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Article
Publication date: 1 June 2005

C.M. Tam and Thomas K.L. Tong

Accurate estimation or prediction of the resource required for a project is very important for construction. The more accurate the prediction model, the greater the potential for…

269

Abstract

Accurate estimation or prediction of the resource required for a project is very important for construction. The more accurate the prediction model, the greater the potential for cost savings will be through elimination of any redesign and the minimization of the maintenance expenses. Contractors can also make use of the models for last‐minute bid estimation. In the past the estimators perform the task by analogy with similar previous projects. This approach highly relies on their experience and knowledge. Owing to the lack of a scientific and easily apprehensible method in resource estimation, prediction outcomes are mainly based on humans’ perception, which is inconsistent and exhibits large variations. This paper proposes the use of multiple Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH) models in developing models for resource estimation. The illustrative example has demonstrated the high accuracy of the approach which is superior to other architectures based on artificial neural networks.

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Construction Innovation, vol. 5 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 2003

C.M. Tam, Thomas K.L. Tong and C.T. Lau

In this paper, we discuss how a multi‐criteria decision‐making technique (ELECTRE III) facilitates construction practitioners in decision making for selecting an appropriate…

609

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss how a multi‐criteria decision‐making technique (ELECTRE III) facilitates construction practitioners in decision making for selecting an appropriate construction plant. We first introduce the theoretical background of the technique. Then a case study on how to apply the technique to select concrete vibrators is presented. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the model in outranking various options in the process of concrete vibrator selection. The use of ELECTRE III can systematically analyse expert judgments on the decision factors and alternatives that can rationalize the selection process.

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Construction Innovation, vol. 3 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 1996

CHING MING TAM and FRANK HARRIS

This study describes the development of operational research models for predicting contractor performance in Hong Kong, using discriminant and multiple regression analysis…

526

Abstract

This study describes the development of operational research models for predicting contractor performance in Hong Kong, using discriminant and multiple regression analysis techniques. An important aim was to determine the underlying factors that influence contractor performance as seen from the client's point of view, and also to develop accurate models to assist clients in vetting contractors for building projects. The resultant models produced six significant variables measuring three dimensions: the inherent characteristics of the project, the contractor's internal attributes and the external influence of the project team. Specifically these were the complexity of the project, working experience of the project leaders, percentage of professionally qualified staff of the contracting firm, past performance of the contractor, origin of the contractor and the level of the architect's or client's supervision and control of the quality of work and work progress.

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Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 3 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 1 December 2002

S. Chritamara, S.O. Ogunlana and N.L. Bach

Design and build (D/B) construction methods have gained more importance in recent years for their potential advantages in improving project performance. There are, however, a…

2427

Abstract

Design and build (D/B) construction methods have gained more importance in recent years for their potential advantages in improving project performance. There are, however, a number of problems that are commonplace in D/B procurement, which, when they interact with each other, can lead to project time and cost overrun problems. The most important among them are design changes, together with communication and coordination lapses among concerned parties. Past research has focused only on the characteristics of the traditional construction, or separate sub‐systems such as different phases or human resource input to projects. An attempt is made in this paper to improve D/B project time and cost performance. A generic system dynamics model is developed that incorporates major sub‐systems and their relationships inherent in D/B constructions projects. It is validated and calibrated for a typical large D/B infrastructure project using time and cost overrun problems experienced in Thailand. Extensive simulations with many policies, individually or in various combinations, show that improvement in time or cost can be made with proper policy combinations that reflect strong interactions between the whole design and build system and can be derived only if these interactions are accounted for. To achieve overall improvement in both time and cost, the combination of full overtime schedule, average material ordering, and fast track construction with moderate crashing of design is most appropriate. If cost is the focus, extending the construction schedule, combined with material ordering based on actual need, and design and build with traditional construction method is the best solution.

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Construction Innovation, vol. 2 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

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Article
Publication date: 7 September 2010

Jane L.J. Hao, Vivian W.Y. Tam, H.P. Yuan, J.Y. Wang and J.R. Li

The aim of this paper is to develop a model based on system dynamics (SD) approach, which integrates three subsystems for simulating construction and demolition (C&D) waste…

2537

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to develop a model based on system dynamics (SD) approach, which integrates three subsystems for simulating construction and demolition (C&D) waste management in Shenzhen, Mainland China.

Design/methodology/approach

SD approach was first used to construct the model for C&D waste management in Shenzhen. The model was then converted for running on computer through the software package “iThink”, which was specifically designed for SD modeling. The data required for model simulation was derived through various ways, including literature review, examination of official reports and yearbooks, and questionnaires. After all the parameters in the model were determined, simulation was carried out.

Findings

The model proposed in this research can provide an experimental simulation platform to investigate the complexity and interdependencies of factors in managing C&D waste in Shenzhen, Mainland China. The simulation results show that the pressing situation of C&D waste management in Shenzhen would aggravate if no effective measures were taken to address it during the simulation period. Participants' active participation and cost consideration are the two major factors affecting C&D waste reduction. Furthermore, new landfills should be planned to properly handle the C&D waste accumulated in Shenzhen over the past few years.

Originality/value

Although some studies have been conducted under the topic of C&D waste management during the past few years in Shenzhen – how to effectively and efficiently handle the waste is still unsolved. Factors affecting the effectiveness of C&D waste management have separately been examined in the previous studies, without considering their interrelations. The SD‐based model is developed in this research to investigate the complex and interdependent relationships among these factors. The model can deepen participants' understandings about C&D waste management and help explore the major factors affecting the effectiveness of management activities. The measures, which are proposed based on the simulation results, can serve as a valuable reference for planning C&D waste management in Shenzhen.

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Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 17 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 20 December 2024

Sameer Kumar, Bharti Ramtiyal, Gunjan Soni, Lokesh Vijayvargy, Charu Chandra and Ishaan Dey

Traceability is predicted to usher in a fundamental shift in the way transactions in supply chains (SCs) are carried out. By reducing the negative aspects of trust-related issues…

46

Abstract

Purpose

Traceability is predicted to usher in a fundamental shift in the way transactions in supply chains (SCs) are carried out. By reducing the negative aspects of trust-related issues in a SC, traceability enables improved visibility and transparency.

Design/methodology/approach

We advance research on traceability adoption in the perishable products supply chain by developing and validating an integrated model that combines the technology acceptance model (TAM), the technology readiness index (TRI) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB). A quantitative approach was employed, collecting data through an online survey of 174 supply chain professionals in major Indian cities using a five-point Likert scale. Participants were selected via LinkedIn, each with at least two years of SCM experience. Nonresponse bias was assessed by comparing early and late respondents, revealing no significant differences. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test various research hypotheses derived from literature. Composite reliability and discriminant validity of constructs were verified before examining the relationships among the constructs within the structural model.

Findings

The study found that the TRI components of optimism and innovation did not impact perceived ease of use or perceived utility. Additionally, behavioral intention is shaped by perceived utility, attitude and perceived behavioral control.

Practical implications

This research provides valuable insights for managers aiming to adopt traceability in supply chains (SCs). It helps identify critical factors for effective traceability adoption, showing that perceived ease of use (PEU) and perceived usefulness are pivotal in shaping practitioners’ intentions. Managers should prioritize developing intuitive, user-friendly traceability applications that demonstrate clear value in optimizing SC efficiency. The study also reveals that while practitioners are generally optimistic about traceability, they may feel indifferent or lack a sense of control over it. Therefore, companies should focus on marketing strategies that empower decision-makers, highlighting the ease of use and practical benefits of traceability. Additionally, the findings suggest that perceived behavioral control, combined with intention, can effectively predict traceability adoption. By understanding these dynamics, managers can better guide their firms in successfully implementing traceability, ensuring both technological acceptance and operational efficiency.

Originality/value

This research offers a novel and in-depth exploration of traceability as an emerging concept in supply chains, particularly in India, where adoption remains limited. It highlights that while SC practitioners recognize traceability’s potential, they lack practical expertise, often driven by curiosity about decentralized databases. It underscores the critical role of artificial intelligence, IoT devices and big data in ensuring precise data collection and analytics, essential for successful traceability. The research also introduces a predictive model combining TAM, TRI and TPB constructs, identifying perceived usefulness, attitude and perceived behavioral control as key factors influencing traceability adoption.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 1 April 2003

Thomas K.L. Tong and C.M. Tam

Multi‐skilled labour allocation in a defined time frame falls into the class of non‐polynomial (NP) hard problems, solutions to which can only be obtained through repeated trials…

668

Abstract

Multi‐skilled labour allocation in a defined time frame falls into the class of non‐polynomial (NP) hard problems, solutions to which can only be obtained through repeated trials and errors. The application of fuzzy genetic algorithms (GA) optimisation model provides an efficient way to arrive at a “near‐optimal” solution. In this paper, a fuzzy GA optimisation model of labour allocation is presented to illustrate how the near optimal solution can be obtained.

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Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 10 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 8 March 2022

Roya Amiri, Javad Majrouhi Sardroud and Vahid Momenaei Kermani

The site layout has a significant impact on the efficiency of construction operations. Planning an effective site layout partly involves identifying and positioning temporary…

376

Abstract

Purpose

The site layout has a significant impact on the efficiency of construction operations. Planning an effective site layout partly involves identifying and positioning temporary facilities such as tower cranes and areas on the jobsite for materials storage. This study proposes an approach to optimizing the type and location of the tower crane and material supply point on construction sites.

Design/methodology/approach

The problem is formulated into an integer linear programming (ILP) model considering the total cost of material transportation as the objective function and site conditions as constraints. The efficacy of the approach is demonstrated by finding the optimum site layout for a numerical example. The proposed model is validated and verified using two methods.

Findings

Results indicate that the proposed model successfully identifies the type and location of the tower crane and the location of material supply point, leading to approximately 20% cost reduction compared with when such features of a site layout are decided solely based on experience and educated guesses of the construction manager.

Originality/value

The primary contribution of this study is to present a modified linear mathematical model for site layout optimization that exhibits improved performance compared with previous models. The type and location of the tower crane and the material supply point as decision variables are extracted directly from solving the proposed model. The proposed model will help enhance time and cost efficiency on construction sites.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 5 July 2019

Ruchini Senarath Jayasinghe, Nicholas Chileshe and Raufdeen Rameezdeen

The purpose of this paper is to explore the synergies among reverse logistics supply chain (RLSC), quality management (QM) and information management (IM) concepts to enhance the…

1626

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the synergies among reverse logistics supply chain (RLSC), quality management (QM) and information management (IM) concepts to enhance the effectiveness of demolition waste management (DWM) practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted using 70 articles published between the years of 2006 and 2017, which were subjected to descriptive and thematic analysis.

Findings

The descriptive analysis established that the RLSC concept was dealt within the majority of the publications (61 per cent), followed by concepts related to quality in RLSC (24 per cent). Only 14 per cent of the articles were based on IM concepts related to RLSC. Quality and information are interrelated in the effective implementation of RLSC. The thematic analysis demonstrated that there is a need for using quality parameters in a regulatory environment in an information-based environment. Based on the findings, future research directions were developed.

Research limitations/implications

The study encourages researchers to identify novel directions by combining these three concepts. The study developed a future research agenda regarding use of building information modelling (BIM) for existing buildings under novel technologies; analysis of secondary market demand and supply; and assessment of cost and safety management with quality in a BIM-enabled environment.

Practical implications

The practical implications include the application of sustainable management principles based on stakeholders and the regulatory environment.

Originality/value

Integration of the three concepts is an emerging area. This integration developed a robust approach to achieve QM in RLSC operations under a sound information flow enabling the optimisation of DWM.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. 26 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

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Article
Publication date: 16 August 2021

Gayathri Giri and Hansa Lysander Manohar

Drawing inspiration from the organizational information processing theory, the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the theory of motivation, this study aims to examine the…

1829

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing inspiration from the organizational information processing theory, the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the theory of motivation, this study aims to examine the acceptance of private and public blockchain technology-based collaboration among supply chain practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 257 samples were collected through a survey from supply chain practitioners. The study used parallel mediators of perceived usefulness (extrinsic motivation) and perceived ease of use (intrinsic motivation) to measure behavioral intention to use.

Findings

The results reveal that partial mediation exists between blockchain-based collaboration (private and public) and behavioral intention to use. For perceived usefulness, a stronger mediating effect was found between private blockchain-based collaboration and behavioral intention to use. For perceived ease of use, a stronger mediating effect was found between public blockchain-based collaboration and behavioral intention to use.

Originality/value

By integrating insights from the organizational information processing theory, the TAM and the theory of motivation, this study provides an in-depth understanding of how the distinct features of information processing in blockchain technology-based collaboration influence the supply chain practitioners’ to accept it. The novelty and results of the study expand the existing literature and pave the way for future research.

Details

Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, vol. 28 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1359-8546

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