Fuzzy model for assessing delays in Egyptian residential projects

2020 ◽  
Vol 25 (2) ◽  
pp. 225-246
Author(s):  
Tarek El-Rasas ◽  
Mohamed Marzouk
Keyword(s):  
Fuzzy Logic ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Fuzzy Model ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Index Method ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Residential Projects

Purpose Construction delays are a common problem in the Egyptian construction industry. Frequent delays in a project can lead to disputes and litigation. This paper aims to study and analyze the causes of construction delays. Design/methodology/approach This research identifies delay causes in residential projects in Egypt and analyzes these causes with the relative importance index method. The feedback of construction experts was obtained through interviews. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey was prepared. Fifty-six different delay causes were identified and categorized into eight categories based on a literature review and interviews with 36 experts from the construction industry who represent owners, consultants and contractors. Findings According to the highest values of the relative importance index, the top ten delay causes of residential projects in Egypt are determined. Statistical analysis is carried out using the analysis of variance method to test delay causes obtained from the survey, which revealed a good correlation between residential projects parties with respect to most of the delay causes. A fuzzy logic model using MATLAB is developed for determining the probability of delay of residential projects, and the model was tested in a real case study and was found to be satisfactory. Originality/value Delay causes in residential projects in Egypt were identified, and these causes were analyzed using the relative importance index method and fuzzy logic.

A benchmarking approach to the progress of green materials and systems’ use in the UAE construction industry

2016 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 315-327 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aly Elgayar ◽  
Salwa Mamoun Beheiry ◽  
Alaa Jabbar ◽  
Hamad Al Ansari
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
United Arab Emirates ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Construction Materials ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
Green Materials ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Regulatory Guidelines

Purpose Over the past decade, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) introduced several green regulatory guidelines, federal decrees, and a considerable number of environmentally friendly initiatives. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the top green materials and systems used currently in the UAE construction industry as per the new laws dictate as well as see if professionals are switching over to incorporate more green materials, systems, and/or designs. Design/methodology/approach The work involved reviewing internationally popular green materials and systems for construction, developing a questionnaire based on the literature review, surveying professionals in the seven UAE emirates, and ranking the findings based on the relative importance index. Findings Findings found the top used green materials and system in the UAE’s construction industry. As well as identified that there is a communication gap between the design and implementation phases that is possibly hindering the use of more green materials and systems. Originality/value This study sets a baseline to measure the UAE’s progress over the coming years in terms of integrating more green construction materials, systems, methodologies, and trends.

Investigating parameters affecting maintenance of heritage buildings in Egypt

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hoda Abdelrazik ◽  
Mohamed Marzouk
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Good Condition ◽  
Decision Making Process ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Index Method ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Heritage Buildings ◽  
Influencing Parameters

PurposeMaintenance of heritage buildings in Egypt is essential for extending their life and preserving them in a good condition for current use and future generations. The purpose of this paper aims to study the significant parameters to be taken into consideration in the decision-making process for maintenance of heritage buildings.Design/methodology/approachThis research identifies and analyzes the parameters affecting maintenance decision-making process using relative importance index method. Sixty-three parameters were collected from the literature and were categorized into six groups. The feedback of 15 experts who represent owners' representatives and consultants in the field of maintenance and preservation of heritage buildings was obtained through a questionnaire survey and analyses were conducted on the results.FindingsAccording to the highest values of the relative importance index method, the top 10 influencing parameters are determined. A comparison between feedback of the two groups of experts is conducted. Statistical analysis is carried out to test the parameters, revealing a strong correlation between structural and geotechnical groups of parameters.Originality/valueParameters affecting decision-making for maintenance of heritage buildings were identified, influencing parameters can be used to compare between heritage buildings in greater need of maintenance than others.

Fire risk of apparel manufacturing buildings in Sri Lanka

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
R.M.D.I.M. Rathnayake ◽  
P. Sridarran ◽  
M.D.T.E. Abeynayake
Keyword(s):  
Sri Lanka ◽  
Fire Safety ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Safety Management ◽  
Fire Risk ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Apparel Manufacturing ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Indirect Impacts

Purpose The total essence of apparel manufacturing buildings (AMBs) is highly influenced by fire incidents which are caused direct or indirect impacts to the present building structure or even in old age. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to evaluate the fire risk of AMBs in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was conducted to explore the local and international fire incidents in AMBs and identify 24 factors that contribute to fire risk of AMBs. A questionnaire survey with professionals who have the knowledge and experience related to past fire incidents and 18 interviews with professionals of fire safety management were carried out. Content analysis was involved to evaluate interviewees’ opinions and relative importance index was involved to rank identified factors that contribute to the fire risk of AMBs. Findings The results revealed that due to the business nature of AMBs hold a high risk for fire incidents. The study discovered 83.4% of high fire risk prevailing in AMBs in Sri Lanka. Faulty wiring, welding work with electrical sparks and accumulation of waste fabric, paper and other garbage recognized as the top three factors that contribute to the fire risk of AMBs in Sri Lanka. Finally, the strategies proposed to eliminate identified all 41 factors that contribute to the fire risk of AMBs in Sri Lanka. Originality/value The paper helps to guide facility owners regarding the fire safety of AMBs in Sri Lanka.

Perceived claim sources in the Nigerian construction industry

2014 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 281-295 ◽  
Author(s):  
AbdulLateef A. Olanrewaju ◽  
Paul J. Anavhe
Keyword(s):  
Empirical Study ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Project Delivery ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Construction Claims ◽  
Change Order ◽  
Delay Cost ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – With the increase in the cases of construction claims in Nigeria, many projects have remained uncompleted, while many of those completed receive poor client satisfaction. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how construction claims are managed. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 58 claim factors were identified and addressed to construction professionals through survey to indicate the extent at which the factors contributed to claims. A case study was conducted to illustrate claim management. Findings – In total, 37 factors were the major source of claims. Late payment, delayed approval of change order and delay cost were the extremely influential while the least were storage charges, loss of productivity, and costs of preparing claims. Evidences revealed that all stakeholders should play active roles to deliver “claim free” projects. Practical implications – The findings will be useful to practitioners in the effort to improve project delivery by providing some guidance on claim minimization. It is hoped that this study will encourage academics to conduct more research on this issue. Originality/value – There is no known conclusive empirical study on construction claim factors in Nigeria. In light of this, the findings offer greater opportunities for claim minimization/avoidance.

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.

From apprentice to construction manager and beyond: developing a talent pipeline

2009 ◽  
Vol 51 (3) ◽  
pp. 220-231 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eamonn McGettingan ◽  
Donal O'Neill
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Peer Support ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Integrated Approach ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Learning And Development ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Global Construction

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to outline the approach taken within Kentz Engineers and Constructors to develop electrical technicians and other apprentices on an international basis.Design/methodology/approachThe approach adopted is that of a case study which describes activities and processes within the college and the rationale behind them supported by appropriate material.FindingsAn integrated approach is needed to developing qualified tradespeople as junior supervisors involving work rotation, mentoring, learning and development workshops and peer support. Corporate will, together with systems and infrastructure, is needed to be successful organization‐wide.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is a case study that focuses on reflections from practice. Lessons learned and proposed will need to be tested in other organizations.Originality/valueThe paper provides original, tested solutions to problems that face the majority of organizations in the global construction industry and which will be familiar to all who manage the transition of apprentices into supervisory positions.

The need for and benefits of buildability analysis: Nigeria as a case study

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Innocent Chigozie Osuizugbo
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Construction Projects ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Poor Correlation ◽  
Construction Sector ◽  
Construction Process ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Analysis Programme

Purpose Buildability analysis has a potential of improving the outcomes of construction projects. However, the usage of buildability analysis is not well pronounced within the construction sector. This study aims to provide understanding of the concept of buildability analysis with the view to predicting the future stance for buildability analysis. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a survey research method. Questionnaires were administered to purposively selected group of construction professionals working in Nigeria. A total of 82 questionnaires were administered among the sampled respondents, out of which a total of 51 (62.2%) were adequately filled and returned. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings The results revealed inability of the designers and constructors to have a common upstanding of the entire construction process, fragmented nature of the construction industry and poor correlation between design and construction as the most essential needs for buildability analysis. On the benefits of buildability analysis, the results showed increase in efficiency, save wasteful efforts and quality improvement as the most significant ones. In addition, the results from the study revealed that there is a statistically significant difference in some of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis among the survey participants. Originality/value The study identified three future stances for buildability analysis to include building unity, efficient and effective construction and high competition. Framework for buildability analysis was developed aimed at providing guidance to professionals in achieving enhanced project production information. The findings provide in-depth insight of the needs for and benefits of buildability analysis that can inform professionals in the construction industry to adopt buildability analysis programme as a lasting solution to most design challenges and buildability problems confronting the sector.

scholarly journals A motivational framework for women to work in the construction industry: An Indonesian case study

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (4) ◽  
pp. 251-266
Author(s):  
Seng Hansen ◽  
◽  
Susy F. Rostiyanti ◽  
Angelia Nafthalie ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Theoretical Foundation ◽  
Construction Workers ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Motivating Factors ◽  
The Poor ◽  
Importance Index ◽  
Women's Participation ◽  
Questionnaire Surveys

The poor level of women’s participation in the construction industry has been a concern for many years. In fact, women represent less than 3% of the total workers in the Indonesian construction industry. On the other hand, the industry is experiencing a worker shortage causing it to innovatively attract construction workers by increasing women’s participation in the industry. Thus, this paper aims to understand the motivating factors for women to work in the construction industry. It adopts multi-sequence research techniques including integrative literature review, expert interviews and questionnaire surveys to collect data for the study. The data was then analysed using relative importance index and factor analysis. The findings were discussed and synthesised to develop a motivational framework for women to work in the construction industry. While this framework was developed based on the Indonesian context, it can serve as a theoretical foundation for further research regarding women’s participation in the construction industry.

Benchmarking agility assessment approaches: a case study

2015 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-17 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Vinodh ◽  
S Aravindraj
Keyword(s):  
Fuzzy Logic ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Agility Assessment ◽  
Fuzzy Logic Approach ◽  
Logic Approach ◽  
Manufacturing Organization ◽  
Case Organization ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to benchmark the assessment approaches of agility in a manufacturing organization. Design/methodology/approach – The criteria for agility assessment were identified comprehensively based on literature review. The agility assessment was done using Multi Grade Fuzzy and Fuzzy logic approaches, and the results were benchmarked. Findings – Based on Multi Grade Fuzzy approach, the agility index was found to be 6.6; Fuzzy logic approach reveals the agility index as (5.37, 6.91, 8.45) which indicated the case organization is agile. The gaps were identified from both the approaches and the results were corroborated. Research limitations/implications – In the present study, Multi Grade Fuzzy and Fuzzy logic approaches were only benchmarked. Also, the benchmarking exercise was done only in one manufacturing organization. Practical implications – The benchmarking study was conducted in a manufacturing organization. The practitioners’ views were gathered and they were involved in the study to substantiate the practical validity. Originality/value – The benchmarking study between two approaches for agility assessment was found to be original and adds value to the agility assessment field.

Let’s go cycling: an analysis of tourists’ experience on online user-generated content

2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 30-42 ◽  
Author(s):  
Weisheng Chiu ◽  
Ho Keat Leng
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
User Generated Content ◽  
Relative Importance ◽  
Satisfaction Level ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Tour Guides ◽  
Exploratory Case Study ◽  
Favorable Impression ◽  
The City

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore cycling tourists’ experience in Singapore using an exploratory case study. Design/methodology/approach Tourist’s spontaneous reviews (n=409) posted on TripAdvisor were collected and analyzed through Leximancer. Findings The software identified 31 concepts grouped into five dominant themes of tourists’ experiences. In order of relative importance, the themes were tour, bike, guide, experience, and cycling. It revealed that most tourists have a favorable impression of their cycling experience in Singapore. Originality/value The findings suggest cycling tours can provide tourists with pleasurable experiences. Tourists embark on cycling tours in Singapore to learn more about the city and enjoy new experiences. However, to meet tourists’ expectations, bicycles must be well-maintained and accessible. In addition, tour guides should be attentive and knowledgeable. These have a direct effect on tourists’ satisfaction level with cycling tours.

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