Francisco Loforte Robeiro and Peter E.D. Love
Many construction organizations have begun to acknowledge that to improve the performance of their supply chains they need to establish long‐term relationships with suppliers so…
Abstract
Many construction organizations have begun to acknowledge that to improve the performance of their supply chains they need to establish long‐term relationships with suppliers so that mutual dependencies can be created. However, to create economic value, as well as support interorganizational connectivity in the supply chain, an e‐business infrastructure supported by Internet and Web technologies is required. Using two case studies, this paper demonstrates how the adoption of an e‐business strategy can be used to create value throughout the supply chain in construction. Interviews with the information technology managers involved with the two case studies were undertaken to provide insights into the benefits and limitations of the technologies used to service business‐to‐business (B2B) and business‐to‐consumer (B2C) activities. In addition, the paper suggests how different Internet and Web‐based technologies can be used by construction contractors, particularly small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) to gain a competitive advantage in their respective marketplaces.
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Patrick T.I. Lam and Kelvin S.H. Mok
This study aims to identify the challenges facing innovative startups in the construction environment, recommending possible self-help measures and society support.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify the challenges facing innovative startups in the construction environment, recommending possible self-help measures and society support.
Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive literature survey informed a questionnaire survey on built environment startups in Hong Kong, followed by a statistical analysis and supplemented by written views of respondents. Validation by experts confirms the survey results.
Findings
Triangulated findings highlight the problems of conservative policies, investors’ preference on short payback periods, price competition, high operation cost and a lack of promotion channels. The firm’s size and its age differentiate its networking and fund-raising capabilities.
Research limitations/implications
While the survey samples cover the spread of startups in Hong Kong’s construction/real estate industries well, the number is still limited because the city is relatively compact. The barriers and solutions may be particularly relevant to the built environment there, but also worth noting elsewhere.
Practical implications
Built environment startups are emerging and their path of development is obscured by industry barriers. While the findings reflect the current situation in Hong Kong, which is a metropolitan city with a vibrant construction market, government policies may present a varying factor in different economies. Conservatism in the construction industry may also be a hindrance, but gradual signs of improvements are seen.
Originality/value
The recommendations provided may help mitigate the problems of startup growth. They also provide insights into the construction “startup eco-system” worth the attention of policy makers and project managers, who may make better use of the innovative technology and services of built environment startups if the difficulties are alleviated.