bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Progressing the rights to light debate
Authors: Chynoweth Paul 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe paper examines the origins of the so‐called “grumble point” (a sky factor of 0.2 per cent) as the measure of daylight adequacy in rights to light disputes. It seeks to identify the rationale, and underlying scientific basis, for the adoption of this standard in the early twentieth century.Design/methodology/approachAnalysis of archive materials.FindingsThe use of the 0.2 per cent standard does not appear to be based on empirical investigations involving human perceptions of adequate light. No evidence exists of the investigations reputedly undertaken by Percy Waldram during the early twentieth century. Waldram's own writings suggest that the standard began as a “rule of thumb” and was only later justified by reference to other independent reports. These generally do not support the use of the standard and, in any event, were soon superseded by other reports that concluded that it was too low. There is a lack of reliable evidence to justify the original adoption of the 0.2 per cent figure, and many of the assumptions underpinning modern rights to light practice are found to be based on inaccurate information.Research limitations/implicationsContinues the debate, started in this journal in 2000, about the future of surveying practice in rights to light disputes.Practical implicationsPlaces new information in the public domain which has implications for the professional liability of surveyors advising clients in rights to light cases.Originality/valuePresents the first investigation into the original scientific basis for modern rights to light practice since its introduction in the early part of the twentieth century.
Intelligent buildings with radio frequency identification devices
Authors: Sommerville James , Craig Nigel 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe drive for intelligent buildings continues unabated. An intelligent building (IB) is one that provides a responsive and supportive environment within which an organisation can attain a range of objectives, i.e. a building within which the building fabric, space, services and information systems can respond efficiently to the initial and changing demands of the owner, the occupier and the broader environment. This responsiveness requires the ability to collect data and initiate processes which effect changes. Application of radio frequency identification devices (RFID) to the components and processes undertaken within the building allows enhanced data management and process manipulation. The purpose of this paper is to outline how buildings and their management are being changed by the adoption of RFID.Design/methodology/approachThis paper discusses the characteristics of RFIDs and their application in one specific function: the evacuation of a building during a fire. The potential for RFIDs to aid surveyors/facilities managers in many facets of their working life is also highlighted, and a number of additional application areas are discussed in general terms with their impact reviewed in terms of responsiveness and support to the occupants.FindingsThe core area of providing a responsive and supportive environment is where RFID begins to truly deliver on the drive for an IB. The range and size of the devices and their capabilities renders them suitable for inclusion within the basic building materials and components and also the processes that drive provision of the built environment.Originality/valueDiscusses the possible applications of this new technology.
Fire safety evaluation of restaurant facilities
Authors: Hassanain Mohammad A. , Abdul Hafeez Mohammed 
Published: January 2007

PurposeSince the earliest days of mankind, fire has been both a friend and a foe. Restaurant facilities, characterized by the use of fire in their daily activities, pose unique fire risks as large numbers of people may gather at one time to consume food. The objective of this paper is to present the development of a fire safety evaluation tool whereby existing restaurant facilities can be evaluated for the purpose of identifying and eliminating fire hazards, and meeting the minimum requirements of current legislation.Design/methodology/approachThe evaluation tool has been developed by synthesizing information collected from an extensive literature review, principally of North American and UK based literature. The authors found it necessary to review causes of fire accidents in restaurants, and the materials and equipment involved in ignition. The paper also reviews restaurant requirements for fire detection and notification systems, fire suppression and extinguishing systems, and means of egress and evacuation systems.FindingsThe evaluation tool consists of 66 items to assess fire hazards, detection and notification systems, suppression and extinguishing systems, means of escape and management, and maintenance measures.Originality/valueThe paper provides a practical focus for property and/or facility managers responsible for day‐to‐day business operations of restaurant facilities and for surveyors inspecting such properties.
A whole life costing input tool for surveyors in UK local government
Authors: Hunter Kirsty , Hari Subashini , Kelly John 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of the project was to develop a framework document and input tool for use in local government to enable quantity surveyors and others with enough knowledge to produce a life cycle costing analysis with the minimum of effort. The general perception in the surveying profession of the complex formulae associated with whole life costing (WLC) has led to it being described by local government as “a nebulous concept that falls on deaf ears”. This paper seeks to describe research to develop a user‐friendly approach using a generic software input tool accompanied by a framework document designed specially to assist in WLC analyses. An explanation of the mathematical formulae used is also given.Design/methodology/approachThe research project was commissioned by the Society of Construction Quantity Surveyors (SCQS) in mid‐2004 and to date has involved the development of a framework document and WLC input tool which has been tested by local government. The project is in the final stages of completion and training on WLC and use of the developed input tool has commenced.FindingsThe feedback from use of the developed tool by local government quantity surveyors has been positive and the benefits of using such a tool are evident amongst the surveying profession.Practical implicationsThe researchers have had to overcome a number of challenges to ensure the effective running of the tool to the satisfaction of the prospective users – quantity surveyors in local government.Originality/valueA framework document and software tool have been specifically developed for use by quantity surveyors in UK local government.
The impact of RICS education reform on building surveying
Authors: Wilkinson Sara , Hoxley Mike 
Published: January 2007

PurposeIt is of major concern to the surveying profession that the seven years between 1994 and 2001 witnessed a decline in the numbers of UK student surveyors of nearly 50 per cent. This was significant, especially when considered in the context of rising student numbers overall. The RICS decided to implement an education policy with the aim of increasing graduate quality. Changes were introduced in UK universities from September 2001. A number of universities saw their professionally accredited courses withdrawn as the RICS imposed academic entry standards and research output based on the UK Government's Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) criteria on which to base their “partnership” relationships. Figures released by the RICS in 2003 indicated that surveying student numbers increased by 17 per cent in all areas except building surveying, where they fell by just under 25 per cent to 445 in 2001. The paper seeks to answer a number of questions. Why were building surveying courses failing to recruit students whereas other surveying courses have increased their numbers? If the figures continue to decline or remain at these low levels, what is the future for the BS? In short, could building surveying become an endangered profession?Design/methodology/approachAll UK university BS course leaders were approached by questionnaire and approximately half responded. The study was partly funded by the RICS Education Trust.FindingsThe small amount of quantitative data collected suggests that recruitment is static at a time when other built environment courses are recruiting well. Course leaders expressed strong views about the impact of the education reforms.Research limitations/implicationsFailure by some BS course leaders to provide some statistical data prevented completion of the quantitative part of the study.Originality/valueKey recommendations have been made to the BS Faculty Board of the RICS about the future of BS education.
Sustainable design in its simplest form
Authors: Siu‐Yiu Lau Stephen , Garcia Renato , Ou Ying‐Qing , Kwok Man‐Mo , Zhang Ying , Jie Shen Shao , Namba Hitomi 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe aims of the study are to analyze the features of a socially self‐contained society; to analyze the features of an environmentally sustainable society; and to generate a discussion on an indigenous approach towards the sustainable design of communities, particularly through the study of the round village for its unique form and performance in terms of sustainable construction.Design/methodology/approachResearchers from an international group undertook a field study of a number of specimen round and square shape Hakka villages in December 2004. They discussed their preliminary findings with local academics regarding significant attributes for sustainable design principles, and summarized lessons by means of spatial and construction studies that inform contemporary urban designers' knowledge and practice of sustainability through indigenous architecture.FindingsThrough reinterpretation of Feng‐shui theory, various observations made were easily and naturally correlated to basic laws of sustainability. The biggest message that comes from Fujian round architecture is that a genuine practitioner of environmental and social sustainability relies on a simplicity of approach – a respect for nature.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is confined primarily to observations by a team of architects and engineers.Practical implicationsField study of vernacular architecture provides useful information and first‐hand data for researchers on rammed earth structures.Originality/valueThe study of rammed earth structures in remote areas of China, in both coastal and earthquake active zones, offers fresh insight into the integrity and ingenuity of early settlers in sustainable construction. The research provides preliminary findings regarding environmental and construction practice in age‐old Hakka round houses.
Adopting reflexive capability in international briefing
Authors: London Kerry , Chen Jessica , Bavinton Nathaniel 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to investigate the architectural firm's role in the briefing process on international projects and to identify the strategies of successful firms to overcome barriers.Design/methodology/approachA model is developed based on a critique of briefing models and international design management theory. The development of a reflexive capability model borrows cultural theory concepts of capital and reflexivity. The model is based on maximizing reflexive capability through the management of social, cultural and intellectual capital. Two case studies of architectural firms identify barriers during the briefing process and strategies to overcome these barriers. Data collection involved 16 interviews with senior management and design team staff.FindingsThere are various barriers and strategies used to achieve success in the briefing process. However, the management of a firm's capital is key to successful briefing on international projects and is a characteristic of reflexive practice. Reflexivity is based in a positive interpretation of change, and a continual responsiveness to change by participants in a system. The study provides useful information on management of the design and briefing stages of international projects.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by the number of case studies used and the difficulty of generalisability of findings.Practical implicationsThe research is that it provides useful information about how to approach constant change during briefing for the architects and clients who work on international projects.Originality/valueThe model is original and has value as it assists in explaining why some firms are more successful than others. The case studies provide new knowledge on international projects and the briefing process. The value of the paper is for the academic community, professionals in the built environment and clients involved in international projects.
A method for performance briefing at the project inception stage
Authors: Smith Jim , Love Peter E.D. , Heywood Chris 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to create a strategically positioned client performance brief with a clear and workable statement of the project requirements specified by a representative group of stakeholders.Design/methodology/approachThe application describes the relocation of a library with community facilities with a local council. This action research study of the project inception stages used the process of strategic needs analysis (SNA). This approach uses a workshop setting involving stakeholders in identifying a range of strategic options for the project problem. The development of a range of realistic options was aided by the use of a problem‐ structuring computer program, Situation Structuring. Individual workshop participants then expressed their preferences for the final options using a second software package (Strategizer) and after a short period for analysis the results were presented to a second workshop for discussion. The performance brief was then prepared to reflect stakeholders' and the workshop's preferences.FindingsThe process involved is described with the development and selection of organizational strategic options with the council stakeholders. The creation and identification of user performance indicators to guide the design development process is illustrated and a sample from the final performance brief is provided. The project is nearing completion and the local Council considers the process has been a success.Research limitations/implicationsThe process described has been developed over six studies in varying client environments in Australia. Further studies are needed in client organisations with a rolling program of capital works to test the robustness of the approach described.Practical implicationsThis work can assist the facilities manager to play an important role in the development of the initial performance‐based brief during the project inception stage that can assist clients and guide the design team.Originality/valueEstablishing client needs during the formative stages of a project (before design commences) is becoming an increasingly important role for the facilities manager. This work presents a description of a process that provides the means for clients and facilities managers to ensure that their strategic needs are met within the defined project.
The validity of predicted mean vote for air‐conditioned offices
Authors: Tse W.L. , So Albert T.P. , Chan W.L. , Mak Ida K.Y. 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo examine the role of predicted mean vote (PMV) in air‐conditioned environments by conducting a thermal comfort study.Design/methodology/approachA formal statistical approach was adopted for the credibility of the study. Thermal measurements and questionnaire filling were carried out in commercial offices to collect the required data. Statistical analysis on the collected data and logical reasoning were then employed to derive the conclusions.FindingsProvide an evidence to support PMV to be an appropriate thermal comfort index in air‐conditioned environments. Guarantee high productivity of occupants by using PMV in air‐conditioning control.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research work should be carried out to investigate any significant relationship between improvement in PMV and the profits gained by occupants inside an air‐conditioned space. With such relationship, it is possible to develop an intelligent air‐conditioning control to yield the most cost‐effective thermal environments for commercial offices.Practical implicationsAir‐conditioning engineers are highly recommended to employ PMV to assess the thermal comfort environment in air‐conditioned offices.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the importance aspect on choosing a thermal comfort index for comfort assessment in air‐conditioned offices. The index itself should not consider adaptive actions. Otherwise, the productivity of occupants would be severely deteriorated. It is well known that PMV is the thermal comfort index that can fulfill this requirement.
Classifying FM organisations using pattern recognition
Authors: Kaya Sezgin , Alexander Keith 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo demonstrate the unintended negative results of the current rationale for classifying client FM organisations and suggest a classification system that can systematically group FM organisations.Design/methodology/approachDevelops a classification model consisting of ten patterns built on the suggestions from the previous empirical studies for client FM organisations. It then applies these patterns onto 22 in‐house FM organisations in the UK using the pattern recognition's unsupervised clustering for measuring the similarities in the sample population. This results in a detailed examination of the applicability and the validity of the classification system.FindingsThree classes were found, two of which (Class 1 and 3) include mixed market sectors, while the other involves only healthcare FM organisations. The features of these classes are explained and the further use of the classification system is demonstrated and discussed.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample population including 22 client FM organisations is not an exhaustive list that can represent all FM organisations in general.Originality/valueThe suggested classification system adds value to the current market sector based classification by introducing ten patterns of FMO, used for measuring the similarities and dissimilarities of FM organisations.
Enhancement of classroom facilities of primary schools and its impact on learning behaviors of students
Authors: Leung Mei‐yung , Fung Ivan 
Published: January 2007

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of the enhanced school facilities and the impacts of this enhancement on the learning behaviors of studentsDesign/methodology/approachA pre‐ and post‐occupancy evaluation questionnaire was administered in 2003‐2004 to 750 primary students who had studied in both the old schoolhouses and the new Millennium Schoolhouses.FindingsThe results revealed that all of the FM components except teaching tools were improved in the millennium schools, while most of the learning behaviour (LB) components showed no changes. However, an interesting finding was that most of the improved FM components correlated to the enhanced LB of the students in the millennium schools.Research limitations/implicationsThere was only a three to four months period between the pre‐ and post‐occupancy evaluation in the study. To ensure the effectiveness of upgraded FM in millennium primary schools and to understand the long‐term impacts on the learning outcomes of students, a longitudinal post‐occupancy evaluation study in these three millennium schools is recommended.Practical implicationsIt is suggested that a longitudinal POE study be conducted in these three millennium schools in order to understand the long‐term impact of facilities management in millennium primary schools, especially the impact on the academic performance of students.Originality/valueArchitects and facilities managers should further discuss with teachers about how to encourage students in classrooms to be self‐disciplined, redesign the layout, and reconsider the teaching tools that today's primary students need.
Ward housekeepers in mental health environments
Authors: May Daryl , Suckley Louise 
Published: January 2007

PurposeIn the year 2000, the UK Government promoted the concept that hospital services be shaped around the needs of the patient to make their stay in hospital as comfortable as possible. In recognition of this, the Government advocated the introduction of a Ward Housekeeper role in at least 50 per cent of hospitals by 2004. This is a ward‐based non‐clinical role centred on cleaning, food service and maintenance to ensure that the basics of care are right for the patient. Much of the guidance for the ward housekeeper role has focussed on its development and implementation in an acute hospital setting. The aim of this research is to illustrate how the role has been adopted and implemented successfully in mental health environments and the subsequent impact for patient services.Design/methodology/approachFour case studies were undertaken in a variety of mental health settings, the principle method of data collection was qualitative semi‐structured interviews.FindingsCommon themes were identified from the case studies relating to experiences of developing and implementing the ward housekeeper role. This paper suggests models of best practice which relate to six main areas of: role, recruitment, induction, training, integration and management. It also demonstrates that the role has been successful and is highly valued by nursing staff.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was largely qualitative based and therefore the results do not lend themselves to be generalisable across the NHS.Originality/valueThe paper suggests how the ward housekeeper role should be adapted for mental health settings.
Identifying the initial target consumer for innovations: an integrative approach
Authors: Bowden Jana , Corkindale David 
Published: January 2007

PurposeTo assist marketing management in the identification and targeting of consumer innovators for novel products by selectively reviewing and integrating three separate streams of research, namely, trait theory, utility‐awareness theory and contemporary cognitive theory.Design/methodology/approachA range of traditional and contemporary research concerned with the identification of consumer innovators is selectively reviewed and critiqued to enhance marketing management's ability to identify and target the consumer innovator segment. This research, which is addressed under three main sections: personal characteristics, utility‐awareness and cognitive structures, is then integrated to provide management with a more comprehensive approach by which to identify and target consumer innovators. Particular emphasis is placed on the contribution of recent cognitive theories.FindingsThe trait dependent approaches in particular, are found to be of limited usefulness in that they identify consumer innovators only retrospectively after initial adoption, as opposed to operating in a predictive manner. It is argued that an approach based upon consumer utility‐awareness, and the more cognitively orientated analogical learning and embedded knowledge structure approaches can provide management with increased control over the process of new product adoption within a target population.Originality/valueThis paper provides management with a new insight into the identification of the consumer innovator by integrating three existing, but somewhat disparate theoretical approaches, and suggests amore comprehensive model for this task.