Abstract: This study addresses the significant environmental impact of the rapidly expanding Indian real estate sector by examining energy efficiency practices through building information modelling (BIM) simulations. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research combines qualitative data from reputable literature sources and quantitative data collected via a questionnaire survey, chosen for its practicality and effectiveness in reaching a large sample size. The statistical approach involves factor analysis, utilizing the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test and principal component analysis (PCA) to explore underlying data structures and identify key variables. Findings highlight the importance of boosting BIM adoption, customizing energy efficiency measures to local contexts, fostering industry collaboration, implementing monitoring mechanisms, and investing in research and development. These recommendations aim to guide industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers in promoting sustainable development and enhancing energy efficiency in the Indian real estate market. PubDate: Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: There is an importance for innovation hubs in the field of real estate development as they enhance sustainability, promote technological developments and encourage collaboration. The innovation hubs help to integrate modern technologies, which decrease the associated costs and increase productivity. Moreover, innovation hubs allow the systematic organization of construction activities and achieve sustainable development goals. This paper aims to evaluate the multiple factors influencing construction logistics in developing the real estate sector through innovation hubs. The research used quantitative methodology and relied on two data acquisition techniques. The primary or unpublished data is obtained through an online survey, and secondary data is procured through already published articles and journals. The obtained survey data is analysed using factor analysis. The main factors are performance factors, optimization factors, ecological factors and growth factors. The authors developed a model according to factor analysis results. The recommendations are implementing innovative forums which help to update and adopt innovative technologies. Also, performance analysis mechanisms should be implemented to analyse workers’ productivity. PubDate: Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: This research examines the multifaceted factors that influence cost management practices in the Indian construction sector, with the objective of improving efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainability. The study addresses two central questions: (1) What are the prevailing cost management practices in the Indian construction industry, and (2) Which factors significantly impact these practices' Using a comprehensive literature review and empirical data collected through an online survey, the study uses factor analysis via SPSS 28 to discern the key determinants affecting cost management. The analysis identifies economic conditions, material costs, supply chain disruptions, project delays, poor site management, and lack of skilled labour as critical factors. The findings underscore the need for robust cost management strategies to mitigate financial challenges, reduce project delays, and improve overall project success. This research contributes to a more profound understanding of cost management dynamics in the Indian construction sector and provides practical recommendations to practitioners and policymakers to foster more effective cost control measures, thus ensuring the timely and cost-effective completion of construction projects. PubDate: Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: In this research, an empirical model, which proposes that informational events affect trading volume due to heterogeneous reactions and heterogeneous prior expectations, is tested. Belief dispersion both across and within two sub-groups that proxy for those who own and do not own a given security are measured. The impact of this dispersion on trading volume is also tested. The results suggest that both heterogeneous priors and heterogeneous reactions affect trading volume. However, it is found that any change (positive or negative) in dispersion across groups with heterogeneous prior expectations will result in an increase in trading volume. PubDate: Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Building accidents and fatalities are prevalent, especially in rising nations like Ghana, despite rapid technical developments. Weak regulations, training, and change resistance typically undermine traditional safety measures. This study aimed to identify potential obstacles that prevent the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in construction health and safety in Ghana. A survey research approach was employed to get the study population, which consisted of 110 construction experts made up of project managers, site engineers, skilled workers, and safety officers complete the questionnaire. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square, and regression. According to varied demographic responses, AI increases design and engineering, safety and security, and human resources efficiency, decision-making, and safety. Lack of innovation culture, training, and regulation harms health and safety. Using AI promises to overcome these hurdles by minimising risks, improving worker well-being, and safe work environment. The Ghanaian industry study focus and small sample size may prejudice, as the limitations of the study. Samples must be larger and more diversified to generalise. The practical implication is that Ghanaian builders may use the study’s findings. Understanding AI’s potential and limitations helps them develop AI solutions and problem-solving methodologies. Safety, cost, and worker well-being can improve. The successful integration of AI in construction health and safety can affect society. AI can reduce workplace accidents and improve productivity, well-being, and healthcare costs. This work adds to the growing body of knowledge on AI’s building safety applications in emerging economies like Ghana. It identifies environmental restrictions and enables governments, industry leaders, and researchers to develop and implement AI solutions. PubDate: Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: This research has investigated and evaluated the demographic profile and competency levels of local builders involved in residential building construction sites at Nawalparasi East, Gandaki province, Nepal. The construction industry is a cornerstone of Nepal’s economic development. The reliability and quality of construction heavily depend on the local builder’s capability to execute the work on the basis of technical and skills proficiency. This study aims to ascertain the status of local builders regarding their competency levels and their construction work profiles on the basis of work experience. The research employs a questionnaire approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. A field survey is administered to local builders to evaluate their demographic profiles, technical skills and knowledge as well as their construction site experiences. The findings of this study reveal what local builders are good at and where they need to improve in residential construction. The results of this research are meant to help construction entrepreneurs, industry players, and local-level authorities come up with plans to boost the local builders and categories them as per their ability and strength. The outcome of the alternate hypothesis indicates that, concerning local builders, there is substantial evidence suggesting that at least one characteristic significantly varies from the others. PubDate: Sat, 06 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The success of the construction sector is dependent on its diverse workforce and its role in driving growth. India’s economy is significantly tied to construction, especially residential and commercial projects. Effective project management relies on technical, knowledge-based, and soft skills. Realistic management techniques and stakeholder relationships are vital for success. The transition from construction to operations occurs during the handover phase. Developing project management competence is crucial in the midst of failures and delays. This study aims to improve Indian construction through a model developed through an online survey of civil engineering, architecture, and project management professionals. Factor analysis identifies key success factors grouped into project management competency, environmental factors, financial viability, operational efficiency, and structural safety. Recommendations involve the adoption of technology such as BIM, skill enhancement, and sustainability promotion, which can address sectoral challenges and support Indian construction growth. Further research is suggested for industries and global construction contexts. Insights are relevant for Indian construction professionals. PubDate: Wed, 19 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: In today’s world, sustainability practices are critical to every industry including the construction sector. This has come into being because of the pressure exerted on organisations and their supply chains by different stakeholders who demand ethically produced goods and services as well as responsible service delivery methods. The purpose of this research was to assess the relationship between sustainability practices and the benefits that sustainability offers organisations. This study employed cross-sectional descriptive design with a quantitative approach. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire with closed-ended questions from 67 respondents who were purposively sampled from building construction companies registered with the National Council for Construction (NCC) in grades 1 to 4 and operating in the Copperbelt province of Zambia. These included senior management employees involved in various projects. The collected data was analysed using exploratory factor analysis and regression analysis. The findings revealed that economic sustainability practices had a significant influence on delivering sustainability benefits, whereas social and environmental sustainability practices had no significant influence on delivering sustainability benefits. The research further revealed that the period a company was in operation significantly contributed to its ability to realise sustainability benefits, and to the contrary, that awareness and stakeholder participation did not. The researcher thus recommended that companies in the construction sector should develop and implement sustainability policies in order to meet the expectations of several stakeholders and secure long-term competitive advantage. PubDate: Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Considering the trend towards climate neutrality and energy efficiency at the global level as well as the problem of high energy poverty at the national level, the issue of housing renovation was inevitable for Latvia in 2023. The main objective of the study is to analyse the situation in Latvia, its problematic aspects and opportunities for the government, as well as to propose possible methods for solving the problem of low rates of housing renovation in Latvia. The main methods used were PESTLE analysis to identify problems and cluster analysis to compare financial opportunities in each country. The main results of the study are the conclusion that the financial aspect of renovation in Latvia is at a satisfactory level and is not the main reason for the unpopularity of renovation, but the main problem is energy poverty. The main conclusion is that renovation in Latvia requires a new approach that can improve the energy efficiency situation in Latvia, and providing such a method in the form of building renovation based on private-public partnership is the possible approach. PubDate: Sun, 19 May 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The main aim of the study was to model stakeholders’ capacity for urban housing development from a developing country’s perspective, using Zambia as a case study. The study used a quantitative methodology and recruited 214 respondents from various organizations concerned with the planning and development of human settlements in Lusaka, Zambia. The structured questionnaire used for data collection contained nine indicator variables informed by literature. The collected data was analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and goodness-of-fit was utilized to assess the acceptability of the model using a two-index technique. The findings revealed that stakeholders’ capacity is explained by four variables, namely: ensuring adequate staffing levels in institutional stakeholders; community empowerment in planning practices; development of essential construction skills; as well as provision of technical support to communities on housing. The paper recommends, among other things, the need to fully engage and build the capacities of communities so that they can effectively participate in housing development. The findings have practical implications for improving housing in the global south. It advances the promotion of capacity building as a prerequisite for driving housing development in line with the new urban agenda. PubDate: Sat, 10 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The notion of smart buildings is becoming a global trend. The smart concept is spread not only via buildings but also through cities, transportation, and communication. Many difficulties human beings face can be solved by smart building technology. For example, environmental contamination and resource depletion, such as water and fossil fuels. In Sri Lanka, smart building adoption was at a low level. As a result, the purpose of this research is to assess user comprehension of smart building service preferences and adoption from a Sri Lankan viewpoint. A questionnaire survey is used to obtain data from the community as part of the data collection approach. To achieve the objectives stated above, the data will be analysed using principal component analysis, multiple regression analysis, and Pareto analysis. Results indicated that the majority of Sri Lankans do not grasp smart building technologies. Using principal component analysis, eleven major service preferences were determined. Multiple regression analysis is used to identify the factors that influence service preference. The most essential elements impacting smart building adoption are competency to utilize new technology, preference for smart building attributes, and user satisfaction. This study would be an excellent resource for the future adoption of smart building technologies in Sri Lanka. PubDate: Sat, 10 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Administration of residential houses, in accordance with legal regulations, is a complex process that includes different important functions. Such functions encompass performing regular maintenance, sanitary cleaning and required repairs, as well as thorough planning and organisation, strict documentation and monitoring. Moreover, administration of residential houses includes communication with residents and cooperation with public institutions to ensure protection of rights and interests of apartment owners. Professional administration of residential houses requires a complex, responsible and very specific approach, covering a wide range of complex works. Housing stock administration is a thoroughly elaborated process with specific schedules and goals. It covers not only maintenance of engineering works and the building, but also administration of the surrounding territory and common-use premises. Moreover, it covers a precise administration process and efficient communication with residents of the building, and solution of routine administrative cases. An administration contract with a specialist in this field is not just a means but a tool by using which owners of a residential house, i.e., apartment owners, fulfil the obligations stipulated by law with regards to efficient administration of the residential house. Choosing the right administrator is important for the owner because it determines the sustainable conservation cycle of the building. A person is eligible to perform administration tasks in a multi-apartment residential house, when having obtained the required professional education in administration of residential houses. PubDate: Tue, 26 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Telework in Europe has seen a significant surge, especially due to technological advancements and the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper focuses on the incidence and changes in telework in European countries before and after the COVID-19 pandemic and proposes a classification of European countries in terms of share of teleworkers and the rate of increase in teleworking. This classification provides insights into the varying stages of teleworking adoption across different European countries and can be used by practitioners, researchers and policy makers. Furthermore, we focus on Greece as a critical example of digital underachievement. The study uses data from the European Union Labour Force Survey (EU-LFS) and covers the European Union countries, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. The paper shows that the pandemic significantly boosted remote work across Europe. However, the disparity in remote work adoption between regions within Europe remains significant displaying a divide between North-Western and South-Eastern Europe regarding remote work adoption. PubDate: Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The risks associated with construction can be transferred to insurance. However, in the Zambian construction industry (ZCI), knowledge and use of insurance covers (performance security, advance payment, and contractor’s all risk insurance) have not been previously fully elucidated. The study was designed to cover this knowledge gap among professionals in government and private sector construction institutions, as well as insurance and financial institutions. Analysed data were approached quantitatively. Based on responses collected from 68 participants purposively sampled using a structured questionnaire as instrument, results were discussed and conclusion drawn. Private sector personnel headed the number of respondents and were more likely to have had five or more years of work experience than those of the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) institutions (86 % vs 36 %, p = 0.001). Approximately 88 % of the participants both in the public 33 % and private 67 % sector had knowledge about securities and contractors’ all risk insurance. There was variation in the use of different securities and contractors’ all risk insurance, with the lowest uptake being for retention bonds. Personnel from public institutions were more likely to have used CAR-insurance security in one or more projects than those from the private sector (100 % vs 47 %, p = 0.009). Participants also reported that they had valid securities and had successful implementation of securities with a variable level of compliance among different stakeholders. Finally, approximately half of the participants had effective systems for monitoring performance of securities, and a majority of the systems were said to be effective. Education of key players in risk management, formulation and enforcement of laws are necessary to ensure effective risk management practices. PubDate: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The aim of this study is to define and clarify the idea of improving management effectiveness within Indian construction companies. We conducted an online survey with an Indian construction company and used correlation analysis to thoroughly examine how both external and internal factors affect management effectiveness. The survey includes demographic questions, ratings on a scale of 1 to 5 for management aspects, ratings on a similar scale for internal and external factors, and ratings on a similar scale for potential improvement suggestions. With the help of descriptive statistics and frequencies, the mean efficiency values were calculated using SPSS and Excel to analyse the collected data. To establish links between the variables and the effectiveness of the company, correlation analysis was also carried out. The primary conclusions of the study highlight the critical importance of focussing on employee relations, meticulous tracking of work output, integration of technology, and adherence to established protocols as key factors in improving management effectiveness. The research also reveals significant problems with the management system, such as a preference for sanctions over incentives. It establishes that internal and external factors have equal weight in influencing management effectiveness, emphasising the need for an all-encompassing strategy that is flexible enough to support long-term advancement in construction company management practices. PubDate: Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: More than half of Latvia’s population lives in Soviet-built, serial apartment blocks that have reached or are rapidly reaching the end of their useful life. The State Audit Office has acknowledged in its report that there is not an effective approach to housing security in the country, and the funds needed to renovate the buildings exceed the owners’ ability to pay. The main problems are the following: the actual technical condition of these buildings is unknown (technical studies are needed), there are no freely available management fee savings for residents to pay for fundamental studies and repairs or renovations, there is insufficient or difficult access to public support for improving energy efficiency and the overall technical condition of buildings. Apartment buildings are also one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions (36 %), a problem which is relevant in the context of the national climate targets for 2023. In order to establish the actual technical condition of the buildings and to develop the most affordable improvement solutions, it is necessary to carry out a technical investigation for each of the apartment buildings, identifying the problems specific to each series and individual to each building, taking into account the different conditions to which the buildings are exposed in their daily operation. Such an approach would allow for the development of standard solutions to the problems specific to each series, saving resources and ensuring a higher quality of renovation works. The question remains how to address the financial support needed for comprehensive technical studies and the development of standard solutions. Is the technical condition of apartment buildings only a problem for residents (apartment owners), property managers, municipalities or the government' PubDate: Sun, 26 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The construction industry is a critical sector in the nation’s economic growth, accounting for a sizable share of GDP growth. However, it is the most vulnerable industry to a financial depression, whether local or worldwide. The present economic crisis has had an impact on the Sri Lankan construction industry, with more than half a million employees lost their jobs in the previous year. Many major construction firms have either paused or abandoned their projects and shifted to overseas construction. Therefore, understanding the consequences of financial crises regarding construction initiatives in Sri Lanka, as well as anticipated post-crisis growth paths in this sector, necessitates a thorough examination. The goal of this study is to extensively examine the consequences of the 2022 economic crisis on Sri Lankan construction projects and investigate remedies that might start a post-crisis rebound. The study utilized a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods. Purposive sampling was used to choose construction industry participants from various backgrounds in order to get a varied range of perspectives. The findings of this study not only emphasize the negative consequences of the crisis but also reveal prospects for development within the industry. The article offers construction professionals and other industry stakeholders useful insights about the foreseeable future of the country’s construction sector. The research looks at prospective growth areas such as the development of infrastructure, sustainable construction strategies, and the usage of emerging technology. The findings of the research can help to ensure that the sector has a robust and productive future. PubDate: Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The occurrence of variations in building construction contracts is a subject that needs some attention in public sector projects. They are, almost all the time, detrimental rather than beneficial variations. The paper aimed to identify the nature of variations in government-initiated building projects over fourteen years, from 2000 to 2014, in the Central Region and their impacts. Preliminary counts of documents revealed that a total of 348 projects were executed over the period. The data collection process started by first sorting out files, contract documents, and payment certificates for the period under consideration. These documents were scrutinised one after the other to detect possible variations. The inclusion criterion for selecting a project was if a project had any form of variation(s) recorded. After thoroughly examining these 348 project documents, 84 were found to have variations. The study identified additional works and substitutions as the most inherent variations in public building projects in the Central Region. About 85 % of the variations found in the 84 projects with various forms of variations were additional works and substitutions. It was revealed that the cost of multiple variations was higher than single variations. Projects with multiple variations had high percentage variation and durations than others. Percentage variation in some instances was 400 %. The study identified that multiple variations were more costly than single variations. The highest variation cost identified was (USD 211 864.41 or EUR 183 150.18) for one project. The study identified the nature of variations that usually occurred in government building projects and their association with both cost and time. The study asserts that the presence of multiple change orders has substantial financial significance and should be diligently avoided through efficient project initiation and planning. PubDate: Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: Despite convergence shown by different schools of thought on the correlation between efficient risk management practices and enhanced delivery of sustainable construction projects, the knowledge gap on the use of professional indemnity insurance (PII) is still persistent in Africa, particularly in Zambia. This paper examined factors influencing the use of PII to manage construction risks. It has identified the main factors influencing the use of PII, assessed their influence and respondents’ consensus level in the Zambia context. Data were collected qualitatively using a two-round Delphi survey. Ten field experts were selected, including construction professionals, contractors and surety providers. Experts’ opinion positioned premium and legal framework as highly influential with a median of within the range of 9 to 10; surety prequalification and stakeholders’ interest as being influential with a median equal to 7. Except for surety prequalification and stakeholders’ interest, which had weak consensus with an Interquartile Range greater than or equal to 2.75, the other six factors (surety service quality, surety, construction firm relationships, competition in the industry, and construction firm level of awareness) reached a good consensus with an Interquartile Range within the range of 1 to 2.75. Embedded with the ability to influence other factors, legal framework acts as focal point to improve access of PII and therefore needs adequate and contextualized amendments. PubDate: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT
Abstract: The construction sector contributes significantly to waste generation and resource depletion. Identifying potential household waste for reuse and recycling as secondary raw materials has emerged as a key technique for addressing these environmental concerns. This study uses the Colombo municipality in Sri Lanka to identify and evaluate household waste products having the potential to be reused as secondary raw materials in the construction sector. The study employs a mixed method for data collection and analysis. First, a questionnaire survey of industry experts was conducted to identify and assess the requirements for household waste that may be utilized in the construction sector, followed by a complete literature analysis to determine the reuse applications of potential household waste. The findings of this study will be useful in identifying and evaluating household waste items that may be recycled as secondary raw materials in the construction sector. It would also help to establish sustainable waste management techniques and circular economy practices in Sri Lanka. The study’s findings can help policymakers, waste management authorities, and stakeholders in the construction industry to implement effective waste management practices and promote the use of recycled materials in construction projects, reducing environmental impact and conserving natural resources. PubDate: Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT
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