Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the skills required for effective contract management of public–private partnership (PPP) projects over their contract duration. The growing body of literature indicating the lack of expertise in managing PPP-related projects within the public sector prompted this study. Design/methodology/approach The study, being an exploratory one, relied on a survey of 207 survey responses from a sample of PPP experts across the globe. The data from the survey are a rich mix of responses from public policy experts, construction professionals, project finance experts, lawyers and academic researchers in PPP. Findings It was found through exploratory factor analysis that project management, financial engineering, negotiations, risk management, forecasting, stakeholder management and technical skills were very critical for successful contract management of PPP projects. It was also found that regional characteristics influence skills prioritisation. Research limitations/implications The results of this study can be validated on larger data sets in specific countries and across regions, sectors and variety of PPP projects. Currently, the authors conducted a general survey using convenience sampling. Practical implications The results send a clear signal to practitioners that infrastructure regulation training programs cannot be generalised. Training should be tailored to reflect regional and country-specific characteristics. Originality/value The increasing failures and remunicipalisations of privately financed infrastructures is a cause for concern. Little attention has been given to the complicity of PPP regulatory institutions responsible for contract governance of such projects. Studies are increasingly pointing to the absence of critical PPP skills among institutions responsible for managing PPP contracts. This lack of capacity has resulted in poor oversight of private companies providing public services resulting in poor services, and financial recklessness which threaten the sustainability of service provision. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-11-07T08:26:06Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-01-2018-0011
Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop and assess interdisciplinary design checklists for mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems’ coordination, for building projects, in Saudi Arabia. Design/methodology/approach Relevant documents were acquired including: heating, ventilation and air conditioning schedules; ductwork and chilled water pipes layout; and technical queries, among others, from residential and school projects. Next, factors influencing MEP systems’ coordination were extracted, and verified to ensure clarity and validity. They were formulated into design checklist items for MEP systems. Finally, the checklist items were assessed through a questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale of importance. Respondents were comprised of mechanical, architectural, construction, electrical engineers, design coordinators and quality assurance managers. Data were then analyzed using the relative importance index. Findings This study presents 63 design checklist items. The items for each discipline were grouped under four categories, highlighting specific considerations. The findings revealed that careful consideration and communication between the mechanical, structural and architectural design teams was paramount in achieving proper mechanical coordination. Furthermore, it was found that constant communication between the electrical and the other design teams was necessary, to avoid electrical design conflicts. Finally, fire safety consideration was found to be most important in plumbing systems’ coordination. Originality/value The checklists for facilitating the MEP coordination process in building projects aim at minimizing waste in resources and enhancing the overall quality and productivity. In the absence of existing checklists, this paper provides a practical benefit to design professionals to alert them to devote more effort to the dominant category of checklist items. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-02T01:33:16Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-01-2018-0009
Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose It is widely recognized that large-scale public–private partnership (PPP) projects require an effective coordination mechanism among various stakeholders throughout the project life cycle. The purpose of this paper is to provide an insight into how this may be achieved through the leading small group (LSG), which is a distinctive informal Chinese institution for coordination among various public agencies. Design/methodology/approach An in-depth case study using secondary data and five in-depth interviews with two staff members from the developer and three government officials involved is used to probe into how the LSG functions during the various development phases of the Yangzhou Teda Waste-to-Energy project. Findings The main finding is that, conditional on its capacity, the LSG coordinated various public agencies to promote fast project implementation and ensure its smooth operation by making high-level decisions, facilitating quick permits and approvals, and mitigating the risks. However, formalization and participation from other stakeholders are needed to ensure good governance. Research limitations/implications Because it is an exploratory case study, the findings cannot be readily generalized. Further research can be done to compare the performance of LSGs in different Chinese cities and PPP projects. Practical implications It is supposed that this paper can provide implications of designing effective coordination mechanisms for managing large-scale PPP projects. Originality/value This paper provides an account of the LSG as a distinctive Chinese coordination mechanism that has been rarely studied. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-09-19T12:44:50Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-12-2017-0132
Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to deal with the maximum interest rate guarantees (MIRGs), and develop a methodology for setting the optimal value of the interest rate cap, namely the maximum interest rate above which the private investor will obtain reimbursement from the government, which balances the interests of the parties involved in the project. Design/methodology/approach The mechanism underlying the MIRG is modeled through real options. Monte Carlo simulation is employed as the option-pricing method. The resulting real option-based model is applied to the case of the “Camionale di Bari” toll road (Southern Italy). Findings The application provides some insights for the policy maker called to define the proper forms of guarantees. Furthermore, the results support the negotiation process, allowing the different actors to structure the guarantee in a way that satisfies all the parties and fairly allocates risks between them according to different operational and financial conditions. Originality/value The novelty of the contribution is triple. First, the authors advance the state of the art on government supports by focusing on the interest rate guarantee. Second, the authors enrich the existing studies on MIRG by proposing a quantitative model to set the guarantee in compliance with the public–private win-win principle. The developed real option-based model supports the decision maker in finding the optimal value of the interest rate cap, which is able to satisfy the interests of the parties involved in the project. Third, the authors consider not only the private sponsor and the government, as traditionally made by the models developed for other guarantees, but also the lender. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-09-19T01:29:02Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-01-2018-0012
Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to establish a conceptual framework to assist decision makers in identifying an appropriate decision-supporting method (DSM) to evaluate public-private partnership (PPP) contract types in a disciplined and systematic manner. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review was conducted to compare and analyse DSMs in construction procurement processes, and explore the benefits and limitations of using DSMs. A conceptual framework is then developed to accommodate client characteristics when selecting DSM in a PPP context. An example was obtained to illustrate the implementation of the proposed framework. Findings DSMs employed in the procurement method selection are identified by using a systemic literature review. The benefits and limitations of each DSM are established and comparisons of DSMs are provided to fit the client characteristics and a conceptual framework is developed to assist decision makers in choosing DSM for contract selection. Originality/value This paper demonstrates a link between DSMs and PPP contracts which adds value at the stage of PPP contract evaluation. Also, the proposed framework sheds some light on an important aspect of the public sector to consider the improvement of current policies (PPP framework/guideline). Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-09-13T12:35:01Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-01-2018-0018
First page: 434 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a taxonomy of transportation waste in construction production processes based on lean construction (LC) principles. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology used is case study and the main stages for the identification of the transportation waste in two construction projects were: mapping physical flows; measurement of transportation time; and monitoring of transportation waste events; assessment of the taxonomy. Findings The main contribution of this paper is the proposition of a taxonomy of transportation waste in construction production processes through the understanding of the transportation waste causes and consequences. Research limitations/implications Although the literature reviewed addresses sources from different parts of the world, the case studies performed are limited to one country, Brazil. However, the studies were carried out in two different construction sites separated by more than 3,000 km. Practical implications All data collected during the taxonomy application can be organized in order to develop an improvement plan. Moreover, if data collected is disseminated, there is the potential to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the construction sector. Social implications Although the paper does not explore in depth the impact of the study on society or policy, the theme of waste minimization is focused on cost reduction, and one way to do that is through the flow management for waste minimization. Originality/value The paper discusses the concept of transportation waste of production in construction based on LC philosophy, through the understanding of its causes and consequences. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-02T01:30:36Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-04-2018-0062
First page: 449 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The Low carbon (LC) agenda has captured interest across governments and research communities. But such focus is not addressed so far in the operation of municipal solid waste (MSW) infrastructure in India. The purpose of this paper is to draw focus on the promotion of low carbon infrastructure by improving the procurement process of the public–private partnership (PPP) approach. Design/methodology/approach The current study employed a case study methodology. This paper develops and validates a “five-fold framework,” comprising of selection, financial, operational, standards and targets measures, for integrating LC principles in the procurement of infrastructure projects. Findings The public sector fails to understand the importance of the need to incorporate climate change mitigation strategies due to poor procurement competencies. With respect to the operationalization of the framework, funding of viability gap in operations instead of construction, allowing renegotiation clauses to cater possible future LC technological improvements and incorporating emission reduction targets at the local and national levels were highlighted. Research limitations/implications LC principles presented in this paper are not exhaustive and are verified using a single Indian PPP case. Future research endeavor can focus on the relevancy and operationalization of these principles using a more elaborate set of indicators and extend the study to other sectors and countries. Originality/value This paper seeks to act as guidelines for governments on how to create and improve LC MSW PPP infrastructure projects to facilitate simultaneous achievement of both climate change mitigation and infrastructure delivery goals. The current study could add value to the current emphasis on LC transitions by policymakers, government agencies and regulators. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-09-07T01:11:05Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0087
First page: 461 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The adoption of sustainable procurement in construction clients’ organisation remains a difficult concept. Current research of sustainable procurement adoption studies fails to focus on a multi-stage adoption process. The purpose of this paper is to develop an organisational adoption model in a multi-stage process for the adoption of sustainable procurement in construction. Design/methodology/approach The paper developed an organisational adoption model. The model was tested against data obtained from survey administered to 193 respondents of central and local government institutions with a response rate of 63.7 per cent. Structural equation modelling using the partial least squares was employed to determine and confirm the factor structure of the model, and to measure the relationships between the model constructs. Findings An organisational adoption model is developed, tested and is robust to aid the adoption decision process of sustainable procurement within construction organisations. Research limitations/implications The study is limited in scope affecting generalisation of the results. Future study should expand the scope to include consultants, contractors and suppliers. Practical implications The adoption model will assist policy makers and top managers to understand the adoption decision process and prioritise on the technological, organisational and environmental factors that significantly affect sustainable adoption decision process within construction organisations. Originality/value This study appears to be among the first to empirically develop an organisational adoption model to aid the adoption of sustainable procurement in construction. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-16T11:15:31Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0108
First page: 477 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the risks associated with green retrofit projects in Sri Lanka in order to develop a risk responsive framework. Design/methodology/approach The survey method under the quantitative approach was selected as the research methodology as this research is required evaluating the risks associated with green retrofit projects. Both preliminary survey and the main questionnaire survey were conducted to collect the data. The survey data were evaluated and analysed by using mode value as a descriptive statistical analysis technique, and the risk rating matrix. Findings The overall results of risk assessment deliberated that there are ten “critical” risk factors, such as construction cost, inflation, energy saving uncertainty, warranty risk, delay in project completion, productivity and quality risks, requirement of permits and their approval, design changes, damage to structure or property and procurement delay influencing green retrofitting. Finally, a risk responsive framework was developed by proposing suitable strategies for mitigating the risks associated with green retrofitting. Practical implications The developed framework can be used as a basis to mitigate the risks associated with green retrofitting projects. An abundant upgrade of existing high-rise buildings into green can be reached. Originality/value A little attention paid on green retrofitting and the absence of proper risk management strategy for green retrofit projects in current practice have made this research a paramount need and a focal point. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-12T02:26:55Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0088
First page: 491 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose Aiming to simplify the extraction of embodied carbon data using a building information modeling (BIM) software, the purpose of this paper is to present a framework that integrates BIM and life cycle assessment (LCA), which are useful to the architecture, engineer and construction (AEC) industry. As a further purpose, this study also tests four different wall systems. Design/methodology/approach The study applies design science research and it presents a framework that integrates BIM and LCA. For analysis and validation, a case study features four different wall systems costs based on the Brazilian context. In the proposed framework, SimaPro8 accomplishes the LCA, while ArchiCAD 19 the modeling. Findings The first analysis covers embodied carbon and the second covers the total cost of each m² of wall. The proposed framework performs well, and it is effective in the Brazilian context. Concerning the walls, the wood frame system is the most sustainable option within this analysis and the most financially feasible option in Brazil. Originality/value The present study contributes to embodied carbon data analysis, ensuring that the best choice of elements and components is being used in the building project. This BIM–LCA integrated solution is valuable not only to the AEC industry and to professionals, but also to future researchers. This analysis is of great value to new ventures, since the society shows a great concern about reducing GHGs emissions. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-12T09:29:00Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0093
First page: 504 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the carbon intensive building elements or “carbon hotspots” of office buildings in order to maximise the carbon reduction potential during design stages. Design/methodology/approach Embodied carbon (EC) estimates of 28 office buildings in the UK were obtained and carbon hotspots of the sample (in accordance with the new rules of measurement (NRM) element classification) were identified using the 80:20 Pareto principle. Findings Frame, substructure, external walls, services and upper floors were identified as carbon hotspots of the selected sample. However, findings do not support the 80:20 ratio in this case but propose a ratio of 80:36. Stairs, internal walls and partitions, internal doors, wall finishes, ceiling finishes and fittings and furnishings were identified as carbon insignificant elements that have a lower EC reduction potential compared to the rest. Research limitations/implications The findings are applicable to office buildings in the UK but the methodology is adaptable to different types of buildings in other countries. Originality/value Findings unveil carbon intensive and carbon insignificant building elements of typical office buildings in the UK. This informs designers of the elements that could yield the highest potential EC savings via effective design choices. In addition, a logical design timeline is proposed for building elements based on their element hotspot category and design sequence to assist design decision making. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-08-13T11:16:38Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0095
First page: 515 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The successful continuation of green certification in the Sri Lankan hotel sector is vital for tourism industry as well as the economy of the country as it balances the economic interests with social and environmental responsibilities. However, it has become an issue in the Sri Lankan hospitality and tourism industry to sustain green certification due to many challenges. The prevailing situation highlights the need of exploring long-term strategies to mitigate challenges in sustaining green certification which has not been researched to date. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to propose strategies to mitigate challenges in sustaining green certification in the hotel sector in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach In total, 3 hotels were selected as cases of the study and 12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with engineers, maintenance managers and supervisors, who are responsible for sustaining green certificates at such hotels. The collected data were subjected to cross-case analysis to determine challenges in sustaining green certification. The findings were analysed with the support of the QSR.NVivo version 11.0 computer software. Findings Challenges were identified in detail under five main categories. They are technical, managerial, political and legal, environment and biological and social and cultural. Such challenges include design and construction defects, use of poor quality building and other materials, improper maintenance practices, incomplete and unclear construction documents, plans and specifications, resource limitations, insufficient budget allocations, government intervention, legal constraints, lack of user awareness and natural environmental conditions. Finally, strategies to mitigate such challenges are proposed based on empirical research findings. Research limitations/implications Only the Green Globe certified hotels in Sri Lanka were selected considering their need to renew certification annually. Further, interviewees were selected mainly focusing on the operational phase of a building. Hence, the findings were mostly limited to the perceptions and knowledge areas of selected interviewees. This can be highlighted as a primary limitation of the research, where a further study should be carried out on the perceptions of design stage professionals incorporating design stage challenges and strategies into the study. Originality/value The proposed strategies can be pursued by hoteliers to mitigate challenges in sustaining green certification, which will ultimately facilitate to balance economic interests with social and environmental responsibilities. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-17T01:52:51Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0102
First page: 528 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose In Sri Lanka, a limited number of buildings have been certified for incorporation of green features and the reasons are attributed to green building investors who continue to perceive that green buildings are expensive. Further, the green building investors fail to appreciate the subsequent benefits received by those buildings during the operational phase. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to compare the life cycle cost (LCC) of green certified industrial manufacturing buildings with a similar form of the conventional buildings to establish the economic sustainability of green buildings. Design/methodology/approach The study involved a comparative case study analysis of two green buildings and a similar natured conventional building. The data required to perform the LCC analysis were extracted through documentary analysis. Findings The comparative analysis shows that the construction cost of a green industrial manufacturing building is 37 per cent higher than that of a similar natured conventional building while operation, maintenance and the end life cost of green buildings result in 28, 22 and 11 per cent savings, respectively. This results in an overall cost saving of 21 per cent in green buildings. Originality/value The current study provides an assessment of the total LCC of green industrial manufacturing buildings. In Sri Lanka, green industrial manufacturing buildings offer LCC saving of 21 per cent over its lifetime compared to similar natured conventional buildings. Thus, comparative analyses would enable green investors to make informed decisions before commissioning their investment in green facilities and thereby promote sustainable construction in Sri Lanka. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-10-02T01:34:36Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0105
First page: 544 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss policy-relevant findings regarding strategies for mainstreaming gender in achieving sustainable post-disaster reconstruction (PDR). Design/methodology/approach An exploratory case study was used to explore the implementation of gender mainstreaming strategies and the link to sustainable PDR. The Bantul and Sleman regencies of Yogyakarta province provide a unique site for researching PDR as they are located in a region that is more strongly affected by earthquakes than nearly any other in Indonesia. Data were collected through interviews with 17 key stakeholders and 26 beneficiaries who were involved during and after the earthquake. To support the interview findings, surveys involving 50 policy makers and 150 beneficiaries were conducted. Content analysis and t-statistics were used in analyzing the data. Findings Gender mainstreaming strategies within sustainable reconstruction should incorporate strategies for protecting against gender vulnerabilities and for promoting gender capacities. Both are fundamental to the achievement of sustainable PDR. Originality/value The paper establishes comprehensive strategies for mainstreaming gender under three pillars (i.e. economic, social and environmental) of sustainable development. The findings benefit relevant policy makers by improving the policy performance of gender mainstreaming in the affected communities in enhancing sustainable PDR. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-06-22T08:08:11Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0086
First page: 557 Abstract: Built Environment Project and Asset Management, Ahead of Print. Purpose Cultural differences cause conflicts amongst construction project participants, deterring the success of projects. Understanding such different cultural manifestations could help the removal of the misunderstandings amongst sub-cultural groups and removal of formal irrationalities deterring the progress of construction projects. The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of project cultures in the public sector construction projects. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory case study was selected as the research strategy to achieve the research aim. Three public sector building construction projects were used as case studies. Nine semi-structured interviews and observation of two progress review meetings per case were used for data collection. Findings As per the research findings, contractors believed that construction project culture emerged and transferred through continuous interactions and socialisations with time. Consultants believed that culture was emerged focusing on clearly defined project objectives. In addition, all members assumed that project members at high authority levels were contributing more for the emergence and transfer of cultural aspects. Levels of culture and power existed within the public sector project culture as clients with the highest power, consultants the next and contractors with the least power. Public sector project culture was not leader centred. Shared behavioural norms were not much popular in project culture. Highly differentiated behavioural norms, demonstrating clear professional sub-cultures for the client, contractor and consultant, were available. Originality/value The research findings are helpful to construction project managers to enhance the level of motivation, productivity, commitment, continuous interactions and socialisations of project participants and to avoid any negative outcomes in behaviours. Citation: Built Environment Project and Asset Management PubDate: 2018-09-13T11:25:31Z DOI: 10.1108/BEPAM-10-2017-0107
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