Search results

1 – 10 of over 11000
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 April 2001

CHEE H. WONG, GARY D. HOLT and PHIL HARRIS

The ‘lowest‐price wins’ philosophy has been a consistent theme of contractor selection over the years. To comprehensively elucidate this selection preference and compare it with…

1596

Abstract

The ‘lowest‐price wins’ philosophy has been a consistent theme of contractor selection over the years. To comprehensively elucidate this selection preference and compare it with the use of a multi‐criteria selection (MCS) approach in the tenderer evaluation process, this paper investigates MCS tender price selection preferences. That is, project‐specific criteria (PSC) and lowest‐price wins selection practices of UK construction clients, in both building and civil engineering works at in detail via results of the empirical survey. The investigation provides further insight into the evaluation of contractors' attributes (i.e. PSC). Levels of importance assigned (LIA) for each criterion were analysed (i.e. quantitative analysis of the differences in opinions and, variance amongst the respondents) in a multivariate statistical method. Importance attached by construction clients to the ‘lowest‐price wins’ philosophy is also presented. Contrast was made between the MCS approach and the ‘lowest‐price wins’ option amongst the surveyed construction clients. It was found that increased awareness of the use of PSC prevailed amongst the survey construction clients. This indicated that cost has to be tempered with the evaluation of PSC and the attempt of construction clients searching for a new evaluation paradigm (i.e. adoption of MCS approach rather than basing on the lowest‐price wins alone).

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 8 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 April 2003

C.H. Wong, J. Nicholas and G.D. Holt

Today’s growing numbers of contractor selection methodologies reflect the increasing awareness of the construction industry for improving its procurement process and performance…

1737

Abstract

Today’s growing numbers of contractor selection methodologies reflect the increasing awareness of the construction industry for improving its procurement process and performance. This paper investigates contractor classification methods that link clients’ selection aspirations and contractor performance. Multivariate techniques were used to study the intrinsic link between clients’ selection preferences, i.e. project‐specific criteria (PSC) and their respective levels of importance assigned (LIA), during tender evaluation for modelling contractor classification models in a data set of 68 case studies of UK construction projects. The logistic regression (LR) and multivariate discriminant analysis (MDA) were used. Results revealed that both techniques produced a good prediction on contractor performance and indicated that suitability of the equipment, past performance in cost and time on similar projects, contractor relationship with local authority, and contractor reputation/image are the most predominant PSC in the LR and MDA models among the 34 PSC. Suggests contractor classification models using multivariate techniques could be developed further.

Details

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

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 March 2006

D R Ogunsemi and I O Aje

Construction projects in Nigeria are generally characterized by cost and time overrun, substandard work, disputes and abandonment; emanating from several factors of which the…

814

Abstract

Construction projects in Nigeria are generally characterized by cost and time overrun, substandard work, disputes and abandonment; emanating from several factors of which the wrong choice of contractors is a key factor. This study evaluated the criteria adopted by clients and consultants in contractors’ selection in Nigeria. Data were collected with the aid of questionnaire administered on clients and consultants within the Nigerian construction industry. Also prequalification/bid evaluation scores for eighty contractors were collected based on the criteria used in assessing them. The data collected were analysed with the aid of mean score and regression analysis. The result showed that past performance; contractors’ experience; workmanship quality; tender sum; and plant and equipment were the most important criteria for contractors’ prequalification/bid evaluation in Nigeria. A contractors’ selection model was eventually derived based on some of the identified factors. The goodness of fit of the model as defined by the value of r2 was found to be 99%. This therefore implies that only 1% is explained by other independent variables not included in the regression equation; hence the suitability of the model for contractors’ selection in Nigeria.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, vol. 11 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 28 August 2007

Christopher Robert and Wan Yan

The study of humor has a long tradition in philosophy, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and communications. Evidence from these fields suggests that humor can have effects on…

Abstract

The study of humor has a long tradition in philosophy, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and communications. Evidence from these fields suggests that humor can have effects on creativity, cohesiveness, and performance, but organizational scholars have paid it relatively little attention. We hope to “jump-start” such a research program. To do this, we first outline the theoretical rationale underlying the production and appreciation of humor, namely, its motivational, cognitive, and emotional mechanisms. Next, we review the literature linking humor to creativity, cohesiveness, and other performance-relevant outcomes. In particular, we note how this literature is theoretically well-grounded, but that the empirical findings are largely correlational and/or based on qualitative research designs. Finally, we go beyond the current humor literature by developing specific predictions about how culture might interact with humor in organizational contexts. Throughout the paper, we discuss possible research directions and methodological issues relevant to the study of humor in organizations.

Details

Research in Personnel and Human Resources Management
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-0-7623-1432-4

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 5 June 2007

G.C. Holt, M. Henchion, C. Reynolds, B. Baviera, J. Calabrese, L. Contini, C. Cowan, T. Dowgielwicz, C. Luscher, A. Maraglino, R. Prugger and R. Tononi

This paper sets out to provide a consensus position on the potential for the inclusion of small businesses in electronic platforms in the food industry.

1297

Abstract

Purpose

This paper sets out to provide a consensus position on the potential for the inclusion of small businesses in electronic platforms in the food industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The consensus was derived through a Delphi‐type series of questions in an open forum of academics and industrialists across Europe.

Findings

The consensus reached was of the proven benefits of electronic platforms for small businesses and the need for further research to assess how small businesses can incorporate electronic traceability and supply chain management systems into their existing operations.

Practical implications

Electronic platforms are spreading rapidly in the food industry. However, there is some concern that small businesses are not aware of the potential for electronic supply chains such as the potential that electronic traceability offers smaller networks to supply highly demanded food quality attributes such as organic production and regional foods.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the highly topical issue of food origin with a new approach to the supply technologies behind the product.

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 13 July 2010

Gary Holt

The “problem” of selecting a contractor has attracted significant academic research endeavour over the last two decades. The principal aim here is to examine that research via…

2862

Abstract

Purpose

The “problem” of selecting a contractor has attracted significant academic research endeavour over the last two decades. The principal aim here is to examine that research via published academic outputs for the period circa 1990‐2009.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of published contractor selection (CSn) research is critically appraised. Aspects highlighted include: stated aims and research justification; methodological approaches employed; research tools used; and products of CSn research.

Findings

Main research foci are observed as: modelling the CSn process; studying selection criteria; and “interrogation” of existing CSn systems. Foci justifiers are linked mainly to the “importance” and “difficulties” of CSn decision making. Deterministic modelling of CSn is the favoured methodological approach, followed by documentary synthesis then questionnaire surveys. Preferred research tools are found to be system interrogation, rank order analysis and Likert scale/importance indices, with hypothesis testing and “other” methods used less so. Almost two‐thirds of research products are CSn models, with derived or proffered processes, and knowledge relating to CSn criteria, between them representing approximately the remaining third of output.

Research limitations/implications

It is suggested that many of the CSn models exhibit as much complexity as the original “problem” they sought to resolve, while the reliability and longevity of suggested “cocktails” of CSn criteria (in practice), might be questioned. A call for future research products to more closely consider end‐user impact and potential for “take‐up” by industry is made. An empirical follow‐on study to assess (inter alia) practitioner use and “value” of CSn research is proposed.

Practical implications

The paper signals a possible need for greater industrial engagement in the research domain.

Originality/value

The findings are novel to this paper.

Details

Construction Innovation, vol. 10 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 December 2003

Ekambaram Palaneeswaran, Mohan Kumaraswamy and Thomas Ng

Procuring best value should be one of the key objectives in public sector construction projects. Best value depends upon sound “selection” strategies which ensure that the…

3677

Abstract

Procuring best value should be one of the key objectives in public sector construction projects. Best value depends upon sound “selection” strategies which ensure that the outlined project procurement objectives, including client/user demands are met. Examples of “best value” procurement are presented to demonstrate their usefulness and acceptance in principle. Further conceptualizations of various aspects of best value and the “dominance vectors” influencing the ultimate value definitions are developed, in accordance with basic public sector procurement principles. Presents a structured best value based contractor selection framework to optimize realizable value in public sector construction projects.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 10 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Article
Publication date: 1 January 1981

John Gilbert and Nancy Fjällbrant

In the finding and using of research results, the enquirer is always well advised to have an overview of the audience for and intention of, a document before becoming immersed in…

73

Abstract

In the finding and using of research results, the enquirer is always well advised to have an overview of the audience for and intention of, a document before becoming immersed in as contents. This for “Making Library Research Results Pay”. We have a varied audience in mind. Firstly, we are concerned to meet the needs of the person beginning research work, secondly, to help those involved in development and application work, and thirdly, to assist those professionally involved in the dissemination of research results.

Details

Library Management, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0143-5124

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 16 June 2017

Philip Stoker, Arlie Adkins and Reid Ewing

Pedestrian injuries and deaths should be viewed as a critical public health issue. The purpose of this chapter is to show how incorporating safety from traffic into broader…

Abstract

Pedestrian injuries and deaths should be viewed as a critical public health issue. The purpose of this chapter is to show how incorporating safety from traffic into broader efforts to increase walking and physical activity has the potential to have a significant health impact. In this chapter we provide an overview of pedestrian safety considerations having to do with population health and the built environment. The chapter is organised around a conceptual framework that highlights the multiple pathways through which safe walking environments can contribute to improved population health. We review the existing literature on pedestrian safety and public health. Pedestrian safety will remain a vexing challenge for public health and transportation professionals in the coming decades. But addressing this problem on multiple fronts and across multiple sectors is necessary to reduce injuries and fatalities and to unleash the full potential of walking to improve population health through increased physical activity. This chapter uniquely contributes a conceptual framework for understanding the relationship between the walking environment and public health.

Details

Walking
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78714-628-0

Keywords

Access Restricted. View access options
Book part
Publication date: 12 December 2024

Gunnar Vittersø, Mattia Andreola, Unni Kjærnes, Sabina Kuraj, Alexander Schjøll and Hanne Torjusen

Presently, we are witnessing an increased public attention directed towards the negative impacts on climate and environment from food production and consumption. Policies aimed at…

Abstract

Presently, we are witnessing an increased public attention directed towards the negative impacts on climate and environment from food production and consumption. Policies aimed at changing consumption patterns are focused on voluntary measures, such as information and labelling schemes for consumers to make conscious choices in the market. However, such measures have proven to be of highly variable importance and only a small proportion of consumers consciously choose so-called ethical products when buying food. By a comparison of Europeans' valuations of chicken meat, we discuss the dynamics between individual processes and the social and contextual conditions for consumption changes. This study is based on national representative surveys carried out in seven European countries, and concerns peoples' valuations of indirect quality factors related to origin, animal welfare and their relation to producer, brand and production methods (organic, breed). Overall, the engagement varies considerably across Europe as well as in the sociodemographic patterns. We ascribe this variation mainly to cultural, social and institutional differences. This chapter concludes that despite European harmonization of regulations and integrated markets, the consumer role is shaped quite differently depending on cultural and social structures as well as institutional configurations and trust. These contextual conditions need to be considered when formulating policies on food consumption and food system transitions.

Details

Consumers and Consumption in Comparison
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-315-1

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 11000
Per page
102050