SUNIL M. DISSANAYAKA and MOHAN M. KUMARASWAMY
Time and cost are usually critical to construction clients. Given the many contributory factors, improved quantitative models of time and cost may help clients to predict project…
Abstract
Time and cost are usually critical to construction clients. Given the many contributory factors, improved quantitative models of time and cost may help clients to predict project outcomes at the outset, and also at different stages of the project life span. These can also help to compare deviations in significant contributory factors, and to suggest corrective actions. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural networks (ANN) were applied in developing such quantitative models in a research project based in Hong Kong. A comparative study indicated that ANN had better prediction capabilities than MLR by itself. Significant factors identified through quantitative models developed, indicated that time over‐run levels were mainly governed by non‐procurement related factors (e.g. project characteristics and client/client representative characteristics), while cost over‐run levels were significantly influenced by both procurement and non‐procurement related factors (e.g. project characteristics, client/client representative characteristics and contractual payment modalities). A parallel approach yielded interesting comparisons of the variations of mean time and cost over‐runs, when comparing groups of projects using different procurement sub‐systems, from the Hong Kong sample.
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Olivia Ho, Usha Iyer-Raniga, Kamani Sylva, Subarna Sivapalan, Sunil Mananama Dissanayaka and Chinara Sadykova
The integration of circular economy (CE) into higher education programmes is a crucial step to facilitate a smooth transition towards circularity. Although existing studies…
Abstract
Purpose
The integration of circular economy (CE) into higher education programmes is a crucial step to facilitate a smooth transition towards circularity. Although existing studies highlight the lack of CE awareness as a primary barrier to achieving circularity, there is still limited research investigating the enhancement of CE understanding after completing CE-related training or courses. To address this gap, this study aims to examine how CE education transforms students’ mindsets to support the strategic application of CE principles and strategies in personal and professional activities.
Design/methodology/approach
An online survey was designed and distributed to students attending CE courses at five universities located in five countries. Ethics approval for this research project was obtained from University 3 as the lead of the research project. Out of a total of 138 students enrolled in these courses, 109 responses were collected.
Findings
The research findings demonstrate that CE education enhances students’ awareness of CE definitions, principles and strategies through developing their own descriptions of CE concepts and interpretation into personal and professional activities, showcasing practical circular applications.
Practical implications
This paper presents implications for programme coordinators, subject coordinators and lecturers/facilitators at universities/higher educational institutions to consider when designing a course or training workshop related to CE within a particular programme or discipline.
Originality/value
This study identifies invaluable insights of CE education to enhance students understanding and practical applications of circularity in their personal and professional activities. The research findings can be used for crafting and delivering CE courses in different universities. This study can be regarded as guidance to develop a CE curriculum for higher education nurturing a deep understanding of CE concepts while aligning with the industry demands for CE professionals.
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Zakia Tasmin Rahman, Ruhi Lal and Ravinder Rena
The New Development Bank (NDB) is assisting the development of India's financial system. India's financial needs are met by NDB. It can contribute to the BRIC countries' economic…
Abstract
The New Development Bank (NDB) is assisting the development of India's financial system. India's financial needs are met by NDB. It can contribute to the BRIC countries' economic and social development and helps in the sustainability of the country's growth and development. The study is focused on the role of NDB in India, the growth and development of NDB, and to explore the future prospects of NDB in India. The plans and strategies of NDB are studied thoroughly, and positive conclusions can be drawn on India and other member nations of NDB. The research study is qualitative, exploratory research. It is based on secondary data. Government reports, records, published research papers, websites, related documents, etc. are taken into consideration. Content analysis is done of the secondary data. The NDB strategies are designed in such a pattern that the member nations and emerging nations of the world can get the advantage of infrastructural development, sustainable growth, and development. Investment and employment generation can lead the nations. The research study has found out that NDB accelerates development in a flexible and effective way. Also, it was found out that various infrastructural developmental projects were undertaken. Initiatives like financial support for adopting various developmental technologies and strategies should be from medium- to long-term priority.