scholarly journals Assessing the smartness of buildings

Facilities ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 33 (9/10) ◽  
pp. 553-572 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Arditi ◽  
Giulio Mangano ◽  
Alberto De Marco
Keyword(s):  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Years Of Experience ◽  
Smart Buildings ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Smart Building ◽  
Convenient Tool ◽  
Energy Issue

Purpose – This study aims at capturing the perspectives of construction professionals into a classified taxonomy of the various characteristics of smart buildings and at developing an index able to define their level of smartness. Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire survey has been administrated to construction professionals in the service of designers, constructors and owners. Results have been analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis test and they have been used to develop a smartness index. Findings – Designers and owners are more focused on the energy issue than constructors. The energy captures the attention of practitioners with less years of experience, confirming that the awareness of the energy topic is rather recent. Originality/value – The main characteristics of smart buildings have been structured in domains and subdomains. Their importance has been rated by construction professional and a smartness index for smart building has been developed to provide with a convenient tool for evaluation and benchmarking.

scholarly journals What is a Smart Building?

2014 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 92-109 ◽  
Author(s):  
A.H. Buckman ◽  
M. Mayfield ◽  
Stephen B.M. Beck
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Advanced Technology ◽  
Building Sector ◽  
Smart Buildings ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Smart Building ◽  
Intelligent Buildings ◽  
The Future ◽  
Definition Of ◽  
And Control

Purpose – Within the building sector a lack of clarity in terminology does not help designers, clients or researchers. Non-domestic buildings have shown rapid increases in the use of advanced technology and control systems with varying drivers, many of which are labelled as intelligent. The term smart has been used interchangeably with intelligent without any clear distinction between the two. If the term Smart Buildings represented a separate, more advanced grouping, it would provide an opportunity to focus the future progress of non-domestic building development. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – Drawing upon academic and industrial literature and experience, this paper reviews the scope of Intelligent Buildings and the current available definitions of Smart Buildings to form a clear definition of both smart and Intelligent Buildings. Findings – These definitions define the border between the intelligent and the (more advanced) Smart Building. The upper bound of the Smart Building is defined by (the future development of) the predictive building. Originality/value – This work provides a clear focus which will allow the progression of the non-domestic building sector by providing guidance and aspiration, as well as providing a platform upon which a large amount of technical work can be based.

Bonding capability of Nigerian contracting firms

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (6) ◽  
pp. 707-720 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke
Keyword(s):  
Construction Projects ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Insurance Companies ◽  
State Governments ◽  
Legal Capacity ◽  
Years Of Experience ◽  
Past Performance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Financial Strength ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The ability of construction contractors to engage in construction bond agreement with guarantors depends on capital, experience, capacity and continuity. Using these criteria, the purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the bonding capacity of Nigerian contractors. Design/methodology/approach Factors required for bonding were examined based on a set of questions addressed to managers of contracting firms and personnel involved in issuing bonds and guarantees in commercial banks and insurance companies. The scorecard approach was employed to determine the bonding capability of the contractors. Findings Contractors’ financial strength and past performance on previous projects are the two important factors considered by guarantors in granting bond to contractors. However, the condition surrounding the bond, the legal capacity of the guarantor to issue bond and the identity of the guarantor are mostly considered by contractors in approaching a potential guarantor. Using the scorecard approach, about one-third of contractors have the necessary requirements to engage in construction bond agreement with guarantors. This ability of contractors is affected by years of experience of the firm but not by their location nor years of experience of their manager. Practical implications It is necessary for contracting firms to increase their capital base through merging, borrowing, etc., and also engage experienced professionals and workers in the execution of construction projects, as this will eventually improve their bonding ability. Social implications The study is limited to construction contractors registered with Ondo and Lagos State Governments and guarantors that are banks and insurance companies in Nigeria. Originality/value The paper specified various areas of concerns for Nigerian contracting firms in their bid to enhance their bonding ability. This will help them in overcoming various challenges and bottlenecks that may arise in securing bonds and guarantees from guarantors.

Do accountability and transparency promote community trust? Evidence from village government in Indonesia

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hafiez Sofyani ◽  
Suryo Pratolo ◽  
Zakiah Saleh
Keyword(s):  
Least Squares ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Research Data ◽  
Organisational Commitment ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Village Community ◽  
Community Trust ◽  
Village Government ◽  
Special Region

Purpose This study aims to examine the determinants of accountability and transparency of Indonesian village government(s), namely, the competence and organisational commitment of village government staff, and the consequences of accountability and transparency for village community trust. Design/methodology/approach This research was conducted in village governments in the province of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, covering four regencies: Sleman, Bantul, Kulon Progo and Gunung Kidul. A total of 128 village governments participated in this research. Data were collected by distributing a questionnaire survey, and a partial least squares technique was used to test the research hypotheses. Findings The study revealed that village government staff's competence and organisational commitment are positively associated with accountability. However, organisational commitment and accountability are not associated with transparency. In addition, it was discovered that transparency is positively associated with village community trust but accountability is not. Originality By testing the determinants and consequences of accountability and transparency following the ratification of the new village law regulating village government governance, this study is, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, pioneering research.

Dark tourism: tourist value and loyalty intentions

2019 ◽  
Vol 74 (4) ◽  
pp. 915-929 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pramod Sharma ◽  
Jogendra Kumar Nayak
Keyword(s):  
Indirect Effects ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Direct And Indirect Effects ◽  
Local Authorities ◽  
Dark Tourism ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Loyalty Intentions ◽  
Emotional Value ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the direct and indirect effects of tourists’ value on satisfaction and loyalty intentions in dark tourism.Design/methodology/approachThis research was conducted using the data collected through a questionnaire survey from 403 tourists visiting a dark tourism destination in India. Data were analyzed using CFA and SPSS macro (Process).FindingsThe findings confirmed that tourists’ values have significant direct and indirect effects on loyalty intentions via satisfaction in dark tourism. Among specific value, the strongest direct and indirect influence of emotional value in dark tourism is the unique finding of this research.Practical implicationsThis study would help the marketers, government, local authorities and relevant stakeholders operating in dark tourism to formulate policies and strategies to better serve this niche tourism.Originality/valueThis research is the first-known attempt to reveal the uniqueness of tourists’ perception of value in dark tourism. It could significantly add to the literature and practice of dark tourism.

Cheating behaviour among accounting students: some Malaysian evidence

2016 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-33 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suhaiza Ismail ◽  
Salwa Hana Yussof
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Standard Deviation ◽  
Academic Dishonesty ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Accounting Students ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Social ◽  
Males And Females

Purpose This study aims to examine the cheating behaviour among accounting students in terms of the extent of neutralization of cheating and the effectiveness of deterrents to cheating of cheaters and non-cheaters. It also aims to examine the differences in the cheating behaviour between males and females of cheaters and non-cheaters groups. Design/methodology/approach Using a questionnaire survey on academic dishonesty developed by Haines et al. (1986) which was administered to accounting students, 435 usable responses were obtained and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. In achieving the objectives, mean score, standard deviation and independent sample t-tests were performed. Findings The results on the extent of cheating neutralization revealed that cheaters have significantly greater excuses to cheat than the non-cheaters. In addition, males have greater neutralization for cheating than females. In terms of the effectiveness of the deterrent to cheating measures, there were significant differences between cheaters and non-cheaters on the effectiveness of two deterrents to cheating measures. The comparison between males and females reveals significant differences between the two genders for cheating neutralization as well as the three cheating deterrents for both cheaters and non-cheaters groups. Originality/value The present study does not only investigate the differences in the cheating behaviour between cheaters and non-cheaters in terms of neutralization and deterrents to cheating but also provides evidence on the cheating attitude based on gender.

Modelling the supplier selection process enablers using ISM and fuzzy MICMAC approach

2015 ◽  
Vol 30 (5) ◽  
pp. 536-551 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sudarshan Kumar ◽  
Shrikant Gorane ◽  
Ravi Kant
Keyword(s):  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Supplier Selection ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Selection Process ◽  
Model Development ◽  
Top Management ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Micmac Analysis ◽  
Fuzzy Micmac ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an approach to successful supplier selection process (SSP) by understanding the dynamics between SSP enablers (SSPEs), using interpretive structure modelling (ISM) methodology and find out driving and the dependence power of enablers, using fuzzy MICMAC (Matriced’ Impacts Croisés Appliquée á un Classement) analysis. Design/methodology/approach – The group of experts from industries and the academics were consulted and ISM is used to develop the contextual relationship among various SSPEs for each dimension of supplier selection. The results of the ISM are used as an input to the fuzzy MICMAC analysis to identify the driving and the dependence power of SSPEs. Findings – The research presents a hierarchy-based model and mutual relationships among SSPEs. The research shows that there is a group of SSPEs having a high driving power and low dependence, which requires maximum attention and is of strategic importance, while another group consists of those SSPEs that have high dependence and low driving power, which requires the resultant actions. Research limitations/implications – The weightage obtained for the ISM model development and fuzzy MICMAC are obtained through the judgment of academician and few industry experts. It is the only subjective judgment and any biasing by the person who is judging the SSPEs might influence the final result. A questionnaire survey can be conducted to catch the insight on these SSPEs from more organizations. Practical implications – This category provides a useful tool for top management to differentiate between independent and dependent SSPEs and their mutual relationships which would help them to focus on those key SSPEs that are most significant for effective supplier selection. Originality/value – Arrangement of SSPEs in a hierarchy, the categorization into the driver and dependent categories, and fuzzy MICMAC are an exclusive effort in the area of supplier selection.

Learning to build relationships for a better Australia

2017 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
pp. 4-24 ◽  
Author(s):  
Isaac Heard ◽  
Peter E.D. Love ◽  
Michael C.P. Sing ◽  
Veronica Goerke
Keyword(s):  
Cultural Differences ◽  
Indigenous Peoples ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Corporate Social ◽  
Resource Sector ◽  
Depth Interviews

Purpose Research examining the role of construction and involvement of resource organisations with indigenous reconciliation has been very limited in Australia. This paper aims to examine how a sample of organisations from Western Australia (WA) are engaging with indigenous reconciliation. Design/methodology/approach A questionnaire survey juxtaposed with in-depth interviews are used to explore how construction and resource companies (mining and energy) operating in WA have been planning to build better relationships with the indigenous community as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme. Findings The majority of construction and resource companies sampled embraced reconciliation as part of a contractual and legal requirement rather than part of their CSR. It was acknowledged that to effectively address the issues associated with reconciliation and indigenous engagement, there is a requirement for flexibility and adaption of existing protocols and processes to better suit the cultural differences that arise with interactions between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. Research limitations/implications The questionnaire survey was cross-sectional, and a limited number of in-depth interviews were undertaken. Respondents’ opinions were sought about their organisations’ reconciliation action plans, which have only been recently embraced by firms, and thus, views that were solicited should not be treated as being definitive. Originality/value Research examining the role of construction and involvement of resource organisations with indigenous reconciliation in the construction and resource sector has been limited. The findings of this study can provide a platform for examining and comparing how construction and resource organisations in different countries are embracing the process of reconciliation with their indigenous peoples.

Performance of Islamic microcredit in perspective of Maqasid Al-Shariah

Humanomics ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 31 (4) ◽  
pp. 374-384 ◽  
Author(s):  
Md. Mahmudul Alam ◽  
Salwana Hassan ◽  
Jamaliah Said
Keyword(s):  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Peninsular Malaysia ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Conventional System ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Enhancing Effect ◽  
Assessment Approach

Purpose – This study aims to examine the role of Islamic microcredit programs based on the achievement of Maqasid Al-Shariah. Past studies have evaluated the role of microcredit programs using the conventional assessment approach. However, the conventional system of socioeconomic role assessment cannot evaluate the performance of Islamic microcredit in terms of achieving the objectives of Shariah for the Islamic microcredit model. Design/methodology/approach – This paper uses primary data that were collected through a questionnaire survey distributed among 393 microcredit borrowers from Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM). The survey was conducted from July 2013 to December 2013 in the State of Sabah and in Peninsular Malaysia. This research also analyzes the socioeconomic roles and the achievement of microcredit and microenterprise from the perspective of the five principles of Al-daruriyyat from Maqasid Al-Shariah. Findings – Results indicate that the microcredit program of AIM has a positive and enhancing effect on the livelihood of clients. This effect is reflected in the assessment of their well-being, especially in the context of Maqasid Al-Shariah. Originality/value – This study examines the role of Islamic microcredit based on the achievement of Maqasid Al-Shariah.

Cost-driven motives to relocate manufacturing abroad among small- and medium-sized manufacturers

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jan Stentoft ◽  
Kent Adsbøll Wickstrøm ◽  
Anders Haug ◽  
Kristian Philipsen
Keyword(s):  
Empirical Analysis ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Industry 4.0 ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Perceived Barriers ◽  
Competitive Strategies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Cost ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advance the understanding of how Industry 4.0 related technologies affect the relocation of manufacturing abroad by small and medium-sized enterprises.Design/methodology/approachThis paper contains an empirical analysis of how Industry 4.0 related technologies affect the cost-driven relocation of manufacturing abroad based on 191 comprehensive and full responses to a questionnaire survey distributed in 2018 among small- and medium-sized Danish manufacturers.FindingsThis paper builds upon data, which reveals that companies' pursuit of cost-focused competitive strategies is positively correlated with relocating manufacturing abroad. However, the data also shows that the more Industry 4.0-ready decision-makers are, the less cost-focused strategy drives manufacturing abroad. Furthermore, perceived barriers to Industry 4.0 related technologies promote the cost-driven relocation of manufacturing abroad whereas perceived drivers decrease this phenomenon.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper is based on the answers given by a single respondent from each company and only on Danish respondents.Practical implicationsThe results indicate a need to invest resources to obtain a better knowledge of Industry 4.0 related technologies when used in processes involved in decisions about where to locate manufacturing.Originality/valueThis paper contains new, empirically founded information about how Industry 4.0 related technologies affect the cost-driven relocation of manufacturing abroad from the perspective of small- and medium-sized manufacturers.

Effect of using project management tools and techniques on SMEs performance in developing country context

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 453-466
Author(s):  
Seydou Sane
Keyword(s):  
Factor Analysis ◽  
Regression Analysis ◽  
Project Management ◽  
Questionnaire Survey ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Social Performance ◽  
Descriptive Statistics ◽  
Management Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Tools And Techniques

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to highlight, through a theoretical and empirical analysis, the expected effects of the use of tools and techniques of project management on the performance of SMEs in Africa. Design/methodology/approach The study uses data from a questionnaire survey of 157 SMEs in Senegal. The sample was chosen for convenience. Also, for data processing, the author mobilized descriptive statistics, factor analysis and regression analysis. Findings Regardless of size, SMEs use project management tools and techniques. Their use positively and significantly influences their business and social performance. Also, the size of the SME is positively and significantly associated with the use of tools and techniques; however, the results show that the older the SME, the less it uses such tools and techniques. Research limitations/implications This research provides an overview of the tools and techniques of project management used by SMEs and their contribution to performance, everything that can support them in choosing the appropriate tools and techniques to respond to their needs. A limitation of this research is that it does not mention the tools that contribute the most to the performance of the SMEs. Originality/value Contrary to the results of some previous research studies on SMEs in Africa, showing that the way in which SMEs operate in Africa is often characterized by less use of formal management tools, for cultural and institutional reasons, this research shows that these have a very appreciable degree of openness to project management tools and techniques.

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