bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internationalized access to domain names: a review of methods and issues
Authors: Shim Sung J.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This article aims to understand the opportunities as well as the challenges posed by the methods for internationalized access to domain names.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first provides background information on how domain names are resolved in the domain name system (DNS). It then reviews the various methods for internationalized access to domain names with a focus on their technical implementation and potential problems. Finally, it discusses several important language and policy issues surrounding the methods.

Findings

The methods proposed for internationalized access to domain names can be classified into two groups: ASCII‐compatible encoding; and multilingual keywords. ASCII‐compatible encoding methods, such as the internationalized domain name (IDN) standards specified by the internet engineering task force, seem technically sound since they do not affect existing DNS operations, but they have some structural limitations. Multilingual keyword methods are rather simple and intuitive to use but they are not compatible with one another and so may return different results from the same multilingual keyword query. Also, both ASCII‐compatible encoding and multilingual keyword methods can raise some important issues associated with languages and policies, such as linguistic problems, disputes over IDNs, and multilingual homographs.

Originality/value

The issues discussed in this paper need to be addressed for broad and seamless implementation of the methods for internationalized access to domain names across various languages. The review of the methods and associated issues can prove helpful to those from internet users and domain name registrants to domain name registries and registrars.
Online reporting by banks: a structural modelling approach
Authors: Serrano‐Cinca Carlos , Fuertes‐Callén Yolanda , Gutiérrez‐Nieto Begoña
Published: June 2007

Purpose

A structural equation model is proposed to explain internet reporting by banks. The model relates three constructs of financial institutions (size, financial performance, and internet visibility) to their final influence on internet information disclosure (e‐transparency).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper's proposed model analyses a sample of Spanish financial institutions using publicly available data. The model is tested using partial least squares.

Findings

A positive and statistically significant relationship has been found between size, financial performance, internet visibility, and e‐transparency, with direct and indirect effects. The study shows that size accounts for most of the variance. Size has a positive effect on e‐transparency, financial performance, and internet visibility. However, the direct effect of financial performance and internet visibility on e‐transparency is small.

Research limitations/implications

The researchers have analysed only one year of data from one country and one sector. The direction of cause and effect assumed in the model is a logical one, but statistical methods cannot prove causality, only association. Even though any bank can disclose its financial information online for a very low cost, building a robust, interactive web site requires major resources. This gives larger banks a value added advantage.

Originality/value

The paper examines the relationship between size, financial performance, internet visibility and e‐transparency using a structural model. Although structural models are commonly used in many scientific disciplines, they have not yet been applied in disclosure research.
Metalib and Google Scholar: a user study
Authors: Haya Glenn , Nygren Else , Widmark Wilhelm
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to understand how students experience the search tools Google Scholar and Metalib and the role of prior instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 32 undergraduate students searched academic articles for their thesis work. Searches were recorded using Morae software and were analysed along with the number of articles saved and responses to a questionnaire. All searched with both tools. Half of the students received training before searching.

Findings

Google Scholar performed better in almost all measures. Training had a positive effect on the amount and quality of articles saved. Responses to Google Scholar were more positive than to Metalib. However, the students were not overwhelmingly enthusiastic about either of the tools. Research limitations/implications – Each Metalib implementation is to some extent unique, which limits the extent to which results can be generalised to other implementations.

Practical implications

Training is valuable for both tools. The user interface to Metalib does not conform with students' expectations and needs further improvement. Both tools strive to be a first alternative search tool for academic literature but neither performed well enough in this study to recommend it to be used in that role in an academic library setting.

Originality/value

These tools are important to academic libraries but few user studies have been published, particularly on Google Scholar. To one's knowledge no other user study on these tools has looked at the effects of instruction.
Clustering search results. Part III: the synergy of metasearching and clustering
Authors: Jacsó Peter
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to further examine clustering search results.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes and illustrates the most powerful synergy created by the intelligent combination of metasearching and clustering on the fly through Central Search and PolyMeta.

Findings

The study finds that the combination of metasearching and clustering, although two opposite functions, can produce effective synergy.

Originality/value

This paper looks at the intelligent combination of metasearching and clustering in the form of Central Search and PolyMeta, giving a new step in savvy searching.
A computer‐based information system for architectural design offices
Authors: Kanoglu Alaattin , Arditi David
Published: June 2007

Obtaining, handling and distributing information among participants in the building design process has become more difficult with increasing project complexity. In individual areas such as scheduling, estimating and drafting, it is possible to have access to computerized tools but it is clear that there is a gap in architects’ offices regarding the integration of these tools into a unified system. Architects work closely with engineers, clients, suppliers, and public authorities. Managing the information flow among these participants may not be much of a problem in small offices. But the larger architectural offices face serious management‐related problems in the design process because of the lack of an efficient information system. This paper presents a computer‐based information system called ASAP that was developed to respond to the stated problem of large architectural offices. The conceptual framework as well as a description of the prototype are presented in this paper.
An e‐commerce system for construction material procurement
Authors: Kong C.W. , Li H. , Love P.E.D.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents an e‐commerce system that is being used for construction material procurement. The paper identifies the limitations relating to information retrieving, recording and sharing in the traditional material procurement process. E‐commerce applications that can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the material procurement process in construction are then identified and described. Finally, the design and implementation of an e‐commerce system for construction material procurement for trading construction materials in China is presented and discussed.
Verification and spatial clearance of features in a product modelling environment
Authors: Faraj Ihsan
Published: June 2007

In features based design systems that are underpinned by solid models, buildings are designed by applying features to the design domain. A feature may be translated and/or rotated in order to position it in the desired place. Contradiction between the applied features and resulting features may occur due to the features interaction, wrong positioning, or inadequate parameters supplied by the user during the product definition. Moreover, the application of other features may cause some features to degenerate to further features. Therefore, verification of the resulting features must be performed against the applied features to establish whether the resulting features conform to the underlying geometry. Current feature‐based design systems employ a mechanism of tagging feature labels onto geometry. This approach does not guarantee the geometric correctness of the resultant feature and knowledge of the topology of the resulting feature and a geometric analysis is necessary to correctly identify the validity of the resultant feature. The research reported in this paper proposes an alternative approach which uses a product model that permits all geometrical and technological information associated with the design and construction stages to be represented. Individual features can be extracted from the product model and analysed to determine their accessibility. Methods which use the product description and other construction data to determine feature validity, accessibility and machinability are used. Each volumetric feature corresponds to a solid that can be added by one or more construction process or removed by one or more machining operations; as a consequence of applying volumetric features, surface features are generated. These surface features provide enough information to enable the accessibility, and machinability of the individual features to be determined and establish the possible routes in which the feature can be accessed if any.
An algorithm for mobile crane selection and location on construction sites
Authors: Al‐Hussein Mohamed , Alkass Sabah , Moselhi Osama
Published: June 2007

This paper presents a newly developed algorithm for selecting and locating mobile cranes on construction sites. The algorithm is incorporated into a computer system that integrates a selection module and three databases, dedicated respectively, for cranes, rigging equipment, and projects’ information. This paper focuses primarily on the selection module and its algorithm to support an efficient search for most suitable crane configurations and their associated lift settings. Data pertinent to crane lift configurations and settings are retrieved from the databases and processed to determine the near optimum selection of a crane configuration. The developed selection module features powerful graphics capabilities and a practical user‐friendly interface, designed to facilitate the considerations of user imposed lift and site constraints. The selection algorithm has been implemented within the crane selection module using MS‐Visual Basic programming language. A case example is presented in order to demonstrate the use of the developed selection module and to illustrate its essential features.
A temporal typology for innovation within the construction industry
Authors: Eaton D.
Published: June 2007

Without innovation a business does not have a rational source of competitive advantage in construction (CAC), necessary for appropriating added value. Various management research papers have identified factors that may create innovation conditions. Other researchers have shown how industries have innovated through time. This paper draws upon both sources to show a temporal development for the strategic introduction of innovation within the construction industry. This paper develops the temporal typology as a model for identifying and developing potential sources of innovation. The model (which
consists of an ordered set of four epochs) provides a typology of innovation based on different routes through the epochs that together describe the different innovation (business cycle) contexts which can be utilised to identify which sources of innovation may be most appropriate in order to create a further (and higher) source of added value. This paper illustrates the representativeness of the model to “real‐life” businesses.
Animation‐based construction schedule review
Authors: Songer Anthony D. , Diekmann James E. , Karet Douglas
Published: June 2007

Three‐dimensional (3‐D) computer aided design (CAD) and its integration with project schedules (4‐D CAD) are promising technologies in design and construction. This paper represents a second study on the effectiveness of visualization on project planning. While the initial study investigated 2‐D, 3‐D and walk‐thru technologies’ impact on project schedule development, the subsequent study reported herein, focuses on the impact of 3‐D/4‐D visualization on project schedule review. Experimental results provide quantitative evidence of the advantages of 3‐D/4‐D representations for schedule review for construction projects.
Modelling empirical data to support project cost estimating: neural networks versus traditional methods
Authors: Vojinovic Zoran , Kecman Vojislav
Published: June 2007

In this paper we are presenting our research findings on how effective neural networks are at forecasting and estimating preliminary project costs. We have shown that neural networks completely outperform traditional techniques in such tasks. In exploring nonlinear techniques almost all of the current research involves neural network techniques, especially multilayer perceptron (MLP) models and other statistical techniques and few authors have considered radial basis function neural network (RBF NN) models in their research. For this purpose we have developed RBF NN models to represent nonlinear static and dynamic processes and compared their performance with traditional methods. The traditional methods applied in this paper are multiple linear regression (MLR) and autoregressive moving average models with eXogenous input (ARMAX). The performance of these and RBF neural network and traditional models is tested on common data sets and their results are presented.
Implementation of VR systems: a comparison between the early adoption of CAD and current uptake of VR
Authors: Whyte Jennifer , Bouchlaghem Dino
Published: June 2007

Use of new technologies, such as virtual reality (VR), is important to corporations, yet understanding of their successful implementation is insufficiently developed. In this paper a case study is used to analyse the introduction of VR use in a British housebuilding company. Although the implementation was not successful in the manner initially anticipated, the study provides insight into the process of change, the constraints that inhibit implementation and the relationship between new technology and work organization. Comparison is made with the early use of CAD and similarities and differences between empirical findings of the case study and the previous literature are discussed.
A new cost control model and indicators to measure productivity on building sites
Authors: Al Abo Omar Emad , Mangin Jean‐Claude
Published: June 2007

An accurate estimation of project costs is always a great challenge for a construction company, particularly when there is a commitment with the owner to achieve a project at a given price. It is thus essential to develop technical and logistic solutions (TLS) ensuring a good organisation and improving the productivity. These improvements are not yet well assessed because relevant models are not available at the right time. This paper presents a new approach for assessing productivity by using an analytical cost model and indicators widely used to measure the site productivity. A case study is described to validate the cost and indicator model. They can be used in a decision making process consisting of a comparative study of different TLS in order to select, in a predicted term, the TLS ensuring the best productivity. A decision support system for generating different alternatives to be compared is currently under development.
A formalised model of the information and materials handling activities in the construction process
Authors: Björk Bo‐Christer
Published: June 2007

A model of the information and material activities that comprise the overall construction process is presented, using the structured analysis and design technique (SADT) activity modelling methodology. The basic model is refined into a number of generic information handling activities such as the creation of new information, information search and retrieval, information distribution and person‐to‐person communication. The viewpoint could be described as that of information logistics. The model is then combined with a more traditional building process model, consisting of key phases such as design and construction. The resulting two‐dimensional matrix can be used for positioning different types of generic IT‐tools or construction‐specific applications. The model can thus provide a starting point for a discussion of the application of information and communication technology in construction and for measuring its impact on the overall process and its related cost.
Automatic generation of data representations for construction applications
Authors: Aouad Ghassan , Sun Ming , Faraj Ishan
Published: June 2007

This paper presents an argument for automating data representations within the construction sector. It questions whether full automation and integration is feasible and achievable considering the complexity of the industry and supply chain problems. The paper starts by reviewing the research in the area of information automation, modelling and integration. A research prototype, GALLICON, is used as an example to demonstrate the levels of integration and automation that may be achieved with the current generation of technology.
Automating the construction workplace: positioning and navigational factors
Authors: Seward Derek W.
Published: June 2007

The adaptation of conventional robots to construction sites is fraught with problems. Most significant of these are in relation to positioning, means of collision avoidance, and appropriate navigation strategy. This paper reviews the different levels of navigational autonomy that are possible and describes the system requirements for each. A taxonomy based on the concept of a Mobility Automation Level (MAL) is proposed. Each level is described and the requirements from a robot design perspective are discussed. Finally, a case study, based on an excavator with autonomously optimised movement, known as LUCIE, is used to illustrate some of the design criteria previously described and discussed.
Automation in infrastructure construction
Authors: Haas Carl T. , Kim Young‐Suk
Published: June 2007

Infrastructure construction has experienced significant recent advances in automation. Such advances will only accelerate in the future. They are founded on enabling technologies such as positioning systems, advanced control methods, and graphical interfaces. This paper begins by describing the relevance of these enabling technologies to automation in infrastructure construction. It then focuses on classes of applications, including earth moving, compaction, road construction and maintenance, and trenchless technology. Because of the less regulated, relatively repetitive, and well‐financed nature of such work, it is likely to experience quicker progress than other application domains.
Autonomous vehicles in the construction process
Authors: Ibañez‐Guzmán Javier , Malcolm Andrew A.
Published: June 2007

This paper explores the technologies necessary for the development of autonomous ground vehicles to be used in the construction process. Consideration is given to the technological challenges to be resolved for the machines to evolve in an almost unstructured environment. The paper includes sample cases of current applications and examines future perspectives on the use of these devices. Emphasis is placed on the collaborative aspects that need to be developed between man and machine in order to make effective use of these resources on site.
Document decomposition by content as a means for structuring building project information
Authors: Tunçer B. , Stouffs R. , Sariyildiz S.
Published: June 2007

Web‐based document management applications serve to store, organize, and manage a collection of documents within the context of a building project. The organization of documents, using mechanisms for indexing and relating these, aims to build an information structure that supports effective searching and browsing. We present a methodology for a stronger integration of project documents of different formats into a rich, highly interrelated, information structure. Specifically, we propose a decomposition of project documents by content in relation to a semantic structure for the categorization of document components. We consider a notion of typologies from architecture as a guide for constructing such a semantic structure. We discuss the application of this methodology to building projects, and propose its use in Web‐based document management applications in the AEC industry. As an illustration of this methodology, we describe a prototype application, as a presentation tool for architectural analyses in an educational context.
A model for the automated generation of earthwork planning activities
Authors: Mawdesley M.J. , A‐Jibouri S.H. , Askew W.H. , Patterson D.E.
Published: June 2007

A review of techniques used in industry showed that there is an absence of a formalised, systematic approach to earthworks planning. The techniques used tend to be subjective and time consuming with a heavy reliance given to the experience and knowledge of the planner. This absence of a formalised technique can lead to inaccurate planning and makes explanation of the techniques difficult. This paper describes the development of a new automated approach for use by the planners to generate earthworks activities that overcomes such limitations. As well as creating activity sets in a much shorter time, the ability to compare various sets allows the planner more scope when planning earthworks. The model is able to generate activity sets that are comparable to those generated by a project planner.
System dynamics modeling of design and build construction projects
Authors: Chritamara S. , Ogunlana S.O. , Bach N.L.
Published: June 2007

Design and build (D/B) construction methods have gained more importance in recent years for their potential advantages in improving project performance. There are, however, a number of problems that are commonplace in D/B procurement, which, when they interact with each other, can lead to project time and cost overrun problems. The most important among them are design changes, together with communication and coordination lapses among concerned parties. Past research has focused only on the characteristics of the traditional construction, or separate sub‐systems such as different phases or human resource input to projects. An attempt is made in this paper to improve D/B project time and cost performance. A generic system dynamics model is developed that incorporates major sub‐systems and their relationships inherent in D/B constructions projects. It is validated and calibrated for a typical large D/B infrastructure project using time and cost overrun problems experienced in Thailand. Extensive simulations with many policies, individually or in various combinations, show that improvement in time or cost can be made with proper policy combinations that reflect strong interactions between the whole design and build system and can be derived only if these interactions are accounted for. To achieve overall improvement in both time and cost, the combination of full overtime schedule, average material ordering, and fast track construction with moderate crashing of design is most appropriate. If cost is the focus, extending the construction schedule, combined with material ordering based on actual need, and design and build with traditional construction method is the best solution.
Webfill before landfill: an e‐commerce model for waste exchange in Hong Kong
Authors: Chen Zhen , Li Heng , Wong Conrad T.C.
Published: June 2007

Although the Trip‐ticket System (TTS) has been implemented to manage construction and demolition (C&D) waste in Hong Kong for over three years, problems still exist in the landfill disposal of the C&D waste. For example, it is reported that fees are difficult to collect from waste transporters for tipping the C&D waste at the landfill site. Based on an examination of the flexibility of the TTS, this paper proposes an e‐commerce model, namely the Webfill system, in order to enhance the TTS. The computational structure of the Webfill system is described and the usefulness of Webfill is evaluated
based on a simulation which provides a direct comparison between the existing TTS and the Webfill‐enhanced TTS.
ELECTRE III in evaluating performance of construction plants: case study on concrete vibrators
Authors: Tam C.M. , Tong Thomas K.L. , Lau C.T.
Published: June 2007

In this paper, we discuss how a multi‐criteria decision‐making technique (ELECTRE III) facilitates construction practitioners in decision making for selecting an appropriate construction plant. We first introduce the theoretical background of the technique. Then a case study on how to apply the technique to select concrete vibrators is presented. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the model in outranking various options in the process of concrete vibrator selection. The use of ELECTRE III can systematically analyse expert judgments on the decision factors and alternatives that can rationalize the selection process.
Online Remote Construction Management trials in Queensland Department of Main Roads: a participant’s perspective
Authors: Thorpe D.
Published: June 2007

This paper describes research into use of Online Remote Construction Management (ORCM) on road construction projects, from the perspective of an industry representative in the research project. The aim of ORCM is to use advanced electronic communication technologies to enhance online real‐time communication between the parties to a construction project, and thus improve the project delivery process. It aims to maximize the use of time of personnel and reduce paperwork. A typical trial construction project in the Queensland Department of Main Roads, with which the author was employed at the time of writing this paper, is described. This site used a Web‐based system to manage communications. Observed benefits from using ORCM and issues in implementation are discussed. While the process is promising, there needs to be additional review into the attendant risks and cultural issues, and the ways in which these matters are addressed.
An internet‐based decision support system for healthcare project appraisal: a conceptual proposal
Authors: Abdou A. , Lewis J. , Radaideh M.
Published: June 2007

This paper presents an internet‐based decision support system (DSS) conceptual proposal for the appraisal stage of healthcare construction projects. The underlying philosophy of the approach is to integrate architectural space programming and costestimating processes with a risk assessment approach in order to obtain a more accurate inception cost estimate of the healthcare project along with its preliminary space program outline. The system’s main objectives focus on assisting decision makers in the United Arab Emirates in examining different space program alternatives with their associated capital budgets. In addition, the system will assist in reflecting associated risk factors and affecting budget approval decisions in their inception stage. The Internet is utilized as a mechanism for communicating and updating project data and cost information. This paper describes a conceptual design proposal for the system and the proposed strategy for its design and construction.
Implementing information management in construction: establishing problems, concepts and practice
Authors: Gyampoh‐Vidogah Regina , Moreton Robert , Proverbs David
Published: June 2007

Information management practice falls under various themes: vision and policy, change implementation, alignment of strategies to information technology (IT), business process re‐engineering, the review of new systems and IT infrastructure. It has been found from exploratory case studies in the construction industry that the current management of information is characterized by systems in which: (1) information exchange between project parties is limited to paper, a medium in which retrieval is very slow and inefficient; (2) functional departments maintain their own data structured to suit their particular needs; (3) most information searching and transfer between project parties and clients are paper based, providing constant source of delays; (4) no efficient interfaces exist between departmental systems to access information electronically;and (5) the impact of IT investment to date has been limited. These characteristics can be first traced to the general lack of coherent management policy and vision on information management. Also, although construction is a distinctly collaborative business environment, for historical, cultural and legal reasons, there is no desire to consider seriously the use of collaborative IT tools. Thirdly, although there is a degree of knowledge of business process evaluation and improvement techniques such as business process re‐engineering (BPR), it appears there is less confidence for management to adopt such tools in its drive to solve information management problems. Finally, the lack of progress in adopting IT to widely improve communication is related to the fact that until now stand‐alone departmental systems have been the norm. Above all, the culture of the industry dictates that each function maintains total independence in all aspects including information retrieval and exchange. The result is that experience of implementing corporate IT systems is lacking and it is clearly affecting the ability to examine the potential of emerging IT or appraise current infrastructure.
Public Project Programming System (3PS): a decision support system for public sector investment
Authors: Mezher T. , Abdul‐Malak M.A. , Arnaout S. , Bassil Z.
Published: June 2007

Public investment programming is a complex exercise and involves a number of factors. These include social, economical, environmental, technological and political factors. In addition, each of the factors depends on many subfactors. For example, the economic factor depends on project impact on local and national economy, number of beneficiaries, and opportunity cost of work lost. The Public Projects Programming System (3PS) is mainly a decision support system aimed at helping senior decision makers in the public sector to program the implementation of public investment projects. A multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) approach was used based on the weighted average multi‐criteria analysis (WAMA) model. The structure (database, model base, and user interface) of the 3PS is presented. A case study, in the northern suburbs of Beirut, shows the implementation of the system in a real post conflict reconstruction environment in Lebanon.
An empirical investigation into the link between information technology implementation barriers and coping strategies in the Australian construction industry
Authors: Stewart R.A. , Mohamed S. , Marosszeky M.
Published: June 2007

The need for the improved implementation of information technology (IT) has been identified in both empirical and highly structured research studies as being critical to effective innovation and development at an industry and enterprise level. This need is greater in the construction industry as it has been relatively slow to embrace the full potential of IT‐based technologies. In an attempt to understand why the construction industry lags other industries in the uptake and effective implementation of IT, this study reports on an investigation of the Australian construction industry, which identifies the impediments or barriers to IT implementation and the most effective coping strategies to overcome them. A questionnaire‐based research approach was adopted for this purpose and a total of 134 valid survey responses were received from various architectural, engineering and construction professionals. The questionnaire was designed to identify perceptions of the most significant barriers to IT implementation and to determine the most “practical” and “effective” corresponding coping strategies to mitigate their effects at three decision‐making levels: Industry; Organization; and Project.
The challenge of customer orientation in the construction industry
Authors: Fadhil Dulaimi Mohammed
Published: June 2007

The construction industry has been criticized, in many countries around the world, for not keeping pace with developments in the rest of the economy. One of the key issues the construction industry needs to address is how to become “customer oriented”. This paper argues that the concept of customer orientation in construction has been influenced by the passive approach to product definition adopted by professional advisors and consultants. The paper will examine the current knowledge of the customer orientation concept and present a research model that can be used to examine the effectiveness of current practices in providing satisfactory products and services to customers. The paper will report the results of an investigation into the effectiveness of existing methods, practices and philosophies deployed by organizations involved in construction in identifying customer needs.
A knowledge‐driven management approach to environmental‐conscious construction
Authors: Chen Zhen , Li Heng , Kong Stephen C.W. , Xu Qian
Published: June 2007

This paper aims to introduce a knowledge‐based managemental prototype entitled E+ for environmental‐conscious construction relied on an integration of current environmental management tools in construction area. The overall objective of developing the E+ prototype is to facilitate selectively reusing the retrievable knowledge in construction engineering and management areas assembled from previous projects for the best practice in environmental‐conscious construction. The methodologies adopted in previous and ongoing research related to the development of the E+ belong to the operations research area and the information technology area, including literature review, questionnaire survey and interview, statistical analysis, system analysis and development, experimental research and simulation, and so on. The content presented in this paper includes an advanced E+ prototype, a comprehensive review of environmental management tools integrated to the E+ prototype, and an experimental case study of the implementation of the E+ prototype. It is expected that the adoption and implementation of the E+ prototype can effectively facilitate contractors to improve their environmental performance in the lifecycle of projectbased construction and to reduce adverse environmental impacts due to the deployment of various engineering and management processes at each construction stage.
The analytic network process (ANP) approach to location selection: a shopping mall illustration
Authors: Cheng Eddie W.L. , Li Heng , Yu Ling
Published: June 2007

This paper presents the employment of the analytic network process (ANP) to select the best site for a shopping mall. ANP is an innovative and robust multicriteria decision‐making (MCDM) method because it can produce a comprehensive analytic framework for solving societal, governmental, and corporate decision problems. Yet, there is a lack of published papers in the construction field demonstrating the method with illustrative examples. In the current paper, it is suggested that ANP is appropriate for shopping mall location selection. An example is therefore demonstrated. In order to explicate the difference between ANP and analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the findings obtained from the two methods are compared. Results of the comparison indicate that ANP is a powerful tool to solve the decision problem if interdependent relationships have substantial impacts in the decision model.
Exploratory factors influencing information and communication technology diffusion and adoption within Australian construction organizations: a micro analysis
Authors: Peansupap Vachara , Walker Derek
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to explore and identify factors affecting adoption and implementation of information and communication technology (ICT) in large ICT‐experienced Australian construction organizations. During 2002 the researchers undertook an online survey, supplemented by a hardcopy collection option, to gather data from three major construction organizations with many years experience with implementing and adopting IT. The analysis concentrated on a common class of ICT adopted across the three organizations so that factor analysis could be validly undertaken. Results identified 11 factors that were found to influence ICT diffusion and adoption by the organizations that were grouped into management, individual, technology and workplace environment categories. These concurred with theory from the change management, innovation diffusion and organizational learning literature. Further, in‐depth qualitative analysis through case studies (beyond the scope of this paper) also helped to explain and make sense of the results. The results help to better explain human related factors in particular in terms of the broader and emerging literature of organizational learning and innovation adoption with a clear focus on how the people‐side of ICT diffusion and adoption is undertaken. This ICT diffusion and adoption study is undertaken at the firm‐level (micro analysis) as opposed to the industry level (macro analysis) and so provides insights into the interplay between diffusion and adoption concepts.
The application of GIS to construction labour market planning
Authors: Anumba Claire , Dainty A.R.J. , Ison S.G. , Sergeant Amanda
Published: June 2007

The UK construction industry faces unprecedented skills demands which have been fuelled by sustained sectoral growth and a concurrent downturn in the number of young people entering the industry. However, patterns of supply and demand are not uniform across the country, with regional and local skills shortages being determined by the specific socio‐economic context of the area under consideration. Thus, developing effective labour market policy demands spatially‐oriented labour market information which can be reconciled against industry growth forecasts within a particular region or locality. This paper explores the potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in providing such a mechanism for enhancing the labour market planning process. The paper details how GIS can aid construction labour market planning through its ability to integrate disparate labour market information efficiently, thereby placing analysts in a better position to understand specific spatial patterns. A range of datasets were strategically combined in order to reveal regional nuances in labour demand and supply which would be difficult to discern without the use of such a tool. Although the GIS output would need to be considered in combination with a range of other forecasting techniques if robust projects of labour demand and shortage are to be generated, it nevertheless offers an effective decision‐support tool for informing labour market policy in the future.
Outsourcing: Ensuring survival with strategic global partners
Authors: Incognito Joseph D.
Published: June 2007

The new millennium has already presented the Facility Manager with more challenges than the last decade. Fiscal survival, global dominance and, of late, total enterprise security will become the critical issues managed by the Facility Manager in 2002. Unlike a magician, he has no rabbits to pull out of a hat or coins from an ear, the Facility Manager must make timely proactive decisions to make or buy or to stay with or change suppliers of products and services to their respective enterprise. Global outsourcing represents a powerful option to the Facility Manager. The author aims to help the Facility Manager hold existing outsource providers accountable to measurable results and forecasted outcomes, presents a compelling story for new outsource ventures and even addresses outsourcing relationships that need to be strengthened and renewed to allow the Facility Managers to deal with the multiplicity of their position. Lowering the total costs against outsourcing budgets while exceeding the expectations of the enterprise can be achieved with strategic global partners if the reader follows the recommendations of this paper.
Maximising FM’s contribution to shareholder value Part I: Can the capital expenditure process for fixed assets be improved?
Authors: Lynch Barry
Published: June 2007

Planning and implemating fixed asset capital projects that increase shareholder value is problematic because the process spans the entire enterprise and requires the coordinated efforts of professionals in the areas of accounting, finance, real estate, facility management, tax, engineering and project management. In many respects the process is only as strong as its weakest link. Initiatives to improve the process must start with an understanding of capital budgeting, and require executive sponsorship and vision as well as a functioning capital budgeting system. This paper is the first of a two part series that provides an overview of the importance of capital budgeting and explains the four types of capital budgeting decisions that most executives face. Part II builds upon the basics covered in Part I and lists more than twenty improvement tactics that can be implemented by organisations and individuals.
Strategic asset management incorporating ecologically sustainable development
Authors: Barton Roy , Jones Delwyn , Gilbert Dale
Published: June 2007

Strategic asset management (SAM) provides guiding principles for strategic planning, procurement, use and disposal of public sector buildings. It is proposed that the whole SAM process must incorporate the principles and practices of ecologically sustainable development (ESD) founded upon intra‐generational equity, intergenerational equity, biodiversity, precaution, true cost assessment and continuous improvement principles. The paper presents observations and interim conclusions from a research project to develop a methodology of SAM incorporating the principles and practices of ESD. The paper describes the principles of SAM and ESD, makes observations about actual and potential connections and puts forward a matrix which correlates steps in SAM processes with desired outcomes of ESD. This matrix exploits a life‐cycle assessment approach used to develop planning frameworks, useful for developing macro‐level concepts such as ecological footprints and micro‐level building performance benchmarks. It is postulated that the goal of ‘sustainable building’ must become embedded in existing processes of SAM and in any improvements to those processes. It is understood that any integrated system of SAM and ESD will use, conserve and enhance the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased.
The performance measurement of corporate real estate portfolio management
Authors: Varcoe Barry
Published: June 2007

In today’s highly charged economic environment, all organisations have to make the most of all of the resources and assets at their disposal. Within corporate real estate this increasingly means adopting a portfolio approach to the management function. This paper assesses the adoption of performance management processes at this level through the review of practising leading corporate real estate teams. In documenting the measures deployed and how they are used, it identifies shortcomings and proposes an improved approach. The practical application of this is illustrated using a hypothetical case example, together with a list of potential measures.
A review of the leading performance measurement tools for assessing buildings
Authors: McDougall Gavin , Kelly John R. , Hinks John , Bititci Umit S.
Published: June 2007

With the purpose of creating a forum for discussion on the scope and nature of building performance evaluation. This paper provides a definition of performance measurement from an organisational perspective, and a review of three leading industry tools for post‐occupancy evaluation that examines the gap between evaluation and measurement. The paper concludes by asking what role facilities managers might play in building performance appraisal, what barriers cost imposes on measurement of the built infrastructure, and what are the limitations regarding the methods included in the review.
Outsourcing facilities management in the process industry: A comparison of Swedish and UK patterns
Authors: Bröchner Jan , Adolfsson Per , Johansson Marcus
Published: June 2007

The use of external providers, multiple or single, for peripheral support services has expanded during the 1990s. This
investigation analyses patterns of support service outsourcing against a background of industry and national differences.
Questionnaires and interviews with managers of three Swedish and three UK process industry plants (chemical, newspaper and steel) show to what extent facilities management (FM) and FMrelated services were outsourced in 2000 and expectations for the next two years. Why process industries tend to rely less on outsourcing than other manufacturing industries can be partly explained by the consequences of process interruption. The UK tendency to outsource is stronger than in the Swedish cases, probably owing to stronger ties between employers and employees in the Swedish process industry. The management of skills and tacit knowledge also emerge as explanations. Lower population density in Sweden may contribute to a higher degree of integration in companies.
Evaluating community facilities in local government: Managing for service enablement
Authors: Brackertz Nicola , Kenley Russell
Published: June 2007

Strategic management of facilities is now generally accepted best practice. Appraisal of facility performance has developed correspondingly and financial measures are no longer seen as the prime indicator of success. Holistic models that include the processes supporting fulfilment of an organisation’s strategic aims are now considered to provide more appropriate measures. Recent focus in the service‐oriented context of local government authority (LGA) facility management has particularly turned toward such models. This paper discusses the issues and inherent tensions arising from the strategic measurement of local government facilities in a service delivery context. It is argued that outwardly the strategic objective of service delivery is common to the private and public sectors, but fundamental differences in the desired outcomes and responsibilities of the two sectors require different solutions. Even if one accepts the current trend in ‘balanced’ performance measurement, differing parameters in the private and public sectors impact on the design and evaluation of performance measures, especially in relation to process, efficiency, strategy formulation and responsiveness of the organisation to customer needs. If a facility is considered to be an enabler of processes that lead to desired outcomes, these differences must necessarily affect the design of facility performance measurement tools. The research with eight LGAs, reported here, supports the need for a new model for the evaluation of community facilities applicable in the local government context. Using stakeholder‐based focus groups, the need was identified for a service‐oriented model, where the facility is understood as the intersection of aspects of service provision, physical building substance and the community utilising the facility.