Construction Companies Research Articles

Construction 4.0 technology and lean construction ambidexterity capability in China’s construction industry: a sociotechnical systems perspective

Purpose This study aims to explore the level of adoption of Construction 4.0 (C4.0) technologies and of Lean Construction (LC) ambidexterity capability in China’s construction industry. By incorporating C4.0 and LC ambidexterity into a sociotechnical systems (STS) framework, this research provides practical insights for construction practitioners and companies seeking C4.0 and LC. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts the questionnaire survey method. Data was obtained from Chinese construction professionals working on projects using C4.0 technologies. The data were analysed using mean score ranking and three nonparametric techniques, including the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Spearman rank correlation. Findings According to the ranking analysis, building information modelling and offsite construction have the highest adoption level, while additive manufacturing and blockchain rank lowest. Digital technology is more widely used in China’s construction industry than in physical technology. Many C4.0 technologies are significantly correlated with LC ambidexterity. Based on the STS perspective, we propose a holistic approach that incorporates C4.0 technologies and LC ambidexterity. Originality/value Conceptually, the study incorporates C4.0 and LC ambidexterity into the STS framework. Empirically, this study fills the gap in the current literature by exploring the level of C4.0 technology adoption in the Chinese construction industry, as well as the level of LC ambidexterity capabilities. Construction companies can use this framework to make strategic decisions regarding investments in LC practices and the adoption of C4.0 technologies, such as investing in staff skill training and new technology deployment to adapt to the ever-changing environment.

The impact of sustainable design and construction upon FM: four case studies

Purpose This paper aims to analyze the impact of sustainability measures taken during the design and construction phases, by examining two categories of sustainability: energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions and material selection and waste management. These aspects are examined from the perspectives of long-term building performance and maintenance practices, as well as user/tenant satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach This study includes a literature review related to the two topics under consideration, followed by a comparative case study analysis of four projects to determine practical validity. All case studies in this paper used a semi-structured survey with various project stakeholders, which helped the authors identify measures taken as well as obstacles and challenges during the process. Findings According to the four case studies, adequate attention should be paid to the two areas of interest during a project’s design and construction phases. Including case studies from around the world (four case studies from three different countries) offers insights into effective sustainability practices in building design and construction, providing instances of successful implementation and emphasizing the obstacles and potential when incorporating sustainability into the design and construction phases. Research limitations/implications The findings also show that design and construction participants and companies should reduce waste generation and carbon emissions. In addition, they should make decisions on material selection to enhance projects’ sustainability and to contribute to creating a habitable planet for the future. Originality/value The influence of the design and construction phases on long-term project sustainability is of major importance and concern to users, owners, designers, contractors and facility managers. This study illustrates the necessity of including sustainability measures in the design and construction phases, highlighting the importance of sustainability in building design and construction through effective implementation techniques and interdisciplinary teamwork to realize sustainable goals.

AHP기법을 이용한 건설기업별 안전수준평가에 관한 연구

Disaster in the construction industry is a major social and economic problem in Korea due to its unique risk, high incidence rate, various causes and complex factors. In order to reduce the risk of accidents in the construction industry, various preventive activities of each individual company are needed, and disaster evaluation should be conducted by various methods. In this study, a disaster score evaluation model could be proposed to evaluate and compare the safety level of each individual construction company. At this time, eight factors were selected: the size of the construction industry, the amount of construction work, the type of construction industry accidents, the age of construction industry injuries, the timing og accidents in the construction industry, the length of service for construction workers, the area of accidents, and the degree of accidents for construction workers, and industrial accident statistics for four years from 2029 to 2022 were used. In addition, in order to obtain the weights of eight factors, a survey of 39 safety experts and a model for calculating the accident score of each construction company using the AHP technique could be proposed. As a result of calculating the accident scores of two construction companies with similar accident rates using this model, it was found that the safety level of the two companies was different. This model was used to calculate the accident score of the two construction companies with similar accident rates, and it was found that there was a difference in the safety level of the two companies, because even in the same disaster, the disaster score of the companies with large-disasters is high. Therefore, by applying the model proposed in this study, it is believed that it will be of great help in accurately knowing the safety level of individual construction companies and developing safety activities suitable for the company.

Comparative Analysis of the Level of Financial Efficiency in the National Construction Services Industry Before and After the Implementation of PSAK 72 with a Two-Stage Data Envelopment Analysis Approach

This study analyzes the financial efficiency of Indonesia's national construction services industry before and after the implementation of PSAK 72 using the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method. It aims to address the poor performance of contractor companies, which have negative operating cash flows and high Debt to Equity Ratios (DER). Input variables include Net Fixed Assets, Operating Expenses, and Total Employees, while output variables are Revenue and Profit Before Tax. Efficiency scores range from 0 to 1, with scores close to 1 indicating high efficiency. Prior to PSAK 72, PP Presisi Tbk and Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk were the most efficient companies, consistently achieving perfect efficiency scores. Total Bangun Persada Tbk was the least efficient. After PSAK 72, Bukaka Teknik Utama Tbk reached maximum efficiency in 2021, while Brantas Abipraya (Persero) was the least efficient in 2020. A Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test showed the data was not normally distributed, leading to a non-parametric Wilcoxon signed rank test. The test indicated a significant difference in financial efficiency before and after PSAK 72, with a p-value of 0.04. This suggests a notable impact of PSAK 72 on the efficiency of construction companies.

Strengthening Person Organization Fit and Innovative Work Behavior Through Psychological Capital and Leader-Member Exchange

This study investigates the interrelationships among Psychological Capital, Leader-Member Exchange (LMX), Person-Organization Fit (POF), and Innovative Work Behavior (IWB) within the context of the construction industry in Makassar. The research aims to determine the direct and indirect effects of Psychological Capital and LMX on POF and, subsequently, on IWB among employees. Specifically, the study poses the following research questions: (1) Does Psychological Capital influence Person-Organization Fit among construction company employees? (2) What is the impact of Leader-Member Exchange on Person-Organization Fit in this setting? (3) How do Psychological Capital and Leader-Member Exchange directly affect Innovative Work Behavior? (4) Do Psychological Capital and Leader-Member Exchange indirectly influence Innovative Work Behavior through Person-Organization Fit? The significance of this research lies in its potential to enhance understanding of key human resource constructs and their interplay, which could inform the development of HR management practices. Moreover, the findings are expected to provide actionable insights for construction companies aiming to foster a culture of innovation among their workforce. The methodology encompasses the collection of primary data from 397 employees across various construction companies, employing proportional stratified random sampling to select 199 respondents based on the Slovin Formula with a 5% precision level. Path analysis is conducted using the AMOS 24 software to analyze the data. The anticipated outcomes of this research include the establishment of significant relationships between Psychological Capital and both Person-Organization Fit and Innovative Work Behavior, as well as between Leader-Member Exchange and Person-Organization Fit. Furthermore, the study seeks to explore whether Psychological Capital and Leader-Member Exchange can enhance Innovative Work Behavior mediated by Person-Organization Fit. The results aim to contribute both theoretically to academic discourse and practically as a resource for organizational development in the construction sector.

ANALYSIS OF THE FUNCTIONALITY OF LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT FOR EFFECTIVE SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION

The article delves into the critical role of logistics management in the construction industry, emphasizing the need for efficient material resource management and optimized supply chains. It aims to explore the principles of logistics management in construction organizations for supply chain management, with a specific focus on minimizing costs and optimizing resource utilization. The proposed strategic approach involves the transformation of classical concepts into logistics-oriented organizational activities, integrating advanced technologies and innovative resource management systems to unlock the full potential of material assets and streamline operations. The article underscores the potential impact of these strategies on the nation's economic landscape, emphasizing their contribution to economic stability and resilience. Additionally, the integration of logistics management into construction practices is highlighted as a catalyst for scientific advancements within the field. Serving as a roadmap for construction companies, the article urges the adoption of forward-thinking strategies aligned with the demands of the contemporary construction landscape. By embracing innovative approaches and leveraging advanced technologies, construction organizations can drive economic revitalization and contribute to broader urban development initiatives. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of collaboration and integration among stakeholders in the construction industry, leveraging digital platforms and collaborative tools to enhance communication, share real-time data, and streamline coordination among suppliers, logistics providers, and project teams. Integrated logistics networks will enable seamless flow of information and resources.

KUALITAS SISTEM INFORMASI MANAJEMEN DAN EFEKTIVITAS PENGAMBILAN KEPUTUSAN PADA PERUSAHAAN KONSTRUKSI DI JAWA BARAT DARI PERSPEKTIF: TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI, MANAJEMEN PENGETAHUAN DAN PENGENDALIAN INTERNAL

Construction companies in carrying out their activities require management information systems and technology in decision-making. The purpose of this research is to know and analyze the impact of information technology, knowledge management, and internal control on the quality of management information systems, which implies the effectiveness of decision-making for construction companies in West Java, both simultaneously and partially. This study employs a quantitative, cross-sectional research method. The research population is 1160 construction companies in West Java, with a sample of 150 construction companies in West Java consisting of 3 observation units, namely project managers, site engineers, and site managers. The research findings reveal that information technology not only supports but also significantly enhances the quality of management information systems. Furthermore, knowledge management directly influences the improvement of a good quality management information system, which means that knowledge management has a direct and significant positive impact on the quality management information system. Information technology, knowledge management, and internal control can enhance effective decision-making through quality management information systems.

Proposed Business Strategy to Ensure Continuity in Construction Company (Study Case of PT Rekayasa Industri)

Proposed Business Strategy to Ensure Continuity in Construction Company (Study Case of PT Rekayasa Industri)

Relationship between civil construction companies and suppliers: comparative analysis with companies in other sectors

Strategic supplier management establishes criteria for the selection, evaluation, and development of suppliers, in addition to the administration of contracts and supplies. This type of management aims to organize all processes involving suppliers, defining criteria to support decision-making in selecting the best partners, considering those who meet pre-established requirements. Furthermore, efficient management provides closer proximity to suppliers, facilitating relationships, fostering collaborative innovation, improving product costs, and increasing the company's competitiveness. The objective of this work is to analyze the relationship of suppliers in the construction industry and compare it with companies from other sectors. To achieve this objective, an applied, quantitative, and exploratory research was developed through field research. Questionnaires were applied to employees of construction companies and companies from other sectors, such as service providers and large industrial sectors, addressing issues related to organizational characteristics and specific axes that determine the relationship, such as trust, long-term relationship, and information sharing between client and supplier. The collected data were subjected to descriptive and exploratory analyses to observe the divergent and similar characteristics between the two groups. The results indicate that construction companies have gaps in the axes of trust, information sharing, and especially in the sphere of long-term relationships compared to companies in other sectors. This indicates the need for improvements in supplier management practices in the construction industry to achieve a competitive performance more aligned with other industrial sectors. The implementation of more robust strategies and the adoption of better practices in supplier management can help overcome these gaps, resulting in a more efficient and collaborative business environment, with mutual benefits for construction companies and their suppliers.

You get what you expect: assessing the effect of a compressed work schedule on time pressure, fatigue, perceived productivity, and work-life balance

ABSTRACT With a refreshed surge of interest in alternative work schedules, such as the compressed workweek, as a tool to increase employer attractiveness, the question of the effects of such work arrangements recurs. In light of inconsistent research findings, we examined the effects of the implementation of a four-day compressed workweek on time pressure, fatigue, perceived productivity, and work-life balance within a construction company. Moreover, we investigated the effect of employee expectations. Drawing on longitudinal data (N = 247) and using Latent Change Score Modelling (LCSM), we found that work-life balance increased while fatigue and time pressure decreased. Three months after implementing a compressed work schedule, perceived productivity remained stable. These effects were contingent on individuals’ expectations regarding the effect of the compressed schedule. The results highlight the importance of employee expectations in shaping the outcomes of the adoption of alternative work schedules.

Classification of Sustainable Innovations: Dimensions, Scope and Variations - Multi-Case Study in Civil Construction in The State of Paraíba

Objective: Classify sustainable innovations in the construction industry in the State of Paraíba. Theoretical Framework: Sustainable innovation, its dimensions (product, process, organizational), scope (radical/incremental, proactive/reactive) and variations (integrated, complementary, technological - corrective/preventive, pollution control, cleaner production, environmental technology and environmental - and social - endogenous/exogenous R&D). Method: Descriptive, exploratory study. Conducted in the form of a multiple case study. Data collected through semi-structured interviews, systematic observation and documents analyzed using the content analysis technique. Results and Conclusions: in the product dimension, the innovations were, for the most part, incremental and proactive in scope. And the variation fell into environmental and complementary technology. In the process dimension, they presented incremental and proactive coverage. As for the variation, they presented technological characteristics of cleaner production. In the organizational dimension, they presented radical, incremental, proactive and reactive coverage. Only in Company C did they present characteristics of complementary and endogenous social variation. It can be concluded that the companies investigated are aligned with the sustainable development paradigm, but with incremental predominance. Implications of the Research: The research reinforces the concept of sustainable innovation and its dimensions, variations and scope. Furthermore, it classifies innovations based on several previous researches, compiling them and demonstrating their applications in the practice of construction companies. Originality: The proposed classification of sustainable innovations in the way it was done in this research is considered original, which, in addition to reinforcing previous theoretical studies, makes an empirical application and demonstrates in practice how the theory of sustainable innovation can be verified.

Corporate Entrepreneurship and Firm Performance of Construction Companies in Port Harcourt

Purpose: This study examined the relationship between corporate entrepreneurship and firm performance of construction companies in Port Harcourt. Competitive aggressiveness and autonomy were used as proxies for corporate entrepreneurship as independent variables while firm performance was proxied with productivity and delivery performance as dependent variables. Methodology: Four hypotheses guided the study which adopted a cross-sectional research design with purposive sampling technique used to select a sample size of 130 general managers, marketing managers, human resource managers and project managers in 26 construction companies in Port Harcourt registered with the FINELIB Nigeria Business Directory. Structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data and the responses were collated on a five-point Likert scale. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and the hypotheses were evaluated using the Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient with SPSS version 23.0. Findings: The findings showed that corporate entrepreneurship had a strong and significant relationship with firm performance of construction companies in Port Harcourt. In particular, competitive aggressiveness and autonomy had strong and positive linear associations with both productivity and delivery performance when tested at 0.05 level of confidence. It concluded therefore that it is important that construction companies in Port Harcourt should adopt corporate entrepreneurship in the areas of competitive aggressiveness and autonomy in order to improve their performance. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: It is recommended that construction companies in Port Harcourt should compete aggressively and improve upon the autonomy in their decision-making if they are to achieve higher levels of firm performance

How does servitization promote value added in construction industry? The moderating role of R&D innovation

PurposeServitization and research and development (R&D) innovation provide new developmental opportunities for transformation in the construction industry. This study aims to explore the transformative impact of servitization and R&D innovation on the value added of the construction industry, offering new insights into industry transformation and growth.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes panel data from Chinese listed construction companies from 2014 to 2022 to empirically investigate the relationship among servitization, R&D innovation and value added in the construction industry. The data analysis is augmented by incorporating text mining techniques to rigorously investigate the interplay among servitization, R&D innovation and the value added within the construction industry.FindingsThe research findings indicate that the impact of servitization on value added follows a positive U-shaped relationship, while the influence of R&D innovation on value added exhibits an inverted U-shaped relationship. Additionally, innovation investment plays a negative moderating role in the relationship between servitization and value added.Originality/valueThis study reveals a fresh perspective on how construction companies can leverage servitization as a strategic pathway for transformation and competitive advantage. The research also lays a theoretical groundwork for future innovation investment strategies in the construction industry, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to innovation investments to maximize value added.

Innovations in safety management for construction sites: the role of deep learning and computer vision techniques

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential of using computer vision and deep learning (DL) techniques for improving safety on construction sites. It provides an overview of the current state of research in the field of construction site safety (CSS) management using these technologies. Specifically, the study focuses on identifying hazards and monitoring the usage of personal protective equipment (PPE) on construction sites. The findings highlight the potential of computer vision and DL to enhance safety management in the construction industry. Design/methodology/approach The study involves a scientometric analysis of the current direction for using computer vision and DL for CSS management. The analysis reviews relevant studies, their methods, results and limitations, providing insights into the state of research in this area. Findings The study finds that computer vision and DL techniques can be effective for enhancing safety management in the construction industry. The potential of these technologies is specifically highlighted for identifying hazards and monitoring PPE usage on construction sites. The findings suggest that the use of these technologies can significantly reduce accidents and injuries on construction sites. Originality/value This study provides valuable insights into the potential of computer vision and DL techniques for improving safety management in the construction industry. The findings can help construction companies adopt innovative technologies to reduce the number of accidents and injuries on construction sites. The study also identifies areas for future research in this field, highlighting the need for further investigation into the use of these technologies for CSS management.

Management control practices for the sustainability transformation in the European construction industry

PurposeWhile research on sustainability reporting in the construction industry has already provided comprehensive findings, the purpose of this paper is to answer the question of how construction companies anchor the topic of sustainability in their strategic and operative management control practices. The implementation of sustainable business models and sustainability strategies requires proper management control instruments or mechanisms that support the transformation process or make it possible in the first place.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative content analysis based on deductive and inductive procedures was conducted. 39 sustainability reports published by the largest construction companies in the EU were examined.FindingsValuable insights are provided by showing which control instruments and mechanisms are used to improve corporate sustainability performance as well as how these are linked systematically. The results show that the focus is on strategic planning, cultural and administrative controls, while short-term targets, which could set out the path to achieving the long-term sustainability goals set, are often not reported. Strategic stakeholder theory and legitimacy theory provide explanations for the use of management control practices identified.Originality/valuePrevious studies often focus on selected single control practices and miss holistic approaches for investigating corporate sustainability in construction companies. Furthermore, theoretical perspectives with instrumental and socio/political views on corporate sustainability help us explain the control practices applied. Moreover, practitioners, standard setters and legislators can use the findings for sustainability management or for developing standards and legislation.

Application of Energy-Saving Materials in Architectural Design

The conventional process of building construction is associated with issues such as the waste of construction materials and environmental pollution. Sustainable development highlights the importance of energy conservation and eco-friendly practices. It is essential to use energy-efficient and green materials in building designs to ensure the healthy growth of construction companies. This article discusses the advantages and principles of incorporating energy-saving materials in architectural design. It examines the strategies and critical control points for using energy-saving materials in architectural design, offering guidance for the sustainable development of the construction industry.

Achieving net zero neighborhoods: A case study review of circular economy initiatives for South Wales

Adopting net zero neighborhoods (NZN) combined with circular economy are increasingly recognized as an essential strategy for construction companies, allowing their transition towards sustainability and contributing to climate change mitigation. Transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN is necessary to achieve energy self-sufficiency and net zero by 2050. The success of NZN hinges on government initiatives. However, existing studies appear to lack a comprehensive exploration of the transformation initiatives within NZN, spanning aspects like raw materials, construction practices, transportation, and waste management, particularly in terms of technological advancements. To address the gap, this research introduces a conceptual framework that integrates the multiple case studies design method with an urban transformative capacity model. This innovative framework is the first application of a multi-level urban transformative capacity model in transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN within a specific region. This research specifically utilizes South Wales in the UK as a case study. It identified four key initiatives in technology, construction, transportation, and waste management. These initiatives offer significant benefits, including fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly construction industry through enhanced traceability and efficiency, and simultaneously promoting social sustainability by improving community engagement, providing social benefits through sharing economy initiatives, and creating new green job opportunities.

Business Resources for the Implementation of Home Automation Technology in Homes in Residential Areas

The objective of this study is to determine the business resources necessary for the implementation of Home Automation Technology in homes. Descriptive research, non-experimental, transectional or cross-sectional field design, the sample was six companies in the residential housing construction sector of the department of Cesar, the data collection technique was the survey, the instrument was the questionnaire with options Likert type response. There is a lack of human resources with sufficient knowledge of the subject, there are few people who have technical training in this type of technology, which is well accepted in the builders' union and who are willing to implement it in medium-term projects. As for other resources such as physical, financial and technological resources, these finally have a moderate level of acceptance and availability according to the results obtained. The relevance consists of continuing to consolidate the implementation of technological innovations in terms of tending to integrate construction companies in the region with the research centers of educational institutions and universities.

Modeling and optimization of costs associated with the development of clustered organizational management structures in construction companies

The article aims to examine models and methods of cost optimization associated with the development of clustered organizational structures in construction companies. The research methodology involved an analysis of existing approaches, simulation modeling, and econometric equation analysis. As a result, different approaches to cost estimation and optimization applied in the construction sphere are presented. Particular attention is paid to the development of complex models and their optimization under the conditions of uncertainty through simulation modeling of various scenarios of cluster organizational structures in construction companies. The analysis also includes an assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of econometric semi-linear dynamic equations and the feasibility of their application. The discussion section emphasizes the importance of integrating different optimization methods to achieve the most optimal outcome in the management of construction companies. Further research directions are outlined. The results can be relevant when formulating development strategies and making investment decisions in the construction sphere. The research conclusions confirm the significance of applying modern cost optimization methods to improve the management efficiency of construction companies and their competitiveness in the market of construction services.

On fire risk reduction when operating individual households

The article aims to elaborate a technical means for reducing fire occurrence in internal electrical networks of individual households. General scientific methods of numerical analysis, electric circuit theory, and prediction theory were used. It was determined that the operating mode of the electric network under study is characterized by a significant unbalanced power consumption due to the asymmetry and non-sinusoidality of phase currents caused by the occurrence of additional symmetrical components of forward, reverse, and zero sequences. Additional heat losses increase significantly and lead to overheating of the neutral conductor, thus intensifying fire risks. On the basis of measurements and the authors’ software, a simulation modeling of integration of the developed balancing device into the investigated network was carried out. The conducted analysis found that the developed device can reduce additional heat losses and fire risks by over 90%. Using statistical methods of forecasting, regression analysis in particular, a preventive long-term assessment of the level of additional power losses was conducted. Autoregressive equations for predicting the parameter of additional power losses at a certain probability level were derived. MATLAB graphic editor technologies and Excel software were used to visualize changes in the studied indicators. The results can be used by construction companies when designing the internal electrical network of individual households, as well as for researchers developing approaches to reducing additional losses of electrical energy.