Construction Professionals Research Articles

The impact of cross-organizational private relationships on cooperative behavior in construction projects: evidence from Chinese construction industry

PurposeAntagonistic relationship among the participants of construction projects has significantly improved, and further improving cooperation quality are committed. In this context, expanding new ways to improve cooperation quality has become a new topic in cooperation research. This study is dedicated to exploring the mechanism of cross-organizational private relationships on cooperative behaviors, which is rarely addressed in current research on construction projects, and provides reference for the rational use of cross-organizational private relationships.Design/methodology/approachBased on analysis of studies related to relational governance theory, institutional theory and project complexity, this study constructs the theoretical model. This study uses survey data from 395 construction professionals in China to test the theoretical model by using structural equation modeling (SEM) and explains the direct and indirect mechanism of cross-organizational private relationships on cooperation behavior.Findings(1) Cross-organizational private relationships have direct and indirect facilitating effect on cooperation behavior. (2) Relational norms as mediating variables contribute to the expansion of the positive effects of cross-organizational private relationships on cooperation behavior. (3) Institutional environment and project complexity have the moderating effect between cross-organizational private relationships and cooperation behavior.Originality/valueThis research investigates the impact mechanisms and boundary conditions of cross-organizational private relationships at the micro level on the cooperative behaviors in construction projects and conducts empirical research. It is a topic that has not been adequately researched in the field of project management. The research results expand the scope of research on relational governance and deepen the research on the antecedents of relational norms. It provides the base for the proposed contingency theory of relational governance.

Adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution Technologies in the Construction Sector: Evidence from a Questionnaire Survey

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) can significantly benefit the construction sector, improving productivity, efficiency, collaborative efforts, and product quality while promoting safety and sustainability. However, research on applying 4IR technologies in construction is scarce in developing countries. It is crucial to understand the ability of construction companies to adopt new technologies and identify factors influencing the success of technology implementation. In this study, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted with construction professionals to evaluate the level of technological development of the construction market in an emerging economy, assess the potential for innovation implementation, and identify factors that might influence technological development. The results showed that most innovations are in the early stages of implementation in the construction sector, and their adoption tends to occur differently, depending on the size of the company and the stage of the construction lifecycle in which they operate. Furthermore, technologies tend to be progressively adopted and driven by virtualization technologies. This article presents a framework to assist in decision-making regarding the adoption of 4IR technologies at different phases of the lifecycle of construction projects and identifies the potential barriers and promoters of this adoption in the analyzed context.

Enhancing decision-making in Australian concrete construction: a decision support model using an Entropy-TOPSIS approach

PurposeThis study addresses the global landscape of offsite construction, highlighting its variable adoption patterns and the challenge posed by the prevalent use of suboptimal decision-making methods. In response, the decision-making model seeks to equip decision-makers with tools for well-informed decisions on concrete construction systems, tailored to the unique characteristics of each project, in contrast to the persisting reliance on expert knowledge, checklists or similar tools.Design/methodology/approachThe study extracts decision-making criteria through literature reviews, pilot studies and surveys amongst Australian construction professionals. A comprehensive comparison of four concrete systems against each identified criterion is conducted, followed by the application of an integrated decision model (Entropy-TOPSIS) to rank the systems, considering all criteria simultaneously. Real-world case studies validate the practical applicability of the model.FindingsAn analysis of 15 criteria demonstrated the multifaceted nature of selecting concrete construction systems, emphasising evolving industry priorities like time efficiency, environmental considerations and logistical constraints. The enduring appeal of in-situ concrete in complex projects underscores the significance of traditional methods. The integration of the Entropy-TOPSIS model proved to be a robust decision-making tool, enabling professionals to simultaneously consider all criteria and make well-informed, customised decisions.Originality/valueThe study’s originality lies in its comprehensive approach, considering diverse criteria and presenting a flexible decision-making model suitable for the dynamic demands of the construction industry.

Evaluating social media in architecture, engineering, construction and operation industry: a Nigerian perspective on applications and benefits

PurposeIn several developing contexts, the delivery of Architecture, Engineering Construction and Operation (AECO) projects continually grapples with issues such as fragmented communication, a lack of transparency, safety and risk management concerns. These problems result from the use of traditional construction practices and insufficient technology integration. Therefore, there is a pressing need to enhance communication, transparency and collaboration within construction projects in these countries through the improved utilization of innovative tools. Consequently, this study empirically assesses both the application areas and the benefits associated with the adoption of social media within the Nigerian construction industry.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a quantitative research approach that utilized a structured questionnaire to collect responses from construction professionals. The respondents were selected using a combination of purposive and snowball sampling techniques, resulting in a 75% response rate. Data analysis included mean score value (MSV), standard deviations and normality testing (Shapiro-Wilk) to assess data characteristics. The Kruskal-Wallis H-test was used for further analysis due to the ordinal nature of the data.FindingsThe findings of this study indicate that social media can be effectively used in project management, communication, safety management, as well as marketing and branding of AECO projects. The most significant benefits of using social media in construction activities include building trust and credibility, enhancing crisis communication and improving project collaboration.Originality/valueThis study introduces a fresh perspective by showcasing the transformative potential of social media, traditionally viewed as a communication tool, in addressing complex issues in construction project delivery. Consequently, the findings of this study can offer a paradigm shift in the way construction professionals, policymakers and industry stakeholders perceive and harness the capabilities of social media.

Exploring the Benefits of Mass Timber Construction in the Workplace: A Novel Primer for Research

Mass timber construction has recently gained popularity due to its outstanding environmental benefits and building performance, which hold revolutionary potential for the construction industry. However, its impacts from the perspective of occupants have not been thoroughly explored. This study introduces an innovative empirical approach that explores the potential benefits of mass timber construction for individuals and organizations, with an emphasis on the workplace. We review the conceptual framework regarding how visual and physical exposure to timber construction materials and finishes have a positive effect on individuals and organizations at a broad level. We propose a more holistic mixed-method behavioral approach to studying occupant behavior and well-being by integrating self-reported questionnaires, objective biomarkers (heart rate variability and hair cortisol), and indoor environmental quality (IEQ) measures. Our study offers a novel research primer on the exploration of mass timber construction impacts and benefits for both office workers and construction workers. Participants from different office settings completed pre- and post-occupancy evaluation surveys to assess their experiences, including IEQ satisfaction, productivity, and health. Office workers were located in three different offices: a controlled laboratory environment, an open-plan office, and an open-plan space with a timber interior. The construction workers worked in a timber space for three months and then moved to work in a building with a concrete structure. The analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression to compare differences between office settings and assess the relationship between environmental variables and overall satisfaction in IEQ, comfort, productivity, and health. In office workers, in terms of building image, thermal comfort, and artificial lighting, the data analysis revealed significant differences in occupants’ satisfaction levels between office settings. However, the low number of participants affected the results, and some factors were not found significant in relation to the office setting. Among tradespeople, there was no relationship between the building environment and productivity, health, or comfort. However, the results of hair cortisol testing indicated that working in a timber space can decrease the level of cortisol (stress) and have an impact on the productivity of workers. Such occupant’s perspective research is pivotal to informing policy makers, developers, business owners, construction professionals, timber industry stakeholders, environmentalists, and researchers in their decision-making processes. Fostering the future widespread adoption and advancement of mass timber construction.

Effect of dispersion behavior of silica fume on the rheological properties and early hydration characteristics of ultra-high strength mortar

Silica fume plays a crucial role in ultra-high performance cementitious materials, but its dispersion, influenced by varying densification levels, leads to different degrees of agglomeration. However, the precise impact of this on rheological properties and early hydration characteristics of ultra-high performance cementitious materials remains unclear. This study assesses the impact of highly densified silica fume (HDSF), moderately densified silica fume (MDSF), and raw silica fume (RSF) on the rheological prperties of ultra-high strength mortar (UHSM). Additionally, the early hydration characteristics of UHSM influenced by these silica fumes are investigated through both heat of hydration and penetration resistance methods. The results showed that HDSF contained numerous large agglomerates, contrasting with MDSF and RSF, where the agglomerate sizes were comparable to those of cement particles. As the content of HDSF increased, the yield stress, viscosity, and thixotropy of UHSM gradually rose, accompanied by a notable decrease in hydration rate. Conversely, increasing MDSF and RSF content initially decreased and then increased these rheological properties, while the hydration rate remained relatively unchanged. The distribution behavior of the silica fumes influences the rheological properties of UHSM through water film thickness (particle spacing). Large agglomerates in HDSF reduce the activity of the entire cementitious system, significantly decreasing the hydration rate. In contrast, MDSF and RSF primarily influence the particle spacing within the cementitious system, subsequently impacting the hydration rate. This study provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for construction professionals in selecting appropriate silica fume for designing and regulating ultra-high performance cementitious materials performance.

Adequacy of defects liability periods for public construction projects in Ghana

PurposeThe practice of the defects liability period (DLP) is a risk management strategy meant to secure durable and high-quality works. However, construction products continue to malfunction even after the expiration of DLPs. This study seeks to determine the adequacy of DLPs existing in the construction industry and propose appropriate DLPs for construction projects in the Ghanaian construction industry.Design/methodology/approachApplying quantitative research strategy, 124 questionnaires were retrieved from construction professionals surveyed. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cramer’s V and the significance test with the aid of Stata software.FindingsIt was found that defects start showing in both buildings and roads within 12 months after being handed over for the client’s use. The significance test and Cramer’s V analysis indicate low concordance amongst respondents that the 6–12 month DLPs existing in Ghana are adequate. It is found that the existing DLP practice does not provide sufficient security to clients.Practical implicationsConstruction project clients will need to include the tenderer’s proposed DLP as part of the tender evaluation criteria with the objective of picking up a signal of the quality of work to be delivered.Originality/valueThis paper is one of the pioneering studies addressing the issue of the adequacy of DLPs in the construction industry in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. The findings trigger policy and regulatory changes in conditions guiding construction contracts procured in most developing countries that have adopted and adapted to the World Bank Public Procurement Guidelines.

Social network analysis for identifying the significant drivers of off-site construction adoption in Egypt

PurposeRapid urbanization and the shortcomings of traditional construction methods motivate construction professionals to explore faster and more sustainable approaches such as off-site construction (OSC). Thus, the purpose of this paper is to identify the drivers influencing OSC adoption and to explore the key drivers of its widespread adoption in Egypt.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive global literature review was performed initially to develop an up-to-date list of OSC adoption drivers, which was confirmed in the Egyptian context through a pilot study. Then, social network analysis (SNA) was utilized to determine the most influential drivers as well as shortlist them to construct the final questionnaire survey. A total of 57 stakeholders in the Egyptian construction industry responded. Lastly, the relative importance index (RII) was calculated to rank the drivers, revealing the key drivers.FindingsThe results revealed that higher productivity, improving project quality control, shortening construction time, improving product quality and improving supervision and inspection are the top five drivers. On the contrary, government policies and regulations is the least significant driver.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the body of knowledge by introducing a comprehensive, up-to-date list of drivers, which helps the stakeholders gain a better understanding of the driving enablers of adopting OSC generally and helps Egyptian stakeholders make more informed decisions about its implementation specifically.

Construction projects: interactions of the causes of delays

PurposeThis review paper aims to highlight the causes of delays (COD) and their interactions in construction projects, potentially aiding in timely completion and waste reduction through early anticipation.Design/methodology/approachForty-seven global literature were examined in detail to identify CODS and its interactions using the systematic literature review (SLR) method that utilised the PRISMA guidelines to ensure the studies reviewed were adequate to safeguard the robustness and comprehensiveness. Three-way analysis, such as Pareto, degree of centrality and loops, was undertaken to identify the critical Level 1,2 and 3 CODS that affect the Construction projects.FindingsThe research findings demonstrate that 65 CODs in eight categories affect construction projects. The CODs act in coherence rather than silos; the CLD displays complex interconnections of 44 factors obtained through the pairwise comparison of the 47 identified literature of the SLR. Through its systematic analysis of interaction loops, this research identified Ten level 1 critical CODs, two second-level critical CODs and 4 Third-level critical CODs. “Contractors' excessive workload/beyond potential/inadequate experience” emerged as the top COD that affects scheduling and project delay.Research limitations/implicationsThe study limitations include using only English articles and a restricted number of databases. However, the chosen databases were reputable and underwent thorough peer review processes. This study may have limitations due to the SLR, which means that factors affecting COD and interactions may vary by country, and future research is suggested for validation.Practical implicationsThis study identified interactions of construction delays that potentially support scheduling risk management during the early stage of the project and reduce waste to improve sustainability. The theoretical implications of SLR-based research include helping develop a framework that would potentially have all COD in the current scenario and aid future academic and industrial research factor-wise and country-wise in aiding sustainability. This will support and provide construction professionals and academia with knowledge of the COD related to factors and their interactions to be considered in the early assessment and management of future projects and improve sustainability.Originality/valueMost literature studies the factors or causes of construction delays that affect construction projects. The CODs primarily do not operate in silos but combine with other causes to enhance their influence on delays. Hence, it is of utmost importance to study the interactions of COD to enhance the knowledge in the construction field that would aid in schedule repair and, in turn, on-time project delivery. The study is the first related to COD and their interactions in construction projects in the digital era.

Boosting Construction Workers’ Performances Through Motivation: A Study in Ghana

Motivation is essential for boosting worker’s performance to achieve high productivity within an organisation. This study investigates the impact of various motivational strategies on construction worker performance in Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. We aim to identify the key factors that enhance employee engagement and productivity, informing effective management practices within the construction industry. A quantitative survey was conducted among construction professionals, including architects, quantity surveyors, civil engineers, builders, and artisans. Participants were selected from various company sizes (small, medium, and large) and experience levels (five to thirty- five years) to capture diverse perspectives and ensure some level of representativeness within the targeted population. Descriptive statistics and Relative Importance Index (RII) were employed to analyse data on employee perceptions of motivation and its impact on performance. Open-ended responses provided additional insights and context. The study reveals a strong link between motivation and construction worker performance. Factors like fair compensation, clear career development prospects, and a positive work environment were key motivators. Monetary rewards alone were deemed less impactful, highlighting the importance of both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. The study is limited to the generalisable construction industry in Ghana; regional variations and cultural factors may require further investigation. The self-reported nature of the data poses potential bias, and future research could explore targeted interventions and leadership styles to refine motivational strategies. This study contributes to understanding motivation within the construction industry, offering valuable insights for practitioners to optimise workforce performance and boost productivity. The emphasis on quantitative and qualitative data analysis strengthens the findings and provides a more nuanced perspective on employee experiences.

Measuring the impact of lean implementation on BIM and project success: case of construction firms

PurposeThe main purpose of this study is to reveal the degree of association between lean, building information modeling (BIM) and construction project success. The study further intends to provide strategies for high and low associations of the factors.Design/methodology/approachLean construction and BIM are two important applications that have recently gained popularity in terms of enhancing project success. Considering this impact, this study investigates the synergy between lean construction and BIM and determines to what extent these two contribute to the success of the projects. As a first step, lean, BIM and project success were examined based on an in-depth literature review. In the second stage, a structural equation model (SEM) was established to reflect the relationship among these three through hypotheses. Then, a questionnaire was designed and administered to the construction professionals experienced in both lean and BIM implementation. The SEM was tested using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS), an SPSS tool.FindingsThe results indicated that lean implementation has a significant and positive impact on BIM implementation and project success. On the other hand, BIM implementation had a lower significant impact on project success than lean implementation construct.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this study can be used by both policymakers and industry practitioners in terms of developing strategies for effectively using both lean and BIM. The researchers can further develop other implementation models to investigate whether these concepts are more effective in increasing project success when used integratively.Originality/valueThis study considers both the impact of lean and BIM on project success through input from construction practitioners working on large projects. This way, the study fosters the use of lean, BIM or lean–BIM together in construction projects to enhance project success.

Transforming Construction Waste into Opportunity: The Role of Recycled Formwork in Eco-Friendly Building Practices

The construction industry is a significant contributor to global waste and environmental degradation, necessitating innovative solutions for sustainable development. In order to better understand how recycled formwork fits into green building methods, this study looks at how it can be used to turn construction waste into useful resources. Because it uses fewer virgin materials and produces less waste than standard formwork, recycled formwork, which is created from repurposed building components, offers a sustainable substitute. This strategy encourages ongoing material use, waste minimization, and resource efficiency by adhering to the circular economy’s tenets. The benefits of recycled formwork are examined from an environmental, economic, and social standpoint in this study. These benefits include reduced landfill waste, resource conservation, and cost savings through improved material reuse. Several case studies demonstrate successful implementations of recycled formwork in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, showcasing its feasibility and advantages. Despite the benefits, challenges such as quality consistency, lack of standardization, and industry acceptance remain. To address these issues, the study recommends continued research and development, education and training for construction professionals, supportive policies and regulations, and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders. By advancing the use of recycled formwork, the construction industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. This research underscores the importance of innovative waste management practices in sustainable construction, offering insights that could drive policy and innovation in the sector.

Lightweight rPPU Eco-block Using Recycled Plastic (rP) and Polyurethane (PU) for Soft Subgrade Soil Stabilisation

The stability of the soil plays a crucial role in the safety and longevity of various civil engineering structures. However, problematic soil conditions, such as clay soil and peat soil, often pose challenges due to their high-water content, poor strength, low bearing capacity, and high compressibility. This research focuses on addressing these challenges by utilizing lightweight fill materials as an effective solution for backfilling applications. The study aims to investigate the characteristics and performance of a novel lightweight fill material using recycled plastic (rP) and polyurethane (PU) known as rPPU ecoblock. The eco-block is mainly fabricated using recycled plastic bottles, recycled plastic packaging, and polyurethane, offering a sustainable approach to waste management and construction materials. To achieve the research objectives, a series of experiments will be conducted. The strength and density of plastic bottles filled with recycled plastic packaging will be analyzed, providing insight into their mechanical properties. Furthermore, the water absorption and buoyancy of the lightweight rPPU eco-block are evaluated, considering its suitability for various construction scenarios. The research findings contribute to the understanding of the physical and mechanical characteristics of the rPPU eco-block, providing valuable information for its potential application as a backfill material. The compressive strength, water absorption, and buoyancy tests conducted per ASTM standards provide quantitative data on the eco-block's performance. The use of lightweight fill materials, particularly the rPPU eco-block, offers benefits such as reduced embankment self-weight, improved stability, and minimized environmental impact. Moreover, the recycling of plasticwaste contributes to the circular economy and aligns with sustainable development goals (SDG): SDG9 and SDG11. The results of this research provide valuable insights for engineers, construction professionals, and stakeholders involved in geotechnical and civil engineering projects.

Establishing the Nexus between Green Human Resource Management and Construction Project Environmental Performance

ABSTRACT Green resource management has been recognized as a strategy to enhance performance across industries. This study empirically examines the relationship between Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) and environmental performance in Ghana’s construction industry. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected via a comprehensive literature review and structured questionnaires. Of the 125 questionnaires distributed to construction professionals using purposive sampling, 97 were retrieved, yielding a 77.6% response rate. Data analysis was conducted using SEM-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS).The analysis identified green induction as the most significant latent variable, followed by green recruitment and green human resource planning. Environmentally friendly construction methods were the most agreed-upon measure for environmental performance. The study found a statistically significant positive relationship between GHRM practices and project environmental performance. It suggests implementing GHRM practices, like green recruitment and induction, through policies to enhance organizational performance. This study contributes to the understanding of GHRM’s impact on the environmental performance of construction projects and provides a foundation for future research to improve human resource management.

Unveiling the Driving Factors of Emerging Trends in the Ghanaian Construction Industry: An Evaluative Analysis of Push and Pull Factors

There is a significant change in the Ghanaian construction sector, driven by the convergence of emerging trends. The study investigated the underlying factors influencing these emerging trends in the Ghanaian construction industry, focusing on both pull and push factors. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining survey data with qualitative analysis, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the drivers shaping the industry's development. The study was conducted within three cities (Cape Coast, Kasoa, and Winneba) in the Central Region of Ghana. Fifteen (15) construction companies were purposively selected based on their interest in technological advancements within the construction ecosystem. Five (5) categories of construction professionals, project managers, quantity surveyors, architects, structural engineers, safety officers, and site supervisors employed by the aforementioned fifteen (15) construction companies were considered for the study. Data collected were analyzed utilizing SPSS software version 20. Push factors highlighted environmental degradation, technological innovation, and infrastructure renewal as significant motivators. Pull factors emphasized the industry's extrinsic motivations, including community development, cultural considerations, and economic growth. The analysis revealed that both push and pull factors play crucial roles in driving the trends within the industry. Qualitative interviews conducted as part of the study provided deeper insights, identifying six key themes: regulatory compliance and market competition, technological advancements, skill development, economic considerations, leadership and strategic vision, and customer demand. These themes underscore the complex relationship between external pressures and internal motivations. Correlation and regression analyses indicated significant relationships between trend recognition and both push and pull factors, emphasizing the interplay between external pressures and aspirational drivers in shaping industry trends. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic forces driving change in the Ghanaian construction sector, offering substantial insights for stakeholders. These insights can help stakeholders navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities for sustainable growth and development. The findings underscore the importance of balancing technological advancements with socio-economic goals to foster a robust and forward-thinking construction industry in Ghana.

Development of Risk Management Model for Research and Development Facilities Construction Project in Johor, Malaysia

The construction industry drives economic growth globally but faces challenges namely outdated practices and inadequate risk management. This research focuses on improving Risk Management in Research and Development (R&D) facilities construction projects, often poorly executed by Project Management Offices (PMOs). Most studies typically address risk identification and assessment, they neglect crucial processes like risk control and monitoring. In pursuit of developing a risk management model for R&D facility construction projects in Johor Industrial Park, Malaysia, conducted a descriptive analysis self-administered questionnaires from professionals in R&D and construction fields with utilizing Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. Additionally, employed Structural Equation Modelling (illustrated through AMOS graphics) to establish a robust and valid model. The outcome of this research reveals a strong, positive, and significant correlation between PMO requirements of Risk Monitoring and Control Practices, which encompass risk reassessment, risk audits, contingency reserves analysis, risk status meetings and Project Success Factors which related to schedule, cost, facilities requirements, and customer satisfaction in the context of RDD facilities construction. This research successfully tackles the research objectives and developed practicable project risk monitoring and control practices of risk management model for R&D facilities construction projects. Therefore, by consistently integrating these practices into their daily project activities, R&D and construction professionals can mitigate risks and address challenges prevalent in the construction industry, contributing to improved project outcomes.

Assessment and analysis of the effects of implementing building information modelling as a lean management tool in construction management

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to investigate and evaluate the impacts of utilising Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction management field. The paper explores how adopting BIM as a lean management tool can improve and expedite a number of processes in building projects, which will ultimately increase project success, cost-effectiveness and efficiency.Design/methodology/approachA comprehensive survey was conducted to investigate how BIM deployment as a lean management tool affected project outcomes. This research involved a structured survey amongst construction professionals and a case study on a real project in Bangladesh to assess the effects of using BIM as a lean management tool. The data collected from 112 respondents were analysed statistically and qualitatively to identify the effect of BIM as a lean management tool. Additionally, several software tools, including Revit, Navisworks, Design Review and BIM 360, were used to compare conventional and BIM-based methods.FindingsThe research findings demonstrate that utilising BIM practices improves the quality and safety of construction in Bangladesh. The “Improving the quality of construction” (RII = 0.732) achieved the highest rank in the questionnaire survey. In addition, the case study represents that the construction industry can benefit from BIM-based project management. The BIM implementation can shorten the design process by over 50% and save up to 1.5 weeks by minimising idling time. By applying BIM, it is possible to avoid a price rise of roughly 2.5% and a delay of about 11.9% of the original contract period.Practical implicationsThe significance of the results goes beyond the direct advantages of the project's achievements. The successful integration of BIM as a lean management tool in Bangladesh's construction sector suggests transformative potential for the industry. The enhanced coordination and decreased errors point to a future where construction projects can achieve higher levels of precision and reliability. The improved efficiency observed implies a more sustainable and cost-effective future for construction projects in the region.Originality/valueThe research provides a unique perspective on the impact of BIM implementation on project outcomes. It includes a comprehensive survey on BIM adoption as a lean management tool, gathering real-world experiences from construction professionals in Bangladesh. The case study explores the practical implications and advantages of implementing BIM in construction projects. By comparing conventional methods with BIM-based approaches and utilising BIM software, the study contributes value to the construction sector.

Key strategies for achieving net-zero carbon buildings and promoting carbon credits in construction markets: A case of an emerging economy

While achieving net-zero carbon buildings (NZCBs) offers significant environmental and economic benefits, particularly in developing economies, research on effective strategies and their interplay with carbon credit systems remains limited. This knowledge gap hinders the widespread adoption of sustainable construction practices and the full potential of carbon markets for incentivizing change. This study aims to bridge this gap by investigating and assessing 15 key strategies for achieving NZCBs and promoting carbon credit implementation. Data from 109 construction professionals in Vietnam was analyzed using several statistical techniques. The results of one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's post-hoc analysis showed no significant differences in the key strategies for promoting carbon credits among key stakeholders (policymakers, contractors, suppliers, and architects/designers). However, distinct variations were identified in the strategies for achieving NZCBs. Furthermore, the findings revealed that the top-priority strategies for NZCBs included: (1) raising awareness, (2) developing project-specific emission reduction roadmaps, and (3) increasing renewable energy utilization. For promoting carbon credits, the prioritized strategies involved: (1) tax reduction, (2) integrating emission reduction criteria into tender documents, and (3) awarding technical points to contractors with emission reduction solutions. Theoretically, this study breaks new ground by simultaneously examining key strategies for achieving NZCBs and carbon credits implementation within the specific context of an emerging economy. Practically, this paper offers valuable recommendations for Vietnamese policymakers and industry leaders, enabling them to navigate a roadmap for a greener and more sustainable built environment, not just in Vietnam but also in other emerging economies facing similar challenges.

UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACTS OF LOCKDOWN AND WORK DISRUPTION: A DEMATEL BASED MODEL

Almost every construction activity has been affected by the impact of COVID-19. Many construction workers were laid off during the Movement Control Order (MCO) due to lockdowns and the closure of all construction sites. In light of these circumstances, this study aims to investigate the impacts of lockdowns and work disruptions due to COVID-19, as well as explore potential strategies to overcome these impacts. Literature review efforts identified a range of potential impacts. Following a process of synthesis, six key impacts were identified for further analysis. The Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique was used to examine the causal relationships between the impacts based on the pairwise rankings of 15 construction professionals in the construction industry. The findings suggest that a shortage of skilled labor (A), insufficient supplies and material delays (E), and project deceleration (D) emerged as the most critical impacts. The study proposes several strategies to mitigate these critical impacts, aiming to assist key stakeholders in both the government and construction sectors in developing effective interventions to address the consequences of lockdown and work disruption during a severe pandemic.

Design for safety training for construction professionals: A digital game-based learning approach

Globally, there is a pressing need to train more construction professionals in Design for Safety (DfS). Conventional instructional methods like video watching and lectures may not effectively meet professionals’ need for training programmes that are relevant to real-life. Digital game-based learning (DGBL) is a proven educational tool, yet its application in professional DfS training remains inadequately explored. This study examined DGBL’s effectiveness using the SafeSim Design game to train construction professionals in DfS. A quasi-experiment was conducted to compare the effect of DGBL with that of online videos covering the same training contents. In total, 246 construction professionals participated in the course and 61 were interviewed or took part in a focus group discussion. We evaluated the change in pre- and post-course quiz scores, assignment scores, questionnaire responses, and qualitative data. We found that DGBL benefitted trainees more equally across different levels of prior experience. The results contribute to the literature by pointing out the importance of occupational background in influencing trainee performance, a factor not well explored in the literature. The results indicate that providing optional scaffolding support and detailed explanations for in-game activities is crucial, as this approach avoids the expertise reversal effect and helps manage trainees’ cognitive load. This study also demonstrated the feasibility of designing and implementing DGBL as an instructional tool for professional training. The above findings inform the development of effective DfS training and contribute to the wider implementation of DfS in construction industry around the world.