bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concomitant polymorphic behavior of di-μ-thiocyanato-κ2
N:S;κ2
S:N-bis[bis(tri-p-fluorophenylphosphine-κP)silver(I)]
Authors: Omondi Bernard , Meijboom Reinout
Published: January 2010

The structures of two polymorphs, both monoclinic P21/n [polymorph (I)] and P21/c [polymorph (II)], of di-μ-thiocyanato-κ2
N:S;κ2
S:N-bis[bis(tri-p-fluorophenylphosphine-κP)silver(I)] complexes have been determined at 100 K. In both polymorphs the complex has a dinuclear structure where the silver(I) coordinates to two phosphine ligands and two bridging thiocyanate anions to form complexes with distorted tetrahedral geometry. Polymorph (I) has just one half of the [Ag2(SCN)2{P(4-FC6H4)3}4] molecule at (0, ½, 0) from the origin in the asymmetric unit. Polymorph (II) has one and a half molecules of [Ag2(SCN)2{P(4-FC6H4)3}4] in the asymmetric unit; the half molecule is situated at (0, 1, ½), while the full molecule is located at (1/3, ½, 1/3) from the origin. The Ag—P bond distances range from 2.4437 (4) to 2.4956 (7) Å in both polymorphs. The Ag—S distances are 2.5773 (7) Å in (I) and 2.5457 (5), 2.5576 (5) and 2.5576 (5) Å in (II). The full molecule in polymorph (II) has slightly shorter Ag—N bond distances [2.375 (1) and 2.367 (2) Å] compared with the half molecules in both polymorphs [2.409 (2) Å in (II) and 2.395 (2) Å in (I)]. The two polymorphs are compared using r.m.s. overlay calculations as well as half-normal probability plot analysis.
Orientational disorder and phase transitions in crystals of dioxofluoromolybdate, (NH4)2MoO2F4
Authors: Udovenko Anatoly A. , Vasiliev Alexander D. , Laptash Natalia M.
Published: January 2010

Dioxotetrafluoromolybdate, (NH4)2MoO2F4, was synthesized in a single-crystal form and its structures [(I) at 297 K and (II) at 223 K] were determined by X-ray diffraction. Two independent states of a cis-MoO2F4 octahedron are characteristic of static and dynamic disorder in structure (I). The dynamically disordered Mo atom is displaced from the symmetry axis producing four possible orientations of an anion that allow O and F atoms to be identified in separate orientations owing to the inherent differences between the Mo—O and Mo—F bonding. After the phase transition at lower temperature, (I) transforms into the statically disordered structure (II) with three possible orientations of the cis-MoO2F4 octahedron. In this case, it also seemed possible to distinguish between O and F atoms on a local scale. H atoms of two independent NH4 groups in (II) which form bifurcated N—H...F(O) hydrogen bonds were localized.
A list of organic kryptoracemates
Authors: Fábián László , Brock Carolyn Pratt
Published: January 2010

A list of 181 organic kryptoracemates has been compiled. This class of crystallographic oddities is made up of racemic compounds (i.e. pairs of resolvable enantiomers) that happen to crystallize in Sohnke space groups (i.e. groups that include only proper symmetry operations). Most (151) of the 181 structures could have crystallized as ordered structures in non-Sohnke groups. The remaining 30 structures do not fully meet this criterion but would have been classified as kryptoracemates by previous authors. Examples were found and checked with the aid of available software for searching the Cambridge Structural Database, for generating and comparing InChI strings, and for validating crystal structures. The pairs of enantiomers in the true kryptoracemates usually have very similar conformations; often the match is near-perfect. There is a pseudosymmetric relationship of the enantiomers in about 60% of the kryptoracemate structures, but the deviations from inversion or glide symmetry are usually quite easy to spot. Kryptoracemates were found to account for 0.1% of all organic structures containing either a racemic compound, a meso molecule, or some other achiral molecule. The centroid of a pair of enantiomers is more likely (99.9% versus 99% probability) to be located on an inversion center than is the centroid of a potentially centrosymmetric molecule.
A complicated quasicrystal approximant ∊16predicted by the strong-reflections approach
Authors: Li Mingrun , Sun Junliang , Oleynikov Peter , Hovmöller Sven , Zou Xiaodong , Grushko Benjamin
Published: January 2010

The structure of a complicated quasicrystal approximant ∊16was predicted from a known and related quasicrystal approximant ∊6by the strong-reflections approach. Electron-diffraction studies show that in reciprocal space, the positions of the strongest reflections and their intensity distributions are similar for both approximants. By applying the strong-reflections approach, the structure factors of ∊16were deduced from those of the known ∊6structure. Owing to the different space groups of the two structures, a shift of the phase origin had to be applied in order to obtain the phases of ∊16. An electron-density map of ∊16was calculated by inverse Fourier transformation of the structure factors of the 256 strongest reflections. Similar to that of ∊6, the predicted structure of ∊16contains eight layers in each unit cell, stacked along thebaxis. Along thebaxis, ∊16is built by banana-shaped tiles and pentagonal tiles; this structure is confirmed by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The simulated precession electron-diffraction (PED) patterns from the structure model are in good agreement with the experimental ones. ∊16with 153 unique atoms in the unit cell is the most complicated approximant structure ever solved or predicted.
Polysomatic apatites
Authors: Baikie Tom , Pramana Stevin S. , Ferraris Cristiano , Huang Yizhong , Kendrick Emma , Knight Kevin S. , Ahmad Zahara , White T. J.
Published: January 2010

Certain complex structures are logically regarded as intergrowths of chemically or topologically discrete modules. When the proportions of these components vary systematically a polysomatic series is created, whose construction provides a basis for understanding defects, symmetry alternation and trends in physical properties. Here, we describe the polysomatic familyA5NB3NO9N + 6XNδ(2 ≤N≤ ∞) that is built by condensingNapatite modules (A5B3O18Xδ) in configurations to createBnO3n + 1(1 ≤n≤ ∞) tetrahedral chains. Hydroxyapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] typifies a widely studied polysome whereN= 2 and the tetrahedra are isolated inA10(BO4)6X2compounds, butN= 3A15(B2O7)3(BO4)3X3(ganomalite) andN= 4A20(B2O7)6X4(nasonite) are also known, with theXsite untenanted or partially occupied as required for charge balance. The apatite modules, while topologically identical, are often compositionally or symmetrically distinct, and an infinite number of polysomes is feasible, generally with the restriction being that anA:B= 5:3 cation ratio be maintained. The end-members are theN= 2 polysome with all tetrahedra separated, andN= ∞, in which the hypothetical compoundA5B3O9Xcontains infinite, corner-connected tetrahedral strings. The principal characteristics of a polysome are summarized using the nomenclatureapatite-(A B X)-NS, whereA/B/Xare the most abundant species in these sites,Nis the number of modules in the crystallographic repeat, andSis the symmetry symbol (usuallyH,T,MorA). This article examines the state-of-the-art in polysomatic apatite synthesis and crystallochemical design. It also presents X-ray and neutron powder diffraction investigations for several polysome chemical series and examines the prevalence of stacking disorder by electron microscopy. These insights into the structure-building principles of apatite polysomes will guide their development as functional materials.
Revision of the structure of Cs2CuSi5O12 leucite as orthorhombic Pbca
Authors: Bell A. M. T. , Knight K. S. , Henderson C. M. B. , Fitch A. N.
Published: January 2010

The crystal structure of a hydrothermally synthesized leucite analogue Cs2CuSi5O12 has been determined and refined using the Rietveld method from high-resolution synchrotron X-ray and neutron powder diffraction data. This structure is based on the topology and cation-ordering scheme of the Pbca leucite structure of Cs2CdSi5O12, and exhibits five ordered Si sites and one ordered Cu tetrahedrally coordinated (T) site. This structure for Cs2CuSi5O12 is topologically identical to other known leucite structures and is different from that originally proposed by Heinrich & Baerlocher [(1991), Acta Cryst. C47, 237–241] in the tetragonal space group P4_12_12. The crystal structure of a dry-synthesized leucite analogue Cs2CuSi5O12 has also been refined; this has the Ia\bar 3d cubic pollucite structure with disordered T sites.
Encounters between foreigners and Chinese
Authors: Yean Yng Ling Florence , Ming Hsia Ang Amber , Su Yu Lim Shallene
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The aim of this research is to investigate how foreign (non‐mainland Chinese) architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals manage cross‐cultural encounters with mainland Chinese in the construction industry. The specific objectives are to identify perceived cultural differences between Chinese and foreigners when executing construction projects, based on the perceptions of foreign personnel only; and recommend a framework to manage cross‐cultural encounters between foreigners and Chinese.

Design/methodology/approach

The data collection instrument was a questionnaire, which had open‐ended questions. The data collection method was face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews with 19 foreign AEC practitioners who had worked with Chinese in construction projects in mainland China. The majority of these projects were located in Shanghai.

Findings

The main perceived differences were: the absence of team spirit in Chinese staff; the need to micro‐manage Chinese staff; the lack of initiative in Chinese staff; difficulty in communicating with Chinese staff; the absence of trust among the Chinese and by Chinese of foreigners; Chinese firms' attempts at recovery of under‐pricing following contract award; ease of settling disputes with Chinese; lack of safety and quality culture; and prevalence of networking culture. Several methods to manage cross‐cultural encounters are identified. Among these, most of the interviewees practiced adaptability, mimicry and mindfulness, which involved paying attention, being watchful and attentive. They also relied on their knowledge and experience of Chinese culture.

Research limitations/implications

The findings may not be readily generalized because interviews were conducted with only 19 foreign AEC professionals, many of who are from Singapore and had worked primarily in Shanghai. The small number of interviewees may be unrepresentative of the population.

Practical implications

Foreign firms could use the findings to help them decide on some of the methods to overcome cultural differences.

Originality/value

The research proposed a framework for foreign firms to use when managing cross‐cultural encounters with Chinese. It recommends different measures to manage cross‐cultural encounters between foreigners and Chinese.
Organizational culture: the case of Turkish construction industry
Authors: Oney‐Yazıcı Ela , Giritli Heyecan , Topcu‐Oraz Gulfer , Acar Emrah
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The main stimulus of this study is to examine the cultural profile of construction organizations within the context of Turkish construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a part of a cross‐cultural research, initiated by CIB W112 (Working Commission W112 of the International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction), concurrently ongoing in 15 different countries. Data were collected from 107 contracting and 27 architectural firms, by means of a questionnaire based on OCAI (Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument), a well‐known and widely used measurement tool developed by Cameron and Quinn (1999).

Findings

The findings show that the Turkish construction industry has been dominated by firms with a mixture of clan and hierarchy cultures. In addition, the analysis reported here indicates cultural differences at organizational level in terms of firm type, size, and age.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the understanding of organizational culture in the construction industry by providing empirical evidence from the Turkish construction industry. As future research direction, it highlights the need of a cross‐cultural comparison among different countries, and an investigation of the effects of cultural profiles of the organizational members on organizational culture.
Integration of information and communication technology
Authors: Gajendran Thayaparan , Brewer Graham
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Although the deployment of information and communication technology (ICT) in the construction industry is widespread recent research indicates that the surrounding contextual issues hinder its successful application in many project settings. This paper aims to develop a framework for the analysis of organisational culture in respect of ICT implementation across an organisation in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

An re‐analysis of critical success factors (CSF) for ICT integration, identified through data from a Delphi study of industry experts and a questionnaire survey of ICT users, using Martin's three‐perspective framework applying both the functional and non‐functional approaches to cultural analysis was conducted.

Findings

The research revealed the theoretical dimensions and properties of organisational culture that influence CSFs for ICT integration in construction projects teams. This paper concludes by highlighting the influence of the organisation's culture, manifested though the nature and extent of shared understanding, on the likely success of ICT implementation.

Originality/value

The deployment of ICT without appropriate consideration of contextual issues, in particular, organisational culture, will be likely to generate disappointing results. The framework presented in this paper provides a rigorous foundation for consideration of such issues.
Case studies on knowledge sharing across cultural boundaries
Authors: Dulaimi Mohammed F.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The aim of this paper is investigate using case studies, how knowledge is shared across cultural barriers in the context of construction projects executed as international joint ventures. The paper focused on the socio‐technical perspective to develop a clear understanding of how knowledge is shared.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted the case study approach to collect its data. Data was collected through face‐to‐face interviews with key people on four construction projects executed as joint ventures in Singapore.

Findings

The case studies showed weaknesses on all levels of the adopted knowledge‐sharing model. The main reason seems to be the lack of clear commitment and intent to create an environment that is conducive to knowledge sharing. Another major barrier to effective knowledge sharing was the incompatibility between the foreign and local cultures.

Research limitations/implications

The generalisation of the findings may be limited due to the impact of differing national cultures on knowledge sharing and the fact that in three out of four case studies the foreign firm was Japanese in partnership with a local Singaporean firm.

Practical implications

Firms involved in international joint ventures who aim to share knowledge with a foreign partner can use the findings of this research to create opportunities to achieving their aim.

Originality/value

The research adapted a research model and provided a research method that can aid researchers examine knowledge management and knowledge sharing in construction projects. The paper provides construction firms with a framework for action to enhance their knowledge sharing.
Collaborative relationships in construction: the UK contractors' perception
Authors: Akintoye Akintola , Main Jamie
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe UK contractors' perceptions of collaborative relationships in construction.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a UK wide postal questionnaire survey, the opinions of contractors were assessed on reasons for collaborative relationships and the factors that are responsible for the success and failure of collaborative relationships in construction development. The respondents were split into two groups (SME's and large) based on their number of employees, to determine whether their responses varied with size as part of the analysis. Statistical analyses, based on Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and factor analysis technique were used to investigate the cluster of relationships.

Findings

The research shows that UK contractors are positive about collaboration and are engaged in collaborative relationships for construction developments. Factor analysis shows that the principal reasons why contractors are involved in collaborative relationships are for risk sharing, access to innovation and technology, response to market, resource efficiency and client requirements. The principal success factors are commitment of adequate resources from the partners, equity of relationship, recognition of the importance of non‐financial benefits and clarity of objectives while the principal failure factors are lack of trust and consolation and lack of experience and business fit.

Practical implications

Drawing from the findings, the study confirms that construction collaborative relationships are customer driven with very little consideration for competitors, suppliers and subcontractors although a a true collaborative relationship should take into account all the parties involved in construction development supply and demand chains to reap the full benefits.

Originality/value

The paper makes an original contribution of exploring the area of relationships in construction in the UK from the contractors point‐of‐view. The contents within the paper will be of interest to those working within the field.
Using mobile computing for construction site information management
Authors: Chen Yuan , Kamara John M.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for the use of mobile computing in the management of on‐site construction information and communication.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy contains three steps: a pilot study for the first stage, a survey that investigated the information needs of particular users and the nature of on‐site information, and finally the development of a model and the validation and evaluation by operational scenarios.

Findings

The developed model explores how mobile computing can be used on construction sites to manage on‐site information. This model, firstly, identifies the key factors of mobile computer, wireless network, mobile application, construction personnel, construction information, and construction site; secondly it describes the relationships and interactions among these factors. Based on the model, the selection process for mobile computing strategy includes the clarification of information management process, the creations of overview for mobile computing solution, the identification of mobile computing strategy, and the selection of appropriate mobile computing technology.

Originality/value

The developed model explores the general concepts and the internal relationships at the two areas of mobile computing and construction site information management. The application of the model can help users to select mobile computing strategies for managing on‐site construction information based on the characteristics of their projects.
New approaches to solving the skills shortages in the New Zealand construction industry
Authors: Lobo Yadeed B. , Wilkinson Suzanne
Published: January 2010

Purpose

In the light of international skills shortages at different levels of the construction industry, this research assesses solutions to skills shortages in the construction industry drawing on research from New Zealand.

Design/methodology/approach

The way in which the research objectives were achieved was a mix of qualitative and quantitative research. Grounded theory technique was used in the research.

Findings

New Zealand currently uses a variety of techniques to tackle construction industry skills shortages, such as increased wages, overseas recruitment and reformatting training requirements, but still there is a shortage of skilled and semi‐skilled workers for the construction industry. The results of the in‐depth interviews of leading practitioners in New Zealand show how different sectors – government, education and industry – provide different solutions but that ultimately a joint focus on education and training will have the biggest long‐term impact on skills shortages.

Practical implications

The paper serves as an illustration to other countries on how New Zealand is solving the construction industry skills shortages. These solutions have practical implications for other countries.

Originality/value

The research provides an original assessment of the types of shortages faced in New Zealand and the ways in which they can be solved.
A building material evaluation and selection model for the Turkish construction sector
Authors: Tas Elcin , Yaman Hakan , Tanacan Leyla
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The research project called “Designing a building material relational database management system for Turkish construction sector”, aims to join “supply side” and “demand side” in the same environment that works on the subject of building material information in the Turkish construction sector. The paper aims to discuss the project findings.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from the information supplied and demanded from the points of sources, levels and frequency of updating by the help of the questionnaires conducted. The data gathered were integrated into the pre‐construction stage and used in the analysis of the process as to how this information was used by the “demand side” for building material information. IDEF‐0, a structured methodology for functional process analysis, is used to figure out building material evaluation and selection processes in the pre‐construction stage.

Findings

Material evaluation and selection process for the pre‐construction stage is figured out. Behaviors and requirements of demand‐side and supply‐side in building material information is studied. Difficulties in supplying and presenting building material information in Turkey are evaluated.

Originality/value

Although the subject of the paper is well‐known, Turkish practices and problems are evaluated, and an alternative model is suggested for the Turkish construction sector.
Performance and leadership outcome correlates of leadership styles and subordinate commitment
Authors: Limsila Kedsuda , Ogunlana Stephen O.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

This study aims to examine how project managers' leadership styles and subordinates' organisational commitment correlates with leadership outcomes and work performance of subordinates on construction projects. It provides significant value for both practitioners and academics. On the practical side, it seeks to inform project managers that they can adapt their leadership behaviours in order to enhance subordinates' organizational commitment, improve work performance, and consequently increase a positive working atmosphere. Academically, the study aims to provide additional insights into the leadership field by contributing to the future development of this study area.

Design/methodology/approach

Leadership styles and leadership outcomes were measured using Bass and Avolio's multifactor leadership questionnaire (MLQ). Porter et al.'s organizational commitment questionnaire (OCQ) was used to measure organizational commitment of subordinates. A total of 156 respondents (project managers, engineers and architects) working in construction projects in Thailand participated in the study.

Findings

The transformational leadership style has a positive association with work performance and organizational commitment of subordinates more than the transactional style. Transformational leaders produce higher leadership outcomes as well.

Practical implications

By applying the results in practice, project managers can adjust their leadership behaviours to support subordinates in producing high work performance and increasing leadership outcomes, whereas the human resource management function of construction companies can also utilize these results for the leadership development effort in their organization.

Originality/value

This paper is the first attempt to understand the influence of transformational, transactional and laissez‐faire leadership factors on leadership outcomes and work performance from subordinates in the construction industry in Thailand.
Job satisfaction of South African quantity surveyors
Authors: Bowen Paul , Cattell Keith
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the significance of the relationship between job satisfaction experienced by South African quantity surveyors and demographic factors, workplace characteristics, choice of career, and instances of harassment and discrimination at work.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained via a web‐based national questionnaire survey of the registered quantity surveyors. The results were analysed in order to establish the degree of significance between perceived levels of job satisfaction and the identified factors.

Findings

Demographic factors found to have a significant relationship with job satisfaction are gender and race. Workplace characteristics such as feelings of personal satisfaction, recognition, the opportunity to undertake challenging work and non‐repetitive work, the degree of supervision, participation in decision making, and the opportunity for social interaction at work were found to be significantly associated with job satisfaction. Significant career choice factors include the fulfilment of career expectations, a willingness to choose the same career again, and a willingness to recommend the career to others. Discrimination on the basis of gender and religious affiliation were found to have a significant relationship with job satisfaction.

Originality/value

Little is known about the job satisfaction of design team professionals, particularly quantity surveyors. The findings provide indicators for managers of quantity surveying practices to facilitate improved job satisfaction amongst professional staff.
Selecting an architecture‐engineering team by using fuzzy set theory
Authors: Nguyen T.H. , Shehab T. , Gao Z.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Selecting the most appropriate architecture‐engineering (AE) team, one of the most significant decisions leading to the successful completion of a construction project, is usually conducted in a multi‐criteria environment, which is mostly dependent on the subjective judgment of decision makers and is influenced by the uncertainty and vagueness of each individual construction project. This paper aims to present an assessment method to evaluate the capability of an AE team with respect to the criteria defined by decision makers.

Design/methodology/approach

In addition to a proposed tender price, the evaluation of potential AE teams should be also based on other criteria such as its financial soundness, experience, expertise, availability, and compatibility of personality. A selection model is developed, in which different decision criteria and its subcriteria, and their combinations are simultaneously taken into account by using the concept of fuzzy set theory. An illustrative example is also provided in the paper to demonstrate the application of the model and its assessment method in selecting the most appropriate AE team for a construction project.

Findings

The study results show that the proposed evaluation model allows decision makers to express their opinions about the performances of AE bidders using more realistic qualitative and linguistic terms and the fuzzy decision making method is an appropriate tool that can assist decision makers to better evaluate AE bidders' qualifications and select the best firm so that the risk to the project failure is minimized.

Research limitations/implications

While the proposed method is a useful tool for selection of the most appropriate AE team for construction projects, it should be simply used as a guide in reviewing the qualifications of different AE candidate firms and the final decision should be made in accordance with the ultimate goal of the project owner.

Originality/value

The model is proven suitable for quantifying imprecise information, reasoning, and making decisions based on vague and incomplete data.
Health and safety issues relating to construction excavators and their attachments
Authors: Edwards David J. , Holt Gary D.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

In striving to minimise downtime and optimise the productivity of construction excavators, very often, they employ a “quick‐hitch” (Qh) as a means of changing attachments (like buckets) more quickly. Health and safety issues can relate to Qh use. The purpose of this paper is to observe these health and safety issues and consider their implications for stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Triangulation, embracing a literature review; case studies; and the researchers' experiential knowledge, is employed to examine the nature and prevalence of Qh health and safety incidents.

Findings

It is confirmed that significant risks are associated with (inappropriate) Qh use, especially relating to “manual” and “semi‐automatic” types. The main causes of Qh incidents are observed to be due to workers' acts or omissions, particularly, failure to properly implement safety mechanisms.

Practical implications

An identified emphasis on “people” and their actions, suggest a need for changes in construction working methods and management practice, as ways to help remove Qh risks. Accordingly, proffered solutions relate predominantly to improved worker training, combined with stricter site management. Mechanical solutions may involve possible changes to Qh design.

Originality/value

This specific area of academic plant management study is novel.
ToolSHeDTM
Authors: Cooke Tracy , Lingard Helen , Blismas Nick , Stranieri Andrew
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe an innovative information and decision support tool (ToolSHeD™) developed to help construction designers to integrate the management of OHS risk into the design process. The underlying structure of the prototype web‐based system and the process of knowledge acquisition and modelling are described.

Design/methodology/approach

The ToolSHeD™ research and development project involved the capture of expert reasoning regarding design impacts upon occupational health and safety (OHS) risk. This knowledge was structured using an innovative method well‐suited to modelling knowledge in the context of uncertainty and discretionary decision‐making. Example “argument trees” are presented, representing the reasoning used by a panel of experts to assess the risk of falling from height during roof maintenance work. The advantage of using this method for modelling OHS knowledge, compared to the use of simplistic rules, is discussed

Findings

The ToolSHeD™ prototype development and testing reveals that argument trees can represent design safety risk knowledge effectively.

Practical implications

The translation of argument trees into a web‐based decision support tool is described and the potential impact of this tool in providing construction designers (architects and engineers) with easy and inexpensive access to expert OHS knowledge is discussed.

Originality/value

The paper describes a new computer application, currently undergoing testing in the Australian building and construction industry. Its originality lies in the fact that ToolSHeD™ deploys argument trees to represent expert OHS reasoning, overcoming inherent limitations in rule‐based expert systems.
Taking leadership research into future
Authors: Toor Shamas‐ur‐Rehman , Ofori George
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Researchers have traditionally focused on the technical and managerial features of construction projects and have tended to ignore the subject of leadership. However, recent interest in the subject has resulted in global research initiatives that aspire to provide an understanding of leadership in a holistic manner. To further the research on the subject, it is important to review the existing body of knowledge and draft a road map for the future. For this purpose, a review of empirical works on leadership in the construction industry was carried out.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 49 studies were selected through a rigorous process. To summarize the findings, coding was done according to publication outlet, authors, nature of study, country of publication, target population, methodology, and key findings.

Findings

It was found that most of the empirical studies have focused on behavioral dimensions of leadership while paying less attention to several other important dimensions, particularly leadership development. Most studies were cross‐sectional in nature and used quantitative methods of analysis. It was also noted that these studies focused on a limited range theories presented in the mainstream.

Originality/value

The review presented here summarizes the empirical research on leadership in the construction industry. The paper details various past trends, predicts some future trends, and suggests certain areas in which future research on leadership in the construction industry could focus.

Research limitations/implications

It is suggested that leadership studies need to be improved in terms of methodological approach, level of analysis, developmental perspective of leadership, and objective measurement of leadership outcomes.

Originality/value

The paper predicts some future trends and suggests certain areas in which future research on leadership in the construction industry could focus.
Trends of skills and productivity in the UK construction industry
Authors: Abdel‐Wahab Mohamed S. , Dainty Andrew R.J. , Ison Stephen G. , Bowen Patrick , Hazlehurst Guy
Published: January 2010

Purpose

UK government policy has emphasised the role of skills development and training as a means of improving productivity performance across all sectors of the economy. The purpose of this paper is to assess the appropriateness of this policy within the context of the construction industry, in light of the recently published statistics.

Design/methodology/approach

A trend analysis of construction productivity (measured by Gross Value Added/worker) and skills indicators (qualification attainment and training) was conducted over the period 1995‐2006.

Findings

There is inconsistency in the industry's productivity performance, despite the overall increase in qualification attainment levels and participation rates in training over the same period. However, the year‐on‐year change in the participation rate of training was not consistently associated with an improvement in productivity performance.

Originality/value

It is argued that the effective utilisation of skills rather than mere increase in the supply of skills is a key to bringing about productivity improvements. Indeed future policy makers decisions should focus on addressing other influences on productivity performance such as work organisation and management practice to support further development and progression of the UK construction industry.
Lost in transition: the transfer of lean manufacturing to construction
Authors: Jørgensen Bo , Emmitt Stephen
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the transfer of lean manufacturing/production from the Japanese manufacturing industry to the construction sector in the west.

Design/methodology/approach

Research literature from the fields of lean manufacturing/production and lean construction was reviewed. This revealed a number of characteristics that are specific to lean construction, most notably the recognition that critical research findings have been slow to emerge but appear to be gaining momentum.

Findings

In the transition from manufacturing to construction the process losses appear to be related to critical aspects and the challenges surrounding practical application to a different context. Lean is highly interpretive and there is no shared definition or understanding of what is meant by lean, lean production, and lean construction. The focus has been mainly on production system design, planning and management, and implementation. This narrow focus has meant that some important issues concerning the wider aspects of lean have been overlooked. There is a need for a “back to basics” discussion on many other aspects of the approach, such as whole‐life value and waste identification.

Research limitations/implications

The work is limited to an extensive literature review.

Originality/value

The extensive literature review makes an original contribution to the lean construction field and provides a valuable resource for researchers.
Internationalizing quantity surveying services
Authors: Yean Yng Ling Florence , Hui Min Chan Amy
Published: January 2010

Purpose

With the advent of globalization, consultancy firms could easily offer services outside their home countries. This study aims to investigate how quantity surveying (QS) firms in Singapore internationalize their services, by examining the unique characteristics of exporting firms, the forces that drive them to export and the strategies they adopt in internationalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The research method is based on a structured questionnaire and data were collected via postal survey. Questionnaires were sent to all 47 QS firms operating in Singapore. A total of 25 responses were received.

Findings

The results show that QS firms that offer services overseas have more staff than non‐exporters, handle larger projects and offer a wider range of services. In addition, these firms are focused on generating additional revenue and conduct their own market research to secure overseas contracts. They enter foreign countries first as wholly owned foreign subsidiaries and later on form joint ventures with firms in the host country.

Originality/value

The finding suggests that to internationalize, firms need to be of a critical size in terms of staff strength. They must offer integrated and other value added services. To secure more overseas projects, firms should undertake aggressive marketing, collect market data in host countries, instead of relying on published information. Many projects were won through past and present clients' recommendations. To win more overseas contracts, it is recommended that QS firms form close relationships with clients who are best placed to give referrals or repeat business.
System dynamics modelling of machine downtime for small to medium highway contractors
Authors: Prasertrungruang Thanapun , Hadikusumo B.H.W.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Downtime resulting from equipment failure is a major problem consistently faced in highway construction. Since managing construction equipment is tightly connected to various activities and parties inside as well as outside of the firm, failure to account for this fact invariably causes downtime to be even more severe. Variation in equipment management practices is thus, indeed, a root cause of the dynamics of machine downtime. This study is intended to address key dynamic features of heavy equipment management practices and downtime in small to medium highway contracting firms and propose policies for equipment performance improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

Face‐to‐face interviews with equipment managers from five different small to medium highway construction companies in Thailand were conducted. Data were analysed using a system dynamics (SD) simulation approach.

Findings

To overcome downtime problems, contractors need to understand the dynamics of downtime as well as its influential factors, and thus manage their equipment as a dynamic process rather than one that is static. Based on the simulation, various policies are proposed to improve the performance of heavy equipment for small to medium highway contractors.

Originality/value

The research is of value in facilitating better understanding on the dynamics of equipment management practices and downtime as well as their interdependency.
A mathematical‐based model for company‐level budgeting incorporating future unknown contracts
Authors: Kaka Ammar P. , Khosrowshahi F.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

One of the main challenges facing construction contractors is incorporating future unknown contracts into their annual financial budgets. This paper sets out to review current academic work in this area and to argue that computer‐based simulation techniques are too complex to be adopted in the industry. Therefore, an alternative and a mathematically‐based technique needs to be developed and evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes that, as the pattern of winning construction contracts lacks any seasonality, it may be possible to assume all future work to be starting at one point in time and, by using an average standard value build‐up curve, average duration and the total value work needed, contractors will be able to estimate the total value of contracts needed to achieve a target turnover. Based on the total value of contracts to be won, a proposed mathematical equation is then used to assess the levels of working capital requirements.

Findings

The paper evaluates the proposed mathematical model through a series of hypothetical scenarios (developed using a detailed and tested computer‐based simulation model). Results demonstrated the validity and reliability of the models.

Research limitations/implications

The working capital element of the proposed model applies to construction projects where traditional payment mechanisms have been applied (interim payments based on measurements).

Practical implications

The model is very practical in nature and will allow construction companies (particularly large ones) to assess the level of work (in terms of number and values of contracts) they will need to win for them to meet targets for turnover. The model also allows contractors to assess the associated level of funding required.

Originality/value

The mathematical model developed allows contractors to incorporate into their budgets future unknown contracts without the need for computer simulation.
Critical evaluation of road infrastructure in India: a cross‐country view
Authors: Sharma A.K. , Vohra Ekta
Published: January 2010

Purpose

This study aims to examine the current status of road infrastructure in India, working out the gap in the availability of required length and the quality of roads besides the comparison with other economies. It also seeks to analyse the socio‐economic‐political environment in India to assess the country's attractiveness towards private sector participation in road infrastructure development.

Design/methodology/approach

The targets for the road sector development set by the Government of India and the current road status of China are taken as benchmarks to enumerate the existing gap in road development in the country. Growth trends of the road sector and their impact on the manufacturing sector have been worked out to assess the development of road infrastructure and its impact on the industry in the country.

Findings

The study advocates that the present pace of road infrastructure development is inadequate in India vis‐à‐vis other developing economies. The quality of roads compared with China is far below expectations and this poor hinterland connectivity is affecting the trade growth in the country.

Originality/value

The paper significantly contributes in assessing the state of road infrastructure in India and highlighting the weaknesses while comparing it with other developing and developed economies. The key issues identified are of immense help to the policy makers in the country for having detailed insight and correcting the road infrastructure development programmes.
A decision‐making system for accelerating roadway construction
Authors: Goodrum Paul M. , Wan Yinggang , Fenouil Philippe C.
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the way in which State Transportation Agencies throughout the USA are under increasing pressure to preserve and expand the nation's roadway infrastructure in the shortest possible time with only a finite pool of resources with which to meet a state's transportation needs. With this in mind, a rapid construction methods decision‐making system was developed, to be used during the preliminary and conceptual design stage of a roadway project.

Design/methodology/approach

The research completed an extensive literature review and examined case studies to identify rapid construction methods and summarize valuable lessons learned. Designed for use by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the research developed a series of conceptual road user cost (RUC) tables that reflect different socioeconomic conditions by varying the value of time based on average hourly per capita income and wages for different counties in Kentucky.

Findings

The case studies identified that the most effective mean for State Transportation Agencies to accelerate construction is through their construction contracts. Furthermore, determining RUC as outlined in the research way simplifies the method of calculating RUC by using fewer variables than would typically be available during the preliminary and conceptual design stage.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed decision‐making model is designed for State Transportation Agencies who are involved in the scenarios of determining the value of accelerating construction in both an urban and rural environments.

Practical implications

The project's intent in determining conceptual road user costs is to support a decision‐making process to identify the need and type of rapid construction methods for any given project.

Originality/value

A specific decision‐making process is proposed, and it uses the ratios of the Conceptual Road User Cost to the Maximum Allowable Road User Cost and a set of additional criteria based on project features to recommend a selection of rapid construction methods for a given highway project.
Supporting pre‐tender construction planning with virtual prototyping
Authors: Baldwin Andrew , Li Heng , Huang Ting , Kong C.W. , Guo H.L. , Chan Neo , Wong Johnny
Published: January 2010

Purpose

Virtual prototyping technologies linked to building information models are commonplace within the aeronautical and automotive industries. Their use within the construction industry is now emerging. The purpose of this paper is to show how these technologies have been adopted on the pre‐tender planning for a typical construction project.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology taken was an “action research” approach where the researchers and developers were actively involved in the production of the virtual prototypes on behalf of the contractor thereby gaining consistent access to the decisions of the planning staff. The experiences from the case study were considered together with similar research on other construction projects.

Findings

The findings from the case studies identify the role of virtual prototyping in components modelling, site modelling, construction equipment modelling, temporary works modelling, construction method visualization and method verification processes.

Originality/value

The paper presents a state‐of‐the‐art review and discusses the implications for the tendering process as these technologies are adopted. The adoption of the technologies will lead to new protocols and changes in the procurement of buildings and infrastructure.