An areal openness model (AOM) for quantifying the “openness” of floor plans

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Zoraya Roldán Rockow ◽  
Brandon E. Ross
Keyword(s):  
Real World ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Floor Plan ◽  
Existing Buildings ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Alternative Plan ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Reasonable Approach ◽  
Floor Plans

PurposeThis paper aims to describe and demonstrate a quantitative areal openness model (AOM) for measuring the openness of floor plans. Creation of the model was motivated by the widely reported but rarely quantified link between openness and adaptability.Design/methodology/approachThe model calculates values for three indicators: openness score (OS), weighted OS (WOS) and openness potential (OP). OS measures the absence of obstructions (walls, chases, columns) that separate areas in a floor plan. WOS measures the number of obstructions while also accounting for the difficulty of removing them. OP measures the potential of a floor plan to become more open. Indicators were calculated for three demolished case study buildings and for three adapted buildings. The case study buildings were selected because openness – or lack thereof – contributed to the owners' decisions to demolish or adapt.FindingsOpenness indicators were consistent with the real-world outcomes (adaptation or demolition) of the case study buildings. This encouraging result suggests that the proposed model is a reasonable approach for comparing the openness of floor plans and evaluating them for possible adaptation or demolition.Originality/valueThe AOM is presented as a tool for facility managers to evaluate inventories of existing buildings, designers to compare alternative plan layouts and researchers to measure openness of case studies. It is intended to be sufficiently complex as to produce meaningful results, relatively simple to apply and readily modifiable to suit different situations. The model is the first to calculate floor plan openness within the context of adaptability.

Unlocking the value of HR to drive a change-ready culture

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 171-176
Author(s):  
Campbell Macpherson
Keyword(s):  
Real World ◽  
Culture Change ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
World Culture ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Large Organization ◽  
The Real ◽  
Personal Experiences

Purpose This paper aims to present a case study focused on developing a change-ready culture within a large organization. Design/methodology/approach This paper is based on personal experiences gleaned while driving an organization-wide culture change program throughout a major financial advisory firm. Findings This paper details over a dozen key lessons learned while transforming the HR department from a fragmented, ineffective, reclusive and disrespected department into one that was competent, knowledgeable, enabling and a leader of change. Originality/value Drawing on the real-world culture change intervention detailed here, including results and lessons learned, other organizations can apply similar approaches in their own organizations – hopefully to similar effect.

scholarly journals The unit train make-up scheme for loaded direction in the heavy haul railway

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 30-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yuqiang Wang ◽  
Yuguang Wei ◽  
Hua Shi ◽  
Xinyu Liu ◽  
Liyuan Feng ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Integer Programming ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Arrival Time ◽  
Programming Model ◽  
Nonlinear Integer Programming ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Heavy Haul ◽  
Heavy Haul Railway

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the unit train make-up scheme for loaded direction in the heavy haul railway. Design/methodology/approach A 0-1 nonlinear integer programming model with the aim of minimizing the idling period between actual train arrival time and expected train arrival time for all loaded unit trains are proposed. Findings The proposed model is applied into a case study based on Daqin heavy haul railway. Results show that the proposed model can offer operators an optimal unit train make-up scheme for loaded direction in heavy haul railway. Originality/value The proposed model can offer operators an optimal unit train make-up scheme for loaded direction in heavy haul railway.

scholarly journals A multi-objective evolutionary algorithm-based soft computing model for educational data mining

2017 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 106-123
Author(s):  
Choo Jun Tan ◽  
Ting Yee Lim ◽  
Chin Wei Bong ◽  
Teik Kooi Liew
Keyword(s):  
Student Achievement ◽  
Evolutionary Algorithm ◽  
Soft Computing ◽  
Real World ◽  
Classification Accuracy ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Computing Model ◽  
Model Based ◽  
Proposed Model

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a soft computing model based on multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA), namely, modified micro genetic algorithm (MmGA) coupled with a decision tree (DT)-based classifier, in classifying and optimising the students’ online interaction activities as classifier of student achievement. Subsequently, the results are transformed into useful information that may help educator in designing better learning instructions geared towards higher student achievement. Design/methodology/approach A soft computing model based on MOEA is proposed. It is tested on benchmark data pertaining to student activities and achievement obtained from the University of California at Irvine machine learning repository. Additional, a real-world case study in a distance learning institution, namely, Wawasan Open University in Malaysia has been conducted. The case study involves a total of 46 courses collected over 24 consecutive weeks with students across the entire regions in Malaysia and worldwide. Findings The proposed model obtains high classification accuracy rates at reduced number of features used. These results are transformed into useful information for the educational institution in our case study in an effort to improve student achievement. Whether benchmark or real-world case study, the proposed model successfully reduced the number features used by at least 48 per cent while achieving higher classification accuracy. Originality/value A soft computing model based on MOEA, namely, MmGA coupled with a DT-based classifier, in handling educational data is proposed.

Revising the Kano model for designing an employee compensation system

2019 ◽  
Vol 32 (1) ◽  
pp. 78-91
Author(s):  
Hossein Vaez Shahrestani ◽  
Arash Shahin ◽  
Hadi Teimouri ◽  
Ali Shaemi Barzoki
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Compensation System ◽  
Kano Model ◽  
Employee Compensation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
One Dimensional ◽  
Compensation Systems ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
The One

Purpose The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to revise the Kano model with a focus on one-dimensional attributes; and second, to use the revised model for categorizing and prioritizing various employee compensation strategies. Design/methodology/approach The Kano evaluation table has been revised and the one-dimensional attribute has been further extended to three categories of OO, OM and OA. In the next step, the literature review-based identified strategies have been categorized and prioritized according to the developed Kano model. Consequently, an employee compensation system has been proposed to a process-based manufacturing company as a case study. Findings Findings indicated that out of the 44 employee compensation strategies, typically 6 were must-be, 13 were one-dimensional, 18 were attractive and 7 were indifferent. Also, the results of the revised Kano model indicated that typically out of the 13 one-dimensional strategies, 7 were one-dimensional tending toward must-be (OM); and 6 were one-dimensional tending toward attractive (OA). Research limitations/implications The case study was limited to one company. The validity of the proposed model can be further studied in a larger population. This study provides managers with a more accurate instrument of decision making in selecting more differentiated employee compensation strategies, which, in turn, might lead to more employee satisfaction. Originality/value Theoretically, this study is different from existing studies, since almost none of the previous studies extended the Kano evaluation table for one-dimensional attributes. Practically, this study is another evidence of the application of the Kano model in the field of human resource management and in particular contributes to the design of employee compensation systems.

A fuzzy-logic model for benchmarking concrete roof maintenance

Facilities ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 39 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 568-583
Author(s):  
Sanduni Peiris ◽  
Nayanthara De Silva
Keyword(s):  
Fuzzy Logic ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Concrete Structures ◽  
Logic Model ◽  
Maintenance Strategies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Decision Making Tool

Purpose Concrete structures undergo early and fast deterioration, which causes defects such as cracks, water leaks and delamination, resulting from a lack of or inefficient maintenance practices. To improve this behaviour, this paper aims to develop a maintenance strategy benchmarking model for concrete structures. Design/methodology/approach Fuzzy logic toolbox on MATLAB R2018a was used to develop the proposed model and it was applied to two cases. A comprehensive literature search was done to review common concrete defects, their impact on the performance and functionality of the structure, effectiveness of maintenance strategies and previous maintenance benchmarking models. The literature findings were further validated through expert interviews which have been incorporated in the model. Findings Case study results show that preventive maintenance (PM), predictive maintenance (PdM) and corrective maintenance (CM) strategies are required more or less in similar combinations for maintenance of concrete roof structures. The best combination for case 1 is 36.42% PM, 35.40% PdM and 28.18% CM, and for case 2 is 35.93% PM, 35.08% PdM and 28.99% CM. According to suitability, they can be ranked as PM > PdM > CM. Originality/value This model will contribute as a comprehensive decision-making tool for building/facility managers. The findings further carry a strong message to those who practice only CM in their buildings.

Case study: Why Paysend is moving to remote-first working

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Alex Nicolaus
Keyword(s):  
Real World ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Work Practices ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Set Up

Purpose With the COVID-19 pandemic causing businesses to shake up social and work practices, the purpose of this paper is to explore why global fintech Paysend has decided to shift toward a new norm of remote-first working. Design/methodology/approach A real-world case study. Findings Although some organizations, especially larger ones, are urging employees to return to a daily office commute, a remote first set up is definitely here to stay. Originality/value Paysend was one of the very first fintechs that moved to a fully remote model at the start of the pandemic in early March 2020.

Metadata-based data quality assessment

2016 ◽  
Vol 46 (2) ◽  
pp. 232-250 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mustafa Aljumaili ◽  
Ramin Karim ◽  
Phillip Tretten
Keyword(s):  
Content Analysis ◽  
Data Quality ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Assessment Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Data Quality Assessment ◽  
Proposed Model ◽  
Metadata Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop data quality (DQ) assessment model based on content analysis and metadata analysis. Design/methodology/approach A literature review of DQ assessment models has been conducted. A study of DQ key performances (KPIs) has been done. Finally, the proposed model has been developed and applied in a case study. Findings The results of this study shows that the metadata data have important information about DQ in a database and can be used to assess DQ to provide decision support for decision makers. Originality/value There is a lot of DQ assessment in the literature; however, metadata are not considered in these models. The model developed in this study is based on metadata in addition to the content analysis, to find a quantitative DQ assessment.

Assessing determinants of sustainable upgrade of existing buildings

2019 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 270-292
Author(s):  
John Dadzie ◽  
Goran Runeson ◽  
Grace Ding
Keyword(s):  
Energy Consumption ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Existing Buildings ◽  
Building Stock ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Existing Building ◽  
Sustainable Technologies ◽  
Energy Consumption Patterns ◽  
Main Components

Purpose Estimates show that close to 90% of the buildings we will need in 2050 are already built and occupied. The increase in the existing building stock has affected energy consumption thereby negatively impacting the environment. The purpose of this paper is to assess determinants of sustainable upgrade of existing buildings through the adoption and application of sustainable technologies. The study also ranks sustainable technologies adopted by the professionals who participated in the survey with an in-built case study. Design/methodology/approach As part of the overall methodology, a detailed literature review on the nature and characteristics of sustainable upgrade and the sustainable technologies adopted was undertaken. A survey questionnaire with an in-built case study was designed to examine all the sustainable technologies adopted to improve energy consumption in Australia. The survey was administered to sustainability consultants, architects, quantity surveyors, facility managers and engineers in Australia. Findings The results show a total of 24 technologies which are mostly adopted to improve energy consumption in existing buildings. A factor analysis shows the main components as: lighting and automation, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HAVC) systems and equipment, envelope, renewable energy and passive technologies. Originality/value The findings bridge the gap in the literature on the adoption and application of sustainable technologies to upgrade existing buildings. The technologies can be adopted to reduce the excessive energy consumption patterns in existing buildings.

In liminality: interdisciplinary teams learning through challenges

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sigrid Westad Brandshaug ◽  
Ela Sjølie
Keyword(s):  
Real World ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Working Life ◽  
Interdisciplinary Teams ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Student Teams ◽  
Student Team ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Real World Problems

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of liminality as a theoretical lens to explore and discuss how challenges, accompanied by frustrations and confusion, can enable significant learning in a teamwork setting. Student team narratives on how they handle challenges they face working to solve real-world problems are used as the basis for the discussion.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case study using student narratives from an interdisciplinary master course at a Norwegian university.FindingsWe argue that the concept of liminality can support teachers and student teams to understand and handle challenges in ways that enable significant learning and innovation. Practical implications for teachers and facilitators are provided at the end of the paper.Originality/valueThis paper offers new lenses to understand the team- and learning processes in courses where students work with real-world problems. If the teams are able to stay open in the liminality phase it enables significant learning and innovation. This capacity is valuable in a time where teams face complexity and uncertainty is becoming more of a standard than an exception, both in higher education and in working life.

Towards a taxonomy of intergenerational knowledge transfer practices

2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 81-91
Author(s):  
Kerstin Kuyken ◽  
Mehran Ebrahimi ◽  
Anne-Laure Saives
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Transfer ◽  
Comparative Study ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Qualitative Case Study ◽  
High Tech ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Case Study Design ◽  
Younger Workers ◽  
Intergenerational Knowledge

Purpose This paper aims to develop a better understanding of intergenerational knowledge transfer (IKT) practices by adopting a context-related and comparative perspective. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study design involving 83 interviews and non-participative observation in German and Quebec organizations has been chosen. Findings Two distinctive archetypes of IKT emerge from both national contexts: “we-individualizing” (Germany) and “I-connecting” (Quebec), leading to an eightfold taxonomy of IKT practices. Research limitations/implications This research is limited to young and senior workers and to high-tech sectors. Originality/value Comparative and inductive study of IKT, adaptation of IKT practices to national contexts, retaining younger workers. This inductive and comparative study allows a better adaptation of IKT practices to national contexts and therefore a better retention of younger workers.

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