TASK-TECHNOLOGY FIT IN THE ADOPTION OF LINEAR SCHEDULING METHOD

2016 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Juneseok Yang ◽  
David Arditi
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Target Population ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Software Packages ◽  
Linear Scheduling ◽  
Management Association ◽  
Scheduling Method ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Task Technology Fit ◽  
Resource Data

Although the general consensus is that linear scheduling methods (LSMs) are quite powerful, their use in construction has been very limited. The linkage between the characteristics of scheduling methods and the requirements of the tasks performed by schedulers has been an on-going concern in the construction industry. This study proposes a “task-technology fit” model to understand why LSMs are not being used as extensively as expected. The model aims to determine whether the characteristics of LSM (technology) satisfy the duties and obligations of construction schedulers (tasks). By scrutinizing the task-technology fit in LSM applications, deficiencies can be detected which hinder the wider use of these methods in the industry. A questionnaire survey was administered to measure task-technology fit in LSM applications. The target population included schedulers, project managers, construction managers, and other professionals listed in the directory of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). The findings indicate that LSM is effective in repetitive projects and is able to provide a smooth and efficient flow of resources by adjusting activities’ rate of production. In addition, research findings point out that LSM effectively shows activity sequences as well as progress. However, the findings also reveal that LSM is not applicable when reliable resource data are not available. It should also be noted that very few software packages that perform LSM scheduling are commercially available on the market.

STAFF COMPETENCY ISSUES IN LINEAR SCHEDULING APPLICATIONS

2016 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Juneseok Yang ◽  
David Arditi
Keyword(s):  
Project Managers ◽  
Construction Scheduling ◽  
Linear Scheduling ◽  
Management Association ◽  
Project Organizations ◽  
Scheduling Method ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Scheduling Tool ◽  
And Function ◽  
Repetitive Activities

Linear scheduling method (LSM) is a scheduling method that is based on achieving a continuous flow of resources as well as precedence requirements. Although LSMs have recognized strengths in dealing with resource-intensive projects that are composed of repetitive activities, LSMs are not used extensively. This study proposes a staff-technology fit model that aims to measure the extent to which the features provided by LSM match scheduling staff experience, know-how and capabilities. The aim is to understand why LSM is not used as extensively as expected in construction scheduling. A questionnaire survey was administered to professionals listed in the directory of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) to measure staffing-technology fit in LSM applications. Research findings indicate that LSM applications satisfy user requirements in construction scheduling by (1) providing information that is useful to project participants depending on their position and function in the project organizations, (2) presenting graphics that are easy to understand, and (3) providing ease in communication. Research findings also reveal that LSM is not only a scheduling tool but also a control tool. However, the findings also point out that (1) LSM schedules require much time and effort to produce, (2) there are only very few commercially available software programs capable of running LSM schedules, and (3) there are not enough training opportunities for project managers and their staff to learn how to use LSM.

scholarly journals PEMODELAN PENJADWALAN LINIER DENGAN ALOKASI SUMBER DAYA MANUSIA PADA PROYEK PERUMAHAN

2018 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 41-47
Author(s):  
HEDWIG ANGDIARTO TAN ◽  
Ratna Alifen
Keyword(s):  
Human Resources ◽  
Idle Time ◽  
Resources Allocation ◽  
Project Duration ◽  
Linear Scheduling ◽  
Scheduling Method ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Working Groups ◽  
Repetitive Activities

Metode penjadwalan linier cocok untuk proyek dengan aktivitas sederhana, dan repetitif dengan jumlah unit yang tipikal, seperti proyek jalan, irigasi, tunnel, apartment, dan perumahan sederhana. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan pemodelan penjadwalan linier proyek pembangunan perumahan sebanyak 50 unit tipikal. Simulasi alokasi sumber daya manusia dan penggunaan buffer agar penggunaan sumber daya manusia dapat seefisien mungkin. Hasil penelitian diperoleh bahwa simulasi ke-8 dengan menggunakan buffer memiliki durasi 314 hari dengan 18 kelompok kerja, apabila dibandingkan dengan simulasi ke-9 tanpa menggunakan buffer memiliki durasi 180 hari dan idle time 134 hari inefisiensi 1522 orang hari.   Linear scheduling method is suitable for projects with repetitive activities, as well as tipical mass product units such as a road, apartment, and residential housings. In this research linear schedule modeling was carried out on residential typical housings project of 50 units. The simulation of linear scheduling is to minimize the idle times by using time buffers and human resources allocation so that the usage of human resources can be as efficient as possible. The research findings show that the 8th simulation by using buffers has a project duration of 314 days were chosen with 18 working groups, compares to 9th simulation without buffers that has a duration of 180 days and 134 days of idle time which with 1522 man day of inefficient.

Current State of Highway Projects Planning and Scheduling

2014 ◽  
Vol 5 (4) ◽  
pp. 50-67 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sunil Sharma ◽  
V. K. Bansal ◽  
Raman Parti
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Capital Investments ◽  
Literature Study ◽  
Planning And Scheduling ◽  
Highway Projects ◽  
Current State ◽  
Linear Scheduling ◽  
Scheduling Method ◽  
Computer Based ◽  
Tools And Techniques

Highway projects involve huge capital investments and prolonged durations. A number of researchers have developed various computer-based tools and techniques to help planners prepare plans and schedules based on their specific needs. CPM is the predominant scheduling method used in construction industry. However, its inability to efficiently plan and schedule repetitive projects such as highways has widely been recognized. Linear scheduling method on the other hand, was specifically designed and developed for repetitive projects. The aim of this paper is to study various planning and scheduling methods discussed in the literature and evaluate their suitability for highway projects. On the basis of literature study, location based planning utilizing linear scheduling method seems to be the most logical and efficient way of planning highway projects for various reasons discussed in the paper. It is however a new concept and therefore has limited use in practice.

scholarly journals Predictor Role of Profession in Explaining Personal Value Priorities and Conflicts between Construction Stakeholders

2015 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 45-62 ◽  
Author(s):  
Babak Panahi ◽  
Elena Moezzi ◽  
Christopher Preece ◽  
Wan Zakaria ◽  
John Rogers
Keyword(s):  
Comparative Analysis ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Personal Values ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Professional Groups ◽  
Personal Value ◽  
Value Priorities ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
The Relationship

This study investigated the relationship between “profession” and personal values to explain the potential conflicts between various groups of construction stakeholders. In this study, personal values of three professional groups of project consultants including architects, engineers, and quantity surveyors were assessed through questionnaire survey in the Malaysian construction industry. Using comparative analysis, the personal value priorities and conflicts between these professional groups of stakeholders were identified. The research findings indicated dissimilar patterns of personal values which explain potential conflicts between the stakeholders with different professions in the Malaysian construction industry. Therefore, this research confirmed the predictor role of “profession” variable in explaining personal values although this relationship was an ambiguous issue in the extant literature. This research, through identifying the value priorities of different groups of construction stakeholders, provides better understanding of their different needs, expectations, and preferences which would help project managers to have better perception of the potential conflicts between these groups of construction stakeholders. 

scholarly journals Barriers to the Effective Regulation of the Building Construction Industry: An Empirical Analysis

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (2) ◽  
pp. 49-58
Author(s):  
W. O. Omollo
Keyword(s):  
Construction Industry ◽  
Simple Random Sampling ◽  
Target Population ◽  
Building Construction ◽  
The Public ◽  
Joint Activities ◽  
Key Stakeholders ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Random Number Table ◽  
Public Interest Theory

This study investigates key barriers to the effective regulation of the building construction industry in Kenya, a case study of Kisii Town. It was guided by the Public Interest Theory of Regulation, which provided the underpinning elucidating why the building construction industry in Kenya needs regulation. The target population comprised 84 registered building contractors with a sample size of 66 selected using simple random sampling by application of random number table. As regards limitation, the study does not measure the extent of quality assurance within the construction industry, but rather delve on the key factors impeding its effective regulation. The research findings show that ineffective regulation of the construction industry in Kisii Town was prompted by the joint activities of building development contractors and limitations of the National Construction Authority (NCA) (the regulator). Regarding the activities of building contractors, identified barriers included failure to refer to key legislation that regulates the construction industry, failure to obtain statutory approvals of building development, and laxity to invite supervision of ongoing projects by planning authorities. Conversely, factors elucidating why NCA was not successfully regulating the construction industry included inadequate multi-sectoral coordination, inadequate surveillance, and limited sensitization of key stakeholders. Drawing from these findings, the study recommends regular monitoring and enhanced enforcement that would promote compliance and sensitization of contractors with applicable standards and regular inspections of ongoing projects. Also, establishing a coordinating committee to harmonize institutions that deal with development control. Keywords: Construction Industry, Kenya, Kisii Town, Regulation

Developing Photo-Posters for Health Education on Perceived Teething Problems in Nigeria

2003 ◽  
Vol 21 (4) ◽  
pp. 369-375
Author(s):  
O. O. Bankole ◽  
O. O. Denloye ◽  
G. A. Aderinokun ◽  
C. O. Badejo R.N. Phn
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Health Education ◽  
Health Professionals ◽  
Target Population ◽  
Participatory Approach ◽  
Culturally Appropriate ◽  
Market Women ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Enugu State ◽  
Rural Dwellers

The development of photo-posters to educate the Nigerian community on the perceived problems of teething was prompted by research findings which revealed that misconceptions about teething were widespread within the populace and in particular among some health professionals. Studies have shown that 58% of ethnic Yoruba rural dwellers in Nigeria attributed ailments to the teething process, while 70% of market women in Enugu State perceived diarrhea in their children was due to teething. In a recent survey, 61.4% of nurses believed diarrhea should accompany the teething process. Furthermore 82.1%, 35.8%, and 27.9% of them implicated fever, weight loss, and boils respectively as signs of teething. Photo-posters adopt the use of visual representation of a problem and the goal of using photo-posters is to begin to create an understanding in the minds of people that babies can be healthy in spite of their erupting teeth. It is believed that using pictures of real babies who are seen to be healthy when their teeth first emerge should go a long way to reducing some of the misconceived ideas. In its development, the participatory approach was adopted involving selected members of the target population, thus making it a culturally appropriate tool. This article describes the rationale behind the choice of the photo-posters and the process of developing them.

scholarly journals Examining the implementation of ISO 9001 in Indonesian construction companies

2015 ◽  
Vol 27 (1) ◽  
pp. 94-107 ◽  
Author(s):  
Debby Willar ◽  
Vaughan Coffey ◽  
Bambang Trigunarsyah
Keyword(s):  
Quality Management ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Current Practice ◽  
Iso 9001 ◽  
Quality Management Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Construction Companies ◽  
Main Motive ◽  
Research Findings ◽  
Management Attitude

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the implementation of quality management systems (QMSs) of Grade 7 (G-7) Indonesian construction companies. This includes the initial motives that have driven the development of QMSs, barriers to effective QMS implementation, the current practice and integration of QMS-ISO 9001 principles and elements, and the performance of contractors implementing such QMSs. Design/methodology/approach – A survey was conducted involving 403 respondents (Quality Management Representatives, Managers, and Project and Site Engineers) from 77 G-7 as well as ISO 9001 certified Indonesian construction companies. Findings – The main motive for G-7 contractors in establishing and implementing ISO 9001 based QMSs are identified as being to effectively and efficiently control project activities. Respondents apparently do not often experience problems related to QMS implementation. However, issues of management attitude and purpose are identified as barriers that may affect effective QMS implementation. The study highlights the ISO 9001 principles and elements that still require to be more critically applied by G-7 contractors in order to fully implement and improve their current QMS effectiveness. The findings also suggest that, although certified, many G-7 contractors have not yet achieved a satisfactory level of performance to be truly competitive in global markets outside Indonesia. Originality/value – To date, only limited research has been conducted into the application of ISO 9001 in the Indonesian construction industry. The research findings reinforced the value of pursuing more effective QMS implementation. They also support current attempts to introduce ISO 9001 QMSs to a much wider base of Indonesian construction companies, particularly small and medium sized contractors and builders.

Analysing project risks in Ghana’s real estate industry

2018 ◽  
Vol 16 (4) ◽  
pp. 413-428
Author(s):  
Charles Amoatey ◽  
Doreen Danquah
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Real Estate ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Environmental Risks ◽  
Real Estate Industry ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Market Risks ◽  
Project Risks ◽  
Technical Risks

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyse project risks in Ghana’s real estate construction industry in terms of likelihood of occurrence, severity of impact and controllability. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative research approach was used in this study to address the research objective. The study population consisted project managers, architects, surveyors and contractors from 17 members of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA) in Ghana. Random stratified sampling technique was used to select 97 participants from these firms. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data, whereas descriptive statistics were used to present findings. Findings All risks identified have some level of likelihood of occurrence, extent of severity of impact and controllability. Market risks, technical risks and environmental risks are more likely to occur. Market risks, technical risks and environmental risks had the highest severity of impact. Financial risks, market risks, managerial risks and technical risks are the most controllable. Among all risks, environmental risks are the direst because they have high likelihood of occurrence and severity of impact but very low controllability. Real estate construction firms (developers) are therefore expected to prioritize remedy of environmental risks. Research limitations/implications The study is based on self-reported perception of project parties on the likelihood, severity of impact and controllability of real estate project risk factors. Firms outside of GREDA were not included in the survey. Therefore, generalisation of these risk factors for the entire construction industry should be done with caution. Practical implications The research results show that Ghanaian real estate developers are aware of the existence of the risks which impact on the performance of the industry. To effectively and efficiently manage these risk factors, project parties must understand the likelihood of occurrence, severity of impact and controllability of the risk factors, as well as individual firm’s responsibilities and capabilities to manage them. Such knowledge helps project managers to prioritise risks in managing them in the face of scarce resources. From an academic research perspective, the paper contributes to a conceptual risk assessment framework for the real estate industry. Originality/value The paper’s main contributions relate to the introduction of real estate construction sector-specific factors to project risk management modelling.

scholarly journals Ethics in construction industry : project managers’ case study

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Thobeka Kahlela
Keyword(s):  
South Africa ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Production Efficiency ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Project Managers ◽  
Influential Factors ◽  
Project Manager ◽  
South African Council ◽  
Unethical Conduct ◽  
Unethical Practices

Business ethics and corporate governance have taken centre stage globally in the last decade due to the increasing unethical practices by private and public institutions. These unethical practices adversely affect the image of professionals and organisations with a resultant negative impact on the competitive advantage of the organisation. This study aims to assess factors contributing to unethical behaviours of project managers. The study was conducted in five provinces of South Africa including KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Cape Town, Limpopo and Gauteng. The sample frame consists of construction project managers registered with South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) and Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Random sampling technique was employed in the selection of samples. A total number of thirty six questionnaires were analysed for the study. Descriptive statistics were employed for the analysis of data. Findings include personal value, organisational culture and education are very influential factors on ethical decisions of a project manager. Furthermore, corporate value and individual values are the factors which most influence the ethical judgment of a project manager. Improving ethical practice for the professionals could improve ethical performance in construction projects and production efficiency in the construction industry in SA. Based on the findings of the study, ways to mitigate unethical conduct would be; practicing ethical conduct at all times will improve production, the levels of risk on projects will decrease and also an improvement in communication and transparency will minimize the levels of unethical conduct of the project managers in South Africa.

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