Hamid Abdirad and Carrie S. Dossick
The purpose of this paper is to inquire into the reasons why Construction Operation Building Information Exchange (COBie) has not become mainstream across the construction…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to inquire into the reasons why Construction Operation Building Information Exchange (COBie) has not become mainstream across the construction industry despite the significant attempts to promote it.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper framed and compared the normative model of COBie to a descriptive model of COBie. The normative model was based on the assumptions and planned procedures outlined in the COBie documentation. The descriptive model was developed through a case study of COBie implementation, with ethnographic observations, interviews and artifact analysis as the data collection methods and thematic analysis as the data analysis method.
Findings
The comparative analysis of the normative and descriptive models showed that the underlying normative assumptions of COBie can be challenged in its implementation. In the case study, implementing COBie disrupted the conventional practice of few participating firms as the data requirements and the expected sequences and timelines of tasks were not aligned with the industry norms for exchanging data. Furthermore, the normative model of COBie could not account for the unanticipated variability in the internal routines of firms for submittal production.
Practical implications
COBie, as an instruction-based model, may not provide enough flexibility for some firms to adapt to its requirements such that COBie tasks become integrated with their existing workflows. COBie tasks may become additional efforts, and at times, conflict with the industry norms and firms’ routines, and therefore, disrupt the efficiency goals.
Originality/value
This paper provides empirical evidence to clarify why implementing COBie has not been as efficient for all industry players as expected.
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Hamid Abdirad and Carrie S. Dossick
The purpose of this paper is to clarify that while integrated project delivery (IPD) methods can be momenta for restructuring architectural practice, they do not predetermine…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to clarify that while integrated project delivery (IPD) methods can be momenta for restructuring architectural practice, they do not predetermine specific patterns of restructuration for the roles, responsibilities and services of architects.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper is based on a multiple case study design; two IPD projects were theoretically sampled and studied. The data collection methods included semi-structured interviews and observations. An inductive data analysis approach was applied to frame the phenomena, conduct cross-case comparisons and develop propositions.
Findings
While IPD implementations set expectations for new structures for practices, it is the project participants’ situated decisions that lead to the restructuration of some dimensions of architectural practice. The dimensions in this study included team formation, design leadership and collaboration and architectural services. IPD project participants locally changed and redefined conventional roles, responsibilities and project artifacts (e.g. drawings and models) that concerned design development and coordination.
Practical implications
IPD context, by itself, does not predetermine a fixed pattern of change in establishing designers’ roles, responsibilities and services because restructuration is highly negotiated amongst the IPD parties and can lead to different responses to this contractual setting. Contracts set expectations for collaborative behavior, but the fulfillment of these expectations is situated and emerging as project participants negotiate to develop practices.
Originality/value
While IPD research and guidelines aim to provide recipes for IPD implementation, this study contributes to the body of knowledge by clarifying that IPD is a context in which unprecedented ways of practice restructuration could emerge.
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Sahar Valipour Parkouhi, AbdolHamid Safaei Ghadikolaei, Hamidreza Fallah Lajimi and Negin Salimi
One of the achievements of the fourth industrial revolution is smart manufacturing, a manufacturing system based on Industry 4.0 technologies that will increase systems'…
Abstract
Purpose
One of the achievements of the fourth industrial revolution is smart manufacturing, a manufacturing system based on Industry 4.0 technologies that will increase systems' reliability, efficiency and productivity. Despite the many benefits, some barriers obstruct the implementation of this manufacturing system. This study aims to analyze these barriers.
Design/methodology/approach
One of the measures that must be taken is to identify and try to remove these barriers, which involves identifying the stakeholders and components of technology associated with each barrier. As such, the primary purpose of this paper is to present a systematic literature review in the field of smart manufacturing with a focus on barriers to implementation related to the stakeholders and components of technology.
Findings
This research conducted a systematic literature review in Scopus and Web of Science databases and considered the studies published until 2021 were examined. The central question of this paper is answered based on this literature review, in which 133 related studies and 15 barriers were identified.
Practical implications
The significant gap observed in the literature review is that no research has been conducted to determine the stakeholders and components of technology related to the barriers, making it a potentially worthwhile subject for future research. In addition, the results of this study may help managers to implement smart manufacturing.
Originality/value
This study provides two main originalities. The former is helpful information for managers to make effective decisions when they face smart manufacturing barriers. The latter is related to identifying critical research gaps through systematic literature review.
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Maryam Abdirad and Krishna Krishnan
The purposes of this study are to introduce the concept of service quality (SQ) in E-Supply chain management (E-SCM) and its impact on increasing customer satisfaction (CS) and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purposes of this study are to introduce the concept of service quality (SQ) in E-Supply chain management (E-SCM) and its impact on increasing customer satisfaction (CS) and provide insightful enhancements to the literature. In addition, the paper also examines the influence of SQ of E-SCM on CS in online shopping.
Design/methodology/approach
After a comprehensive literature review, four key factors for measuring the E-Supply chain (process control, interaction with supplier, management support and focus on customers), four key factors for measuring CS (informing customers, attention to customers’ needs, staff performance accuracy and easy access to services) and four factors for measuring the quality of identification services (assurance, accountability, tangibility and reliability) were selected. The proposed conceptual model was then presented. This model was validated by data collected through a survey of 150 respondents to identify CS, including that of customers of online websites in Iran. The sample data was analyzed using SPSS21, after which the interrelationships between the model and factors were examined based on the partial least square-structural. Model fit indices were then calculated for the data set. The proposed model was validated by using factor analysis and structural equation modeling techniques.
Findings
The results indicated that E-SCM has a direct impact on CS. The effect of SQ was also confirmed. A positive and significant relationship was identified between E-SCM and CS, E-SCM and SQ, as well as SQ and CS (P> 0.05).
Research limitations/implications
The first limitation was to convince respondents to cooperate with the researchers. The second one was the lack of research-related background due to the subject being relatively new.
Originality/value
This study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first empirical analysis on the CS assessment of SQ of E-Supply Chain in online shopping. This important link to online shopping has rarely been explored. It is expected that by filling this gap, this study will help in strengthening online shopping, which needs a change in the marketing area.
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Ahmed Nouh, Elsayed Elkasaby and Omnia Wageh
Innovative design and execution approaches are employed in infrastructure sectors and planning to enhance the integrated project delivery system, assure the sustainability of…
Abstract
Purpose
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.
Design/methodology/approach
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.
Findings
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.
Originality/value
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.
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This paper aims to investigate the relationships amongst supply chain management (SCM) implementation, Industry 4.0 technologies, organisational ambidexterity and SMEs’…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the relationships amongst supply chain management (SCM) implementation, Industry 4.0 technologies, organisational ambidexterity and SMEs’ performance in Australia. It further examines whether Industry 4.0 technologies and organisational ambidexterity have mediating effects on such relationships.
Design/methodology/approach
Research data were collected through a cross-sectional survey of a sample of 204 SMEs from different industries in Australia. The overall model fit and hypotheses were tested through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM).
Findings
The statistical results reveal that successful SCM implementation, Industry 4.0 technologies and organisational ambidexterity approach through exploiting existing competencies and exploring new opportunities improve SMEs' performance in Australia. In addition, Industry 4.0 technologies and organisational ambidexterity are found to mediate the relationship between SCM implementation and SMEs’ performance.
Originality/value
The coexisting impacts of SCM implementation, Industry 4.0 technologies and organisational ambidexterity on SMEs’ performance, and how Industry 4.0 technologies and organisational ambidexterity mediate and affect the relationship of SCM implementation and SMEs’ performance have not been addressed previously in Australia. This study, thus, addresses these research gaps, which are expected to be beneficial to managerial practices to support SMEs in their strategic planning and performance enhancement goals.
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Peter Dodzi Kwasi Agbaxode, Ehsan Saghatforoush, Sitsabo Dlamini and John Kwesi Korsah
The purpose of this study was to identify specific enablers intrinsic to integrated project delivery (IPD) that can be adapted into the conventional project delivery (CPD…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to identify specific enablers intrinsic to integrated project delivery (IPD) that can be adapted into the conventional project delivery (CPD) approach to enhance the quality of design documentation produced under the CPD within the Ghanaian construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for data collection. The sample size was 235 responses for questionnaires while 15 participants were interviewed. The survey instrument was piloted with industry professionals to ensure validity. IBM SPSS was used to analyze quantitative data by determining frequencies, percentages, correlation and regression, while content analysis was used on qualitative data with the aid of QSR Nvivo software.
Findings
Key findings include the need to adapt the early involvement of key participants for collaborative design input, tie individual success to overall project success with incentives and establish shared accountability for design errors and encourage open communication.
Practical implications
Adapting IPD enablers into the CPD approach would ensure higher-quality design documentation and more efficient project delivery. This has the potential to improve project outcomes, reduce errors, and foster better collaboration among stakeholders.
Originality/value
This study is the first of its kind to identify specific enablers inherent in IPD that can be adapted into the CPD approach to improve the quality of design documentation within the Ghanaian construction industry.
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Optimal application and commitment toward financial management practices enhance organization performance. This study aims to assess the influence of financial management…
Abstract
Purpose
Optimal application and commitment toward financial management practices enhance organization performance. This study aims to assess the influence of financial management practices on the organizational performance of small- and medium-scale enterprises.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 45 small-sized and 72 medium-sized firms. Data supported the hypothesized relationships. Construct reliability and validity were established through confirmatory factor analysis. The conceptual model and hypotheses were evaluated by using structural equation modeling.
Findings
The results indicate that working capital significantly influenced organizational performance. Capital budget management significantly influenced organizational performance. A non-significant influence of asset management on organizational performance was observed.
Research limitations/implications
The generalizability of the findings will be constrained due to the research’s SMEs focus and cross-sectional data.
Practical implications
The study’s findings will serve as valuable pointers for stakeholders and decision-makers of SMEs in developing well-articulated and proactive financial management systems to ensure competitiveness, sustainability, viability, and financial competencies.
Originality/value
The study adds to the corpus of literature by evidencing empirically that financial management practices significantly influenced SMEs’ performance.
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Sara Rankohi, Mario Bourgault and Ivanka Iordanova
Integrated project delivery (IPD) has attracted considerable attention in recent years, however only a few review studies captured the dynamic and evolving nature of this topic…
Abstract
Purpose
Integrated project delivery (IPD) has attracted considerable attention in recent years, however only a few review studies captured the dynamic and evolving nature of this topic. The purpose of this study is to review the most recent IPD publications, in order to shed light on future research.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a systematic review methodology, the study aims to synthesize the current IPD literature, and frame the latest research and development in this domain. A systematic review is conducted to identify the current state-of-the-art of IPD research and the latest research themes and trends in this domain. A bibliometric analysis is performed to explain characteristics of screened articles, and through a thematic analysis the latest themes and trends are recognized.
Findings
In this study, based on IPD characteristics (contractual-regulative, operational-cognitive and organizational-structural), research themes (legal, commercial, technological, procedural, cultural and structural), sub-themes and their associated trends are identified. The latest emerging trends are mostly related to the contractual characteristics of IPD, and are focused on the combination of IPD with new business models and developing contractual guidelines for promoting IPD applications in off-site and on-site construction projects.
Originality/value
This research contributes to the body of knowledge by synthesizing the state of the art of IPD in construction literature and exposing the latest research trends in this area. A theoretical framework of integration in an IPD context is developed, based on the literature. Finally, future areas of studies are discussed.
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Timothy O. Olawumi and Daniel W.M. Chan
The construction industry has been evolving in recent years through the adoption of smart tools such as building information modeling to reduce the complexity in the construction…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction industry has been evolving in recent years through the adoption of smart tools such as building information modeling to reduce the complexity in the construction process and optimize the project's goals. This paper aims to identify and assess the key drivers for the implementation of smart sustainable practices in the construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
Inferential and descriptive statistical techniques were employed in analyzing the data collected via an international empirical questionnaire survey deployed in soliciting the perceptions of 220 construction professionals across 21 countries. Factor analysis was used to categorize the identified key drivers into their underlying clusters for further discussion. Also, the data were analyzed based on the various groups and regions of the study's respondents.
Findings
The key drivers (KDs) are related to the technical competence of staff as well as knowledge and awareness level within the industry, issues related to organizational and project's strategy and policies, availability of financial resources and development of relevant standards and policies to aid its execution among others. A comparative analysis of the perceptions of the different respondents' groups was undertaken and discussed.
Practical implications
The analysis of the key drivers for the implementation of smart and sustainable practices in the construction industry is expected to aid the decision-making of the relevant stakeholders as well as serve as a consultation instrument for government agencies in their design of localized policies and guidelines to aid smart and sustainable urbanization. The findings revealed the gaps in the implementation of smart and sustainable practices in various climes and organization setups and provided useful and practical strategies for addressing the current hindrances during implementation.
Originality/value
The study has generated valuable insights into the significant drivers that can enhance the implementation of smart and sustainable practices across regions. It is evident that synergy among the relevant stakeholders in the built environment will help accelerate the implementation of smart sustainable practices in the construction industry. The study findings have provided profound contributions to theory and research as well as to industry practice.