bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIM Implementation for PMBOK Enhancement in the Construction Industry
Authors: Zahedi Foad , Dang Hongtao , Majrouhi Sardroud Javad , Shirzadi Mahdi
Published: May 2024

The construction industry has made significant improvements in adopting and integrating emerging technologies. One example is the wide use of Building Information Modeling (BIM), which offers numerous benefits to the construction industry. BIM assists project teams in achieving better quality with lower risk, shorter timeframes, and reduced costs. Meanwhile, the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) defines the required discipline to meet stakeholders' needs. PMBOK aims to facilitate the achievement of predefined project deliverables and improve project goals through effective communication and decision-making processes. This paper presents a questionnaire-based investigation to measure whether BIM implementation enhances the PMBOK in projects and whether BIM positively affects Project Management Knowledge Areas (PMKAs) on a global scale. The questionnaire consisted of 7 general questions, 37 PMBOK-oriented questions, and 4 questions targeting BIM advantages and obstacles. 95 experts participated in the survey based on the LinkedIn search and survey invitation. The results showed that BIM dramatically influences the quality of execution of PMKAs, specifically in Project Integration Management. Additionally, the study examined the effect of BIM on the product lifecycle that BIM improves project coordination and discovers clashes during the engineering phase. In the construction phase, BIM facilitates as-built drawings and enhances communication, and during the post-construction phase, BIM enhances facility and components’ lifecycle management. The research also found that the most significant obstacles to implementing BIM are the lack of experts, value propositions, and efficient training.
Generation Z and the Construction Industry
Authors: Shwiyyat Hani , Lewis Amy , Cournia Jay
Published: May 2024

One future challenge that the construction industry will begin to face soon is the transition of a new generation of workers into the field. Older generations, who hold a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in the field, are retiring as the newer generation, "Generation Z" are beginning their careers. This new generation of talent entering the workforce poses new challenges and opportunities for growth, as they are the largest and most diverse generation yet. This paper illustrates the challenges and opportunities this new generation and the construction industry will face, and creating new ways to attract, retain, and educate gen-z as they enter the workforce through student feedback.
Electrical Contractors’ Perception on Electric Vehicles and Potential Opportunities from Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Authors: Ju Ha Kyun , Kang Kyubyung , Sparkling Anthony
Published: May 2024

This study evaluates the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's (IIJA) impact on Electric Vehicle (EV) opportunities for Electrical Contractors (ECs), highlighting the disparity between ECs' expectations and the actual opportunities available. Employing survey methodologies and analysis of IIJA project data, the research addresses ECs’ perceptual gap. The survey results, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches, particularly for open-ended questions, are juxtaposed with a quantitative analysis of IIJA data to extract financial insights. Key findings reveal a significant mismatch: while 75% of ECs view EVs as major future revenue sources, anticipating considerable opportunities from IIJA's EV projects, only 1% of IIJA funding is dedicated to EV-related initiatives. Despite 64% of ECs expecting substantial benefits from the IIJA for their businesses, only 7.5% of the total funding (approximately $15 billion) is allocated to sectors relevant to ECs, including broadband, clean energy, power, and EV infrastructure. The Clean Energy and Power sector, however, emerges as a potential area of opportunity, especially given that 92% of these projects are valued under $2 million, suggesting broader participation possibilities for ECs. The study's limitations include a small sample size of 54 survey participants and the evolving nature of IIJA projects. Future research will expand the participant base, explore regional differences, and continuously update IIJA project data to better understand the Act's long-term implications for ECs.
Identifying the Leading Credit Categories in Determining the Overall LEED NC Score of Multifamily Residential Projects
Authors: Goodarzi Mohsen , Garshasby Mohsen
Published: May 2024

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) has been the focus of several studies due to being globally accepted as a standard for the design, construction, and operation of highly efficient buildings. However, less research has focused on specific project types and the credit allocation of LEED systems in these projects. This research evaluates the associations between the scores achieved by multifamily residential projects in each category of LEED BD+C for New Construction version 4 (LEED-NC v4) and the overall LEED score of the projects to understand the consistency between the anticipated and actual weight of each category in determining overall sustainability of the projects. Data about the LEED-certified projects was gathered from the U.S. Green Building Council website and was analyzed through a multiple regression analysis. The results showed some consistencies and some discrepancies between the anticipated and actual weight of credit categories. For instance, Indoor Environmental Quality showed a higher influence on overall LEED score compared to Location and Transportation, despite having a lower weight in the system. These findings underscore the importance of periodically reviewing and revising the LEED criteria based on past projects and involving stakeholders in the development of the standards for this system.
Residential Housing Labor Market Outcomes following Wildfires: A Case Study of the 2018 Camp Fire
Authors: Pradhan Srijesh , Arneson Erin
Published: May 2024

Wildfires in recent years have posed a great threat to residential properties and local economies in communities located near the wildland-urban interface (WUI), particularly in the state of California. Wildfires destroy residential properties, disrupting the residential construction supply chains. When the residential housing stock is destroyed by wildfires, rebuilding must quickly begin to avoid disrupting the local community and economy. This process intensifies the demand for residential construction material resources and requires the local construction labor market to sustain the demand for construction labor over time and manage the influx of workers. Using an interrupted time series analysis, this study investigates the dynamic impacts of wildfires on the residential construction sector, utilizing residential permits and labor employment data from a case study of the 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County, California. Results indicate that the wildfire promoted a sustained increase in residential construction activity (average post-fire permit valuations increased by 67%), matched by a consistent rise in labor employment (average post-fire labor concentration increased by 25%). The findings provide insights into the resilience of residential construction sectors in the face of wildfires.
Modular Construction Safety Risk Mitigation
Authors: Khan Muhammad , Gbiengu Prosper , Zhang Zhenyu , Nnaji Chukwuma , Namian Mostafa
Published: May 2024

The construction industry has witnessed a significant increase in the use of modular construction, given its ability to save time and reduce project costs. However, while modular construction is relatively safer than traditional construction methods, workers are still exposed to hazards that lead to injuries and fatalities. Few studies have focused on identifying the safety risks linked to the process of manufacturing, transporting, and installing modular structures. Therefore, the present study describes research on the safety risks associated with modular construction and the development of safety training resources. Specifically, this study focused on: (1) identifying safety risk factors and (2) developing training resources for mitigating these risk factors. The aim of the study was achieved through a detailed review of existing studies, a comprehensive analysis of archival data, interviews with safety professionals, and user assessment of training resources. The findings revealed that 70% of fatalities occur during the manufacturing phase of construction. Additionally critical safety risks identified included incidents such as falling loads, jack slippage incidents, lack of fall arrest systems implementation and equipment failures within construction projects. The study contributes to knowledge and practice by generating insight that could be used to improve the safety of workers in the modular construction industry.
Enhancing the Evaluation Phase of Value Engineering in Construction Projects Through Application of Choosing by Advantages (CBA)
Authors: Wao Joel , Ries Robert , Flood Ian
Published: May 2024

Value engineering (VE) is a systematic methodology used by a multidisciplinary team of professionals to provide value to the owner of a project, product, or service. This value can manifest in reduced cost, improved performance and quality of systems or overall project saving. The success of a VE methodology depends on the team conducting good function analysis, using correct creativity approaches, and employing better evaluation tools. Noteworthy is that the use of conventional VE methodology has shown various limitations where project owners may end up not getting the needed value. Thus, this research assessed the evaluation phase of VE and then proposed and demonstrated a new evaluation technique in VE called Choosing by Advantages (CBA) on a small case study project. The CBA concept was presented to the VE practitioners and then a survey questionnaire was administered to them to get their feedback about the concept relative to improving construction project outcome. The results showed a user-friendly and accepted CBA tool which could be used in VE methodology by construction project teams to provide the needed project value. This research contributes to the VE studies body of knowledge especially those focusing on improving construction project value and overall outcome.
Design and Construction Practices for Efficient Bridge Deck Drainage
Authors: Akhnoukh Amin , Seracino Rudolf
Published: May 2024

The National Bridge Inventory (NBI) of the United States includes more than 600,000 bridges. A significant number of current bridges is structurally deficient and/or functionally obsolete. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as well as State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) are investigating possible alternatives to improve the NBI bridges rating. Flooding and excessive rain are among the causes of bridges deterioration. Bridge deck runoff has been a prime source of pollution. In addition, reduced deck drainage efficiency due to poor design, mal construction practices, and lack of maintenance results in runoff accumulation on bridge decks. Increased accumulation of runoff results in traffic congestions, potential bridge deterioration due to increased corrosion, and a substantial impact on bridge aesthetics. Excessive runoff accumulation may result in hydroplaning and higher accidents rates. This paper presents the significance of properly designed, constructed, and maintained deck drainage systems. A nation-wide survey outcomes of State DOTs regarding best design, construction, and maintenance practices of deck drains is presented, and the relevant outcomes of their impact on bridge condition is highlighted. The implementation of bridge deck drainage best practices in bridge design projects will result in improved bridge functionality, increased bridges load rating, reduced maintenance, and improved aesthetics.
Building Trust for a Stronger Construction Industry: Exploring the Role of Trust in Project Success
Authors: Hoots Adam , Lyons Ann , Dunn Charlie , Clarke Shima
Published: May 2024

Construction is a complex industry reliant on a network of stakeholders. Trust, the cornerstone of successful collaboration, plays a crucial role in this ecosystem. This paper explores the significance of trust in improving project outcomes and the overall well-being of the industry. This exploration includes trust's impact on team dynamics, the criteria for establishing trust, and the need for more research on trust in the United States. The absence of trust acts as a substantial collaboration barrier, resulting in adversarial relationships, contractual disputes, and a lack of efficiency among the workforce. Trust fosters open communication, enhanced safety, better quality, predictable schedules, innovation, employee retention, and client satisfaction. Trust encourages addressing root causes, prioritizing people, and promoting a culture of care. This paper recommends areas for future research, including trust measurement, maintaining trust over the project lifecycle, creating psychological safety, and studying the long-term effects of trust.
Integrating a Module on Artificial Intelligence Literacy in an Undergraduate Construction Management Course
Authors: Cheng Jiun-Yao , Devkota Ajit , Gheisari Masoud , Jeelani Idris
Published: May 2024

The rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) hold the promise of transformative benefits across industries, including construction. To navigate this changing landscape, construction students must not only harness AI's potential but also grasp its ethical considerations and potential challenges. As such, there is a growing imperative within construction education to foster AI literacy among prospective professionals. This study developed and integrated an "AI in Construction" course module into an undergraduate construction management course. The primary goal is to equip students with AI literacy, achieved through a comprehensive approach that encompasses both theoretical knowledge, covering essential AI concepts and their applications in construction, and practical hands-on experiences, exemplified by a project focused on computer vision for personal protective equipment (PPE) inspection. Results from the course module implementation show that students gained a basic understanding of AI fundamentals after the module, such as dataset annotation, model development, deployment, and evaluation. Qualitative feedback indicates students were motivated to explore further AI-related topics in construction, and several topics that are of their interest were identified. These findings affirm the effectiveness of the proposed module and offer valuable insights for further development and enhancement of AI-related modules in construction education.
A Review of AR Applications in Construction Management: 2018-2022
Authors: Liu Lijun , Huang Yilei
Published: May 2024

In the dynamic realm of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) projects, technological advancements have played a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and safety on construction sites. Augmented Reality (AR) has emerged as a transformative tool, revolutionizing how construction projects are planned, executed, and monitored. This paper presents a comprehensive review of AR applications in construction management from 2018 to 2022, offering insights into the evolution, impact, and potential of this innovative technology. This study encompasses various AR applications, including design, fabrication, safety, education and training, and construction and facility management. The development of AR hardware and software solutions was explored. Notable developments and their implications have also been highlighted for the construction industry. Furthermore, the challenges and barriers hindering the widespread adoption of AR in construction management were analyzed, such as cost considerations, technological limitations, and workforce readiness. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers seeking to navigate the transformative landscape of AR in construction management.
Potential and Limitations of BIM in Designing Fire Sprinkler System: An Expert’s Perspective
Authors: Ahmadi Nooshin , Sharma Bhattarai Sushmit , Kim Hyunhwan
Published: May 2024

This research investigates the influence of Building Information Modeling (BIM) on the design of fire sprinkler systems, particularly in alignment with NFPA 13 requirements. Globally, fires result in significant human and property losses, emphasizing the need for effective fire prevention measures. Fire sprinkler systems, governed by stringent NFPA regulations, play a pivotal role in mitigating these losses. With the advent of BIM in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, questions arise regarding its efficacy in aiding the design and installation of these systems. Through a questionnaire survey targeting professionals in the field, this study seeks to understand the current capabilities and limitations of BIM in this context. Preliminary findings indicate a strong endorsement of BIM's role in 3D modeling and conflict detection. However, challenges persist in areas like sprinkler type selection and compliance with specific NFPA 13 rules. The research underscores the need for further advancements in BIM to better support fire sprinkler system design, ultimately aiming to enhance fire prevention and safety.
Hidden Iceberg of Construction Safety: Assessing Near-Miss Recognition Performance under Stress through a Personality Lens
Authors: Muley Shashank , Wang Chao
Published: May 2024

The construction industry is widely acknowledged as hazardous and stressful, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate accidents and fatalities. This study investigated the influence of the Big Five personality traits on construction workers' recognition of the Fatal Four near-miss scenarios under different stressor conditions. Using an eye-tracking experiment conducted in a controlled environment, 35 participants were exposed to well-balanced stimuli images derived from actual construction sites. Participants completed self-reported questionnaires to assess their personality traits, and their recognition performance was recorded and analyzed using a wearable eye tracker. The findings revealed a statistically significant difference in visual attention for participants in non- stress versus stressful conditions. Individuals with low (neuroticism and openness) and high (agreeableness and conscientiousness) displayed enhanced alertness during the stressor condition. Therefore, this study provides empirical evidence of the impact assessment between stressor conditions and personality traits on near-miss recognition in the construction industry. The results open avenues for developing personalized safety training programs tailored to individuals with lower near-miss identification abilities under stress, thereby fostering a robust safety culture within the construction sector.
A Review of Gypsum-Based Cementitious Materials in 3D Printing
Authors: Al Shenawa Amaal , Bankole Adeshola
Published: May 2024

Three-dimensional printing (3DP), or additive manufacturing AM, creates a three-dimensional item from a digital 3D model. Although it is still in its preliminary stages of acceptance in the construction industry, this automated manufacturing method has gained substantial importance across industries, including the construction industry. 3D printing technology can improve building efficiency for irregular structures by introducing construction automation. This research aims to review the impact of gypsum on the mixture of cementitious material's printability, compressive strength, compressive strength, hydration, and rheological behavior. This study analyses the relationship between construction materials, like cement mortar and other cementitious materials, and their interesting environmental behaviors with gypsum powder for 3D printing in construction. In addition to reviewing various techniques that are used in the construction industry.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Augmented Reality (AR) in Interior Design Courses
Authors: Zhao Tianjiao , Na Ri
Published: May 2024

In the realm of construction education, the increasing utilization of Augmented Reality (AR) tools has brought forth new opportunities for enhancing spatial perception, optimizing spatial layout, accommodating design changes, and improving communication. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of mobile AR apps in these dimensions, providing insights into the transformative potential of AR technology within construction instruction. A quantitative analysis was performed by comparing the time usage with and without Augmented Reality (AR) within both the experimental and control groups in each school. A supplementary questionnaire was also undertaken in this study from two construction programs with a focus on how AR tools influence spatial comprehension and communication. This study intends to contribute valuable perspectives for integrating these technologies into contemporary educational frameworks, thereby fostering a more comprehensive learning experience for students in the construction field.
Analyzing Billing Patterns in The Construction Industry Using Earned Value Analysis
Authors: Chandrasekar Bharath , Killingsworth John , Bright Kevin
Published: May 2024

Earned Value Analysis is an effective tool to manage project schedules and cost controls. However, it is not widely used because of the time resources required from construction managers. This research considered whether a central tendency exists in construction projects with same, or similar durations regarding cumulative earned value. An analysis was performed of a dataset containing 967 projects with durations primarily spanning 12 to 14 months. By examining the monthly billing percentages, average monthly billing percentages were calculated alongside their standard deviations, leading to the determination of minimum and maximum confidence intervals. An Earned Value Analysis (EVA) curve was then constructed based on these findings. The research found that a generalizable EVA curve can be established with relatively minimal variation from the mean. Key findings include an established average monthly billing percentage and a predictive EVA curve, which aids in identifying minimum and maximum confidence intervals for project billings. The study contributes to EVA knowledge by laying a foundation for predictive modeling in project billing, with implications for future research.
What 21st Century CM Graduates Need to Know and Be Able to Do: Results of a Needs Assessment Study Using Industry Focus Groups
Authors: Leathem Tom , Burt Richard
Published: May 2024

The need for construction management programs to maintain a curriculum that is relevant to current and future industry needs is a regular challenge. The most accessible option for conducting a curriculum needs assessment is to do it within the program among the faculty and administration. While it is essential for these stakeholders to be key participants, their view includes only a portion of the critical perspective. A holistic evaluation should include multiple perspectives from key stakeholders, namely faculty, students, and industry. However, little literature on needs assessment incorporates the student perspective. This paper reports on results of employing a focus group approach to gain insight from recent graduates of a CM program to determine the essential knowledge and skills required of new graduates in the construction management industry. Results from two different focus group sessions indicate recent CM graduates should possess a suite of technical skills but more importantly a strong set of soft skills.
Flipped Classrooms and Peer-to-Peer Learning in a Construction Management Course
Authors: Subedi Jishnu
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a case study of the implementation of a combined peer-to-peer learning and flipped classroom approach in a course within a baccalaureate degree program in Construction Project Management. In a flipped classroom, students review the learning materials before class, complete lower-level cognitive tasks outside of the classroom, and engage in higher-level cognitive tasks during class time. While there are numerous advantages to flipping the classroom compared to traditional teaching, the strategy becomes ineffective if students cannot complete the assigned tasks before class and lack motivation to participate in higher-level learning during the class. To ensure motivation and continuous engagement, a combination of strategies was employed, including peer-to-peer learning and teaching, granting credits for classroom participation and peer evaluation, and establishing milestones for continuous evaluation of outputs. Over the years, the percentage of students who agreed that the course's delivery method provided opportunities for active participation in discussions and collaborative activities increased from 80% to 100%. Similarly, the percentage of students who completed the readings and homework on time increased from 85% to 100%.
Evaluating Industry Perception of Biophilic Design in Enhancing Construction Jobsite Trailers' Physical Work Environment
Authors: Abubakr Emmara , Kim Jeffrey
Published: May 2024

The stressors for the construction site managers include tight project deadlines, complex coordination, and workforce management, which impact their mental and physical well-being, resulting in loss of productivity. The productivity and well-being of the employees are greatly impacted by the physical conditions of the work environment. These include the layout of the workspace, lighting, temperature, noise, and ergonomics. Considering these factors, this research was initiated to measure the satisfaction level of on-site personnel with the design of their job site trailers in terms of physical and psychological comfort. It also focused on studying the benefits associated with incorporating biophilia in the design of job site trailers. Biophilic design helps to improve well-being and productivity by connecting occupants of a built space with the natural environment, like natural views, materials, water elements, sounds, indoor plantations, and even forms that mimic nature. A mixed-methods approach was used for data collection. The target population included construction project managers and site superintendents who had spent considerable time working in jobsite trailers. The qualitative data analysis highlighted the need for provision of efficient work spaces, natural light, nature views and noise control in trailers. Quantitative data collection showed that 73% of the respondents favored the idea of incorporating biophilic design in trailers.
Unravelling Safety Concerns in Construction: A Comprehensive Data Analysis
Authors: Piri Soroush , Panthi Kamalesh
Published: May 2024

Construction site hazards and safety concerns have been a longstanding issue within the industry. These concerns extend beyond immediate physical risks to workers and public safety. Ensuring safety in construction is pivotal, as it not only safeguards lives but also has a significant societal impact. Previous studies have explored various methods and strategies to enhance construction site safety. However, there remains a gap in understanding the intricate interplay between contributing factors, personal attributes, and accident occurrence. This research aims to fill this gap by employing advanced data analysis techniques, including text mining, time series, comparative, correlation analyses. In this regard, we present a novel approach to address construction site safety. We begin by manually collecting data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) accident reports and subsequently employ an automatic algorithm for data cleaning and extraction. The data we collect includes information on Gender, Age, Contributing factors, Cause of Death, Recommendations by experts, State, and Summary from these reports. Through these advanced data analysis techniques, we aim to identify the most effective strategies for reducing the occurrence of accidents in the construction industry, thereby improving overall safety performance.
Effect on Labor Productivity Due to Construction Digitalization: A Pilot Study
Authors: Adhikari Sanjeev , Ogbuagu Chidi , Langar Sandeep , Mosier Rachel
Published: May 2024

This research was conducted to analyze the impacts of the growing technology and implementation of Construction Digitalization with the 4th revolution in the construction industry and how it has affected labor productivity. Industry 4.0 is a formation of technologies that digitize, mechanize, and merge the construction process at different stages. With the growing trends of digitalization, there have been various predictions as to how this will positively or negatively affect the workforce for both skilled and unskilled labor. The negative effects have mainly been predicted to impact unskilled workers while slightly affecting skilled workers significantly. This research is aimed at determining the impacts of the adoption of digitalization on labor productivity. This study used an online survey method hosted by Qualtrics and was emailed to industry professionals and students in April 2023. The study also utilized literature reviews of articles related to the topic from 2010 until 2023 to analyze trends in the adoption of digitalization on labor productivity accurately. While the majority of respondents agreed that Construction 4.0 would be a great addition to the industry, the survey found that some companies still have not adopted the concept and did not have a plan for it. The literature review did not raise any major concern about the cost and suggested that any cost incurred would be offset in the long run. In conclusion, while this is a great concept, more research will need to be conducted before the concept is universally agreed upon.
Review of Fire Emergency Training using Virtual Reality
Authors: Karoti Poonam Mahadev , Adhikari Sanjeev
Published: May 2024

The severe destruction brought on by building fires is sometimes ascribed to several issues, including incomplete information and delayed decision-making, both of which can cause a situation to quickly escalate and make it more difficult to minimize the damage. Emergency evacuation exercises are essential for lessening the impacts of fires, but it's vital to remember that every building fire has a different set of challenges depending on the location, origin, and consequences of the fire. Because of this, utilizing specialized fire safety strategies and training programs may considerably boost the probability of effective mitigation and reduce the repercussions of these unforeseeable catastrophes. This essay offers a thorough analysis of cutting-edge innovations and less hazardous techniques that may be used to successfully reduce building fires. The intent is to contribute to the exploration and creation of more effective and sustainable fire safety measures and limiting the environmental impact by investigating and evaluating these cutting-edge approaches. The article will also go through conventional fire training techniques and give a thorough comparison with virtual reality (VR) fire emergency training methods, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy in terms of efficiency, expense, and accessibility.
Using Augmented Reality to Enhance Collaboration in Online Education
Authors: Tayeh Ralph , Albeaino Gilles , Bademosi Fopefoluwa
Published: May 2024

This study evaluated the impact of Augmented Reality (AR) on collaboration and problem-solving in online construction management education. The research was conducted with 60 students, and AR's effectiveness was compared with traditional visualization methods such as 2D and 3D models. The study utilized iPad and HoloLens for AR implementations. Using different visualization tools, participants worked in pairs and completed various construction-related tasks, including preconstruction, construction, and post-construction. The main focus was on measuring collaboration efficiency, task completion time, and accuracy, particularly emphasizing how AR can enhance online collaborative skills. The results of the ANOVA with repeated measures indicate that AR, primarily through the use of HoloLens, significantly improves collaboration compared to traditional methods. Although task completion accuracy remained the same across all methods, AR notably reduced the time required to complete tasks. These findings suggest that AR has the potential to significantly benefit online construction management education, offering a more interactive and practical learning experience. However, the study acknowledges certain limitations, such as excluding other visualization technologies and using AR devices in experiments. The research highlights the potential of AR to improve spatial and temporal understanding and collaboration in educational settings, especially in the field of construction management.
Ability to Create Construction Project Cost Estimates: Perception of the Global Academia
Authors: Pariafsai Fatemeh , Pariafsai Sadjad , Dixit Manish , Caffey Stephen , Lunt Bryan
Published: May 2024

The construction industry employs 7% of the global workforce and contributes 13% to the global Gross Domestic Product. In the United States, it significantly affects the lives of a substantial portion of the population. However, the industry grapples with challenges such as declining productivity, workplace safety, and work disputes, necessitating the intervention of construction project managers. To identify training gaps and link qualified construction project managers with relevant projects, it is necessary to understand the competencies required for construction project managers. Through a study, we identified 21 skills necessary for construction project managers and their associated knowledge areas and personality characteristics. To gauge the importance of these competencies, we developed a survey including 672 ranking questions, and proposed an innovative design framework for dividing the lengthy questionnaire to present 21 ranking questions to each participant randomly and evenly. Next, we collected the data from 2,016 academics in relevant fields worldwide. This paper highlights how crucial each knowledge area/personality characteristic is for the ability to create construction project cost estimates. The findings can assist the construction academia in directing their efforts toward key competency development areas, scaffolding courses, and planning curricula to the real needs of the worldwide workforce.
Data-driven Prediction of Dynamic Complex Modulus for Non-conventional Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Benson Annie , Jeong M. Myung , Jung Younghan
Published: May 2024

The dynamic modulus (|E*|) of asphalt mixtures is one of the main material characteristics that governs the quality of asphalt pavements in their design and construction. While the |E*| values are traditionally obtained from intensive laboratory testing or statistical predictive equations, this research attempted to apply several machine learning (ML) techniques to predict |E*|, especially for non- conventional asphalt mixtures. The study used 3906 lab-measured |E*| data points from different types of non-standard asphalt mixtures, such as recycled asphalt pavement, recycled asphalt shingles, warm mix asphalt, asphalt rubber, air-blown asphalt, and polymer-modified asphalt. Mixture temperature, loading frequency, aggregate gradation, mixture volumetric, and asphalt binder information were included as variables used in the ML techniques. Relative comparisons were made to answer the following question: which ML technique would provide a more accurate prediction for |E*| when non-conventional asphalt mixtures are considered in the design and construction? It was found that, among the five ML techniques used in the study, decision trees and random forests showed the best prediction capability. Linear regression showed the least accurate prediction. It was also found that the |E*| measured for asphalt-rubber asphalt mixtures was best predicted by ML techniques.
Spatial and Distance Discrepancies in Target-Based and Visual-Aligned LiDAR Models
Authors: Maldonado Gustavo , Maghiar Marcel , Loyed William
Published: May 2024

Today, static, terrestrial, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) instruments are becoming more affordable and ubiquitous in numerous professional areas, including civil engineering, construction, architecture, surveying, archeological sites, and manufacturing, to name a few. Individual applications often require a greater or lesser level of accuracy, and many can present tolerance constraints that may rule out some available methodologies. Since most applications require to stitch (register) multiple scans into a common coordinate system, it is critical to examine various existing popular registration approaches to form expectations of the accuracies they will yield. This work studies the relative accuracy of two final point-cloud models of the same spatial conditions. Each model uses a different scan-stitching approach, the Target-Based (TB) registration and the Visual- Aligned (VA) registration. For comparison purposes, both models are georeference into the same State-Plane coordinate system. Point positions and distances, extracted from both final LiDAR models, are compared against the same positions and distances acquired in the field by an accurate Robotic Total-Station (RTS) instrument. This article presents those discrepancies and concludes that the TB registration is, approximately, 3 to 4 times more accurate than the VA one, when modeling a 3.5-acre site, via a closed scanning loop, under the conditions described in this project.
Effectiveness of 3D Models in Estimating Course
Authors: Shim Euysup , Xie Haiyan
Published: May 2024

3-Dimensional (3D) Building Information Model (BIM) can help students’ learning in Construction Management (CM) courses. 3D models can help students visualize the information from plans in format of 2D into 3D. Due to this benefit, 3D models have been used in diverse CM courses, and the effectiveness of 3D models in diverse CM courses have been proven to be positive. However, the usage of 3D models in estimating courses has not been clearly proven by existing literatures. Furthermore, accurate estimating requires multiple estimating tasks starting with visualizing building components. There is no existing study on how effective the usage of 3D models is for each of the estimating sub-tasks. This study aimed to explore effectiveness of 3D models in estimating related tasks through students’ perception on effectiveness of 3D models in an estimating course at a 4-year college in the U.S. The results of this study show that overall, the 3D models were effective in all the estimating tasks. Also, ‘visualizing building components’, ‘locating building components’, and ‘identifying building components' are the estimating sub-tasks in which the 3D models were the most effective.
Development and Evaluation of an E-Tool for Human-Robot Interaction Safety Risk Assessment
Authors: Nnaji Chukwuma , Okpala Ifeanyi , Albeaino Gilles
Published: May 2024

The construction industry faces significant challenges in ensuring worker safety, health, and productivity. To address these challenges, recent research has focused on innovative approaches, including the adoption of Robotics and Automation (RA) technologies such as wearable robots, remotely operated robots, and on-site automated systems. These technologies offer potential solutions to enhance safety and productivity. However, their integration into construction lags behind other industries, partly due to the absence of standardized guidelines and concerns surrounding human-robot interaction (HRI) safety risks. This study introduces an electronic tool (e- tool) specifically designed for safety risk evaluation in RA applications within construction. Developed through a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review and a modified Delphi process, this tool aims to identify and mitigate HRI safety risks. It encompasses various mitigation strategies and aids in pre-task planning. The tool, named "Assessment of Human-Robot Interaction Safety Risks in Construction Operations," has been tested by industry stakeholders, demonstrating its effectiveness, clarity, and practicality. This significant development not only advances worker safety in RA but also contributes to improving overall work environments and productivity in the construction sector through the strategic integration of robotic technologies.
Use of Visual Dashboards in Construction Projects
Authors: Ghosh Somik , Mukherjee Nirmalya , McCuen Tammy
Published: May 2024

The increasing adoption of visual dashboards in the construction industry holds potential for improved project management, elevated communication, transparency, and decision-making. This study explores the utilization of visual dashboards in construction projects, analyzing strengths, limitations, and improvement opportunities. Surveying construction professionals with over five years of experience, the analysis identifies key features of effective visual dashboards, including real-time data, interactivity, user-friendliness, and customizability. Challenges include real-time data integration intricacies. Participants advocate for user-centric designs, comprehensive data tracking, and regular updates. Further research could investigate dashboards' impact on project performance, address integration challenges, and explore ethical considerations.
Adapting to Unforeseen Challenges: Changes in Force Majeure Clauses in State DOTs over a span of Five Years
Authors: Riccitelli Bryce , Lee Jung Hyun
Published: May 2024

Force majeure clauses are contractual provisions that excuse parties from performing their obligations under certain circumstances beyond their control. The rising frequency of unforeseen events, such as pandemics, global supply chain disruptions, and natural disasters, has highlighted the importance of the force majeure clause. The overarching goal of this study is to identify the event types that can trigger force majeure clauses and changes in contract languages in state departments of transportation (DOTs) over a span of five years. This study conducts a comparative content analysis of state DOT construction contract documents, including requests for proposals and agreements. The findings indicate that many DOTs include force majeure clauses in their contract documents. The study identifies 26 event types that can trigger force majeure clauses grouped into 8 categories in the past five years. This study contributes to enhancing the state of practice on force majeure clauses in public construction contracts. Furthermore, the findings on changes in contract languages are anticipated to benefit practitioners, especially those in the transportation infrastructure industry in the U.S., by providing the significance and implications of the force majeure clauses.
Structural Concerns in Minority Serving Institutions Delivering Online Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Education
Authors: Mosier Rachel , Sulbaran Tulio , Langar Sandeep , Adhikari Sanjeev
Published: May 2024

Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) aim to bring equity to education and support the development of a diverse workforce to address numerous challenges. COVID-19 significantly impacted academia and institutions, including MSI. This research focused on how AEC educators affiliated with MSI were impacted by Online Learning Environment (OLE) proficiency and technology associated with COVID-19 impacts. To determine how educators were affected, an electronic survey was sent to universities within the US. The survey was sent to two population sets of Construction educators and Architecture and Engineering educators, about six months apart. The survey queried AEC educators about their teaching experience, teaching load, proficiency in online content delivery, university policies, concerns over the online delivery of courses, and ability to deliver AEC education online. To determine differences between MSI and non-MSI respondents, the over 400 responses from the survey were compared with the 800 institutions classified as MSI. Quantitative analyses were performed on multiple choice questions, and qualitative analyses were performed on open-ended questions to identify the top three education concerns. Research previously determined concerns for delivering all online courses, like a lack of faculty-peer interaction and peer-to-peer interaction, and structural university-level concerns, but not from the MSI perspective which is required.
Experimental Analysis of Cognitive Load Risks in Employing Active Back-Support Exoskeleton in Construction
Authors: Okunola Akinwale , Akanmu Abiola , Jebelli Houtan
Published: May 2024

There is a growing interest in utilizing active back-support exoskeletons to address work-related musculoskeletal disorders in various industries, including construction. However, the unique characteristics of construction sites may impede the biomechanical advantages of active back- support exoskeletons by increasing users' cognitive load. This research focuses on assessing the impact of active back-support exoskeletons on cognitive load during a construction framing task. An experimental study, involving sixteen participants performing a simulated carpentry framing task with and without active back-support exoskeletons across six subtasks, was conducted. Participants’ brain activities were captured using Electroencephalography for the two experimental conditions. The differences between the conditions were analyzed using paired t-tests. The findings indicate that the use of active back-support exoskeletons significantly heightens cognitive load during measuring, assembly, nailing, and installing subtasks. These results emphasize the importance of developing adaptive active back-support exoskeletons tailored to the construction industry's specific needs, considering the distinct challenges of construction environments. Additionally, this study contributes to construction stakeholders' understanding of the psychological risks associated with active back-support exoskeletons use on construction sites.
Boot Camps: A Review of the Pedagogy in Construction Education with an Exploratory Study on Implementation in Industry
Authors: McCutcheon Scott
Published: May 2024

Educational content in the field of construction is delivered in numerous ways. One particular format is a type of short duration, intensive training known as a ‘Boot Camp’. Identifying the components of established industry boot camps to determine an idea of cost, content, format and method, and how these contribute to successful trainings will help facilitate the reproduction of these successes in other settings. This paper provides an overview of boot camps, including the various implementations across academia and industry. It utilizes the experiences of the author attending two separate industry boot camps, and the deployment of a brief survey in an attempt to determine the prevalence, format, and successful implementation of boot camp style trainings in industry settings. The initial results from the survey are limited, but coupled with the in-person observations made, a preliminary indication of implementation in industry is observed.