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Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.373  Citation Impact (citeScore): 1 Number of Followers: 9  Hybrid journal * Containing 10  Open Access article(s) in this issue *ISSN (Print) 2046-6099 - ISSN (Online) 2046-6102 Published by Emerald  [362 journals]
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- Enhancing the level of confidence in the safe fire evacuation operation
employing a combination of BIM and fuzzy TOPSIS method-
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Authors: Meysam Soltaninejad, Esmatullah Noorzai, Amir Faraji
Abstract: This research aims to provide optimization and route safety planning employing the fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) technique. This research combines the use of graphical, communication tools and simulated models based on building information modeling (BIM) technology and agent-based modeling (ABM) to identify a safe evacuation route. Adopting the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach, the proposed rescue plan can reduce potential hazards along the evacuation route by selecting a safe route for evacuating residents and entering firefighters to the scene of the incident. The results show that the use of simulated models along with MCDM methods in the selection of safe routes improves the performance of safe evacuation operations for both relief groups and residents. The introduced model can improve the performance management of different groups at the time of the incident and reduce casualties and property losses using the information received from sensors at the scene. Moreover, the proposed rescue plan prevents group and individual reactivation at the time of the incident. Despite many advances in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry, the number of victims of fire incidents in buildings is increasing compared to other natural disasters. Improving decision management based on effective parameters at the time of incident reduces casualties of residents and rescue workers.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-24
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0258
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Establishing the limitations of sustainable construction in developing
countries: a systematic literature review using PRISMA-
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Authors: Olabode Emmanuel Ogunmakinde, Temitope Egbelakin, Willy Sher, Temitope Omotayo, Mercy Ogunnusi
Abstract: Establishing a more sustainable built environment is an increasing global concern for the construction industry. Despite the intrinsic and extrinsic obstacles the stakeholders face, huge efforts are required to transition to a smooth, sustainable construction (SC) practice. This study identifies and discusses cogent obstacles to SC in developing nations. The Preferred Reporting Item for systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) approach was employed to establish research work in SC for developing countries. The databases used were Scopus and Web of Science. Meta-analysis of keywords was analysed thematically. The initial broad search returned 8,420 publications which were filtered and reviewed in-depth to fit the aim of the study, produced only 21 relevant publications from the years 2000–2021. The four identified themes of obstacles to SC in developing countries are as follows: construction professional training and education, clients' attitudes and awareness, construction industries' culture and capacity and governments' regulation, policies and economy. The key barriers identified from the meta-analysis include inadequate training and education amongst construction professionals, poor execution of sustainability ethics, poor populace attitude towards sustainability, poor awareness and understanding, dearth of precise data and integrated study and inappropriate priorities about sustainability. The originality in this study are themes drawn from millennium development goals (MDGs) and sustainable development goals (SDGs) publications related to SC. Consequently, the final framework presented a holistic approach to surmounting the established limitations and aided recommendations for future studies. Thus, setting a background for developing strategies to overcome the limitations and further attain sustainable development (SD).
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-23
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0223
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Socio-economic disparities in greenspace quality: insights from the
city of Melbourne-
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Authors: Ali Ghanem, Ruwini Edirisinghe
Abstract: This paper takes a prudent approach to assessing the quality of greenspace in low- and high socio-economic status (SES) settings. Socio-economic data from deprivation indexes were used to systematically define low- and high-SES suburbs. A Geographical Information System (GIS) observation of greenspaces was used to score spaces according to a scoring criterion contingent on six quality facets. Statistics were then synthesised, producing a Cohen effect score highlighting disparities in each criterion between the two SES groups. As the phenomena of locational prejudice and meritocratic inequality continue to garner global attention, this paper extrapolates this to a world-renown metropolis, Melbourne. This paper endeavours to provide invaluable insights into the environmental injustice paradigm within greenspace and its respective quality. Conclusive results affirmed a concerning disparity in the quality of greenspace between Melbourne's low- and high-SES settings. Cohen's effect size found that on average, there was a “medium” distinction between the spaces, whilst an individual focus on the quality facets concluded diverse findings. The core of study adopted a meticulous virtual assessment to critique the quality of selected greenspaces opposed to an in-person-real world assessment which could garner more nuanced findings. Existing literature on Melbourne has prioritised distribution, proximity and accessibility domains when assessing inequitable greenspace and, consequently, has catalysed a research gap in greenspace quality. This is also one of the first papers to provide insight into the “Plan Melbourne” policy regarding urban regeneration and ameliorating public open spaces.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0247
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Towards a trajectory for sustainable policies and market strategies
governing building lifecycle energy performance-
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Authors: Benonia Tinarwo, Farzad Rahimian, Dana Abi Ghanem
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to discuss a selection of policy strategies, regional initiatives and market approaches to uncover the realities of twenty-first-century building energy performance. A position that market-based approaches, human influence and policy interventions are part of an ecosystem of building energy performance is presented. An exploratory search of secondary sources spanning the last three decades was conducted. Both peer-reviewed and grey literature were included to capture a broader understanding of the discourse in literature. Research questions guided the literature search, and a data extraction tool was designed to categorise the literature. The primary limitation of this study is that only a few applications could be discussed in a condensed format. Several challenges about the current status quo of building energy performance were identified and summarised as follows. (1) Inconsistencies in measurement and verification protocols, (2) Impacts of market approaches, (3) National policy priorities that are at variance with regional targets and (4) Ambiguous reporting on environmental impacts of energy efficiency (EE) technologies. The practical implications of the findings in this paper for practice and research are that as part of the building energy performance ecosystem, national responses through government interventions must become adaptive to keep up with the fast-paced energy sector and social trends. Simultaneously, before market-based approaches overcome the messiness of socio-economic dynamics, institutional conditions and cultural nuances, they ought to transparently address environmental impacts and the infringement of several SDGs before they can become viable solutions to building energy performance. This paper presents building energy performance as an ecosystem comprising human influence, market-based approaches and policy interventions which form interdependent parts of the whole. However, evidence in the literature shows that these aspects are usually investigated separately. By presenting them as an ecosystem, this paper contributes to the discourse by advocating the need to re-align building energy performance to socio-economic-political dynamics and contextually viable solutions.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-16
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-01-2023-0024
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Including local actors' perspective in neighborhood sustainability
assessment: evidence from Dubai's sustainable city-
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Authors: Nermin Dessouky, Stephen Wheeler, Ashraf M. Salama
Abstract: Existing Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) tools such as “Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design - Neighborhood Development” (LEED-ND) and “Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method” (BREEAM Communities) are widely criticized for a lack of transparency in the selection of indicators and an unbalanced focus on specific sustainability dimensions. This paper asks how the expectations and use values of the professionals and residents involved in developing, designing, managing and living in a sustainable neighborhood can shape sustainability indicators that affect progress towards project goals. Taking as its focus The Sustainable City (TSC), a neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the paper develops data from in-depth, go-along interviews with 46 different actors. Findings indicate that when given the opportunity to express their opinion, many actors will prioritize metrics different than the metrics dictated to the by sustainability experts and international rating systems. The findings suggest that NSA tools should place greater emphasis on local factors, public engagement and operational concerns. The paper provides a method that any community can replicate to better understand the different use values of local actors and establish its own NSA tool. This can help experts learn how design, management and operational decisions interact to impact different dimensions of performance. This paper recognizes sustainable neighborhoods as spaces with multiple identities. Hence, the indicators used to evaluate these neighborhoods need to be based on the expectations and use values of different actors. This paper proposes using the priorities of different local actors to reshape how these neighborhoods are assessed.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2023-0052
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Measuring agricultural loss and the impact of differing dwelling types: a
case study in Melbourne-
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Authors: Jean-Pierre El Wazan, Ruwini Edirisinghe
Abstract: Agricultural land loss is a severe issue that Australia faces, along with many other countries. Myriad research studies have discussed the reasons for such land loss, including urban sprawl as the main factor and factor's repercussions. However, there is a knowledge gap in understanding the impact of dwelling type on farming land reduction. Also, there is an application gap, particularly in the local context. The purpose of this study is to discover the effect of differing dwelling types (compact and non-compact) in metropolitan areas with a growing population (such as Craigieburn) toward potentially noticeable agricultural land loss. This paper aims to fill these research and practice gaps through a case study using a mixed methods approach. A quantitative analysis was conducted of housing types, the types' growth and agricultural land area taken up by those different housing types over 18 years. Thematic analysis of policies, strategies, schemes and codes relevant to the case study enabled a better understanding of practice gaps. The study revealed a significant loss of agricultural land. Separate housing was found to be the main culprit due to the number of houses and the area the houses require, thus exhibiting the lack of practical guidelines to prevent the houses' overdevelopment. The findings enabled the identification of opportunities for better practice through government intervention and potential industry alterations. Previous literature has primarily explored the issues associated with urban sprawl and the sprawl's unsustainability. This research paper offers a more targeted insight into one of the key factors leading to urban sprawl: the types of dwellings being constructed.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0253
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Construction practice knowledge for complementing classroom teaching
during site visits-
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Authors: Johnson Olayiwola, Anthony Olukayode Yusuf, Abiola Abosede Akanmu, Homero Murzi, Xinghua Gao, Kereshmeh Afsari
Abstract: As video-based interventions are continuously utilized as alternatives to physical site visits, directing students' attention to specific learning contents within videos could increase their comprehension and stimulate their interest. Students' knowledge of construction practice can be reinforced, misconceptions and improper inferences can be reduced by calling out significant learning concepts. However, few studies have formalized practice concepts that could be beneficial in preparing students for the workplace. This paper presents an investigation of construction practice concepts, based on site visits that would be beneficial in complimenting classroom teaching to prepare students for the realities of practice. A mixed methods research approach was employed combining qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis. An online questionnaire, semi-structured interviews and a focus group were conducted with industry practitioners and instructors to identify the topics and practice concepts significant for supporting classroom teaching with site visits. The findings suggest that the most relevant topics typically supported with site visits are preconstruction management, excavation and foundation work, construction equipment, construction means and methods, project management, road construction, sustainability, building systems, structures, construction technology, building construction, capstone, site logistics and safety. Practice concepts were identified for each of these topics. The study will guide researchers in the design of video-based pedagogical tools to be used as an effective complement of or alternative to site visit experiences. The findings will support instructors on how to structure their teaching practices to prepare students for some of the complexities of the workplace. This study adds value to the existing literature by providing insights into industry perception of practice concepts for complementing classroom teaching.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-05-02
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0144
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A scoping review of indoor air quality assessment in refurbished buildings
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Authors: Fatemeh Goodarzi, Kavitha Palaniappan, Manikam Pillay, Mahmoud Ershadi
Abstract: Exposure to poor indoor air in refurbished buildings is a matter of health concern due to the growing concentrations of various contaminants as a result of building airtightness without amendment of ventilation, or the use of building materials such as glue, paint, thinner and varnishes. Recent studies have been conducted to measure indoor air pollutants and assess the health risks affecting the quality of life, productivity and well-being of human beings. However, limited review studies have been recently conducted to provide an overview of the state of knowledge. This study aims to conduct a scoping review of indoor air quality (IAQ) in the context of refurbished or energy-retrofitted buildings. A systematic screening process based on the PRISMA protocol was followed to extract relevant articles. Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and PubMed were searched using customised search formulas. Among 276 potentially relevant records, 38 studies were included in the final review covering a period from 2015 to 2022. Researchers mapped out the measured compounds in the selected studies and found that carbon dioxide (CO2) (11%) and total volatile organic compounds (11%) were among the most commonly measured contaminants. Two trends of research were found including (1) the impact of ventilative properties on IAQ and (2) the impact of introducing building materials on IAQ. The contribution of this study lies in summarising evidence on IAQ measurements in refurbished buildings, discussing recent advancements, revealing significant gaps and limitations, identifying the trends of research and drawing conclusions regarding future research directions on the topic.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-04-20
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2022-0264
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Robotics and automation for sustainable construction: microscoping the
barriers to implementation-
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Authors: Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke, John Aliu, Patricia Fadamiro, Paramjit Singh Jamir Singh, Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan, Mahathir Yahaya
Abstract: This study presents the results of an assessment of the barriers that can hinder the deployment of robotics and automation systems in developing countries through the lens of the Nigerian construction industry. A scoping literature review was conducted through which barriers to the adoption of robotics and automation systems were identified, which helped in the formulation of a questionnaire survey. Data were obtained from construction professionals including architects, builders, engineers and quantity surveyors. Retrieved data were analyzed using percentages, frequencies, mean item scores and exploratory factor analysis. Based on the mean scores, the top five barriers were the fragmented nature of the construction process, resistance by workers and unions, hesitation to adopt innovation, lack of capacity and expertise and lack of support from top-level managers. Through factor analysis, the barriers identified were categorized into four principal clusters namely, industry, human, economic and technical-related barriers. This study provided a good theoretical and empirical foundation that can be useful to construction industry stakeholders, decision-makers, policymakers and the government in mapping out strategies to promote the incorporation and deployment of automation and robotics into the construction industry to attain the safety benefits they offer. By identifying and evaluating the challenges that hinder the implementation of robotics and automation systems in the Nigerian construction industry, this study makes a significant contribution to knowledge in an area where limited studies exist.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-04-14
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2022-0275
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- An innovative methodology for the assessment of the social discount
rate: an application to the European states for ensuring the goals of
equitable growth-
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Authors: Francesco Tajani, Debora Anelli, Felicia Di Liddo, Pierluigi Morano
Abstract: The European Commission has established the reference value of the social discount rate (SDR) to be used in the cost-benefit analysis according to the subdivision of the states relating to the beneficiaries of the Cohesion Fund. This criterion does not allow to adequately consider the economic, social and environmental conditions of each European states for ensuring an equitable and inclusive growth. The aimof the work is to provide an innovative methodology for assessing the “adjusted” SDR according to the socioeconomic and environmental conditions that differently affect the sustainable development of each European state. Through the implementation of a methodological approach that consists of ordered and sequential phases and the synergic adoption of the Multi-Criteria Techniques with the Data Envelopment Analysis, a corrective coefficient of the SDR established by the European Commission is determined. The results obtained for the 27 European states highlight how the different conditions of each of them could affect the correct choice of the SDR to be used in the Cost-Benefit Analysis. The proposed research represents a useful reference for identifying national reference SDR values for each European state, consistent with its specificities and with the goals of inclusive growth of the countries and of social and territorial cohesion. Furthermore, the traceability of the methodology in its phases will allow to adapt the SDR to sudden events or exogenous shocks.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-04-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2022-0274
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Moderating effect of government policy on the relationship between
low-cost housing demand-supply gap and COVID-19 impact-
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Authors: Mohamad Shaharudin Samsurijan, Radin Badaruddin Radin Firdaus, Mohd Isa Rohayati, Andrew Ebekozien, Clinton Aigbavboa
Abstract: The COVID-19 impact across major sectors did not exempt the low-cost housing (LCH) sub-sector. This may have increased the existing LCH demand-supply gap, especially in developing countries such as Malaysia. Studies showed that government policy (GP) aids in mitigating COVID-19 impact on goods and services, including housing-related issues. However, there is an academic literature scarcity regarding GP on LCH demand-supply gap during the COVID-19 crisis in Malaysia. Hence, this study aims to investigate the moderating effect of GP on the relationship between LCH demand-supply gap and COVID-19 impact in Malaysia. The research utilised a quantitative method in collating the data from four major cities in Malaysia. SmartPLS was utilised to analyse the usable 305 questionnaires retrieved from respondents. Structuralist Theory supported the developed framework. Findings show that GP moderates the relationships between the LCH demand-supply gap and COVID-19 impact on Malaysia's low-income groups' (LIGs) homeownership delivery. It implies that the study's findings provide more understanding of issues influencing LCH demand-supply gap in the COVID-19 era via applying GP to mitigate the gap and improve homeownership for the disadvantaged. The study intends to stir policymakers toward formulating policies and programmes that will mitigate LCH demand-supply gap during the present and future pandemics. Besides the theoretical value of the developed model, policymakers can use the study's recommendations to mitigate future LCH demand-supply gaps during pandemics in developing countries using Malaysia as a case study.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-04-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0154
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A systematic evaluation on the competencies of construction supervisors in
productivity and performance improvement practices – Sri Lankan
perspective-
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Authors: Kesavan Manoharan, Pujitha Dissanayake, Chintha Pathirana, Dharsana Deegahawature, Renuka Silva
Abstract: A rise in productivity is associated with higher profits, competitiveness and the sustainability of an industry and a nation. Recent studies highlight inadequate labour supervision and training facilities as the main causes of productivity-related challenges among construction enterprises. This study aims to evaluate the construction supervisors' capabilities in applying the required elements of work practices for enhancing the performance and productivity of construction operations using a case study. A new construction supervisory training programme was developed through comprehensive sequential processes, and 64 construction supervisors underwent training . Marking guides with different levels of descriptions/standards were developed through consultations with experts and literature reviews, and the supervisors' capabilities were assessed under 64 competency elements of 12 competency units. The findings show a clear cross-section of all the required competencies of construction supervisors with various levels of standards/descriptions, leading to a new generalised guideline that helps to comprehend what degrees of skills can be taken into account in supervision attributes. Statistical tests and expert reviews were used to ensure the generalisability of the research applications and the reliability of the results. Despite the study findings being limited to the Sri Lankan construction industry, its applicability could create considerable impacts on the current/future practices of the construction sector in developing countries as well as other developing industries. The study adds new characteristics and values to construction supervision practices that can be remarkable in encouraging construction supervision to drive the sustainability of construction practices. The study findings are significant in decision-making/planning procedures related to technical comprehension, industry training, scientific documentation, adherence to workforce employment constraints and job outputs. This paper describes the further extensive implications and future scopes of the study elaborately. This study addresses the knowledge gap in the industry related to the development of protocols and application methodologies necessary to track their performance. The study opens a new window that inflows knowledge attributes to the industry sector along with the necessary comparison of the relevant competency elements to predict/comprehend what levels of capabilities can be theoretically considered and practically applied in supervision characteristics.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-04-11
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0242
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Benefits and challenges of wearable safety devices
in the construction sector
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Kabir Ibrahim, Fredrick Simpeh, Oluseyi Julius Adebowale
Abstract: Construction organizations must maintain a productive workforce without sacrificing their health and safety. The global construction sector loses billions of dollars yearly to poor health and safety practices. This study aims to investigate benefits derivable from using wearable technologies to improve construction health and safety. The study also reports the challenges associated with adopting wearable technologies. The study adopted a quantitative design, administering close-ended questions to professionals in the Nigerian construction industry. The research data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found that the critical areas construction organizations can benefit from using WSDs include slips and trips, sensing environmental concerns, collision avoidance, falling from a high level and electrocution. However, key barriers preventing the organizations from adopting wearable technologies are related to cost, technology and human factors. The time and cost lost to H&S incidents in the Nigerian construction sector can be reduced by implementing the report of this study. Studies on WSDs have continued to increase in developed countries, but Nigeria is yet to experience a leap in the research area. This study provides insights into the Nigerian reality to provide directions for practice and theory.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-03-22
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2022-0266
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A smart modern construction enterprise maturity model for business
scenarios leading to Industry 4.0-
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Authors: Priyadarshini Das, Srinath Perera, Sepani Senaratne, Robert Osei-Kyei
Abstract: Industry 4.0 is characterised by systemic transformations occurring exponentially, encompassing an array of dynamic processes and technologies. To move towards a more sustainable future, it is important to understand the nature of this transformation. However, construction enterprises are experiencing a capacity shortage in identifying the transitional management steps needed to navigate Industry 4.0 better. This paper presents a maturity model with the acronym “Smart Modern Construction Enterprise Maturity Model (SMCeMM)” that provides direction to construction enterprises. It adopts an iterative procedure to develop the maturity model. The attributes of Industry 4.0 maturity are obtained through a critical literature review. The model is further developed through knowledge elicitation using modified Delphi-based expert forums and subsequent analysis through qualitative techniques. The conceptual validity of the model is established through a validation expert forum. The research defines maturity characteristics of construction enterprises across five levels namely ad-hoc, driven, transforming, integrated and innovative encompassing seven process categories; data management, people and culture, leadership and strategy, automation, collaboration and communication, change management and innovation. The maturity characteristics are then translated into assessment criteria which can be used to assess how mature a construction enterprise is in navigating Industry 4.0. The results advance the field of Industry 4.0 strategy research in construction. The findings can be used to access Industry 4.0 maturity of general contractors of varying sizes and scales and generate a set of recommendations to support their macroscopic strategic planning.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-03-13
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2022-0205
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Explaining resilience model of historical bazaars using artificial
neural network-
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Authors: Mina Heydari Torkamani, Yaser Shahbazi, Azita Belali Oskoyi
Abstract: Historical bazaars, a huge treasure of Iranian culture, art and economy, are places for social capital development. Un-supervised management in past decades has led to the demolition and change of historical bazaars and negligence of its different aspects. The present research aims to investigate the resilience of historical bazaars preserving their identity and different developments. The artificial neural network (ANN) has been applied to investigate the resilience of historical bazaars. This model consists of three main networks for evaluating the resilience of historical networks in terms of adaptability, variability and reactivity. The ANN proposed to evaluate the resilience of historic bazaars based on the mentioned factors is efficient. By calculating mean squared error (MSE), the model accuracy for evaluating adaptability, variability and reactivity were obtained at 7.62e-25, 2.91e-24 and 1.51e-24. The correlation coefficient was obtained at a significance level of 99%. This indicates the considerable effectiveness of the artificial intelligence model in modeling and predicting the qualitative properties of historical bazaars resilience. This paper clarifies indexes and components of resilience in terms of adaptability, variability and reactivity. Then, the ANN model is obtained with the least error and very high accuracy that predict the resilience of historical bazaars.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-03-09
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0123
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A review of the advanced treatment techniques for enriching the recycled
concrete aggregates for recycled-based concrete: economic, environmental
and technical analysis-
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Authors: Bahareh Nikmehr, Bidur Kafle, Riyadh Al-Ameri
Abstract: This study aimed to review various existing methods for improving the quality of recycled concrete aggregates (RCAs) as a possible substitution for natural aggregates (NAs) in concrete. It is vital as the old paste attached to the RCA weakens its structure. It is due to the porous structure of the RCA with cracks, weakening the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) between the RCA and binding material, negatively impacting the concrete's properties. To this end, various methods for reinforcement of the RCA, cleaning the RCA's old paste and enhancing the quality of the RCA-based concrete without RCA modification are studied in terms of environmental effects, cost and technical matters. Furthermore, this research sought to identify gaps in knowledge and future research directions. The review of the relevant journal papers revealed that various methods exist for improving the properties of RCAs and RCA-based concrete. A decision matrix was developed and implemented for ranking these techniques based on environmental, economic and technical criteria. The identified methods for reinforcement of the RCA include accelerated carbonation, bio deposition, soaking in polymer emulsions, soaking in waterproofing admixture, soaking in sodium silicate, soaking in nanoparticles and coating with geopolymer slurry. Moreover, cleaning the RCA's old paste is possible using acid, water, heating, thermal and mechanical treatment, thermo-mechanical and electro-dynamic treatment. Added to these treatment techniques, using RCA in saturated surface dry (SSD) mixing approaches and adding fibres or pozzolana enhance the quality of the RCA-based concrete without RCA modification. The study ranked these techniques based on environmental, economic and technical criteria. Ultimately, adding fibres, pozzolana and coating RCA with geopolymer slurry were introduced as the best techniques based on the nominated criteria. The study supported the need for better knowledge regarding the existing treatment techniques for RCA improvement. The outcomes of this research offer an understanding of each RCA enrichment technique's importance in environmental, economic and technical criteria. The practicality of the RCA treatment techniques is based on economic, environmental and technical specifications for rating the existing treatment techniques.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-03-02
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0243
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- An automatic image processing based on Hough transform algorithm for
pavement crack detection and classification-
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Authors: Sandra Matarneh, Faris Elghaish, Amani Al-Ghraibah, Essam Abdellatef, David John Edwards
Abstract: Incipient detection of pavement deterioration (such as crack identification) is critical to optimizing road maintenance because it enables preventative steps to be implemented to mitigate damage and possible failure. Traditional visual inspection has been largely superseded by semi-automatic/automatic procedures given significant advancements in image processing. Therefore, there is a need to develop automated tools to detect and classify cracks. The literature review is employed to evaluate existing attempts to use Hough transform algorithm and highlight issues that should be improved. Then, developing a simple low-cost crack detection method based on the Hough transform algorithm for pavement crack detection and classification. Analysis results reveal that model accuracy reaches 92.14% for vertical cracks, 93.03% for diagonal cracks and 95.61% for horizontal cracks. The time lapse for detecting the crack type for one image is circa 0.98 s for vertical cracks, 0.79 s for horizontal cracks and 0.83 s for diagonal cracks. Ensuing discourse serves to illustrate the inherent potential of a simple low-cost image processing method in automated pavement crack detection. Moreover, this method provides direct guidance for long-term pavement optimal maintenance decisions. The outcome of this research can help highway agencies to detect and classify cracks accurately for a very long highway without a need for manual inspection, which can significantly minimize cost. Hough transform algorithm was tested in terms of detect and classify a large dataset of highway images, and the accuracy reaches 92.14%, which can be considered as a very accurate percentage regarding automated cracks and distresses classification.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-01-2023-0004
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- BIM-enabled virtual reality (VR)-based pedagogical framework in
architectural design studios-
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Authors: Aso Hajirasouli, Saeed Banihashemi, Paul Sanders, Farzad Rahimian
Abstract: Over the past decade, architecture, construction and engineering (ACE) industries have been evolving from traditional practices into more current, interdisciplinary and technology integrated methods. Intricate digital tools and mobile computing such as computational design, simulation and immersive technologies, have been extensively used for different purposes in this field. Immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have proven to be very advantageous while the research is in its infancy in the field. Therefore, this study aims to develop an immersive pedagogical framework that can create a more engaging teaching and learning environment and enhance students' skill in the ACE field. This study developed a BIM-enabled VR-based pedagogical framework for the design studio teaching in architectural courses, using a qualitative approach. A case study method was then used to test and validate this developed framework. Architectural Master Design Studio B, at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) was selected as the case study, with South Bank Corporation (SBC) as the industry partner and stakeholder of this project. The practicality and efficiency of this framework was confirmed through increased students' and stakeholders' engagement. Some of the additional outcomes of this digitally enhanced pedagogical framework are as follows: enhanced students' engagement, active participation, collective knowledge construction and increased creativity and motivation. The results have proven that the developed technology-enhanced and digitally enabled teaching pedagogy and framework can be successfully implemented into architectural design studios. This can bridge the existing gap between the technological advancements in ACE industry and higher education teaching and learning methods and outcomes. It is also expected that such innovative pedagogies will future-proof students' skill set as the future generation of architects and built environment workers. A major limitation of this framework is accessibility to the required hardware such as HMD, controllers, high-capacity computers and so on. Although the required software is widely accessible, particularly through universities licencing, the required hardware is yet to be readily and widely available and accessible. The result of this study can be implemented in the architectural design studios and other ACE related classrooms in higher educations. This can bridge the existing gap between the technological advancements in ACE industry, and higher education teaching and learning methods and outcomes. It is also expected that such innovative pedagogies will future-proof students' skill set. Such technology-enhanced teaching methods have proven to enhance students' engagement, active participation, collective knowledge construction and increased creativity and motivation. Despite the advancement of digital technologies in ACE industry, the application of such technologies and tools in higher education context are not yet completely explored and still scarce. Besides, there is still a significant gap in the body of knowledge about developing teaching methods and established pedagogies that embrace the usage of such technologies in the design and architecture curricula.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0149
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A systematic review of online learning and teaching strategies during the
COVID-19 pandemic: implications for the construction management sector-
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Authors: Behzad Abbasnejad, Sahar Soltani, Peter Wong
Abstract: Most educational institutions worldwide have shifted to online teaching and learning approaches to mitigate risks imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This causes several issues, particularly in delivering the construction management (CM) courses which require site visits, interpreting technical drawings and developing 3D building models. This paper aims to identify the key strategies for online learning and teaching adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic and to investigate the implications for construction management education. The research approach is twofold. First, the study presents a systematic literature review (SLR) through a synthesis of the existing literature to identify the key strategies and lessons learned about online education during the COVID-19 pandemic in tertiary programs. It also discusses their implications in the context of the construction management (CM) sector in particular. Secondly, the authors shared their hands-on experience as construction management course facilitators – using the autoethnography approach – during the COVID-19 crisis. In addition to identifying the key strategies such as online course delivery and assessments, the paper critically discusses the barriers to online learning and teaching, including (1) the technological and infrastructure barriers; (2) required online teaching skills and competencies; (3) issues surrounding mental health and wellbeing; (4) lack of consistency in the online delivery of various courses in a given program (5) difficulties around students' engagement and (6) the course characteristics and requirements. The study offers some implications and recommendations not only for educational institutions and staff but also for vendors of online course delivery software. To prepare educational institutions for future online course delivery, the paper proposes several strategies. These include developing a set of guidelines for online course delivery, incorporating online teaching training modules into the recruitment process for academic staff, applying agile and resilience teaching and learning methods, wellbeing and mental health support and continuously improving course features to adapt to the online environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0174
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Critical review of urban community resilience indicators
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Authors: Robert Osei-Kyei, Vivian Tam, Ursa Komac, Godslove Ampratwum
Abstract: Urban communities can be faced with many destructive events that can disrupt the daily functioning of activities and livelihood of people living in the communities. In this regard, during the last couple of years, many governments have put a lot of efforts into building resilient urban communities. Essentially, a resilient urban community has the capacity to anticipate future disasters, prepare for and recover timely from adverse effects of disasters and unexpected circumstances. Considering this, it is therefore important for the need to continuously review the existing urban community resilience indicators, in order to identify emerging ones to enable comprehensive evaluation of urban communities in the future against unexpected events. This study therefore aims to conduct a systematic review to develop and critically analyse the emerging and leading urban community resilience indicators. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRSIMA) protocol, 53 journal articles were selected using Scopus. The selected papers were subjected to thorough content analysis. From the review, 45 urban community resilience indicators were identified. These indicators were grouped into eight broad categories namely, Socio-demographic, Economic, Institutional Resilience, Infrastructure and Housing Resilience, Collaboration, Community Capital, Risk Data Accumulation and Geographical and Spatial characteristics of community. Further, the results indicated that the U.S had the highest number of publications, followed by Australia, China, New Zealand and Taiwan. In fact, very few studies emanated from developing economies. The outputs of this study will inform policymakers, practitioners and researchers on the new and emerging indicators that should be considered when evaluating the resilience level of urban communities. The findings will also serve as a theoretical foundation for further detailed empirical investigation.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0180
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Ground-level documentation of heat stress exposure and response strategies
in informal settlements in Tshwane, South Africa
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Jan Marais Hugo, Paul Walter Sonnendecker
Abstract: The adverse impacts of climate change coupled with rapid informal urbanization in the Southern African region are increasing the vulnerability of already sensitive population groups. Consequently, these urban regions are highly vulnerable to urban heat island effects and heatwaves due to exogenous and endogenous factors. While the dynamic interplay between the built environment, climate and response strategies is known, this paper highlights the lived experience of informal settlement residents. It presents work from a project undertaken in Melusi, an informal settlement in Tshwane, South Africa, as a multi-disciplinary project focusing on improving the local resilience to climate change associated heat stress. Following a mixed method approach, a semi-structured observational analysis of the spatial layout and material articulation of selected dwellings along with the continuous monitoring and recording of their indoor environments were undertaken. The paper presents the research results in terms of the dwelling characteristics, as spatial and material-use strategies and documented heat stress exposure in these structures. The findings highlight that informal dwellings perform poorly in all cases due to endogenous factors and that inhabitants experience extreme heat stress conditions for between 6 and 10 h daily during the peak summer period. Currently, there are little empirical data on the heat stress residents living in informal settlements in Southern Africa are experiencing. This article provides insight into the indoor environments of informal dwellings and hopes to contribute future guidelines or heat health policies.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0229
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Implementation of lean for small- and medium-sized construction
organisational improvement-
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Authors: Jamiu A. Dauda, Saheed Ajayi, Temitope Omotayo, Olayiwola O. Oladiran, Olusegun M. Ilori
Abstract: Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the construction sector are highly vulnerable to disruptions caused by political and economic decisions or even pandemics. This study evaluated the current operations of selected SMEs providing engineering design and consultancy services against Toyota Production System (TPS) lean tool. The purpose is to juxtapose SME operations and processes with TPS to ascertain the level of their operations conformity to the established TPS lean thinking tool. This study used a qualitative data collection and analysis approach to evaluate the current processes of participating SMEs against Liker's 14 management principles of TPS. The data collected were analysed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes that emerged from the qualitative data. The analysis revealed that focus on short-term goals, immediate profit and duplication of effort resulting from insufficient collaboration is currently creating waste in participating SMEs' operations. Hence, the implementation of TPS was recommended as a lean tool and a framework based on TPS lean tool was developed for improving the operations of SMEs. The study is limited to SMEs operating only as consultants providing project planning design within the construction industry. Data collection is limited to qualitative even though observations would improve the outcome of the study. The study advances contemporary issues in promoting lean implementation in construction sector and developed an improved framework based on the TPS to enhance the performance of SME construction businesses.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0233
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A review of the interrelationships and characteristics of Building
Information Modeling, Integrated Project Delivery and Lean Construction
maturity models-
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Authors: Sara Rashidian, Robin Drogemuller, Sara Omrani, Fereshteh Banakar
Abstract: The application of integrated project delivery (IPD) in conjunction with building information modeling (BIM) and Lean Construction (LC) as the efficient method for improving collaboration and delivering construction projects has been acknowledged by construction academics and professionals. Once organizations have fully embraced BIM, IPD and LC integration, a measurement tool such as a maturity model (MM) for benchmarking their progress and setting realistic goals for continuous improvement will be required. In the context of MMs literature, however, no comprehensive analysis of these three construction management methods has been published to reveal the current trends and common themes in which the models have approached each other. Therefore, this study integrates systematic literature review (SLR) and thematic analysis techniques to review and categorize the related MMs; the key themes in which the interrelationship between BIM, IPD and LC MMs has been discussed and conceptualized in the attributes; the shared characteristics of the existing BIM, IPD and LC MMs, as well as their strengths and limitations. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) method has been used as the primary procedure for article screening and reviewing published papers between 2007 and 2022. Despite the growth of BIM, IPD and LC integration publications and acknowledgment in the literature, no MM has been established that holistically measures BIM, IPD and LC integration in an organization. This study identifies five interrelated and overlapping themes indicative of the collaboration of BIM, IPD and LC in existing MMs' structure, including customer satisfaction, waste minimization, Lean practices and cultural and legal aspects. Furthermore, the MMs' common characteristics, strengths and limitations are evaluated to provide a foundation for developing future BIM, IPD and LC-related MMs. This paper examines the current status of research and the knowledge gaps around BIM, IPD and LC MMs. In addition, the highlighted major themes serve as a foundation for academics who intend to develop integrated BIM, IPD, and LC MMs. This will enable researchers to build upon these themes and establish a comprehensive list of maturity attributes fulfilling the BIM, IPD and LC requirements and principles. In addition, the MMs' BIM, IPD and LC compatibility themes, which go beyond themes' intended characteristics in silos, increase industry practitioners' awareness of the underlying factors of BIM, IPD and LC integration. This review article is the first of a kind to analyze the interaction of IPD, BIM and LC in the context of MMs in current AEC literature. This study concludes that BIM, IPD and LC share several joint cornerstones according to the existing MMs.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0236
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Immersive virtual reality training for excavation safety and hazard
identification-
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Authors: Zhenan Feng, Ruggiero Lovreglio, Tak Wing Yiu, Dwayne Mark Acosta, Banghao Sun, Nan Li
Abstract: In the construction sector, site excavation is one of the most dangerous and challenging activities. Proper training can be an effective way to mitigate excavation hazards. Virtual reality (VR) has been used as an effective training tool to enhance safety performance in various industries. However, little attention has been paid to the potential of this technology for construction excavation safety training. This study proposes an immersive VR training system for excavation safety and hazard identification. The proposed VR training system was compared with a health and safety manual via a controlled experiment. Results based on scores obtained immediately after training indicate that VR training significantly enhanced practical performance, knowledge acquisition and self-efficacy. Results also show that knowledge was retained four weeks after training. In addition, VR training outperformed health and safety manuals regarding knowledge retention. This study measures the practical performance to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed VR training system. Also, this study compares the VR training system with a traditional training method by measuring knowledge acquisition and retention. The results demonstrate the potential of VR as a training tool for excavation safety and hazards.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-16
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0235
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Context-based learning for BIM: simulative role-playing
games for strategic business implementations-
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Authors: Ozan Önder Özener
Abstract: This paper presents a set of instrumental case studies for the context-based learning of BIM in the milieu of knowledge-based practice in the AEC industry. The study aimed to examine students' actions and perspectives in a simulated learning environment for real-world BIM processes. The core intent was to provide an in-depth understanding of strategic and functional BIM implementation by synthesizing a suggestive pedagogical framework based on context-based learning approaches. Derived from context-based approaches and experiential learning methods such as role-play, problem-based and active learning, the study involved a set of doctoral-level case studies. In a qualitative research study, these cases were devised and organized around industry-focused simulations on various levels of BIM implementation strategies. Results from the case studies and the student responses suggest that the comprehensive evaluation of real-world BIM implementation simulations facilitates a solid understanding of the value of BIM. The participation of industry professionals catalyzes the development of strategic and functional BIM competencies. The study proposes a well-structured and replicable BIM learning framework based on context-based learning approaches. The novel framework is adaptive and flexible for BIM education. It can provide students with the necessary skills, strategic vision and professional competencies for innovative practices in the 21st-century AEC Industry. The simulative learning settings, including the evaluation rubrics and connected instructional methods, can be implemented and further developed for similar education efforts.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-14
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0184
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Simplified rating tool to evaluate sustainable practices of small-scale
infrastructure projects in Australia – a comparative review-
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Authors: Malindu Sasanka Sandanayake, Zora Vrcelj, Yanni Bouras, Hing-Wah Chau, Patrick Hastings
Abstract: The present study aims to inform the requirements for developing a sustainable rating tool for small-scale infrastructure projects (SSIPs) through research findings. A review-based comparative study of existing infrastructure sustainability (IS) rating tools for assessment of SSIPs is presented. Key stakeholder participants of the existing IS rating tools, are interviewed to identify existing barriers and requirements for sustainability rating. The study further presents possible rating tool options to optimise the sustainable performance evaluation of SSIPs. Findings of this study indicated that prevalent IS rating tools are majorly applied to large-scale infrastructure projects and sustainability of SSIPs are seldom assessed. Based on a literature review and series of interviews, it was found that user friendliness, efficient structure, training and technical support, cost effectiveness and stakeholder recognition are the five key requirements of a sustainability rating tool for SSIPs. Additionally, six sustainability assessment options were proposed for SSIPs which range from pathways for existing tools through to new, customisable tools. Upon comparison, a new modified tool with verification process and revised tool with defined grouping of sustainable criteria was more effective for evaluation of SSIPs. Use of case specific information for validation and framework development may lack generalisation. However, methodology can be used for future decision-making by making necessary adjustments to suit different local regional requirements. Despite lack of generalisation, the findings can lead to future general studies on sustainability of SSIPs. Findings of the study provide foundation knowledge and awareness for sustainability evaluation of SSIPs.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-03
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-05-2022-0089
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Factors influencing the intention to adopt green construction:
an application of the theory of planned behaviour-
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Authors: Patience Tunji-Olayeni, Kahilu Kajimo-Shakantu, Timothy Oluwafemi Ayodele
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to assess the behavioural factors that influence professionals' intention to adopt green construction based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). The study adopted a quantitative research design with the use of online questionnaires to elicit information from construction professionals in South Africa. Descriptive statistics of frequencies, mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data obtained from the survey. Linear regression was also used to assess the effect of behavioural factors on professionals' intention to adopt green construction. The results showed that attitude and perceived behavioural control (PBC) have a significant effect on the intention to adopt green construction. These were significant at p
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-03
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0126
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- A comparison of low-cost housing units for varying climatic regions in
South Africa: a knowledge management approach
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Francine van Tonder, P.D. Rwelamila
Abstract: One of the greatest challenges faced by the 1994 post-apartheid government in South Africa is the housing problem that has persisted for almost 30 years into democracy. Innovation in research and practice is required to address this problem. This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned objective. This paper presents an argument for housing knowledge management as one part of a much larger system of housing provision and critically compares information variations on one hypothetical, low-cost housing unit adapted for varying climatic regions. It aims to enquire if there is an overlap in information. The findings do confirm a noteworthy overlap in the information of the varying units. Therefore, knowledge management of the information would prove effective and may contribute in part to housing provision. The study is limited to assessing the information changes made to the contract documentation of the housing unit. The paper argues that knowledge management of this overlapping information could impact housing provision by providing knowledge power to those affected by the housing problem. The findings are a unique perspective presented through a knowledge management lens. In addition, the said knowledge management lens provides a platform to raise additional questions. When seeking answers to these questions, it is expected that research sub-themes would be identified focussing further research studies towards finding answers.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-02-01
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2022-0237
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Validating and testing a project delivery success model in construction:
a mixed-method approach in Australia-
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Authors: Amir Naser Ghanbaripour, Craig Langston, Roksana Jahan Tumpa, Greg Skulmoski
Abstract: Despite considerable research on the subject, there is still some misunderstanding about what characterizes successful project delivery in construction projects. Evaluating project delivery success is crucial for organizations since it enables them to prepare for future growth through more effective project management mechanisms and rank the organization's projects for continuous improvement. There is considerable disagreement over a set of success criteria that can be applied to all kinds of projects when evaluating project delivery success, making it a complicated procedure for practitioners and scholars. This research seeks to alleviate the problem by validating and testing a systematic project delivery success model (3D integration model) in the Australian construction industry. The aim is to establish a dependable approach built upon prior research and reliable in evaluating delivery success for any project type. Based on a novel project delivery success model, this research applies a case study methodology to analyse 40 construction projects undertaken by a single Australian project management consultancy. The research utilizes a mixed-method research approach and triangulates three sets of data. First, the project delivery success (PDS) scores of the projects are calculated by the model. Second, a qualitative analysis targeting the performance of the same projects using a different system called the performance assessment review (PAR) scores was obtained. These culminate in two sets of ranking. The third step seeks validation of results from the head of the partnering organization that has undertaken the projects. The findings of this study indicate that the 3D integration model is accurate and reliable in measuring the success of project delivery in construction projects of various sizes, locations and durations. While the model uses six key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure delivery success, it is evident that three of these may significantly improve the likelihood of PDS: value, speed and impact. Project managers should focus on these priority aspects of performance to generate better results. Restrictions inherent to the case study approach are identified for this mixed-method multiple-case study research. There is a limitation on the sample size in this study. Despite the researcher's best efforts, no other firm was willing to share such essential data; therefore, only 40 case studies could be analysed. Nonetheless, the number of case studies met the literature's requirements for adequate units for multiple-case research. This research only looked at Australian construction projects. Thus, the conclusions may not seem applicable to other countries or industries. The authors investigated testing the PDS in the construction sector. It can assist in improving efficiency and resource optimization in this area. Nonetheless, the same technique may be used to analyse and rank the success of non-construction projects. Despite the research conducted previously on the PDS of construction projects, there is still confusion among researchers and practitioners about what constitutes a successful project delivery. Although several studies have attempted to address this confusion, no consensus on consistent performance metrics or a practical project success model has been formed. More importantly, (1) the ability to measure success across multiple project types, (2) the use of triple bottom line (TBL) to incorporate sustainability in evaluating delivery success and (3) the use of a complexity measurement tool to adjust delivery success scores set the 3D integration model apart from others.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-23
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2022-0200
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Learning-to-learn sand cone model integrated lean learning framework for
construction industry-
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Authors: Agana Parameswaran, K.A.T.O. Ranadewa
Abstract: The lack of knowledge has hindered the successful implementation of lean in the construction industry. This has alarmed the need for lean learning practices. Out of numerous models, the learning-to-learn sand cone model received a wider acknowledgment for learning practices. Thus, this study aims to propose a learning-to-learn sand cone model integrated lean learning framework for the construction industry. The research adopted an interpretivism stance. A qualitative research approach was adopted for the study. Consequently, fifteen (15) semi-structured interviews and document reviews were carried out to collect data in three (3) cases selected through purposive sampling. Code-based content analysis was used to analyse the data. Fifty-two (52) sub-activities pertaining to nine lean learners at each stage of the lean learning procedure were identified. The most significant practices in the lean learning procedure to continuously improve lean learning in the organisation were maintaining records, providing a performance update to senior management and preparing and distributing several hierarchical manuals for all levels of staff to aid in the implementation of lean approaches. The findings of the research can be aided to successfully implement lean by following the identified sub-activities via various parties within the organisation. The proposed lean learning framework opens several research areas on lean learning in the construction industry. This is the first research to uncover a lean learning framework in the construction industry rather than at the educational institute level.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-23
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2022-0234
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Asset information requirements for blockchain-based digital twins: a
data-driven predictive analytics perspective
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Benjamin Hellenborn, Oscar Eliasson, Ibrahim Yitmen, Habib Sadri
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify the key data categories and characteristics defined by asset information requirements (AIR) and how this affects the development and maintenance of an asset information model (AIM) for a blockchain-based digital twin (DT). A mixed-method approach involving qualitative and quantitative analysis was used to gather empirical data through semistructured interviews and a digital questionnaire survey with an emphasis on AIR for blockchain-based DTs from a data-driven predictive analytics perspective. Based on the analysis of results three key data categories were identified, core data, static operation and maintenance (OM) data, and dynamic OM data, along with the data characteristics required to perform data-driven predictive analytics through artificial intelligence (AI) in a blockchain-based DT platform. The findings also include how the creation and maintenance of an AIM is affected in this context. The key data categories and characteristics specified through AIR to support predictive data-driven analytics through AI in a blockchain-based DT will contribute to the development and maintenance of an AIM. The research explores the process of defining, delivering and maintaining the AIM and the potential use of blockchain technology (BCT) as a facilitator for data trust, integrity and security.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-19
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0183
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Project-based learning for proactive skills development of postgraduate
students in solar energy building design digitalisation-
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Authors: Chathuri Gunarathna, Rebecca Yang, Pabasara Wijeratne Mudiyanselage, Gayashan Amarasinghe, Tharushi Samarasinghalage, R.P. Nilmini Weerasinghe, Hongying Zhao, Chaoxiang Zhang, Chengyang Liu, Kaige Wang, Sujan Dev Sureshkumar Jayakumari
Abstract: Project-based learning is one of the most effective methods of transferring academic knowledge and skills to real-world situations in higher education. However, its effectiveness is not much investigated focusing on the students' narrative. This study aims at evaluating the students' experience and perspective on adopting project-based learning in master by research and doctoral programmes for proactive skills development. This study evaluates the self-reflection of 10 postgraduate students and their supervisor who have participated in developing a software tool for solar photovoltaics (PV) integrated building envelope design, management and the related education. Findings reveal that the students have effectively improved their knowledge on the subject via collaborating with the industry, self-learning/observation, peer learning, problem-solving and teamwork. Dividing the project into student-led tasks has improved the decision-making and leadership skills, risks identification, planning and time management skills. The overall experience has (1) built up confidence in students, (2) enhanced their creativity and critical thinking and (3) improved their proactive skills and context knowledge. A clear research gap can be seen in exploring the effectiveness of project-based learning for master by research and doctoral programmes, which mainly focus on extensive research. These programmes do not necessarily focus on developing students' proactive skills, which is the main requirement if they intend to work in the construction industry. This paper addresses the above research gap by demonstrating the effectiveness of project-based learning for developing the proactive skills in a research-intensive learning environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0173
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Major opportunities of digital twins for smart buildings:
a scientometric and content analysis-
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Authors: Frank Ato Ghansah, Weisheng Lu
Abstract: Digital twins provide enormous opportunities for smart buildings. However, an up-to-date intellectual landscape to understand and identify the major opportunities of digital twins for smart buildings is still not enough. This study, therefore, performs an up-to-date comprehensive literature review to identify the major opportunities of digital twins for smart buildings. Scientometric and content analysis are utilised to comprehensively evaluate the intellectual landscape of the general knowledge of digital twins for smart buildings. The study uncovered 24 opportunities that were further categorised into four major opportunities: efficient building performance (smart “building” environment), efficient building process (smart construction site environment), information efficiency and effective user interactions. The study further identified the limitations of the existing studies and made recommendations for future research in the methodology adopted and the research domain. Five research domains were considered for future research, namely “real-time data acquisition, processing and storage”, “security and privacy issues”, “standardised and domain modelling”, “collaboration between the building industry and the digital twin developers” and “skilled workforce to enable a seamless transition from theory to practice”. All stakeholders, including practitioners, policymakers and researchers in the field of “architecture, engineering, construction and operations” (AECO), may benefit from the findings of this study by gaining an in-depth understanding of the opportunities of digital twins and their implementation in smart buildings in the AECO industry. The limitations and the possible research directions may serve as guidelines for streamlining the practical adoption and implementation of digital twins for smart buildings. This study adopted scientometric and content analysis to comprehensively assess the intellectual landscape of relevant literature and identify four major opportunities of digital twins for smart building, to which scholars have given limited attention. Finally, a research direction framework is presented to address the identified limitations of existing studies and help envision the ideal state of digital twins for smart buildings.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2022-0192
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- Automated detection of learning stages and interaction difficulty from
eye-tracking data within a mixed reality learning environmen-
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Authors: Omobolanle Ruth Ogunseiju, Nihar Gonsalves, Abiola Abosede Akanmu, Yewande Abraham, Chukwuma Nnaji
Abstract: Construction companies are increasingly adopting sensing technologies like laser scanners, making it necessary to upskill the future workforce in this area. However, limited jobsite access hinders experiential learning of laser scanning, necessitating the need for an alternative learning environment. Previously, the authors explored mixed reality (MR) as an alternative learning environment for laser scanning, but to promote seamless learning, such learning environments must be proactive and intelligent. Toward this, the potentials of classification models for detecting user difficulties and learning stages in the MR environment were investigated in this study. The study adopted machine learning classifiers on eye-tracking data and think-aloud data for detecting learning stages and interaction difficulties during the usability study of laser scanning in the MR environment. The classification models demonstrated high performance, with neural network classifier showing superior performance (accuracy of 99.9%) during the detection of learning stages and an ensemble showing the highest accuracy of 84.6% for detecting interaction difficulty during laser scanning. The findings of this study revealed that eye movement data possess significant information about learning stages and interaction difficulties and provide evidence of the potentials of smart MR environments for improved learning experiences in construction education. The research implication further lies in the potential of an intelligent learning environment for providing personalized learning experiences that often culminate in improved learning outcomes. This study further highlights the potential of such an intelligent learning environment in promoting inclusive learning, whereby students with different cognitive capabilities can experience learning tailored to their specific needs irrespective of their individual differences. The classification models will help detect learners requiring additional support to acquire the necessary technical skills for deploying laser scanners in the construction industry and inform the specific training needs of users to enhance seamless interaction with the learning environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2023-01-09
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0129
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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- The green office environment: New Zealand workers' perception of IEQ
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Eziaku Onyeizu Rasheed, James Olabode Bamidele Rotimi
Abstract: Achieving an appropriate indoor environment quality (IEQ) is crucial to a green office environment. Whilst much research has been carried out across the globe on the ideal IEQ for green offices, little is known about which indoor environment New Zealand office workers prefer and regard as most appropriate. This study investigated New Zealand office workers' preference for a green environment. Workers were conveniently selected for a questionnaire survey study from two major cities in the country – Wellington and Auckland. The perception of 149 workers was analysed and discussed based on the workers' demographics. The responses to each question were analysed based on the mean, standard deviation, frequency of responses and difference in opinion. The results showed that workers' preferences for an ideal IEQ in green work environments depend largely on demographics. New Zealand office workers prefer work environments to have more fresh air and rely on mixed-mode ventilation and lighting systems. Also New Zealand office workers like to have better acoustic quality with less distraction and background noise. Regarding temperature, workers prefer workspaces to be neither cooler nor warmer. Unique to New Zealand workers, the workers prefer to have some (not complete) individual control over the IEQ in offices. This study was conducted in the summer season, which could have impacted the responses received. Also the sample size was limited to two major cities in the country. Further studies should be conducted in other regions and during different seasons. This study provides the opportunity for more studies in this area of research and highlights significant findings worthy of critical investigations. The results of this study benefit various stakeholders, such as facilities managers and workplace designers, and support proactive response approaches to achieving building occupants' preferences for an ideal work environment. This study is the first research in New Zealand to explore worker preferences of IEQ that is not limited to a particular building, expanding the body of knowledge on workers' perception of the ideal work environment in the country.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-12-29
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2022-0204
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- A machine learning approach for predicting critical factors determining
adoption of offsite construction in Nigeria-
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Authors: Godoyon Ebenezer Wusu, Hafiz Alaka, Wasiu Yusuf, Iofis Mporas, Luqman Toriola-Coker, Raphael Oseghale
Abstract: Several factors influence OSC adoption, but extant literature did not articulate the dominant barriers or drivers influencing adoption. Therefore, this research has not only ventured into analyzing the core influencing factors but has also employed one of the best-known predictive means, Machine Learning, to identify the most influencing OSC adoption factors. The research approach is deductive in nature, focusing on finding out the most critical factors through literature review and reinforcing — the factors through a 5- point Likert scale survey questionnaire. The responses received were tested for reliability before being run through Machine Learning algorithms to determine the most influencing OSC factors within the Nigerian Construction Industry (NCI). The research outcome identifies seven (7) best-performing algorithms for predicting OSC adoption: Decision Tree, Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbour, Extra-Trees, AdaBoost, Support Vector Machine and Artificial Neural Network. It also reported finance, awareness, use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and belief in OSC as the main influencing factors. Data were primarily collected among the NCI professionals/workers and the whole exercise was Nigeria region-based. The research outcome, however, provides a foundation for OSC adoption potential within Nigeria, Africa and beyond. The research concluded that with detailed attention paid to the identified factors, OSC usage could find its footing in Nigeria and, consequently, Africa. The models can also serve as a template for other regions where OSC adoption is being considered. The research establishes the most effective algorithms for the prediction of OSC adoption possibilities as well as critical influencing factors to successfully adopting OSC within the NCI as a means to surmount its housing shortage.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-12-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0113
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- An evaluation of stakeholders' participation process in developing smart
sustainable cities in Saudi Arabia-
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Authors: Abood Khaled Alamoudi, Rotimi Boluwatife Abidoye, Terence Y.M. Lam
Abstract: The smart sustainable cities (SSC) concept has a wide acknowledgement amongst governments and societies that deal with emerging technology and help in developing better urban communities. However, the fact that citizens' participation (CP) is not adherent to the current policies and governance often boosts their aspirations of decision-making to become smart cities. This paper aims to identify SSC variables and, more importantly, rank, categorise and discuss the factors towards implementing SSC by engaging, empowering and enabling citizens to participate in the urban development of SSC. A comprehensive literature review identified 38 factors in the CP process. Those factors were used to design an online questionnaire administered to the respondents. A total of 164 valid responses were collected. A two-stage statistical analysis was adopted. First, the Relative Importance Index (RII) was used to rank and prioritise the importance of the factors that affect the current policies and agenda. Second, factor analysis was utilised to categorise and group those factors. This study founds four significant factors that help in implanting SSC: “knowledge of smart sustainable cities”, “awareness of smart sustainable cities”, “willingness of the citizens to participate” and “opinion on the current agenda of the government's role”. This study has a few limitations which can be considered in future studies. First, the response rate of the participant is relatively low (163), so sampling a larger segment will support the broader perception of the citizens. The outcome of this paper underlines the need for the successful implementation of smart cities by adopting CP in the process of impacting policies and governance. Particularly, it identifies factors that help cities and policymakers in engaging CP in developing new policies and revising existing policies for promoting SSC. There is a need to investigate the most critical factors that influence CP for implementing SSC. These factors have not been adequately examined in extant literature.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-12-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0170
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- An interactive assessment framework for residential space layouts using
pix2pix predictive model at the early-stage building design-
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Authors: Fatemeh Mostafavi, Mohammad Tahsildoost, Zahra Sadat Zomorodian, Seyed Shayan Shahrestani
Abstract: In this study, a novel framework based on deep learning models is presented to assess energy and environmental performance of a given building space layout, facilitating the decision-making process at the early-stage design. A methodology using an image-based deep learning model called pix2pix is proposed to predict the overall daylight, energy and ventilation performance of a given residential building space layout. The proposed methodology is then evaluated by being applied to 300 sample apartment units in Tehran, Iran. Four pix2pix models were trained to predict illuminance, spatial daylight autonomy (sDA), primary energy intensity and ventilation maps. The simulation results were considered ground truth. The results showed an average structural similarity index measure (SSIM) of 0.86 and 0.81 for the predicted illuminance and sDA maps, respectively, and an average score of 88% for the predicted primary energy intensity and ventilation representative maps, each of which is outputted within three seconds. The proposed framework in this study helps upskilling the design professionals involved with the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry through engaging artificial intelligence in human–computer interactions. The specific novelties of this research are: first, evaluating indoor environmental metrics (daylight and ventilation) alongside the energy performance of space layouts using pix2pix model, second, widening the assessment scope to a group of spaces forming an apartment layout at five different floors and third, incorporating the impact of building context on the intended objectives.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-12-07
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0152
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Building information modeling (BIM) for lifecycle carbon emission:
scientometric and scoping literature reviews-
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Authors: Hanane Bouhmoud, Dalila Loudyi, Salman Azhar
Abstract: Considering the world population, an additional 415.1 billion m2 of built floor will be needed by 2050, which could worsen the environmental impact of the construction industry that is responsible for one-third of global Carbon Emissions (CEs). Thus, the current construction practices need to be upgraded toward eco-friendly technologies. Building Information Modeling (BIM) proved a significant potential to enhance Building and Infrastructure (B&I) ecological performances. However, no previous study has evaluated the nexus between BIM and B&I CEs. This study aims to fill this gap by disclosing the research evolution and metrics and key concepts and tools associated with this nexus. A mixed-method design was adopted based on scientometric and scoping reviews of 52 consistent peer-reviewed papers collected from 3 large scientific databases. This study presented six research metrics and revealed that the nexus between BIM and CEs is a contemporary topic that involves seven main research themes. Moreover, it cast light on six key associated concepts: Life Cycle Assessment; Boundary limits; Building Life Cycle CE (BLCCE); Responsible sources for BLCCE; Green and integrated BIM; and sustainable buildings and related rating systems. Furthermore, it identified 56 nexus-related Information and Communication Technologies tools and 17 CE-coefficient databases and discussed their consistency. This study will fill the knowledge gap by providing scholars, practitioners and decision-makers with a good grasp of the nexus between CEs and BIM and paving the path toward further research, strategies and technological solutions to decrease CEs of B&I sectors and their impacts on the climate change.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-12-06
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-05-2022-0086
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Challenges of offsite construction and BIM implementation: providing a
framework for integration in New Zealand-
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Authors: Nazanin Kordestani Ghalenoei, Mostafa Babaeian Jelodar, Daniel Paes, Monty Sutrisna
Abstract: The development of prefabrication into full-scale offsite manufacturing processes in the construction industry is paradigm-shifting. Moreover, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is becoming the primary mode of communication and integration in construction projects to facilitate the flow of information. Although research has been performed on BIM and Offsite Construction (OSC), integrating these two concepts remains ambiguous and complex and lacks documentation and structure, especially in New Zealand. Therefore, this paper develops a robust framework for OSC and BIM integration. The study focusses on identifying integration challenges and proposes strategies for overcoming these challenges. This study applied scientometric analysis, a systematic literature review (SLR) and semi-structured expert interviews to investigate OSC and BIM integration challenges. Multiple themes were investigated and triangulation conducted in this research supports the creation of applicable knowledge in this field. Multiple gaps, research trends and the pioneer countries in the paper's scope have been identified through scientometric analysis. Then, a classified cluster of challenges for OSC and BIM implementation and integration strategies of OSC and BIM were demonstrated from the findings. The interviews provided comprehensive and complementary data sets and analyses. The findings from the Systematic Literature Review and interview structured the integration framework. The contribution of this paper to existing knowledge is a developed framework that serves as a guideline for the OSC stakeholders. This framework can assess OSC's alignment with BIM and consolidate strategies for incorporating OSC into a BIM-based project delivery process. The framework consists of 23 strategies categorised into 8 clusters: a policy document, training and professional development, documentation, technology management, governmental development, contract development, accurate definition and detailing and communication. The proposed strategies will streamline integration by reducing potential challenges, thus enhancing project productivity.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-29
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0139
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Activity recognition from trunk muscle activations for wearable and
non-wearable robot conditions-
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Authors: Nihar Gonsalves, Omobolanle Ruth Ogunseiju, Abiola Abosede Akanmu
Abstract: Recognizing construction workers' activities is critical for on-site performance and safety management. Thus, this study presents the potential of automatically recognizing construction workers' actions from activations of the erector spinae muscles. A lab study was conducted wherein the participants (n = 10) performed rebar task, which involved placing and tying subtasks, with and without a wearable robot (exoskeleton). Trunk muscle activations for both conditions were trained with nine well-established supervised machine learning algorithms. Hold-out validation was carried out, and the performance of the models was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score. Results indicate that classification models performed well for both experimental conditions with support vector machine, achieving the highest accuracy of 83.8% for the “exoskeleton” condition and 74.1% for the “without exoskeleton” condition. The study paves the way for the development of smart wearable robotic technology which can augment itself based on the tasks performed by the construction workers. This study contributes to the research on construction workers' action recognition using trunk muscle activity. Most of the human actions are largely performed with hands, and the advancements in ergonomic research have provided evidence for relationship between trunk muscles and the movements of hands. This relationship has not been explored for action recognition of construction workers, which is a gap in literature that this study attempts to address.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-24
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0130
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Passive variable acoustic technology for classroom reverberation time: a
case study-
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Authors: Megan Burfoot, Ali GhaffarianHoseini, Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini, Nicola Naismith
Abstract: To maximise acoustic comfort in a classroom, the acoustic conditions of the space should be variable. So, the optimal acoustic state also changes when the classroom changes from a study environment into a lecture environment. Passive Variable Acoustic Technology (PVAT) alters a room’s Reverberation Time (RT) by changing the total sound absorption in a room. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the improvements to classroom acoustic comfort when using PVAT. The study is conducted in an existing tertiary classroom at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. The PVAT is prototyped, and the RTs are measured according to international standards before and after classroom installation. The acoustic measurement method used is a cost-effective application tool where pre- and post-conditions are of primary concern. PVAT is found to offer statistically significant improvements in RT, but the key benefits are realised in its’ ability to vary RT for different classroom situations. It is predicted that the RT recommendations for two room types outlined in the acoustic standard AS/NZS 2107:2016 are satisfied when using PVAT in a single classroom space. By optimising RT, the acoustic comfort during both study and lecture is significantly improved. When PVAT is combined with an intelligent system – Intelligent Passive Room Acoustic Technology (IPRAT) – it can detect sound waves in real time to identify the optimal RT. This paper details a pilot case study that works towards quantifying the benefits of IPRAT, by prototyping and testing the PVAT component of the system. A pilot case study outlines the development and test of a variable acoustic prototype in a tertiary classroomA method is adopted to measure acoustic conditions, using three under-researched Android applicationsThe benefits of PVAT are realised in its ability to vary RT by adjusting the prototypes’ sound absorptionBy using PVAT in a single space, the recommended RTs for two room types outlined in the acoustic standard AS/NZS 2107:2016 can be satisfiedThe improvements in acoustic comfort due to PVAT are statistically significant
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-23
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2022-0177
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Towards a circular economy: a knowledge-attitude gap between demand and
supply-side operators on green building construction in Ghana-
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Authors: Florence Dadzoe, Michael Addy, Daniel Yaw Addai Duah, Michael Adesi
Abstract: To be able to achieve the uptake and usage of green buildings requires various actors within the construction value chain to be engaged. Despite its global uptake, green building construction is still at its nascent stage in Ghana. Most studies in sub-Saharan Africa point to the lack of knowledge as one of the mitigating factors against its development. However, there is a dearth of studies assessing the level of knowledge of stakeholders. The terms “knowledge” and “awareness” of green building construction are often used interchangeably in the Ghanaian Construction Industry (GCI). This study seeks to unearth the level of knowledge of stakeholders on green building construction through a comparative analysis of construction professionals and demand-side operators. A structured questionnaire was issued to professionals in the various recognised bodies in the construction industry and public and private institutions in Ghana. Frequency, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, median statistics and Mann–Whitney U-Test were used to rank and analyse the level of knowledge of stakeholders. Construction professionals were more aware of green building construction than the demand-side operators. It was further identified that only a few of these stakeholders had hands-on experience as the majority of them have gained their awareness through research studies. Based on the findings of the study, it was revealed that the concept of green building construction is more abstract to stakeholders than practical despite their positive attitude towards its adoption. Contextually, the study has aided in showing the level of knowledge of stakeholders on green building construction. The findings of the study aside from it aiding policymakers have also helped in identifying the perceptions and attitudes of stakeholders, their strengths and weakness in green building construction. It is recommended that due to the differences in socio-political structures and construction methods, a clear definition of green building based on the availability of resources in the GCI will encourage its adoption. The study used two stakeholder groupings in the GCI as the unit of analysis. This enabled insightful discoveries into the knowledge-attitude gap of Ghanaian stakeholders that are driving the adoption of green building.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-22
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0048
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Implementing enterprise resource planning for lean waste minimisation:
challenges and proposed strategies-
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Authors: W.A. Rasanjali, A.P.K.D. Mendis, B.A.K.S. Perera, Vijitha Disaratna
Abstract: In a conventional sense, information technology has frequently been considered a source of Lean waste management. However, as the corporate world evolves, new models that provide a competitive edge by merging technical breakthroughs with the Lean paradigm must be developed. Enterprise resource planning (ERP), which is such technological advancement, is found to be highly influential for Lean implementation. However, there is a dearth of literature on the adaptability of ERP to minimise Lean waste in the construction industry. This paper, therefore, aims to investigate the possibility of applying ERP to minimise Lean waste in the construction industry. The study used a qualitative approach, consisting of fifteen (15) expert interviews and code-based content analysis was used to analyse the empirical data. The findings revealed the challenges faced when applying ERP with the Lean concept and the strategies that would help overcome the challenges. Most of the challenges could be overcome through training and awareness programmes and proper team management. The study also found that ERP could be applied with Lean to eliminate waste generation in the construction industry. This paper contributes to the theory by providing an evaluation of the possibility of adopting ERP to eliminate Lean waste in the construction industry. The study will contribute to new knowledge related to strategies for proper use of ERP for Lean waste minimisation, which will be useful for future researchers in the area.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-17
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-04-2022-0068
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- State-of-the-art analysis of the integration of augmented reality with
construction technologies to improve construction safety-
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Authors: Hesam Khorrami Shad, Kenneth Tak Wing Yiu, Ruggiero Lovreglio, Zhenan Feng
Abstract: This paper aims to explore augmented reality (AR) applications in construction safety academic literature and propose possible improvements for future scholarly works. The paper explicitly focuses on AR integration with Construction 4.0 technologies as an effective solution to safety concerns in the construction industry. This study applied a systematic review approach. In total, 387 potentially relevant articles from databases were identified. Once filtering criteria were applied, 29 eligible papers where selected. The inclusion criteria were being directly associated with construction safety focused on an AR application and AR interactions associated with the Construction 4.0 technologies. This study investigated the structure of AR applications in construction safety. To this end, the authors studied the safety purposes of AR applications in construction safety: pre-event (intelligent operation, training, safety inspection and hazard alerting), during-event (pinpointing hazard) and post-event (safety estimation) applications. Then, the integration of AR with Construction 4.0 technologies was elaborated. The systematic review also revealed that the AR integration has contributed to developing several technical aspects of AR technology: display, tracking and human–computer interaction. The study results indicate that AR integration with construction is effective in mitigating safety concerns; however, further research studies are required to support this statement. This study contributes to exploring applications and integrations of AR into construction safety in order to facilitate the leverage of this technology. This review can help encourage practitioners and researchers to conduct further academic investigations into AR application in construction safety.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-16
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0151
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Evaluation of smart village strategies and challenges
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Authors: Suresh Renukappa, Subashini Suresh, Wala Abdalla, Nisha Shetty, Nagaraju Yabbati, Rahul Hiremath
Abstract: Rural communities around the world are searching for solutions to upkeep, restore and improve local services that are deteriorating. They are exploring the potential of a digital transition along with the opportunities and threats created by new patterns of mobility and closer links with urban areas. The expansion of information and communication technologies (ICT)-enhanced applications enables rural communities to improve their quality of life. The concept of smart village is primarily about how rural communities make the best use of both ICT and social innovation by responding to the ongoing and emerging challenges. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to investigate strategies for adoption of smart villages along with the challenges faced. A quantitative research methodology was adopted in this research. A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data. In total, 110 fully completed and useable questionnaires were received. Statistical analyses were undertaken using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results indicate that lack of budget, lack of clear strategies for development of sustainable “smart villages”, lack of collaboration between stakeholders and lack of knowledge related to “smart villages” are the most debated challenges for implementing smart village agenda. Whereas smart energy, smart healthcare, smart transport, smart education and smart water are the top five most important smart village strategies. Despite the novel insights provided by this study, it has some limitations. Given that the research reported in this paper is based on literature review and small-scale survey, results presented are only tentative and not generalisable. The findings of this paper are limited to the UK context only. Although generalisability outside of this context may be limited, the authors infer that the results are relevant to other comparable developed countries. Research on smart village development is rare. This paper presents a theoretical basis on the concept of smart villages. It adds to the rich insight that goes into the understanding and awareness of the current smart village strategies along with the key challenges organisations encounter when implementing smart village initiatives. This research has implications towards informing professionals and policymakers on key lessons learnt during the implementation of smart village strategies. Also, this paper contributes to the academic debate on smart village development and provides useful recommendations to both policymakers and practitioners.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-11-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0060
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Development and evaluation of cloud-based virtual reality for design
evaluation: multicriteria comparative analysis-
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Authors: Daluch Sinoeurn, Kriengsak Panuwatwanich
Abstract: The study aims to introduce a cloud-based virtual reality (VR) approach and investigate its applicability and performance in aiding the remote design evaluation process by assessing the clients' convenience perception toward cloud-based VR-aided design evaluation (Cloud-based VR Approach) compared to 3D model-aided design evaluation (3D Model Approach) and rendering images-aided design evaluation (Image Approach). A multicriteria comparative study was conducted with 26 university students using the “analytic hierarchy process” technique to compare the three approaches applied to home finishing material selection tasks based on the five “service convenience” dimensions, consisting of access convenience, decision convenience, transaction convenience, benefit convenience and post-benefit convenience. The results indicated that the “Cloud-based VR Approach” was perceived to be more convenient than the “3D Model Approach” and the “Image Approach” based on the aspects of “decision convenience”, “transaction convenience”, “benefit convenience” and “post-benefit convenience”. The only aspect that the Cloud-based VR Approach was comparatively less convenient than the 3D Model Approach and Image Approach for the user was “access convenience”. Overall, the findings showed that the developed Cloud-based VR Approach had more potential than the conventional approaches in aiding the design evaluation process under ongoing social distancing measures requiring designers and clients to work remotely. The disastrous impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on logistical systems have resulted in massive disruptions to the construction industry worldwide. Various construction activities have been halted and most meetings moved online. Design evaluation conducted between clients and designers is one of the important activities affected by such an impact. Thus, this study presents the Cloud-based VR Approach as an innovative means to maintain essential ongoing activities and meeting of the current design evaluation approach with respect to the social distancing measures.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-10-31
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-05-2022-0091
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Assessing the role of respectable engagement in improving construction
employee’s safety perception-
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Authors: Benjamin Baah, Alex Acheampong, Dickson Osei-Asibey, Aba Essanowa Afful
Abstract: Employee unsafe behaviours and failure to adhere to safety standards resulting from poor safety perception among employees contribute to the high rate of accidents in the construction industry. This study seeks to examine the role of respectable engagement in improving construction workers' safety perceptions in the Ghanaian Construction Industry. The study adopted a quantitative research method where survey questionnaires were administered to respondents. Sixty-six construction workers who were actively involved in ongoing construction projects in Kumasi and Greater Accra regions of Ghana were selected through stratified purposive sampling. The analytical tools utilised in the data analysis include a one-sample t-test, descriptive statistics and mean score ranking. The study identified five key drivers and strategies of respectable engagement from pertinent literature. The findings confirmed that all these drivers and strategies play a key role in improving workers' safety perception. The study further revealed that improving employees' safety perception will enhance and sustain their awareness of the organisation's commitment to health and safety. Employees will therefore portray positive safety behaviour by adhering to the safety standards of their organisation. The findings of this study will contribute to construction site safety improvement by informing contractors, site supervisors and other stakeholders of their role and the need to improve their worker's safety perception. This research is unique in that; it identifies the role of respectable engagement in improving construction workers' safety perception. This research creates awareness among management and site supervisors on the need to be present for their workers, affirm them, attend to their needs, understand and appreciate them, and communicate and listen to them.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-10-25
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-04-2022-0073
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Assessment of X-Salt characterization: a salt-based construction material
using natural adhesives for additive manufacturing-
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Authors: Deena El-Mahdy, Hisham S. Gabr, Sherif Abdelmohsen
Abstract: Despite the dramatic increase in construction toward additive manufacturing, several challenges are faced using natural materials such as Earth and salt compared to the most market-useable materials in 3D printing as concrete which consumes high carbon emission. Characterization and mechanical tests were conducted on 19 samples for three natural binders in dry and wet tests to mimic the additive manufacturing process in order to reach an efficient extrudable and printable mixture that fits the 3D printer. Upon testing compressive strength against grain size, compaction, cohesion, shape, heat and water content, X-Salt was shown to record high compressive strength of 9.5 MPa. This is equivalent to old Karshif and fire bricks and surpasses both rammed Earth and new Karshif. Material flow analysis for X-Salt assessing energy usage showed that only 10% recycled waste was produced by the end of the life cycle compared to salt. Findings are expected to upscale the use of 3D salt printing in on-site and off-site architectural applications. Findings contribute to attempts to resolve challenges related to vernacular architecture using 3D salt printing with sufficient stability. Benefits include recyclability and minimum environmental impact. Social aspects related to technology integration remain however for further research. This paper expands the use of Karshif, a salt-based traditional building material in Egypt's desert by using X-Salt, a salt-base and natural adhesive, and investigating its printability by testing its mechanical properties to reach a cleaner and low-cost sustainable 3D printed mixture.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-10-11
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-05-2022-0097
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Investigating the future of model-based construction in the UK
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Authors: Tara Brooks, Ryan Zantinge, Faris Elghaish
Abstract: Although data rich building information models have been widely adopted in the Architecture Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry in the United Kingdom (UK), use of 2D drawings on site for construction is still the norm. The ability of 2-dimensional (2D) drawings to convey complex 3-dimensional information is limited and requires interpretation from operatives, and 2D drawings can be quickly superseded by model updates. Although constructing directly from a model has been adopted in the aerospace and automotive industries, its use in construction is in its infancy. This research therefore aims to investigate the potential for, and barriers to, model-based construction in the UK. This research uses a qualitative approach, thematically analysing 13 semi-structured interviews with UK-based construction professionals who have experience of paperless or model-based construction. Although model -based construction has been implemented to a limited extent on some civil engineering projects; research and investment in software, network capacity, legal and contractual issues, and cultural and human factors will need to be considered before model-based construction can be implemented more widely. The research contributes to an understudied, emergent area of construction practice and outlines hurdles that need to be understood and overcome before more widespread adoption of model-based construction can take place.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-10-07
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0138
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Construction planning through 4D BIM-based virtual reality for light steel
framing building projects-
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Authors: Ali Rashidi, Wei Yin Yong, Duncan Maxwell, Yihai Fang
Abstract: The construction industry has actively attempted to tackle the low-productivity issues arising from inefficient construction planning. It is imperative to understand how construction practitioners perceive technology integration in construction planning in light of emerging technologies. This study intended to uncover unique experimental findings by integrating 4D-building information modelling (BIM) to virtual reality (VR) technology during construction planning among construction professionals at light steel framing (LSF) projects. The building industry participants were invited to provide inputs on two different construction planning methods: conventional and innovative methods. The conventional method involved the participants using traditional platforms such as 2D computer-aided design (CAD) and physical visualisation of paper-based construction drawings for the LSF assembly process with a Gantt Chart tool to complete construction planning-related tasks for the targeted project. Comparatively, participants are required to perform the same tasks using more innovative platforms like 4D-BIM in a VR environment. A Charrette Test Method was used to validate the findings, highlighting an improvement in usability (+10.3%), accuracy (+89.1%) and speed (+30%) using 4D BIM with VR compared to the conventional paper-based method. The findings are also validated by a paired t-test, which is supported by the rationality of the same findings. This study posits positive results for construction planning through the utilisation of modern practices and technologies. These findings are significant for the global construction industry facing low productivity issues, delays and certainty in terms of building delivery timelines due to poor construction planning. This new blend of technologies—combining 4D BIM and VR in industrialised construction projects—potentially directs future initiatives to drive the efficiency of construction planning in the building lifecycle. The interactive BIM-based virtual environment would purposefully transform construction planning practices in order to deliver modern and more certain building construction methods with a focus on prefabrication processes.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-10-04
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0127
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Digitalisation for whom: the determinants of residents' use of the digital
property address system in Accra, Ghana-
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Authors: Louis Kusi Frimpong, Stephen Leonard Mensah, Seth Asare Okyere, Matthew Abunyewah, Stephen Kofi Diko, Seth Barnie Enning, Joshua Mawutor Attigah
Abstract: There is an emerging digital turn in urban management in Africa, undergirded by efforts to address the challenges of rapid urbanisation. To ensure that this digitalisation agenda contributes to smart and sustainable communities, there is a need to trace residents' use of emerging digital technologies and address any impediments to broader utilisation. To this end, this paper aims to examine the determinants of residents' use of Ghana's digital property address system (DPAS) in suburban communities in Accra. Drawing on a detailed literature review of digital technologies and the factors that affect their use, this paper uses data from a cross-sectional survey of three suburban communities in Accra. A binary logistic regression model was then utilised to identify the significant factors that affect residents' use of the DPAS. The findings showed that socioeconomic, housing, and psychosocial factors were the main determinants of residents' use of the DPAS. Specifically, house ownership, education and expected benefits had a positive relationship with residents' use of the DPAS. Findings highlight the need for urban policymakers to pay attention to systemic issues in Ghana's digital culture to ensure that digitalisation initiatives do not widen the digital divide and thus impede progress towards smart and sustainable urban development goals. The growing scholarship on digitalisation in Africa has emphasised conditions, potentials and challenges in deploying digital technologies with little attention to the determinants of residents' use of these technologies. This paper contributes to filling this knowledge gap by bringing foundational issues critical to engendering equitable digitalisation agenda in Ghanaian cities and beyond.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-27
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0121
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) in architectural design
meetings: from a case study to knowledge-to-action framework-
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Authors: Vikrom Laovisutthichai, Weisheng Lu
Abstract: Design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) challenges architects in managing diverse knowledge across different professional domains. Little research, if any, has documented DfMA as a knowledge-intensive activity happening in real-life cases. This research aims to investigate DfMA knowledge acquisition, sharing and implementation in real-life practice and develop DfMA knowledge-to-action framework for architects. It does so by (1) conducting observations in design meetings, documentary analysis and interviews, (2) thematic analysis through knowledge management (KM) perspectives and (3) based on this profound understanding, enriching the prior understanding of design as a double diamond process. Through the lens of KM, DfMA is not merely a double but multiple diamond process, involving the iteration of making absenting interdisciplinary knowledge available, deciphering tacit knowledge explicit and embedding the knowledge in a design that well considers various criteria, the downstream manufacturing, logistics and assembly in particular. To execute multi-faceted knowledge acquisitions and implementations in DfMA, architects should balance their roles as humble learners, team coordinators, creative leaders and democratic negotiators. This research reveals the DfMA implementation process, activities and dilemmas from real-world design meetings. The DfMA knowledge-to-action framework developed in this study, along with practice examples and lessons learned, can facilitate architects to play new roles. Future research is recommended to fine-tune the framework by having other stakeholders’ perspectives, refining it with additional cases and developing assistive tools for designers based on the framework.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-20
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0136
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Embracing BIM in its totality: a Total BIM case study
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Oliver Disney, Mattias Roupé, Mikael Johansson, Alessio Domenico Leto
Abstract: Building information modeling (BIM) is mostly limited to the design phase where two parallel processes exist, i.e. creating 2D-drawings and BIM. Towards the end of the design process, BIM becomes obsolete as focus shifts to producing static 2D-drawings, which leads to a lack of trust in BIM. In Scandinavia, a concept known as Total BIM has emerged, which is a novel “all-in” approach where BIM is the single source of information throughout the project. This paper's purpose is to investigate the overall concept and holistic approach of a Total BIM project to support implementation and strategy work connected to BIM. Qualitative data were collected through eight semi-structured interviews with digitalization leaders from the case study project. Findings were analyzed using a holistic framework to BIM implementation. The Total BIM concept was contingent on the strong interdependences between commonly found isolated BIM uses. Four main success factors were identified, production-oriented BIM as the main contractual and legally binding construction document, cloud-based model management, user-friendly on-site mobile BIM software and strong leadership. A unique case is studied where BIM is used throughout all project phases as a single source of information and communication platform. No 2D paper drawings were used on-site and the Total BIM case study highlights the importance of a new digitalized construction process.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-13
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0124
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- The uptake of City Information Modelling (CIM): a comprehensive review of
current implementations, challenges and future outlook-
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Authors: Hossein Omrany, Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini, Ali Ghaffarianhoseini, Derek John Clements-Croome
Abstract: This paper critically analysed 195 articles with the objectives of providing a clear understanding of the current City Information Modelling (CIM) implementations, identifying the main challenges hampering the uptake of CIM and providing recommendations for the future development of CIM. This paper adopts the PRISMA method in order to perform the systematic literature review. The results identified nine domains of CIM implementation including (1) natural disaster management, (2) urban building energy modelling, (3) urban facility management, (4) urban infrastructure management, (5) land administration systems, (6) improvement of urban microclimates, (7) development of digital twin and smart cities, (8) improvement of social engagement and (9) urban landscaping design. Further, eight challenges were identified that hinder the widespread employment of CIM including (1) reluctance towards CIM application, (2) data quality, (3) computing resources and storage inefficiency, (4) data integration between BIM and GIS and interoperability, (5) establishing a standardised workflow for CIM implementation, (6) synergy between all parties involved, (7) cybersecurity and intellectual property and (8) data management. This is the first paper of its kind that provides a holistic understanding of the current implementation of CIM. The outcomes will benefit multiple target groups. First, urban planners and designers will be supplied with a status-quo understanding of CIM implementations. Second, this research introduces possibilities of CIM deployment for the governance of cities; hence the outcomes can be useful for policymakers. Lastly, the scientific community can use the findings of this study as a reference point to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field and contribute to the future development of CIM.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0116
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- A VR training scenario editor for operation in construction based on BIM
4D and domain expert authoring-
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Authors: Barbara Schiavi, Vincent Havard, Karim Beddiar, David Baudry
Abstract: Virtual Reality (VR) based training is an efficient and promising digital tool. In the construction industry, studies have been conducted on the realisation of VR scenarios for construction operations, but the challenges lie in procedural scenario creation based on the knowledge and digital data of the construction project. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue. A new system and interface allowing an automatic generation of a VR scenario for operating procedure (OP) based on 4D Building Information Modelling (BIM) and tasks authoring by the domain experts are presented. The first process, Automatic Scenario Generation, generates assembly tasks based on the BIM metadata. The second process, Expert Scene and Scenario Authoring, allows adding tasks that cannot be modeled in the BIM OP. With the 4D BIM methodology, the 3D model of building as well as the 3D OPs contain a time dimension representing the construction phases or planning. The evolution in time of the construction site and the tools and procedures adapted to each construction project must be integrated in the VR simulations. Moreover, domain experts should have control over the scenario and should be able to author tasks assigned to the operator in training. A Unified Modeling Language based framework allows the reuse of BIM metadata to create the scene, VR interactions and the assembly procedure; the assembly procedure is embedded in the virtual environment considering the time (4D) in the construction of the building and is used as a training scenario for the operator; and the training scenario can be refined by adding operational knowledge, such as quality.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0125
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- A quantitative, evidence-based analysis of correlations between lean
construction and building information modelling-
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Authors: Yusuf Arayici, Onur Behzat Tokdemir, Mohamad Kassem
Abstract: This research aims to identify and measure the correlations between building information modelling (BIM) and lean construction (LC) principles at the design and construction phases. The study investigates BIM-LC principles correlations using the Istanbul Grant Airport (IGA) as a case study. The Delphi technique, performed quantitatively, contributes to the identification and quantification of a set of correlations between 11 selected BIM uses and 13 LC principles, which are supported with practical examples from the case study. Together, the two research methods provide an evidence-based approach to understand the correlations between BIM and LC. The correlation analysis results in 46 correlations, and the correlations between the LC principles and BIM uses are intensified with the LC principles. A quantitative understanding BIM use and LC principles correlations and appreciation of their specific uses can guide the practical implementation of BIM and LC, especially in large and mega projects. BIM and LC practices represent approaches to improve performance in construction projects. While BIM has both information technology (IT) and process perspectives, the LC approach is mainly a process and product-oriented philosophy for project efficiency, effectiveness and the elimination of non-value-adding activities and waste. Many studies have investigated how the two approaches complement each other and concluded that their combined implementation in projects can improve efficiency and effectiveness. However, to date an analytical and granular investigation identifying and measuring correlations between BIM and LC based on empirical data is lacking. This paper fills that gap with an evidence-based analysis of the tightness of coupling and correlations between BIM uses and LC principles.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-06
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0052
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Industry 4.0 and the circular economy: using design-stage digital
technology to reduce construction waste-
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Authors: Anuja Talla, Stephen McIlwaine
Abstract: This study examines how applying innovative I4.0 technologies at the design stage can help reduce construction waste and improve the recovery, reuse, and recycling of construction materials. The study adopts a three-stage sequential mixed methods approach, involving a thorough review of current literature, interviews with six experts in digital construction, and a survey of 75 experienced industry practitioners. The study identifies and discusses how ten specific digital technologies can improve design stage processes leading to improved circularity in construction, namely, (1) additive and robotic manufacturing; (2) artificial intelligence; (3) big data analytics; (4) blockchain technology; (5) building information modelling; (6) digital platforms; (7) digital twins; (8) geographic information systems; (9) material passports and databases; and (10) Internet of things. It demonstrates that by using these technologies to support circular design concepts within the sector, material recycling rates can be improved and unnecessary construction waste reduced. This research provides researchers and practitioners with improved understanding of the potential of digital technology to recycle construction waste at the design stage, and may be used to create an implementation roadmap to assist designers in finding tools and identifying them. Little consideration has been given to how digital technology can support design stage measures to reduce construction waste. This study fills a gap in knowledge of a fast-moving topic.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-01
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0050
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Applications of augmented reality for construction productivity
improvement: a systematic review
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Oluseyi Julius Adebowale, Justus Ngala Agumba
Abstract: Despite the significance of the construction industry to the nation's economic growth, there is empirical evidence that the sector is lagging behind other industries in terms of productivity growth. The need for improvements inspired the industry's stakeholders to consider using emerging technologies that support the enhancement. This research aims to report augmented reality applications essential for contractors' productivity improvement. This study systematically reviewed academic journals. The selection of journal articles entailed searching Scopus and Web of Science databases. Relevant articles for reviews were identified and screened. Content analysis was used to classify key applications into six categories. The research results were limited to journal articles published between 2010 and 2021. Augmented reality can improve construction productivity through its applications in assembly, training and education, monitoring and controlling, interdisciplinary function, health and safety and design information. The research provides a direction for contractors on key augmented reality applications they can leverage to improve their organisations' productivity.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-09-01
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0128
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Intelligent passive room acoustic technology to satisfy acoustic
design standards in classrooms-
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Authors: Megan Burfoot, Nicola Naismith, Ali GhaffarianHoseini, Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini
Abstract: Informed by acoustic design standards, the built environments are designed with single reverberation times (RTs), a trade-off between long and short RTs needed for different space functions. The novel intelligent passive room acoustic technology (IPRAT) has the potential to revolutionise room acoustics, thus, it is imperative to analyse and quantify its effect. IPRAT achieves real-time room acoustic improvement by integrating passive variable acoustic technology (PVAT) and acoustic scene classification (ASC). This paper aims to compare IPRAT simulation results with the AS/NZS 2107:2016 Australian/New Zealand recommended design acoustic standards. In this paper 20 classroom environments are virtually configured for the simulation, multiplying 5 classrooms with 4 aural situations typical to New Zealand classrooms. The acoustic parameters RT, sound clarity (C50) and sound strength (G) are considered and analysed in the simulation. These parameters can be used to determine the effects of improved acoustics for both teacher vocal relief and student comprehension. The IPRAT was assumed to vary RT and was represented in the simulation by six different absorption coefficient spectrums. The optimised acoustic parameters were derived from relationships between C50, RT and G. These relationships and optimal RTs contribute a unique database to literature. IPRAT’s advantages were discerned from a comparison of “current,” “attainable” and “optimised” acoustic parameters. By quantifying the effect of IPRAT, it is understood that IPRAT has the potential to satisfy the key recommendations of professional industry standards (for New Zealand namely; AS/NZS 2107:2016 recommended design acoustic standards).
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-30
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2022-0106
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Development of 3D printers for concrete structures: mix proportion design
approach and laboratory testing-
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Authors: Loan Thi Pham, Thu Nguyen, Thanh Trinh, Anh Nguyen, Quang Do, Bien Bui, Jianzhuang Xiao
Abstract: This study deals with three major topics: (1) the developed generations of 3D concrete printers, (2) the mix design approach for cement-based materials and (3) laboratory testing. The big question is how to approach and follow the trend of 3D concrete printing technology with limited conditions such as printers, technology issues and budget. Therefore, this research focused on dealing with prominent issues, including printing equipment, mixed proportion design approaches and laboratory testing methods will be presented and analyzed. The details of three printing equipment, including a printhead, a small-scale 3D printer, a 3D concrete printer and the printing process related to Simplify and Mach3 software, will be revealed. Secondly, the classification and efficient process will be given according to the mixture proportion design method proposed. Thirdly, laboratory testing will be conducted, including extrudability, buildability and printability. Finally, some highlight conclusions are given based on the appearance and quality of the samples printed. Research has been carried out with cement-based materials and 3D concrete printer which adopted the screw extruders. Mix design proportion method via coefficient and slump value proposed by the authors is a relatively effective and convenient method; the rheological properties, printing process and geometry of a sample are the most significant factors that decide the success of the printing work. Additive manufacturing, widely known as 3D printing, has recently drawn the attention of researchers worldwide for a few decades. Thanks to its capability to transform a drawing into an object, the idea of 3D printing has also attracted the attention of engineers, architects and investors. (1) Mix design proportion via coefficient and slump value proposed by the authors is a relatively effective and convenient method that can be implemented simply at the laboratory or the site. (2) The ranges of coefficients by weight of the water, sand and PP fibers to binder are (0.27–0.3), (0.6–1.0) and around 0.3, respectively. The maximum sand size was smaller than 2.5 mm, and the small amount of PP fibers enhanced the quality and significantly reduced the printed samples' shrinkage. (3) The printability is affected by mix proportion and the relationship between nozzle printing speed parameter and extrusion speed of motor turning. (4) The chosen layer height recommended smaller than 0.83 times nozzle diameter is reasonable and improves adhesions and buildability. (5) The printing open time of the concrete mixture of (12–15) minutes is a barrel to promote 3D concrete printing technology and needs improvement.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-30
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2022-0137
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- PESTEL analysis of mental health management of project management
practitioners (PMPs) in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC)
project organization-
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Authors: Bashir Tijani, Xiao-Hua Jin, Robert Osei-Kyei
Abstract: Architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) project organizations are under constant pressure to improve the mental health of project management practitioners (PMPs) due to complexity and dynamism involved in project management practices. Drawing on institutional theory, this research explores how external environmental factors, political factors, economic factors, social factors, technological factors, environmental factors and legal factors (PESTEL), influence mental health management indicators that contribute to positive mental health. Purposive sampling method was used to collect survey data from 82 PMPs in 60 AEC firms in Australia. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses based on 82 items of data collected from PMPs. Overall, this study revealed interesting findings on the impact of external environmental factors on mental health. The hypothesized positive association between political factors and mental health management indicators was rejected. The data supported the proposed hypothetical correlation between economic factors and mental health management indicators and the influence of social factors on mental health management indicators. Moreover, a hypothetical relationship between technological factors and mental health management indicators was supported. The significant positive impact of environmental factors on mental health management indicators proposed was supported, and legal factors’ positive correlation on mental health management indicators was also supported. Despite the limitations, the present findings suggest that all the external environment factors except political factors shape mental health management outcomes.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-22
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-04-2022-0074
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Blockchain technology: a catalyst for reverse logistics
of the automobile industry-
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Authors: Karthik Bajar, Aditya Kamat, Saket Shanker, Akhilesh Barve
Abstract: In recent times, reverse logistics (RL) is gaining significant traction in various automobile industries to recapture returned vehicles’ value. A good RL program can lower manufacturing costs, establish a green supply chain, enhance customer satisfaction and provide a competitive advantage. However, reducing disruptions and increasing operational efficiency in the automobile RL requires implementing innovative technology to improve information flow and security. Thus, this manuscript aims to examine the hurdles in automobile RL activities and how they can be effectively tackled by blockchain technology (BCT). Merging BCT and RL provides the entire automobile industry a chance to generate value for its consumers through effective vehicle return policies, manufacturing cost reduction, maintenance records tracking, administration of vehicle information and a clear payment record of insurance contracts. This research is presented in three stages to accomplish the task. First, previous literature and experts' opinions are examined to highlight certain factors that are an aggravation to BCT implementation. Next, this study proposed an interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set (IVIFS) – decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) with Choquet integral framework for computing and analyzing the comparative results of factor interrelationships. Finally, the causal outline diagrams are plotted to determine the influence of factors on one another for BCT implementation in automobile RL. This study has categorized the barriers to BCT implementation into five major factors – operational and strategical, technical, knowledge and behavioral, financial and infrastructural, and government rules and regulations. The results revealed that disreputable technology, low-bearing capacity of IT systems and operational inefficiency are the most significant factors to be dealt with by automobile industry professionals for finer and enhanced RL processes utilizing BCT. The most noticeable advantage of BCT is its enormous amount of data, permitting automobile RL to develop client experience through real-time data insights. This study reveals several factors that are hindering the implementation of BCT in RL activities of the automobile industry. The results can assist experts and policymakers improve their existing decision-making systems while making an effort to implement BCT into the automobile industry's RL activities. Although there are several studies on the benefits of BCT in RL and the adoption of BCT in the automobile industry, individually, none have explicated the use of BCT in automobile RL. This is also the first kind of study that has used IVIFS-DEMATEL with the Choquet integral framework for computing and analyzing the comparative results of factor interrelationships hindering BCT implementation in automobile RL activities.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-19
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2021-0203
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Enhancing BIM competencies of built environment undergraduates students
using a problem-based learning and network analysis approach-
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Authors: Lovelin Ifeoma Obi, Temitope Omotayo, Damilola Ekundayo, Abiodun Kolawole Oyetunji
Abstract: Building information modelling (BIM) is an innovative, collaborative process underpinned by digital technologies introduced to improve project performance in the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). Growth in industry demands has necessitated BIM inclusion into the higher education (HE) curricula as both a pedagogic and practical objective to prepare and develop aspiring built environment (BE) professionals with the required competence for contemporary practice. However, comprehension of BIM concepts and subsequent development of the skill set required for its application remains overwhelming for students. In mitigating this challenge, adopting appropriate learner-centred strategies has been advocated. Problem-based learning (PBL) is becoming a widespread strategy to address concerns associated with authentic practices. This paper evaluates the impact of the PBL strategy on students' accelerated learning of BIM based on a case study of 53 undergraduate students in a BIM module. The network analysis and centrality measures were employed in understudying the most applicable BIM skills. From the analyses, PBL benefits students' knowledge acquisition (cognitive and affective) of BIM concept and development of transferable skills (academic and disciplinary), equipping them with capabilities to become BIM competent and workplace ready for the AEC industry. The BIM pedagogy evolves, and new skillsets emerge. Analytical, communications and collaboration skills remain sacrosanct to delivering BIM modules. These skills mentioned above are essential in getting undergraduate students ready to apply BIM in the AEC sector.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-05-2022-0085
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Blockchain integration into electronic document management (EDM) system in
construction common data environment-
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Authors: Mee San Kiu, Kai Wen Lai, Fah Choy Chia, Phui Fung Wong
Abstract: The digitization of electronic document management (EDM) in the construction industry has become more common in nature with the evolution of technology. However, there are still some limitations in EDM in the common data environment which can be improved with the integration of blockchain technology. The purpose of this paper is to identify the limitations of the current EDM system in the construction industry, to determine the potential of blockchain in improving the EDM system in the construction industry and challenges towards blockchain-based EDM. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine (9) respondents with background from the construction industry and blockchain expertise. Content analysis was used to analyze the primary data. Current EDM system in the construction industry possessed limitations such as system maturity, high cost, slow adoption of technology and security concerns. Blockchain is able to make improvements in the current EDM system in terms of data integrity, data tracking, data immutability, data security, data trustability, and data accountability. Several challenges such as costs, blockchain scalability and industry knowledge, industry culture and hardware need to overcome prior blockchain-based EDM systems can be widely applied in the construction industry. The research findings provide insight on future EDM in the construction industry and aids future research in this field.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2021-0231
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Barriers impeding circular economy (CE) uptake in the construction
industry-
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Authors: Safowaa Osei-Tutu, Joshua Ayarkwa, Dickson Osei-Asibey, Gabriel Nani, Aba Essanowa Afful
Abstract: This study aimed to identify barriers impeding circular economy (CE) uptake in the construction industry in literature, categorize them for the development of a framework and to seek the interrelationships among the categorized barriers. This allowed for identifying integrated solutions to holistically address the barriers. The study also sought to identify the “hot” themes, the knowledge gaps and future research directions on barriers impeding CE. Forty-eight relevant articles were desk reviewed from different construction peer-reviewed journals and published conference papers. A scientometric analysis allowed for co-occurrence of keywords relating to CE. A content analysis enabled the identification of 79 barriers impeding the uptake of CE in the construction industry which were further categorized into six distinct categories for the development of a framework showing the interrelationships among the categorized barriers. The identified barriers include construction sector inertia, lack of design standards, lack of knowledge, awareness and understanding, design cost, and perception of second-hand materials as substandard among others. The study categorized the identified barriers for better understanding into six different groups: cultural barriers, social barriers, environmental barriers, economic barriers, technical barriers and technological barriers. Strategies to address the barriers were also proposed. The interrelationships among the various barriers were also shown in a proposed framework to educate professionals on the interconnectivity of the barriers. Categorization of the various barriers impeding CE uptake contributes to the body of knowledge. Also, the interrelationships among the various categorized barriers in the framework will enable construction professionals make informed decisions regarding the successful integration of CE in the industry, better appreciate the barriers that impede CE uptake and apply strategies to holistically address the barriers. This will expand current knowledge outside the narrow scope of isolated barriers. To the global construction industry, the review presents a list of barriers and their interrelationships that could provide implementation strategies for the uptake of CE in the industry. The geographical scope of this study is not limited, and therefore encourages wide applicability of the findings to the global construction industry.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-08-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0049
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Driving factors for lean-BIM implementation in Malaysia’s construction
industry: qualitative interview-based study-
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Authors: Nur Mardhiyah Aziz, Nurshuhada Zainon
Abstract: The synergy of lean construction and building information modelling (BIM) is an important change and transformation driver in the construction industry. It adds value and increases the productivity of construction processes. However, the implementation of lean-BIM in Malaysia is still lacking despite the accelerating BIM adoption rate. This study, therefore, aims to explore factors that potentially drive construction players to adopt lean-BIM for construction projects. Exploratory interviews were conducted with five construction players knowledgeable in lean and BIM to identify the driving factors for them to implement lean-BIM. Respondents were obtained through the snowball sampling technique, initiated by approaching a government agency that oversees Malaysia's construction industry. Findings were then analysed using thematic analysis. Findings have shown that four driving factors for construction players initiating the use of lean-BIM in construction projects are (1) top management support, (2) standardisation (3) comprehensive training and (4) financial support. Due to the exploratory nature of this study and the chosen research design, the conclusions cannot be generalised but can become the indicators for lean-BIM future works in Malaysia or any other developing countries. The insights from this study provide preliminary indicators for driving the adoption of lean-BIM. This discovery may also help construction companies and policymakers plan appropriate initiatives or strategies to present the need for lean-BIM further development in Malaysia. The findings are expected to contribute to the lean-BIM research in terms of the demographic context, particularly in Malaysia and possibly assist lean and BIM researchers, practitioners and policymakers in developing countries' perspective.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-07-12
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-01-2022-0019
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Verification and validation of a framework for collaborative BIM
implementation, measurement and management (CIMM)-
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Authors: Andrew Pidgeon, Nashwan Dawood
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to develop through a two-stage verification and validation process a novel implementation framework for collaborative BIM, utilising experts from academia and industry as well as a real-world case study project. The aim of this research was to build upon previous research findings by the authors in order to develop an implementation framework that stems from ousting the inefficiencies of current collaborative BIM practices. This is achieved by a more objectified and quantified approach towards seeking heightened transparency and objectivism of what is required through the implementation of BIM. The mixed research methods technique of both qualitative and quantitative data collection was utilised, with the structure consisting of a two-stage approach utilising the Delphi model for verification and validation. This was developed to test the novelty and beneficial structure hypothesis involving 15 core BIM experts from academia, construction and design with c. 22 years average experience. Validation was undertaken on a complex, high value real world building structures project in central London, inclusive of 8 core project BIM experts. The research utilised a developed solution that mirrored and provided a more holistic representation guiding the practitioners as a project team step by step through the determination of underpinning elements, which support the goal of enhanced information requirements as well as executing the prioritisation measurement tools as part of the framework. Data ascertained at the workshop case study prioritised areas of importance that are core in supporting the delivering of these enhanced information requirements at a project delivery level, which were in order of prioritisation determined by the project team (1) constraints (39.17%), (2) stakeholder requirements (35.78%), (3) coordination (existing asset) (15.86%), (4) exchange requirements (5.38%) and (5) level of information need (3.81%). Furthermore, risk mitigations for the top three priorities were focussed on early stakeholder engagement, appropriation of survey data collection, focus on quality of outputs and applying toolsets and processes with meaning and emphasis on the defined high-level requirements. Findings show that the framework and the developed solution translate the process methodology of the framework schema into a useable and beneficial tool that provides both qualitative and quantitative inputs and outputs. Furthermore, a collective agreement on the objectives, risk mitigations and assignment of tasks in order to achieve outcomes is presented, with evidence on numerical weightings and goal achievement. Due to the impacts of COVID-19 on physical engagements both the verification (electronic survey questionnaire) and validation (case study project) were undertaken remotely, using available technologies and web interfaces. The case study workshop was limited to one building structures project in central London of a value of c. £70 m design and build cost that the project team (participants) were actively engaged with. The social impacts of this research has resulted in the review of existing systems, methods and approaches from a wider perspective of theoretical and applied environments, which led to the development of a novel approach and framework guided by an interactive and useable solution. As shown within the core findings, experts across academia and industry (design and construction) confirmed that the framework methodology and application were 100% novel, and added a benefit to the existing collaborative BIM approach. Value added is that through objectifying, weighting/prioritizing and creating a discussion supported by qualitative and quantitative reasoning the focus on what collaborative BIM is to achieve is increased, and thus the likelihood of successful implementation.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-06-17
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-03-2022-0051
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Management of external stakeholders' influences in donor-funded
irrigation infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka-
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Authors: U.D.R.E. Ruwanpura, B.A.K.S. Perera
Abstract: Accelerating the influences of external stakeholders in any construction project is inevitable. Studies on external stakeholder influence on construction projects and literature on external stakeholder management in irrigation infrastructure projects executed with donor funds are scarce. Thus, this study aimed to investigate how to manage the external stakeholders' influence on donor-funded irrigation infrastructure projects effectively. A mixed approach consisting of 17 semi-structured interviews and two rounds of questionnaire surveys was adopted to rank the following: the types of external stakeholders who can significantly influence irrigation infrastructure projects, significant influencing strategies used by those stakeholders, and significant strategies that can be adopted to manage external stakeholder influence on the projects. In total, 12 of external stakeholders who can significantly influence irrigation infrastructure projects were identified; 17 significant influencing strategies used by external project stakeholders and 22 significant strategies used to manage external stakeholder influence on the projects were identified. The influencing/management strategies specific to each external stakeholder type and those that are common to all external stakeholder types were identified separately. The grievance redress mechanism should be activated for managing external stakeholder influence on donor-funded irrigation infrastructure projects. This study contributes to theory by identifying significant strategies that can be used to manage external stakeholder influence on donor-funded irrigation infrastructure projects during the planning and design stages. The study will help project teams to handle external stakeholder influence on the projects successfully, accomplish project objectives, and make maximum utilization of the donor funds received.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-05-31
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2021-0235
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Integrating disaster resilience into green rating systems –
a modification of the Sri Lankan green building rating tool-
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Authors: Sonali Abeysinghe, Chandula Jithmi De Zoysa, Chandana Siriwardana, Chaminda Bandara, Ranjith Dissanayake
Abstract: The purpose of the study is to mainstream the disaster risk reduction (DRR) and disaster resilience measures into the GreenSL® building rating system in Sri Lanka to demonstrate a more holistic approach in achieving sustainability with resilience. First, a comprehensive literature review was carried out on green building practices and rating tools, natural hazards and DRR and global and local frameworks. Next, criteria were developed incorporating the disaster resilience aspects through eight expert committee meetings and included the rating tool in three levels. Finally, 11 green-certified buildings from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka were reevaluated using the new disaster resilient GREENSL® rating system for built environment as a validation for the new tool and to analyze the new certification levels. All the green-certified buildings in hazard-prone areas dropped their certification by one level while the buildings in nonhazard-prone areas remained in the certification after being evaluated by the new DRR-incorporated rating system, which recommends the use of new tool for the buildings in hazard-prone areas. But due to the rapid changes in climate and the unpredictable trends of natural hazards, the use of new DRR incorporated GREENSL® rating system for built environment for the certification of buildings is highly endorsed. This is the first research study based on the GREENSL rating system. And it is the first effort to incorporate DRR aspects to any rating tool in Sri Lanka. The projects that were evaluated for the validation of the new tool are the actual projects which obtained green building certification. Also, it is apparent that this study has gone some way towards enhancing the understanding of blending the sustainability and resilience in rating systems for built environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-05-09
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2021-0182
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Virtual reality utility and usefulness in the furniture, fixture and
equipment sector: a validation of interactive and distributed immersion-
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Authors: Abhinesh Prabhakaran, Abdul-Majeed Mahamadu, Lamine Mahdjoubi, Colin Booth, Clinton Aigbavboa
Abstract: The Furniture, Fixture and Equipment (FFE) sector is well placed to leverage virtual reality (VR) technology for competitive and operational advantages; however, the diffusion of VR applications in this sector has followed a steep curve. This study reports on the implementation of two novel VR applications in the FFE sector and also investigates the challenges and benefits associated with their use and adaptability. A sequential exploratory mixed research methodology consisting of three phases was adopted for this study. This included identification of factors that affect/facilitate the implementation of VR (Challenges and Benefits) using experiments during in-house prototyping of VR applications, a rigorous literature review and questionnaire survey to solicit FFE Stakeholder's (n = 117) opinion on the utility and usefulness of the proposed applications and to the understand factors that facilitate and inhibit their implementation in FFE's context, particularly as a design communication and coordination tool. The findings of this study revealed that distributed and single-user VR has become essential to digitalising the FFE sector's design communication with improved design communication being regarded as the most important benefit of its use. Conversely, the most critical challenge that inhibits the implementation of these two VR applications in the FFE sector is the perceived cost. This study provides valuable insight to FFE's stakeholders to devise action plans to mitigate myriad complex and interrelated factors that affect the adoption of virtual reality technology in the FFE sector that are otherwise very hard to understand, and the consequential implementation of any mitigation plans cannot be devised.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-26
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-02-2022-0038
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- A critical review of public–private partnerships in the COVID-19
pandemic: key themes and future research agenda-
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Authors: Isaac Akomea-Frimpong, Xiaohua Jin, Robert Osei-Kyei, Roksana Jahan Tumpa
Abstract: Undoubtedly, coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has released unprecedented disruptions and health crisis on people and activities everywhere. The impacts extend to public–private partnership (PPP) arrangements in the construction industry. Concomitantly, PPP pacts are contributing to combat the pandemic. However, literature on the PPP concept in the COVID-19 era remain under-researched. This study aims to review the current literature on PPPs in the COVID-19 pandemic and present the key themes, research gaps and future research directions. In this study, 29 highly relevant literature were sourced from Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed search engines within the systematic literature review (SLR) methodology. With the aid of qualitative content analysis, the 29 articles were critically analysed leading to the extraction of hot research themes on PPPs in the coronavirus pandemic. The results of the SLR produced eight themes such as major changes in PPP contracts, development of the COVID-19 vaccines, economic recession, facemasks and testing kits, governance and sustainability of PPPs. In addition, the study reveals seven research gaps that need further investigations among the scientific research community on mental health and post-pandemic recovery plans. The articles selected for this review were limited to only peer-reviewed journal papers written in English excluding conference papers. This restriction may have taken out some relevant literature but they had insignificant impact on the overall outcome of this research. To improve the understanding of practitioners in the construction industry on key issues on PPPs in the COVID-19 pandemic, the study provides them a checklist of relevant themes. As a novel literature review relating PPPs to the coronavirus, it sets the foundation for further research and contributes to practical measures to control the virus.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-19
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-01-2022-0009
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Measurement and sonification of construction site noise and particle
pollution data
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Niklas Rönnberg, Rasmus Ringdahl, Anna Fredriksson
Abstract: The noise and dust particles caused by the construction transport are by most stakeholders experienced as disturbing. The purpose of this study is to explore how sonification can support visualization in construction planning to decrease construction transport disturbances. This paper presents an interdisciplinary research project, combining research on construction logistics, internet of things and sonification. First, a data recording device, including sound, particle, temperature and humidity sensors, was implemented and deployed in a development project. Second, the collected data were used in a sonification design, which was, third, evaluated with potential users. The results showed that the low-cost sensors used could capture “good enough” data, and that the use of sonification for representing these data is interesting and a possible useful tool in urban and construction transport planning. There is a need to further evolve the sonification design and better communicate the aim of the sounds used to potential users. Further testing is also needed. This study introduces new ideas of how to support visualization with sonification planning the construction work and its impact on the vicinity of the site. Currently, urban planning and construction planning focus on visualizing the final result, with little focus on how to handle disturbances during the construction process. Showing the potentials of using low-cost sensor data in sonification, and using sonification together with visualization, is the result of a novel interdisciplinary research area combination.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-19
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2021-0189
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Integrating augmented reality technologies into architectural education:
application to the course of landscape design at Port Said University-
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Authors: Heba Adel Ahmed Hussein
Abstract: This study examines the benefits and potential applications of integrating augmented reality (AR) technology into landscape design education to create a more rewarding educational environment that provides an interesting learning atmosphere and deepens students' knowledge of the landscape design process. Experimental method was conducted on the fourth-year architecture students at Port Said University. The experiment went through the following steps: a mobile-based AR application was designed, some exercises were developed and the students performed them using the application, and a questionnaire was formulated and distributed to the students to examine their feedback on integrating AR into the course. The success of the experiment was evaluated based on the students' progress, tracked by the instructor, in the exercises and their feedback acquired from the questionnaire. The study found that the integration of AR with traditional teaching methods is perceived as being useful and having a positive impact on landscape design education. Lessons learned from this study can help architectural educators in planning to use AR in their curricula to enrich architectural education.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2021-0132
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Toward digital construction supply chain-based Industry 4.0 solutions:
scientometric-thematic analysis-
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Authors: Lina Gharaibeh, Kristina Maria Eriksson, Bjorn Lantz, Sandra Matarneh, Faris Elghaish
Abstract: The wood construction industry has been described as slow in adapting efficiency-increasing activities in its operations and supply chain. The industry is still facing challenges related to digitalization, such as fragmentation, poor traceability and lack of real-time information. This study evaluates the status of digitalization in construction supply chains by thematically analyzing the existing literature and mapping research trends. A review of the key literature from 2016 to 2021 was performed. The results highlight various technologies and their applications within supply chains and identify research gaps, especially between theoretical frameworks and actual implementation using a scientometric-thematic analysis. This paper provides a conceptual framework to further aid researchers in exploring the current trends in Supply Chain 4.0 and its applications in the wood construction industry compared to other more advanced industries. Suggested directions for future research in the wood construction Supply Chain 4.0 are outlined. The existing literature still lacks a comprehensive review of the potential of a digitalized supply chain, especially in the construction industry. This framework is pivotal to continue explaining and observing the best ways to accelerate and implement Supply Chain 4.0 practices for digitalized supply chain management (SCM) while focusing specifically on the wood construction industry. The literature review results will help develop a comprehensive framework for future research direction to create a clearer vision of the current state of digitalization in supply chains and focus on the wood construction supply chain, thus, fully achieving the benefits of Supply Chain 4.0 in the wood construction industry.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-15
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-12-2021-0224
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Developing a collaborative framework for construction projects in emerging
economies-
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Authors: Hazhar Faris, Mark Gaterell, David Hutchinson
Abstract: The construction industry is a primary contributor to the development of emerging economies such as the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. However, the sector is underperforming, and products are not meeting expectations. A lack of collaboration is considered a significant contributor to these issues. Various researchers have identified factors to improve collaborative approaches. However, there is still a lack of clear frameworks to help implement collaboration in the construction industry, especially in emerging economies. Therefore, this study aims to develop a framework to implement collaboration in the construction industry. This article utilises a review of literature, questionnaire and interviews with experts in the construction industry in order to develop a framework to achieve collaboration in construction projects. The research presents a framework that distributes the factors of collaboration over the project lifecycle stages in accordance with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work 2007. Each factor is divided into a set of enabling conditions which must be satisfied to ensure that the given specific factors are delivered. Additionally, the framework suggests appointing a collaboration champion at the beginning of the project to manage the process. The research contributes to scarce literature about collaboration practices in the Kurdistan Region and in emerging economies in general.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-02-28
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2021-0186
Issue No: Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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- Assessing annual thermal comfort extent in central courtyards: Baghdad as
a case study-
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Authors: Omar Al-Hafith, Satish BK, Pieter de Wilde
Abstract: Traditional central courtyards have been advocated for being thermally efficient for hot-climate regions. However, exploring previous literature shows that it is not clear to what extent courtyards are truly thermally comfortable. This study determines the level of thermal comfort in residential courtyards in hot-climate regions, taking Baghdad as a case study. This study develops a novel Courtyard Thermal Usability Index (CTUI) to quantify the ability of courtyards to provide thermal comfort to occupants. CTUI is the fraction of useable thermally comfortable hours in courtyards of the total occupation hours during a specific period. To operationalise CTUI, the research employs the Envi-met 4.2 simulation tool to determine the annual thermal conditions of 360 courtyards. An adaptive thermal comfort model developed by Al-Hafith in 2020 for Iraq is used to judge simulated thermal conditions and determine CTUI. CTUI enables determining the level of thermal comfort courtyards offer to occupants by showing the ratio of the thermally comfortable period versus the occupation period. Results show that, in Iraq, annually, courtyards offer up to 38% comfortable hours out of the total potential occupation hours. The rest of the time the courtyard will not be comfortable, mostly due to overheating. When designing courtyards, the most effective geometric property impacting courtyards' thermal conditions is width/height. The most important microclimatic factor impacting occupants' thermal sensation is mean radiant temperature (MRT). This study can be used to inform designing thermally efficient courtyards for hot-climate regions. This study presents the first assessment of the thermal efficiency of courtyards in hot-climate regions depending on an assessment of their ability to provide thermal comfort to occupants. The study presents a novel index that can be used to quantify the ability of courtyards to provide a thermally comfortable environment to occupants.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-21
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2021-0154
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- Drivers for energy analysis towards a BIM-enabled information flow
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Authors: Ahmad Mohammad Ahmad, Sergio Rodriguez Trejo, Mian Atif Hafeez, Nashwan Dawood, Mohamad Kassem, Khalid Kamal Naji
Abstract: Energy analysis (EA) within a building information modelling (BIM) enables consistent data integration in central repositories and eases information exchange, reducing rework. However, data loss during information exchange from different BIM uses or disciplines is frequent. Therefore, a holistic approach for different BIM uses enables a coherent life cycle information flow. The life cycle information flow drives the reduction of data loss and model rework and enhances the seamless reuse of information. The latter requires a specification of the EA key performance indicators (KPIs) and integrating those in the process. The paper presents a set of KPIs extracted from the developed EA process maps and interviews with expert stakeholders. These KPIs stem from the literature review and link to the benefits of EA through industry expert review. The study includes (1) development and validation of EA process maps adjusted to requirements from different stakeholders. (2) KPIs aligned with the EA process map, (3) identification of the drivers that can facilitate life cycle information exchange and (4) opportunities and obstacles for EA within BIM-enabled projects. This paper depicts a viable alternative for EA process maps and KPIs in a BIM-enabled AEC design industry. The findings of this paper showcase the need for an EA within BIM with these KPIs integrated for a more effective process conforming to the current Open BIM Alliance guidance and contributing towards sustainable life cycle information flow. The limitation of the research is the challenge of generalising the developed EA process maps; however, it can be adjusted to fit defined organisational use. The findings deduced from the developed EA process map only show KPIs to have the ability to facilitate adequate information flow during EA. The AEC industry will benefit from the findings of this primary research as the industry will be able to contrast its process maps and KPIs to those developed in the paper. This paper benefits the societal values in EA for the built environment in the design stages. The subsequent life cycle information flow will help achieve a consistent information set and decarbonised built environment. The paper offers a practical overview of process maps and KPIs to embed EA into BIM, reducing the information loss and rework needed in the practice of this integration. The applicability of the solution is contrasted by consultation with experts and literature.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-20
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2021-0129
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- Investigating the performance of genetic algorithm and particle swarm for
optimizing daylighting and energy performance of offices in Alexandria,
Egypt-
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Authors: Amr S. Allam, Hesham Bassioni, Mohammed Ayoub, Wael Kamel
Abstract: This study aims to compare the performance of two nature-inspired metaheuristics inside Grasshopper in optimizing daylighting and energy performance against brute force in terms of the resemblance to ideal solution and calculation time. The simulation-based optimization process was controlled using two population-based metaheuristic algorithms, namely, the genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO). The objectives of the optimization routine were optimizing daylighting and energy consumption of a standard reference office while varying the urban context configuration in Alexandria, Egypt. The results from the GA and PSO were compared to those from brute force. The GA and PSO demonstrated much faster performance to converge to design solution after conducting only 25 and 43% of the required simulation runs, respectively. Also, the average proportion of the resulted weighted sum optimization (WSO) per case using the GA and PSO to that from brute force algorithm was 85 and 95%, respectively. The work of this paper goes beyond the current practices for showing that the performance of the optimization algorithm can differ by changing the urban context configuration while solving the same problem under the same design variables and objectives.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-04-07
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-11-2021-0202
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- VR and AR in construction management research: bibliometric and
descriptive analyses-
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Authors: Tayibe Seyman Guray, Burcu Kismet
Abstract: The construction industry is affected by the technologies of Industry 4.0 as the buildings are transforming into complex productions. Integration of innovative technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), in construction management is an emerging area to increase efficiency and effectiveness. With an aim of determining the current situation, this study evaluates the literature on VR and AR within construction management research. The methodology of this research is based on descriptive and bibliometric analyses to understand and state the current relations between VR-AR technologies and construction management research. According to the meta-analysis (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA]) protocol of reviewing, 143 papers between 2010 and 2021 from Scopus, Web of Science (WoS) and Science Direct have been retrieved, and then analysis has been applied on these papers. Descriptive analysis contains increment of publications throughout the years, rates of papers according to countries and content of the publications. The bibliometric analysis involves the analysis through Excel and VOSviewer: co-occurrence of keywords, country-based, source and citation. The results of this study emphasize the increasing interest in the adoption of VR-AR technologies in construction management research. As the number of publications has been continuously increased, this trend indicates the strength and growing interest in the topic. Another significant finding is VR-AR implementation studies are mostly based on building information modelling (BIM). In this study, the results of analyses have been discussed in terms of learning, knowledge areas and digital technologies as part of construction management. This study contributes to providing a significant theoretical reference for the potentials of VR-AR in construction management research. VR-AR technologies mostly attract the interest of researchers from architectural design studies; however, there is a gap to investigate their potentials in terms of construction management. Additionally, this study focuses on the last 11 years, which indicate the latest trends.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-24
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-01-2022-0015
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- System dynamics modelling coupled with multi-criteria decision-making
(MCDM) for sustainability-related policy analysis and decision-making in
the built environment-
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Authors: Ann Francis, Albert Thomas
Abstract: System dynamics has several applications in the built environment, and few studies indicate that it has potential in evaluating sustainability. Sustainability in the built environment involves numerous entities and multiple trade-offs. Hence, a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) method is ideal for promoting sustainability-based decision-making in the built environment. Therefore, this study integrates system dynamics with an MCDM method to enable the sustainability assessment by capturing the time-induced dynamic changes affecting long time sustainability performance of buildings. Conventional sustainability assessment tools in the built environment lack a comprehensive evaluation that balances the needs of the society, economy and environment. This study develops a system dynamics-based framework to enable sustainability-conscious decision-making and policy analysis in the built environment. Various material, technology and water-related policies specific to the buildings are investigated for a case study building. It is found that the effect of penetration of renewable energy technology to the tune of 80% and above in the energy mix is a much superior policy in sustainability improvement in comparison to material and water-related policies. The study also demonstrates the effect of weights assigned for the different indicators on sustainability-based decisions. The study provides a methodological framework for a sustainability-based decision support system for the built environment that enables dynamic performance evaluation by coupling system dynamics with the MCDM. This coupling further strengthens system dynamics as a decision-making and policy analysis for sustainability evaluation in the built environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-16
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-09-2021-0156
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- An investigation for integration of deep learning and digital twins
towards Construction 4.0
Open Access Article-
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Authors: Mergen Kor, Ibrahim Yitmen, Sepehr Alizadehsalehi
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential integration of deep learning (DL) and digital twins (DT), referred to as (DDT), to facilitate Construction 4.0 through an exploratory analysis. A mixed approach involving qualitative and quantitative analysis was applied to collect data from global industry experts via interviews, focus groups and a questionnaire survey, with an emphasis on the practicality and interoperability of DDT with decision-support capabilities for process optimization. Based on the analysis of results, a conceptual model of the framework has been developed. The research findings validate that DL integrated DT model facilitating Construction 4.0 will incorporate cognitive abilities to detect complex and unpredictable actions and reasoning about dynamic process optimization strategies to support decision-making. The DL integrated DT model will establish an interoperable functionality and develop typologies of models described for autonomous real-time interpretation and decision-making support of complex building systems development based on cognitive capabilities of DT. The research explores how the technologies work collaboratively to integrate data from different environments in real-time through the interplay of the optimization and simulation during planning and construction. The framework model is a step for the next level of DT involving process automation and control towards Construction 4.0 to be implemented for different phases of the project lifecycle (design–planning–construction).
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-02
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2021-0148
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- The role of internet of things (IoT) in the assessment and communication
of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in buildings: a review-
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Authors: Evandro Eduardo Broday, Manuel Carlos Gameiro da Silva
Abstract: The changes brought by Industry 4.0 go beyond transformations in the industrial environment. The increasingly frequent digitization and robotization of activities is not only restricted to the industrial environment, but also to people's daily routine. People spend a large part of their time inside buildings, and maintaining adequate Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) is an essential factor for a healthy and productive environment. In this sense, the purpose of this study is to verify how the Internet of Things (IoT) is being used to improve the indoor environment, through sensors that instantly measure the conditions of the environment. The aim of this paper is to verify, through a literature review, how IoT is being used for building control (for energy saving purposes) and to monitor IEQ conditions inside buildings, in order to provide a better environment for occupants, in terms of health and comfort. By combining keywords in databases, PRISMA method was used to select the articles for analysis, and 91 articles were analyzed. The main findings in this research are: (1) the main purpose for applying IoT inside buildings is to reduce energy consumption; (2) there is an interest in developing low-cost sensoring devices with a learning approach; (3) Machine Learning methods are mainly used for energy saving purposes and to learn about occupants' behavior inside buildings, focusing on thermal comfort; (4) sensors in the IoT era are a requirement to help improve people's comfort and well-being. Studies directly correlating IoT and IEQ are limited. This paper emphasises the link between them, through the presentation of recent methods to control the built environment.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-01
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-10-2021-0185
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- Impact of stakeholder management on efficient construction waste
management-
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Authors: Emmanuel Yaw Frempong-Jnr, Simon Ofori Ametepey, John Edward Cobbina
Abstract: The construction industry’s contribution to environmental deterioration is widely established in the literature, implying that addressing this issue will require a coordinated effort from all stakeholders. According to literature, stakeholder involvement without stakeholder management (SKM) is not enough, in ensuring efficient construction waste management (CWM). This study investigates the impact of SKM on efficient CWM by aggregating all relevant SKM variables and measuring their degree of influence on efficient CWM. This study used a four-stage research approach that included a literature review, a pilot study, a questionnaire survey and statistical analysis. After a thorough examination of the literature, nine essential SKM factors were identified and tested by a questionnaire survey following a pilot study. A total of 310 questionnaires were filled out and returned for analysis (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis). The study established that SKM is a unidimensional construct since all the variables extracted unto one underlying component with total variance explained (TVE), accounting for 58.938% of the total Variance in the measure of SKM in efficient CWM. Additionally, the reliability and validity test results satisfied the recommended thresholds, thus justifying the factorability of the construct. Furthermore, the hypothesis test revealed that SKM has a statistically significant impact on efficient CWM, implying that increasing SKM will have a beneficial impact on efficient CWM. The study is limited to material waste management in the construction industry and the outcome was determined solely by a field survey in Ghana. Extending the study to other jurisdictions would have improved its findings and made them easier to generalise. The study’s findings are helpful for practitioners and researchers, especially regarding the influence of the eight SKM variables on efficient CWM. The study’s findings will reduce pollution, thus enhancing public health and encouraging social inclusion through the creation of jobs in the waste management chain. The uniqueness of this study is anchored on the fact that no CWM study has considered all the eight SKM variables measured in this study at the same time. Also, this study has contributed to the literature by establishing the determinants of SKM in efficient CWM in Ghana.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-03-01
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-08-2021-0147
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- Green construction and environmental performance: an assessment
framework-
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Authors: De-Graft Owusu-Manu, Prosper Babon-Ayeng, Ernest Kissi, David J. Edwards, Derek Okyere-Antwi, Hatem Elgohary
Abstract: Construction firms worldwide are increasingly taking pragmatic steps towards addressing environmental problems arising from their activities. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of studies focused on the nexus between green construction and environmental performance. Hence, this study aims to examine the linkages between green construction practice and environmental performance. An extensive literature review was conducted to identify the relevant dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance. Variables collated were then subjected to pre-assessment and pre-testing processes. The pre-assessment was used as a preliminary content validation where experts assessed the various dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance proposed and determine if indeed the variables represent what the study set out to measure. Data were collected from construction professionals within the Ghana's Kumasi Metropolis. The sample size for the study was 100 experts in sustainable construction methods in the construction industry. A total of 63 responses were received out of the 100 target respondents, accounting for a 63% response rate. Data generated was analysed using mean score analysis and one-sample t-test to determine the level of significance of the various green construction practices and indicators for measuring environmental performance. A Pearson correlation analysis was undertaken to ascertain the relationships that exist among the various dimensions of green construction practice and indicators for measuring environmental performance. Finally, multiple linear regression analysis was utilised to ascertain the effect of the adoption of green construction practice on environmental performance. The results indicate that all the green construction practices and the indicators of environmental performance identified from the literature were significant at p = 0.05. The study's findings revealed that energy management is the most significant construct of green construction practice followed by storm-water management. Furthermore, the analysis showed that the preservation of water is the most significant environmental performance indicator followed by sanitation. The regression model developed also explained that 75% of the variations in environmental performance are explained by green construction practice. Notwithstanding the study's achievements, one major limitation the research faced was the relatively small sample size. This study provides sufficient data for construction professionals to identify the various green construction practices that could enhance environmental performance. The study's results showed that environmental performance could be improved by adopting the key green construction practices identified in this study. Pragmatic directions are also provided to stakeholders in the construction industry to take a critical look at the environmental performance indicators that were significant. This pioneering research attempts to investigate the linkages between green construction practice and environmental performance in Ghana. Key results provide a critical evidential influence of green construction on environmental performance and make a crucial contribution to the current body of knowledge.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-02-18
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-07-2021-0120
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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- The sustainability challenge of product information quality in the design
and construction of facades: lessons from the Grenfell Tower fire
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Authors: Soheila Bahrami, Davood Zeinali
Abstract: This paper explores the quality and flow of facade product information and the capabilities for avoiding the risk of facade fires early in the design process. A qualitative case study using the process tracing method is conducted in two stages. First, a thematic analysis of reports and literature identified two categories for the problems that caused fast fire spread across the Grenfell Tower facade. This enabled classifying the identified problems into four stages of a facade life cycle: product design and manufacturing, procurement, facade design and construction. Second, the capabilities for avoiding the problems were explored by conducting in-depth interviews with 18 experts in nine countries, analyzing design processes and designers' expertise and examining the usability of three digital interfaces in providing required information for designing fire-safe facades. The results show fundamental flaws in the quality of facade product information and usability of digital interfaces concerning fire safety. These flaws, fragmented design processes and overreliance on other specialists increase the risk of design defects that cause fast fire spread across facades. The findings have implications for standardization of building product information, digitalization in industrialized construction and facade design management. This research adds to the body of knowledge on sustainability in the built environment. It is the first study to highlight the fundamental problem of facade product information, which requires urgent attention in the rapid transition toward digital and industrialized construction.
Citation: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
PubDate: 2022-01-27
DOI: 10.1108/SASBE-06-2021-0100
Issue No: Vol. 12, No. 3 (2022)
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