bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the role of metaphor in conceptual models for end‐user training
Authors: Blakey Peter , Phillips Chris , Bunnell Julie
Published: June 2010

It has been suggested that conceptual models can be used to enhance the training of novice end‐users. This paper discusses the part played by metaphor in conceptual models, provides examples of end‐user training incorporating metaphors, and contends that metaphors facilitate the development of accurate mental models. The more specific issue of the role of conceptual models, and by implication metaphor, in the training of end‐users remains to be investigated, and a research agenda for this purpose is outlined.
A functional programming approach for macro development
Authors: Standing Craig , Roy Geoffrey G.
Published: June 2010

Developing macro queries in software systems is a complex task for many users. Geographical information systems (GIS) are large software systems that require much effort to develop expertise in. A functional programming design approach has a number of distinct strengths that can be represented in a graphical query language interface to aid users in macro query development. A visual functional query language (VFQL) for Geographical Information Systems is presented and its strengths and weaknesses discussed. The system is based on a visual functional programming design approach. This offers a consistent, non‐procedural, strongly typed environment where users can develop their own higher order functions. The approach integrates functional programming, visual programming and knowledge and rules. VFQL’s effectiveness is evaluated compared with a text based command language for GIS macro query development. The results of an experiment indicate that users could develop solutions to simpler tasks more quickly and with fewer errors than a comparative text based command language. On more complex tasks there was no significant difference. From this we deduce that VFQL demonstrates certain design features to help the development of macros or small programs for users but that the complexity of the problem in difficult tasks is likely to be the most important determinant of the error rate and time to complete the task.
IT solutions for data integration at europroducts, inc.*: A case study
Authors: Paper David J. , Nicol David
Published: June 2010

This paper provides a longitudinal view of one organization’s experiences with IT implementation and Business Process Reengineering since 1990. The organization is EuroProducts; a manufacturer of air freshener and related products located in thecountry, in the West of England, EuroProducts has identified data integration and data standardization as critical to leverage increased performance from its materials requirements process flow. As a result, a new MRP system is being introduced to integrate data input from factory floor workers, management, staff, and IS professionals. The goal is to use the new MRP system as a rallying point to facilitate redesign of material requirements work flows. Aspects of innovation and systems theory are introduced to help the authors organize and identify root causes of the problems EuroProducts has had with its IT implementation and reengineering efforts.
User involvement, organisational sub‐cultures and development trajectory
Authors: Beynon‐Davies Paul , Tudhope Douglas , Mackay Hugh
Published: June 2010

In this paper we discuss some of the particular features of user involvement in information systems (IS) development projects with reference to the idea of the trajectory of development being a political/cultural process. The main aim is to attempt to supply more depth to an understanding of the pragmatics of user involvement in IS development projects. We illustrate how in one particular project, differences in organisational sub‐cultures, and in particular the way in which the technology was ‘framed’, led to differences in the way in which an information system was conceived. These differences, in turn, contributed to elements of organisational conflict between stakeholder groups over the future trajectory of the IS development. We conclude with a critique of some generally held assumptions concerning user involvement.
The economic impact of investment in infrastructures of telecommunications in Spain: 1964‐1993.
Authors: Flores de Frutos Rafael , Gracia‐Dìez Mercedes , Pèrez‐Amaral Teodosio , Vega‐Catena Pedro J.
Published: June 2010

In this paper we address the question of how telecommunications affect economic growth, by estimating the effect of direct investment in telecommunications infrastructures on aggregate output, employment, and investment in Spain. In contrast with previous studies, the problem is analyzed in a dynamic multivariate framework which allows for explicit consideration of feedbacks among all the variables. We find significant effects of the investment in infrastructures of telecommunications on aggregate output, employment and investment which extend for several years. This might justify a policy for stimulating investment in this sector.
Evaluating MIS performance: Comparison of three hierarchical evaluation types
Authors: Chung Moonsang , Bae Zong‐Tae , Lee Jinjoo
Published: June 2010

This paper proposes a new hierarchical approach toward MIS evaluation, which emphasizes the evaluation of the strategic aspects of MIS, as well as the evaluations of the activities of MIS functions and the quality of application systems. Based on the previous studies and the preliminary field survey, concepts and contents of three hierarchical evaluation types such as system‐oriented, function‐oriented and strategy‐oriented evaluations were presented, and four propositions were drawn. The surveys of 130 Korean firms, conducted in 1991 and 1997 successively, show that majority of firms use system‐oriented or function‐oriented evaluation type, although the usage rate of strategy‐oriented type is slightly higher in 1997 than in 1991 and most MIS managers consider the strategy‐oriented evaluation as the ideal one. It is also found that the firms of higher MIS maturity use the strategy‐oriented evaluation type, and the firms with strategy‐oriented evaluation type show a higher MIS performance. Results of this study imply that strategic roles of MIS should be more emphasized and different evaluation types should be used along with MIS maturity. In addition, the design of MIS evaluation framework should be done carefully in the strategic and managerial contexts, because MIS performance can vary with evaluation type. Finally, some limitations of the study and directions for further research were suggested.
Not just a job: Preparing graduates for careers in the IS workforce
Authors: Castleman Tanya , Coulthard Darryl
Published: June 2010

If IS educators are to provide their students with an understanding of the overall context in which they will develop professional careers, they must have good information about graduates’ employment destinations and their workforce experiences. That information is difficult to obtain from standard data collections. This paper explores the early job experiences of IS graduates using survey and interview data. While the graduates have a strong IS professional orientation and experience friendly work environments, their expectations of access to interesting work, career advice and opportunities for advancement appear to outstrip their experience in the workplace.
Social and economic benefit in public regional internet facilities
Authors: Symonds Judith
Published: June 2010

The differences between urban and rural Internet capability have emerged as a very important issue in recent years. In Australia, the problem has been addressed partly, through providing support for public regional Internet Facilities such as Internet Cafes. The economic merits of public Internet facilities in regional and rural areas are well promoted. This study explores these economic benefits, as well as some very valuable social benefits not often recognised. An exploratory research design is employed and data from in‐depth interviews with four public Internet facilities is analysed. The study draws conclusions about the balance between economic and social issues in managing the Internet. These findings have implications for the future development of public regional Internet facilities.
A mathematical model for the joint determination of optimal process and sampling plan parameters
Authors: Darwish M.A. , Duffuaa S.O.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to integrate the decisions regarding optimal process mean and the parameters of a sampling plan.

Design/methodology/approach

A model is developed to determine these parameters. The model maximizes producer expected profit, while protecting the consumer through a constraint on the probability of accepting lots with low incoming quality. The model is presented for two cases. The first one is for non‐destructive testing and the other for destructive testing. An example is presented to demonstrate that the utility of the model and sensitivity analysis on key parameters of the model has been conducted.

Findings

The findings indicated that the optimal parameters for the process and the sampling plan are significantly different from when determined separately. The sensitivity analysis showed that the process parameters are very sensitive to changes in the process variance, moderately sensitive to the limit on incoming quality, and insensitive to the consumer risk and inspection cost.

Practical implications

The models developed offer an alternative approach for quality managers to address setting process targets, taking into consideration a sampling plan.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is in the integration of two elements of quality that are usually treated separately in the literature.
Commercial management in project‐based organisations
Authors: Lowe D J , Leiringer R
Published: June 2010

The term commercial management has been used for some time, similarly the job title commercial manager. However, as of yet, little emphasis has been placed on defining. This paper presents the findings from a two‐year research initiative that has compared and contrasted the role of commercial managers from a range of organisations and across industry sectors, as a first step in developing a body of knowledge for commercial. It is argued that there are compelling arguments for considering commercial management, not solely as atask undertaken by commercial managers, but as a discipline in itself: a discipline that, arguably, bridges traditional project management and organisational theories. While the study has established differences in approach and application both between and within industry sectors, it has established sufficient similarity and synergy in practice to identify a specific role of commercial management in project‐based organisations. These similarities encompass contract management and dispute resolution; the divergences include a greater involvement in financial and value management in construction and in bid management in defence/aerospace.
Trust in construction projects
Authors: McDermott P , Khalfan M , Swan W
Published: June 2010

Trust is described as an elusive concept (Gambetta 1988), difficult to describe, understand and, therefore, manage. The Trust in Construction project undertook 6 exploratory case studies, of which 4 are presented in this paper, in order to understand how trust is formed, and the impact this has on project performance. The authors propose a model of the different forms of trust and the drivers and barriers to its development, derived through the case studies conducted. Through this model different approaches are identified that can either manage trust directly, or mitigate the factors that may cause its breakdown within project teams. The research focuses on the role of the commercial manger, the role of procurement mechanisms and the tools that are available to manage issues of project, commercial and relationship uncertainty, such as open book arrangements or partnering workshops, and sees how they can drive the level of trust within the project team. Based on both literature and experience of the case studies, the model identifies the risks to the development of trust and how they may be addressed. The paper also presents the trust inventory, developed during the case studies.
Real option evaluation of complex infrastructure projects: The case of Dabhol Power
Authors: Cheah C Y J , Liu J
Published: June 2010

Development of large‐scale infrastructure projects that solicits the support of private capital is no longer a new phenomenon. This is commonly implemented using governance arrangements such as Build‐Operate‐Transfer and other technical variations of public‐private partnerships. Frequently, concessions and guarantees are included in the contract in order to protect the interests of some project stakeholders. Flexibilities may also be built into the terms and conditions, thus allowing participants to react to changes that
could occur during the implementation stage. All these features essentially reallocate risks and rewards within the contract, the effects of which may not be quantified by conventional evaluation methods such as the Net Present Value method. Real option (RO) modelling has been identified as a superior approach, although the method is more complicated and cases of application to complex infrastructure projects remain to be limited. In this paper, discrete‐time RO models are used to evaluate several options found in the Dabhol Power Project in India. Limitations and challenges in modelling these options are also discussed. Overall, the RO approach demonstrates a great promise in capturing and evaluating flexibilities. The case study however shows that some implementation issues need to be overcome before RO can be commonly and practically applied to the infrastructural context.
UK construction orders and output: A comparison of government and commercially available data 1995‐2001
Authors: Gruneberg Stephen , Hughes Will
Published: June 2010

Because of the importance and potential usefulness of construction market statistics to firms and government, consistency between different sources of data is examined with a view to building a predictive model of construction output using construction data alone. However, a comparison of Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Office for National Statistics (ONS) series shows that the correlation coefcient (used as a measure of consistency) of the DTI output and DTI orders data and the correlation coefficient of the DTI output and ONS output data are low. It is not possible to derive a predictive model of DTI output based on DTI orders data alone. The question arises whether or not an alternative independent source of data may be used to predict DTI output data. Independent data produced by Emap Glenigan (EG), based on planning applications, potentially offers such a source of information. The EG data records the value of planning applications and their planned start and finish dates. However, as this data is ex ante and is not correlated with DTI output it is not possible to use this data to describe the volume of actual construction output. Nor is it possible to use the EG planning data to predict DTI construc‐tion orders data. Further consideration of the issues raised reveal that it is not practically possible to develop a consistent predictive model of construction output using construction statistics gathered at different stages in the development process.
Economic feasibility of the proposed Second Forth Road Bridge using Public Private Partnership procurement
Authors: Wamuziri S. C. , Clearie A. G. F.
Published: June 2010

The existing Forth Road Bridge near Edinburgh in Scotland at present carries 24 million vehicles annually, which is twice its design capacity. The need for a second Forth Road Bridge is discussed in this paper. There is currently a proposal for design and construction of the second Forth Road Bridge crossing. Some organisations are in favour of the project and yet others are against it. If the project were sanctioned, it would be private sector funded under the government’s PFI/PPP programme. This paper provides an economic evaluation of the proposed second Forth Road Bridge crossing. Firstly, a review of studies carried out on the traffic characteristics across the Forth is provided. Secondly, a critical analysis of the economic tools and techniques available for cost‐benefit analysis is given. The concept of cost of capital for government projects is also discussed and distinguished from cost of borrowing. The paper then provides present values of expected revenues from toll charges supported by extensive sensitivity studies for various assumptions regarding changes in toll levels, concession periods, future traffic growth levels and cost of capital. The main conclusions of the study are that the scheme is economically viable subject to the following limitations. If only Northbound traffic is tolled, this would require quadrupling of the current toll levels for the expected revenues to be adequate to fund design, construction and maintenance costs of a second standard bridge crossing and approach roads over a 30‐year concession period. If both Northbound and Southbound traffic were tolled, the present toll levels would need to be doubled on award of the concession contract and increased annually by the Retail Price Index (RPI) for the scheme to be economically viable. If the new crossing is to include the possibility of a heavy rail link under the dual carriage way, the expected present values of toll revenues provided they are increased as suggested above would be adequate only to fund design and construction costs of the new crossing and maintenance of both bridges. The project as whole would only be economically viable if the public sector funded the design, construction and maintenance costs of the required tunnels and approach roads.
Factors affecting accuracy of cost estimation of building contracts in the Gaza Strip
Authors: Enshassi Adnan , Mohamed Sherif , Madi Ibrahim
Published: June 2010

Estimating is a fundamental part of the construction industry. The success or failure of a project is dependent on the accuracy of several estimates through‐out the course of the project. Construction estimating is the compilation and analysis of many items that influence and contribute to the cost of a project. Estimating which is done before the physical performance of the work requires a detailed study and careful analysis of the bidding documents, in order to achieve the most accurate estimate possible of the probable cost consistent with the bidding time available and the accuracy and completeness of the information submitted. Overestimated or underestimated cost has the potential to cause loss to local contracting companies. The objective of this paper is to identify the essential factors and their relative importance that affect accuracy of cost estimation of building contracts in the Gaza strip. The results of analyzing fifty one factors considered in a questionnaire survey concluded that the main factors are: location of the project, segmentation of the Gaza strip and limitation of movements between areas, political situation, and financial status of the owner.
Estimating of capital cost of underground car parking project
Authors: Ferreira Bastos Mo´nica , Loforte Ribeiro Francisco , Cardoso Teixeira José
Published: June 2010

Underground parking projects are expensive. The capital cost of underground parking projects has been, and still is, one of the promoter’s main economic concerns. Therefore, the capital cost estimation is an essential task in the early stages of underground parking projects. In this context, the promoters mainly use cost estimation models, most of them produced by methodologies with lack of precision and with low performances. Over the last years Portugal has embarked on a large programme of underground parking projects in the major cities. The present research work is based on data and knowledge colleted from that programme. This paper presents an analysis of the underground parking projects built and underway in Portugal. It discusses the main variables influencing the capital cost of under‐ground parking projects. Finally, it presents a mathematical model for estimating capital cost of this type of project during the planning phase.
A decision making model for infrastructure projects selection in developing countries
Authors: Mawdesley M , Hernandez O , Al‐Jibouri S.
Published: June 2010

This paper deals with the process followed to select investment projects within the construction industry with emphasis on the characteristics of infrastructure projects in developing countries. It presents an overview of the current practices in the main areas concerned with the process, namely project evaluation and decision‐making. The research carried out shows a process with a narrow scope and a lack of integration between the different techniques. The methodology described in this paper is developed to overcome such diffi culties and reduce some of the uncertainty that surrounds the selection of engineering projects. The proposed methodology has been tested and validated and results of the testing have been discussed and conclusions are drawn.
An analysis of variable rate residential mortgage prepayment in Hong Kong using aggregate data
Authors: Pretorius F , So W.M. , Chau K.W.
Published: June 2010

A distinctive feature of mortgages as assets is the existence of prepayment risk, typically viewed as a borrower’s call option to pay the outstanding mortgage balance at any time during the term. While previous research identified important causes for prepayment, these studies are mostly based on fixed‐rate mortgages, with little work on variable‐rate or floating‐rate mortgages and even less work on prepayment in countries other than the USA. This paper presents an analysis of prepayment based on the historical aggregate pre‐payment experience of a sample of variable rate mortgages in Hong Kong, which func‐tions under a Currency Board Mechanism that determines exogenously the level and term structure of interest rates. With variable rate mortgages, it is expected that there will not be a prepayment incentive with decreases in interest rates, unlike the case with fixed‐rate mortgages. However, we argue that observed interest rate movements remain a key factor that affects prepayment decisions, because current interest changes influence expected future interest rates. Furthermore, drawing on quasi‐rational and behavioral economics concepts, we expect the effect on prepayment of expected upward movement in interest rates to be stronger than that of expected downward movements. Empirical evidence from the adjustable rate residential mortgage sample from Hong Kong supports these expected relationships.
Hand‐arm vibration controls: A perspective based on performance and cost dimensions
Authors: Edwards David J , Holt Gary D
Published: June 2010

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations (CVWR), quantify workplace vibration exposure using exposure action, and exposure limit values (EAV and ELV respectively). Hand‐arm vibration (HAV) risk can be objectively assessed using hand‐tool vibration magnitude data, for comparison to the EAV and ELV. When considering risk controls, one disadvantage of this ‘focus’ on vibration magnitude, is that it might deflect appreciation of the economic implications of such controls, resulting from for example: restrictions on tool usage time; the need for operator rotas where continuous tool use is required; and complications in estimating labour costs because of these types of condition. Based on a sample of hand‐tools’ performance data, this research developed ‘hybrid’ (performance/vibration) dimensions for quantifying tools’ efficacy; representing (interalia) units of work achievable to reach the EAV and ELV. These hybrid dimensions characterize an alternative performance‐based (and therefore financially related) way of considering a tool’s ‘suitability’ within CVWR parameters; over and above the (selection) criterion of tool vibration magnitude. Analyses are then presented that investigate the time and cost ramifications of using multiple operators, to sustain continuous tool usage while keeping exposure levels within CVWR limits.
Globalisation of the construction industry: A review of infrastructure financing
Authors: Ngowi A B , Pienaar E , Akindele O , Iwisi D.S.
Published: June 2010

The importance of reliable and well‐developed infrastructure for the development of any nation hardly needs to be emphasized. Efficient transport, reliable energy, safe drinking water and modern telecommunication systems are all critical to attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), expanding international trade, achieving long‐term investment and growth, and ultimately ensuring social development of the population. Although globalization was expected to ensure that global capital markets, which have the depth, maturity, size and sophistication to fund all viable investments would ease financing of infrastructure projects, this has not happened and demand for infrastructure, particularly in the developing countries has remained acute. This paper reviews the financing of infrastructure projects and based on historical trends it argues that construction industries need to take more active part in the financing of infrastructure projects as a strategy for their own development. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of putting infrastructure industries on commercial footing as a prerequisite to financing them.
Devising a conducive regulatory framework for Hong Kong real estate investment trusts
Authors: Chiang Yai‐Hung , Joinkey Chun‐Kei
Published: June 2010

The first Hong Kong Real Estate Investment Trust (HK‐REIT), the Link REIT, was successfully launched in late 2005. The retail tranche of its initial public offering (IPO) was 19 times oversubscribed, and the IPO is the largest of its kind in the world until now. Despite the initial phenomenon success, there have been only three others to follow and get listed. Indeed, it took Hong Kong over two years to have her first Link REIT listed after the legislation for REIT products had come into force. The development of REIT market in Hong Kong has been slow compared to its counterparts in some other Asian countries. This paper aims to explain the somewhat sluggish growth of the HK‐REIT market. Its development is compared with some emerging Asian markets as well as the more mature markets in the USA and Australia. The study is focused on the legislations that govern REITs in different jurisdictions, their different REIT market envi‐ronments and the rationale from the respective governments to introduce their REITs. It is concluded that the sluggish development of HK‐REITs is mainly due to its market environment and industry structure. There is not enough incentive for developers to dispose their assets in the form of REITs. Besides, the HK‐REIT Code was initially criticized by the industry as being too restrictive. Though subsequent amendments on the HK‐REIT Code have been made to make it more conducive to the development of REIT market, further sustainable success will however hinge on the willingness from sponsors, particularly large developers, to offer their portfolios of properties for sale through REITs.
Macroeconomic risk factors in Australian commercial real estate, listed property trust and property sector stock returns
Authors: West Tracey , Worthington Andrew C
Published: June 2010

This paper employs a Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroske‐dasticity in Mean (GARCH‐M) model to consider the effect of macroeconomic factors on Australian property returns over the period 1985 to 2002. Three direct (office, retail and industrial property) and two indirect (listed property trust and property stock) returns are included in the analysis, along with market returns, short, medium and long‐term interest rates, expected and unexpected inflation, construction activity and industrial employment and production. In general, macroeconomic factors are found to be significant risk factors in Australian commercial property returns. However, the results also indicate that forecast accuracy in these models is higher for direct office, listed property trust and property stock returns and that the persistence of volatility shocks varies across the different markets, with volatility half lives of between five and seven months for direct retail and industrial property, two and three months for direct office property and less than two months with both forms of indirect property investment.
Comparative study of power purchase agreements in the Nepalese environment
Authors: Shrestha R B , Ogunlan Stephen
Published: June 2010

This paper describes the experiences and the contentious issues on eight existing PPAs in Nepal with varying type of investment, the key areas where IPPs are treated fairly and the areas where IPPs are discriminated against by the clauses are highlighted. Power Purchase Agreements on IPPs in Nepal are of three types: with foreign investment, local investment and investment in JV with the Utility. A critical issue in designing power purchase agreements is to create a level playing field for the players to secure successful and sustainable IPPs and PPAs. To create this environment, discriminatory clauses or unequal treatment to IPPs in the key issues of the PPAs should be avoided; the key issues being power purchase guarantees, force majeure guarantees, financial and foreign exchange guarantees, operation guarantees, and guarantees concerning insurance and dispute resolution. The analysis shows that discriminatory clauses and unequal treatment are present in the key issues of the agreements.
The analysis and allocation of risks in public private partnerships in infrastructure projects in Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim A D , Price A D F , Dainty A R J
Published: June 2010

Governments throughout the world are being forced to review how to fund the increasing demand and rising expectations of their citizens. This is especially relevant for developing countries, which often have limited capital resources to meet the soaring needs for essential infrastructure. This has consequently led to increased involvement of the private sector in the provision of public services, using various forms of Public‐Private Partnerships (PPPs). It is, however, important for both the public and private sectors to understand the various risks associated with PPPs throughout the whole life cycle of the projects in order to guarantee long‐term success. This is especially true in Nigeria and other countries where the use of PPPs are still in the early stages of development. Sixty‐one PPP risk factors were identified from literature and classified into exogenous and endogenous risks. This paper presents the results of the questionnaire survey that investigated the perception of Nigerian construction professionals on the relative importance of the identified risks and their preferences of allocation between the public and private sectors. The results show that the three most important PPP risk factors in Nigeria are “unstable government”, “inadequate experience in PPP” and “availability of finnance”. The respondents’ risk allocation preferences show that while most of the endogenous risk factors could be assigned to the private sector partner, the public sector should retain political and site acquisition risks, while relation‐ship‐based risks should be shared between the private and public sector partners
Relationships between total construction cost and project strategic, site related and building definition variable
Authors: Lowe David J. , Emsley Margaret W , Harding Anthony
Published: June 2010

There is a paucity of recent literature on the influence of project strategic, site related and design related variables on the cost of construction. This paper seeks to redress this omission by presenting the results of an investigation into the influence of 41 independent variables on both construction cost and client cost. Data were collected from 286 construction projects in the United Kingdom and correlation and test for differences were used to determine the relationships that exist between the dependent and independent variables. The analysis both confirms the strong relationship between construction cost and client cost and between those two measures of cost and GIFA, and establishes other relationships which exist within the data, confirming many of the relationships that had been anticipated from the literature. It also established the ordinal sequence of several nominal variables. These data, therefore, can be confidently used to develop models of the total cost of construction.
Ownership structure and corporate performance: empirical evidence of China’s listed property companies
Authors: Ke Qiulin , Isaac David
Published: June 2010

This paper investigates the relationship of ownership structure and corporate performance of China’s listed property companies. Data from all the listed property companies on China’s stock market from 2000 to 2002 were used to study ownership concentration, type of controlling shares and their relation to corporate performance. The methodology applied is the conventional ordinary least square (OLS) model which is widely used in empirical studies on corporate governance. The study shows that ownership concentration has a positive association with corporate performance. Also that state shareholding is positively related to corporate performance; this is inconsistent with other empirical studies on the ownership structure and corporate performance of China’s listed companies and rflects the industry’s characteristics.
Fuzzy rule based system approach to assess cleaning costs of carpet flooring
Authors: Wang N , Horner R M W
Published: June 2010

The impact of ‘context of use’ to the whole life costs (WLC) of building elements has not yet been studied in previous researches. Lack of hard and detailed historical data constrained the use of traditional methods for this purpose. A fuzzy rule‐based system (FRBS) for any type of carpet cleaning cost estimate is one of a series of fuzzy models developed to estimate the WLC of building elements with the consideration of context of use to the elements. The fuzzy reasoning method, as the representation of human reasoning, is applied to WLC for the first time for carpet cleaning cost. The data used are the linguistic judgments from some experienced experts based on interview surveys. The implementation of the model is demonstrated in a case study. The result is assessed by the experts as an acceptable estimate.The paper concludes that Fuzzy Rule Based System is an appropriate method to model running costs of building elements. The model allows user to predict the cost variation of cleaning cost of carpet flooring according to its designed context of use.
An evaluation of the impact of risk on project cost overrun in the Nigerian construction industry
Authors: Dada Joshua O , Jagboro G O
Published: June 2010

One of the major reasons for ineffective project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry is the improper assessment of risk factors. As a result, the industry continues to suffer poor performance with many projects failing to meet time and cost targets. This paper identifies the risk factors inherent in different building procurement methods and assesses their perceived relative importance with a view to evaluating their impact on project cost. The paper reports on a study carried out through a questionnaire survey of professionals within the construction industry in order to asses the relative importance placed on risk factors. Responses from the survey were analysed using relative importance index for the purpose of evaluating the impact of risk on projects cost. Data were collected on selected completed projects and analysed using frequencies, mean values and relative important index. The main risk factors identified are finance and political influence. A model was developed by relating the variation between the initial contract estimate and the actual project cost to the risk variables. From the analysis, the percentages of projects cost overrun due to the impact of risk were established for each procurement method investigated. The paper recommends that contingency additions should be based on the procurement method used.
Uncertainty in best value decision making
Authors: Phillips Steve , Martin Jim , Dainty Andy , Price Andrew
Published: June 2010

The sheer volume of decisions taken within the public sector procurement process prevents perfect and complete information being obtained and applied to every best value tender analysis that is carried out. As such, uncertainty must be accepted as a feature of the best value decision‐making process. This paper reports research which is developing a methodology for utilising the uncertainty component in best value tender analysis in order to create a more transparent decision making process. The main output of the research is the production of a robust support tool which aids the multi objective decision making process within the public sector of the UK construction industry by provoking rational discussion with respect to; the industry’s key performance indicators (KPIs), the client’s attitude to risk and provides a transparent audit trail of the decisions taken. The underlying rationale for the support tool is based on a combination of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Multi‐Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) and Whole Life Costing (WLC). The paper demonstrates the practical utility of the methodology of the tool through a tender decision process.
The impact of diversification on the performance of UK construction firms
Authors: Ibrahim Yahaya M , Kaka Ammar P
Published: June 2010

Built upon theories from outside the construction management literature, this study assesses the impact of product diversification on the performance of construction firms in the UK. Performance was measured based on financial ratios of management performance while diversification was measured by the specialisation ratio. The research involved the use of financial data of construction firms covering the period 1995‐2004. The choice of the period is informed by the economic stability during the period and also, by the fact that diversification is a long‐term strategy. The findings indicate that focused firms outperform both moderately and highly diversified firms based on return on total assets (ROTA) and profit margin (PM). However, no performance difference was found between the moderately diversified and highly diversified firms.
Strategic assets driving financial capability of Thai construction firms
Authors: Vorasubin Piyanut , Chareonngam Chotchai
Published: June 2010

Technological advancement, innovative procurement patterns such as build‐operate‐transfer, build‐own‐operate‐transfer as well as intrusion of international contractors have immensely changed the construction market. Local contractors need to devise a strategy to raise not only its technological capability but also financial capability which becomes increasingly necessary to compete successfully in this new landscape. This study aimed to investigate strategic assets which have been driving financial capability of construction firms in Thailand. Four large construction firms in Thailand were investigated through case study method and the result was verified with twelve industry experts. Three strategic assets were found contributing to competitive advantage of Thai construction firms including access to capital, efficient cash management, and effective capital investment. It was also found that strong relationship was the needed ingredient in developing these particular assets in Thailand. The findings should assist managers of construction firms in realizing the impact of financial capability, envisaging its driving strategic assets, and comprehending the mechanism which provides competitive advantage.
Political risk quantification using fuzzy set approach
Authors: Sachs Tillmn , Tiong Ribert , Wagner Daniel
Published: June 2010

Negative perceptions of political risk can prevent capital from being committed to support cross‐border investment. Information about risks that impact infra‐structure projects is often vague, imprecise, subjective, or ambiguous. Political risks in developing countries also often lack meaningful historical and numerical data. A novel fuzzy set approach for quantifying qualitative information on risks (QQIR) in structured finance transactions that bridges the gap between qualitative and quantitative risk assessment methods has been developed. The QQIR Method is validated empirically through the results of an international survey to determine the impact of perceived political risk on Asian infrastructure projects. The impact is measured by the effect on financial project criteria. The impact was assessed across 14 Asian countries and 14 infrastructure sectors. The survey findings are validated by triangulation of three data sets and employing non‐parametric statistics. The validation shows that in 77.5% of all observations the QQIR Method produces mean results that are within 0.85 standard deviations of the absolute values, without elimination of any seemingly unusual or unreasonable responses or data. The validation also shows that with increasing perceived risks, the costs of equity investment, debt finance, and insurance also increase. The QQIR Method is thus a valid tool to quantify perceptions on risks. In this case it has been applied to political risks, but the Method is generic and may be applied to any problem set in which perceptions can be structured and assessed with opinions.
Evaluating guaranteed maximum price and target cost contracting strategies in Hong Kong construction industry
Authors: Chan Daniel M , Chan Albert P C , Lam Patrick T I , Lam Edward W M , Wong James M W
Published: June 2010

Guaranteed maximum price (GMP) and target cost contracting (TCC) with a pain‐share/gain‐share arrangement have been adopted to integrate the construction delivery process and motivate service providers to seek continuous improvements in project outcomes. However, there is still a lack of research evidence to evaluate the levels of success and lessons learned from these innovative procurement strategies. Based on the analysis of a series of in‐depth interviews on the perceptions of various relevant experienced industrial practitioners, this paper aims to explore the key attributes of GMP/TCC including the underlying motives, perceived benefits, potential difficulties, critical success factors, key risk factors involved and optimal project conditions for adopting GMP/TCC. The research findings are useful in assisting key project stakeholders in minimising the detriments brought about by potential difficulties in and maximising the benefits derived from implementing GMP/TCC concepts. The study is also significant in contributing to new knowledge and practical information of GMP/TCC applications and implementation, in both a national and international context.
The learning climate of an organisation and practitioner competence
Authors: Lowe David J , Skitmore Martin
Published: June 2010

The focus of this paper is on the influence of the learning climate in organisations on practitioner competence. Practitioners in the context of the paper are Chartered Quantity Surveyors, while competency is measured in terms of the accuracy of construction contract price forecasts. The results indicate that: The learning climate within quantity surveying practices is perceived to be supportive in terms of human support and to a lesser extent working practices, but less supportive in terms of staff development systems (specifically, the use of appraisal systems and the provision of resources and development facilities). The degree of accuracy of the subjects’ forecasts was found to improve as their perception of the overall learning climate, working practices, staff development systems and specifically items relating to the opportunity to introduce new skills, discussion of prob‐lems, working practices, provision of resources and the identification of needs increased. It is recommended that surveying organisations assess their ability to provide an ef‐fective learning environment and to address any deficiencies, especially in the provision of staff development systems, to improve individual forecasting performance. Further, they should consider introducing effective feedback mechanisms that require both the individual to critically reflect on their own performance and the organisation to provide effective constructive feedback on an individual’s performance.
Goal orientations and the motivation to share knowledge
Authors: Swift Michele , Balkin David B. , Matusik Sharon F.
Published: June 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model that takes into account both personal and contextual factors in explaining individuals' motivation to share their knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from research on achievement motivation and social exchange, it is posited that goal orientations provide a framework for individuals' knowledge sharing by shaping how they cognitively value the costs and benefits associated with sharing their knowledge. It is argued each of the goal orientations is associated with preferences for sharing specific types of knowledge and is that a focus on different aspects of the knowledge provider‐recipient relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The model provides a possible explanation for some of the inconsistencies in existing knowledge‐sharing research on the factors that motivate knowledge sharing as well as expanding understanding of the conditions that facilitate knowledge sharing.

Practical implications

For organizations to encourage the desired knowledge sharing, they may need to maintain human resource management (HRM) practices that recognize the different motivations associated with each of the goal orientations.

Originality/value

The model developed integrates research on goal orientations and knowledge transfer to expand understanding of how individuals cognitively value the costs and benefits of sharing their knowledge.
Are full and partial knowledge sharing the same?
Authors: Ford Dianne P. , Staples Sandy
Published: June 2010

Purpose

This paper to examine full knowledge sharing (KS) and partial KS in order to test the proposition that they are separate behaviors with different characteristics, risks, and motivations for the informer and subsequently different predictors.

Design/methodology/approach

Employed knowledge workers completed two questionnaires over a two‐week period regarding their attitudes, situational factors, individual differences, and KS behaviors with their close colleagues in their workplace.

Findings

Results support the proposition that they are different albeit related behaviors. Full KS is enabled by intentions for full KS. Partial KS is enabled by the uniqueness of the knowledge, interpersonal distrust of close colleagues, and inhibited by perceived value of knowledge. Management support, interpersonal trust and distrust enable intentions for both full and partial KS, then propensity to share further enables full KS, and psychological ownership further enables intentions for partial KS.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from the study suggest that researchers should specify which sharing behavior they are examining (full or partial). Future research should also examine the outcomes of these two behaviors to see whether the assumed benefits of sharing knowledge apply to both of them.

Practical implications

The findings of the study provide some insight for practitioners on what motivates full versus partial KS.

Originality/value

The study challenges the assumption that KS is a single behavior, and starts to parse out the complexities within the KS literature with respect to predictors of actual KS behaviors.