survey responses on the current level of implementation revealed that 40, 32 and 28% of integration vectors were implemented rarely, sometimes, and frequently, respectively. For likely future implementation, 28 and 72% integration vectors were reported as very likely and extremely likely to implement, respectively. This survey response highlighted the usefulness of identified integration vectors for enhancing the sustainability of high-rise residential projects. The proposed sustainable–lean implementation methodology acts as a comprehensive guideline for implementing a lean approach to achieve the objectives of SC in high-rise residential projects. This may facilitate the transition from conventional to sustainable building practices using a lean approach.A sustainable–lean implementation methodology: a catalyst for sustainability enhancement of high-rise residential projects
Vidya Umakant Khanapure, Sameer S. Shastri
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The importance of lean and sustainability integration in sustainable construction (SC) has been extensively studied. However, a practical and thorough implementation methodology addressing the project life cycle phases is still inadequate. The present study has developed a novel phase-wise sustainable–lean implementation methodology for high-rise residential projects.

The current study has identified the 50 direct conceptual interactions between 11 lean principles and 11 sustainability criteria encompassing 44 different attributes covering 174 sustainability actions. A panel of nine experts validated these interactions, and 50 integration vectors were proposed addressing different phases of the project life cycle of high-rise residential buildings. The experts also analysed the identified integration vectors for their current and likely future implementation in high-rise residential projects.

The interactions between lean and sustainability principles led to the development of a phase-wise implementation methodology. The experts' survey responses on the current level of implementation revealed that 40, 32 and 28% of integration vectors were implemented rarely, sometimes, and frequently, respectively. For likely future implementation, 28 and 72% integration vectors were reported as very likely and extremely likely to implement, respectively. This survey response highlighted the usefulness of identified integration vectors for enhancing the sustainability of high-rise residential projects.

The proposed sustainable–lean implementation methodology acts as a comprehensive guideline for implementing a lean approach to achieve the objectives of SC in high-rise residential projects. This may facilitate the transition from conventional to sustainable building practices using a lean approach.

]]>
A sustainable–lean implementation methodology: a catalyst for sustainability enhancement of high-rise residential projects10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0951Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-06© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedVidya Umakant KhanapureSameer S. ShastriEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-0610.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0951https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0951/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Coping with abnormal organizational behaviors in complex project based on network attack theoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0959/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAbnormal behaviors such as rework, backlog, changes and claims generated by project organizations are unavoidable in complex projects. When abnormal behaviors emerge, the previously normal state of interactions between organizations will be altered to some extent. However, previous studies have ignored the associations and interactions between organizations in the context of abnormal organizational behaviors (AOBs), making this challenging to cope with AOBs. As a result, the objective of this paper is to explore how to reduce AOBs in complex projects at the organizational level from a network perspective. To overcome the inherent limitations of a single case study, this research integrated two data collection methods: questionnaire survey and expert scoring method. The questionnaire survey captured the universal data on the influence possibility of AOBs between complex project organizations and the expert scoring method got the influence probability scores of AOBs between organizations in the case. Using these data, four organizational influence network models of AOBs based on a case were developed to demonstrate how to destroy AOBs networks in complex projects using network attack theory (NAT). First, the findings show that controlling AOBs generated by key organizations preferentially and improving the ability of key organizations can weaken AOBs network, enabling more effective coping strategies. Second, the owners, government, material suppliers and designers are identified as key organizations across all four influence networks of AOBs. Third, change and claim behaviors are more manageable from the organizational level. Project managers can target specific organizations for intervention, weaken the AOBs network by applying NAT and achieve better project outcomes through coping strategies. Additionally, by taking a network perspective, this research provides a novel approach to comprehending the associations and interactions between organizations in the context of complex projects. This paper proposes a new approach to investigating AOBs in complex projects by simultaneously examining rework, backlog, change and claim. Leveraging NAT as a novel tool for managing the harmful effects of influence networks, this study extends the knowledge body in the field of organizational behavior (OB) management and complex project management.Coping with abnormal organizational behaviors in complex project based on network attack theory
Lin Yang, Xiaoyue Lv, Xianbo Zhao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Abnormal behaviors such as rework, backlog, changes and claims generated by project organizations are unavoidable in complex projects. When abnormal behaviors emerge, the previously normal state of interactions between organizations will be altered to some extent. However, previous studies have ignored the associations and interactions between organizations in the context of abnormal organizational behaviors (AOBs), making this challenging to cope with AOBs. As a result, the objective of this paper is to explore how to reduce AOBs in complex projects at the organizational level from a network perspective.

To overcome the inherent limitations of a single case study, this research integrated two data collection methods: questionnaire survey and expert scoring method. The questionnaire survey captured the universal data on the influence possibility of AOBs between complex project organizations and the expert scoring method got the influence probability scores of AOBs between organizations in the case. Using these data, four organizational influence network models of AOBs based on a case were developed to demonstrate how to destroy AOBs networks in complex projects using network attack theory (NAT).

First, the findings show that controlling AOBs generated by key organizations preferentially and improving the ability of key organizations can weaken AOBs network, enabling more effective coping strategies. Second, the owners, government, material suppliers and designers are identified as key organizations across all four influence networks of AOBs. Third, change and claim behaviors are more manageable from the organizational level.

Project managers can target specific organizations for intervention, weaken the AOBs network by applying NAT and achieve better project outcomes through coping strategies. Additionally, by taking a network perspective, this research provides a novel approach to comprehending the associations and interactions between organizations in the context of complex projects.

This paper proposes a new approach to investigating AOBs in complex projects by simultaneously examining rework, backlog, change and claim. Leveraging NAT as a novel tool for managing the harmful effects of influence networks, this study extends the knowledge body in the field of organizational behavior (OB) management and complex project management.

]]>
Coping with abnormal organizational behaviors in complex project based on network attack theory10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0959Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-24© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLin YangXiaoyue LvXianbo ZhaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2410.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0959https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0959/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Revolutionizing steel building project cost overrun risk assessment by Bayesian networkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0962/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn recent years, cost overrun becomes a common problem in steel building construction projects. The average percentage can vary widely depending on the project type, size, complexity and location. The steel structure change ratio in Taiwan is from 1 to 18% in statistics. The contractors always put every possible effort into preventing or mitigating project cost overruns, and one of the approaches is an accurate cost overrun risk estimate. Traditional project cost overrun risk assessment models mainly focus on macro-level evaluation and may not function well for the project-specific level (micro-level). This study creates a network-like connection model between the outcome (i.e. cost overrun risk) and the associated root causes in which the project status evaluation checklists of design, manufacturing, construction and interfaces are used to evaluate the checklists' influences through the Bayesian network (BN) composed by intermediate causes. Due to the constraint of data availability, BN nodes, relationships and conditional probabilities are defined to establish a BN-based steel building project cost overrun assessment model following the knowledge of experts. Because of the complexity of the BN, the construction of the BN structure is first to build BN's fault tree (FT) hierarchy. And then, basic BN framework is constructed by the transformation of the FT hierarchy. Furthermore, some worthwhile additional arcs among BN nodes are inserted if necessary. Furthermore, conditional probability tables (CPTs) among BN nodes are explored by experts following the concept of the ranked node. Finally, the BN-based model was validated against the final cost analysis reports of 15 steel building projects done in Taiwan and both were highly consistent. The overall BN-based model construction process consists of three steps: (1) FT construction and BN framework transformation, (2) CPT computation and (3) model validation. This study established a network-like bridge model between the outcome (i.e. cost overrun risk) and the root causes in a network of which cost influences are evaluated through the project-specific status evaluation checklists of design, manufacturing, construction and interfaces. This study overcame several limitations of the previous cost overrun risk assessment models: (1) few past research support assessment of cost overrun based on real-time project-owned data and (2) the traditional causal models inadequately depict interdependencies among influence factors of cost overrun at the network. The main influence factors of the cost overrun risk at the steel building projects in Taiwan were also examined using sensitivity analysis. The main root causes of cost overrun in steel building projects are design management and interface integration. The proposed model belongs to the project-specific causal assessment model using real-time project-owned status checklist data as input. Such a model was seldom surveyed in the past due to the complicated interdependence among causes in the network. For practical use, a convenient and simple regression equation was also developed to forecast the cost overrun risk of the steel building project based on the root causes as input. Based on the analysis of cost overrun risk and significant influence factors, proper tailor-made preventive strategies are established to reduce the occurrence of cost overrun at the project.Revolutionizing steel building project cost overrun risk assessment by Bayesian network
Sou-Sen Leu, Kuang-Jen Huang, Cathy Chang-Wei Hung, Pei-Lin Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In recent years, cost overrun becomes a common problem in steel building construction projects. The average percentage can vary widely depending on the project type, size, complexity and location. The steel structure change ratio in Taiwan is from 1 to 18% in statistics. The contractors always put every possible effort into preventing or mitigating project cost overruns, and one of the approaches is an accurate cost overrun risk estimate. Traditional project cost overrun risk assessment models mainly focus on macro-level evaluation and may not function well for the project-specific level (micro-level). This study creates a network-like connection model between the outcome (i.e. cost overrun risk) and the associated root causes in which the project status evaluation checklists of design, manufacturing, construction and interfaces are used to evaluate the checklists' influences through the Bayesian network (BN) composed by intermediate causes.

Due to the constraint of data availability, BN nodes, relationships and conditional probabilities are defined to establish a BN-based steel building project cost overrun assessment model following the knowledge of experts. Because of the complexity of the BN, the construction of the BN structure is first to build BN's fault tree (FT) hierarchy. And then, basic BN framework is constructed by the transformation of the FT hierarchy. Furthermore, some worthwhile additional arcs among BN nodes are inserted if necessary. Furthermore, conditional probability tables (CPTs) among BN nodes are explored by experts following the concept of the ranked node. Finally, the BN-based model was validated against the final cost analysis reports of 15 steel building projects done in Taiwan and both were highly consistent. The overall BN-based model construction process consists of three steps: (1) FT construction and BN framework transformation, (2) CPT computation and (3) model validation.

This study established a network-like bridge model between the outcome (i.e. cost overrun risk) and the root causes in a network of which cost influences are evaluated through the project-specific status evaluation checklists of design, manufacturing, construction and interfaces. This study overcame several limitations of the previous cost overrun risk assessment models: (1) few past research support assessment of cost overrun based on real-time project-owned data and (2) the traditional causal models inadequately depict interdependencies among influence factors of cost overrun at the network. The main influence factors of the cost overrun risk at the steel building projects in Taiwan were also examined using sensitivity analysis. The main root causes of cost overrun in steel building projects are design management and interface integration.

The proposed model belongs to the project-specific causal assessment model using real-time project-owned status checklist data as input. Such a model was seldom surveyed in the past due to the complicated interdependence among causes in the network. For practical use, a convenient and simple regression equation was also developed to forecast the cost overrun risk of the steel building project based on the root causes as input. Based on the analysis of cost overrun risk and significant influence factors, proper tailor-made preventive strategies are established to reduce the occurrence of cost overrun at the project.

]]>
Revolutionizing steel building project cost overrun risk assessment by Bayesian network10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0962Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-16© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSou-Sen LeuKuang-Jen HuangCathy Chang-Wei HungPei-Lin WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1610.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0962https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0962/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
How and when temporal leadership facilitates the success of sustainable construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0965/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestTemporal leadership is a new construct that predicts team outcomes. This study examines the mediating role of shared temporal cognitions and the moderating role of time pressure in the relationship between temporal leadership and project success within sustainable construction projects. The multi-source and multi-wave data were collected via self-administered questionnaires from teams working on sustainable construction projects. The direct and mediating hypotheses were tested using multi-level structural equation modelling, while moderated mediation hypotheses were examined by applying the bootstrap method using SPSS Process Macro. The results showed that temporal leadership enables project success via shared temporal cognitions. Temporal leadership is most beneficial for facilitating project success via shared temporal cognitions when teams experience high time pressure. This is the first study examining shared temporal cognitions as a mediator of the relationship between temporal leadership and project success. Also, this is the first study that considered time pressure as a boundary condition that influences the relationships between temporal leadership, shared temporal cognitions and project success within sustainable construction projects. The study provides valuable advice to project managers and project-based construction organizations about using and managing time within projects.How and when temporal leadership facilitates the success of sustainable construction projects
Ahmad Nabeel Siddiquei, Hassan Imam, Fahad Asmi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Temporal leadership is a new construct that predicts team outcomes. This study examines the mediating role of shared temporal cognitions and the moderating role of time pressure in the relationship between temporal leadership and project success within sustainable construction projects.

The multi-source and multi-wave data were collected via self-administered questionnaires from teams working on sustainable construction projects. The direct and mediating hypotheses were tested using multi-level structural equation modelling, while moderated mediation hypotheses were examined by applying the bootstrap method using SPSS Process Macro.

The results showed that temporal leadership enables project success via shared temporal cognitions. Temporal leadership is most beneficial for facilitating project success via shared temporal cognitions when teams experience high time pressure.

This is the first study examining shared temporal cognitions as a mediator of the relationship between temporal leadership and project success. Also, this is the first study that considered time pressure as a boundary condition that influences the relationships between temporal leadership, shared temporal cognitions and project success within sustainable construction projects. The study provides valuable advice to project managers and project-based construction organizations about using and managing time within projects.

]]>
How and when temporal leadership facilitates the success of sustainable construction projects10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0965Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAhmad Nabeel SiddiqueiHassan ImamFahad AsmiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-0710.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0965https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0965/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A regulatory framework for the use of small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs) in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0990/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWith the increasing use of small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs), many countries have enacted laws and regulations to ensure the safe use of SUAs. However, there is a lack of industry-specific regulations accounting for the unique features of construction-related SUA operations. Operating SUAs in the construction industry is attributed to specific risks and challenges, which should be regulated to maximize the utility of SUAs in construction. This study, therefore, aims to develop a multi-dimensional regulatory framework for using SUAs in the construction industry. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used to compare seven selected national/regional SUA regulations to identify the applicability of implementing the existing regulations in construction. The interview surveys were then conducted to diagnose the challenges of construction-related SUA operations and gather interviewees' suggestions on the regulatory framework for SUA uses in construction. The research found that some challenges of construction-related SUAs operations were not addressed in the current regulations. These challenges included the complex and time-consuming SUA operation permit, lack of regulation for special SUA operations in construction, insufficient regulatory compliance monitoring and a lack of construction-related remote pilots' training. A regulatory framework was then developed based on the findings of comparative analysis and interview surveys. This study mainly compared seven representative countries/regions' regulations, leading to a small sample size. Further research should be carried out to study the SUA regulations in other places, such as South Africa, South America or Middle East countries. Besides, this study's respondents to the interviews were primarily concentrated in Hong Kong, which may cause the interview results to differ from the construction industry in other countries/regions. A large-scale interview survey should be conducted in other places in the future to validate the current findings. The proposed regulatory framework provides a reference for the policy-makers to formulate appropriate industry-specific SUA regulations and improve the applicability of SUA regulations in the construction industry. It sheds light upon the future of SUA regulations and the development of regulatory practice in this area. This study is the first to propose a multi-dimensional regulatory framework for operating SUAs in construction by comprehensive policy comparisons and interviews. The regulatory framework offers a fresh insight into the unexplored research area and points out the direction for subsequent studies on SUA regulations in the construction industry.A regulatory framework for the use of small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs) in the construction industry
Xiaowei Wang, Yang Yang, Albert P.C. Chan, Hung-lin Chi, Esther H.K. Yung
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

With the increasing use of small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs), many countries have enacted laws and regulations to ensure the safe use of SUAs. However, there is a lack of industry-specific regulations accounting for the unique features of construction-related SUA operations. Operating SUAs in the construction industry is attributed to specific risks and challenges, which should be regulated to maximize the utility of SUAs in construction. This study, therefore, aims to develop a multi-dimensional regulatory framework for using SUAs in the construction industry.

A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used to compare seven selected national/regional SUA regulations to identify the applicability of implementing the existing regulations in construction. The interview surveys were then conducted to diagnose the challenges of construction-related SUA operations and gather interviewees' suggestions on the regulatory framework for SUA uses in construction.

The research found that some challenges of construction-related SUAs operations were not addressed in the current regulations. These challenges included the complex and time-consuming SUA operation permit, lack of regulation for special SUA operations in construction, insufficient regulatory compliance monitoring and a lack of construction-related remote pilots' training. A regulatory framework was then developed based on the findings of comparative analysis and interview surveys.

This study mainly compared seven representative countries/regions' regulations, leading to a small sample size. Further research should be carried out to study the SUA regulations in other places, such as South Africa, South America or Middle East countries. Besides, this study's respondents to the interviews were primarily concentrated in Hong Kong, which may cause the interview results to differ from the construction industry in other countries/regions. A large-scale interview survey should be conducted in other places in the future to validate the current findings.

The proposed regulatory framework provides a reference for the policy-makers to formulate appropriate industry-specific SUA regulations and improve the applicability of SUA regulations in the construction industry. It sheds light upon the future of SUA regulations and the development of regulatory practice in this area.

This study is the first to propose a multi-dimensional regulatory framework for operating SUAs in construction by comprehensive policy comparisons and interviews. The regulatory framework offers a fresh insight into the unexplored research area and points out the direction for subsequent studies on SUA regulations in the construction industry.

]]>
A regulatory framework for the use of small unmanned aircrafts (SUAs) in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0990Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaowei WangYang YangAlbert P.C. ChanHung-lin ChiEsther H.K. YungEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0990https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0990/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Differential relationships in the BIM implementation process in a developing country: the role of essential BIM implementation strategieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0999/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSome BIM implementation strategies are critical, while others are insignificant and ineffective in terms of lowering BIM adoption obstacles and promoting widespread acceptance of BIM in projects. The BIM literature has not provided evidence to support this claim or identify the fundamental BIM implementation strategies. This study filled this gap by identifying and investigating the effect of fundamental BIM implementation methodologies on the occurrence of proportional impacts between stages. The findings indicate a positive and crucial relationship between the stages of the BIM implementation strategies and the reduction of barriers (r = 1.79, z = 2.15), preliminary and sustained BIM adoption barriers (r = 1.53, z = 60.83), BIM adoption on projects and BIM-enabled integration and collaboration (r = 0.7, z = 2.74). This validates the model's hypotheses and demonstrates that the fundamental BIM implementation strategies will accelerate the reduction of BIM adoption hurdles. The impact, however, will be the same for both sustained and preliminary barriers. This implies that lowering the obstacles alone will not secure BIM adoption. The validation of the model's hypotheses demonstrated that the fundamental BIM implementation strategies will accelerate the reduction of BIM adoption hurdles. The impact, however, will be the same for both sustained and preliminary barriers. This implies that lowering BIM adoption obstacles alone will not secure BIM adoption. This study proposes that BIM deployment tactics be carefully chosen in order to remove preliminary impediments, reduce barriers and energise BIM acceptance. In line with the findings of this study, BIM adoption must be consistent and long-term before the benefits in project execution become evident and substantiated. The BIM abilities of project participants, the feasibility of BIM conventions and the proficiency of BIM supervisors may all play a role in this. This research implies a few approaches and tactics for implementing BIM in an efficient and beneficial manner. The study's findings imply that BIM deployment tactics should be carefully chosen in order to remove preliminary impediments, reduce barriers and energise BIM acceptance. It also explains how to structure BIM implementation strategies in developing countries. Another significant practical implication is the model's conclusion on the benefits of BIM adoption. This study emphasises the significance of understanding the interrelatedness between the stages of the BIM implementation process in order to promote unavoidable and high-quality BIM adoption, as well as identifying the essential strategies that will guide policymakers and industry players in improving and pursuing successful BIM implementation. This study adds to BIM implementation theories by providing new information on the models, stages and interconnections of the BIM implementation process. However, the study could not identify the factors that impede BIM adoption despite the reduction in barriers and use of fundamental BIM implementation strategies.Differential relationships in the BIM implementation process in a developing country: the role of essential BIM implementation strategies
Oluseye Olugboyega
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Some BIM implementation strategies are critical, while others are insignificant and ineffective in terms of lowering BIM adoption obstacles and promoting widespread acceptance of BIM in projects. The BIM literature has not provided evidence to support this claim or identify the fundamental BIM implementation strategies. This study filled this gap by identifying and investigating the effect of fundamental BIM implementation methodologies on the occurrence of proportional impacts between stages.

The findings indicate a positive and crucial relationship between the stages of the BIM implementation strategies and the reduction of barriers (r = 1.79, z = 2.15), preliminary and sustained BIM adoption barriers (r = 1.53, z = 60.83), BIM adoption on projects and BIM-enabled integration and collaboration (r = 0.7, z = 2.74). This validates the model's hypotheses and demonstrates that the fundamental BIM implementation strategies will accelerate the reduction of BIM adoption hurdles. The impact, however, will be the same for both sustained and preliminary barriers. This implies that lowering the obstacles alone will not secure BIM adoption.

The validation of the model's hypotheses demonstrated that the fundamental BIM implementation strategies will accelerate the reduction of BIM adoption hurdles. The impact, however, will be the same for both sustained and preliminary barriers. This implies that lowering BIM adoption obstacles alone will not secure BIM adoption. This study proposes that BIM deployment tactics be carefully chosen in order to remove preliminary impediments, reduce barriers and energise BIM acceptance.

In line with the findings of this study, BIM adoption must be consistent and long-term before the benefits in project execution become evident and substantiated. The BIM abilities of project participants, the feasibility of BIM conventions and the proficiency of BIM supervisors may all play a role in this.

This research implies a few approaches and tactics for implementing BIM in an efficient and beneficial manner. The study's findings imply that BIM deployment tactics should be carefully chosen in order to remove preliminary impediments, reduce barriers and energise BIM acceptance. It also explains how to structure BIM implementation strategies in developing countries. Another significant practical implication is the model's conclusion on the benefits of BIM adoption.

This study emphasises the significance of understanding the interrelatedness between the stages of the BIM implementation process in order to promote unavoidable and high-quality BIM adoption, as well as identifying the essential strategies that will guide policymakers and industry players in improving and pursuing successful BIM implementation. This study adds to BIM implementation theories by providing new information on the models, stages and interconnections of the BIM implementation process. However, the study could not identify the factors that impede BIM adoption despite the reduction in barriers and use of fundamental BIM implementation strategies.

]]>
Differential relationships in the BIM implementation process in a developing country: the role of essential BIM implementation strategies10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0999Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-24© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedOluseye OlugboyegaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2410.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0999https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-0999/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Bi-objective optimization framework for prefabricated construction service combination selection using genetic simulated annealing algorithmhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1000/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA) is employed to demonstrate the application of the framework. The weighted aggregate multi-dimensional collaborative relationship is used to quantitatively evaluate the synergistic effect. The quality of service is measured using the same method. The research proposed a service combination selection framework of prefabricated construction that comprehensively considers the quality of service and synergistic effect. The framework is demonstrated by using a GSA that can accept poor solutions with a certain probability. Furthermore, GSA is compared with the genetic algorithm (GA), simulated annealing algorithm (SA) and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) to validate the performance. The results indicated that GSA has the largest optimal fitness value and synergistic effect compared with other algorithms, and the convergence time and convergence iteration of the improved algorithm are generally at a low level. The contribution of this study is that the proposed framework enables project managers to clarify the interactions of the prefabricated construction process and provides guidance for project collaborative management. In addition, GSA helps to improve the probability of successful collaboration between potential partners, therefore enhancing client satisfaction.Bi-objective optimization framework for prefabricated construction service combination selection using genetic simulated annealing algorithm
Qiang Du, Xiaomin Qi, Patrick X.W. Zou, Yanmin Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The purpose of this paper is to develop a bi-objective optimization framework to select prefabricated construction service composition. An improved algorithm-genetic simulated annealing algorithm (GSA) is employed to demonstrate the application of the framework.

The weighted aggregate multi-dimensional collaborative relationship is used to quantitatively evaluate the synergistic effect. The quality of service is measured using the same method. The research proposed a service combination selection framework of prefabricated construction that comprehensively considers the quality of service and synergistic effect. The framework is demonstrated by using a GSA that can accept poor solutions with a certain probability. Furthermore, GSA is compared with the genetic algorithm (GA), simulated annealing algorithm (SA) and particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) to validate the performance.

The results indicated that GSA has the largest optimal fitness value and synergistic effect compared with other algorithms, and the convergence time and convergence iteration of the improved algorithm are generally at a low level.

The contribution of this study is that the proposed framework enables project managers to clarify the interactions of the prefabricated construction process and provides guidance for project collaborative management. In addition, GSA helps to improve the probability of successful collaboration between potential partners, therefore enhancing client satisfaction.

]]>
Bi-objective optimization framework for prefabricated construction service combination selection using genetic simulated annealing algorithm10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1000Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-03© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedQiang DuXiaomin QiPatrick X.W. ZouYanmin ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-0310.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1000https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1000/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Barriers to modular construction systems implementation in developing countries’ architecture, engineering and construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1001/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aimed to identify and assess the barriers to implementing modular construction systems (MCS) in developing country's architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, targeting built environment professionals from Nigeria and South Africa. The study adopted a quantitative research method, using a structured questionnaire to seek the opinions of the professionals on the identified categories of barriers. Results indicated that all identified categories of barriers were statistically significant using a one-sample t-test at p = 0.05 significance level which indicates they are critical towards the implementation of MCS in developing countries. Assessment of the opinion of the professionals using the Kruskal–Wallis scale showed that they hold similar views on the barriers to the adoption of MCS. Pearson correlation shows a high correlation coefficient amongst the barrier categories and an acceptable level of significance (p = 0.05). This study is limited to two significant African countries (Nigeria and South Africa) selected based on the gross domestic product (GDP). Further studies can consider developing countries outside Africa and investigate broader respondents. The study provides implications on the barriers affecting MCS in developing countries for the academia, industry and government to have an insight into the barriers and make informed decisions and policies. The research satisfies the need to study the barriers affecting the MCS in developing countries that can mitigate housing deficits. This innovative construction method has been adopted and implemented in developed countries, and the result has been positive.Barriers to modular construction systems implementation in developing countries’ architecture, engineering and construction industry
Abdulkabir Opeyemi Bello, Ayaz Ahmad Khan, Abdullahi Idris, Hamzat Mohammed Awwal
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aimed to identify and assess the barriers to implementing modular construction systems (MCS) in developing country's architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, targeting built environment professionals from Nigeria and South Africa.

The study adopted a quantitative research method, using a structured questionnaire to seek the opinions of the professionals on the identified categories of barriers.

Results indicated that all identified categories of barriers were statistically significant using a one-sample t-test at p = 0.05 significance level which indicates they are critical towards the implementation of MCS in developing countries. Assessment of the opinion of the professionals using the Kruskal–Wallis scale showed that they hold similar views on the barriers to the adoption of MCS. Pearson correlation shows a high correlation coefficient amongst the barrier categories and an acceptable level of significance (p = 0.05).

This study is limited to two significant African countries (Nigeria and South Africa) selected based on the gross domestic product (GDP). Further studies can consider developing countries outside Africa and investigate broader respondents.

The study provides implications on the barriers affecting MCS in developing countries for the academia, industry and government to have an insight into the barriers and make informed decisions and policies.

The research satisfies the need to study the barriers affecting the MCS in developing countries that can mitigate housing deficits. This innovative construction method has been adopted and implemented in developed countries, and the result has been positive.

]]>
Barriers to modular construction systems implementation in developing countries’ architecture, engineering and construction industry10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1001Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-10© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAbdulkabir Opeyemi BelloAyaz Ahmad KhanAbdullahi IdrisHamzat Mohammed AwwalEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-1010.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1001https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1001/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Peer effects of internationalization for engineering news-record contractors: evidence from Chinese contractorshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1002/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study explores whether the peer effects of internationalization exist within the subdivision industry of enterprises in the engineering field and assesses the imitation paths for the peer engineering enterprises within the industry when implementing internationalization strategies under the peer effects. This study collected secondary and objective data on 38 Chinese engineering enterprises from the Engineering News-Record's list of the top 250 international contractors between 2013 and 2021. It employed a regression analysis to test the research hypotheses. The findings reveal that in the process of internationalization: (1) peer effects exist within the subdivision industry of internationalization of engineering enterprises; (2) engineering enterprises within the same industry and region imitate each other; (3) non-state-owned engineering enterprises imitate state-owned engineering enterprises within the same industry; and (4) in the industry follower–leader imitation process, industry followers imitate leaders according to enterprise size and return on assets. The results contribute to a better understanding of how peer effects influence engineering enterprises' internationalization process. This study also proposes imitation paths based on the law of imitation to provide recommendations for engineering enterprises' better development in the international market.Peer effects of internationalization for engineering news-record contractors: evidence from Chinese contractors
Yanliang Niu, Renjie Zhang, Guangdong Wu, Qianwen Zhou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study explores whether the peer effects of internationalization exist within the subdivision industry of enterprises in the engineering field and assesses the imitation paths for the peer engineering enterprises within the industry when implementing internationalization strategies under the peer effects.

This study collected secondary and objective data on 38 Chinese engineering enterprises from the Engineering News-Record's list of the top 250 international contractors between 2013 and 2021. It employed a regression analysis to test the research hypotheses.

The findings reveal that in the process of internationalization: (1) peer effects exist within the subdivision industry of internationalization of engineering enterprises; (2) engineering enterprises within the same industry and region imitate each other; (3) non-state-owned engineering enterprises imitate state-owned engineering enterprises within the same industry; and (4) in the industry follower–leader imitation process, industry followers imitate leaders according to enterprise size and return on assets.

The results contribute to a better understanding of how peer effects influence engineering enterprises' internationalization process. This study also proposes imitation paths based on the law of imitation to provide recommendations for engineering enterprises' better development in the international market.

]]>
Peer effects of internationalization for engineering news-record contractors: evidence from Chinese contractors10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1002Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYanliang NiuRenjie ZhangGuangdong WuQianwen ZhouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2610.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1002https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1002/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Toward ecological environmental risk for spoil ground group management in mega projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1003/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe numerous spoil grounds brought about by mega transportation infrastructure projects which can be influenced by the ecological environment. To achieve better management of spoil grounds, this paper aims to assess their comprehensive risk levels and categorize them into different categories based on ecological environmental risks. Based on analysis of the environmental characteristics of spoil grounds, this paper first comprehensively identified the ecological environmental risk factors and developed a risk assessment index system to quantitatively describe the comprehensive risk levels. Second, this paper proposed a comprehensive model to determine the risk assessment and categorization of spoil ground group in mega projects integrating improved projection pursuit clustering (PPC) method and K-means clustering algorithm. Finally, a case study of a spoil ground group (includes 50 spoil grounds) in a mega infrastructure project in western China is presented to demonstrate and validate the proposed method. The results show that our proposed comprehensive model can efficiently assess and categorize the spoil grounds in the group based on their comprehensive ecological environmental risk. In addition, during the process of risk assessment and categorization of spoil grounds, it is necessary to distinguish between sensitive factors and nonsensitive factors. The differences between different categories of spoil grounds can be recognized based on nonsensitive factors, and high-risk spoil grounds which need to be focused more on can be identified according to sensitive factors. This paper develops a comprehensive model of risk assessment and categorization of a group of spoil grounds based on their ecological environmental risks, which can provide a reference for the management of spoil grounds in mega projects.Toward ecological environmental risk for spoil ground group management in mega projects
Yulong Li, Ziwen Yao, Jing Wu, Saixing Zeng, Guobin Wu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The numerous spoil grounds brought about by mega transportation infrastructure projects which can be influenced by the ecological environment. To achieve better management of spoil grounds, this paper aims to assess their comprehensive risk levels and categorize them into different categories based on ecological environmental risks.

Based on analysis of the environmental characteristics of spoil grounds, this paper first comprehensively identified the ecological environmental risk factors and developed a risk assessment index system to quantitatively describe the comprehensive risk levels. Second, this paper proposed a comprehensive model to determine the risk assessment and categorization of spoil ground group in mega projects integrating improved projection pursuit clustering (PPC) method and K-means clustering algorithm. Finally, a case study of a spoil ground group (includes 50 spoil grounds) in a mega infrastructure project in western China is presented to demonstrate and validate the proposed method.

The results show that our proposed comprehensive model can efficiently assess and categorize the spoil grounds in the group based on their comprehensive ecological environmental risk. In addition, during the process of risk assessment and categorization of spoil grounds, it is necessary to distinguish between sensitive factors and nonsensitive factors. The differences between different categories of spoil grounds can be recognized based on nonsensitive factors, and high-risk spoil grounds which need to be focused more on can be identified according to sensitive factors.

This paper develops a comprehensive model of risk assessment and categorization of a group of spoil grounds based on their ecological environmental risks, which can provide a reference for the management of spoil grounds in mega projects.

]]>
Toward ecological environmental risk for spoil ground group management in mega projects10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1003Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYulong LiZiwen YaoJing WuSaixing ZengGuobin WuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1910.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1003https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1003/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Optimizing collaborative decision-making of multi-agent resources for large-scale projects: from a matching perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1008/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn recent decades, infrastructure has continued to develop as an important basis for social development and people's lives. Resource management of these large-scale projects has been immensely concerned because dozens of construction enterprises (CEs) often work together. In this situation, resource collaboration among enterprises has become a key measure to ensure project implementation. Thus, this study aims to propose a systematic multi-agent resource collaborative decision-making optimization model for large projects from a matching perspective. The main contribution of this work was an advancement of the current research by: (1) generalizing the resource matching decision-making problem and quantifying the relationship between CEs. (2) Based on the matching domain, the resource input costs and benefits of each enterprise in the associated group were comprehensively analyzed to build the mathematical model, which also incorporated prospect theory to map more realistic decisions. (3) According to the influencing factors of resource decision-making, such as cost, benefit and attitude of decision-makers, determined the optimal resource input in different situations. Numerical experiments were used to verify the effectiveness of the multi-agent resource matching decision (MARMD) method in this study. The results indicated that this model could provide guidance for optimal decision-making for each participating enterprise in the resource association group under different situations. And the results showed the psychological preference of decision-makers has an important influence on decision performance. While the MARMD method has been proposed in this research, MARMD still has many limitations. A more detailed matching relationship between different resource types in CEs is still not fully analyzed, and relevant studies about more accurate parameters of decision-makers’ psychological preferences should be conducted in this area in the future. Compared with traditional projects, large-scale engineering construction has the characteristics of huge resource consumption and more participants. While decision-makers can determine the matching relationship between related enterprises, this is ambiguous and the wider range will vary with more participants or complex environment. The MARMD method provided in this paper is an effective methodological tool with clearer decision-making positioning and stronger actual operability, which could provide references for large-scale project resource management. Large-scale engineering is complex infrastructure projects that ensure national security, increase economic development, improve people's lives and promote social progress. During the implementation of large-scale projects, CEs realize value-added through resource exchange and integration. Studying the optimal collaborative decision of multi-agent resources from a matching perspective can realize the improvement of resource transformation efficiency and promote the development of large-scale engineering projects. The current research on engineering resources decision-making lacks a matching relationship, which leads to unclear decision objectives, ambiguous decision processes and poor operability decision methods. To solve these issues, a novel approach was proposed to reveal the decision mechanism of multi-agent resource optimization in large-scale projects. This paper could bring inspiration to the research of large-scale project resource management.Optimizing collaborative decision-making of multi-agent resources for large-scale projects: from a matching perspective
Ning Huang, Qiang Du, Libiao Bai, Qian Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In recent decades, infrastructure has continued to develop as an important basis for social development and people's lives. Resource management of these large-scale projects has been immensely concerned because dozens of construction enterprises (CEs) often work together. In this situation, resource collaboration among enterprises has become a key measure to ensure project implementation. Thus, this study aims to propose a systematic multi-agent resource collaborative decision-making optimization model for large projects from a matching perspective.

The main contribution of this work was an advancement of the current research by: (1) generalizing the resource matching decision-making problem and quantifying the relationship between CEs. (2) Based on the matching domain, the resource input costs and benefits of each enterprise in the associated group were comprehensively analyzed to build the mathematical model, which also incorporated prospect theory to map more realistic decisions. (3) According to the influencing factors of resource decision-making, such as cost, benefit and attitude of decision-makers, determined the optimal resource input in different situations.

Numerical experiments were used to verify the effectiveness of the multi-agent resource matching decision (MARMD) method in this study. The results indicated that this model could provide guidance for optimal decision-making for each participating enterprise in the resource association group under different situations. And the results showed the psychological preference of decision-makers has an important influence on decision performance.

While the MARMD method has been proposed in this research, MARMD still has many limitations. A more detailed matching relationship between different resource types in CEs is still not fully analyzed, and relevant studies about more accurate parameters of decision-makers’ psychological preferences should be conducted in this area in the future.

Compared with traditional projects, large-scale engineering construction has the characteristics of huge resource consumption and more participants. While decision-makers can determine the matching relationship between related enterprises, this is ambiguous and the wider range will vary with more participants or complex environment. The MARMD method provided in this paper is an effective methodological tool with clearer decision-making positioning and stronger actual operability, which could provide references for large-scale project resource management.

Large-scale engineering is complex infrastructure projects that ensure national security, increase economic development, improve people's lives and promote social progress. During the implementation of large-scale projects, CEs realize value-added through resource exchange and integration. Studying the optimal collaborative decision of multi-agent resources from a matching perspective can realize the improvement of resource transformation efficiency and promote the development of large-scale engineering projects.

The current research on engineering resources decision-making lacks a matching relationship, which leads to unclear decision objectives, ambiguous decision processes and poor operability decision methods. To solve these issues, a novel approach was proposed to reveal the decision mechanism of multi-agent resource optimization in large-scale projects. This paper could bring inspiration to the research of large-scale project resource management.

]]>
Optimizing collaborative decision-making of multi-agent resources for large-scale projects: from a matching perspective10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1008Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNing HuangQiang DuLibiao BaiQian ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2710.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1008https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1008/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Benefits, constraints and enablers of modular offsite construction (MOSC) in New Zealand high-rise buildingshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1020/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe ascendancy of modular offsite construction (MOSC) over traditional construction methods is well known. Despite the known potential of this construction approach, its adoption is minimal in New Zealand construction industry. This article investigates the potential benefits of using MOSC for delivery of high-rise buildings in New Zealand, underlying factors responsible for its low uptake and the measures that can facilitate its improved uptake. This study utilised a mixed research approach. An empirical questionnaire survey was carried out with New Zealand construction industry professionals with expertise in MOSC. Factor analysis of survey data was carried out using SPSS software. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with subject matter experts to get further insights and expand the survey findings. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. Study identified benefits of MOSC, thus establishing potential of its uptake for high-rise building construction. Constraining factors were investigated, most pronounced being low level of skills in construction industry to design, manufacture and integrate supply chain of MOSC, high initial investment, high cost of importing modules and negative perception about offsite manufactured buildings. This study also highlighted the enablers to improve uptake of MOSC. These enablers included; loan and mortgage policies to suit MOSC paradigm, building regulations to support OSC industry, increased support from the government and awareness and acceptance of standardised building designs among the clients. Originality of this paper harps from little to no research carried out to investigate use of MOSC for high-rise buildings in New Zealand context.Benefits, constraints and enablers of modular offsite construction (MOSC) in New Zealand high-rise buildings
Wajiha Mohsin Shahzad, Siddenki Mahender Reddy, Ravindu Kahandawa, James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The ascendancy of modular offsite construction (MOSC) over traditional construction methods is well known. Despite the known potential of this construction approach, its adoption is minimal in New Zealand construction industry. This article investigates the potential benefits of using MOSC for delivery of high-rise buildings in New Zealand, underlying factors responsible for its low uptake and the measures that can facilitate its improved uptake.

This study utilised a mixed research approach. An empirical questionnaire survey was carried out with New Zealand construction industry professionals with expertise in MOSC. Factor analysis of survey data was carried out using SPSS software. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with subject matter experts to get further insights and expand the survey findings. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Study identified benefits of MOSC, thus establishing potential of its uptake for high-rise building construction. Constraining factors were investigated, most pronounced being low level of skills in construction industry to design, manufacture and integrate supply chain of MOSC, high initial investment, high cost of importing modules and negative perception about offsite manufactured buildings. This study also highlighted the enablers to improve uptake of MOSC. These enablers included; loan and mortgage policies to suit MOSC paradigm, building regulations to support OSC industry, increased support from the government and awareness and acceptance of standardised building designs among the clients.

Originality of this paper harps from little to no research carried out to investigate use of MOSC for high-rise buildings in New Zealand context.

]]>
Benefits, constraints and enablers of modular offsite construction (MOSC) in New Zealand high-rise buildings10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1020Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWajiha Mohsin ShahzadSiddenki Mahender ReddyRavindu KahandawaJames Olabode Bamidele RotimiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1810.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1020https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1020/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Study on dissipative structure of mega railway infrastructure project management systemhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1021/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe mega railway infrastructure projects are faced with complex environments and multi-level management challenges. Thus, the mega railway infrastructure project management system not only needs to focus on its composition, but also needs to consider changes and impacts of internal and external environment. This study attempts to introduce the concept of dissipative structure from the perspective of complexity theory and constructs a positive entropy and negentropy flow index system for mega railway infrastructure project management system in order to analyze the factors of management system more deeply. The Brusselator model is used to construct the structure of the mega railway infrastructure project management system, and the entropy method is used to calculate the positive entropy and negentropy values to verify whether the management system is a dissipative structure. A plateau railway project in China was used as an example for an empirical study, not only its own characteristics are analyzed, but also the role of constraints and facilitation of the internal and external environment. Based on the research results, several effective suggestions are put forward to improve the stability and work efficiency of mega railway infrastructure project management system. This study demonstrates that mega railway infrastructure project management system has the characteristics of dissipative structure. It can provide theoretical support for the development of mega railway infrastructure project management system from disorderly state to orderly state.Study on dissipative structure of mega railway infrastructure project management system
Kai Liu, Yuming Liu, Yuanyuan Kou, Xiaoxu Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The mega railway infrastructure projects are faced with complex environments and multi-level management challenges. Thus, the mega railway infrastructure project management system not only needs to focus on its composition, but also needs to consider changes and impacts of internal and external environment.

This study attempts to introduce the concept of dissipative structure from the perspective of complexity theory and constructs a positive entropy and negentropy flow index system for mega railway infrastructure project management system in order to analyze the factors of management system more deeply. The Brusselator model is used to construct the structure of the mega railway infrastructure project management system, and the entropy method is used to calculate the positive entropy and negentropy values to verify whether the management system is a dissipative structure.

A plateau railway project in China was used as an example for an empirical study, not only its own characteristics are analyzed, but also the role of constraints and facilitation of the internal and external environment. Based on the research results, several effective suggestions are put forward to improve the stability and work efficiency of mega railway infrastructure project management system.

This study demonstrates that mega railway infrastructure project management system has the characteristics of dissipative structure. It can provide theoretical support for the development of mega railway infrastructure project management system from disorderly state to orderly state.

]]>
Study on dissipative structure of mega railway infrastructure project management system10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1021Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedKai LiuYuming LiuYuanyuan KouXiaoxu YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1310.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1021https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1021/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Dynamic approach for investigating delivery system effects on infrastructure project performancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInnovative design and execution approaches are employed in infrastructure sectors and planning to enhance the integrated project delivery system, assure the sustainability of infrastructure projects, and meet the demands of the dynamic, changing environment. Delivery methods must incorporate new technologies. By combining digital technology, teamwork, and mass manufacturing, a greater degree of exceptional quality, sustainability, and resilience in the environment will be generated. As a result, a new approach does not rely on the reaction policy, but instead considers alternative scenarios and employs a simulation model to determine the best course of action. In the paper, the system dynamics approach to construction management is validated in light of pertinent research. Additionally, it describes the difficulties facing the infrastructure projects' delivery system. Additionally, the strategy for system dynamics creation is described. This strategy includes a causal loop diagram, generates a stock-flow diagram, and simulates forecasts of model behavior over time. Next, the optimization model's validation process is used to create a system dynamics model for choosing the best infrastructure project delivery system project and controlling it to maximize sustainability, mass production, digital integration, and team integration. The dynamic complexity of project management is growing. The primary goal is to present a system dynamics (SD) simulation to look at how well infrastructure projects perform in terms of choosing the best method for delivering infrastructure projects. One of the most ideal methods for delivering projects is integrated project delivery. An effective methodology for making strategic decisions on the choice of the best project delivery method. In order to enhance certain infrastructure project delivery system metrics for sustainability, mass production, digital integration, and team integration, the model included building strategy and sophisticated system dynamics simulation. According to the construction strategy, the outcomes have been satisfactory. System dynamics research has been done to replicate the idea of contemporary construction in order to determine the best approach for delivering infrastructure. The government and decision-makers would benefit from understanding this research as they decide on the best delivery method for boosting the sustainability and productivity of infrastructure projects in Egypt.Dynamic approach for investigating delivery system effects on infrastructure project performance
Ahmed Nouh, Elsayed Elkasaby, Omnia Wageh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Innovative design and execution approaches are employed in infrastructure sectors and planning to enhance the integrated project delivery system, assure the sustainability of infrastructure projects, and meet the demands of the dynamic, changing environment. Delivery methods must incorporate new technologies. By combining digital technology, teamwork, and mass manufacturing, a greater degree of exceptional quality, sustainability, and resilience in the environment will be generated. As a result, a new approach does not rely on the reaction policy, but instead considers alternative scenarios and employs a simulation model to determine the best course of action.

In the paper, the system dynamics approach to construction management is validated in light of pertinent research. Additionally, it describes the difficulties facing the infrastructure projects' delivery system. Additionally, the strategy for system dynamics creation is described. This strategy includes a causal loop diagram, generates a stock-flow diagram, and simulates forecasts of model behavior over time. Next, the optimization model's validation process is used to create a system dynamics model for choosing the best infrastructure project delivery system project and controlling it to maximize sustainability, mass production, digital integration, and team integration. The dynamic complexity of project management is growing.

The primary goal is to present a system dynamics (SD) simulation to look at how well infrastructure projects perform in terms of choosing the best method for delivering infrastructure projects. One of the most ideal methods for delivering projects is integrated project delivery. An effective methodology for making strategic decisions on the choice of the best project delivery method. In order to enhance certain infrastructure project delivery system metrics for sustainability, mass production, digital integration, and team integration, the model included building strategy and sophisticated system dynamics simulation. According to the construction strategy, the outcomes have been satisfactory.

System dynamics research has been done to replicate the idea of contemporary construction in order to determine the best approach for delivering infrastructure. The government and decision-makers would benefit from understanding this research as they decide on the best delivery method for boosting the sustainability and productivity of infrastructure projects in Egypt.

]]>
Dynamic approach for investigating delivery system effects on infrastructure project performance10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1022Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedAhmed NouhElsayed ElkasabyOmnia WagehEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1510.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1022https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2022-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Anticorruption practices in construction projects: looking through two theoretical lenseshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-0988/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAvailable studies on anticorruption practices in the construction industry are exploratory with a very limited theoretical basis. This paper aims to provide a solid theoretical foundation to examine situational factors that influence the corruption intentions of individuals and organizations in the construction industry. This paper conducts a systematic literature review to synthesize construction management literature that suggests anticorruption practices. The identified practices are then examined using two theoretical frameworks: the fraud diamond theory and Lange’s corruption control framework. The results of this research demonstrate how the four elements of the fraud diamond theory may trigger corrupt behavior in construction projects. The results also highlight conceptual distinctions among different means of corruption controls based on Lange’s corruption control framework. In addition, the findings of this research suggest that anticorruption practices should address (1) the incentives to act corruptly, (2) the normative means of corruption control, (3) the internal means of preventing corruption and (4) the shift in organizational culture. This paper departs from prior research on corruption in construction projects by (1) identifying a large spectrum of anticorruption practices, (2) presenting a detailed theoretical interpretation of these practices and (3) viewing anticorruption practices as multidimensional constructs, which, in turn, leads to novel ways of examining these practices in construction projects.Anticorruption practices in construction projects: looking through two theoretical lenses
Seyed Ashkan Zarghami
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Available studies on anticorruption practices in the construction industry are exploratory with a very limited theoretical basis. This paper aims to provide a solid theoretical foundation to examine situational factors that influence the corruption intentions of individuals and organizations in the construction industry.

This paper conducts a systematic literature review to synthesize construction management literature that suggests anticorruption practices. The identified practices are then examined using two theoretical frameworks: the fraud diamond theory and Lange’s corruption control framework.

The results of this research demonstrate how the four elements of the fraud diamond theory may trigger corrupt behavior in construction projects. The results also highlight conceptual distinctions among different means of corruption controls based on Lange’s corruption control framework. In addition, the findings of this research suggest that anticorruption practices should address (1) the incentives to act corruptly, (2) the normative means of corruption control, (3) the internal means of preventing corruption and (4) the shift in organizational culture.

This paper departs from prior research on corruption in construction projects by (1) identifying a large spectrum of anticorruption practices, (2) presenting a detailed theoretical interpretation of these practices and (3) viewing anticorruption practices as multidimensional constructs, which, in turn, leads to novel ways of examining these practices in construction projects.

]]>
Anticorruption practices in construction projects: looking through two theoretical lenses10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-0988Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-01© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedSeyed Ashkan ZarghamiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0110.1108/ECAM-10-2023-0988https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-0988/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A comprehensive review of delay analysis techniques for solving concurrent delayshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction projects commonly encounter complicated delay problems. Over the past few decades, numerous delay analysis methods (DAMs) have been developed. There is no consensus on whether existing DAMs effectively resolve delays, particularly in the case of complex concurrent delays. Thus, the primary objective of this study is to undertake a comprehensive and systematic literature review on concurrent delays, aiming to answer the following research question: Do existing delay analysis techniques deal with concurrent delays well? This study conducts a comprehensive review of concurrent delays by both bibliometric and systematic analysis of research publications published between 1982 and 2022 in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. For quantitative analysis, a bibliometric mapping tool, the VOSviewer, was employed to analyze 68 selected publications to explore the co-occurrence of keywords, co-authorship and direct citation. Additionally, we conducted a qualitative analysis to answer the targeted research question, identify academic knowledge gaps and explore potential research directions for solving the theoretical and practical problems of concurrent delays. Concurrent delays are a critical aspect of delay claims. Despite DAMs developed by a limited number of research teams to tackle issues like concurrence, float consumption and the critical path in concurrent delay resolution, practitioners continue to face significant challenges. This study has successfully identified knowledge gaps in defining, identifying, analyzing and allocating liability for concurrent delays while offering promising directions for further research. These findings reveal the incompleteness of available DAMs for solving concurrent delays. The outcomes of this study are highly beneficial for practitioners and researchers. For practitioners, the discussions on the resolution process of concurrent delays in terms of identification, analysis and apportionment enable them to proactively address concurrent delays and lay the groundwork for preventing and resolving such issues in their construction projects. For researchers, five research directions, including advanced DAMs capable of solving concurrent delays, are proposed for reference. Existing research on DAMs lacks comprehensive coverage of concurrent delays. Through a scientometric review, it is evident that current DAMs do not deal with concurrent delays well. This review identifies critical knowledge gaps and offers insights into potential directions for future research.A comprehensive review of delay analysis techniques for solving concurrent delays
Huy Minh Vo, Jyh-Bin Yang, Veerakumar Rangasamy
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction projects commonly encounter complicated delay problems. Over the past few decades, numerous delay analysis methods (DAMs) have been developed. There is no consensus on whether existing DAMs effectively resolve delays, particularly in the case of complex concurrent delays. Thus, the primary objective of this study is to undertake a comprehensive and systematic literature review on concurrent delays, aiming to answer the following research question: Do existing delay analysis techniques deal with concurrent delays well?

This study conducts a comprehensive review of concurrent delays by both bibliometric and systematic analysis of research publications published between 1982 and 2022 in the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. For quantitative analysis, a bibliometric mapping tool, the VOSviewer, was employed to analyze 68 selected publications to explore the co-occurrence of keywords, co-authorship and direct citation. Additionally, we conducted a qualitative analysis to answer the targeted research question, identify academic knowledge gaps and explore potential research directions for solving the theoretical and practical problems of concurrent delays.

Concurrent delays are a critical aspect of delay claims. Despite DAMs developed by a limited number of research teams to tackle issues like concurrence, float consumption and the critical path in concurrent delay resolution, practitioners continue to face significant challenges. This study has successfully identified knowledge gaps in defining, identifying, analyzing and allocating liability for concurrent delays while offering promising directions for further research. These findings reveal the incompleteness of available DAMs for solving concurrent delays.

The outcomes of this study are highly beneficial for practitioners and researchers. For practitioners, the discussions on the resolution process of concurrent delays in terms of identification, analysis and apportionment enable them to proactively address concurrent delays and lay the groundwork for preventing and resolving such issues in their construction projects. For researchers, five research directions, including advanced DAMs capable of solving concurrent delays, are proposed for reference.

Existing research on DAMs lacks comprehensive coverage of concurrent delays. Through a scientometric review, it is evident that current DAMs do not deal with concurrent delays well. This review identifies critical knowledge gaps and offers insights into potential directions for future research.

]]>
A comprehensive review of delay analysis techniques for solving concurrent delays10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1022Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-20© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedHuy Minh VoJyh-Bin YangVeerakumar RangasamyEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2010.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1022https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Automated compliance checking for BIM models based on Chinese-NLP and knowledge graph: an integrative conceptual frameworkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1037/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe compliance checking of Building Information Modeling (BIM) models is crucial throughout the lifecycle of construction. The increasing amount and complexity of information carried by BIM models have made compliance checking more challenging, and manual methods are prone to errors. Therefore, this study aims to propose an integrative conceptual framework for automated compliance checking of BIM models, allowing for the identification of errors within BIM models. This study first analyzed the typical building standards in the field of architecture and fire protection, and then the ontology of these elements is developed. Based on this, a building standard corpus is built, and deep learning models are trained to automatically label the building standard texts. The Neo4j is utilized for knowledge graph construction and storage, and a data extraction method based on the Dynamo is designed to obtain checking data files. After that, a matching algorithm is devised to express the logical rules of knowledge graph triples, resulting in automated compliance checking for BIM models. Case validation results showed that this theoretical framework can achieve the automatic construction of domain knowledge graphs and automatic checking of BIM model compliance. Compared with traditional methods, this method has a higher degree of automation and portability. This study introduces knowledge graphs and natural language processing technology into the field of BIM model checking and completes the automated process of constructing domain knowledge graphs and checking BIM model data. The validation of its functionality and usability through two case studies on a self-developed BIM checking platform.Automated compliance checking for BIM models based on Chinese-NLP and knowledge graph: an integrative conceptual framework
Sihao Li, Jiali Wang, Zhao Xu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The compliance checking of Building Information Modeling (BIM) models is crucial throughout the lifecycle of construction. The increasing amount and complexity of information carried by BIM models have made compliance checking more challenging, and manual methods are prone to errors. Therefore, this study aims to propose an integrative conceptual framework for automated compliance checking of BIM models, allowing for the identification of errors within BIM models.

This study first analyzed the typical building standards in the field of architecture and fire protection, and then the ontology of these elements is developed. Based on this, a building standard corpus is built, and deep learning models are trained to automatically label the building standard texts. The Neo4j is utilized for knowledge graph construction and storage, and a data extraction method based on the Dynamo is designed to obtain checking data files. After that, a matching algorithm is devised to express the logical rules of knowledge graph triples, resulting in automated compliance checking for BIM models.

Case validation results showed that this theoretical framework can achieve the automatic construction of domain knowledge graphs and automatic checking of BIM model compliance. Compared with traditional methods, this method has a higher degree of automation and portability.

This study introduces knowledge graphs and natural language processing technology into the field of BIM model checking and completes the automated process of constructing domain knowledge graphs and checking BIM model data. The validation of its functionality and usability through two case studies on a self-developed BIM checking platform.

]]>
Automated compliance checking for BIM models based on Chinese-NLP and knowledge graph: an integrative conceptual framework10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1037Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-29© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedSihao LiJiali WangZhao XuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2910.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1037https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1037/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Managerial framework for quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during pandemic and post-pandemic: lessons from COVID-19 in the world’s factoryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1050/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWhile the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, it is still unclear from prior studies about adequately positioning the quality assurance (QA) for the post-pandemic era and future pandemics, especially cross-border construction logistics and supply chain (Cb-CLSC). Thus, this study aims to develop a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully. This is achieved pragmatically through an embedded mixed-method design involving a literature review, survey and interview from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory. The design is further integrated with the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach. The study revealed 10 critical managerial practices (MPs) to position the QA to be adequate for the post-pandemic and during future pandemics, with the top three including “strict observance of government regulations (MP1)”, “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)” and “modification of contract to cater for uncertainties (MP4)”. This attained a relatively good percentage agreement of 53% between the industry and academia. However, the top four MPs regarded as very effective include “implementing digital collaborative inspections with subcontractors and trades (MP8)”, “implementing a digital centralized document and issue management system (MP7)”, “strict observance to government regulations, including vaccination of workers, social distancing, use of prescribed nose masks, etc. (MP1)” and “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)”. Two underlying components of the MPs were revealed as policy-process (PP)-related practices and people-technology-process (PTP)-related practices, and these can be modelled into a managerial framework capable of effectively positioning the QA to be adequate during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era. The findings of this study depicted significant theoretical and practical contributions to the proactive management of QA activities during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era. It could empower organisations to pay attention to smartly and innovatively balancing people, processes, pandemic policy and technology to inform decisions to effectively position the QA for the post-pandemic era and survive the risks of future pandemics. The study contributes to the body of knowledge in that it develops a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully. It is original research with invaluable primary data in the form of surveys and interviews from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory.Managerial framework for quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during pandemic and post-pandemic: lessons from COVID-19 in the world’s factory
Frank Ato Ghansah, Weisheng Lu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

While the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, it is still unclear from prior studies about adequately positioning the quality assurance (QA) for the post-pandemic era and future pandemics, especially cross-border construction logistics and supply chain (Cb-CLSC). Thus, this study aims to develop a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully.

This is achieved pragmatically through an embedded mixed-method design involving a literature review, survey and interview from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory. The design is further integrated with the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach.

The study revealed 10 critical managerial practices (MPs) to position the QA to be adequate for the post-pandemic and during future pandemics, with the top three including “strict observance of government regulations (MP1)”, “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)” and “modification of contract to cater for uncertainties (MP4)”. This attained a relatively good percentage agreement of 53% between the industry and academia. However, the top four MPs regarded as very effective include “implementing digital collaborative inspections with subcontractors and trades (MP8)”, “implementing a digital centralized document and issue management system (MP7)”, “strict observance to government regulations, including vaccination of workers, social distancing, use of prescribed nose masks, etc. (MP1)” and “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)”. Two underlying components of the MPs were revealed as policy-process (PP)-related practices and people-technology-process (PTP)-related practices, and these can be modelled into a managerial framework capable of effectively positioning the QA to be adequate during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era.

The findings of this study depicted significant theoretical and practical contributions to the proactive management of QA activities during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era. It could empower organisations to pay attention to smartly and innovatively balancing people, processes, pandemic policy and technology to inform decisions to effectively position the QA for the post-pandemic era and survive the risks of future pandemics.

The study contributes to the body of knowledge in that it develops a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully. It is original research with invaluable primary data in the form of surveys and interviews from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory.

]]>
Managerial framework for quality assurance of cross-border construction logistics and supply chain during pandemic and post-pandemic: lessons from COVID-19 in the world’s factory10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1050Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-30© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedFrank Ato GhansahWeisheng LuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-3010.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1050https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1050/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Key performance indicators for hospital planning and construction: a systematic review and meta-analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1060/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe successful implementation of hospital projects (HPs) tends to confront sundry challenges in the planning and construction (P&C) phases due to their complexity and particularity. Employing key performance indicators (KPIs) facilitates the monitoring of HPs to advance their successful delivery. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the KPIs for hospital planning and construction (HPC). The KPIs for HPC were identified through a systematic review. Then a comprehensive assessment of these KPIs was performed utilizing a meta-analysis method. In this process, basic statistical analysis, subgroup analysis, sensitive analysis and publication bias analysis were performed. Results indicate that all 27 KPIs identified from the literature are significant for executing HPs in P&C phases. Also, some unconventional performance indicators are crucial for implementing HPs, such as “Project monitoring effectiveness” and “Industry innovation and synergy,” as their high significance is reflected in this study. Despite the fact that the findings of meta-analysis are more trustworthy than those of individual studies, a high heterogeneity still exists in the findings. It highlights the inherent uncertainty in the construction industry. Hence, this study applied subgroup analysis to explore the underlying factors causing the high level of heterogeneity and used sensitive analysis to assess the robustness of the findings. There is no consensus among the prior studies on KPIs for HPC specifically and their degree of significance. Additionally, few reviews in this field have focused on the reliability of the results. This study comprehensively assesses the KPIs for HPC and explores the variability and robustness of the results, which provides a multi-dimensional perspective for practitioners and the research community to investigate the performance of HPs during the P&C stages.Key performance indicators for hospital planning and construction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Wenque Liu, Albert P.C. Chan, Man Wai Chan, Amos Darko, Goodenough D. Oppong
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The successful implementation of hospital projects (HPs) tends to confront sundry challenges in the planning and construction (P&C) phases due to their complexity and particularity. Employing key performance indicators (KPIs) facilitates the monitoring of HPs to advance their successful delivery. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the KPIs for hospital planning and construction (HPC).

The KPIs for HPC were identified through a systematic review. Then a comprehensive assessment of these KPIs was performed utilizing a meta-analysis method. In this process, basic statistical analysis, subgroup analysis, sensitive analysis and publication bias analysis were performed.

Results indicate that all 27 KPIs identified from the literature are significant for executing HPs in P&C phases. Also, some unconventional performance indicators are crucial for implementing HPs, such as “Project monitoring effectiveness” and “Industry innovation and synergy,” as their high significance is reflected in this study. Despite the fact that the findings of meta-analysis are more trustworthy than those of individual studies, a high heterogeneity still exists in the findings. It highlights the inherent uncertainty in the construction industry. Hence, this study applied subgroup analysis to explore the underlying factors causing the high level of heterogeneity and used sensitive analysis to assess the robustness of the findings.

There is no consensus among the prior studies on KPIs for HPC specifically and their degree of significance. Additionally, few reviews in this field have focused on the reliability of the results. This study comprehensively assesses the KPIs for HPC and explores the variability and robustness of the results, which provides a multi-dimensional perspective for practitioners and the research community to investigate the performance of HPs during the P&C stages.

]]>
Key performance indicators for hospital planning and construction: a systematic review and meta-analysis10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1060Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-29© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedWenque LiuAlbert P.C. ChanMan Wai ChanAmos DarkoGoodenough D. OppongEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2910.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1060https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1060/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Beyond the operating room: built environment design knowledge supportive of resilient surgical serviceshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1063/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSurgical services are settings where resilient performance (RP) is necessary to cope with a wide range of variabilities. Although RP can benefit from a supportive built environment (BE), prior studies have focused on the operating room, giving scant attention to support areas. This study takes a broader perspective, aiming at developing BE design knowledge supportive of RP at the surgical service as a whole. Seven BE design prescriptions developed in a previous work in the context of internal logistics of hospitals, and thus addressing interactions between workspaces, were used as a point of departure. The prescriptions were used as a data analysis framework in a case study of the surgical service of a medium-sized private hospital. The scope of the study included surgical and support areas, in addition to workflows involving patients and family members, staff, equipment, sterile instruments and materials, supplies, and waste. Data collection included document analysis, observations, interviews, and meetings with hospital staff. Results identified 60 examples of using the prescriptions, 77% of which were related to areas other than the operating rooms. The developed design knowledge is framed as a set of prescriptions, examples, and their association to workflows and areas, indicating where it should be applied. The design knowledge is new in surgical services and offers guidance to both BE and logistics designers.Beyond the operating room: built environment design knowledge supportive of resilient surgical services
Natália Ransolin, Tarcisio Abreu Saurin, Robyn Clay-Williams, Carlos Torres Formoso, Frances Rapport, John Cartmill
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Surgical services are settings where resilient performance (RP) is necessary to cope with a wide range of variabilities. Although RP can benefit from a supportive built environment (BE), prior studies have focused on the operating room, giving scant attention to support areas. This study takes a broader perspective, aiming at developing BE design knowledge supportive of RP at the surgical service as a whole.

Seven BE design prescriptions developed in a previous work in the context of internal logistics of hospitals, and thus addressing interactions between workspaces, were used as a point of departure. The prescriptions were used as a data analysis framework in a case study of the surgical service of a medium-sized private hospital. The scope of the study included surgical and support areas, in addition to workflows involving patients and family members, staff, equipment, sterile instruments and materials, supplies, and waste. Data collection included document analysis, observations, interviews, and meetings with hospital staff.

Results identified 60 examples of using the prescriptions, 77% of which were related to areas other than the operating rooms. The developed design knowledge is framed as a set of prescriptions, examples, and their association to workflows and areas, indicating where it should be applied.

The design knowledge is new in surgical services and offers guidance to both BE and logistics designers.

]]>
Beyond the operating room: built environment design knowledge supportive of resilient surgical services10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1063Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-12© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedNatália RansolinTarcisio Abreu SaurinRobyn Clay-WilliamsCarlos Torres FormosoFrances RapportJohn CartmillEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1210.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1063https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-10-2023-1063/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Prioritisation of bridge for improving its resilience using multi-criteria decision-making techniqueshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-0997/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe work on bridge resilience assessment includes quantitative and qualitative approaches to compare the multiple bridges based on their resilience. But still, the bridge resilience obtained by these assessment approaches is inefficient when prioritising multiple bridges to improve their resilience. Therefore, this study aims to develop a methodology for prioritising the bridges to improve their resilience. The research methodology follows three sequential phases. In the first phase, criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) technique is used to compute the criteria weights. The criteria considered are age, area, design high flood level, finish road level FRL and resilience index of bridges. While 12 river-crossing bridges maintained by one bridge owner are considered as alternatives. Then, in the second phase, the prioritisation of each bridge is evaluated using five techniques, including technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution, VIKOR (in Serbian, Visekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje), additive ratio assessment, complex proportional assessment and multi-objective optimisation method by ratio analysis. Finally, in the third phase, the results of all five techniques are integrated using CRITIC and the weighted sum method. The result of the study enables bridge owners to deal with the particular bridge that requires resilience improvement. The study concluded that it is not enough to consider only the bridge resilience index to improve its resilience. The prioritisation exercise should consider various other criteria that are not preferred during the bridge resilience assessment process. The proposed methodology is a novel framework based on the existing multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques for contributing knowledge in the domain of bridge resilience management. It can efficiently overcome the pitfall of decision-making when two bridges have the same resilience index score.Prioritisation of bridge for improving its resilience using multi-criteria decision-making techniques
V.H. Lad, D.A. Patel, K.A. Chauhan, K.A. Patel
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The work on bridge resilience assessment includes quantitative and qualitative approaches to compare the multiple bridges based on their resilience. But still, the bridge resilience obtained by these assessment approaches is inefficient when prioritising multiple bridges to improve their resilience. Therefore, this study aims to develop a methodology for prioritising the bridges to improve their resilience.

The research methodology follows three sequential phases. In the first phase, criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) technique is used to compute the criteria weights. The criteria considered are age, area, design high flood level, finish road level FRL and resilience index of bridges. While 12 river-crossing bridges maintained by one bridge owner are considered as alternatives. Then, in the second phase, the prioritisation of each bridge is evaluated using five techniques, including technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution, VIKOR (in Serbian, Visekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje), additive ratio assessment, complex proportional assessment and multi-objective optimisation method by ratio analysis. Finally, in the third phase, the results of all five techniques are integrated using CRITIC and the weighted sum method.

The result of the study enables bridge owners to deal with the particular bridge that requires resilience improvement. The study concluded that it is not enough to consider only the bridge resilience index to improve its resilience. The prioritisation exercise should consider various other criteria that are not preferred during the bridge resilience assessment process.

The proposed methodology is a novel framework based on the existing multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques for contributing knowledge in the domain of bridge resilience management. It can efficiently overcome the pitfall of decision-making when two bridges have the same resilience index score.

]]>
Prioritisation of bridge for improving its resilience using multi-criteria decision-making techniques10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-0997Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedV.H. LadD.A. PatelK.A. ChauhanK.A. PatelEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-11-2021-0997https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-0997/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Factors affecting performance of graduate architects in contract implementation management: a case study on housing projects in Malaysiahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1010/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGraduate architect plays an important role in contract implementation management when handling building construction projects. Graduate architects had been authorized to manage the projects in construction industry due to limited architects in the country. The capability of graduate architect when manage project is critical in reducing performance barriers encountered. The aim of this paper is to identify critical factors that affect graduate architect's performance during project implementation. An explorative study was undertaken to provide an insight into actual experiences of graduate architects in contract implementation management. The data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews providing case studies on contract implementation management on housing projects in Malaysia and observation of the actual on-going projects. The five most crucial factors affected graduate architects' performance related to lack of training in project documentation, failed to obtain professional and peer support in quality and assessment, isolate in role during project coordination, lack of education support in design process and unaware of legal aspects which delayed response to contractor. This research focuses only on seven housing projects and semi-structured interviews with twenty graduate architects who in charge of those projects. As such, the resulting factors that affect graduate architect's performance are limited and are constrained only to the construction industry in Malaysia. This research examined the factors affecting graduate architect's performance which is a timely study, as the increasing number of population and developments will provide ample opportunities for them to perform. The outcome of the study is expected to facilitate graduate architects to devise proactive risk mitigation measures to reduce impact of these factors and improve project delivery.Factors affecting performance of graduate architects in contract implementation management: a case study on housing projects in Malaysia
Si Yee Tiew
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Graduate architect plays an important role in contract implementation management when handling building construction projects. Graduate architects had been authorized to manage the projects in construction industry due to limited architects in the country. The capability of graduate architect when manage project is critical in reducing performance barriers encountered. The aim of this paper is to identify critical factors that affect graduate architect's performance during project implementation.

An explorative study was undertaken to provide an insight into actual experiences of graduate architects in contract implementation management. The data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews providing case studies on contract implementation management on housing projects in Malaysia and observation of the actual on-going projects.

The five most crucial factors affected graduate architects' performance related to lack of training in project documentation, failed to obtain professional and peer support in quality and assessment, isolate in role during project coordination, lack of education support in design process and unaware of legal aspects which delayed response to contractor.

This research focuses only on seven housing projects and semi-structured interviews with twenty graduate architects who in charge of those projects. As such, the resulting factors that affect graduate architect's performance are limited and are constrained only to the construction industry in Malaysia.

This research examined the factors affecting graduate architect's performance which is a timely study, as the increasing number of population and developments will provide ample opportunities for them to perform.

The outcome of the study is expected to facilitate graduate architects to devise proactive risk mitigation measures to reduce impact of these factors and improve project delivery.

]]>
Factors affecting performance of graduate architects in contract implementation management: a case study on housing projects in Malaysia10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1010Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-19© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedSi Yee TiewEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1910.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1010https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1010/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Mental health challenges of manual and trade workers in the construction industry: a systematic review of causes, effects and interventionshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestData from different countries suggest a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression and suicides among manual and trade workers in the construction industry than in the general population. The present review examines the causes and effects of poor mental health and the effectiveness of interventions to improve manual and trade workers' mental health in the construction industry. It also identifies gaps in research and makes several suggestions for practice and future research. A systematic literature review was conducted to examine and consolidate evidence reported in 54 relevant journal articles published between 2010 and 2021 on the mental health of manual and trade workers. Three major themes emerged in the review of the 54 journal articles: causes of poor mental health, effects of poor mental health and interventions to improve mental health. The leading causes of poor mental health among construction manual and trade workers are poor work-life balance, high job demand, poor cultural norms and mental health stigma, chronic bodily pain, lack of social support, workplace injustice and job insecurity. The prominent effects of poor mental health are suicidality, drug and alcohol addiction, poor workplace safety and poor work performance. Moreover, the study found that some of the strategies recently implemented in the construction industry to improve mental health are deemed ineffective, or their effectiveness remains inconclusive. The review's scope is limited to research on manual and trade workers, and it did not investigate the mental health of construction professionals and construction management students. The review provides valuable insights into the causes and effects of poor mental health among manual and trade workers and the effectiveness of mental health interventions in the construction industry.Mental health challenges of manual and trade workers in the construction industry: a systematic review of causes, effects and interventions
Jonah Duckworth, Abid Hasan, Imriyas Kamardeen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Data from different countries suggest a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression and suicides among manual and trade workers in the construction industry than in the general population. The present review examines the causes and effects of poor mental health and the effectiveness of interventions to improve manual and trade workers' mental health in the construction industry. It also identifies gaps in research and makes several suggestions for practice and future research.

A systematic literature review was conducted to examine and consolidate evidence reported in 54 relevant journal articles published between 2010 and 2021 on the mental health of manual and trade workers.

Three major themes emerged in the review of the 54 journal articles: causes of poor mental health, effects of poor mental health and interventions to improve mental health. The leading causes of poor mental health among construction manual and trade workers are poor work-life balance, high job demand, poor cultural norms and mental health stigma, chronic bodily pain, lack of social support, workplace injustice and job insecurity. The prominent effects of poor mental health are suicidality, drug and alcohol addiction, poor workplace safety and poor work performance. Moreover, the study found that some of the strategies recently implemented in the construction industry to improve mental health are deemed ineffective, or their effectiveness remains inconclusive.

The review's scope is limited to research on manual and trade workers, and it did not investigate the mental health of construction professionals and construction management students.

The review provides valuable insights into the causes and effects of poor mental health among manual and trade workers and the effectiveness of mental health interventions in the construction industry.

]]>
Mental health challenges of manual and trade workers in the construction industry: a systematic review of causes, effects and interventions10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1022Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2022-12-13© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedJonah DuckworthAbid HasanImriyas KamardeenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2022-12-1310.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1022https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1022/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Urban night lighting evaluation system and case study: blending popular contemporary elements, cultural traditions and advanced lighting technologieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1056/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestNight lighting reflects the prosperous development of economic and the increasingly rich and colorful cultural life. Currently, various technical standards, protocols and management specifications have been developed to build a safe, comfortable and economical lighting environment. However, prevailing evaluation systems focus on objective indexes of illumination and have ignored environmental characteristics and subjective feelings and lacked consideration of regional culture, economic benefit, management and maintenance. In this context, a lighting evaluation system combining subjective and objective is proposed for the first time in this study to explore approaches to guide the development of a healthy and comfortable urban night-time environment. Existing research and relevant lighting standards are analyzed and an evaluation model with a logical hierarchy is constructed by combining with the evaluation theory that is set based on people and the environment. The index weights were scientifically determined on the basis of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The rationality and validity of the proposed evaluation system is verified in accordance with field projects and case studies. Taking into account traditional and cultural factors, the evaluation model established has an acceptable accuracy. Evaluation based on subjective-objective combination can provide a scientific basis for the management and optimization of night lighting. The proposed evaluation system can serve as a guiding reference for other areas of cultural identity and esthetic perspective.Urban night lighting evaluation system and case study: blending popular contemporary elements, cultural traditions and advanced lighting technologies
Qingcheng Lin, Chi Zhang, Huiling Cai, Xuefeng Li, Hui Xiao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Night lighting reflects the prosperous development of economic and the increasingly rich and colorful cultural life. Currently, various technical standards, protocols and management specifications have been developed to build a safe, comfortable and economical lighting environment. However, prevailing evaluation systems focus on objective indexes of illumination and have ignored environmental characteristics and subjective feelings and lacked consideration of regional culture, economic benefit, management and maintenance. In this context, a lighting evaluation system combining subjective and objective is proposed for the first time in this study to explore approaches to guide the development of a healthy and comfortable urban night-time environment.

Existing research and relevant lighting standards are analyzed and an evaluation model with a logical hierarchy is constructed by combining with the evaluation theory that is set based on people and the environment. The index weights were scientifically determined on the basis of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The rationality and validity of the proposed evaluation system is verified in accordance with field projects and case studies.

Taking into account traditional and cultural factors, the evaluation model established has an acceptable accuracy. Evaluation based on subjective-objective combination can provide a scientific basis for the management and optimization of night lighting.

The proposed evaluation system can serve as a guiding reference for other areas of cultural identity and esthetic perspective.

]]>
Urban night lighting evaluation system and case study: blending popular contemporary elements, cultural traditions and advanced lighting technologies10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1056Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-01© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedQingcheng LinChi ZhangHuiling CaiXuefeng LiHui XiaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-0110.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1056https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1056/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigating the influence of quality management on building thermal performancehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1061/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDespite the number of quality management procedures being currently applied, construction defects in the domestic sector are acknowledged to contribute to the energy performance gap of buildings. This paper investigates the limitations and challenges to the implementation of project quality plans (PQPs) and their impact on the achievement of expected thermal performance in the UK social housing projects. A qualitative approach, guided by grounded theory, was used in this research. This methodology provided the structure for systematic data analysis iterations, enabling cross-case analysis. An analytic induction process was designed to seek the explanation of the targeted phenomenon and required data collection until no new ideas and concepts emerged from the research iterations. This study collected data from five social housing projects through interviews, site observations and project documentation. Multiple limitations and challenges were identified in the implementation of PQP to deliver thermal efficient social housing. Generally, there is the need for more objective quality compliance procedures based on required evidence. When investigating the root of the challenges, it was concluded that the adoption of statutory approval as the main quality compliance procedure led to the dilution of the responsibility for prevention and appraisal of defects that compromised the effectiveness of PQP devised by housing associations (HA) and contractors. This study identifies the shortcomings of PQP in addressing quality issues with potential to undermine the thermal performance of social housing projects. The findings could be used by HA, contractors and policymakers as steppingstones to improve the energy efficiency in the domestic sector.Investigating the influence of quality management on building thermal performance
Joao Alencastro, Alba Fuertes, Pieter de Wilde
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Despite the number of quality management procedures being currently applied, construction defects in the domestic sector are acknowledged to contribute to the energy performance gap of buildings. This paper investigates the limitations and challenges to the implementation of project quality plans (PQPs) and their impact on the achievement of expected thermal performance in the UK social housing projects.

A qualitative approach, guided by grounded theory, was used in this research. This methodology provided the structure for systematic data analysis iterations, enabling cross-case analysis. An analytic induction process was designed to seek the explanation of the targeted phenomenon and required data collection until no new ideas and concepts emerged from the research iterations. This study collected data from five social housing projects through interviews, site observations and project documentation.

Multiple limitations and challenges were identified in the implementation of PQP to deliver thermal efficient social housing. Generally, there is the need for more objective quality compliance procedures based on required evidence. When investigating the root of the challenges, it was concluded that the adoption of statutory approval as the main quality compliance procedure led to the dilution of the responsibility for prevention and appraisal of defects that compromised the effectiveness of PQP devised by housing associations (HA) and contractors.

This study identifies the shortcomings of PQP in addressing quality issues with potential to undermine the thermal performance of social housing projects. The findings could be used by HA, contractors and policymakers as steppingstones to improve the energy efficiency in the domestic sector.

]]>
Investigating the influence of quality management on building thermal performance10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1061Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-03-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJoao AlencastroAlba FuertesPieter de WildeEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-03-2810.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1061https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2021-1061/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Holistic analysis for the efficiency of the thermal mass performance of precast concrete panels in hot climate zoneshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1024/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper investigates thermal mass performance (TMP) in hot climates. The impact of using precast concrete (PC) as a core envelope with different insulation materials has been studied. The aim is to find the effect of building mass with different weights on indoor energy consumption, specifically cooling load in hot climates. This research adopted a case study and simulation methods to find out the efficiency of different mass performances in hot and humid climate conditions. Different scenarios of light, moderate and heavyweight mass using PC have been developed and simulated. The impact of these scenarios on indoor cooling load has been investigated using the integrated environment solution-virtual environment (IES-VE) software. The results showed that adopting a moderate weight mass of two PC sheets and a cavity layer in between can reduce indoor air temperature by 1.17 °C; however, this type of mass may increase the cooling demand. On the other hand, it has been proven that adopting a heavyweight mass for building envelopes and increasing the insulation material has a significant impact on reducing the cooling load. Using a PC Sandwich panel and increasing the insulation material layers for external walls and thickness by 50 mm will reduce the cooling load by 15.8%. Therefore, the heavyweight mass is more efficient compared to lightweight and moderate mass in hot, humid climate areas such as the UAE, in spite of the positive indoor TMP that can be provided by the lightweight mass in reducing the indoor air temperature in the summer season. This research contributes to the thermal mass concept as one of these strategies that have recently been adopted to optimize the thermal performance of buildings and developments. Efficient TMP can have a massive impact on reducing energy consumption. However, less work has investigated TMP in hot and humid climate conditions. Furthermore, the impact of the PC on indoor thermal performance within hot climate areas has not been studied yet. The findings of this study on TMP in the summer season can be generated in all hot climate zones, and investigating the TMP in other seasons can be extended in future studies.Holistic analysis for the efficiency of the thermal mass performance of precast concrete panels in hot climate zones
Sundus Shareef, Emad S. Mushtaha, Saleh Abu Dabous, Imad Alsyouf
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper investigates thermal mass performance (TMP) in hot climates. The impact of using precast concrete (PC) as a core envelope with different insulation materials has been studied. The aim is to find the effect of building mass with different weights on indoor energy consumption, specifically cooling load in hot climates.

This research adopted a case study and simulation methods to find out the efficiency of different mass performances in hot and humid climate conditions. Different scenarios of light, moderate and heavyweight mass using PC have been developed and simulated. The impact of these scenarios on indoor cooling load has been investigated using the integrated environment solution-virtual environment (IES-VE) software.

The results showed that adopting a moderate weight mass of two PC sheets and a cavity layer in between can reduce indoor air temperature by 1.17 °C; however, this type of mass may increase the cooling demand. On the other hand, it has been proven that adopting a heavyweight mass for building envelopes and increasing the insulation material has a significant impact on reducing the cooling load. Using a PC Sandwich panel and increasing the insulation material layers for external walls and thickness by 50 mm will reduce the cooling load by 15.8%. Therefore, the heavyweight mass is more efficient compared to lightweight and moderate mass in hot, humid climate areas such as the UAE, in spite of the positive indoor TMP that can be provided by the lightweight mass in reducing the indoor air temperature in the summer season.

This research contributes to the thermal mass concept as one of these strategies that have recently been adopted to optimize the thermal performance of buildings and developments. Efficient TMP can have a massive impact on reducing energy consumption. However, less work has investigated TMP in hot and humid climate conditions. Furthermore, the impact of the PC on indoor thermal performance within hot climate areas has not been studied yet. The findings of this study on TMP in the summer season can be generated in all hot climate zones, and investigating the TMP in other seasons can be extended in future studies.

]]>
Holistic analysis for the efficiency of the thermal mass performance of precast concrete panels in hot climate zones10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1024Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSundus ShareefEmad S. MushtahaSaleh Abu DabousImad AlsyoufEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1810.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1024https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1024/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Consumer purchase intention for extrinsic and intrinsic cues of construction and demolition waste recycled productshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1035/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe preferences and adoption of recycled materials by consumers are subject to a variety of factors, such as enablers and barriers. Despite this, there exists a paucity of research concerning stakeholders' perceived value and real purchase decision towards recycled products. Consequently, this research study aims to fill this gap by investigating stakeholders' perceived value of recycled products derived from construction and demolition (C&D) waste and its effect on purchase decisions. Research data were collected from 219 valid questionnaires completed by Chinese stakeholders. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was then employed to test eight hypotheses. The results show intrinsic cue (materials) and extrinsic cue (brand) influence the stakeholders’ judgment on C&D waste recycled products’ value and then their purchase intention. However, cues such as quality, word-of-mouth, price, policy and advertised have not play a significant role in practice. This research study verified the significance of brand and material cues on decision making for purchasing C&D waste recycled products, providing new insights to policy making to enhance the uptake of C&D waste recycled products in construction industry.Consumer purchase intention for extrinsic and intrinsic cues of construction and demolition waste recycled products
Zhikun Ding, Wanqi Nie, Vivian W.Y. Tam, Chethana Illankoon
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The preferences and adoption of recycled materials by consumers are subject to a variety of factors, such as enablers and barriers. Despite this, there exists a paucity of research concerning stakeholders' perceived value and real purchase decision towards recycled products. Consequently, this research study aims to fill this gap by investigating stakeholders' perceived value of recycled products derived from construction and demolition (C&D) waste and its effect on purchase decisions.

Research data were collected from 219 valid questionnaires completed by Chinese stakeholders. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was then employed to test eight hypotheses.

The results show intrinsic cue (materials) and extrinsic cue (brand) influence the stakeholders’ judgment on C&D waste recycled products’ value and then their purchase intention. However, cues such as quality, word-of-mouth, price, policy and advertised have not play a significant role in practice.

This research study verified the significance of brand and material cues on decision making for purchasing C&D waste recycled products, providing new insights to policy making to enhance the uptake of C&D waste recycled products in construction industry.

]]>
Consumer purchase intention for extrinsic and intrinsic cues of construction and demolition waste recycled products10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1035Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-28© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedZhikun DingWanqi NieVivian W.Y. TamChethana IllankoonEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2810.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1035https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1035/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
A real options-based investment-income valuation model for old community renewal projects in Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1036/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestTo propose a new investment-income valuation model by real options approach (ROA) for old community renewal (OCR) projects, which could help the government attract private capital's participation. The new model is proposed by identifying the types of options private capital has in the OCR project, selecting the option model most suitable for private capital investment decisions, improving the valuation model through the triangular fuzzy numbers to take into account the uncertainty and flexibility, and demonstrating the feasibility of the calculation model through an actual OCR project case. The new model can valuate OCR projects more accurately based on considering uncertainty and flexibility, compared with conventional methods that often underestimate the value of OCR projects. The investment-income of OCR projects shall be re-valuated from the lens of real options, which could help reveal more real benefits beyond the capital growth of OCR projects, enable the government to attract private capital's investment in OCR, and alleviate government fiscal pressure. The proposed OCR-oriented investment-income valuation model systematically analyzes the applicability of real option value (ROV) to OCR projects, innovatively integrates the ROV and the net present value (NPV) as expanded net present value (ENPV), and accurately evaluate real benefits in comparison with existing models. Furthermore, the newly proposed model holds the potential to be transferred to various social welfare projects as a tool to attract private capital's participation.A real options-based investment-income valuation model for old community renewal projects in China
Dezhi Li, Lugang Yu, Guanying Huang, Shenghua Zhou, Haibo Feng, Yanqing Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

To propose a new investment-income valuation model by real options approach (ROA) for old community renewal (OCR) projects, which could help the government attract private capital's participation.

The new model is proposed by identifying the types of options private capital has in the OCR project, selecting the option model most suitable for private capital investment decisions, improving the valuation model through the triangular fuzzy numbers to take into account the uncertainty and flexibility, and demonstrating the feasibility of the calculation model through an actual OCR project case.

The new model can valuate OCR projects more accurately based on considering uncertainty and flexibility, compared with conventional methods that often underestimate the value of OCR projects.

The investment-income of OCR projects shall be re-valuated from the lens of real options, which could help reveal more real benefits beyond the capital growth of OCR projects, enable the government to attract private capital's investment in OCR, and alleviate government fiscal pressure.

The proposed OCR-oriented investment-income valuation model systematically analyzes the applicability of real option value (ROV) to OCR projects, innovatively integrates the ROV and the net present value (NPV) as expanded net present value (ENPV), and accurately evaluate real benefits in comparison with existing models. Furthermore, the newly proposed model holds the potential to be transferred to various social welfare projects as a tool to attract private capital's participation.

]]>
A real options-based investment-income valuation model for old community renewal projects in China10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1036Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDezhi LiLugang YuGuanying HuangShenghua ZhouHaibo FengYanqing WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2310.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1036https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1036/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Walking the talk towards sustainable consumption: interventions to promote the uptake of reprocessed construction materialshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1040/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe uptake of reprocessed construction materials (RCMs) derived from demolition waste (DW) is limited, which questions the long-term sustainability of DW reverse logistics (RL). To address this gap, the current study focused on identifying informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs among Australian construction professionals (CPs). Following a qualitative research approach with thirty-one semi-structured interviews, the study explored potential interventions that can drive broader RCM usage. The study's strength lies in the in-depth qualitative insights gathered through extensive interviews with CPs experienced in using RCMs. Sixteen informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs were identified and mapped against the industry levels at which they should be implemented. RCM suppliers should focus on improving material quality, supply and marketing while minimising material costs. Governments should encourage using RCMs through incentivisation, supportive legislation and approval processes. The significance of awareness building and research was also recognised, which requires the collective efforts of suppliers, governmental and non-governmental bodies and educational institutes. Despite the talk around sustainable consumption, the actual walk towards this is limited from a construction perspective, as seen through the low uptake of RCMs. This study attempts to bridge this mismatch by outlining informational and structural interventions that would drive CPs to walk the talk and use RCMs for construction applications. While most studies on DW RL have focused on improving waste recovery processes, this study takes a less-trodden path and explores the potential for developing markets for RCMs.Walking the talk towards sustainable consumption: interventions to promote the uptake of reprocessed construction materials
Gihan Anuradha Tennakoon, Raufdeen Rameezdeen, Nicholas Chileshe
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The uptake of reprocessed construction materials (RCMs) derived from demolition waste (DW) is limited, which questions the long-term sustainability of DW reverse logistics (RL). To address this gap, the current study focused on identifying informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs among Australian construction professionals (CPs).

Following a qualitative research approach with thirty-one semi-structured interviews, the study explored potential interventions that can drive broader RCM usage. The study's strength lies in the in-depth qualitative insights gathered through extensive interviews with CPs experienced in using RCMs.

Sixteen informational and structural interventions to promote the uptake of RCMs were identified and mapped against the industry levels at which they should be implemented. RCM suppliers should focus on improving material quality, supply and marketing while minimising material costs. Governments should encourage using RCMs through incentivisation, supportive legislation and approval processes. The significance of awareness building and research was also recognised, which requires the collective efforts of suppliers, governmental and non-governmental bodies and educational institutes.

Despite the talk around sustainable consumption, the actual walk towards this is limited from a construction perspective, as seen through the low uptake of RCMs. This study attempts to bridge this mismatch by outlining informational and structural interventions that would drive CPs to walk the talk and use RCMs for construction applications. While most studies on DW RL have focused on improving waste recovery processes, this study takes a less-trodden path and explores the potential for developing markets for RCMs.

]]>
Walking the talk towards sustainable consumption: interventions to promote the uptake of reprocessed construction materials10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1040Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedGihan Anuradha TennakoonRaufdeen RameezdeenNicholas ChilesheEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-2810.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1040https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1040/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A multivariate regression analysis of barriers to digital technologies adoption in the construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1051/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWith growing concern about sustainable development and increased awareness of environmental issues, digital technologies (DTs) are gaining prominence and becoming a promising trend to improve productivity, sustainability and project performance in the construction industry. Nonetheless, the uptake of DTs in the construction industry has been limited and plagued with roadblocks. This study aims to identify critical barriers for construction organisations to adopt DTs and to demonstrate relationships between organisational characteristics and the perceived DTs adoption barriers. This study adopted an explanatory sequential design by combining the advantages of quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection methods include literature review, a pilot study, questionnaire survey, and semi-structured interviews. Questionnaire data were analysed by using SPSS and multivariate regression technique. The interview data were processed by using content analysis to validate and supplement findings from the questionnaire. Based on the survey and interview results, eight critical barriers were identified: the three top critical barriers are (1) “status quo industry standards”, (2) “lack of client interest” and (3) “lack of financial need/drive for using DTs”. The eight critical barriers were further classified into technical, environmental, and social dimensions to determine the major constructs that hinder DTs adoption. A theoretical framework articulating critical barriers with underlying components and root causes was also proposed. Furthermore, by using multivariate regression analysis, a model was developed to link the organisational characteristics with barriers to DTs adoption. By referring to the framework and the model developed, academics, industry practitioners, and decision makers can identify pivotal areas for improvement, make informed decisions and implement remedial measures to remove the barriers to digitalisation transformation. This study contributes to the literature on construction innovations by investigating barriers to DTs adoption holistically as well as perceptions of the impact of organisational attributes on these barriers. It establishes the groundwork for future empirical research into the strategic consolidation of movement of DTs adoption and diffusion.A multivariate regression analysis of barriers to digital technologies adoption in the construction industry
Xichen Chen, Alice Yan Chang-Richards, Tak Wing Yiu, Florence Yean Yng Ling, Antony Pelosi, Nan Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

With growing concern about sustainable development and increased awareness of environmental issues, digital technologies (DTs) are gaining prominence and becoming a promising trend to improve productivity, sustainability and project performance in the construction industry. Nonetheless, the uptake of DTs in the construction industry has been limited and plagued with roadblocks. This study aims to identify critical barriers for construction organisations to adopt DTs and to demonstrate relationships between organisational characteristics and the perceived DTs adoption barriers.

This study adopted an explanatory sequential design by combining the advantages of quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection methods include literature review, a pilot study, questionnaire survey, and semi-structured interviews. Questionnaire data were analysed by using SPSS and multivariate regression technique. The interview data were processed by using content analysis to validate and supplement findings from the questionnaire.

Based on the survey and interview results, eight critical barriers were identified: the three top critical barriers are (1) “status quo industry standards”, (2) “lack of client interest” and (3) “lack of financial need/drive for using DTs”. The eight critical barriers were further classified into technical, environmental, and social dimensions to determine the major constructs that hinder DTs adoption. A theoretical framework articulating critical barriers with underlying components and root causes was also proposed. Furthermore, by using multivariate regression analysis, a model was developed to link the organisational characteristics with barriers to DTs adoption.

By referring to the framework and the model developed, academics, industry practitioners, and decision makers can identify pivotal areas for improvement, make informed decisions and implement remedial measures to remove the barriers to digitalisation transformation.

This study contributes to the literature on construction innovations by investigating barriers to DTs adoption holistically as well as perceptions of the impact of organisational attributes on these barriers. It establishes the groundwork for future empirical research into the strategic consolidation of movement of DTs adoption and diffusion.

]]>
A multivariate regression analysis of barriers to digital technologies adoption in the construction industry10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1051Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXichen ChenAlice Yan Chang-RichardsTak Wing YiuFlorence Yean Yng LingAntony PelosiNan YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-0410.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1051https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1051/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Management of gross negligence manslaughter liability construction for professionals and lessons learnedhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1059/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestBy inspecting the special connection between negligence and the causes of negligence, this study evaluates the reasonableness of negligence offenses elements from the perspectives of “modes” and “rules.” This study considers that in the core concept of negligent manslaughter in the Criminal Code of Taiwan, “business” comprises an outstretched legal element; thus, “application by analogy” or “customary laws” should be prohibited as a legal basis or when applying the criminal code because those are not allowed under nulla poena sine lege. Nulla poena sine lege must be respected to release construction professionals from material risks in their judicial rights and interests. This study used data mining analysis with a database of 204 cases where construction professionals were involved in an accusation of gross negligence manslaughter (GNM) (N = 486) between 1995 and 2021 to explore the reasons and distribution of these cases in the construction industry in Taiwan. The results showed that the main reasons behind lawful GNM accusations against construction professionals are as follows: (1) the violation of employers' duty of care to prevent hazards caused in workplaces where falling and collapsing are concerns during construction, thus resulting in death; (2) gross negligence during design, construction and supervision, causing damages after natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. This study discusses the whole life circle of construction, starting from planning, design, construction and completion. However, the involvement of other offenses such as providing false statements, forgery, embezzlement, unjust enrichment and fraudulent tax evasion or criminal responsibilities stipulated in the Building Act or administrative punishments are beyond the scope of this study. Future studies will focus on foreign “business GNM” cases from judicial precedents with similar backgrounds to Taiwan in the construction industry to verify whether similar conclusions can be drawn and to examine their differences. This study applied data mining and data analysis to the data and explored potential causality and patterns of GNM cases in judicial cases. The results of the analyses can be used as evidence for potential causality and thus facilitate construction professionals' self-reflection and contribute to the sustainable development of working environments for construction. This study agrees with the removal of GNM titled “business” in the Criminal Code of Taiwan to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the building industry. By doing so, national judicial and management systems will be in line with international standards, ensuring that everyone has equal access to justice. Goal 16 of the SDGs by the United Nations aims to promote judicial equality, peace, justice and strong institutions. With this basis, this study collected and analyzed data in the field of criminal law and applied the theory of criminal offenses committed by negligence to real construction-related cases. This study especially discusses whether construction professionals were imposed with excessive responsibilities when a court enforced the “duty of care” that asked the professionals to bear the responsibility of results for events that should be and could be foreseen.Management of gross negligence manslaughter liability construction for professionals and lessons learned
Mu-Chun Liao, Ting-Ya Hsieh, Wei-Hsiang Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

By inspecting the special connection between negligence and the causes of negligence, this study evaluates the reasonableness of negligence offenses elements from the perspectives of “modes” and “rules.” This study considers that in the core concept of negligent manslaughter in the Criminal Code of Taiwan, “business” comprises an outstretched legal element; thus, “application by analogy” or “customary laws” should be prohibited as a legal basis or when applying the criminal code because those are not allowed under nulla poena sine lege. Nulla poena sine lege must be respected to release construction professionals from material risks in their judicial rights and interests.

This study used data mining analysis with a database of 204 cases where construction professionals were involved in an accusation of gross negligence manslaughter (GNM) (N = 486) between 1995 and 2021 to explore the reasons and distribution of these cases in the construction industry in Taiwan.

The results showed that the main reasons behind lawful GNM accusations against construction professionals are as follows: (1) the violation of employers' duty of care to prevent hazards caused in workplaces where falling and collapsing are concerns during construction, thus resulting in death; (2) gross negligence during design, construction and supervision, causing damages after natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons.

This study discusses the whole life circle of construction, starting from planning, design, construction and completion. However, the involvement of other offenses such as providing false statements, forgery, embezzlement, unjust enrichment and fraudulent tax evasion or criminal responsibilities stipulated in the Building Act or administrative punishments are beyond the scope of this study. Future studies will focus on foreign “business GNM” cases from judicial precedents with similar backgrounds to Taiwan in the construction industry to verify whether similar conclusions can be drawn and to examine their differences.

This study applied data mining and data analysis to the data and explored potential causality and patterns of GNM cases in judicial cases. The results of the analyses can be used as evidence for potential causality and thus facilitate construction professionals' self-reflection and contribute to the sustainable development of working environments for construction.

This study agrees with the removal of GNM titled “business” in the Criminal Code of Taiwan to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the building industry. By doing so, national judicial and management systems will be in line with international standards, ensuring that everyone has equal access to justice.

Goal 16 of the SDGs by the United Nations aims to promote judicial equality, peace, justice and strong institutions. With this basis, this study collected and analyzed data in the field of criminal law and applied the theory of criminal offenses committed by negligence to real construction-related cases. This study especially discusses whether construction professionals were imposed with excessive responsibilities when a court enforced the “duty of care” that asked the professionals to bear the responsibility of results for events that should be and could be foreseen.

]]>
Management of gross negligence manslaughter liability construction for professionals and lessons learned10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1059Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-20© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMu-Chun LiaoTing-Ya HsiehWei-Hsiang WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-2010.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1059https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1059/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Game evolution analysis of BIM application willingness of prefabricated construction partieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1063/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestTo further promote application of BIM technology in construction of prefabricated buildings, influencing factors and evolution laws of willingness to apply BIM technology are explored from the perspective of willingness of participants. In this paper, a tripartite game model involving the design firm, component manufacturer and construction firm is constructed and a system dynamics method is used to explore the influencing factors and game evolution path of three parties' application of BIM technology, from three perspectives, cost, benefit and risk. The government should formulate measures for promoting the application of BIM according to different BIM application willingness of the parties. When pursuing deeper BIM application, the design firm should pay attention to reducing the speculative benefits of the component manufacturer and the construction firm. The design firm and the component manufacturer should pay attention to balancing the cost and benefit of the design firm while enhancing collaborative efforts. When the component manufacturer and the construction firm cooperate closely, it is necessary to pay attention to balanced distribution of interests of both parties and lower the risk of BIM application. This study fills a research gap by comprehensively investigating the influencing factors and game evolution paths of willingness of the three parties to apply BIM technology to prefabricated buildings. The research helps to effectively improve the building quality and construction efficiency, and is expected to contribute to the sustainability of built environment in the context of circular economy in China.Game evolution analysis of BIM application willingness of prefabricated construction parties
Chi Zhang, Kun He, Wenjie Zhang, Ting Jin, Yibin Ao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

To further promote application of BIM technology in construction of prefabricated buildings, influencing factors and evolution laws of willingness to apply BIM technology are explored from the perspective of willingness of participants.

In this paper, a tripartite game model involving the design firm, component manufacturer and construction firm is constructed and a system dynamics method is used to explore the influencing factors and game evolution path of three parties' application of BIM technology, from three perspectives, cost, benefit and risk.

The government should formulate measures for promoting the application of BIM according to different BIM application willingness of the parties. When pursuing deeper BIM application, the design firm should pay attention to reducing the speculative benefits of the component manufacturer and the construction firm. The design firm and the component manufacturer should pay attention to balancing the cost and benefit of the design firm while enhancing collaborative efforts. When the component manufacturer and the construction firm cooperate closely, it is necessary to pay attention to balanced distribution of interests of both parties and lower the risk of BIM application.

This study fills a research gap by comprehensively investigating the influencing factors and game evolution paths of willingness of the three parties to apply BIM technology to prefabricated buildings. The research helps to effectively improve the building quality and construction efficiency, and is expected to contribute to the sustainability of built environment in the context of circular economy in China.

]]>
Game evolution analysis of BIM application willingness of prefabricated construction parties10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1063Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-06© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedChi ZhangKun HeWenjie ZhangTing JinYibin AoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0610.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1063https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1063/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Active BIM system for optimized multi-project ready-mix-concrete deliveryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1064/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestReady-mix concrete delivery problem (RMCDP), a specific version of the vehicle routing problem (VRP), is a relevant supply-chain engineering task for construction management with various formulations and solving methods. This problem can range from a simple scenario involving one source, one material and one destination to a more challenging and complex case involving multiple sources, multiple materials and multiple destinations. This paper presents an Internet of Things (IoT)-supported active building information modeling (BIM) system for optimized multi-project ready-mix concrete (RMC) delivery. The presented system is BIM-based, IoT supported, dynamic and automatic input/output exchange to provide an optimal delivery program for multi-project ready-mix-concrete problem. The input parameters are extracted as real-time map-supported IoT data and transferred to the system via an application programming interface (API) into a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) optimization model developed to perform the optimization. The obtained optimization results are further integrated into BIM by conventional project management tools. To demonstrate the features of the suggested system, an RMCDP example was applied to solve that included four building sites, seven eligible concrete plants and three necessary RMC mixtures. The system provides the optimum delivery schedule for multiple RMCs to multiple construction sites, as well as the optimum RMC quantities to be delivered, the quantities from each concrete plant that must be supplied, the best delivery routes, the optimum execution times for each construction site, and the total minimal costs, while also assuring the dynamic transfer of the optimized results back into the portfolio of multiple BIM projects. The system can generate as many solutions as needed by updating the real-time input parameters in terms of change of the routes, unit prices and availability of concrete plants. The suggested system allows dynamic adjustments during the optimization process, andis adaptable to changes in input data also considering the real-time input data. The system is based on spreadsheets, which are widely used and common tool that most stakeholders already utilize daily, while also providing the possibility to apply a more specialized tool. Based on this, the RMCDP can be solved using both conventional and advanced optimization software, enabling the system to handle even large-scale tasks as necessary.Active BIM system for optimized multi-project ready-mix-concrete delivery
Hana Begić, Mario Galić, Uroš Klanšek
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Ready-mix concrete delivery problem (RMCDP), a specific version of the vehicle routing problem (VRP), is a relevant supply-chain engineering task for construction management with various formulations and solving methods. This problem can range from a simple scenario involving one source, one material and one destination to a more challenging and complex case involving multiple sources, multiple materials and multiple destinations. This paper presents an Internet of Things (IoT)-supported active building information modeling (BIM) system for optimized multi-project ready-mix concrete (RMC) delivery.

The presented system is BIM-based, IoT supported, dynamic and automatic input/output exchange to provide an optimal delivery program for multi-project ready-mix-concrete problem. The input parameters are extracted as real-time map-supported IoT data and transferred to the system via an application programming interface (API) into a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) optimization model developed to perform the optimization. The obtained optimization results are further integrated into BIM by conventional project management tools. To demonstrate the features of the suggested system, an RMCDP example was applied to solve that included four building sites, seven eligible concrete plants and three necessary RMC mixtures.

The system provides the optimum delivery schedule for multiple RMCs to multiple construction sites, as well as the optimum RMC quantities to be delivered, the quantities from each concrete plant that must be supplied, the best delivery routes, the optimum execution times for each construction site, and the total minimal costs, while also assuring the dynamic transfer of the optimized results back into the portfolio of multiple BIM projects. The system can generate as many solutions as needed by updating the real-time input parameters in terms of change of the routes, unit prices and availability of concrete plants.

The suggested system allows dynamic adjustments during the optimization process, andis adaptable to changes in input data also considering the real-time input data. The system is based on spreadsheets, which are widely used and common tool that most stakeholders already utilize daily, while also providing the possibility to apply a more specialized tool. Based on this, the RMCDP can be solved using both conventional and advanced optimization software, enabling the system to handle even large-scale tasks as necessary.

]]>
Active BIM system for optimized multi-project ready-mix-concrete delivery10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1064Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedHana BegićMario GalićUroš KlanšekEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-3010.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1064https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1064/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
What and how influence the safety knowledge sharing of new generation of construction workers in China: a study based on DEMATEL and ISMhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1065/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestNew generation of construction workers (NGCWs) who were born in the 1980s and later have gradually become the main workforce of Chinese construction industry. They may behave differently when dealing with knowledge-related activities due to divergent characteristics caused by generational discrepancy. To provide a theoretical foundation for construction companies and safety managers to improve safety management, this research explores the factors and paths impacting the NGCWs' ability to share their safety knowledge. Based on literature review, main factors that influence the safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs were identified. Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory and Interpretive Structural Modeling were applied to identify the hierarchical and contextual relations among the factors influencing the safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs. The results showed that sharing atmosphere ranked first in centrality and had a high degree of influence and being influenced, indicating itself an extremely important influencing factor of safety knowledge sharing of NGCWs. Six root influencing factors were identified, including individual characteristics, work pressure, sharing platform, incentive mechanism, leadership support and safety management system. The number of influencing factors of safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs identified in this study is limited, and the data obtained by the expert scoring method is subjective. In future studies, the model should be further developed and validated by incorporating experts from different fields to improve its integrity and applicability. The influencing factors identified in this paper can provide a basis for construction companies and safety managers to improve productivity and safety management by taking relevant measures to promote safety knowledge sharing. The research contributes to the understanding knowledge management in the context of the emerging market. It helps to answer the question of how the market can maintain the economic growth success through effective knowledge management. This paper investigates the influencing factors of NGCWs' safety knowledge sharing from the perspective of intergenerational differences, and the 13 influencing factor index system established expands the scope of research on factors influencing safety knowledge sharing among construction workers and fills the gap in safety knowledge sharing research on young construction workers. Furthermore, this paper establishes a multi-layer recursive structure model to clarify the influence path of the influencing factors and contributes to the understanding of safety knowledge sharing mechanism.What and how influence the safety knowledge sharing of new generation of construction workers in China: a study based on DEMATEL and ISM
Guodong Ni, Qi Zhou, Xinyue Miao, Miaomiao Niu, Yuzhuo Zheng, Yuanyuan Zhu, Guoxuan Ni
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

New generation of construction workers (NGCWs) who were born in the 1980s and later have gradually become the main workforce of Chinese construction industry. They may behave differently when dealing with knowledge-related activities due to divergent characteristics caused by generational discrepancy. To provide a theoretical foundation for construction companies and safety managers to improve safety management, this research explores the factors and paths impacting the NGCWs' ability to share their safety knowledge.

Based on literature review, main factors that influence the safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs were identified. Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory and Interpretive Structural Modeling were applied to identify the hierarchical and contextual relations among the factors influencing the safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs.

The results showed that sharing atmosphere ranked first in centrality and had a high degree of influence and being influenced, indicating itself an extremely important influencing factor of safety knowledge sharing of NGCWs. Six root influencing factors were identified, including individual characteristics, work pressure, sharing platform, incentive mechanism, leadership support and safety management system.

The number of influencing factors of safety knowledge sharing of the NGCWs identified in this study is limited, and the data obtained by the expert scoring method is subjective. In future studies, the model should be further developed and validated by incorporating experts from different fields to improve its integrity and applicability.

The influencing factors identified in this paper can provide a basis for construction companies and safety managers to improve productivity and safety management by taking relevant measures to promote safety knowledge sharing. The research contributes to the understanding knowledge management in the context of the emerging market. It helps to answer the question of how the market can maintain the economic growth success through effective knowledge management.

This paper investigates the influencing factors of NGCWs' safety knowledge sharing from the perspective of intergenerational differences, and the 13 influencing factor index system established expands the scope of research on factors influencing safety knowledge sharing among construction workers and fills the gap in safety knowledge sharing research on young construction workers. Furthermore, this paper establishes a multi-layer recursive structure model to clarify the influence path of the influencing factors and contributes to the understanding of safety knowledge sharing mechanism.

]]>
What and how influence the safety knowledge sharing of new generation of construction workers in China: a study based on DEMATEL and ISM10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1065Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedGuodong NiQi ZhouXinyue MiaoMiaomiao NiuYuzhuo ZhengYuanyuan ZhuGuoxuan NiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-1310.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1065https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1065/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A domain model for geometric modeling in support of the automated BIM modelinghttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1067/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to argue that manual geometric modeling is blocking the building information modeling (BIM) promotion to small-size companies. Therefore, it is necessary to study a manner of automated modeling to reduce the dependence of BIM implementation on manpower. This paper aims to make a study into such a system to propose both its theory and prototype. This research took a prototyping as the methodology, which consists of three steps: (1) proposing a theoretical framework supporting automated geometric modeling process; (2) developing a prototype system based on the framework; (3) conducting a testing for the prototype system on its performance. Previous researches into automated geometric modeling only respectively focused on a specific procedure for a particular engineering domain. No general model was abstracted to support generic geometric modeling. This paper, taking higher level of abstraction, proposed such a model that can describe general geometric modeling process to serve generic automated geometric modeling systems. This paper focused on only geometric modeling, skipping non-geometric information of BIM. A complete BIM model consists of geometric and non-geometric data. Therefore, the method of combination of them is on the research agenda. The model proposed by this paper provide a mechanism to translate engineering geometric objects into textual representations, being able to act as the kernel of generic automated geometric modeling systems, which are expected to boost BIM promotion in industry.A domain model for geometric modeling in support of the automated BIM modeling
Lin Yang, Qiming Li, Wei Pan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to argue that manual geometric modeling is blocking the building information modeling (BIM) promotion to small-size companies. Therefore, it is necessary to study a manner of automated modeling to reduce the dependence of BIM implementation on manpower. This paper aims to make a study into such a system to propose both its theory and prototype.

This research took a prototyping as the methodology, which consists of three steps: (1) proposing a theoretical framework supporting automated geometric modeling process; (2) developing a prototype system based on the framework; (3) conducting a testing for the prototype system on its performance.

Previous researches into automated geometric modeling only respectively focused on a specific procedure for a particular engineering domain. No general model was abstracted to support generic geometric modeling. This paper, taking higher level of abstraction, proposed such a model that can describe general geometric modeling process to serve generic automated geometric modeling systems.

This paper focused on only geometric modeling, skipping non-geometric information of BIM. A complete BIM model consists of geometric and non-geometric data. Therefore, the method of combination of them is on the research agenda.

The model proposed by this paper provide a mechanism to translate engineering geometric objects into textual representations, being able to act as the kernel of generic automated geometric modeling systems, which are expected to boost BIM promotion in industry.

]]>
A domain model for geometric modeling in support of the automated BIM modeling10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1067Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-28© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLin YangQiming LiWei PanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-2810.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1067https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1067/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
The value of voluntary participation in construction dispute mediationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1070/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestVoluntary participation (VP) has been identified as one of the characterizing features of mediation. This study aims to examine the value of VP in construction dispute mediation from two perspectives. Firstly, is VP a prerequisite of successful construction mediation. Secondly, does power asymmetry (PA) between the contracting parties marginalize the value of VP in fostering the use of mediation to resolve construction disputes. Constructs of VP, PA and prerequisites of successful mediation were first developed. Principal component factor analysis was performed on data collected from the construction dispute resolution community to explore the underlying structure of the constructs. The relationships between the constructs were tested by structural equation modelling. VP is found to be an important attribute of successful mediation. PA is also found to be inherent in construction contracting. This study identified three forms of PA: Resource, Information and Expectation. Moreover, this study found no conclusive empirical evidence to support that PA would marginalize the value of VP in fostering an attempt to construction dispute mediation. It is suggested that VP shall remain one of characterizing features of mediation. The users, mediators and the judiciary should be aware of the importance of VP in mediation, irrespective of the use of mediation is contractual or court-encouraged. Although the presence of PA between the disputing parties, through participating voluntarily and ensuring the mediation process is flexible and fair, the chance of achieving a settlement would be enhanced. VP has been viewed as one of the fundamentals of mediation. This study empirically supported this design concept. Furthermore, PA in construction contracting can be expressed as disparities in resource, information and expectation. Their existence presents no significant barrier to attempt of mediation. The flexible approach of mediation has been instrumental in overcoming the paradox between VP and PA. This study affirms the positive value of VP in fostering the use of construction dispute mediation.The value of voluntary participation in construction dispute mediation
Nan Cao, Sai On Cheung
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Voluntary participation (VP) has been identified as one of the characterizing features of mediation. This study aims to examine the value of VP in construction dispute mediation from two perspectives. Firstly, is VP a prerequisite of successful construction mediation. Secondly, does power asymmetry (PA) between the contracting parties marginalize the value of VP in fostering the use of mediation to resolve construction disputes.

Constructs of VP, PA and prerequisites of successful mediation were first developed. Principal component factor analysis was performed on data collected from the construction dispute resolution community to explore the underlying structure of the constructs. The relationships between the constructs were tested by structural equation modelling.

VP is found to be an important attribute of successful mediation. PA is also found to be inherent in construction contracting. This study identified three forms of PA: Resource, Information and Expectation. Moreover, this study found no conclusive empirical evidence to support that PA would marginalize the value of VP in fostering an attempt to construction dispute mediation. It is suggested that VP shall remain one of characterizing features of mediation.

The users, mediators and the judiciary should be aware of the importance of VP in mediation, irrespective of the use of mediation is contractual or court-encouraged. Although the presence of PA between the disputing parties, through participating voluntarily and ensuring the mediation process is flexible and fair, the chance of achieving a settlement would be enhanced.

VP has been viewed as one of the fundamentals of mediation. This study empirically supported this design concept. Furthermore, PA in construction contracting can be expressed as disparities in resource, information and expectation. Their existence presents no significant barrier to attempt of mediation. The flexible approach of mediation has been instrumental in overcoming the paradox between VP and PA. This study affirms the positive value of VP in fostering the use of construction dispute mediation.

]]>
The value of voluntary participation in construction dispute mediation10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1070Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNan CaoSai On CheungEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-2610.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1070https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1070/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Safety climate in construction: a systematic literature reviewhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1074/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSafety climate plays an important role in the high-risk construction industry. Advances have been made in the understanding of construction safety climate in terms of four interrelated themes, specifically, its definition, measurement, antecedents and consequences. However, knowledge remains fragmented as the studies are scattered, and a systematic review covering these four themes is lacking. To address this research gap, this study aims to perform a systematic literature review of construction safety climate literature regarding the four themes. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol guidelines, 178 eligible articles were obtained. This study provided thematic analysis of the 178 papers to identify what is known and what is not yet fully known regarding the four themes of construction safety climate. This study also conducted a descriptive analysis to identify the influential scholars, keywords, theories and research methods used by the literature, and finally presented an integrative framework directing future research. The literature has not reached a consensus on the definition and measurement of construction safety climate. While it has identified the impact of safety climate on both behavioral and accident consequences, it has paid less attention to the antecedents and their underlying mechanisms regarding safety climate. Fang D. and Lingard H. are identified as the most influential authors in this field. “Questionnaire” and “safety behavior” are the keywords most closely related to safety climate. Unfortunately, the existing evidence for the causal relationships between safety climate and its antecedents and consequences is weak, as many studies lack clear theoretical substance, use a concurrent research design and focus only on individual-level climate perceptions. Finally, to support the development of construction safety climate around the four themes, potential research directions and research methods supporting them are illustrated. This review makes contributions by integrating existing construction studies covering its definition, measurement, antecedents and consequences. This review also makes contributions to specific themes: no review exists on the antecedents of construction safety climate, and this review fills that gap; with regard to consequences, the existing reviews focus either on safety outcomes or safety behavior, but this review included both of them and further elaborated the different theories underpinning the relationships between safety climate and them. It is hoped that this systematic review will be helpful to the research community toward developing a nomologic network and promoting knowledge integration with respect to construction safety climate.Safety climate in construction: a systematic literature review
Nini Xia, Sichao Ding, Tao Ling, Yuchun Tang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Safety climate plays an important role in the high-risk construction industry. Advances have been made in the understanding of construction safety climate in terms of four interrelated themes, specifically, its definition, measurement, antecedents and consequences. However, knowledge remains fragmented as the studies are scattered, and a systematic review covering these four themes is lacking. To address this research gap, this study aims to perform a systematic literature review of construction safety climate literature regarding the four themes.

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol guidelines, 178 eligible articles were obtained. This study provided thematic analysis of the 178 papers to identify what is known and what is not yet fully known regarding the four themes of construction safety climate. This study also conducted a descriptive analysis to identify the influential scholars, keywords, theories and research methods used by the literature, and finally presented an integrative framework directing future research.

The literature has not reached a consensus on the definition and measurement of construction safety climate. While it has identified the impact of safety climate on both behavioral and accident consequences, it has paid less attention to the antecedents and their underlying mechanisms regarding safety climate. Fang D. and Lingard H. are identified as the most influential authors in this field. “Questionnaire” and “safety behavior” are the keywords most closely related to safety climate. Unfortunately, the existing evidence for the causal relationships between safety climate and its antecedents and consequences is weak, as many studies lack clear theoretical substance, use a concurrent research design and focus only on individual-level climate perceptions. Finally, to support the development of construction safety climate around the four themes, potential research directions and research methods supporting them are illustrated.

This review makes contributions by integrating existing construction studies covering its definition, measurement, antecedents and consequences. This review also makes contributions to specific themes: no review exists on the antecedents of construction safety climate, and this review fills that gap; with regard to consequences, the existing reviews focus either on safety outcomes or safety behavior, but this review included both of them and further elaborated the different theories underpinning the relationships between safety climate and them. It is hoped that this systematic review will be helpful to the research community toward developing a nomologic network and promoting knowledge integration with respect to construction safety climate.

]]>
Safety climate in construction: a systematic literature review10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1074Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-12© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNini XiaSichao DingTao LingYuchun TangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1210.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1074https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1074/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Understanding competency requirements in the context of AEC industry informatization: policy insights from Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1080/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe increasing adoption of informatization in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries has raised the competency requirements for AEC practitioners. However, existing research primarily focuses on the integration of emerging technologies in AEC education programs, with little attention to the development of informatization-related competencies. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the competency requirements in the information age of the AEC industry. Taking a policy perspective, this study investigates the competency requirements within the context of AEC industry informatization. By employing a competency-based theoretical framework, content analysis is conducted on China's policy document, the Outline of the Development of Informatization in the Construction Industry. The study identifies crucial emerging technologies in the AEC industry, such as building information modeling (BIM), Big Data, Internet of things, networking, and cloud computing, along with their application scenarios. It considers various market players, including survey and design institutes, construction companies, and general contracting enterprises. Comparative analysis reveals the technology application patterns of these market players, shedding light on their preferences and perspectives. Based on these findings, the study proposes recommendations for competency requirements in the AEC industry. This study extends the competency-based theory to AEC education from a macro perspective. The findings enhance understanding of informatization by providing insights into the related technologies, their applications, and the market players utilizing them. Moreover, the study's results have significant implications for AEC education, particularly in the design of curriculum systems for emerging technology-related fields.Understanding competency requirements in the context of AEC industry informatization: policy insights from China
Xiaowei Zhou, Yousong Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The increasing adoption of informatization in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries has raised the competency requirements for AEC practitioners. However, existing research primarily focuses on the integration of emerging technologies in AEC education programs, with little attention to the development of informatization-related competencies. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the competency requirements in the information age of the AEC industry.

Taking a policy perspective, this study investigates the competency requirements within the context of AEC industry informatization. By employing a competency-based theoretical framework, content analysis is conducted on China's policy document, the Outline of the Development of Informatization in the Construction Industry.

The study identifies crucial emerging technologies in the AEC industry, such as building information modeling (BIM), Big Data, Internet of things, networking, and cloud computing, along with their application scenarios. It considers various market players, including survey and design institutes, construction companies, and general contracting enterprises. Comparative analysis reveals the technology application patterns of these market players, shedding light on their preferences and perspectives. Based on these findings, the study proposes recommendations for competency requirements in the AEC industry.

This study extends the competency-based theory to AEC education from a macro perspective. The findings enhance understanding of informatization by providing insights into the related technologies, their applications, and the market players utilizing them. Moreover, the study's results have significant implications for AEC education, particularly in the design of curriculum systems for emerging technology-related fields.

]]>
Understanding competency requirements in the context of AEC industry informatization: policy insights from China10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1080Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiaowei ZhouYousong WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2110.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1080https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1080/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessing the development and multidimensional constraints of the high-quality construction industry in the Chengdu-Chongqing twin-city economic circlehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1093/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe construction industry accounts for a large proportion of the economy of developing countries, but the connotation and influencing factors of high-quality development (HQD) are still unclear. This study aims to gain a more comprehensive insight into the current development status of the regional construction industry under China's HQD orientation and the obstructive factors affecting its development and to provide informative suggestions for its HQD prospects. In this study, the construction industry of 16 cities in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle (CCEC), a new region in southwest China, was used as the research object to collect data from the 2006–2019 yearbooks, construct an evaluation index system for HQD of the construction industry, derive the development level of the construction industry using the entropy value method and spatial autocorrelation method and then apply the barrier Diagnostic model was used to compare and analyze the impact level of each index. In terms of the time dimension, the development of the construction industry in CCEC is characterized by “high in the twin core and low in the surrounding area”, with unbalanced and insufficient development; in terms of spatial correlation, some factors have positive aggregation in spatial distribution, but the peripheral linkage decreases; through barrier analysis, the impact of different barrier factors is different. This paper will help governments and enterprises in developing countries to make urban planning and management policies to fundamentally improve the development of the construction industry in underdeveloped regions.Assessing the development and multidimensional constraints of the high-quality construction industry in the Chengdu-Chongqing twin-city economic circle
Jiangjun Wan, Yuxin Zhao, Miaojie Chen, Xi Zhu, Qingyu Lu, Yuwei Huang, Yutong Zhao, Chengyan Zhang, Wei Zhu, Jinxiu Yang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The construction industry accounts for a large proportion of the economy of developing countries, but the connotation and influencing factors of high-quality development (HQD) are still unclear. This study aims to gain a more comprehensive insight into the current development status of the regional construction industry under China's HQD orientation and the obstructive factors affecting its development and to provide informative suggestions for its HQD prospects.

In this study, the construction industry of 16 cities in the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle (CCEC), a new region in southwest China, was used as the research object to collect data from the 2006–2019 yearbooks, construct an evaluation index system for HQD of the construction industry, derive the development level of the construction industry using the entropy value method and spatial autocorrelation method and then apply the barrier Diagnostic model was used to compare and analyze the impact level of each index.

In terms of the time dimension, the development of the construction industry in CCEC is characterized by “high in the twin core and low in the surrounding area”, with unbalanced and insufficient development; in terms of spatial correlation, some factors have positive aggregation in spatial distribution, but the peripheral linkage decreases; through barrier analysis, the impact of different barrier factors is different.

This paper will help governments and enterprises in developing countries to make urban planning and management policies to fundamentally improve the development of the construction industry in underdeveloped regions.

]]>
Assessing the development and multidimensional constraints of the high-quality construction industry in the Chengdu-Chongqing twin-city economic circle10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1093Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-24© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedJiangjun WanYuxin ZhaoMiaojie ChenXi ZhuQingyu LuYuwei HuangYutong ZhaoChengyan ZhangWei ZhuJinxiu YangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-2410.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1093https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1093/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Comparative analysis between different risk score calculation approacheshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1097/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestTotal risk score (TRS) is considered one of the main indicators for risk evaluation. Several studies attempted to employ different types of risk indices for the evaluation of cost overrun causes. Hence, this study aims at performing a comparative analysis to evaluate the efficiency of three different approaches for TRS calculation. Thirty-eight unique causes of cost overrun in urban-related construction projects were identified and a survey was conducted among construction professionals in Iran. The TRS for each cost overrun cause is calculated using single-attribute (SA), double-attribute (DA), and multiple-attribute (MA) approaches, and eventually, causes were ranked. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA), logistic regression analysis (LRA), and K-means clustering are utilized to compare the differences in the generated TRS using different approaches. The results revealed that the TRS generated through the MA approach demonstrated the highest efficiency in terms of generating correlation between causes and their identified latent constructs, prediction capability, and classification of the influential causes in the same group. The originality of this study primarily stems from the adoption of statistical approaches in the evaluation of the recently introduced TRS calculation approach in comparison to traditional ones. Additionally, this study proposed a modified application of the relative importance index (RII) for risk prioritization. The results from this study are expected to fulfill the gap in previous literature toward exploring the most efficient TRS calculation approach for those researchers and practitioners who seek to utilize them as a measure to identify the influential cost overrun causes.Comparative analysis between different risk score calculation approaches
Iman Youssefi, Tolga Celik
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Total risk score (TRS) is considered one of the main indicators for risk evaluation. Several studies attempted to employ different types of risk indices for the evaluation of cost overrun causes. Hence, this study aims at performing a comparative analysis to evaluate the efficiency of three different approaches for TRS calculation.

Thirty-eight unique causes of cost overrun in urban-related construction projects were identified and a survey was conducted among construction professionals in Iran. The TRS for each cost overrun cause is calculated using single-attribute (SA), double-attribute (DA), and multiple-attribute (MA) approaches, and eventually, causes were ranked. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA), logistic regression analysis (LRA), and K-means clustering are utilized to compare the differences in the generated TRS using different approaches.

The results revealed that the TRS generated through the MA approach demonstrated the highest efficiency in terms of generating correlation between causes and their identified latent constructs, prediction capability, and classification of the influential causes in the same group.

The originality of this study primarily stems from the adoption of statistical approaches in the evaluation of the recently introduced TRS calculation approach in comparison to traditional ones. Additionally, this study proposed a modified application of the relative importance index (RII) for risk prioritization. The results from this study are expected to fulfill the gap in previous literature toward exploring the most efficient TRS calculation approach for those researchers and practitioners who seek to utilize them as a measure to identify the influential cost overrun causes.

]]>
Comparative analysis between different risk score calculation approaches10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1097Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedIman YoussefiTolga CelikEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1810.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1097https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1097/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Psychological contract between contractors and owners in construction projects: the mediating role of inter-organisational teamworkhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1099/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe objectives of this paper are to examine the impact of psychological contract on project performance in private construction projects and to investigate if the positive effect of psychological contract on project performance can be mediated by inter-organisational teamwork. Multiple regression analysis and mediation analysis were applied in this study to conduct the proposed hypotheses. Data were collected via questionnaire surveys from the construction professionals working for contractor firms on private construction projects. The result of the multiple regression analysis indicated that psychological contract between contractors and owners is significantly related with project performance in construction projects. This study examined five psychological contract components, but the most important element was found as trust which can influence every aspect of project performance. Fairness is another key factor that can improve project performance in terms of budget and quality. Further, the findings of the mediation analysis revealed that inter-organisational teamwork has a mediating effect on the relationship between psychological contract and project performance. This paper presents the important role of psychological contract between contractor and owner organizations in construction projects that can affect project performance. The study also highlights the significance of inter-organisational teamwork as a mediator to the relationship between psychological contract and project performance.Psychological contract between contractors and owners in construction projects: the mediating role of inter-organisational teamwork
Win Myat Cho, Bonaventura H.W. Hadikusumo
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The objectives of this paper are to examine the impact of psychological contract on project performance in private construction projects and to investigate if the positive effect of psychological contract on project performance can be mediated by inter-organisational teamwork.

Multiple regression analysis and mediation analysis were applied in this study to conduct the proposed hypotheses. Data were collected via questionnaire surveys from the construction professionals working for contractor firms on private construction projects.

The result of the multiple regression analysis indicated that psychological contract between contractors and owners is significantly related with project performance in construction projects. This study examined five psychological contract components, but the most important element was found as trust which can influence every aspect of project performance. Fairness is another key factor that can improve project performance in terms of budget and quality. Further, the findings of the mediation analysis revealed that inter-organisational teamwork has a mediating effect on the relationship between psychological contract and project performance.

This paper presents the important role of psychological contract between contractor and owner organizations in construction projects that can affect project performance. The study also highlights the significance of inter-organisational teamwork as a mediator to the relationship between psychological contract and project performance.

]]>
Psychological contract between contractors and owners in construction projects: the mediating role of inter-organisational teamwork10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1099Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-07© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWin Myat ChoBonaventura H.W. HadikusumoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-0710.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1099https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1099/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
A contingency approach for time-cost trade-off in construction projects based on machine learning techniqueshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1104/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestTime-cost trade-off is normal conduct in construction projects when projects are expectedly late for delivery. Existing research on time-cost trade-off strategic management mostly focused on the technical calculation towards the optimal combination of activities to be accelerated, while the managerial aspects are mostly neglected. This paper aims to understand the managerial efforts necessary to prepare construction projects ready for an upcoming trade-off implementation. A preliminary list of critical factors was first identified from the literature and verified by a Delphi survey. Quantitative data was then collected by a questionnaire survey to first shortlist the preliminary factors and quantify the predictive model with different machine learning algorithms, i.e. k-nearest neighbours (kNN), radial basis function (RBF), multiplayer perceptron (MLP), multinomial logistic regression (MLR), naïve Bayes classifier (NBC) and Bayesian belief networks (BBNs). The model's independent variable importance ranking revealed that the top challenges faced were the realism of contractual obligation, contractor planning and control and client management and monitoring. Among the tested machine learning algorithms, multilayer perceptron was demonstrated to be the most suitable in this case. This model accuracy reached 96.5% with the training dataset and 95.6% with an independent test dataset and could be used as the contingency approach for time-cost trade-offs. The identified factor list contributed to the theoretical explanation of the failed implementation in general and practical managerial improvement to better avoid such failure. In addition, the established predictive model provided an ad-hoc early warning and diagnostic tool to better ensure time-cost implementation success.A contingency approach for time-cost trade-off in construction projects based on machine learning techniques
Peipei Wang, Kun Wang, Yunhan Huang, Peter Fenn
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Time-cost trade-off is normal conduct in construction projects when projects are expectedly late for delivery. Existing research on time-cost trade-off strategic management mostly focused on the technical calculation towards the optimal combination of activities to be accelerated, while the managerial aspects are mostly neglected. This paper aims to understand the managerial efforts necessary to prepare construction projects ready for an upcoming trade-off implementation.

A preliminary list of critical factors was first identified from the literature and verified by a Delphi survey. Quantitative data was then collected by a questionnaire survey to first shortlist the preliminary factors and quantify the predictive model with different machine learning algorithms, i.e. k-nearest neighbours (kNN), radial basis function (RBF), multiplayer perceptron (MLP), multinomial logistic regression (MLR), naïve Bayes classifier (NBC) and Bayesian belief networks (BBNs).

The model's independent variable importance ranking revealed that the top challenges faced were the realism of contractual obligation, contractor planning and control and client management and monitoring. Among the tested machine learning algorithms, multilayer perceptron was demonstrated to be the most suitable in this case. This model accuracy reached 96.5% with the training dataset and 95.6% with an independent test dataset and could be used as the contingency approach for time-cost trade-offs.

The identified factor list contributed to the theoretical explanation of the failed implementation in general and practical managerial improvement to better avoid such failure. In addition, the established predictive model provided an ad-hoc early warning and diagnostic tool to better ensure time-cost implementation success.

]]>
A contingency approach for time-cost trade-off in construction projects based on machine learning techniques10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1104Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedPeipei WangKun WangYunhan HuangPeter FennEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2910.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1104https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1104/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Assessment criteria for inter-organizational collaboration in interconnected infrastructure projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1109/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSocieties depend on interconnected infrastructures that are becoming more complex over the years. Multi-disciplinary knowledge and skills are essential to develop modern infrastructures, requiring close collaboration of various infrastructure owners. To effectively manage and improve inter-organizational collaboration (IOC) in infrastructure construction projects, collaboration status should be assessed continually. This study identifies the assessment criteria, forming the foundation of a tool for assessing the status of IOC in interconnected infrastructure projects. A systematic literature study and in-depth semi-structured interviews with practitioners in interconnected infrastructure construction projects in the Netherlands are performed to identify the criteria for assessing the status of IOC in infrastructure construction projects, based on which an assessment tool is developed. The identified assessment criteria through the literature and the practitioner’s perspectives results in the designing and development of a collaboration assessment tool. The assessment tool consists of 12 criteria and 36 sub-criteria from three different categories of collaborative capacity: individual, relational, and organizational. The assessment tool enables practitioners to monitor the status of IOC between infrastructure owners and assists them in making informed decisions to enhance collaboration. The assessment tool provides the opportunity to assess and analyze the status of collaboration based on three categories (i.e., individual, relational, and organizational).Assessment criteria for inter-organizational collaboration in interconnected infrastructure projects
Maryam R. Nezami, Mark L.C. de Bruijne, Marcel J.C.M. Hertogh, Hans L.M. Bakker
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Societies depend on interconnected infrastructures that are becoming more complex over the years. Multi-disciplinary knowledge and skills are essential to develop modern infrastructures, requiring close collaboration of various infrastructure owners. To effectively manage and improve inter-organizational collaboration (IOC) in infrastructure construction projects, collaboration status should be assessed continually. This study identifies the assessment criteria, forming the foundation of a tool for assessing the status of IOC in interconnected infrastructure projects.

A systematic literature study and in-depth semi-structured interviews with practitioners in interconnected infrastructure construction projects in the Netherlands are performed to identify the criteria for assessing the status of IOC in infrastructure construction projects, based on which an assessment tool is developed.

The identified assessment criteria through the literature and the practitioner’s perspectives results in the designing and development of a collaboration assessment tool. The assessment tool consists of 12 criteria and 36 sub-criteria from three different categories of collaborative capacity: individual, relational, and organizational.

The assessment tool enables practitioners to monitor the status of IOC between infrastructure owners and assists them in making informed decisions to enhance collaboration. The assessment tool provides the opportunity to assess and analyze the status of collaboration based on three categories (i.e., individual, relational, and organizational).

]]>
Assessment criteria for inter-organizational collaboration in interconnected infrastructure projects10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1109Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-27© 2024 Maryam R. Nezami, Mark L.C. de Bruijne, Marcel J.C.M. Hertogh and Hans L.M. BakkerMaryam R. NezamiMark L.C. de BruijneMarcel J.C.M. HertoghHans L.M. BakkerEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2710.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1109https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1109/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Maryam R. Nezami, Mark L.C. de Bruijne, Marcel J.C.M. Hertogh and Hans L.M. Bakkerhttp://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0/legalcode
A practical approach of partial striking technique in high-rise buildingshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1112/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research proposes a viable method of slab and shore load computation for the partial striking technique utilized in high-rise construction projects to optimize the use of horizontal formwork. The proposed Partial Striking Simplified Method (PSSM) is designed to be utilized by industry practitioners to schedule the construction operations of casting floors in order to control the formwork costs incurred throughout the completion of a project. The article presents the PSSM for calculating slab and shore loads in multi-story building construction. It introduces the concept of “clearing before striking,” where shore supports are partially removed after a few days of pouring fresh concrete. The PSSM procedure is validated through numerical analysis and compared to other simplified approaches. Additionally, a user-friendly Python program based on the PSSM procedure is developed to explore the capability of the PSSM procedure and is used to study the variations in slab load, shoring level, concrete grade and cycle time. The study successfully developed a more efficient and reliable method for estimating the loads on shores and slabs using partial striking techniques for multi-story building construction. Compared to other simplified approaches, the PSSM procedure is simpler and more precise, as demonstrated through numerical analysis. The mean of shore and slab load ratios are 1.08 and 1.07, respectively, which seems to have a slight standard deviation of 0.29 and 0.21 with 3D numerical analysis. The Python program developed for load estimation is effective in exploring the capability of the proposed PSSM procedure. The Python program's ability to identify the floor under maximum load and determine the specific construction stage provides valuable insights for multi-story construction, enabling informed decision-making and optimization of construction methods. High-rise construction in Indian cities is booming, though this trend is not shared by all the country's major metropolitan areas. The growing construction sector in urban cities demands rapid construction for efficient utilization of formwork to control the construction costs of project. The proposed procedure is the best option to optimize the formwork construction cost, construction cycle time, the suitable formwork system with optimum cost, concrete grade for the adopted level of shoring in partaking and many more. The proposed PSSM reduces the calculation complexity of the existing simplified method. This is done by considering the identical slab stiffness and identical shore layout for uniform load distribution throughout the structure. This procedure utilizes a two-step load distribution calculation for clearing phase. Initially, the 66% prop load of highest floor level is distributed uniformly over the lower interconnected slabs. In the second step, the total prop load is removed equally from all slabs below it. This makes the load distribution user-friendly for the industry expert.A practical approach of partial striking technique in high-rise buildings
Arti Sahu, S. Shanmugapriya
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research proposes a viable method of slab and shore load computation for the partial striking technique utilized in high-rise construction projects to optimize the use of horizontal formwork. The proposed Partial Striking Simplified Method (PSSM) is designed to be utilized by industry practitioners to schedule the construction operations of casting floors in order to control the formwork costs incurred throughout the completion of a project.

The article presents the PSSM for calculating slab and shore loads in multi-story building construction. It introduces the concept of “clearing before striking,” where shore supports are partially removed after a few days of pouring fresh concrete. The PSSM procedure is validated through numerical analysis and compared to other simplified approaches. Additionally, a user-friendly Python program based on the PSSM procedure is developed to explore the capability of the PSSM procedure and is used to study the variations in slab load, shoring level, concrete grade and cycle time.

The study successfully developed a more efficient and reliable method for estimating the loads on shores and slabs using partial striking techniques for multi-story building construction. Compared to other simplified approaches, the PSSM procedure is simpler and more precise, as demonstrated through numerical analysis. The mean of shore and slab load ratios are 1.08 and 1.07, respectively, which seems to have a slight standard deviation of 0.29 and 0.21 with 3D numerical analysis. The Python program developed for load estimation is effective in exploring the capability of the proposed PSSM procedure. The Python program's ability to identify the floor under maximum load and determine the specific construction stage provides valuable insights for multi-story construction, enabling informed decision-making and optimization of construction methods.

High-rise construction in Indian cities is booming, though this trend is not shared by all the country's major metropolitan areas. The growing construction sector in urban cities demands rapid construction for efficient utilization of formwork to control the construction costs of project. The proposed procedure is the best option to optimize the formwork construction cost, construction cycle time, the suitable formwork system with optimum cost, concrete grade for the adopted level of shoring in partaking and many more.

The proposed PSSM reduces the calculation complexity of the existing simplified method. This is done by considering the identical slab stiffness and identical shore layout for uniform load distribution throughout the structure. This procedure utilizes a two-step load distribution calculation for clearing phase. Initially, the 66% prop load of highest floor level is distributed uniformly over the lower interconnected slabs. In the second step, the total prop load is removed equally from all slabs below it. This makes the load distribution user-friendly for the industry expert.

]]>
A practical approach of partial striking technique in high-rise buildings10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1112Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedArti SahuS. ShanmugapriyaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1310.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1112https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1112/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Digital twins in lean construction: a neutrosophic AHP – BOCR analysis approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1115/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIncreasing complexity in construction projects evokes interest in application of innovative digital technologies in construction. Digital twins (DT), which bring these innovative technologies together, have strong interactions with lean construction (LC). To highlight the collaborative nature of DT and LC, the paper explores the interactions between LC and DT and assesses benefits, costs, opportunities and risks (BOCR) of DT in LC to analyze significant obstacles and enablers in DT adoption in LC. BOCR approach comprehensively considers both the positive and the negative attributes of a problem. At the first step, BOCR criteria for DT are identified through literature review and expert opinions, at the second step dependencies among BOCR criteria for DT in LC are determined by neutrosophic analytic hierarchy process (AHP), through a questionnaire survey. Integrating BOCR into neutrosophic AHP enables achieving more meaningful preference scores. Cost of skilled workforce is the most important factor and opportunity to reduce waste is the second most important factor in adoption of DT in LC. The results were analyzed to rank the BOCR of adoption of DT in LC. This study, in a novel way, performs BOCR analysis through neutrosophic AHP to reflect experts' judgments more effectively by neutrosophic AHP's better handling of vagueness and uncertainty. The paper provides a model to better understand the significant factors that influence adoption of DT in LC.Digital twins in lean construction: a neutrosophic AHP – BOCR analysis approach
Ebru Altan, Zeynep Işık
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Increasing complexity in construction projects evokes interest in application of innovative digital technologies in construction. Digital twins (DT), which bring these innovative technologies together, have strong interactions with lean construction (LC). To highlight the collaborative nature of DT and LC, the paper explores the interactions between LC and DT and assesses benefits, costs, opportunities and risks (BOCR) of DT in LC to analyze significant obstacles and enablers in DT adoption in LC.

BOCR approach comprehensively considers both the positive and the negative attributes of a problem. At the first step, BOCR criteria for DT are identified through literature review and expert opinions, at the second step dependencies among BOCR criteria for DT in LC are determined by neutrosophic analytic hierarchy process (AHP), through a questionnaire survey. Integrating BOCR into neutrosophic AHP enables achieving more meaningful preference scores.

Cost of skilled workforce is the most important factor and opportunity to reduce waste is the second most important factor in adoption of DT in LC. The results were analyzed to rank the BOCR of adoption of DT in LC.

This study, in a novel way, performs BOCR analysis through neutrosophic AHP to reflect experts' judgments more effectively by neutrosophic AHP's better handling of vagueness and uncertainty. The paper provides a model to better understand the significant factors that influence adoption of DT in LC.

]]>
Digital twins in lean construction: a neutrosophic AHP – BOCR analysis approach10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1115Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-30© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedEbru AltanZeynep IşıkEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-3010.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1115https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2022-1115/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Applications of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management: a literature reviewhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1095/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestWith increasing complexity of construction projects and new construction processes and methods are adopted, more safety hazards are emerging at construction sites, requiring the application of the modern risk management methods. As an emerging technology, digital twin has already made valuable contributions to safety risk management in many fields. Therefore, exploring the application of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management is of great significance. The purpose of this study is to explore the current research status and application potential of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management. This study followed a four-stage literature processing approach as outlined in the systematic literature review procedure guidelines. It then combined the quantitative analysis tools and qualitative analysis methods to organize and summarize the current research status of digital twin technology in the field of construction safety risk management, analyze the application of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management and identify future research trends. The research findings indicate that the application of digital twin technology in the field of construction safety risk management is still in its early stages. Based on the results of the literature analysis, this paper summarizes five aspects of digital twin technology's application in construction safety risk management: real-time monitoring and early warning, safety risk prediction and assessment, accident simulation and emergency response, safety risk management decision support and safety training and education. It also proposes future research trends based on the current research challenges. This study provides valuable references for the extended application of digital twin technology and offers a new perspective and approach for modern construction safety risk management. It contributes to the enhancement of the theoretical framework for construction safety risk management and the improvement of on-site construction safety.Applications of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management: a literature review
Qianmai Luo, Chengshuang Sun, Ying Li, Zhenqiang Qi, Guozong Zhang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

With increasing complexity of construction projects and new construction processes and methods are adopted, more safety hazards are emerging at construction sites, requiring the application of the modern risk management methods. As an emerging technology, digital twin has already made valuable contributions to safety risk management in many fields. Therefore, exploring the application of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management is of great significance. The purpose of this study is to explore the current research status and application potential of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management.

This study followed a four-stage literature processing approach as outlined in the systematic literature review procedure guidelines. It then combined the quantitative analysis tools and qualitative analysis methods to organize and summarize the current research status of digital twin technology in the field of construction safety risk management, analyze the application of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management and identify future research trends.

The research findings indicate that the application of digital twin technology in the field of construction safety risk management is still in its early stages. Based on the results of the literature analysis, this paper summarizes five aspects of digital twin technology's application in construction safety risk management: real-time monitoring and early warning, safety risk prediction and assessment, accident simulation and emergency response, safety risk management decision support and safety training and education. It also proposes future research trends based on the current research challenges.

This study provides valuable references for the extended application of digital twin technology and offers a new perspective and approach for modern construction safety risk management. It contributes to the enhancement of the theoretical framework for construction safety risk management and the improvement of on-site construction safety.

]]>
Applications of digital twin technology in construction safety risk management: a literature review10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1095Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-22© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedQianmai LuoChengshuang SunYing LiZhenqiang QiGuozong ZhangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2210.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1095https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1095/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Impact of self-efficacy on construction labor productivity: the mediating role of work motivationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1114/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThough widely recognized as essential for improving work performance across various domains, self-efficacy’s specific role in managing construction workforces remains understudied. This knowledge gap restricts our ability to uncover new factors that enhance workforce management effectiveness and ultimately boost construction labor productivity (CLP). To address this, our study proposes and tests a novel model. This model explores the impact mechanism of self-efficacy on CLP by investigating the mediating role of work motivation. By delving into this crucial yet underexplored area, we aim to provide valuable insights for construction project managers and researchers alike, paving the way for more effective workforce management strategies and consequently, improved CLP. This study utilizes a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data from 112 rebar workers at five construction sites in Vietnam underwent analysis using Cronbach’s alpha, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the novel research model. The results indicate a positive and significant association between self-efficacy and CLP. Additionally, work motivation emerged as a full mediator in the relationship between self-efficacy and CLP. Specifically, individuals with higher self-efficacy set ambitious goals and invest more effort in their pursuit, leading to increased work motivation and, ultimately, heightened productivity levels. The significant implications of the current study extend to construction managers and policymakers alike. Construction managers can leverage the findings to devise targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the self-efficacy and work motivation of their workforce, potentially resulting in noteworthy enhancements in CLP. Policymakers, too, can benefit from these findings by formulating policies that actively support the cultivation of self-efficacy and work motivation among construction workers. Such policies have the potential to foster a more productive and efficient construction industry, aligning with the broader goals of workforce development and industry enhancement. This study expands existing knowledge by identifying the important role of self-efficacy in work performance enhancement and the mediating role of work motivation in terms of these relationships.Impact of self-efficacy on construction labor productivity: the mediating role of work motivation
Nguyen Van Tam
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Though widely recognized as essential for improving work performance across various domains, self-efficacy’s specific role in managing construction workforces remains understudied. This knowledge gap restricts our ability to uncover new factors that enhance workforce management effectiveness and ultimately boost construction labor productivity (CLP). To address this, our study proposes and tests a novel model. This model explores the impact mechanism of self-efficacy on CLP by investigating the mediating role of work motivation. By delving into this crucial yet underexplored area, we aim to provide valuable insights for construction project managers and researchers alike, paving the way for more effective workforce management strategies and consequently, improved CLP.

This study utilizes a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data from 112 rebar workers at five construction sites in Vietnam underwent analysis using Cronbach’s alpha, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the novel research model.

The results indicate a positive and significant association between self-efficacy and CLP. Additionally, work motivation emerged as a full mediator in the relationship between self-efficacy and CLP. Specifically, individuals with higher self-efficacy set ambitious goals and invest more effort in their pursuit, leading to increased work motivation and, ultimately, heightened productivity levels.

The significant implications of the current study extend to construction managers and policymakers alike. Construction managers can leverage the findings to devise targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the self-efficacy and work motivation of their workforce, potentially resulting in noteworthy enhancements in CLP. Policymakers, too, can benefit from these findings by formulating policies that actively support the cultivation of self-efficacy and work motivation among construction workers. Such policies have the potential to foster a more productive and efficient construction industry, aligning with the broader goals of workforce development and industry enhancement.

This study expands existing knowledge by identifying the important role of self-efficacy in work performance enhancement and the mediating role of work motivation in terms of these relationships.

]]>
Impact of self-efficacy on construction labor productivity: the mediating role of work motivation10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1114Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-20© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedNguyen Van TamEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-2010.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1114https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1114/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Automatic lift path planning of prefabricated building components using semantic BIM, improved A* and GAhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1119/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPrefabricated building has been widely applied in the construction industry all over the world, which can significantly reduce labor consumption and improve construction efficiency compared with conventional approaches. During the construction of prefabricated buildings, the overall efficiency largely depends on the lifting sequence and path of each prefabricated component. To improve the efficiency and safety of the lifting process, this study proposes a framework for automatically optimizing the lifting path of prefabricated building components using building information modeling (BIM), improved 3D-A* and a physic-informed genetic algorithm (GA). Firstly, the industry foundation class (IFC) schema for prefabricated buildings is established to enrich the semantic information of BIM. After extracting corresponding component attributes from BIM, the models of typical prefabricated components and their slings are simplified. Further, the slings and elements’ rotations are considered to build a safety bounding box. Secondly, an efficient 3D-A* is proposed for element path planning by integrating both safety factors and variable step size. Finally, an efficient GA is designed to obtain the optimal lifting sequence that satisfies physical constraints. The proposed optimization framework is validated in a physics engine with a pilot project, which enables better understanding. The results show that the framework can intuitively and automatically generate the optimal lifting path for each type of prefabricated building component. Compared with traditional algorithms, the improved path planning algorithm significantly reduces the number of nodes computed by 91.48%, resulting in a notable decrease in search time by 75.68%. In this study, a prefabricated component path planning framework based on the improved A* algorithm and GA is proposed for the first time. In addition, this study proposes a safety-bounding box that considers the effects of torsion and slinging of components during lifting. The semantic information of IFC for component lifting is enriched by taking into account lifting data such as binding positions, lifting methods, lifting angles and lifting offsets.Automatic lift path planning of prefabricated building components using semantic BIM, improved A* and GA
Keyu Chen, Beiyu You, Yanbo Zhang, Zhengyi Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Prefabricated building has been widely applied in the construction industry all over the world, which can significantly reduce labor consumption and improve construction efficiency compared with conventional approaches. During the construction of prefabricated buildings, the overall efficiency largely depends on the lifting sequence and path of each prefabricated component. To improve the efficiency and safety of the lifting process, this study proposes a framework for automatically optimizing the lifting path of prefabricated building components using building information modeling (BIM), improved 3D-A* and a physic-informed genetic algorithm (GA).

Firstly, the industry foundation class (IFC) schema for prefabricated buildings is established to enrich the semantic information of BIM. After extracting corresponding component attributes from BIM, the models of typical prefabricated components and their slings are simplified. Further, the slings and elements’ rotations are considered to build a safety bounding box. Secondly, an efficient 3D-A* is proposed for element path planning by integrating both safety factors and variable step size. Finally, an efficient GA is designed to obtain the optimal lifting sequence that satisfies physical constraints.

The proposed optimization framework is validated in a physics engine with a pilot project, which enables better understanding. The results show that the framework can intuitively and automatically generate the optimal lifting path for each type of prefabricated building component. Compared with traditional algorithms, the improved path planning algorithm significantly reduces the number of nodes computed by 91.48%, resulting in a notable decrease in search time by 75.68%.

In this study, a prefabricated component path planning framework based on the improved A* algorithm and GA is proposed for the first time. In addition, this study proposes a safety-bounding box that considers the effects of torsion and slinging of components during lifting. The semantic information of IFC for component lifting is enriched by taking into account lifting data such as binding positions, lifting methods, lifting angles and lifting offsets.

]]>
Automatic lift path planning of prefabricated building components using semantic BIM, improved A* and GA10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1119Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedKeyu ChenBeiyu YouYanbo ZhangZhengyi ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1119https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1119/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Benchmarking lean construction conformance in Pakistan’s construction industryhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1125/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestLean construction (LC) is an innovative approach in the construction industry that has shown significant success in developed countries. Although LC has potential in the construction sector of Pakistan, it has not been extensively explored. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by identifying and predicting current lean practices and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of LC implementation in Pakistan. Using robust statistical methods to analyze 92 valid responses, the study reveals that approximately 54% of lean practices are currently in use in the construction industry of Pakistan, with a population mean ranging from 52.7% to 55.6%. Surprisingly, the research identifies instances where some construction firms in Pakistan are implementing LC practices, even though they have only a limited understanding of its underlying principles. Notably, certain subprinciples, such as visual management, top management commitment to change, employee training, process cycle time reduction and production optimization, are less integrated within the construction industry. Exploring the possibility of implementing LC, recommendations for strategies to implement LC in Pakistan are suggested, aligning with the conceptual model proposed by the researchers. The novelty of this work offers insights that can serve as a comprehensive guide for developing nations. It provides a structured approach to assess and benchmark LC practices, which, in turn, can contribute to a more efficient and effective construction industry. Moreover, the strategies proposed in this research can aid developing countries in the efficient implementation of LC. This will have a positive implication for both economic and developmental outcomes.Benchmarking lean construction conformance in Pakistan’s construction industry
Mughees Aslam, Edmund Baffoe-Twum, Sohail Malik
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Lean construction (LC) is an innovative approach in the construction industry that has shown significant success in developed countries. Although LC has potential in the construction sector of Pakistan, it has not been extensively explored. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by identifying and predicting current lean practices and assessing the strengths and weaknesses of LC implementation in Pakistan.

Using robust statistical methods to analyze 92 valid responses, the study reveals that approximately 54% of lean practices are currently in use in the construction industry of Pakistan, with a population mean ranging from 52.7% to 55.6%.

Surprisingly, the research identifies instances where some construction firms in Pakistan are implementing LC practices, even though they have only a limited understanding of its underlying principles. Notably, certain subprinciples, such as visual management, top management commitment to change, employee training, process cycle time reduction and production optimization, are less integrated within the construction industry. Exploring the possibility of implementing LC, recommendations for strategies to implement LC in Pakistan are suggested, aligning with the conceptual model proposed by the researchers.

The novelty of this work offers insights that can serve as a comprehensive guide for developing nations. It provides a structured approach to assess and benchmark LC practices, which, in turn, can contribute to a more efficient and effective construction industry. Moreover, the strategies proposed in this research can aid developing countries in the efficient implementation of LC. This will have a positive implication for both economic and developmental outcomes.

]]>
Benchmarking lean construction conformance in Pakistan’s construction industry10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1125Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedMughees AslamEdmund Baffoe-TwumSohail MalikEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2610.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1125https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1125/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Analysing the interplay of isomorphic pressures, perceived benefits and top management support on social responsibility performance of Belt and Road megaprojectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1169/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to investigate the factors influencing the social responsibility performance of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) megaprojects. Specifically, it examines the role of isomorphic pressures and the joint influence of perceived benefits and top management support on megaproject social responsibility performance (MSRP). Drawing from institutional theory, social exchange theory, and top management literature, this study established a conceptual model featuring eleven hypotheses. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey was administered to collect data from 238 actively engaged participants in BRI megaprojects. Structural Equation Modelling was utilised to analyse the data. The empirical findings indicate that mimetic and coercive pressures positively influence MSRP. Perceived benefits and top management support significantly enhance MSRP. Moreover, perceived benefits and top management support partially mediate the effects of coercive and mimetic pressures. However, when it comes to normative pressures, their impact on MSRP is solely channelled through the support of top management. This study is one of the early endeavours to explore the factors influencing the social responsibility performance of BRI megaprojects. It sheds light on the interplay between external pressures and internal factors in shaping social responsibility efforts in these projects. These findings are of particular significance for BRI actors and stakeholders, offering guidance for enhancing social responsibility strategies within the context of BRI megaprojects.Analysing the interplay of isomorphic pressures, perceived benefits and top management support on social responsibility performance of Belt and Road megaprojects
Mohammed Taha Alqershy, Qian Shi, Diana R. Anbar
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the social responsibility performance of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) megaprojects. Specifically, it examines the role of isomorphic pressures and the joint influence of perceived benefits and top management support on megaproject social responsibility performance (MSRP).

Drawing from institutional theory, social exchange theory, and top management literature, this study established a conceptual model featuring eleven hypotheses. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey was administered to collect data from 238 actively engaged participants in BRI megaprojects. Structural Equation Modelling was utilised to analyse the data.

The empirical findings indicate that mimetic and coercive pressures positively influence MSRP. Perceived benefits and top management support significantly enhance MSRP. Moreover, perceived benefits and top management support partially mediate the effects of coercive and mimetic pressures. However, when it comes to normative pressures, their impact on MSRP is solely channelled through the support of top management.

This study is one of the early endeavours to explore the factors influencing the social responsibility performance of BRI megaprojects. It sheds light on the interplay between external pressures and internal factors in shaping social responsibility efforts in these projects. These findings are of particular significance for BRI actors and stakeholders, offering guidance for enhancing social responsibility strategies within the context of BRI megaprojects.

]]>
Analysing the interplay of isomorphic pressures, perceived benefits and top management support on social responsibility performance of Belt and Road megaprojects10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1169Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-15© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohammed Taha AlqershyQian ShiDiana R. AnbarEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1510.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1169https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1169/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing a multidimensional risk assessment model for sustainable construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1201/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestSustainable construction re-engineers the conventional project lifecycle to integrate sustainability solutions. The additional sustainability requirements introduce new layers of complexity, challenges and risks that if unaddressed, can derail the gains in sustainable construction projects. This study developed a multidimensional risk assessment model for sustainable construction projects in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The research activities a comprised comprehensive literature review to shortlist relevant risks, an analysis of the probability – impact rating of the shortlisted risks – and the development of a risk assessment model for SC projects in the UAE. The model is developed based on the multicriteria framework and mathematical formulation of the fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach. The developed model quantified the overall risk level in sustainable construction projects to be 3.71 on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating that investment in SC projects in the UAE is risky and should be carefully managed. The developed model further revealed that each of the risk groups, comprising management (3.82), technical (3.78), stakeholder (3.68), regulatory (3.66), material (3.53) and economic risks (3.502), presents a significant threat to realizing outcomes typical of SC projects. This study developed a multidimensional risk assessment model capable of objectively quantifying the overall risk level and provides decision support to project teams to improve risk management in sustainable construction projects.Developing a multidimensional risk assessment model for sustainable construction projects
Ibrahim Yahaya Wuni
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Sustainable construction re-engineers the conventional project lifecycle to integrate sustainability solutions. The additional sustainability requirements introduce new layers of complexity, challenges and risks that if unaddressed, can derail the gains in sustainable construction projects. This study developed a multidimensional risk assessment model for sustainable construction projects in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The research activities a comprised comprehensive literature review to shortlist relevant risks, an analysis of the probability – impact rating of the shortlisted risks – and the development of a risk assessment model for SC projects in the UAE. The model is developed based on the multicriteria framework and mathematical formulation of the fuzzy synthetic evaluation approach.

The developed model quantified the overall risk level in sustainable construction projects to be 3.71 on a 5-point Likert scale, indicating that investment in SC projects in the UAE is risky and should be carefully managed. The developed model further revealed that each of the risk groups, comprising management (3.82), technical (3.78), stakeholder (3.68), regulatory (3.66), material (3.53) and economic risks (3.502), presents a significant threat to realizing outcomes typical of SC projects.

This study developed a multidimensional risk assessment model capable of objectively quantifying the overall risk level and provides decision support to project teams to improve risk management in sustainable construction projects.

]]>
Developing a multidimensional risk assessment model for sustainable construction projects10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1201Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-29© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedIbrahim Yahaya WuniEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-2910.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1201https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-11-2023-1201/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Innovation through practicehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2017-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThrough the study of visualizations, virtual worlds and information exchange, the purpose of this paper is to reveal the complex connections between technology and the work of design and construction. The authors apply the sociotechnical view of technology and the ramifications this view has on successful use of technology in design and construction. This is a discussion paper reviewing over a decade of research that connects three streams of research on architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) teams as these teams grappled with adapting work practices to new technologies and the opportunities these technologies promised. From studies of design and construction practices with building information modeling and energy modeling, the authors show that given the constructed nature of models and the loose coupling of project teams, these team organizational practices need to mirror the modeling requirements. Second, looking at distributed teams, whose interaction is mediated by technology, the authors argue that virtual world visualizations enhance discovery, while distributed AEC teams also need more traditional forms of 2D abstraction, sketching and gestures to support integrated design dialogue. Finally, in information exchange research, the authors found that models and data have their own logic and structure and, as such, require creativity and ingenuity to exchange data across systems. Taken together, these streams of research suggest that process innovation is brought about by people developing new practices. In this paper, the authors argue that technology alone does not change practice. People who modify practices with and through technology create process innovation.Innovation through practice
Carrie Dossick, Laura Osburn, Gina Neff
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Through the study of visualizations, virtual worlds and information exchange, the purpose of this paper is to reveal the complex connections between technology and the work of design and construction. The authors apply the sociotechnical view of technology and the ramifications this view has on successful use of technology in design and construction.

This is a discussion paper reviewing over a decade of research that connects three streams of research on architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) teams as these teams grappled with adapting work practices to new technologies and the opportunities these technologies promised.

From studies of design and construction practices with building information modeling and energy modeling, the authors show that given the constructed nature of models and the loose coupling of project teams, these team organizational practices need to mirror the modeling requirements. Second, looking at distributed teams, whose interaction is mediated by technology, the authors argue that virtual world visualizations enhance discovery, while distributed AEC teams also need more traditional forms of 2D abstraction, sketching and gestures to support integrated design dialogue. Finally, in information exchange research, the authors found that models and data have their own logic and structure and, as such, require creativity and ingenuity to exchange data across systems. Taken together, these streams of research suggest that process innovation is brought about by people developing new practices.

In this paper, the authors argue that technology alone does not change practice. People who modify practices with and through technology create process innovation.

]]>
Innovation through practice10.1108/ECAM-12-2017-0272Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2019-02-21© 2019 Emerald Publishing LimitedCarrie DossickLaura OsburnGina NeffEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2019-02-2110.1108/ECAM-12-2017-0272https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2017-0272/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2019 Emerald Publishing Limited
Tackling stress of project management practitioners in the Australian construction industry: the causes, effects and alleviationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2020-1006/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe problem of stress is increasingly gaining attention in the construction industry in recent years. This study is aimed at examining the causes, effects and possible alleviation of stress of project management (PM) practitioners so that their stress could be appropriately managed and reduced, which would contribute to improved mental health. Primary data were collected in an online questionnaire survey via Qualtrics. Questions ranged from PM practitioners’ stressors, stress and performance under stress to stress alleviation tools and techniques. One hundred and five PM practitioners completed the questionnaire. Their responses were compiled and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression. The results confirmed that the identified stressors tended to increase stress of PM practitioners. All stressors tested in this study were found to have negative impact on the performance of PM practitioners. In particular, the burnout stressors were seen as the key stressors that influence the performance of PM practitioners and have a strong correlation with all the other stressors. It was also found that a number of tools and techniques can reduce the impact of stressors on PM practitioners. This study has taken a specific focus on stress-related issues of PM practitioners in the construction industry due to their critical role in this project-dominated industry. Using the Job Demand-Resource theory, a holistic examination was not only conducted on stress and stressors but also on alleviation tools and techniques. This study has thus made significant contribution to the ongoing research aimed at finding solutions to mental health-related problems in the project-dominated construction industry, thereby achieving the United Nations’ social sustainability development goals.Tackling stress of project management practitioners in the Australian construction industry: the causes, effects and alleviation
Xiao-Hua Jin, Sepani Senaratne, Ye Fu, Bashir Tijani
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The problem of stress is increasingly gaining attention in the construction industry in recent years. This study is aimed at examining the causes, effects and possible alleviation of stress of project management (PM) practitioners so that their stress could be appropriately managed and reduced, which would contribute to improved mental health.

Primary data were collected in an online questionnaire survey via Qualtrics. Questions ranged from PM practitioners’ stressors, stress and performance under stress to stress alleviation tools and techniques. One hundred and five PM practitioners completed the questionnaire. Their responses were compiled and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression.

The results confirmed that the identified stressors tended to increase stress of PM practitioners. All stressors tested in this study were found to have negative impact on the performance of PM practitioners. In particular, the burnout stressors were seen as the key stressors that influence the performance of PM practitioners and have a strong correlation with all the other stressors. It was also found that a number of tools and techniques can reduce the impact of stressors on PM practitioners.

This study has taken a specific focus on stress-related issues of PM practitioners in the construction industry due to their critical role in this project-dominated industry. Using the Job Demand-Resource theory, a holistic examination was not only conducted on stress and stressors but also on alleviation tools and techniques. This study has thus made significant contribution to the ongoing research aimed at finding solutions to mental health-related problems in the project-dominated construction industry, thereby achieving the United Nations’ social sustainability development goals.

]]>
Tackling stress of project management practitioners in the Australian construction industry: the causes, effects and alleviation10.1108/ECAM-12-2020-1006Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedXiao-Hua JinSepani SenaratneYe FuBashir TijaniEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-2710.1108/ECAM-12-2020-1006https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2020-1006/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Strategies for managing the political risk of investing in infrastructure projects, in developing countrieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1072/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestPolitical risk has been identified as a major impediment to the success of foreign invested projects, in developing countries. Infrastructure projects are especially sensitive to host-country political climates. Governance in emerging economies can be unstable, which adversely impacts infrastructure projects, given their high capital-intensity, long operational periods and high asset specificity. While the detrimental impact of political risk is well documented, the mitigation of such impacts on infrastructure projects remains largely unexamined. This study, therefore, addresses this by exploring the available identified political risk management (PRM) strategies based on resilience theory and evaluating their effectiveness. A mixed-method approach was employed to identify PRM strategies. Firstly, a comprehensive literature review identified 40 potential PRM strategies. However, the applicability of those 40 strategies was uncertain due to the scarcity of PRM studies. Thus, expert interviews, drawing on the insights of Chinese infrastructure industry professionals with experience in FII, were applied to review the identified strategies. This process reduced the pool of applicable strategies to 34. Subsequently, 356 questionnaires were sent out to investors from China, Australia and Singapore, with 218 valid responses returned. Based on the data collected from the surveys, statistical analysis was used to evaluate and classify applicable PRM strategies. Results reveal the most effective top five strategies for offsetting the detrimental effects of political risk on foreign infrastructure investment to be: (1) selection of suitable markets and projects; (2) maintaining good relationship with government; (3) purchasing political insurance; (4) utilizing capable contractors from both host country and home country; and (5) adopting an appropriate entry mode. The 34 strategies were further consolidated into four meta-strategies through factor analysis, resulting in the formulation of a strategy selection matrix. The findings of this study offer a rational means by which infrastructure investment practitioners considering projects in developing countries, may arrive at an optimal political risk mitigation strategy. The findings also offer government of host countries directives to improving the political environment in order to attract foreign investment flows into local infrastructure projects.Strategies for managing the political risk of investing in infrastructure projects, in developing countries
Weiling Jiang, Igor Martek
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Political risk has been identified as a major impediment to the success of foreign invested projects, in developing countries. Infrastructure projects are especially sensitive to host-country political climates. Governance in emerging economies can be unstable, which adversely impacts infrastructure projects, given their high capital-intensity, long operational periods and high asset specificity. While the detrimental impact of political risk is well documented, the mitigation of such impacts on infrastructure projects remains largely unexamined. This study, therefore, addresses this by exploring the available identified political risk management (PRM) strategies based on resilience theory and evaluating their effectiveness.

A mixed-method approach was employed to identify PRM strategies. Firstly, a comprehensive literature review identified 40 potential PRM strategies. However, the applicability of those 40 strategies was uncertain due to the scarcity of PRM studies. Thus, expert interviews, drawing on the insights of Chinese infrastructure industry professionals with experience in FII, were applied to review the identified strategies. This process reduced the pool of applicable strategies to 34. Subsequently, 356 questionnaires were sent out to investors from China, Australia and Singapore, with 218 valid responses returned. Based on the data collected from the surveys, statistical analysis was used to evaluate and classify applicable PRM strategies.

Results reveal the most effective top five strategies for offsetting the detrimental effects of political risk on foreign infrastructure investment to be: (1) selection of suitable markets and projects; (2) maintaining good relationship with government; (3) purchasing political insurance; (4) utilizing capable contractors from both host country and home country; and (5) adopting an appropriate entry mode. The 34 strategies were further consolidated into four meta-strategies through factor analysis, resulting in the formulation of a strategy selection matrix.

The findings of this study offer a rational means by which infrastructure investment practitioners considering projects in developing countries, may arrive at an optimal political risk mitigation strategy. The findings also offer government of host countries directives to improving the political environment in order to attract foreign investment flows into local infrastructure projects.

]]>
Strategies for managing the political risk of investing in infrastructure projects, in developing countries10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1072Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-04-17© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedWeiling JiangIgor MartekEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-04-1710.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1072https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1072/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
An integrated model for international market and entry mode selections for Chinese contractorshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1090/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestGiven their interrelationship, international market selection (IMS) and entry mode selection (EMS) must be considered jointly if an optimal entry strategy is to be realized. However, researchers in the field of international construction have the tendency to consider IMS and EMS independently or sequentially. Therefore, this paper aims to explore a holistic framework that can accommodate IMS and EMS concurrently and test it using empirical data. his study includes theoretical and empirical research. In theoretical part, an integrated decision model of IMS and EMS is proposed adopting literature review and theoretical derivation, then hypotheses are developed for the impact of decision-making factors. In the latter part, the IMS and EMS of 54 Chinese contractors in 67 countries were investigated, empirical data are collected according to hypotheses, an ordinal logistic regression model is established for statistics analysis. Finally, findings are drawn by comparing literature-based hypotheses with data-based analysis results. Results show that empirical data fit theoretical model well. Findings are: IMS and EMS can be integrated into a holistic decision-making framework when be properly sequenced. When IMS and EMS are determined simultaneously, the decision can benefit from a sharing of common information. And the roles of at least 13 common factors are empirically demonstrated in this study. The integrated decision sequence proposed in this study is applicable for a specific market, and cannot compare multiple alternative markets directly. The decision-making factors identified in this paper do not cover the enterprise strategic objectives and some other factors. Empirical data and some theoretical assumptions are based on the international market entry strategy of Chinese contractors. Therefore, the conclusions may not be completely applicable to global contractors though have certain reference value. Based on the idea of holistic decision-making of IMS and EMS, this study proposes an international market entry strategy (IMES) sequence and an explicit model for determinants, then tests them with empirical data. This paper provides a new idea to manage IMS and EMS concurrently, which can improve the efficiency of IMES decision-making and avoid missing optimal alternatives. This study paves the way for a practical model and provides reference for contractors' international market entry strategy.An integrated model for international market and entry mode selections for Chinese contractors
Liping Li, Chuan Chen, Igor Martek, Guanghua Li
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Given their interrelationship, international market selection (IMS) and entry mode selection (EMS) must be considered jointly if an optimal entry strategy is to be realized. However, researchers in the field of international construction have the tendency to consider IMS and EMS independently or sequentially. Therefore, this paper aims to explore a holistic framework that can accommodate IMS and EMS concurrently and test it using empirical data.

his study includes theoretical and empirical research. In theoretical part, an integrated decision model of IMS and EMS is proposed adopting literature review and theoretical derivation, then hypotheses are developed for the impact of decision-making factors. In the latter part, the IMS and EMS of 54 Chinese contractors in 67 countries were investigated, empirical data are collected according to hypotheses, an ordinal logistic regression model is established for statistics analysis. Finally, findings are drawn by comparing literature-based hypotheses with data-based analysis results.

Results show that empirical data fit theoretical model well. Findings are: IMS and EMS can be integrated into a holistic decision-making framework when be properly sequenced. When IMS and EMS are determined simultaneously, the decision can benefit from a sharing of common information. And the roles of at least 13 common factors are empirically demonstrated in this study.

The integrated decision sequence proposed in this study is applicable for a specific market, and cannot compare multiple alternative markets directly. The decision-making factors identified in this paper do not cover the enterprise strategic objectives and some other factors. Empirical data and some theoretical assumptions are based on the international market entry strategy of Chinese contractors. Therefore, the conclusions may not be completely applicable to global contractors though have certain reference value.

Based on the idea of holistic decision-making of IMS and EMS, this study proposes an international market entry strategy (IMES) sequence and an explicit model for determinants, then tests them with empirical data. This paper provides a new idea to manage IMS and EMS concurrently, which can improve the efficiency of IMES decision-making and avoid missing optimal alternatives. This study paves the way for a practical model and provides reference for contractors' international market entry strategy.

]]>
An integrated model for international market and entry mode selections for Chinese contractors10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1090Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-20© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedLiping LiChuan ChenIgor MartekGuanghua LiEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-2010.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1090https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1090/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Towards an integrative analysis of underground environment and human health: a survey and field measurement approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1120/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestDue to land resource scarcity, sustainable urban development in high-density cities has long been challenging. As such, many cities are formulating plans to “dig deep”, resulting in more citizens working and/or staying underground for longer periods of time. However, owing to the particularities of underground space, the factors involved in the creation of a healthy environment are different from those involved in aboveground developments. This study thus aims to investigate the influences of various underground environment factors on users' health through a holistic approach. To achieve this aim, 12 underground sites and 12 corresponding aboveground sites are selected for a large-scale questionnaire survey, resulting in 651 survey samples. The survey covers post-occupancy evaluation of health (physical and psychosocial), underground environmental quality (visual, thermal, acoustic comfort, indoor air quality and ventilation), space design and greenery. Independent-sample T-test, Pearson correlation, multiple regression modelling and structural equation modelling are used to investigate whether significant differences exist between health of underground and aboveground users, and to develop an underground environment-health model for unveiling the significant associations between underground environment factors and users' health. To cross validate the results, an objective field measurement study is further conducted on six underground sites. The objective measurement results are used to cross validate the survey results. The questionnaire results provide the following evidence: (1) health of underground users is significantly poorer than that of their aboveground counterparts; (2) underground development users' health is significantly affected by space design, greenery and environmental quality in terms of thermal comfort, indoor air quality, ventilation and acoustic comfort but not visual comfort; and (3) amongst the various identified factors, space design has the strongest predicting effects on human health. The field study echoes the survey findings and further unveils the relationships between different environmental factors and human health. The results shed light on the importance of distinguishing between underground developments and aboveground ones in various guidelines and standards, especially those related to space management.Towards an integrative analysis of underground environment and human health: a survey and field measurement approach
Isabelle Y.S. Chan, Hao Chen
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Due to land resource scarcity, sustainable urban development in high-density cities has long been challenging. As such, many cities are formulating plans to “dig deep”, resulting in more citizens working and/or staying underground for longer periods of time. However, owing to the particularities of underground space, the factors involved in the creation of a healthy environment are different from those involved in aboveground developments. This study thus aims to investigate the influences of various underground environment factors on users' health through a holistic approach.

To achieve this aim, 12 underground sites and 12 corresponding aboveground sites are selected for a large-scale questionnaire survey, resulting in 651 survey samples. The survey covers post-occupancy evaluation of health (physical and psychosocial), underground environmental quality (visual, thermal, acoustic comfort, indoor air quality and ventilation), space design and greenery. Independent-sample T-test, Pearson correlation, multiple regression modelling and structural equation modelling are used to investigate whether significant differences exist between health of underground and aboveground users, and to develop an underground environment-health model for unveiling the significant associations between underground environment factors and users' health. To cross validate the results, an objective field measurement study is further conducted on six underground sites. The objective measurement results are used to cross validate the survey results.

The questionnaire results provide the following evidence: (1) health of underground users is significantly poorer than that of their aboveground counterparts; (2) underground development users' health is significantly affected by space design, greenery and environmental quality in terms of thermal comfort, indoor air quality, ventilation and acoustic comfort but not visual comfort; and (3) amongst the various identified factors, space design has the strongest predicting effects on human health. The field study echoes the survey findings and further unveils the relationships between different environmental factors and human health.

The results shed light on the importance of distinguishing between underground developments and aboveground ones in various guidelines and standards, especially those related to space management.

]]>
Towards an integrative analysis of underground environment and human health: a survey and field measurement approach10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1120Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-10© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedIsabelle Y.S. ChanHao ChenEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-1010.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1120https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1120/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
The effect of construction sustainability system interactions on financial performance: a sociotechnical perspectivehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1134/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction sustainability (CS) is a strategic reaction to the sustainability expectations of the construction industry's external stakeholders. The extant literature has viewed the environmental, social and economic dimensions of CS as having independent effects on financial performance. Due to the influence of common stakeholders, however, interactions in these dimensions will be present in their effect on financial performance. Accordingly, this study identifies the mechanisms of the interactions between the three CS dimensions and how they jointly affect financial performance. Content analysis of GRI reports of 60 large construction organisations, followed by a hierarchical regression analysis was used to identify the interactions between environmental, social and economic CS in their effect on financial performance. Economic CS was found to indirectly, and not directly, affect financial performance, the effect being mediated by both environmental and social CS. Environmental CS was found to have a strong negative effect on financial performance, whilst social CS was found to have a strongly significant positive effect on financial performance. The motivation for engaging in CS is that investment in economic CS will have a positive effect on both environmental and social CS outcomes, which, in turn can have a combined effect on financial performance. This is one of the first studies investigating the effect of interactions between the environmental, social and economic CS dimensions on the financial performance of construction organisations. It is also one of the first studies that applies a sociotechnical framework to this relationship.The effect of construction sustainability system interactions on financial performance: a sociotechnical perspective
Stuart Orr, Akshay Jadhav
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction sustainability (CS) is a strategic reaction to the sustainability expectations of the construction industry's external stakeholders. The extant literature has viewed the environmental, social and economic dimensions of CS as having independent effects on financial performance. Due to the influence of common stakeholders, however, interactions in these dimensions will be present in their effect on financial performance. Accordingly, this study identifies the mechanisms of the interactions between the three CS dimensions and how they jointly affect financial performance.

Content analysis of GRI reports of 60 large construction organisations, followed by a hierarchical regression analysis was used to identify the interactions between environmental, social and economic CS in their effect on financial performance.

Economic CS was found to indirectly, and not directly, affect financial performance, the effect being mediated by both environmental and social CS. Environmental CS was found to have a strong negative effect on financial performance, whilst social CS was found to have a strongly significant positive effect on financial performance.

The motivation for engaging in CS is that investment in economic CS will have a positive effect on both environmental and social CS outcomes, which, in turn can have a combined effect on financial performance.

This is one of the first studies investigating the effect of interactions between the environmental, social and economic CS dimensions on the financial performance of construction organisations. It is also one of the first studies that applies a sociotechnical framework to this relationship.

]]>
The effect of construction sustainability system interactions on financial performance: a sociotechnical perspective10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1134Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-01-03© 2022 Emerald Publishing LimitedStuart OrrAkshay JadhavEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-01-0310.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1134https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1134/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2022 Emerald Publishing Limited
Integrating building information modeling with augmented reality: application and empirical assessment in building facility managementhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1146/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis paper presents a developed BIMxAR application, an integration of building information modeling (BIM) with augmented reality (AR) linked with real-time online database to support the building facility management work. The primary aim of this research was to develop and empirically examine the applicability of a BIM-based AR (BIMxAR) application in building facility management. The BIMxAR application was developed and experimented with maintenance work of a university laboratory building. The experiment consisted of a comparison of supportive maintenance tasks performed using the traditional approach and the BIMxAR approach by 38 university students. The time taken to complete each task was recorded and analyzed using statistical analyses to compare the performance between the tasks completed using each approach. The results indicated that the group using the BIMxAR application approach completed the tasks correctly in a significantly shorter time compared to that using the traditional approach. The findings supported the applicability of the developed BIMxAR application and the improvement of the building facility management tasks when using the proposed approach. This paper presents a methodological approach in developing a mobile application that integrates BIM with AR for facility management work, leveraging real-time information exchange through a cloud-based platform. The paper also provides empirical evidence that demonstrates how the integration between BIM and AR could be achieved and implemented to help facilitate building maintenance tasks.Integrating building information modeling with augmented reality: application and empirical assessment in building facility management
Sochea Khan, Kriengsak Panuwatwanich, Sasiporn Usanavasin
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This paper presents a developed BIMxAR application, an integration of building information modeling (BIM) with augmented reality (AR) linked with real-time online database to support the building facility management work. The primary aim of this research was to develop and empirically examine the applicability of a BIM-based AR (BIMxAR) application in building facility management.

The BIMxAR application was developed and experimented with maintenance work of a university laboratory building. The experiment consisted of a comparison of supportive maintenance tasks performed using the traditional approach and the BIMxAR approach by 38 university students. The time taken to complete each task was recorded and analyzed using statistical analyses to compare the performance between the tasks completed using each approach.

The results indicated that the group using the BIMxAR application approach completed the tasks correctly in a significantly shorter time compared to that using the traditional approach. The findings supported the applicability of the developed BIMxAR application and the improvement of the building facility management tasks when using the proposed approach.

This paper presents a methodological approach in developing a mobile application that integrates BIM with AR for facility management work, leveraging real-time information exchange through a cloud-based platform. The paper also provides empirical evidence that demonstrates how the integration between BIM and AR could be achieved and implemented to help facilitate building maintenance tasks.

]]>
Integrating building information modeling with augmented reality: application and empirical assessment in building facility management10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1146Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-02-15© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSochea KhanKriengsak PanuwatwanichSasiporn UsanavasinEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-02-1510.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1146https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2021-1146/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Schedule compression and emerging waste in construction: an assessment of overlapping activitieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1121/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestCompressing the schedule by using overlapping activities is a commonly adopted approach for accelerating projects. However, this approach might channel a variety of risks into the construction processes. Risks imply waste; still, evaluating the effects of using overlapping activities on schedule quality has been a looming gap in construction research. Therefore, this paper aims to study the quality of overlapping in terms of emerging waste and to demarcate the boundaries of the overlapping envelope. This study presents a method for assessing the consequences of implementing overlapping activities in a schedule on two types of waste namely waiting time and variation gap. A critical path method (CPM) network including eleven activities is modeled stochastically where the durations of individual activities are sampled as beta-distributions. Using program evaluation and review technique (PERT) assumptions to calculate the schedule dates, the network is simulated for various amounts of overlapping and the corresponding waste is quantified each time. Results show that not only the returns on overlapping are diminishing after a certain overlap percentage, but also waste in the production system increases. Particularly, results reveal that compressing the schedule leads to a decrease in variation gaps, but at the same time, it leads to a larger increase in waiting times, which creates more waste. The presented study shows through simulation how overlapping activities affects productivity by identifying wastes. It shows that despite the apparent gains, overlaps should be used with caution, and while considering the side-effects of increased waste which introduces a need for increased managerial awareness.Schedule compression and emerging waste in construction: an assessment of overlapping activities
Diana Salhab, Søren Munch Lindhard, Farook Hamzeh
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Compressing the schedule by using overlapping activities is a commonly adopted approach for accelerating projects. However, this approach might channel a variety of risks into the construction processes. Risks imply waste; still, evaluating the effects of using overlapping activities on schedule quality has been a looming gap in construction research. Therefore, this paper aims to study the quality of overlapping in terms of emerging waste and to demarcate the boundaries of the overlapping envelope.

This study presents a method for assessing the consequences of implementing overlapping activities in a schedule on two types of waste namely waiting time and variation gap. A critical path method (CPM) network including eleven activities is modeled stochastically where the durations of individual activities are sampled as beta-distributions. Using program evaluation and review technique (PERT) assumptions to calculate the schedule dates, the network is simulated for various amounts of overlapping and the corresponding waste is quantified each time.

Results show that not only the returns on overlapping are diminishing after a certain overlap percentage, but also waste in the production system increases. Particularly, results reveal that compressing the schedule leads to a decrease in variation gaps, but at the same time, it leads to a larger increase in waiting times, which creates more waste.

The presented study shows through simulation how overlapping activities affects productivity by identifying wastes. It shows that despite the apparent gains, overlaps should be used with caution, and while considering the side-effects of increased waste which introduces a need for increased managerial awareness.

]]>
Schedule compression and emerging waste in construction: an assessment of overlapping activities10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1121Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-13© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedDiana SalhabSøren Munch LindhardFarook HamzehEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-1310.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1121https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1121/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Developing a construct to measure contractor project manager performance competencieshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1122/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConstruction organizations' investment in effective talent-development programs is a key strategy in attracting, developing and retaining staff. Such programs are especially important given the current challenges in the construction workforce, including labor shortages, an aging workforce, generational differences in the workforce, supply chain disruptions and the need to effectively train staff in the skills that are essential in a constrained labor environment. To address these challenges, this study proposes a performance measurement strategy that construction companies can use as input to design their talent development programs. The strategy intends to assess the performance of project managers and develop criteria that define categories of their performance, including the top performers' category. This enables construction organizations to provide each project manager with individualized training that addresses areas of weakness and in turn, develops the skills that correspond with being top performers. The proposed strategy was developed and tested by surveying the immediate supervisors of 187 project managers working for general and specialty contractors in the United States. Principal component analysis was used to develop a single performance construct from seven performance criteria. This construct was used to organize the project managers into the categories of top, above-average and below-average performers. According to the findings, top-performing project managers have well-rounded skills in the areas of leadership, communication, technical proficiency and overall job knowledge. The outcomes of this study can help construction organizations focus their talent-development programs on the skills most associated with PMs being top performers. This study provides construction organizations with a comprehensive performance-measuring construct to focus their talent-development programs on the skills most associated with top-performing project managers. Researchers can use this study as a foundation for further understanding how performance is related to various construction professions.Developing a construct to measure contractor project manager performance competencies
Rebecca Kassa, Ibilola Ogundare, Brian Lines, Jake B. Smithwick, Nancy J. Kepple, Kenneth T. Sullivan
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Construction organizations' investment in effective talent-development programs is a key strategy in attracting, developing and retaining staff. Such programs are especially important given the current challenges in the construction workforce, including labor shortages, an aging workforce, generational differences in the workforce, supply chain disruptions and the need to effectively train staff in the skills that are essential in a constrained labor environment. To address these challenges, this study proposes a performance measurement strategy that construction companies can use as input to design their talent development programs.

The strategy intends to assess the performance of project managers and develop criteria that define categories of their performance, including the top performers' category. This enables construction organizations to provide each project manager with individualized training that addresses areas of weakness and in turn, develops the skills that correspond with being top performers. The proposed strategy was developed and tested by surveying the immediate supervisors of 187 project managers working for general and specialty contractors in the United States. Principal component analysis was used to develop a single performance construct from seven performance criteria.

This construct was used to organize the project managers into the categories of top, above-average and below-average performers. According to the findings, top-performing project managers have well-rounded skills in the areas of leadership, communication, technical proficiency and overall job knowledge.

The outcomes of this study can help construction organizations focus their talent-development programs on the skills most associated with PMs being top performers.

This study provides construction organizations with a comprehensive performance-measuring construct to focus their talent-development programs on the skills most associated with top-performing project managers. Researchers can use this study as a foundation for further understanding how performance is related to various construction professions.

]]>
Developing a construct to measure contractor project manager performance competencies10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1122Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-17© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedRebecca KassaIbilola OgundareBrian LinesJake B. SmithwickNancy J. KeppleKenneth T. SullivanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-1710.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1122https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1122/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Integrated construction consulting project performance improvement in China using network structure and team boundary-spanning behavior: a configurational analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1129/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe consulting team intervenes in the integrated construction consulting (ICC) network structure centered on “client-contractor-consultant.” Team boundary-spanning behavior (TBB) driven by the network structure is crucial to project performance. This article investigated how to stimulate the consulting project performance (CPP) improvement by considering the interactive effect of network structure and TBB. To be specific, this paper explored the configuration between structural characteristics of project networks, the dimension of TBB, and project performance in ICC projects. Network density and centrality were used to reflect network structure. This study collected 216 valid responses from construction professionals (including project managers, department managers, and project engineers) via a questionnaire survey and analyzed the data using fsQCA. Combining with the corresponding typical project case and analysis, the results concluded four types of configurations for achieving high performance in the ICC projects. Meanwhile, network centrality, density, ambassadorial behavior, coordination behavior, and detection behavior significantly impact high consulting project performance. Matching ICC network characteristics with the TBB is important. There are also three low performance configurations for the ICC projects. Low performance state also occurs when network centrality or density and coordination behavior is simultaneously low. Only the right match between the network characteristics and TBB can produce high consulting project performance. The network centrality and density, the implementation of TBB vary, and the paths to achieve high consulting project performance are different. Clients, ICC projects, and consulting teams should choose the appropriate development paths according to the actual situation. (1) Clients should commit to applying the ICC project model with high network centrality, density, and coordination behavior of ICC enterprises to promote project performance. (2) Consulting enterprises should carry out ICC business based on detecting behavior and coordinating behavior. (3) The market should cultivate head consulting enterprises with independence and integration, and bring into play the effectiveness of consulting team ambassadorial behavior. Comparing the results of the four high CPP configurations, the network structure characteristics are essential, which means that in the Chinese consulting practice between the owner and the consulting firm pay attention to the use of appropriate ICC organizational structure model and arrange the degree of centralization of authorized responsibilities. Coordination behavior is necessary to achieve high CPP. Therefore, Chinese consulting firms should pay attention to effective communication and exchange with project contractors in order to get high CPP in conducting business; meanwhile, enabling behavior can achieve high CPP both in the presence and absence of configuration H1 and H4, which indicates that enabling behavior has substitution effect. Comparing the three low CPP configurations also contrarily confirms the indispensability of coordinating behavior. Comparing the results of high and low CPP configurations, the TBB is seriously missing and not properly applied in CPP enhancement. In detail, Chinese consulting firms have been regarded as independent third parties providing services, and less attention has been paid to the TBB of Chinese consulting firms in past practice, thus leading to the dilemma of inadequate empowerment of consulting firms due to their unclear status. To solve this dilemma, the findings of this paper offer a solution at the micro level to change the previous perception of consulting and demonstrate that Chinese consulting practice needs to pay attention to TBB with owners and contractors, and apply it well to enhance the reputation, management consulting level and capability, and experience and expertise of consulting firms to achieve high CPP. The research results changed from the previous bilateral project governance to a new perspective of network embedding. It provided a theoretical basis for the improvement path of high consulting project performance, as well as providing ideas for clients on the organizational design of ICC projects. On the other hand, it provided a practical reference for TBB positioning of ICC enterprises for transformation and upgrading development.Integrated construction consulting project performance improvement in China using network structure and team boundary-spanning behavior: a configurational analysis
Ling Yan, Yichao Chen, Tingting Cao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The consulting team intervenes in the integrated construction consulting (ICC) network structure centered on “client-contractor-consultant.” Team boundary-spanning behavior (TBB) driven by the network structure is crucial to project performance. This article investigated how to stimulate the consulting project performance (CPP) improvement by considering the interactive effect of network structure and TBB. To be specific, this paper explored the configuration between structural characteristics of project networks, the dimension of TBB, and project performance in ICC projects.

Network density and centrality were used to reflect network structure. This study collected 216 valid responses from construction professionals (including project managers, department managers, and project engineers) via a questionnaire survey and analyzed the data using fsQCA.

Combining with the corresponding typical project case and analysis, the results concluded four types of configurations for achieving high performance in the ICC projects. Meanwhile, network centrality, density, ambassadorial behavior, coordination behavior, and detection behavior significantly impact high consulting project performance. Matching ICC network characteristics with the TBB is important. There are also three low performance configurations for the ICC projects. Low performance state also occurs when network centrality or density and coordination behavior is simultaneously low. Only the right match between the network characteristics and TBB can produce high consulting project performance.

The network centrality and density, the implementation of TBB vary, and the paths to achieve high consulting project performance are different. Clients, ICC projects, and consulting teams should choose the appropriate development paths according to the actual situation. (1) Clients should commit to applying the ICC project model with high network centrality, density, and coordination behavior of ICC enterprises to promote project performance. (2) Consulting enterprises should carry out ICC business based on detecting behavior and coordinating behavior. (3) The market should cultivate head consulting enterprises with independence and integration, and bring into play the effectiveness of consulting team ambassadorial behavior.

Comparing the results of the four high CPP configurations, the network structure characteristics are essential, which means that in the Chinese consulting practice between the owner and the consulting firm pay attention to the use of appropriate ICC organizational structure model and arrange the degree of centralization of authorized responsibilities. Coordination behavior is necessary to achieve high CPP. Therefore, Chinese consulting firms should pay attention to effective communication and exchange with project contractors in order to get high CPP in conducting business; meanwhile, enabling behavior can achieve high CPP both in the presence and absence of configuration H1 and H4, which indicates that enabling behavior has substitution effect. Comparing the three low CPP configurations also contrarily confirms the indispensability of coordinating behavior. Comparing the results of high and low CPP configurations, the TBB is seriously missing and not properly applied in CPP enhancement. In detail, Chinese consulting firms have been regarded as independent third parties providing services, and less attention has been paid to the TBB of Chinese consulting firms in past practice, thus leading to the dilemma of inadequate empowerment of consulting firms due to their unclear status. To solve this dilemma, the findings of this paper offer a solution at the micro level to change the previous perception of consulting and demonstrate that Chinese consulting practice needs to pay attention to TBB with owners and contractors, and apply it well to enhance the reputation, management consulting level and capability, and experience and expertise of consulting firms to achieve high CPP.

The research results changed from the previous bilateral project governance to a new perspective of network embedding. It provided a theoretical basis for the improvement path of high consulting project performance, as well as providing ideas for clients on the organizational design of ICC projects. On the other hand, it provided a practical reference for TBB positioning of ICC enterprises for transformation and upgrading development.

]]>
Integrated construction consulting project performance improvement in China using network structure and team boundary-spanning behavior: a configurational analysis10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1129Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedLing YanYichao ChenTingting CaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1910.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1129https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1129/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Cybersecurity effectiveness in UK construction firms: an extended McKinsey 7S model approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1131/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to assess the essential elements of internal organisational capability that influence the cybersecurity effectiveness of a construction firm. An extended McKinsey 7S model is used to analyse the relationship between a construction firm's cybersecurity effectiveness and nine internal capability elements: shared values, strategy, structure, systems, staff, style, skills, relationships with third parties and regulatory compliance. Based on a quantitative research strategy, this study collected data through a cross-sectional survey of professionals working in the construction sector in the United Kingdom (UK). The collected data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings underlined systems, regulatory compliance, staff and third-party relationships as the most significant elements of internal organisational capability influencing a construction firm's cybersecurity effectiveness, organised in order of importance. Future research possibilities are proposed including the extension of the proposed diagnostic model to consider additional external factors, examining it under varying industrial relationship conditions and developing a dynamic framework that helps improve cybersecurity capability levels while overseeing execution outcomes to ensure success. The extended McKinsey 7S model can be used as a diagnostic tool to assess the organisation's internal capabilities and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented changes. This can provide specific ways for construction firms to enhance their cybersecurity effectiveness. This study contributes to the field of cybersecurity in the construction industry by empirically assessing the effectiveness of cybersecurity in UK construction firms using an extended McKinsey 7S model. The study highlights the importance of two additional elements, third-party relationships and construction firm regulatory compliance, which were overlooked in the original McKinsey 7S model. By utilising this model, the study develops a concise research model of essential elements of internal organisational capability that influence cybersecurity effectiveness in construction firms.Cybersecurity effectiveness in UK construction firms: an extended McKinsey 7S model approach
Sulafa Badi, Mohamed Nasaj
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to assess the essential elements of internal organisational capability that influence the cybersecurity effectiveness of a construction firm. An extended McKinsey 7S model is used to analyse the relationship between a construction firm's cybersecurity effectiveness and nine internal capability elements: shared values, strategy, structure, systems, staff, style, skills, relationships with third parties and regulatory compliance.

Based on a quantitative research strategy, this study collected data through a cross-sectional survey of professionals working in the construction sector in the United Kingdom (UK). The collected data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

The findings underlined systems, regulatory compliance, staff and third-party relationships as the most significant elements of internal organisational capability influencing a construction firm's cybersecurity effectiveness, organised in order of importance.

Future research possibilities are proposed including the extension of the proposed diagnostic model to consider additional external factors, examining it under varying industrial relationship conditions and developing a dynamic framework that helps improve cybersecurity capability levels while overseeing execution outcomes to ensure success.

The extended McKinsey 7S model can be used as a diagnostic tool to assess the organisation's internal capabilities and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented changes. This can provide specific ways for construction firms to enhance their cybersecurity effectiveness.

This study contributes to the field of cybersecurity in the construction industry by empirically assessing the effectiveness of cybersecurity in UK construction firms using an extended McKinsey 7S model. The study highlights the importance of two additional elements, third-party relationships and construction firm regulatory compliance, which were overlooked in the original McKinsey 7S model. By utilising this model, the study develops a concise research model of essential elements of internal organisational capability that influence cybersecurity effectiveness in construction firms.

]]>
Cybersecurity effectiveness in UK construction firms: an extended McKinsey 7S model approach10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1131Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-17© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedSulafa BadiMohamed NasajEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1710.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1131https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1131/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Risk assessment of infrastructure REITs projects based on cloud model: a case study of Chinahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1142/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe need for infrastructure is growing as urbanization picks up speed, and the infrastructure REITs financing model has been crucial in reviving the vast infrastructure stock, alleviating the pressure on government funds and diversifying investment entities. This study aims to propose a framework to better assess the risks of infrastructure REITs, which can serve for the researchers and the policy makers to propose risk mitigation strategies and policy recommendations more purposively to facilitate successful implementation and long-term development of infrastructure REITs. The infrastructure REITs risk evaluation index system is established through literature review and factor analysis, and the optimal comprehensive weight of the index is calculated using the combination weight. Then, a risk evaluation cloud model of infrastructure REITs is constructed, and experts quantify the qualitative language of infrastructure REITs risks. This paper verifies the feasibility and effectiveness of the model by taking a basic REITs project in China as an example. This paper takes infrastructure REITs project in China as an example, to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the cloud evaluation method. The research outcome shows that infrastructure REITs risks manifest in the risk of policy and legal, underlying asset, market, operational and credit. The main influencing factors in terms of their weights are tax policy risk, operation and management risk, liquidity risk, termination risk and default risk. The financing project is at a higher risk, and the probability of risk is 64.2%. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by supplementing a set of scientific and practical risk evaluation methods to assess the potential risks of infrastructure REITs project, which contributes the infrastructure financing risk management system. Identify key risk factors for infrastructure REITs with underlying assets, which contributes to infrastructure REITs project management. This research can help relevant stakeholders to control risks throughout the infrastructure investment and financing life cycle, provide them with reference for investment and financing decision-making and promote more sustainable and healthy development of infrastructure REITs in developing countries.Risk assessment of infrastructure REITs projects based on cloud model: a case study of China
Yousong Wang, Enqin Gong, Yangbing Zhang, Yao Yao, Xiaowei Zhou
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The need for infrastructure is growing as urbanization picks up speed, and the infrastructure REITs financing model has been crucial in reviving the vast infrastructure stock, alleviating the pressure on government funds and diversifying investment entities. This study aims to propose a framework to better assess the risks of infrastructure REITs, which can serve for the researchers and the policy makers to propose risk mitigation strategies and policy recommendations more purposively to facilitate successful implementation and long-term development of infrastructure REITs.

The infrastructure REITs risk evaluation index system is established through literature review and factor analysis, and the optimal comprehensive weight of the index is calculated using the combination weight. Then, a risk evaluation cloud model of infrastructure REITs is constructed, and experts quantify the qualitative language of infrastructure REITs risks. This paper verifies the feasibility and effectiveness of the model by taking a basic REITs project in China as an example. This paper takes infrastructure REITs project in China as an example, to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the cloud evaluation method.

The research outcome shows that infrastructure REITs risks manifest in the risk of policy and legal, underlying asset, market, operational and credit. The main influencing factors in terms of their weights are tax policy risk, operation and management risk, liquidity risk, termination risk and default risk. The financing project is at a higher risk, and the probability of risk is 64.2%.

This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by supplementing a set of scientific and practical risk evaluation methods to assess the potential risks of infrastructure REITs project, which contributes the infrastructure financing risk management system. Identify key risk factors for infrastructure REITs with underlying assets, which contributes to infrastructure REITs project management. This research can help relevant stakeholders to control risks throughout the infrastructure investment and financing life cycle, provide them with reference for investment and financing decision-making and promote more sustainable and healthy development of infrastructure REITs in developing countries.

]]>
Risk assessment of infrastructure REITs projects based on cloud model: a case study of China10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1142Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-18© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYousong WangEnqin GongYangbing ZhangYao YaoXiaowei ZhouEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-1810.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1142https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1142/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Phasing real estate projects considering profitability and customer satisfactionhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1146/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe aggressive competition in the real estate market forces real estate developers to tackle the challenge of selecting the best project construction phasing alternative. The real estate industry is characterized by high costs, high profit and high risks. The schedules of real estate projects are also characterized by having large number of repetitive activities that are executed over a long duration. The repetitiveness, long duration of execution, the high amounts of money involved and the high risk made it desirable to leverage the impact of changes in phasing plans on net present value of amounts incurred and received over the long execution and selling duration. This also changes the project progress, and delivery time as well as their respective impact on customer degree of satisfaction. This research addresses the problem of selecting the best phasing alternative for real estate development projects while maximizing customer satisfaction and project profit. The research proposes a model that generates all construction phasing alternatives and performs decision-making to rank all possible phasing alternatives. The proposed model consists of five modules: (1) Phasing Sequencing module, (2) Customer Satisfaction module, (3) Cash-In calculation module, (4) Cost Estimation module and (5) Decision-making module. A case study was presented to demonstrate the practicality of the model. The proposed model satisfies the real estate market's need for proper construction phasing plans evaluation and selection against the project's main success criteria, customer satisfaction and project profit. The proposed model generates all construction phasing alternatives and performs multi-criteria decision making to rank all possible phasing alternatives. It quantifies the score of the two previously mentioned criteria and ranks all solutions according to their overall score. The research proposes a model that assist real estate market's need for proper construction phasing plans evaluation and selection against the project's main success criteria, customer satisfaction and project profit. The proposed model can be used to conclude general guidelines and common successful practices to be used by real estate developers when deciding the construction phasing plan. In this study the model is based on business models where all the project units are sold, rental cases are not considered. Also, the budget limitations that might exist when phasing is not considered in the model computations. The model can be used as a complete platform that can hold all real estate project data, process revenues and cost information for estimating profit, plotting cash flow profiles, quantifying the degree of customer satisfaction attributable to each phasing alternative and providing recommendation showing the best one. The model can be used to conclude general guidelines and common successful practices to be used by real estate developers when tackling the challenge of selecting construction phasing plans.Phasing real estate projects considering profitability and customer satisfaction
Mohamed Marzouk, Dina Hamdala
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The aggressive competition in the real estate market forces real estate developers to tackle the challenge of selecting the best project construction phasing alternative. The real estate industry is characterized by high costs, high profit and high risks. The schedules of real estate projects are also characterized by having large number of repetitive activities that are executed over a long duration. The repetitiveness, long duration of execution, the high amounts of money involved and the high risk made it desirable to leverage the impact of changes in phasing plans on net present value of amounts incurred and received over the long execution and selling duration. This also changes the project progress, and delivery time as well as their respective impact on customer degree of satisfaction. This research addresses the problem of selecting the best phasing alternative for real estate development projects while maximizing customer satisfaction and project profit.

The research proposes a model that generates all construction phasing alternatives and performs decision-making to rank all possible phasing alternatives. The proposed model consists of five modules: (1) Phasing Sequencing module, (2) Customer Satisfaction module, (3) Cash-In calculation module, (4) Cost Estimation module and (5) Decision-making module. A case study was presented to demonstrate the practicality of the model.

The proposed model satisfies the real estate market's need for proper construction phasing plans evaluation and selection against the project's main success criteria, customer satisfaction and project profit. The proposed model generates all construction phasing alternatives and performs multi-criteria decision making to rank all possible phasing alternatives. It quantifies the score of the two previously mentioned criteria and ranks all solutions according to their overall score.

The research proposes a model that assist real estate market's need for proper construction phasing plans evaluation and selection against the project's main success criteria, customer satisfaction and project profit. The proposed model can be used to conclude general guidelines and common successful practices to be used by real estate developers when deciding the construction phasing plan. In this study the model is based on business models where all the project units are sold, rental cases are not considered. Also, the budget limitations that might exist when phasing is not considered in the model computations.

The model can be used as a complete platform that can hold all real estate project data, process revenues and cost information for estimating profit, plotting cash flow profiles, quantifying the degree of customer satisfaction attributable to each phasing alternative and providing recommendation showing the best one. The model can be used to conclude general guidelines and common successful practices to be used by real estate developers when tackling the challenge of selecting construction phasing plans.

]]>
Phasing real estate projects considering profitability and customer satisfaction10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1146Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-01-26© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohamed MarzoukDina HamdalaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-01-2610.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1146https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1146/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evolutionary analysis of information-based construction management promotion using a government-enterprise evolutionary game modelhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1152/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestIn China, information-based construction management (ICM) has not obtained the expected results because of the benefit game between construction enterprises and the government. Promoting ICM is a long-term, complex and dynamic game process. Therefore, an evolutionary game model is established to promote ICM. MATLAB was used to conduct evolutionary game analysis on the behavioural strategies of two parties. System stability analysis and numerical simulation were conducted. The variables affecting ICM realization were analysed and comprehensively considered. The optimal stability strategy and key variables were obtained. The results show that the system includes four evolutionarily stable strategies (ESSs) with 10 decisive parameters. Information technology costs, benefits, reputation, the government intervention level, the enterprise ICM level and the degree of reward and punishment determine the ideal ESS. Increasing tangible benefits, enhancing corporate reputation, improving the level of government guidance and reducing intervention costs can promote ICM implementation. Rewards are more effective than punishments, and appropriate rewards should be determined. First, reducing labour disputes, accidents and environmental pollution brings great social and ecological benefits; hence, the recognition of external benefits and the establishment of a benefit compensation mechanism by the government will be a future focus of research (Jia et al., 2020). Second, this study considered only the government and construction enterprises, and there may be other stakeholders, such as owners and the public, in the ICM adoption process, which needs further analysis (Zhang and Li, 2022). Third, this research is based on the specific context of government intervention in ICM. The selection of parameters and the determination of values were based on the national conditions in China. Therefore, the generalizability of the research results to other countries and other political contexts needs to be further improved (Hardie et al., 2013; Martínez-Román et al., 2017). Fourth, the empirical data were collected from Shandong Province and a pilot project, and the universality of the data remains to be verified. Nevertheless, the data were used only for the initial values of the simulation, which did not affect the simulation path. (1) This study comprehensively summarized the benefit and cost indexes for the government and enterprises to promote ICM and constructed the payment matrix model. (2) This study determined the theoretical relation that the parameters should meet when system evolves into a certain strategy, and the research findings provide recommendations for overall control for the government and enterprises to synergistically adopt the ICM. (3) The study determined the influence of the main parameters on system evolution path and identified the core parameters, thus providing targeted improvement recommendations for the government and enterprises. Real-time data-based management can ensure product quality and production safety and improve decision-making and efficiency. For the government, ICM can effectively reduce project quality and safety accidents, labour disputes, supplier mix-ups and environmental pollution, thus reducing the government's management costs and improving social benefits. (1) Based on the challenges of ICM implementation, the payment matrix is constructed, with the cost and benefit parameters fully considered. (2) This study determines the theoretical relationship that should be met when both parties coordinate their implementation and when enterprises implement independently, and the optimal strategy is specified. (3) Incorporating an actual case, a simulation is conducted to clarify the influence of a single parameter on the evolutionary path of behaviours. (4) A decision-making basis for governments and enterprises to control and improve ICM is provided.Evolutionary analysis of information-based construction management promotion using a government-enterprise evolutionary game model
Meishan Jia, Lingmin Zhao
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

In China, information-based construction management (ICM) has not obtained the expected results because of the benefit game between construction enterprises and the government. Promoting ICM is a long-term, complex and dynamic game process. Therefore, an evolutionary game model is established to promote ICM.

MATLAB was used to conduct evolutionary game analysis on the behavioural strategies of two parties. System stability analysis and numerical simulation were conducted. The variables affecting ICM realization were analysed and comprehensively considered. The optimal stability strategy and key variables were obtained.

The results show that the system includes four evolutionarily stable strategies (ESSs) with 10 decisive parameters. Information technology costs, benefits, reputation, the government intervention level, the enterprise ICM level and the degree of reward and punishment determine the ideal ESS. Increasing tangible benefits, enhancing corporate reputation, improving the level of government guidance and reducing intervention costs can promote ICM implementation. Rewards are more effective than punishments, and appropriate rewards should be determined.

First, reducing labour disputes, accidents and environmental pollution brings great social and ecological benefits; hence, the recognition of external benefits and the establishment of a benefit compensation mechanism by the government will be a future focus of research (Jia et al., 2020). Second, this study considered only the government and construction enterprises, and there may be other stakeholders, such as owners and the public, in the ICM adoption process, which needs further analysis (Zhang and Li, 2022). Third, this research is based on the specific context of government intervention in ICM. The selection of parameters and the determination of values were based on the national conditions in China. Therefore, the generalizability of the research results to other countries and other political contexts needs to be further improved (Hardie et al., 2013; Martínez-Román et al., 2017). Fourth, the empirical data were collected from Shandong Province and a pilot project, and the universality of the data remains to be verified. Nevertheless, the data were used only for the initial values of the simulation, which did not affect the simulation path.

(1) This study comprehensively summarized the benefit and cost indexes for the government and enterprises to promote ICM and constructed the payment matrix model. (2) This study determined the theoretical relation that the parameters should meet when system evolves into a certain strategy, and the research findings provide recommendations for overall control for the government and enterprises to synergistically adopt the ICM. (3) The study determined the influence of the main parameters on system evolution path and identified the core parameters, thus providing targeted improvement recommendations for the government and enterprises.

Real-time data-based management can ensure product quality and production safety and improve decision-making and efficiency. For the government, ICM can effectively reduce project quality and safety accidents, labour disputes, supplier mix-ups and environmental pollution, thus reducing the government's management costs and improving social benefits.

(1) Based on the challenges of ICM implementation, the payment matrix is constructed, with the cost and benefit parameters fully considered. (2) This study determines the theoretical relationship that should be met when both parties coordinate their implementation and when enterprises implement independently, and the optimal strategy is specified. (3) Incorporating an actual case, a simulation is conducted to clarify the influence of a single parameter on the evolutionary path of behaviours. (4) A decision-making basis for governments and enterprises to control and improve ICM is provided.

]]>
Evolutionary analysis of information-based construction management promotion using a government-enterprise evolutionary game model10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1152Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-21© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMeishan JiaLingmin ZhaoEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2110.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1152https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1152/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Evaluation of concrete workers' interaction with a passive back-support exoskeletonhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1156/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestConcrete workers perform physically demanding work in awkward postures, exposing their backs to musculoskeletal disorders. Back-support exoskeletons are promising ergonomic interventions designed to reduce the risks of back disorders. However, the suitability of exoskeletons for enhancing performance of concrete workers has not been largely explored. This study aims to assess a passive back-support exoskeleton for concrete work in terms of the impact on the body, usability and benefits of the exoskeleton, and potential design modifications. Concrete workers performed work with a passive back-support exoskeleton. Subjective and qualitative measures were employed to capture their perception of the exoskeleton, at the middle and end of the work, in terms of discomfort to their body parts, ease of use, comfort, performance and safety of the exoskeleton, and their experience using the exoskeleton. These were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The exoskeleton reduced stress on the lower back but caused discomfort to other body parts. Significant correlations were observed between perceived discomfort and usability measures. Design modifications are needed to improve the compatibility of the exoskeleton with the existing safety gears, reduce discomfort at chest and thigh, and improve ease of use of the exoskeleton. The study was conducted with eight concrete workers who used the exoskeleton for four hours. This study contributes to existing knowledge on human-wearable robot interaction and provides suggestions for adapting exoskeleton designs for construction work.Evaluation of concrete workers' interaction with a passive back-support exoskeleton
Nihar J. Gonsalves, Anthony Yusuf, Omobolanle Ogunseiju, Abiola Akanmu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Concrete workers perform physically demanding work in awkward postures, exposing their backs to musculoskeletal disorders. Back-support exoskeletons are promising ergonomic interventions designed to reduce the risks of back disorders. However, the suitability of exoskeletons for enhancing performance of concrete workers has not been largely explored. This study aims to assess a passive back-support exoskeleton for concrete work in terms of the impact on the body, usability and benefits of the exoskeleton, and potential design modifications.

Concrete workers performed work with a passive back-support exoskeleton. Subjective and qualitative measures were employed to capture their perception of the exoskeleton, at the middle and end of the work, in terms of discomfort to their body parts, ease of use, comfort, performance and safety of the exoskeleton, and their experience using the exoskeleton. These were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

The exoskeleton reduced stress on the lower back but caused discomfort to other body parts. Significant correlations were observed between perceived discomfort and usability measures. Design modifications are needed to improve the compatibility of the exoskeleton with the existing safety gears, reduce discomfort at chest and thigh, and improve ease of use of the exoskeleton.

The study was conducted with eight concrete workers who used the exoskeleton for four hours.

This study contributes to existing knowledge on human-wearable robot interaction and provides suggestions for adapting exoskeleton designs for construction work.

]]>
Evaluation of concrete workers' interaction with a passive back-support exoskeleton10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1156Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-06-01© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedNihar J. GonsalvesAnthony YusufOmobolanle OgunseijuAbiola AkanmuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-06-0110.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1156https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1156/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Critical risk factors for construction supply chain in China: a fuzzy synthetic evaluation analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1158/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestInefficiency dilemmas in project governance are caused by various risks arising from the characteristic of construction supply chain projects, such as poor project performance, conflicts between stakeholders and cost overrun. This research aims to establish a fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) model to analyze construction supply chain risk factors. Corresponding risk mitigation strategies are provided to facilitate the improvement performance of ongoing construction supply chain projects. A literature review is utilized to reveal the deficiencies of construction supply chain risk management. Thus, a total of five hundred (500) questionnaires are distributed to construction professionals, and four hundred and thirty-five (435) questionnaires are recovered to obtain the evaluation data of construction professionals on critical risk factors. Additionally, the FSE is used to analyze and rank the significance of critical risk factors. Finally, this research discusses nine critical risk factors with high weight in the model, and explains the reason for the significance of critical risk factors in the construction supply chain. The questionnaire results show that the thirty-one (31) identified critical risk factors are verified by related practitioners (government departments, universities and research institutions, owners, construction units, financial institutions, design units, consulting firms). Thirty-one (31) identified critical risk factors are divided into common risks, risks from contractors and risks from owners. The most significant factors in the three categories, respectively, are “political risks,” “owner's unprofessional” approach and “cash flow.” Managing these risks can facilitate the development of the construction supply chain. This paper expands the research perspective of construction supply chain risk management and complements the risks in the construction supply chain. For practitioners, the research result provides some corresponding measures to deal with these risks. For researchers, the research result provides the direction of construction supply chain risk treatment.Critical risk factors for construction supply chain in China: a fuzzy synthetic evaluation analysis
Binchao Deng, Xindong Lv, Yaling Du, Xiaoyu Li, Yilin Yin
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Inefficiency dilemmas in project governance are caused by various risks arising from the characteristic of construction supply chain projects, such as poor project performance, conflicts between stakeholders and cost overrun. This research aims to establish a fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) model to analyze construction supply chain risk factors. Corresponding risk mitigation strategies are provided to facilitate the improvement performance of ongoing construction supply chain projects.

A literature review is utilized to reveal the deficiencies of construction supply chain risk management. Thus, a total of five hundred (500) questionnaires are distributed to construction professionals, and four hundred and thirty-five (435) questionnaires are recovered to obtain the evaluation data of construction professionals on critical risk factors. Additionally, the FSE is used to analyze and rank the significance of critical risk factors. Finally, this research discusses nine critical risk factors with high weight in the model, and explains the reason for the significance of critical risk factors in the construction supply chain.

The questionnaire results show that the thirty-one (31) identified critical risk factors are verified by related practitioners (government departments, universities and research institutions, owners, construction units, financial institutions, design units, consulting firms). Thirty-one (31) identified critical risk factors are divided into common risks, risks from contractors and risks from owners. The most significant factors in the three categories, respectively, are “political risks,” “owner's unprofessional” approach and “cash flow.” Managing these risks can facilitate the development of the construction supply chain.

This paper expands the research perspective of construction supply chain risk management and complements the risks in the construction supply chain. For practitioners, the research result provides some corresponding measures to deal with these risks. For researchers, the research result provides the direction of construction supply chain risk treatment.

]]>
Critical risk factors for construction supply chain in China: a fuzzy synthetic evaluation analysis10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1158Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedBinchao DengXindong LvYaling DuXiaoyu LiYilin YinEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2710.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1158https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1158/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring the both-and success paradox in mega construction projects: multi-dimensional assessments of paradoxical leadership, project agility and megaproject successhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1165/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestOrganizations are full of contradictions and leadership dilemmas. Managers often face challenges such as selecting between two contradicting options such that which one is more important can hardly be judged. To manage contradicting dynamics, today’s managers can adopt the paradoxical leadership approach. We build a theoretical model to investigate the influence of paradoxical leadership on multi-dimensional project agility (proactivity, adaptability, and resilience), and multi-dimensional project success (management, investment, and ownership success). Drawing on survey-based data from the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) megaproject (N = 209), we performed covariance-based structural equation modeling to test the conceptual model. The findings show that (1) paradoxical leadership has a significant positive impact on megaproject success, (2) paradoxical leadership has a significant positive influence on project agility, (3) project agility has a significant positive effect on megaproject success, and (4) project agility has a significant effect that mediates the link between paradoxical leadership and megaproject success. This research provides a theoretical and practical comprehension of paradoxical leadership with a new perspective on megaprojects. This study provides an extension of the existing studies on paradoxical leadership and identifies the role of contradicting dynamics and their impact on multiple facets of megaproject success. It not only clarifies the relationship between paradoxical leadership and megaproject success, but also identifies the mediating role of project agility that can play an effective role in mobilizing success in megaprojects.Exploring the both-and success paradox in mega construction projects: multi-dimensional assessments of paradoxical leadership, project agility and megaproject success
Umer Zaman, Laura Florez-Perez, Saba Abbasi, Muhammad Shahid Nawaz
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Organizations are full of contradictions and leadership dilemmas. Managers often face challenges such as selecting between two contradicting options such that which one is more important can hardly be judged. To manage contradicting dynamics, today’s managers can adopt the paradoxical leadership approach. We build a theoretical model to investigate the influence of paradoxical leadership on multi-dimensional project agility (proactivity, adaptability, and resilience), and multi-dimensional project success (management, investment, and ownership success).

Drawing on survey-based data from the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) megaproject (N = 209), we performed covariance-based structural equation modeling to test the conceptual model.

The findings show that (1) paradoxical leadership has a significant positive impact on megaproject success, (2) paradoxical leadership has a significant positive influence on project agility, (3) project agility has a significant positive effect on megaproject success, and (4) project agility has a significant effect that mediates the link between paradoxical leadership and megaproject success. This research provides a theoretical and practical comprehension of paradoxical leadership with a new perspective on megaprojects.

This study provides an extension of the existing studies on paradoxical leadership and identifies the role of contradicting dynamics and their impact on multiple facets of megaproject success. It not only clarifies the relationship between paradoxical leadership and megaproject success, but also identifies the mediating role of project agility that can play an effective role in mobilizing success in megaprojects.

]]>
Exploring the both-and success paradox in mega construction projects: multi-dimensional assessments of paradoxical leadership, project agility and megaproject success10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1165Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-03-14© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedUmer ZamanLaura Florez-PerezSaba AbbasiMuhammad Shahid NawazEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-03-1410.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1165https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1165/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited
Investigating the effect of risk reduction strategies on the construction of mega infrastructure project (MIP) success: a SEM-ANN approachhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1166/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestManaging mega infrastructure projects (MIPs) is more complex because of time, size, social, environmental and financial implications. This study aims to address the management approaches, complexity and risk factors involved in MIPs. The study focuses on project success criteria and their individual effects on the success of MIPs. To address the challenges and identify the most influencing factor for the success of MIPs, the study deployed a cross-sectional survey approach. Six hundred eighty-two usable samples were collected from the respondents to understand the impact of predetermined factors on the success of MIPs. The structural equation model and artificial neural network approach were used to derive the importance of factors affecting the success of MIPs. The study's outcome confirms that all three influencing factors: feasibility studies, community engagements and contract selection, have a significant positive impact on the success of MIPs. Community engagement amongst all three has the most influential predictor for the success of MIPs. The developed model will enable practitioners and policymakers from Indian construction companies and other emerging nations to concentrate on recognized risk reduction variables to enhance project success criteria and project management success, especially for MIPs.Investigating the effect of risk reduction strategies on the construction of mega infrastructure project (MIP) success: a SEM-ANN approach
MohammedShakil S. Malek, Viral Bhatt
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Managing mega infrastructure projects (MIPs) is more complex because of time, size, social, environmental and financial implications. This study aims to address the management approaches, complexity and risk factors involved in MIPs. The study focuses on project success criteria and their individual effects on the success of MIPs.

To address the challenges and identify the most influencing factor for the success of MIPs, the study deployed a cross-sectional survey approach. Six hundred eighty-two usable samples were collected from the respondents to understand the impact of predetermined factors on the success of MIPs. The structural equation model and artificial neural network approach were used to derive the importance of factors affecting the success of MIPs.

The study's outcome confirms that all three influencing factors: feasibility studies, community engagements and contract selection, have a significant positive impact on the success of MIPs. Community engagement amongst all three has the most influential predictor for the success of MIPs.

The developed model will enable practitioners and policymakers from Indian construction companies and other emerging nations to concentrate on recognized risk reduction variables to enhance project success criteria and project management success, especially for MIPs.

]]>
Investigating the effect of risk reduction strategies on the construction of mega infrastructure project (MIP) success: a SEM-ANN approach10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1166Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-08-04© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedMohammedShakil S. MalekViral BhattEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-08-0410.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1166https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1166/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Design for safety in metro station evacuation: a study of fire emergency evacuation behavior and simulationhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1169/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestMetro stations have become a crucial aspect of urban rail transportation, integrating facilities, equipment and pedestrians. Impractical physical layout designs and pedestrian psychology impact the effectiveness of an evacuation during a metro fire. Prior research on emergency evacuation has overlooked the complexity of metro stations and failed to adequately consider the physical heterogeneity of stations and pedestrian psychology. Therefore, this study aims to develop a comprehensive evacuation optimization strategy for metro stations by applying the concept of design for safety (DFS) to an emergency evacuation. This approach offers novel insights into the management of complex systems in metro stations during emergencies. Physical and social factors affecting evacuations are identified. Moreover, the social force model (SFM) is modified by combining the fire dynamics model (FDM) and considering pedestrians' impatience and panic psychology. Based on the Nanjing South Metro Station, a multiagent-based simulation (MABS) model is developed. Finally, based on DFS, optimization strategies for metro stations are suggested. The most effective evacuation occurs when the width of the stairs is 3 meters and the transfer corridor is 14 meters. Additionally, a luggage disposal area should be set up. The exit strategy of the fewest evacuees is better than the nearest-exit strategy, and the staff in the metro station should guide pedestrians correctly. Previous studies rarely consider metro stations as sociotechnical systems or apply DFS to proactively reduce evacuation risks. This study provides a new perspective on the evacuation framework of metro stations, which can guide the designers and managers of metro stations.Design for safety in metro station evacuation: a study of fire emergency evacuation behavior and simulation
Ying Lu, Yunxuan Deng, Shuqi Sun
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Metro stations have become a crucial aspect of urban rail transportation, integrating facilities, equipment and pedestrians. Impractical physical layout designs and pedestrian psychology impact the effectiveness of an evacuation during a metro fire. Prior research on emergency evacuation has overlooked the complexity of metro stations and failed to adequately consider the physical heterogeneity of stations and pedestrian psychology. Therefore, this study aims to develop a comprehensive evacuation optimization strategy for metro stations by applying the concept of design for safety (DFS) to an emergency evacuation. This approach offers novel insights into the management of complex systems in metro stations during emergencies.

Physical and social factors affecting evacuations are identified. Moreover, the social force model (SFM) is modified by combining the fire dynamics model (FDM) and considering pedestrians' impatience and panic psychology. Based on the Nanjing South Metro Station, a multiagent-based simulation (MABS) model is developed. Finally, based on DFS, optimization strategies for metro stations are suggested.

The most effective evacuation occurs when the width of the stairs is 3 meters and the transfer corridor is 14 meters. Additionally, a luggage disposal area should be set up. The exit strategy of the fewest evacuees is better than the nearest-exit strategy, and the staff in the metro station should guide pedestrians correctly.

Previous studies rarely consider metro stations as sociotechnical systems or apply DFS to proactively reduce evacuation risks. This study provides a new perspective on the evacuation framework of metro stations, which can guide the designers and managers of metro stations.

]]>
Design for safety in metro station evacuation: a study of fire emergency evacuation behavior and simulation10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1169Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-27© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedYing LuYunxuan DengShuqi SunEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-2710.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1169https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1169/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Estimation of building project completion duration using a natural gradient boosting ensemble model and legal and institutional variableshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1170/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestEarned value management (EVM)–based models for estimating project actual duration (AD) and cost at completion using various methods are continuously developed to improve the accuracy and actualization of predicted values. This study primarily aimed to examine natural gradient boosting (NGBoost-2020) with the classification and regression trees (CART) base model (base learner). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this concept has never been applied to EVM AD forecasting problem. Consequently, the authors compared this method to the single K-nearest neighbor (KNN) method, the ensemble method of extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost-2016) with the CART base model and the optimal equation of EVM, the earned schedule (ES) equation with the performance factor equal to 1 (ES1). The paper also sought to determine the extent to which the World Bank's two legal factors affect countries and how the two legal causes of delay (related to institutional flaws) influence AD prediction models. In this paper, data from 30 construction projects of various building types in Iran, Pakistan, India, Turkey, Malaysia and Nigeria (due to the high number of delayed projects and the detrimental effects of these delays in these countries) were used to develop three models. The target variable of the models was a dimensionless output, the ratio of estimated duration to completion (ETC(t)) to planned duration (PD). Furthermore, 426 tracking periods were used to build the three models, with 353 samples and 23 projects in the training set, 73 patterns (17% of the total) and six projects (21% of the total) in the testing set. Furthermore, 17 dimensionless input variables were used, including ten variables based on the main variables and performance indices of EVM and several other variables detailed in the study. The three models were subsequently created using Python and several GitHub-hosted codes. For the testing set of the optimal model (NGBoost), the better percentage mean (better%) of the prediction error (based on projects with a lower error percentage) of the NGBoost compared to two KNN and ES1 single models, as well as the total mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean lags (MeLa) (indicating model stability) were 100, 83.33, 5.62 and 3.17%, respectively. Notably, the total MAPE and MeLa for the NGBoost model testing set, which had ten EVM-based input variables, were 6.74 and 5.20%, respectively. The ensemble artificial intelligence (AI) models exhibited a much lower MAPE than ES1. Additionally, ES1 was less stable in prediction than NGBoost. The possibility of excessive and unusual MAPE and MeLa values occurred only in the two single models. However, on some data sets, ES1 outperformed AI models. NGBoost also outperformed other models, especially single models for most developing countries, and was more accurate than previously presented optimized models. In addition, sensitivity analysis was conducted on the NGBoost predicted outputs of 30 projects using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method. All variables demonstrated an effect on ETC(t)/PD. The results revealed that the most influential input variables in order of importance were actual time (AT) to PD, regulatory quality (RQ), earned duration (ED) to PD, schedule cost index (SCI), planned complete percentage, rule of law (RL), actual complete percentage (ACP) and ETC(t) of the ES optimal equation to PD. The probabilistic hybrid model was selected based on the outputs predicted by the NGBoost and XGBoost models and the MAPE values from three AI models. The 95% prediction interval of the NGBoost–XGBoost model revealed that 96.10 and 98.60% of the actual output values of the testing and training sets are within this interval, respectively. Due to the use of projects performed in different countries, it was not possible to distribute the questionnaire to the managers and stakeholders of 30 projects in six developing countries. Due to the low number of EVM-based projects in various references, it was unfeasible to utilize other types of projects. Future prospects include evaluating the accuracy and stability of NGBoost for timely and non-fluctuating projects (mostly in developed countries), considering a greater number of legal/institutional variables as input, using legal/institutional/internal/inflation inputs for complex projects with extremely high uncertainty (such as bridge and road construction) and integrating these inputs and NGBoost with new technologies (such as blockchain, radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, building information modeling (BIM) and Internet of things (IoT)). The legal/intuitive recommendations made to governments are strict control of prices, adequate supervision, removal of additional rules, removal of unfair regulations, clarification of the future trend of a law change, strict monitoring of property rights, simplification of the processes for obtaining permits and elimination of unnecessary changes particularly in developing countries and at the onset of irregular projects with limited information and numerous uncertainties. Furthermore, the managers and stakeholders of this group of projects were informed of the significance of seven construction variables (institutional/legal external risks, internal factors and inflation) at an early stage, using time series (dynamic) models to predict AD, accurate calculation of progress percentage variables, the effectiveness of building type in non-residential projects, regular updating inflation during implementation, effectiveness of employer type in the early stage of public projects in addition to the late stage of private projects, and allocating reserve duration (buffer) in order to respond to institutional/legal risks. Ensemble methods were optimized in 70% of references. To the authors' knowledge, NGBoost from the set of ensemble methods was not used to estimate construction project duration and delays. NGBoost is an effective method for considering uncertainties in irregular projects and is often implemented in developing countries. Furthermore, AD estimation models do fail to incorporate RQ and RL from the World Bank's worldwide governance indicators (WGI) as risk-based inputs. In addition, the various WGI, EVM and inflation variables are not combined with substantial degrees of delay institutional risks as inputs. Consequently, due to the existence of critical and complex risks in different countries, it is vital to consider legal and institutional factors. This is especially recommended if an in-depth, accurate and reality-based method like SHAP is used for analysis.Estimation of building project completion duration using a natural gradient boosting ensemble model and legal and institutional variables
Farshad Peiman, Mohammad Khalilzadeh, Nasser Shahsavari-Pour, Mehdi Ravanshadnia
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

Earned value management (EVM)–based models for estimating project actual duration (AD) and cost at completion using various methods are continuously developed to improve the accuracy and actualization of predicted values. This study primarily aimed to examine natural gradient boosting (NGBoost-2020) with the classification and regression trees (CART) base model (base learner). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this concept has never been applied to EVM AD forecasting problem. Consequently, the authors compared this method to the single K-nearest neighbor (KNN) method, the ensemble method of extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost-2016) with the CART base model and the optimal equation of EVM, the earned schedule (ES) equation with the performance factor equal to 1 (ES1). The paper also sought to determine the extent to which the World Bank's two legal factors affect countries and how the two legal causes of delay (related to institutional flaws) influence AD prediction models.

In this paper, data from 30 construction projects of various building types in Iran, Pakistan, India, Turkey, Malaysia and Nigeria (due to the high number of delayed projects and the detrimental effects of these delays in these countries) were used to develop three models. The target variable of the models was a dimensionless output, the ratio of estimated duration to completion (ETC(t)) to planned duration (PD). Furthermore, 426 tracking periods were used to build the three models, with 353 samples and 23 projects in the training set, 73 patterns (17% of the total) and six projects (21% of the total) in the testing set. Furthermore, 17 dimensionless input variables were used, including ten variables based on the main variables and performance indices of EVM and several other variables detailed in the study. The three models were subsequently created using Python and several GitHub-hosted codes.

For the testing set of the optimal model (NGBoost), the better percentage mean (better%) of the prediction error (based on projects with a lower error percentage) of the NGBoost compared to two KNN and ES1 single models, as well as the total mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and mean lags (MeLa) (indicating model stability) were 100, 83.33, 5.62 and 3.17%, respectively. Notably, the total MAPE and MeLa for the NGBoost model testing set, which had ten EVM-based input variables, were 6.74 and 5.20%, respectively. The ensemble artificial intelligence (AI) models exhibited a much lower MAPE than ES1. Additionally, ES1 was less stable in prediction than NGBoost. The possibility of excessive and unusual MAPE and MeLa values occurred only in the two single models. However, on some data sets, ES1 outperformed AI models. NGBoost also outperformed other models, especially single models for most developing countries, and was more accurate than previously presented optimized models. In addition, sensitivity analysis was conducted on the NGBoost predicted outputs of 30 projects using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method. All variables demonstrated an effect on ETC(t)/PD. The results revealed that the most influential input variables in order of importance were actual time (AT) to PD, regulatory quality (RQ), earned duration (ED) to PD, schedule cost index (SCI), planned complete percentage, rule of law (RL), actual complete percentage (ACP) and ETC(t) of the ES optimal equation to PD. The probabilistic hybrid model was selected based on the outputs predicted by the NGBoost and XGBoost models and the MAPE values from three AI models. The 95% prediction interval of the NGBoost–XGBoost model revealed that 96.10 and 98.60% of the actual output values of the testing and training sets are within this interval, respectively.

Due to the use of projects performed in different countries, it was not possible to distribute the questionnaire to the managers and stakeholders of 30 projects in six developing countries. Due to the low number of EVM-based projects in various references, it was unfeasible to utilize other types of projects. Future prospects include evaluating the accuracy and stability of NGBoost for timely and non-fluctuating projects (mostly in developed countries), considering a greater number of legal/institutional variables as input, using legal/institutional/internal/inflation inputs for complex projects with extremely high uncertainty (such as bridge and road construction) and integrating these inputs and NGBoost with new technologies (such as blockchain, radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, building information modeling (BIM) and Internet of things (IoT)).

The legal/intuitive recommendations made to governments are strict control of prices, adequate supervision, removal of additional rules, removal of unfair regulations, clarification of the future trend of a law change, strict monitoring of property rights, simplification of the processes for obtaining permits and elimination of unnecessary changes particularly in developing countries and at the onset of irregular projects with limited information and numerous uncertainties. Furthermore, the managers and stakeholders of this group of projects were informed of the significance of seven construction variables (institutional/legal external risks, internal factors and inflation) at an early stage, using time series (dynamic) models to predict AD, accurate calculation of progress percentage variables, the effectiveness of building type in non-residential projects, regular updating inflation during implementation, effectiveness of employer type in the early stage of public projects in addition to the late stage of private projects, and allocating reserve duration (buffer) in order to respond to institutional/legal risks.

Ensemble methods were optimized in 70% of references. To the authors' knowledge, NGBoost from the set of ensemble methods was not used to estimate construction project duration and delays. NGBoost is an effective method for considering uncertainties in irregular projects and is often implemented in developing countries. Furthermore, AD estimation models do fail to incorporate RQ and RL from the World Bank's worldwide governance indicators (WGI) as risk-based inputs. In addition, the various WGI, EVM and inflation variables are not combined with substantial degrees of delay institutional risks as inputs. Consequently, due to the existence of critical and complex risks in different countries, it is vital to consider legal and institutional factors. This is especially recommended if an in-depth, accurate and reality-based method like SHAP is used for analysis.

]]>
Estimation of building project completion duration using a natural gradient boosting ensemble model and legal and institutional variables10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1170Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-12-26© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedFarshad PeimanMohammad KhalilzadehNasser Shahsavari-PourMehdi RavanshadniaEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-12-2610.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1170https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1170/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Optimization of production schedules of multi-plants for dispatching ready-mix concrete trucks by integrating grey wolf optimizer and dragonfly algorithmhttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1176/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe paper aims to provide an efficient dispatching schedule for ready-mix concrete (RMC) trucks and create a balance between batch plants and construction sites. The paper focused on developing a new metaheuristic swarm intelligence algorithm using Java code. The paper used statistical criterion: mean, standard deviation, running time to verify the effectiveness of the proposed optimization method and compared its derivatives with other algorithms, such as genetic algorithm (GA), Tabu search (TS), bee colony optimization (BCO), ant lion optimizer (ALO), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), dragonfly algorithm (DA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO). The paper proved that integrating GWO and DA yields better results than independent algorithms and some selected algorithms in the literature. It also suggests that multi-independent batch plants could effectively cooperate in a system to deliver RMC to various construction sites. The paper provides a compelling new hybrid swarm intelligence algorithm and a model allowing multi-independent batch plants to work in a system to deliver RMC. It fulfills an identified need to study how batch plant managers can expand their dispatching network, increase their competitiveness and improve their supply chain operations.Optimization of production schedules of multi-plants for dispatching ready-mix concrete trucks by integrating grey wolf optimizer and dragonfly algorithm
Vu Hong Son Pham, Nguyen Thi Nha Trang, Chau Quang Dat
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The paper aims to provide an efficient dispatching schedule for ready-mix concrete (RMC) trucks and create a balance between batch plants and construction sites.

The paper focused on developing a new metaheuristic swarm intelligence algorithm using Java code. The paper used statistical criterion: mean, standard deviation, running time to verify the effectiveness of the proposed optimization method and compared its derivatives with other algorithms, such as genetic algorithm (GA), Tabu search (TS), bee colony optimization (BCO), ant lion optimizer (ALO), grey wolf optimizer (GWO), dragonfly algorithm (DA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO).

The paper proved that integrating GWO and DA yields better results than independent algorithms and some selected algorithms in the literature. It also suggests that multi-independent batch plants could effectively cooperate in a system to deliver RMC to various construction sites.

The paper provides a compelling new hybrid swarm intelligence algorithm and a model allowing multi-independent batch plants to work in a system to deliver RMC. It fulfills an identified need to study how batch plant managers can expand their dispatching network, increase their competitiveness and improve their supply chain operations.

]]>
Optimization of production schedules of multi-plants for dispatching ready-mix concrete trucks by integrating grey wolf optimizer and dragonfly algorithm10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1176Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-05-29© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedVu Hong Son PhamNguyen Thi Nha TrangChau Quang DatEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-05-2910.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1176https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1176/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Integrating as-built BIM model from point cloud data in construction projectshttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1196/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestAs laser scanning technology becomes readily available and affordable, there is an increasing demand of using point cloud data collected from a laser scanner to create as-built building information modeling (BIM) models for quality assessment, schedule control and energy performance within construction projects. To enhance the as-built modeling efficiency, this study explores an integrated system, called Auto-Scan-To-BIM (ASTB), with an aim to automatically generate a complete Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) model consisted of the 3D building elements for the given building based on its point cloud without requiring additional modeling tools. ASTB has been developed with three function modules. Taking the scanned point data as input, Module 1 is built on the basis of the widely used region segmentation methodology and expanded with enhanced plane boundary line detection methods and corner recalibration algorithms. Then, Module 2 is developed with a domain knowledge-based heuristic method to analyze the features of the recognized planes, to associate them with corresponding building elements and to create BIM models. Based on the spatial relationships between these building elements, Module 3 generates a complete IFC model for the entire project compatible with any BIM software. A case study validated the ASTB with an application with five common types of building elements (e.g. wall, floor, ceiling, window and door). First, an integrated system, ASTB, is developed to generate a BIM model from scanned point cloud data without using additional modeling tools. Second, an enhanced plane boundary line detection method and a corner recalibration algorithm are developed in ASTB with high accuracy in obtaining the true surface planes. At last, the research contributes to develop a module, which can automatically convert the identified building elements into an IFC format based on the geometry and spatial relationships of each plan.Integrating as-built BIM model from point cloud data in construction projects
Ruochen Zeng, Jonathan J.S. Shi, Chao Wang, Tao Lu
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

As laser scanning technology becomes readily available and affordable, there is an increasing demand of using point cloud data collected from a laser scanner to create as-built building information modeling (BIM) models for quality assessment, schedule control and energy performance within construction projects. To enhance the as-built modeling efficiency, this study explores an integrated system, called Auto-Scan-To-BIM (ASTB), with an aim to automatically generate a complete Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) model consisted of the 3D building elements for the given building based on its point cloud without requiring additional modeling tools.

ASTB has been developed with three function modules. Taking the scanned point data as input, Module 1 is built on the basis of the widely used region segmentation methodology and expanded with enhanced plane boundary line detection methods and corner recalibration algorithms. Then, Module 2 is developed with a domain knowledge-based heuristic method to analyze the features of the recognized planes, to associate them with corresponding building elements and to create BIM models. Based on the spatial relationships between these building elements, Module 3 generates a complete IFC model for the entire project compatible with any BIM software.

A case study validated the ASTB with an application with five common types of building elements (e.g. wall, floor, ceiling, window and door).

First, an integrated system, ASTB, is developed to generate a BIM model from scanned point cloud data without using additional modeling tools. Second, an enhanced plane boundary line detection method and a corner recalibration algorithm are developed in ASTB with high accuracy in obtaining the true surface planes. At last, the research contributes to develop a module, which can automatically convert the identified building elements into an IFC format based on the geometry and spatial relationships of each plan.

]]>
Integrating as-built BIM model from point cloud data in construction projects10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1196Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-07-19© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedRuochen ZengJonathan J.S. ShiChao WangTao LuEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-07-1910.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1196https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1196/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Ecological restoration for mega-infrastructure projects: a study based on multi-source heterogeneous datahttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1197/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis research aims to propose a model for the complex decision-making involved in the ecological restoration of mega-infrastructure (e.g. railway engineering). This model is based on multi-source heterogeneous data and will enable stakeholders to solve practical problems in decision-making processes and prevent delayed responses to the demand for ecological restoration. Based on the principle of complexity degradation, this research collects and brings together multi-source heterogeneous data, including meteorological station data, remote sensing image data, railway engineering ecological risk text data and ecological restoration text data. Further, this research establishes an ecological restoration plan library to form input feature vectors. Random forest is used for classification decisions. The ecological restoration technologies and restoration plant species suitable for different regions are generated. This research can effectively assist managers of mega-infrastructure projects in making ecological restoration decisions. The accuracy of the model reaches 0.83. Based on the natural environment and construction disturbances in different regions, this model can determine suitable types of trees, shrubs and herbs for planting, as well as the corresponding ecological restoration technologies needed. Managers should pay attention to the multiple types of data generated in different stages of megaproject and identify the internal relationships between these multi-source heterogeneous data, which provides a decision-making basis for complex management decisions. The coupling between ecological restoration technologies and restoration plant species is also an important factor in improving the efficiency of ecological compensation. Unlike previous studies, which have selected a typical section of a railway for specialized analysis, the complex decision-making model for ecological restoration proposed in this research has wider geographical applicability and can better meet the diverse ecological restoration needs of railway projects that span large regions.Ecological restoration for mega-infrastructure projects: a study based on multi-source heterogeneous data
Ruizhen Song, Xin Gao, Haonan Nan, Saixing Zeng, Vivian W.Y. Tam
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This research aims to propose a model for the complex decision-making involved in the ecological restoration of mega-infrastructure (e.g. railway engineering). This model is based on multi-source heterogeneous data and will enable stakeholders to solve practical problems in decision-making processes and prevent delayed responses to the demand for ecological restoration.

Based on the principle of complexity degradation, this research collects and brings together multi-source heterogeneous data, including meteorological station data, remote sensing image data, railway engineering ecological risk text data and ecological restoration text data. Further, this research establishes an ecological restoration plan library to form input feature vectors. Random forest is used for classification decisions. The ecological restoration technologies and restoration plant species suitable for different regions are generated.

This research can effectively assist managers of mega-infrastructure projects in making ecological restoration decisions. The accuracy of the model reaches 0.83. Based on the natural environment and construction disturbances in different regions, this model can determine suitable types of trees, shrubs and herbs for planting, as well as the corresponding ecological restoration technologies needed.

Managers should pay attention to the multiple types of data generated in different stages of megaproject and identify the internal relationships between these multi-source heterogeneous data, which provides a decision-making basis for complex management decisions. The coupling between ecological restoration technologies and restoration plant species is also an important factor in improving the efficiency of ecological compensation.

Unlike previous studies, which have selected a typical section of a railway for specialized analysis, the complex decision-making model for ecological restoration proposed in this research has wider geographical applicability and can better meet the diverse ecological restoration needs of railway projects that span large regions.

]]>
Ecological restoration for mega-infrastructure projects: a study based on multi-source heterogeneous data10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1197Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-11-23© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedRuizhen SongXin GaoHaonan NanSaixing ZengVivian W.Y. TamEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-11-2310.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1197https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1197/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Exploring mega-construction project success in China's vaunted Belt and Road Initiative: the role of paternalistic leadership, team members' voice and team resiliencehttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1201/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThe traditional Chinese culture has always emphasized the authority of leaders and their “top-down” influence over subordinates tangled with “bottom-up” management. Paternalistic leadership can both nurture and restrict growth in mega-construction projects, due to the unique consequences (i.e. positive vs negative implications) for project teams. Hence, the present study aimed to explore the impact of paternalistic leadership (PL), team members’ voice (TMV) and team resilience (TR) on the mega-construction project success (MPS) in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). A surveyed-based sample of project professionals (N = 563) directly linked with the BRI was employed for statistical estimations with partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM). Paternalistic leadership styles, including authoritarian leadership (AL), moral leadership (ML) and benevolent leadership (BL), significantly influence the mega-construction project success in BRI. The findings empirically validated that both BL and ML increase the likelihood of mega-construction project success. However, AL could impose a threat through its underlying negative influence. In addition, leaders with benevolence and morality have a positive influence on TMV and TR, while leaders with authoritarianism signal a negative impact. Furthermore, both TMV and TR significantly and positively mediate the relationships between AL-MPS (Model-1), BL-MPS (Model-2) and ML-MPS (Model-3), respectively. The present study is a groundbreaking endeavor that fills a crucial research gap by investigating mega-construction project success in the BRI through paternalistic leadership, project team members' voice and team resilience in a multi-mediation model. These novel findings offer valuable strategic insights for managing mega-construction projects in countries with paternalistic solid cultural foundations, enabling project managers to navigate cultural nuances and optimize megaproject outcomes.Exploring mega-construction project success in China's vaunted Belt and Road Initiative: the role of paternalistic leadership, team members' voice and team resilience
Gong Yunpeng, Umer Zaman
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

The traditional Chinese culture has always emphasized the authority of leaders and their “top-down” influence over subordinates tangled with “bottom-up” management. Paternalistic leadership can both nurture and restrict growth in mega-construction projects, due to the unique consequences (i.e. positive vs negative implications) for project teams. Hence, the present study aimed to explore the impact of paternalistic leadership (PL), team members’ voice (TMV) and team resilience (TR) on the mega-construction project success (MPS) in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

A surveyed-based sample of project professionals (N = 563) directly linked with the BRI was employed for statistical estimations with partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM).

Paternalistic leadership styles, including authoritarian leadership (AL), moral leadership (ML) and benevolent leadership (BL), significantly influence the mega-construction project success in BRI. The findings empirically validated that both BL and ML increase the likelihood of mega-construction project success. However, AL could impose a threat through its underlying negative influence. In addition, leaders with benevolence and morality have a positive influence on TMV and TR, while leaders with authoritarianism signal a negative impact. Furthermore, both TMV and TR significantly and positively mediate the relationships between AL-MPS (Model-1), BL-MPS (Model-2) and ML-MPS (Model-3), respectively.

The present study is a groundbreaking endeavor that fills a crucial research gap by investigating mega-construction project success in the BRI through paternalistic leadership, project team members' voice and team resilience in a multi-mediation model. These novel findings offer valuable strategic insights for managing mega-construction projects in countries with paternalistic solid cultural foundations, enabling project managers to navigate cultural nuances and optimize megaproject outcomes.

]]>
Exploring mega-construction project success in China's vaunted Belt and Road Initiative: the role of paternalistic leadership, team members' voice and team resilience10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1201Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2023-09-14© 2023 Emerald Publishing LimitedGong YunpengUmer ZamanEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2023-09-1410.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1201https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1201/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2023 Emerald Publishing Limited
Influencing factors and governance strategies of megaproject complexity based on fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysishttps://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1203/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatestThis study aims to obtain governance strategies for managing the complexity of megaprojects by analyzing the impact of individual factors and their configurations using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method and to provide references for project managers. With the continuous development of the economy, society and construction industry, the number and scale of megaprojects are increasing, and the complexity is becoming serious. Based on the relevant literature, the factors affecting the complexity of megaprojects are determined through case analysis, and the paths of factors affecting the complexity are constructed for megaprojects. Then, the fsQCA method is used to analyze the factors affecting the complexity of megaprojects through 245 valid questionnaires from project engineers in this study. The results support the correlation between the complexity factors of megaprojects, with six histological paths leading to high complexity and seven histological paths leading to low complexity. It breaks the limitations of the traditional project complexity field through a “configuration perspective” and concludes that megaproject complexity is a synergistic effect of multiple factors. The study is important for enriching the theory of megaproject complexity and providing complexity governance strategies for managers in megaproject decision-making.Influencing factors and governance strategies of megaproject complexity based on fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis
Quntao Wu, Qiushi Bo, Lan Luo, Chenxi Yang, Jianwang Wang
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print, pp.-

This study aims to obtain governance strategies for managing the complexity of megaprojects by analyzing the impact of individual factors and their configurations using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method and to provide references for project managers.

With the continuous development of the economy, society and construction industry, the number and scale of megaprojects are increasing, and the complexity is becoming serious. Based on the relevant literature, the factors affecting the complexity of megaprojects are determined through case analysis, and the paths of factors affecting the complexity are constructed for megaprojects. Then, the fsQCA method is used to analyze the factors affecting the complexity of megaprojects through 245 valid questionnaires from project engineers in this study.

The results support the correlation between the complexity factors of megaprojects, with six histological paths leading to high complexity and seven histological paths leading to low complexity.

It breaks the limitations of the traditional project complexity field through a “configuration perspective” and concludes that megaproject complexity is a synergistic effect of multiple factors. The study is important for enriching the theory of megaproject complexity and providing complexity governance strategies for managers in megaproject decision-making.

]]>
Influencing factors and governance strategies of megaproject complexity based on fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1203Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management2024-02-02© 2024 Emerald Publishing LimitedQuntao WuQiushi BoLan LuoChenxi YangJianwang WangEngineering, Construction and Architectural Managementahead-of-printahead-of-print2024-02-0210.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1203https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/ECAM-12-2022-1203/full/html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=rss_journalLatest© 2024 Emerald Publishing Limited