bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crane overlap and operational flexibility: balancing utilization, duration, and safety
Authors: Al Hattab Malak , Zankoul Emile , Barakat Mohammad , Hamzeh Farook 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
With tower cranes being the site hubs, thoroughly planning and managing their operations can result in better construction performance. As urban spaces become more constricted, overlapping working radii of tower cranes becomes inevitable. While project planners are concerned with safety hazards, research has not comprehensively addressed workload distribution and synchronization of overlapping cranes. Therefore, this study aims at exploring the impact of overlapping cranes, used on high-rise buildings, on operational flexibility which is the balance between schedule duration, crane utilization and safety.

Design/methodology/approach
A simulation model was developed and applied on a real project to analyze and compare the impacts of different overlap sizes. Seven scenarios of different overlap sizes, i.e. different number of tasks falling in the overlap space, were executed in the model; their results were plotted and analyzed.

Findings
The outcomes result from several compounded factors such as the experience of planners and crane operators, the sequencing of critical versus non-critical activities and the overall effort and care taken when planning operations of overlapping cranes. Increasing overlap size can be beneficial or unfavorable depending on how properly planners allocate overlapping cranes to workload demand, keeping in mind that there are certain trade-offs while achieving operational flexibility.

Originality/value
While project planners are concerned with safety hazards associated with crane overlaps, research has not been comprehensively nor proactively addressing the workload distribution and synchronization of overlapping crane processes. This study contributes to science by addressing the need to harness the flexibility in using overlapping tower cranes while minimizing the resulting interruptions and safety risks. This study sheds light on the potential benefits of allowing cranes to overlap while considering their collision free operations. Operational flexibility is seen as the balance between achieving shorter schedule durations and higher crane utilizations while maintaining collision free motion paths.
Penalty mechanisms for enforcing concessionaire performance in public–private partnership contracts in Nigeria
Authors: Opawole Akintayo 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop penalty measures against concessionaires’ defaults as a mechanism for protecting the interests of parties (public and private) in public–private partnership (PPP) contracts for enhancing project delivery.

Design/methodology/approach
The research methodology is a mixed qualitative and quantitative approach. This study commenced with an in-depth literature review, which provided the basis for identification of penalty measures in construction contract management. The qualitative assessment was based on semi-structured face-to-face interviews, which were aimed at identifying the underlying pattern of the penalty measures, and the quantitative assessment was based on a structured questionnaire. In both cases, respondents were stakeholders’ organizations that had been involved in PPP contracts in the southwestern region of Nigeria. These include industrial practitioners from government-based organizations (ministries, agencies, corporations/parastatals, etc.), private developers/concessionaires, law firms, banks, etc. The sample size was selected using a respondent-driven sampling approach, as the comprehensive lists of the participants in PPP contracts are not readily available in the Nigerian construction industry. Responses from the interview were analysed using interpretative phenomenal analysis via ATLAS.ti7. The quantitative data were analysed using percentile for flexibility between “most” and “more” preferred mechanisms.

Findings
This study developed mechanisms that defined the rights of the public party to redress underperformance of PPP contracts consequent to the defaults of the private party. “Step-in-right” and “termination of the contracts” were preferred against specific cases of “delayed execution”, “abandonment of the project”, “bankruptcy of the concessionaire” and “non-compliance with design and specifications”. With respect to “shortfall in performance against established dates”, the results converged on “monetary fine” and diverged on “step-in-right” and “termination of the contracts”.

Practical implications
The study contributes to literature on mechanisms for enforcing PPP project performance. Besides, defining rights and obligations of the parties in specific events of underperformance of the concessionaires in PPP contracts is a significant step towards the development of standard conditions of contract for managing PPP projects in which the model is being newly adopted.

Originality/value
Project management studies on PPP were extended by defining the liabilities that are consequent to the defaults of the private party and the mechanisms for their enforcement.
Development and validation of disability management indicators for the construction industry
Authors: Quaigrain Rhoda Ansah , Issa Mohamed H. 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
Support at the organizational and managerial levels defines the degree to which construction workplaces can accommodate disabled and injured workers. There is little empirical evidence about the indicators and practices that can be used by construction organizations to evaluate disability management (DM). This paper aims to develop and validate key indicators and practices of disability/injury management within construction.

Design/methodology/approach
To achieve this, the research used a two-phase sequential exploratory review of literature, followed by a quantitative phase, using analytic hierarchy process. The analytical hierarchy process (AHP) involved recruiting eight health and safety and DM experts to conduct pairwise comparisons of these indicators.

Findings
The results found return-to-work and disability and injury management practices to be the most important indicators and physical accessibility and claims management practices to be the least important.

Practical implications
The development of these indicators should help construction organizations develop DM programs that better meet their needs, and benchmark and improve related performance.

Social implications
The results could also be useful for all stakeholders in general and decision makers in particular involved within construction.

Originality/value
Such prioritization helps organizations to prioritize their DM practices thereby optimizing performance.
Infrastructure procurement skills gap amongst procurement personnel in Nigeria’s public sector
Authors: Mahamadu Abdul-Majeed , Manu Patrick , Booth Colin , Olomolaiye Paul , Coker Akinwale , Ibrahim Ahmed , Lamond Jessica 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
Procurement of public infrastructure that is fit for purpose partly depends on the competencies of procurement personnel. In many developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, there is a deficit in the quantity and quality of infrastructure and their procurement is further riddled with deficiencies in the capacity of public procuring entities. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the critical skills development needs of public personnel involved in the procurement of infrastructure in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach
Based on a quantitative research strategy, this study sought to address the knowledge gap through a survey of public infrastructure procurement personnel (n = 288) in different tiers of government (i.e. state and local government) and geopolitical contexts (north and south) in Nigeria.

Findings
Of the 45 procurement skill areas operationalised, there is need for further development in 38 of them including: computing/ICT; problem-solving; communication; decision-making; health and safety management; quality management; relationship management; team building; project monitoring and evaluation; time management and procurement planning.

Originality/value
A key implication of this study is for policymakers in state and local government to formulate and implement infrastructure procurement capacity development reforms that address the competency gaps of procurement personnel. Such reforms need to take into account the suitable methods for developing procurement competencies. Additionally, the procurement skill areas operationalised in this capacity assessment study could serve as a useful blueprint for studying capacity deficiencies amongst public infrastructure procurement personnel in other developing countries.
Behaviour of geosynthetic reinforced column supported embankments
Authors: Yapage Namal , Liyanapathirana Samanthika 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the behaviour of geosynthetic reinforced deep cement mixed (DCM) column-supported embankments constructed over soft soils.

Design/methodology/approach
Coupled consolidation analyses based on the finite element method are carried out assuming that the soil and DCM columns are fully saturated porous mediums. In the first part of the paper, a case study of an embankment constructed over a very soft soil deposit in Finland is presented. Two- and three-dimensional finite element models for the case study are developed including isolated and attached DCM columns beneath the embankment to capture the arching mechanism between DCM columns. The model simulations were carried out considering the actual staged construction procedure adopted in the field. Finite element predictions show good agreement with field data and confirm that the load transfer is mainly between attached columns beneath the embankment. Next, the significance of geosynthetic reinforcement on the load transfer mechanism is investigated. Finally, the influence of permeability of columns and soft soil on the performance of geosynthetic reinforcement column-supported embankments is studied.

Findings
Results demonstrate that the excess pore pressure dissipation rate is fast in DCM column-improved ground compared to the same case without any columns, although the same permeability is assigned to both DCM columns and surrounding soft soil. When DCM column permeability exceeds soil permeability, excess pore pressure dissipation rate shows a remarkable increase compared to that observed when the DCM column permeability is less than or equal to the permeability of surrounding soft soil. [ ]

Originality/value
This paper investigates the contribution of permeability and geosynthetic layer on the vertical load transfer mechanism of the embankment and modelling issues related to application of the embankment load and the properties of the cement-improved columns.
The role of IT in automotive supplier supply chains
Authors: Fuchs Christoph , Beck Daniel , Lienland Bernhard , Kellner Florian 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of information technology (IT) on supply chain performance in the automotive industry. Prior studies that analyzed the impact of IT on supply chain performance report results representing the situation of the “average industry.” This research focuses on the automotive industry because of its major importance in many national economies and due to the fact that automotive supply chains do not represent the supply chain of the average industry.

Design/methodology/approach
A research model is proposed to examine the relationships between IT capabilities, supply chain capabilities, and supplier performance. The model divides IT capabilities into functional and data capabilities, and supply chain capabilities into internal process excellence and information sharing. Data have been collected from 343 automotive first-tier suppliers. Structural equation modeling with partial least squares is used to analyze the data.

Findings
The results suggest that functional capabilities have the greatest impact on internal process excellence, which in turn enhances supplier performance. However, frequent and adequate information sharing also contributes significantly to supplier performance. Data capabilities enable supply chain capabilities through their positive impact on functional capabilities.

Practical implications
The findings will help managers to understand the effect of IT implementation on company performance and to decide whether to invest in the expansion of IT capacities.

Originality/value
This research reports the impact of IT on supply chain performance in one of the most important industries in many industrialized countries, and it provides a new perspective on evaluating the contribution of IT on firm performance.
Business excellence via advanced manufacturing technology and lean-agile manufacturing
Authors: Ghobakhloo Morteza , Azar Adel 
Published: December 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to the existing knowledge about the relationships between advanced manufacturing technology (AMT), lean manufacturing (LM), agile manufacturing (AM), and business performance.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire-based survey was performed to collect data from 189 Iranian automobile part manufacturers. Statistical analysis of hypothesized relationships was conducted via partial least squares structural equation modeling.FindingsAMT significantly contributes to the development of both LM and AM. These manufacturing systems can co-exist in one system, and LM is a precursor to AM. LM contributes to operational performance whereas AM improves marketing performance and financial performance.Research limitations/implicationsRelying on the cross-sectional data of this research, and lack of generalizability of findings are key limitations. An interesting direction for future research would be to empirically offer a hybrid lean-agile approach and further map the mechanism through which this hybrid approach can be achieved in practice.Practical implicationsBoth LM and AM are information-intensive and highly supported by AMT. They contribute to different aspects of business performance. Pursuing both cost-leadership strategy and product mix flexibility is viable via hybridizing the lean and agile systems.Originality/valueThis study is among the first to address issues related to the lean-AM relationship among developing countries. This study is unique in the sense it shows the mechanism through which the value of AMT is truly transformed to performance improvement.
Exploring the key success factors of advanced manufacturing technology implementation in Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Kumar Raman , Singh Harwinder , Chandel Rohit 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to explore the relationship between success parameters and implementation of advanced manufacturing technology (AMT); and second, to examine the changes required in manufacturing system as a result of AMT implementation.

Design/methodology/approach
The first order confirmatory factor analysis was performed to validate the presence of observed variables on their respective latent variable. Structural equation modeling is used to test the considered eight hypotheses.

Findings
The finding indicates that all five success factors are positively related to the AMT implementation. The redesign in the production system and organization strategy is directly related to the AMT implementation. The notable finding is the AMT implementation has no direct impact on the redesign of human resource, but it has mediated impact through the production system.

Research limitations/implications
The originality and reliability of data collected for research purpose merely depends upon information and the accessible resources.

Originality/value
The outcome of the present work gives rise to meaningful implications for researchers and practitioners as well.
Reverse supply chain practices in developing countries: the case of Morocco
Authors: El Baz Jamal , Frei Regina , Laguir Issam 
Published: December 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate reverse supply chain (RSC) practices and their obstacles using case studies of Moroccan companies. The authors present the main findings of case studies’ analysis along with a discussion of an RSC framework for further directions of research.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative approach was adopted and semi-structured interviews with Moroccan companies were conducted using an interview guide.FindingsThe authors present an RSC model that encompasses remanufacturing, refurbishing and disposal processes. The authors believe that this model would constitute a promising framework for further research. The findings show that the successful implementation of RSC depends on many factors, but the company’s attitude (proactive or conservative) is one of the most critical determinants in RSC initiatives. Furthermore, the results of the case studies indicate two types of inhibitors: external and internal. These findings confirm the results of previous research on environmental sustainability obstacles in general and RSC obstacles in particular.Research limitations/implicationsThis study has some limitations that provide future research opportunities. Because this study is qualitative, further statistical support is needed to justify wider generalisation of its findings. Further studies might therefore investigate RSC practices in developing countries other than Morocco to increase the external validity of the results.Practical implicationsThe findings can help firms to gain better understanding of their RSC and particularly the link between forward and RSCs. Consequently, companies can upgrade their business models to better control their RSC activities.Originality/valueThe relevant literature about RSC practices has mainly targeted manufacturing sectors in developed countries, and few studies have been conducted on developing countries. Research on RSC practices in developing countries in general and African countries in particular is sparse. This is one of the first articles written to address this gap by investigating RSC practices in Morocco.
Additive manufacturing in the wood-furniture sector
Authors: Murmura Federica , Bravi Laura 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
In the world economy there is the emergence of advanced manufacturing technologies that are enabling more cost and resource-efficient small-scale production. Among them, additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is leading companies to rethink where and how they conduct their manufacturing activities. The purpose of this paper is to focus in the Italian wood-furniture industry to understand if the companies in this sector are investing in additive manufacturing techniques, to remain competitive in their reference markets. The research also attempts to investigate the potential sustainable benefits and limitations to the implementation of 3D printing in this specific sector, considering the companies that have already implemented this technology.

Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected using a structured questionnaire survey performed on a sample of 234 Italian companies in this sector; 76 companies claimed to use 3D printing in their production system. The questionnaire was distributed via computer-assisted web interviewing and it consisted of four sections.

Findings
The research has highlighted how Italian 3D companies have a specific profile; they are companies aimed at innovating through the search for new products and product features, putting design and Made in Italy in the first place. They pay high attention to the image they communicate to the market and are highly oriented to the final customer, and to the satisfaction of its needs.

Originality/value
The study is attempting to expand a recent and unexplored research line on the possible advantages and disadvantages of the implementation of emerging production technologies such as 3D printing.
The emergence and performance of German REITs
Authors: Newell Graeme , Marzuki Muhammad Jufri 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
German real estate investment trusts (REITs) are a small but important property investment vehicle in the European REIT landscape, offering German commercial property investment exposure in a liquid format, compared to the more property development-focused German listed property companies and the popular German open-ended property funds. The purpose of this paper is to assess the emergence of the German REIT market and the risk-adjusted performance and portfolio diversification benefits of German REITs in a mixed-asset portfolio over 2007-2015. The post-global financial crisis (GFC) recovery of German REITs is highlighted. Enabling strategies for the ongoing development of the German REIT market are also identified.

Design/methodology/approach
Using monthly total returns, the risk-adjusted performance and portfolio diversification benefits of German REITs over 2007-2015 are assessed. Efficient frontier and asset allocation diagrams are used to assess the role of German REITs (and German property companies) in a mixed-asset portfolio. Sub-period analysis is used to assess the post-GFC recovery of German REITs.

Findings
German REITs delivered lesser risk-adjusted returns compared to German stocks over 2007-2015, with limited portfolio diversification benefits. However, since the GFC, German REITs have delivered strong risk-adjusted returns, but with continued limited portfolio diversification benefits with German stocks. German REITs also out-performed German property companies. Importantly, this sees German REITs as strongly contributing to the German mixed-asset portfolio across the portfolio risk spectrum in the post-GFC environment.

Practical implications
German REITs are a small but important market at a local, European and global REIT level. The results highlight the major role of German REITs in a German mixed-asset portfolio in the post-GFC context. The strong risk-adjusted performance of German REITs compared to German stocks sees German REITs contributing to the mixed-asset portfolio across the portfolio risk spectrum. This is particularly important, as many investors (e.g. small pension funds) use German REITs (and German listed property companies) to obtain their German property exposure in a liquid format, as well as the increased importance of blended property portfolios of listed property and direct property.

Originality/value
This paper is the first published empirical research analysis of the risk-adjusted performance of German REITs, and the role of German REITs as a listed property vehicle in a mixed-asset portfolio. This research enables empirically validated, more informed and practical property investment decision making regarding the strategic role of German REITs in a portfolio.