Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Anthony Ogochukwu Onokwai and Oluyemi Oladeji Faleti
Construction industry is a vital sector for economic and national development. However, the industry suffers buildability problems. Improving construction projects buildability is…
Abstract
Purpose
Construction industry is a vital sector for economic and national development. However, the industry suffers buildability problems. Improving construction projects buildability is the duty of every key stakeholder. Thus, this study aims to identify and evaluate the project designers’ roles in improving construction projects buildability in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted quantitative research method. A purposive sampling approach was used in identifying the representative sample for the administration of the questionnaire survey. A total of 122 questionnaires were distributed to the targeted construction professionals, out of which 93 questionnaires were sufficiently filled and returned, representing a response rate of 76%. This study used descriptive and inferential statistics for data analyses.
Findings
The results from factors analysis show that the roles of project designers in improving construction projects buildability in Nigeria can be categorised into two constructs: “discuss fully the design objectives with builders” and “prepare cost effective and buildable designs”.
Originality/value
This study contributed to more effective buildability studies by highlighting the roles of project designers in improving construction projects buildability in the construction industry. An understanding of these roles is vital for reducing buildability problems as well as for improving and embedding buildability as a practice in construction management.
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Buildability assessment is an important tool used in improving buildability of building designs. Its practice has positive impact on construction project such as cost-saving…
Abstract
Purpose
Buildability assessment is an important tool used in improving buildability of building designs. Its practice has positive impact on construction project such as cost-saving, material waste reduction, labour-saving technologies, increase in efficiency, saving wasteful efforts and quality improvement as well as cost-effective methods of site construction and future maintenance. However, there are several factors hindering building construction industry to implement buildability assessment. In addition, there are few studies that described the factors impeding the implementation of buildability assessment in construction industry. This study aims to determine the factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the Nigerian building construction industry
Design/methodology/approach
Quantitative research method was adopted for the study. Questionnaires were administered to purposively selected group of architects, engineers, builders and quantity surveyors. A total of 368 questionnaires were distributed among the sampled participants, out of which a total of 219 representing 60% were sufficiently filled and returned. Data elicited were analysed using inferential and descriptive statistics.
Findings
The results revealed that “poor co-ordination amongst different design disciplines”, “lack of buildability assessment awareness”, “design review pattern where construction personnel (builders) are invited to assess the building production information”, “unwillingness to invest extra money and effort during the early stage of project” and “designers value aesthetics and functionalities more than buildability in their designs” are the topmost five factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the Nigerian construction industry.
Originality/value
This study highlights factors impeding the implementation of buildability assessment in construction industry. An understanding of these factors can help stakeholders in the construction industry facilitate the development of strategies required to mitigate the factors impeding buildability assessment implementation in the sector.
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The construction projects tends to perform poorly. Non-integration of buildability into the project procurement process is one of the reasons for the observed poor performance. To…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction projects tends to perform poorly. Non-integration of buildability into the project procurement process is one of the reasons for the observed poor performance. To address this issue and close the gap in the existing knowledge, this paper proposes buildability-led procurement (BLP), a new procurement method for future construction projects in view to enhance buildability of complex private and public projects delivery as well as improving both organisation and project performance.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper adopts qualitative research approach and uses an integrated literature review method to synthesise literature from diverse domain so as to propose a five-stage BLP plan for implementation in construction industry.
Findings
Based on the information gleaned from the literature review, a BLP model was conceptualised. Adoption of the BLP model would lead to significant improvement in project outcomes. The model’s main innovation lies in the possibility of providing an optimised design solution for the project at the design stage.
Originality/value
This study proposed an innovative procurement method with practical plan for implementation and the possibility for improved project performance in the construction industry. BLP model implementation may lead to reduced waste, rework and removal of obstacles experienced during the construction phase. The proposed model marks a new strategy in procurement which enables the delivery of best quality project within a reasonable and justifiable cost and time in complex private and public projects. Hence, it makes a valuable contribution towards the buildability enhancement of complex projects as well as organisation and project performance improvement.
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Despite many studies on buildability from different perspectives and methods, the problems associated with buildability have not ceased from confronting the construction industry…
Abstract
Purpose
Despite many studies on buildability from different perspectives and methods, the problems associated with buildability have not ceased from confronting the construction industry. This paper aims to determine the critical measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
A questionnaire was developed to address the aim of the study. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires to purposively selected group of quantity surveyors, builders, engineers and architects. A total of 368 questionnaires were administered and a response rate of 60% (219 questionnaires were returned) was achieved. Data elicited were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Findings
The results revealed that “the benefits of improved buildability should be made known to designers”, “more technical literature for improving buildability should be provided to designers” and “more education and training on buildability should be given to designers” are the top most important three measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.
Originality/value
This study highlights the measures for improving buildability of building designs which are considered significant by construction professionals. An understanding of these measures is essential for reducing buildability problems as well as for improving and embedding buildability as a practice in the construction industry.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Kevin Chuks Okolie and Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi
Improving buildability of building designs with the aid of buildability assessment is essential because of the effect of designs on construction. Despite the plethora of research…
Abstract
Purpose
Improving buildability of building designs with the aid of buildability assessment is essential because of the effect of designs on construction. Despite the plethora of research into buildability reported over the years, a review of the literature shown a dearth of research into the factors supporting the implementation of buildability assessment. Because buildability assessment has been confirmed to be highly beneficial to construction business, this study aims to investigate the factors supporting the implementation of buildability assessment as a tool for buildability improvement using Nigeria as a representative case.
Design/methodology/approach
Survey research method was adopted for the study. Questionnaires were administered to a purposively selected group of architects, engineers, builders and quantity surveyors involved in construction project delivery within client, consulting and contracting organisations in Nigeria. A total of 368 questionnaires were distributed among the sampled participants, out of which, a total of 219 representing 60% were sufficiently filled and returned. Data collected were analysed using inferential and descriptive statistics.
Findings
The results revealed owner’s commitment, clients’ awareness of the benefits of conducting buildability assessment on building design, unity amongst different professionals in the construction industry, designers consider buildability important, adequate coordination amongst different design disciplines, adequate channel for co-ordination and communication between designers and constructors at the design stage and adequate support from the government as the top most seven factors supporting buildability assessment implementation in construction sector of Nigeria. Secondly, the results from the research revealed that there is no statistically significant difference in factors supporting buildability assessment implementation in construction between clients and consulting and contracting construction organisations in Nigeria.
Originality/value
The findings provide in-depth insight of the factors supporting the implementation of buildability assessment in construction that can help principal stakeholders in construction to facilitate development of strategies required in supporting the adoption and implementation of buildability assessment tool for buildability improvement.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo and Olumide Afolarin Adenuga
This study aimed at determining the decisive factors for achieving sustainable procurement in construction projects.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed at determining the decisive factors for achieving sustainable procurement in construction projects.
Design/methodology/approach
Questionnaire survey of principal stakeholders involved in construction project delivery within client, consulting and contracting organisations in Nigeria were conducted to assess stakeholders' perspectives on the decisive factors for achieving sustainable procurement in construction projects using importance weights. A total of 243 questionnaires were distributed and a response rate of 51% (123 questionnaires were adequately filled and returned) was achieved. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilised in analysing elicited data.
Findings
The results from data analysis showed that “satisfaction – including workforce satisfaction and user satisfaction”, “value for money” and “creating a healthy, nontoxic environment – including high indoor air quality” were the top most three decisive factors for achieving sustainable procurement in construction projects in Nigeria.
Originality/value
An understanding of these decisive factors can help principal stakeholders in the construction industry of developing countries to facilitate the development of methods required in supporting the adoption of sustainable procurement practice.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Mazen M. Omer, Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi, Hongping Yuan, Rahimi A. Rahman and Atinuke Adebimpe Orekan
In the face of rising concerns over air pollution in buildings, this study undertakes a systematic review of emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution, with the goal of…
Abstract
Purpose
In the face of rising concerns over air pollution in buildings, this study undertakes a systematic review of emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution, with the goal of devising a comprehensive framework to address air pollution in buildings. It begins by highlighting the critical backdrop of deteriorating air quality across global cities, setting the stage for an urgent inquiry into viable solutions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study systematically reviews the literature on emerging technologies for mitigating air pollution in buildings. In total, 2,630 related articles were identified and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method.
Findings
The findings illuminate a promising landscape of technological advancements, demonstrating significant reductions in key pollutants, including particulate matter and greenhouse gases. Innovations in filtration systems, renewable energy adoption and smart buildings emerge as pivotal in driving down pollution levels. Furthermore, the study elucidates the synergistic potential of integrating these technologies with strategic policy initiatives and community engagement efforts, highlighting the multifaceted approach required to combat air pollution effectively.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to systematically review prior literature on technologies for mitigating air pollution in buildings. The significance of this study extends beyond its theoretical contributions, offering practical insights and actionable strategies for industry professionals, policymakers and researchers. It underscores the critical intersection of technology and policy in paving the way for healthier built environments, providing a blueprint for future initiatives to achieve sustainable air quality improvements.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Opeyemi Olanrewaju Oyeyipo and Aduragbemi Deborah Olojo
This study investigates the drivers of CSR practices among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria.
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the drivers of CSR practices among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
This research adopted a questionnaire survey to achieve the aim. A purposefully chosen group of managing directors, directors, other senior construction experts or management personnel working for small, medium and large-sized construction enterprises in Nigeria were given questionnaires to complete. 196 questionnaires were issued, out of which 103 were properly completed and returned, with a return percentage of 61% which served as the basis for this study. Utilizing both descriptive and inferential statistics, the collected data were examined.
Findings
The results from the study revealed that “vision of the founder”, “creating public attention”, “competitive advantage” and “business strategy” were the top most four drivers of CSR initiatives among construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria. The results also showed that, there is a statistically significant degree of agreement between various categories of construction companies in Lagos, Nigeria regarding the drivers of CSR initiatives.
Originality/value
The study contributes more effectively to CSR studies by highlighting the drivers of CSR initiatives in construction companies. The finding would facilitate the adoption and implementation of CSR initiatives in construction organizations. The adoption of best CSR practices fosters strong relationship among construction companies, project stakeholders and communities.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Atinuke Adebimpe Orekan, Mazen M. Omer and Raphael Funsho Simon
Zero-energy building (ZEB) has been considered as an innovative approach to reducing building carbon emissions (CEs) and improving building energy performance. Despite huge…
Abstract
Purpose
Zero-energy building (ZEB) has been considered as an innovative approach to reducing building carbon emissions (CEs) and improving building energy performance. Despite huge benefits of ZEBs, there are still challenges limiting the construction of ZEBs in the construction sector. This study seeks to assess and determine the principal component of technological-related barriers to the construction of ZEBs in Nigeria.
Design/methodology/approach
The study designed a questionnaire to examine the technological-related barriers to the construction of ZEBs in Nigeria. Questionnaires were administered, and 272 valid responses were elicited. Thereafter, data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Findings
The results from the exploratory factors analysis show that the principal components of technological-related barriers to the construction of ZEBs in Nigeria are categorised into five principal components: access and awareness for technological integration and innovation; knowledge on renewable technology integration; space and complexity of sustainable energy technologies; cost and readiness for ZEB technologies; and research outcomes with practical implementation in sustainable building technologies.
Originality/value
This study contributed to more effective ZEB studies by highlighting technological-related barriers to the construction of ZEBs in construction industry. An understanding of these barriers can aid construction stakeholders, organisations, policy-makers and governments in devising strategies targeted at reducing these technological-related barriers and fostering the construction of ZEBs in construction sector. Recommendations for further study on ZEBs were also made.
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Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo, Mazen M. Omer, Rahimi A. Rahman and Olalekan Shamsideen Oshodi
This study aims to review the current trends in early contractor involvement (ECI) in construction project development. The review consist of the following objectives: (1…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to review the current trends in early contractor involvement (ECI) in construction project development. The review consist of the following objectives: (1) identifying the benefits of ECI on construction project development; (2) identifying the challenges of ECI in construction project development; and (3) identifying the strategies of ECI in construction project development.
Design/methodology/approach
This study systematically reviews the literature on the application of ECI in construction project development. A total of 133 related articles were identified and analyzed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method.
Findings
This review identified “improved team work/collaboration working relationship” as the top benefits of ECI in construction project development. “Cultural barrier” was identified as the top challenge of ECI in construction project development, while “contributing value engineering” and “buildability evaluation input”, were the top two strategies of ECI in construction project development.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to systematically review prior literature on ECI. As a result, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of the art and fills the literature gap. Researchers and industry professionals can use the study findings to increase the rate and benefits of implementing ECI in construction projects.