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Article
Publication date: 1 May 2001

N. GIL, I.D. TOMMELEIN, R.L. KIRKENDALL and G. BALLARD

Specialty contractors have knowledge to contribute to the early design of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) products. In current practice, however, they are seldom…

472

Abstract

Specialty contractors have knowledge to contribute to the early design of architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) products. In current practice, however, they are seldom involved in early design, but evidence suggests that their early involvement is increasing. Lean construction theory advocates such involvement. The practice of involving suppliers in product development efforts and manufacturing has proven to be highly successful. The paper reports on empirical research that identified the contributions of specialty contractor (SO knowledge to early design, which led to gains in process efficiency and improvements in product quality. These contributions are categorized and illustrated by means of examples that stem from current practice or present potential opportunities for improvement. Reasons are given why SC knowledge is often ignored in design. Changes in AEC practices nevertheless suggest that organizations are creating conditions to increase interaction between designers and SCs. Such interactions will help AEC organizations to retain and share the knowledge of individuals as well as learn to develop new knowledge.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 8 no. 5/6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 18 July 2019

Eder Martinez, Carolina K. Reid and Iris D. Tommelein

The purpose of this paper is to explore opportunities and barriers to using lean construction to address issues related to the value, quality and scalability of affordable housing…

824

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore opportunities and barriers to using lean construction to address issues related to the value, quality and scalability of affordable housing production in Latin America.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a case study of a housing developer in Ecuador that used lean construction in the design and construction stages of an affordable housing project. The study describes how the developer addressed operational challenges derived from implementing a customization strategy and analyzes qualitative and quantitative data to assess the outcomes of lean initiatives.

Findings

The developer reduced cost and delivery time without sacrificing consumer choice. However, the economic and policy conditions worked against the benefits of lean construction, demonstrating the importance of the regulatory context in facilitating or inhibiting lean initiatives and construction innovation.

Research limitations/implications

This paper focuses on conventional means for new housing construction. Self-help and upgrading are not covered.

Practical implications

The operational challenges described in this study, as well as the innovative ways to deal with them, are beneficial for practitioners seeking to improve the quality and efficiency of affordable housing construction.

Social implications

This paper advances knowledge about how to increase value and quality delivery in the built environment which may benefit low-income families.

Originality/value

This study bridges construction innovation and housing policy, discussing the potential of lean construction within the policy and regulatory environment in which affordable housing takes place.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 19 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

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Article
Publication date: 1 June 2005

Wu Min and Low Sui Pheng

To develop just‐in‐time (JIT) purchasing threshold value (JPTV) models for ready mixed concrete (RMC) suppliers to decide whether or not to switch from an economic order quantity…

3442

Abstract

Purpose

To develop just‐in‐time (JIT) purchasing threshold value (JPTV) models for ready mixed concrete (RMC) suppliers to decide whether or not to switch from an economic order quantity (EOQ) approach to a JIT purchasing approach for the purchase of their raw materials, when a price discount is offered.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing economic order quantity (EOQ) with a price discount versus the JIT purchasing cost comparative models neglect some important cost components under the inventory management systems, for example, the out‐of‐stock costs and the impact of inventory policy on product quality and production flexibility. In addition, these models do not empirically study the capability of an inventory facility to hold the EOQ‐JIT cost indifference point's amount of inventory. These models suggest that the JIT purchasing approach is always preferred to the EOQ approach when the JIT purchasing approach can capitalize on physical plant space reduction. The JPTV models developed in this study overcome the two limitations of the existing EOQ and JIT purchasing cost comparative models.

Findings

By developing the JPTV models, this study suggests that the theoretical advantages of JIT purchasing may have been overstated.

Originality/value

The field studies conducted in the RMC industries in Chongqing, China and Singapore supported the propositions in this study. The JPTV models, if adopted, would help to enhance performance in the RMC industries in other cities as well.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 54 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

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Article
Publication date: 2 April 2019

Long Li, Zhongfu Li, Xiaodan Li and Guangdong Wu

The purpose of this paper is to provide comprehensive analysis and understanding of lean construction (LC) and to help researchers to find new gaps and research opportunities and…

1605

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide comprehensive analysis and understanding of lean construction (LC) and to help researchers to find new gaps and research opportunities and develop potential collaboration chances.

Design/methodology/approach

The bibliographic data were obtained in peer-reviewed journals. The science mapping analysis and social network analysis (SNA) were used to conduct the analysis and visualization. Science mapping was performed to identify the research topics, evolution and the relationships between these topics. Also, the most influential LC-related articles in each topic were identified based on the concept of H-classics. SNA was also used to explore the collaboration status of authors and to identify the core authors in the LC field.

Findings

The results showed that topics in the LC field are consistently and continuously changing, which also reveals the fact that the lean concept system has evolved over time to a certain extent. The topics that could form the knowledge base of the LC research field in the future are related to two thematic areas: supply chain management (SCM) and planning and scheduling. SCM focuses on developing a system where supplier and client work together in coordination to deliver materials, works, equipment and labor and other resources. Moreover, prefabrication is a new hot topic, while BIM is a well-developed and isolated topic in the last five years. This result indicates that more studies need to be conducted in the future, to promote the integration of BIM and lean practices in the construction phase, as well as to explore the value of BIM in the reduction or elimination of waste and lean project delivery. As for global collaborations, LC research has been widely pursued throughout the world. The USA and the UK play the most dominant role in the international collaboration network.

Research limitations/implications

Since the analysis of data takes some time, the specific results of this paper are limited to articles published in peer-reviewed journals, which leads to a certain degree of research lag.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights (such as major journals, institutions, key scholars, the evolution of topics, highly indexed articles and the new LC trends in the last five years) for researchers in the LC field.

Originality/value

This paper gives a general review of the above-mentioned literature, including the number of LC-related articles published in each year, as well as the major journals and main contributors to the field of LC.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 26 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 10 January 2025

Vu Hong Son Pham and Duy Hieu Pham

This study aims to optimize the construction site layout planning (CSLP) problem, with a focus on prefabricated projects. It proposes the use of the oMOAHA algorithm, an enhanced…

48

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to optimize the construction site layout planning (CSLP) problem, with a focus on prefabricated projects. It proposes the use of the oMOAHA algorithm, an enhanced version of the multi-objective artificial hummingbird algorithm (MOAHA), to address challenges related to search space exploration and local optimization in CSLP.

Design/methodology/approach

The study integrates three techniques – opposition-based learning (OBL), quasi-opposition and quasi-reflection – into the initialization phase of the MOAHA algorithm, creating the oMOAHA variant. This model is applied to all three types of CSLP problems – pre-determined location, grid system and continuous space – to evaluate its effectiveness. Six objective functions (three related to cost, two to safety and one to tower crane efficiency) and four site-related constraints are considered through three case studies taken from previous research and one real project involving prefabricated steel structures.

Findings

The oMOAHA algorithm demonstrates superior performance compared to previous models, consistently outperforming traditional approaches in CSLP optimization for prefabricated projects. In the real case study, the proposed model exceeded the actual project plan by 28–43%, indicating its potential to significantly improve both solution quality and project outcomes.

Originality/value

This study is the first to apply an optimization model to all three types of CSLP problems – pre-determined location, grid system and continuous space – within a unified framework. The integration of advanced techniques into the MOAHA algorithm and the model’s successful application in a real prefabricated project underscore its high applicability and effectiveness in modern construction management.

Details

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

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2005

Hong Zhang and C.M. Tam

This paper proposes introducing how to consider the break which cyclically happens and has nothing to do with resource availabilities in modeling of a construction process through…

2041

Abstract

Purpose

This paper proposes introducing how to consider the break which cyclically happens and has nothing to do with resource availabilities in modeling of a construction process through an activity‐based simulation.

Design/methodology/approach

In consideration of the variable break‐frequency and break‐duration for different activities, concepts of time‐cycle and time‐window are discussed. Then an algorithm to determine the execution of the activities facing the cyclical break is proposed, in which pre‐emption or non‐pre‐emption cases and overtime are taken into account together. This algorithm is incorporated into an activity‐based simulation so that the improved construction simulation is able to consider the cyclical break and model the construction process more reasonably. Computational analyses are presented to address the effectiveness of the improved activity‐based simulation.

Findings

The computational analyses demonstrate that the improved activity‐based simulation can consider the cyclical break in modeling a construction process, which cannot be achieved by the traditional simulation tools, especially when non‐pre‐emptive activities are concerned. It is also shown that the overtime use for the non‐pre‐emptive activities can lead to reduction of the project duration when the cyclical break is considered.

Originality/value

The proposed simulation‐based methodology is an alternative means to deal with the cyclical break that is destined for some activities and irrelevant to resource availabilities in modeling of a construction process.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 12 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Book part
Publication date: 5 October 2018

Mohammad Raoufi, Nima Gerami Seresht, Nasir Bedewi Siraj and Aminah Robinson Fayek

Several different simulation techniques, such as discrete event simulation (DES), system dynamics (SD) and agent-based modelling (ABM), have been used to model complex…

Abstract

Several different simulation techniques, such as discrete event simulation (DES), system dynamics (SD) and agent-based modelling (ABM), have been used to model complex construction systems such as construction processes and project management practices; however, these techniques do not take into account the subjective uncertainties that exist in many construction systems. Integrating fuzzy logic with simulation techniques enhances the capabilities of those simulation techniques, and the resultant fuzzy simulation models are then capable of handling subjective uncertainties in complex construction systems. The objectives of this chapter are to show how to integrate fuzzy logic and simulation techniques in construction modelling and to provide methodologies for the development of fuzzy simulation models in construction. In this chapter, an overview of simulation techniques that are used in construction is presented. Next, the advancements that have been made by integrating fuzzy logic and simulation techniques are introduced. Methodologies for developing fuzzy simulation models are then proposed. Finally, the process of selecting a suitable simulation technique for each particular aspect of construction modelling is discussed.

Details

Fuzzy Hybrid Computing in Construction Engineering and Management
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78743-868-2

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Article
Publication date: 27 April 2012

Sammy K.M. Wan and Mohan M. Kumaraswamy

Coordinating interdependencies between concurrent activities is a special challenge in managing increasingly complex building services projects. Effective coordination at the…

1279

Abstract

Purpose

Coordinating interdependencies between concurrent activities is a special challenge in managing increasingly complex building services projects. Effective coordination at the pre‐installation stage is key to minimising field conflicts between building services systems. This study aims to investigate the significant causes of production shortcomings traceable to the pre‐installation stage, and to what extent these in turn probably contribute to higher volumes of construction debris.

Design/methodology/approach

Following relevant previous research and preliminary studies of production shortcomings in the building services subsector in Hong Kong, a series of structured interviews with practitioners were formulated and analysed. The findings lead to deductive reasoning in developing suitable approaches for this subsector.

Findings

The study reveals that “poor coordination among different trades and processes”, and “frequent design changes and/or errors” are seen as two of the major causes of production shortcomings in the pre‐installation stage. This paper proposes and discusses improvement strategies based on conceptual models of an “intra‐inter dependent teamwork concept”, a “dynamic coordination buffer” and a “BS coordination facilitator” in order to reduce the identified critical causes.

Research limitations/implications

Although further research is needed, the findings in this paper can be a useful reference for other regions as the study methodology may be replicated.

Originality/value

In the search for solutions and improvements, a number of proven industrial management principles are incorporated in new conceptual models. These are expected to help alleviate the identified causes as critical design or related uncertainties are resolved through earlier coordination. This should in turn also reduce the volume of construction debris that can arise from current shortcomings in the pre‐installation stage of building services.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 19 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 28 April 2020

Hong Zhang and Lu Yu

Prefabricated construction concerns off-site production, multi-mode transportation and on-site installation of the prefabricated components, which are interdependent and…

1245

Abstract

Purpose

Prefabricated construction concerns off-site production, multi-mode transportation and on-site installation of the prefabricated components, which are interdependent and dynamically interactive, so coordination among the multiple stages along the prefabricated component supply chain (PCSC) is indispensable. This study aims to solve the dynamic transportation planning problem for the PCSC by addressing the interdependency, dynamic interaction and coordination among the multiple stages and different objectives of the stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The PCSC is analyzed and then the formulation for the dynamic transportation planning problem is developed based on the just-in-time (JIT) strategy. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is applied to solve the dynamic optimization problem.

Findings

The proposed dynamic transportation planning method for the PCSC regarding component supplier selection, transportation planning for means, routes and schedule, site layout planning and transportation plan adjustment is able to facilitate coordination among the multiple stages by addressing their interdependencies and dynamic interactions, as well as different economic objectives of the stakeholders such as suppliers or the contractor.

Originality/value

The study helps to achieve the advantages of prefabricated construction by prompting coordination among multiple stages of the PCSC by realizing different benefits of the stakeholders. In addition, it provides the stakeholders with the competitive bidding prices and the evaluation data for the bids quote. Meanwhile, it contributes to the domain knowledge of the PCSC management with regard to the viewpoint of coordination and integration of multiple stages rather than only one stage as well as the dynamic optimization model based on the JIT strategy and the PSO algorithm.

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Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Moslem Sheikhkhoshkar, Hind Bril El Haouzi, Alexis Aubry and Farook Hamzeh

In academics and industry, significant efforts have been made to lead planners and control teams in evaluating project performance and control. In this context, numerous control…

149

Abstract

Purpose

In academics and industry, significant efforts have been made to lead planners and control teams in evaluating project performance and control. In this context, numerous control metrics have been devised and put into practice, often with little emphasis on analyzing their underlying concepts. To cover this gap, this research aims to identify and analyze a holistic list of control metrics and their functionalities in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-step analytical approach was conducted to achieve the study’s objectives. First, a holistic list of control metrics and their functionalities in the construction industry was identified. Second, a quantitative analysis based on social network analysis (SNA) was implemented to discover the most important functionalities.

Findings

The results revealed that the most important control metrics' functionalities (CMF) could differ depending on the type of metrics (lagging and leading) and levels of control. However, in general, the most significant functionalities include managing project progress and performance, evaluating the look-ahead level’s performance, measuring the reliability and stability of workflow, measuring the make-ready process, constraint management and measuring the quality of construction flow.

Originality/value

This research will assist the project team in getting a comprehensive sensemaking of planning and control systems and their functionalities to plan and control different dynamic aspects of the project.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

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