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Article
Publication date: 7 November 2019

Taha Elhag, Smitha Eapen and Tabarak Ballal

Following the global financial crisis in 2008, the construction sector in UAE has been facing emergent criticisms for growing adversarial culture and rising prevalent claims and…

1071

Abstract

Purpose

Following the global financial crisis in 2008, the construction sector in UAE has been facing emergent criticisms for growing adversarial culture and rising prevalent claims and disputes between stakeholders. The complex, large size and fast track nature of construction projects in UAE, make project management very challenging under the commonly used traditional procurement routes. This paper aims to examine whether implementing collaborative procurement approaches can facilitate resolving the escalating number of claims and disputes in the UAE construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the nature of the study, a quantitative method was selected to realize the research objectives. The questionnaire was uploaded using an online survey facility and distributed through e-mails and professional networks. The questionnaire was piloted with experts to assess whether the questions are unambiguous, easy to respond and intelligible. The feedback received was mostly positive with few comments and recommendations. The pilot responses were incorporated and the questionnaire was modified before the final sending out. The questionnaire survey consisted of six main sections to fulfill the research objectives.

Findings

Around three-quarters of the experts believe that the relationship is adversarial, with a lack of trust, win-lose attitude, with dismissive and opportunistic behavior. The survey reveals that the top causes of claims and disputes comprise the following: variations because clients initiated change requests; contractors selection on low bid only rather than including quality and performance considerations; and unfair risk allocation where majority of risks are transferred to contractors. The findings also identify eight collaborative practices, which have crucial positive impacts such as early identification of problems, better communication and enhanced trust and teamwork.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the enhancement of the management of claims and disputes for construction projects, which encompasses the following: the key characteristics of collaborative arrangements to improve the adversarial construction culture comprise: mutual respect, openness, fairness and non-opportunistic behaviors; the foremost roles of collaborative procurement in reducing claims and disputes embrace: early identification and resolution of problems, enhanced trust and teamwork spirit, improved relationships and better quality communication; the major practical barriers of implementing collaborative approaches incorporate: lack of awareness of their benefits, primitive legal framework of partnering arrangements and lack of transparency in procurement processes.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 20 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

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Article
Publication date: 28 January 2025

Prachee Gupta and Taha Elhag

The construction industry is known for its complexity, poor performance and impact on the environment. This study investigates the applicability of lean techniques and processes…

18

Abstract

Purpose

The construction industry is known for its complexity, poor performance and impact on the environment. This study investigates the applicability of lean techniques and processes on improving sustainability in construction projects. A total of ten key lean construction (LC) tools are analyzed for impact on 15 sustainability categories and 78 subcategories. Results are summarized for usability across the three sustainability pillars.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) of articles published over the last 10 years (2014–2023) on lean and sustainable construction is conducted involving planning, identifying, screening, analyzing and reporting phases. Selected 41 articles are reviewed in detail. For reporting, the applicability of LC tools is critically analyzed and ranked according to impact on sustainability over two project stages.

Findings

Literature suggests that the impact of LC on economic waste reduction or social impact is likely to have an impact on environmental sustainability as well. Overall, the top LC tools for improving sustainability in construction include value stream mapping (VSM), just-in-time (JIT) and 5S. The applicability of the LC tools is more prevalent in the “construction phase” of construction projects than the “planning and design” phase.

Originality/value

This study analyzed ten lean tools through SLR and evaluated their impact on construction sustainability. By assessing the challenges and benefits associated with LC tools, the outcomes of the study support the adoption of LC by stakeholders. The paper also proposed a practical implementation strategy for LC tools to enhance sustainable construction.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

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Article
Publication date: 29 May 2009

Champika Liyanage, Taha Elhag, Tabarak Ballal and Qiuping Li

The purpose of this paper is to propose a process model for knowledge transfer in using theories relating knowledge communication and knowledge translation.

15199

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a process model for knowledge transfer in using theories relating knowledge communication and knowledge translation.

Design/methodology/approach

Most of what is put forward in this paper is based on a research project titled “Procurement for innovation and knowledge transfer (ProFIK)”. The project is funded by a UK government research council – The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). The discussions are mainly grounded on a thorough review of literature accomplished as part of the research project.

Findings

The process model developed in this paper has built upon the theory of knowledge transfer and the theory of communication. Knowledge transfer, per se, is not a mere transfer of knowledge. It involves different stages of knowledge transformation. Depending on the context of knowledge transfer, it can also be influenced by many factors; some positive and some negative. The developed model of knowledge transfer attempts to encapsulate all these issues in order to create a holistic framework.

Originality/value of paper

An attempt has been made in the paper to combine some of the significant theories or findings relating to knowledge transfer together, making the paper an original and valuable one.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 13 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

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Article
Publication date: 22 June 2010

Doubra Henry Ndoni and Taha M.S. Elhag

Recent work on public private partnerships (PPP)/private finance initiatives (PFI) and on the construction industry has emphasised the importance of knowledge transfer, learning…

865

Abstract

Purpose

Recent work on public private partnerships (PPP)/private finance initiatives (PFI) and on the construction industry has emphasised the importance of knowledge transfer, learning and innovation to improve the working processes and procedures of the industry. However, until recently all three have been researched separately. It is on this basis the research presents a theoretical proposition that “the integration of alliance principles through the formation of collaborative network; innovation, knowledge transfer and organisational learning can be enabled where there is coordination, cohesion, commitment, teamwork, clear vision, monitoring and governance structure for control, risks/reward sharing, efficient and effective communication strategy, learning and knowledge transfer strategy”.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of social capital, social networks and inter‐organisational network was applied based on a network perspective to explain and aid specific attributes of PPP and PFI as a collaborative network to achieve the research objective. A case study research methodology was adopted to investigate the theoretical proposition.

Findings

The findings of this research illustrates that collaborative relationship is a crucial factor in contractual arrangements to enable cost savings, time savings and project quality. In addition, the challenges clients and contractors encounter in integrating innovation are as a result of project scope, project duration, affordability and project procurement strategy. Furthermore, the difficulties of knowledge transfer and learning is as a result of the disconnection between the team that closes the PFI deal and the team that implements the contract.

Originality/value

The paper suggests a network perspective to improve work relationships that helps to achieve predetermined common goals and to enhance project performance.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 3 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

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Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 22 June 2010

Derek H.T. Walker

391

Abstract

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 3 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

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Book part
Publication date: 12 November 2018

Rojas-Trejos Carlos Alberto and González-Velasco Julián

Waste production is one of the most important problems that humankind faces. Human-based activities generate diverse waste types that have to be treated and disposed differently…

Abstract

Waste production is one of the most important problems that humankind faces. Human-based activities generate diverse waste types that have to be treated and disposed differently. This results in the need to build more facilities to manage the waste and to avoid further environmental damage. Colombia established a successful policy to close open dumps and to control pollution. Notwithstanding the advances that have been made in final disposal, it is necessary to extend the life of the final disposal sites and increase the closure of open landfills. Valle del Cauca is the third most populated Colombian province, and it is also considered the third province that generates more waste. This chapter addresses the problem of locating solid waste disposal centers in Valle del Cauca by applying the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) with fuzzy logic, a multicriteria method that compares opinions of a decision-making group. Additionally, each potential location area is characterized by considering industrial and environmental issues, societal dynamics, infrastructure and topography, costs, and taxes. After applying a variant of AHP, the decision-making group was able to find that Jamundi is the best location to open the disposal center. The method shows strong potential to identify and prioritize alternative locations for a diverse group of stakeholders. Most importantly, the methodology lets us structure better qualitative and quantitative data, as well as to link multiple levels to avoid choosing locations that will affect society, environment, and other stakeholders, without considering the trade-offs among diverse criteria considering benefits, opportunities, costs, and risks (BOCR).

Details

Supply Chain Management and Logistics in Latin America
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-804-4

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Article
Publication date: 1 March 1999

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…

1154

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.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 6 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 15 June 2021

Aydin Shishegaran, Behnam Karami, Elham Safari Danalou, Hesam Varaee and Timon Rabczuk

The resistance of steel plate shear walls (SPSW) under explosive loads is evaluated using nonlinear FE analysis and surrogate methods. This study uses the conventional weapons…

207

Abstract

Purpose

The resistance of steel plate shear walls (SPSW) under explosive loads is evaluated using nonlinear FE analysis and surrogate methods. This study uses the conventional weapons effect program (CONWEP) model for the explosive load and the Johnson-Cook model for the steel plate. Based on the Taguchi method, 25 samples out of 100 samples are selected for a parametric study where we predict the damaged zones and the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads. Then, this study uses a multiple linear regression (MLR), multiple Ln equation regression (MLnER), gene expression programming (GEP), adaptive network-based fuzzy inference (ANFIS) and an ensemble model to predict the maximum detection of SPSWs. Several statistical parameters and error terms are used to evaluate the accuracy of the different surrogate models. The results show that the cross-section in the y-direction and the plate thickness have the most significant effects on the maximum deflection of SPSWs. The results also show that the maximum deflection is related to the scaled distance, i.e. for a value of 0.383. The ensemble model performs better than all other models for predicting the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads.

Design/methodology/approach

The SPSW under explosive loads is evaluated using nonlinear FE analysis and surrogate methods. This study uses the CONWEP model for the explosive load and the Johnson-Cook model for the steel plate. Based on the Taguchi method, 25 samples out of 100 samples are selected for a parametric study where we predict the damaged zones and the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads. Then, this study uses a MLR, MLnER, GEP, ANFIS and an ensemble model to predict the maximum detection of SPSWs. Several statistical parameters and error terms are used to evaluate the accuracy of the different surrogate models. The results show that the cross-section in the y-direction and the plate thickness have the most significant effects on the maximum deflection of SPSWs. The results also show that the maximum deflection is related to the scaled distance, i.e. for a value of 0.383. The ensemble model performs better than all other models for predicting the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads.

Findings

The resistance of SPSW under explosive loads is evaluated using nonlinear FE analysis and surrogate methods. This study uses the CONWEP model for the explosive load and the Johnson-Cook model for the steel plate. Based on the Taguchi method, 25 samples out of 100 samples are selected for a parametric study where we predict the damaged zones and the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads. Then, this study uses a MLR, MLnER, GEP, ANFIS and an ensemble model to predict the maximum detection of SPSWs. Several statistical parameters and error terms are used to evaluate the accuracy of the different surrogate models. The results show that the cross-section in the y-direction and the plate thickness have the most significant effects on the maximum deflection of SPSWs. The results also show that the maximum deflection is related to the scaled distance, i.e. for a value of 0.383. The ensemble model performs better than all other models for predicting the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads.

Originality/value

The resistance of SPSW under explosive loads is evaluated using nonlinear FE analysis and surrogate methods. This study uses the CONWEP model for the explosive load and the Johnson-Cook model for the steel plate. Based on the Taguchi method, 25 samples out of 100 samples are selected for a parametric study where we predict the damaged zones and the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads. Then, this study uses a MLR, MLnER, GEP, ANFIS and an ensemble model to predict the maximum detection of SPSWs. Several statistical parameters and error terms are used to evaluate the accuracy of the different surrogate models. The results show that the cross-section in the y-direction and the plate thickness have the most significant effects on the maximum deflection of SPSWs. The results also show that the maximum deflection is related to the scaled distance, i.e. for a value of 0.383. The ensemble model performs better than all other models for predicting the maximum deflection of SPSWs under explosive loads.

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Article
Publication date: 18 May 2021

Kerim Koc and Asli Pelin Gurgun

Conflicts, claims and disputes are inherent in most construction projects. Acceptable degree of commonality in the interpretation of contract provisions is critical in effective…

1758

Abstract

Purpose

Conflicts, claims and disputes are inherent in most construction projects. Acceptable degree of commonality in the interpretation of contract provisions is critical in effective contract administration. This study aims to assess the effects of contract ambiguity factors on construction conflicts, highlighting the causes of divergent interpretations using fuzzy technique for order of preference by the similarity-to-ideal-solution (TOPSIS) method.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy TOPSIS framework with 27 ambiguity factors is constructed by conducting a comprehensive literature review, accompanied by a pilot study. Questionnaire survey is formed, and one-to-one interviews are arranged with 35 contract administration experts.

Findings

The findings indicate that (1) ambiguity due to excessive changes in the bill of quantity (BOQ) (including ambiguous provisions related to BOQ changes), (2) incomplete clauses that do not describe the scope of the intended work purely, (3) ambiguity due to excessive amendments in the scope of works (including ambiguous provisions related to scope changes), (4) ambiguous enforceability including excessive demands and (5) ambiguous goal and performance requirements are the top five ambiguity factors affecting construction conflicts.

Research limitations/implications

Presented framework is performed referring to ambiguity factors in all type of construction contracts in the general sense. However, the identified factors may vary depending on the project type, contract type, procurement method or use of standard contract forms (such as NEC, FIDIC).

Originality/value

The literature lacks the investigation of ambiguity factors in construction contracts, yet the assessment of the effects of contract ambiguity is essential to minimize conflicts.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 29 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

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Article
Publication date: 4 November 2014

Athakorn Kengpol, Sopida Tuammee and Markku Tuominen

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for route selection in multimodal transportation which can reduce cost, lead time, risk and CO2 emission in multimodal…

3538

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for route selection in multimodal transportation which can reduce cost, lead time, risk and CO2 emission in multimodal transportation systems.

Design/methodology/approach

This research proposes the development of a framework for route selection in multimodal transportation that includes a six-phase framework to select an optimal multimodal transportation route. The first phase is to collect the data of each route and select the origin and destination. The second phase is to calculate time and cost of each route by using a multimodal transport cost-model. In the third phase, the CO2 emissions are calculated based upon the 2006 guidelines of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The fourth phase proposes an integrated quantitative risk assessment, analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and data envelopment analysis methodology to evaluate the multimodal transportation risk. The fifth phase is to prioritize criteria by using the AHP which can be used in the objective function. The final phase is to calculate the optimal route by using the zero-one goal programming.

Findings

The aims of the model are to minimize transportation costs, transportation time, risk and CO2 emission.

Practical implications

The approach has been tested on a realistic multimodal transportation service, originating from Bangkok in Thailand to a destination at Da Nang port in Vietnam. The results have shown that the approach can provide guidance in choosing the lowest cost route in accordance with other criteria, and to minimize the CO2 emission effectively.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research lies in the development of a new decision support approach that is flexible and applicable to logistics service providers, in selecting multimodal transportation route under the multi-criteria in term of cost, time, risk and importantly the environmental impact.

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