Modeling the performance of healthcare construction projects

2019 ◽  
Vol 26 (9) ◽  
pp. 2023-2039
Author(s):  
Karim A. Iskandar ◽  
Awad S. Hanna ◽  
Wafik Lotfallah
Keyword(s):  
Mathematical Model ◽  
Performance Metrics ◽  
Project Performance ◽  
The Body ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Healthcare Sector ◽  
High Tech ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Performance Metric

Purpose Healthcare-sector projects are some of the most complex in modern practice due to their reliance on high-tech components and the level of precision they must maintain. Existing literature in healthcare performance specifically is scarce, but there is a recent increasing trend in both healthcare construction and a corresponding trend in related literature. No previously existing study has derived weights (relative importance) of performance metric in an objective, data-based manner. The purpose of this paper is to present a newly developed mathematical model that derives these weights, free of subjectivity that is common in other literature. Design/methodology/approach This paper’s model considers 17 exceptional projects and 19 average projects, and reveals the weights (or relative importance) of ten performance metrics by comparing how projects relate to one another in terms of each metric individually. It solves an eigenvalue problem that maximizes the difference between average and exceptional project performances. Findings The most significant weight, i.e. the performance metric which has the greatest impact on healthcare project performance, was request for information per million dollars with a weight of 16.07 percent. Other highly weighted metrics included construction speed and schedule growth at 13.08 and 12.23 percent, respectively. Rework was the least significant metric at 3.61 percent, but not all metrics of quality had low ratings. Deficiency issues per million dollars was weighted at 11.61 percent, for example. All weights derived by the model in this paper were validated statistically to ensure their applicability as comparison and assessment tools. Originality/value There is no widely accepted measure of project performance specific to healthcare construction. This study’s contribution to the body of knowledge is its mathematical model which is a landmark effort to develop a single, objective, unified project performance index for healthcare construction. Furthermore, this unified score presents a user-friendly avenue for contractors to standardize their productivity tracking – a missing piece in the practices of many contractors.

Significant risk factors associated with facilities management (FM) outsourcing

2015 ◽  
Vol 22 (6) ◽  
pp. 771-796 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dubem I. Ikediashi ◽  
Stephen O. Ogunlana
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Significant Risk ◽  
The Body ◽  
Healthcare Sector ◽  
Public Healthcare ◽  
Facilities Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Healthcare Facilities ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Body Of Knowledge

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to extend the body of knowledge on healthcare facilities management (FM) by investigating the risks associated with outsourcing of FM services in hospitals. Design/methodology/approach – The paper relied on two strands of methodology common with pragmatic research. Questionnaire survey (QS) used data from 208 respondents representing ten hospitals while three out of the ten hospitals involved in the QS were selected based on their willingness to enter the case study (CS) interview. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics for QS and using narrative techniques by discussing themes, sub-themes for the CS. Findings – Findings established 24 out of the 35 risk factors as critical, four factors as somehow critical, and five factors as not critical. Besides, nine risk factors were found to be significantly loaded on the five risk categories. The rank analysis also revealed that the top five critical risk factors are: inexperience and lack of requisite skills; possibility of fraud by vendor; financial failure of chosen vendor; vendor opportunism; and fall in morale of employees. Originality/value – The study provides an unambiguous contribution to exiting body of knowledge on outsourcing risks as it relates to healthcare FM. It reinforces the theory that risks exist in any form of relationship but developed a distinct body of factors associated with outsourcing of FM services particularly from the context of Nigeria’s public healthcare sector.

Entrepreneurial orientation and burnout among healthcare professionals

2020 ◽  
Vol 34 (1) ◽  
pp. 16-22
Author(s):  
Claudine Kearney ◽  
Padraic Dunne ◽  
William J. Wales
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Care ◽  
Entrepreneurial Orientation ◽  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Focal Point ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Organizational Outcomes ◽  
Healthcare Sector ◽  
High Tech ◽  
Content Type

PurposeAmong healthcare professionals, burnout is one of the key challenges affecting organizational outcomes, employee productivity and quality of care. The knowledge of burnout and its root causes and primary contributors continues to grow yet remains limited. In many environments, an entrepreneurial orientation (EO) has been shown to dramatically improve organizational outcomes and performance. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate critical research areas at the intersection of organizational EO and employee burnout within the healthcare sector.Design/methodology/approachA conceptual model which considers how EO has the potential to provide an operational context that may negate, lessen or delay the negative effects of burnout among healthcare professionals, is advanced as a useful focal point to foster research exploring connections between organizational orientation and employee well-being.FindingsInsights into how an opportunity-embracing EO characteristic of high-tech firms may shape how stress is experienced and address burnout when applied to healthcare organizations. A decrease in burnout stands to improve quality of care as well as the satisfaction of staff and patients alike, including a greater sense of autonomy, engagement, motivation and passion.Originality/valueThis research agenda proposes new insights and the need for additional research into how the manifestation of organizational EO may contribute to the field of medicine, influence burnout and enhance the well-being among healthcare professionals.

3PL selection criteria in integrated circuit manufacturing industry in Taiwan

2016 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 103-124 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bang-Ning Hwang ◽  
Tsai-Ti Chen ◽  
James T. Lin
Keyword(s):  
Integrated Circuit ◽  
Cost Reduction ◽  
Selection Criteria ◽  
Manufacturing Industry ◽  
Market Competition ◽  
Value Added ◽  
The Body ◽  
High Tech ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Ic Manufacturing

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to identify the key third-party logistics (3PL) selection criteria for the integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing industry in Taiwan. The IC manufacturing industry seeks global sourcing, and is facing increasing pressure due to fierce market competition. More than a cost reduction strategy, 3PL is a strategic tool for IC manufacturers to gain a competitive advantage in a global supply chain complex. Design/methodology/approach – The triangulation method that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches was used in the study. The qualitative approach of focus group discussions was adopted to establish the decision framework, and the quantitative approach of the analytic hierarchy process was used to explore the relative importance of the 3PL selection criteria. Finally, an in-depth proof-by-example interview was undertaken to provide an insightful interpretation of the research results. Findings – The research shows that performance is the most important criterion group, followed by cost, service, quality assurance, intangible and information technology. At the detailed sub-criteria level, document accuracy, problem-solving capability, continuous cost reduction, value-added services and associated cost control capability are the top five criteria. Research limitations/implications – This study focused on the IC manufacturing sector in Taiwan. Multi-country and multi-industry studies are recommended to help further validate and generalise the research findings. Originality/value – Due to its application of triangulation, this study is a pioneering work on the 3PL selection criteria in a high-tech manufacturing industry. Furthermore, the value of this research is that it enhances the body of knowledge of 3PL selection by identifying certain emerging selection criteria, it could serve as a guideline for IC manufacturers in planning logistics outsourcing actions and it could significantly contribute to the efforts of 3PL providers in evaluating whether they comply with customer needs and adhere to core competency development.

Exploring the integration between Lean and the Theory of Constraints in Operations Management

2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 718-742 ◽  
Author(s):  
Diego Augusto de Jesus Pacheco ◽  
Isaac Pergher ◽  
José Antônio Valle Antunes Junior ◽  
Guilherme Luís Roehe Vaccaro
Keyword(s):  
Operations Management ◽  
Production System ◽  
Performance Metrics ◽  
Production Systems ◽  
The Body ◽  
System Structure ◽  
Theory Of Constraints ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Production Environment ◽  
Content Type

Purpose The purpose of this study is to compare different models integrating the TOC and Lean approaches. Design/methodology/approach The models of reference were identified through a comprehensive literature review. A qualitative and comparative analysis was carried out by pointing out the strengths, weaknesses and gaps of models integrating the TOC and Lean based on the production system requirements. Findings The findings indicate that these models can be improved by introducing aspects related to the system structure such as main key performance indicators, type of shop layout and performance metrics to evaluate the improvements implemented in the production system. The results provided evidence that the TOC and Lean are complementary approaches, and the individual gaps of each approach seem to be, in the most part, offset by the virtues of the other. Practical implications This study enables decision makers and industrial managers to evaluate the practices adopted in the production environment, as well as the use of the different set of continuous improvement practices. This article also minimizes the literature gap regarding whether and how integrated Lean and TOC approach can be used in the firms. Originality/value This study contributes to the body of literature on Lean by comparing three different models integrating Lean and the TOC. Furthermore, a research agenda is suggested for future research aimed at developing new models integrating both approaches, aiming to increase the competitiveness of the production systems.

The effects of cost-based contractor selection on construction project performance

2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (3) ◽  
pp. 235-251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Olugbenga Jide Olaniran
Keyword(s):  
Construction Projects ◽  
Construction Project ◽  
Poor Performance ◽  
Project Performance ◽  
The Body ◽  
Contractor Selection ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Body Of Knowledge ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – This paper aims to present the outcome of a study conducted on the impact that cost-based contractor selection (CBCS) might have on construction project performance. Several criteria are normally used to select construction contractors, competitiveness of the quoted prices of the prospective contractors is one such important criterion. However, choosing contractors solely on the basis of the quoted price may cause poor performance in the construction project. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative approach was adopted. A critical review of the literature was conducted to develop 50 survey questions relating to the problems that CBCS might have on construction project performance. Findings – Analysis of close data obtained from the survey of construction experts showed the nature of project performance problems associated with the CBCS to be project time delays and non-compliance with construction standards. The major reason they occurred was found to be the reduced profit margin for contractors. Research limitations/implications – The research sample size is small and restricted to construction professionals in Brunei. Practical implications – The study findings present updated information to construction professionals about the inherent impacts of choosing contractors based on cost. Furthermore, this study enhances the approach of selecting contractors within the construction industry. Originality/value – The study made strong and unique arguments about the problems associated with choosing construction contractors based on cost. This study contributes to the body of knowledge relevant to the management of construction projects.

Cost and time implications of abandoned project resuscitation

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 185-201 ◽  
Author(s):  
Oluwaseyi Olalekan Alao ◽  
Godwin Onajite Jagboro ◽  
Akintayo Opawole
Keyword(s):  
Performance Metrics ◽  
The Body ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Educational Institutions ◽  
Regression Equations ◽  
Infrastructure Development ◽  
Cost Overrun ◽  
Building Projects ◽  
Relative Significance ◽  
Content Type

Purpose This paper aims to determine the effect of the period of abandonment on the final cost and duration of resuscitated tertiary educational building projects as a basis for enhancing the performance metrics of the projects and improving the availability of facilities in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach A structured questionnaire was administered on 47 professionals involved in the physical development of construction projects in Osun State public tertiary educational institutions to provide primary data for the study. Secondary data relating to initial and final costs, initial and final completion dates, dates of abandonment, period of abandonment, date of re-award, etc. were obtained from selected resuscitated projects. Data were analyzed using relative significance index and regression analysis. Findings The most significant effects of project abandonment were found to be disappointment of populace and over-stretching of existing facilities. The study showed a directly proportional and an exponential effect of period of abandonment on percentage cost overrun of resuscitated projects, which were represented by yc = −329.755 + 19.545x and yc = 6.1662e0.0506x, respectively. A linear relationship between period of abandonment and percentage time overrun was represented by yt = 0.467 + 0.816x. Research limitations/implications The fact that the regression equations could not be validated because of paucity of data was identified as a limitation of this study. Practical implications This study adds to the body of knowledge on abandonment of building projects from a quantitative perspective. Findings have implications for guiding long-term infrastructure development plans in public tertiary educational institutions. Originality/value Maximum threshold at which abandoned projects may be resuscitated at an economic cost was established as 16 months. Findings further suggest that the economy of new construction would outweigh resuscitation of abandoned projects beyond this period.

Investigation into the feasibility of inductively coupled antenna for use in smart clothing

2014 ◽  
Vol 26 (1) ◽  
pp. 25-37 ◽  
Author(s):  
Minyoung Suh ◽  
Katherine E. Carroll ◽  
Edward Grant ◽  
William Oxenham
Keyword(s):  
Performance Metrics ◽  
Systems Approach ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Relative Displacement ◽  
The Body ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Inductively Coupled ◽  
Smart Clothing ◽  
Antenna Performance ◽  
The Impact

Purpose – This research investigated the feasibility of using an inductively coupled antenna as the basis of applying a systems approach to smart clothing. In order to simulate real-life situations, the impact of the distortions and relative displacement of different fabric layers (with affixed antennas) on the signal quality was assessed. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – A spiral antenna was printed on different fabric substrates. Obstructive conditions of the inductively coupled fabric layers were investigated to find out how much influence these conditions had on transmission performance. Reflected signals and transmitted signals were observed, while fabric antennas were subjected to displacement (distance and dislocation) or deformation (stretching and bending). The threshold of physical obstacles was estimated based on statistical analyses. Findings – The limits of physical conditions that enable proper wireless transmission were estimated up to ∼2 cm for both distance and dislocation, and ∼0.24 K for bending deformation. The antenna performance remained within an acceptable level of 20 percent transmission up to 10 percent fabric stretch. Based on well-established performance metrics used in clothing environment on the body, which employs 2-5 cm of ease, the results imply that the inductively coupled antennas may be suitable for use in smart clothing. Originality/value – This research demonstrates that the use of inductively coupled antennas on multiple clothing layers could offer the basis of a new “wireless” system approach to smart clothing. This would not only result in performance benefits, but would also significantly improve the aesthetics of smart clothing which should result in new markets for such products.

Performance metrics analysis for aircraft maintenance process control

2014 ◽  
Vol 20 (2) ◽  
pp. 122-134 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kevin M. Taaffe ◽  
Robert William Allen ◽  
Lindsey Grigg
Keyword(s):  
Performance Metrics ◽  
Performance Measurements ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Root Cause ◽  
Continuous Improvement Process ◽  
Performance Metric ◽  
The Right ◽  
The Cost ◽  
And Behavior ◽  
Maintenance Process

Purpose – Performance measurements or metrics are that which measure a company's performance and behavior, and are used to help an organization achieve and maintain success. Without the use of performance metrics, it is difficult to know whether or not the firm is meeting requirements or making desired improvements. During the course of this study with Lockheed Martin, the research team was tasked with determining the effectiveness of the site's existing performance metrics that are used to help an organization achieve and maintain success. Without the use of performance metrics, it is difficult to know whether or not the firm is meeting requirements or making desired improvements. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – Research indicates that there are five key elements that influence the success of a performance metric. A standardized method of determining whether or not a metric has the right mix of these elements was created in the form of a metrics scorecard. Findings – The scorecard survey was successful in revealing good metric use, as well as problematic metrics. In the quality department, the Document Rejects metric has been reworked and is no longer within the executive's metric deck. It was also recommended to add root cause analysis, and to quantify and track the cost of non-conformance and the overall cost of quality. In total, the number of site wide metrics has decreased from 75 to 50 metrics. The 50 remaining metrics are undergoing a continuous improvement process in conjunction with the use of the metric scorecard tool developed in this research. Research limitations/implications – The metrics scorecard should be used site-wide for an assessment of all metrics. The focus of this paper is on the metrics within the quality department. Practical implications – Putting a quick and efficient metrics assessment technique in place was critical. With the leadership and participation of Lockheed Martin, this goal was accomplished. Originality/value – This paper presents the process of metrics evaluation and the issues that were encountered during the process, including insights that would not have been easily documented without this mechanism. Lockheed Martin Company has used results from this research. Other industries could also apply the methods proposed here.

An exploratory study of factors affecting undergraduate employability

2013 ◽  
Vol 55 (7) ◽  
pp. 681-704 ◽  
Author(s):  
David J. Finch ◽  
Leah K. Hamilton ◽  
Riley Baldwin ◽  
Mark Zehner
Keyword(s):  
Soft Skills ◽  
The Body ◽  
University Graduates ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Empirical Examination ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Qualitative And Quantitative ◽  
New Graduates ◽  
Graduate Employability ◽  
New Graduate

PurposeThe current study was conducted to increase our understanding of factors that influence the employability of university graduates. Through the use of both qualitative and quantitative approaches, the paper explores the relative importance of 17 factors that influence new graduate employability.Design/methodology/approachAn extensive review of the existing literature was used to identify 17 factors that affect new graduate employability. A two‐phase, mixed‐methods study was conducted to examine: Phase One, whether these 17 factors could be combined into five categories; and Phase Two, the relative importance that employers place on these factors. Phase One involved interviewing 30 employers, and Phase Two consisted of an empirical examination with an additional 115 employers.FindingsResults from both the qualitative and quantitative phases of the current study demonstrated that 17 employability factors can be clustered into five higher‐order composite categories. In addition, findings illustrate that, when hiring new graduates, employers place the highest importance on soft‐skills and the lowest importance on academic reputation.Research limitations/implicationsThe sectors in which employers operated were not completely representative of their geographical region.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that, in order to increase new graduates’ employability, university programmes and courses should focus on learning outcomes linked to the development of soft‐skills. In addition, when applying for jobs, university graduates should highlight their soft‐skills and problem‐solving skills.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the body of knowledge on the employability of university graduates by empirically examining the relative importance of five categories of employability factors that recruiters evaluate when selecting new graduates.

Does size of construction firms matter? Impact of project-factors and organization-factors on project performance

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gopal Sekar ◽  
Murali Sambasivan ◽  
Kuperan Viswanathan
Keyword(s):  
Performance Indicators ◽  
Oil And Gas ◽  
Project Performance ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
The Body ◽  
Relative Impact ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Construction Firms ◽  
Medium Enterprise ◽  
The Impact

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyze and compare the impact of project-factors and organization-factors on five indicators of project performance for small and medium enterprise (SME) and large construction contracting firms that are fully responsible for the successful completion of the projects. The five performance indicators are time, cost, safety, quality and financial.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey was conducted to solicit responses from project managers/directors from 342 construction firms in Malaysia. The construction firms included in this study came from various sectors: civil, building and infrastructure; oil and gas; marine and multidiscipline. Hierarchical multiple-regression was used to analyze the data.FindingsThe salient findings are as follows: (1) impacts of project-factors and organization-factors on performance indicators are different for SMEs and large construction firms and (2) relative impact of organization-factors on performance is much higher than the project-factors.Originality/valueAnalyzing the relative impact of project- and organization-factors on the performance of SMEs and large construction firms can significantly enhance the body of knowledge about performance levels and boost best practices in this respect related to construction industry.

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