Consulting Engineers Research Articles

Influence of Risk Transfer on Implementation of Kerra Road Construction Projects between 2019 and 2023 in Migori County, Kenya

The implementation of Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) construction projects faces high levels of risk, but these risks are often not adequately addressed, which is reflected in the low quality of work, as well as cost and time overruns. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of risk transfer on the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County, Kenya. Implementation was measured as a function of project completion within the set time frame and staying within budget. This study was anchored on project implementation theory, which provides a foundation for examining the influence of the variables under study. A concurrent triangulation research design was used, as it incorporates both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the research study. The target population for the study consisted of 92 contractors, 459 constituency roads committee (CRC) members, and 2 consultant engineers. Using a sampling size formula, a total of 39 contractors and 193 CRC members were selected through simple random sampling. Two (2) consultant engineers for Migori County were selected using purposive sampling. Primary data was obtained through self-administered questionnaires to contractors and CRC members, while Key Informant Interviews (KII) were conducted with the consultant engineers. The validity of the research instruments was ensured through piloting and expert evaluation. Inferential statistics, specifically Multiple Linear Regression, were applied to determine the influence of risk transfer strategies on the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects, by testing the hypotheses for the study. Statistical significance was assessed at p < 0.05. Qualitative data obtained from the interviews were analyzed using content analysis. The study found that risk transfer strategies are mostly employed during the construction of roads in Migori County (M = 3.77, SD = 0.86) and accounted for 70.0% of the variation in the implementation of the projects. The study concluded that improvement in risk transfer strategies leads to an increase in the implementation of KeRRA road construction projects in Migori County. The study recommends that, to ensure risk transfer is properly undertaken, a system of risk reporting and remedial actions should be activated to ensure a smooth and effective road project implementation process. Additionally, KeRRA should ensure that all manpower and machinery used in road construction are insured and properly certified in accordance with occupational safety and health standards and policies.

Development of cable-climbing robot with inspection function

Abstract The primary purpose of this study is to research and develop a crawler-type cable climbing robot to meet the demand of Sinotech Engineering Consultants, Ltd, using excellent structural design to meet the current practical requirements of the application of cable diameter varies greatly and simplify the operation process, improve the efficiency of the safety inspection of bridge cables and reduce the related risks, and through numerical analysis and the finite element method to optimize the design. The design is mainly divided into three parts: vibration measurement mechanism, robot control system, and cable climbing mechanism. The vibration measurement mechanism adopts the micro-vibration measurement method, in which a 3-axis piezoelectric accelerometer is tightly attached to the cable to measure the resonance frequency of the cable and detect the cable force. The robot control system adopts the fourth-generation Raspberry Pi as the central controller, with a ground remote control system and a backup system to prevent the robot from losing control due to the failure of the central system. The drive unit adopts a stepping motor with a planetary gearbox to drive the crawler. The cable-climbing mechanism uses a compression device to keep the robot’s track close to the cable to achieve a maximum speed of 0.04 m/s and to cross an obstacle limit of 9 mm over a 60-200 mm vertical or horizontal cable. The tracked cable-climbing robot is tested to be installed and operated by a single person and is adaptable to different cable environments with rapid deployment and operation.

International legal regulation of the conclusion of agreements on the transfer of technologies and the protection of intellectual property rights during the international transfer of technologies

The article is devoted to the study of international legal regulation of the conclusion of agreements on the transfer of technologies and the protection of intellectual property rights during the international transfer of technologies. The focus is on the activities of international state organizations of the UN system (there is studied the source base of the Body of the UN General Assembly – UNCTAD, the UN Economic Commission for Europe – UNECE, the UN Commission on International Trade Rights – UNCITRAL, special attention is paid to the activities in the development of various aspects of technology transfer of the World IntellectualProperty Organization – WIPO; the main aspects of technology transfer of the TRIPS Agreement of the World Trade Organization – WTO are being defined, as well as the ones of the documents of other international organizations in this field: the World Bank, the International Federation of Consulting Engineers – FIDIC, the European Development Fund. In particular, the author examines main principles and characteristic features of the key documents of these international organizations, as well as approaches to the regulation of certain aspects of technology transfer in international law, that have changed over time.

Implementation of Knowledge Management at PT Multi Phi Beta to Prevent Knowledge Loss

PT Multi Phi Beta, as an engineering consultancy, faces challenges in a competitive industry that demands operational efficiency. The company encounters high employee turnover due to the short-term nature of its projects, leading to a significant risk of knowledge loss. This research aims to evaluate the current state of knowledge management readiness at PT Multi Phi Beta, identify gaps in knowledge management implementation, and propose improvements to mitigate these knowledge loss risks and enhance overall efficiency. The primary method used to obtain data is quantitative, collected through questionnaires. To enrich the primary data, qualitative data is gathered through semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that PT Multi Phi Beta is at the initiation level of KM readiness, recognizing the need for knowledge management but not yet fully integrating KM practices. To mitigate knowledge loss, the company should capture critical knowledge from transitioning employees, enhance its KM vision and mission, and establish a dedicated KM department. Standardized processes for managing knowledge, conducting after-action reviews, knowledge cafés, and formal mentoring programs are essential. Additionally, providing integrated knowledge repositories and implementing a rewards and recognition program will encourage knowledge sharing and strengthen the company’s KM efforts.

Research on Refined Management and Project Risk Control Strategies in Whole Process Engineering Consultation

Whole Process Engineering Consultation (WPEC) plays an increasingly vital role in modern engineering project management. It not only encompasses the entire project lifecycle from planning and design to implementation and operation but also significantly enhances project efficiency, reduces costs, and mitigates risks. As the complexity of engineering projects grows, refined management emerges as a crucial method for achieving efficient project management. This paper explores the application of refined management in WPEC and analyzes its role in project risk control through real-case studies. By delving into the principles of refined management, management tools, and risk control strategies, this study proposes an integrated approach to optimize project management processes and improve project success rates. Additionally, it discusses the impact of emerging technologies on refined management and risk control, providing insights into future development trends. The aim is to offer theoretical support and practical guidance for engineering project management, ensuring efficient management and risk control.

Navigating Discontinuity: Applying the Disruptive Scenario Approach in Engineering Consultancy

Navigating Discontinuity: Applying the Disruptive Scenario Approach in Engineering Consultancy

Investigating the Usage Effectiveness of BIM in Engineering Consulting and Contracting Firms: A Case Study of Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

Investigating the Usage Effectiveness of BIM in Engineering Consulting and Contracting Firms: A Case Study of Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia

Managing construction project risks in turbulent times: a stakeholders perspective

PurposeThe construction industry is unique but with uncertainties. This is because of the operating environment. This intricacy gives rise to several construction risks and is compounded in developing countries’ turbulent times. If not managed, these risks enhanced in turbulent times could negatively impact the Nigerian construction projects’ cost, time, quality, and performance. Hence, this study investigated the perceived encumbrances facing construction risk management techniques and identified measures to promote sustainable-based construction risk management in turbulent times.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers adopted a qualitative approach and achieved saturation with 28 participants. The participants were government policymakers, quantity surveyors in government ministries/agencies/departments, consultant engineers, consultant architects, consultant and contracting quantity surveyors, and construction contractors knowledgeable about construction risk management. The research employed a thematic analysis for the study’s data.FindingsFindings identified turbulent times related to the industry and major techniques for managing construction project risks in the Nigerian construction industry. It revealed lax adoption and implementation of practices. Also, the study identified major encumbrances facing construction risk and proffered initiatives that would promote sustainable-based construction risk management in turbulent times.Originality/valueThis study investigates encumbrances and suggests measures to promote construction project risk management in turbulent times in Nigeria. Also, the study contributes to the literature’s paucity, uncovering perceived encumbrances and evolving organisations’ management styles to imbed sustainable-based risk management practices by qualitative research design method.

Preface

This WSBE24 Conference Proceedings comprise the selected papers presented at the 2024 World Sustainable Built Environment Conference (WSBE24). The world conference, held on a triennial basis, is the premier event of the Sustainable Built Environment (SBE) Conference Series managed by the SBE Partners and Permanent Co-hosts – consisting of the International Initiative for a Sustainable Built Environment (iiSBE), the International Council of Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB), the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). WSBE24 was conducted online from 12-14 June 2024, under the overarching theme of “Innovation Pathways & Partnerships for Sustainable Built and Urban Environments”. This conference not only facilitated a diverse array of talks and discussions but also ensured wide accessibility by publishing its proceedings as an open access document, with both the whole proceedings and the individual papers available online. The video recordings of the presentations are also available online in another platform. This Proceedings include the articles that underpin the conference’s scientific program. Each submission underwent a double-blind peer-review process. A globally represented Scientific Committee and the Editors carefully reviewed initial abstracts and full paper submissions, ensuring that only those meeting the necessary scientific standards were presented at the conference and included in these proceedings. The breadth of topics covered in these papers is vast, spanning current trends and innovations, challenges and solutions, and empirical findings across the fields of science, industry, policy, and governance. A major focus was placed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the construction, building and real estate sector, reflecting discussions in line with those at the Buildings and Climate Global Forum held in Paris in March 2024, organized by UNEP and the French Government, amongst others. This collection reflects the field’s most pressing challenges and emerging solutions. Papers examine greenhouse gas reduction strategies, the integration of climate action and resource conservation, and the transition toward a circular economy. Tools for environmental performance assessment – including the expanding role of lifecycle assessment (LCA) in design and management workflows, especially in a digital environment (e.g., BIM) – feature prominently. Questions and innovative research and solutions range from specific materials and building physics in individual buildings to broad urban development strategies, always guided by the principles of sustainable development. The continuing needs for enhanced educational and capability development – which is also an emerging subject within the Global Alliance for Building and Construction (GlobalABC) – and expanded scope of SBE issues and impacts on people and communities and economics, and vice versa, in future editions are highlighted. The first principles concept of sustainability continues to be a suitable umbrella for topics such as circularity, resilience and regenerative design. List of Reviewers is available in this Pdf.

Perspectives for the application of the provisions on indemnity established by FIDIC Silver Book in the field of construction contracts in Russia

The object of the study is the institute of compensation for property losses, fixed in one of the standard contracts of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) - the Silver Book. The FIDIC Silver Book is the most interesting for providing a universal contract base in Russia, as a task set by the Government of the Russian Federation in the Strategy for Exporting Services until 2025. It is in this proforma that the main conditions of the EPC are reflected: design work, purchase of materials, construction work. One of the tools common in the Anglo-Saxon legal system is indemnity, which has appeared relatively recently in domestic civil law. By allowing you to manage the risks of construction projects, this institution is attractive to investors and parties to a construction contract. The authors investigate the provisions on indemnity, fixed in the FIDIC Silver Book, to establish the possibility of their application in the field of construction contracts in the territory of the Russian Federation. The authors used such methods as: analysis, synthesis, comparative law, deduction, induction. The scientific novelty of the study is due to the fact that there are few works devoted to the applicability of the terms of FIDIC contracts in Russia, and there are practically no studies on the applicability of the conditions for compensation of losses fixed in them. However, in order to achieve the goals set by the Service Export Strategy until 2025, it is necessary to find out whether there are significant contradictions between the terms of FIDIC contracts and the norms of national legislation that prevent their application in Russia. The most interesting are the prospects for applying the provisions on compensation for property losses fixed in standard contracts, which are quite attractive both for the parties to the contract and for investors. In this regard, a special contribution of the authors to the study of the topic is the establishment of the applicability in Russia of the provisions on compensation for property losses fixed in the FIDIC Silver Book. Within the framework of this scientific work, it was revealed that most of the analyzed provisions do not contradict the mandatory norms of Russian law.

ASSESSMENT ON THE FACTORS INFLUENCING INEFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AMONG STAKEHOLDERS IN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

Communication serves as a foundation for the planning and development of infrastructure projects. Because the infrastructure projects are complex and involve multiple stakeholders, ineffective communication could significantly negatively impact the whole development process. Hence, this paper aims to determine the significant factors that lead to ineffective communication among project participants in infrastructure development in Malaysia and explore initiatives to address the problems. The research data were gathered via responses from a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews with Grade G7 contractors and consultant engineers who were involved in infrastructure development. The study starts by distributing questionnaires to the target population to determine the significant factors influencing the ineffectiveness of communication among the project participants. At the second stage, 28 industry practitioners were interviewed to gain their deeper insight on the initiatives to address the problems. The result revealed seven significant factors contributing to the communication ineffectiveness in infrastructure development in Malaysia. There were eight initiatives recommended to be taken by project participants to address the problems, namely, to channel the site problems to the right and authorized person/party, encourage a cooperative attitude towards achieving the project goal, avoid confrontational attitudes, provide timely feedback, create a harmonious and effective working environment, promote a no-blame culture, encourage respect for others, and keep written communication at all times. The outcome of the study could mitigate the impacts of ineffective communication in infrastructure planning and development by helping to ensure that all the participants involved are on the same page and aligned with project goals.

Transmission Mechanism of Influencing Factors in the Promotion and Application of Whole-Process Engineering Consulting

As a project construction organization model, whole-process engineering consulting (WPEC) is currently being promoted in China’s engineering consulting industry. However, various factors create numerous obstacles that hinder this model’s effective promotion and application. One essential task is to deeply analyze the transmission mechanism of the influencing factors in the promotion and application of WPEC, and explore effective pathways for promoting and applying this model. This paper systematically organizes and summarizes 10 primary influencing factors and 38 secondary influencing factors for promoting WPEC. Using the complex network analysis method, a network of influencing factors for promoting WPEC, a network structure, and motif analyses are conducted. The results show that the influencing factors have a complex transmission mechanism, and complex network analysis can reveal the laws of their construction and their causes. This paper provides a systematic basis and theoretical support for the effective formulation of policies related to the promotion and application of WPEC.

Risk Management Considerations for Civil Engineering Consultancy Services in Guyana

Risk Management Considerations for Civil Engineering Consultancy Services in Guyana

The Application of Bridge Monitoring Projects Exploiting Time Series Data of Structural Health Monitoring

Since the first attempts of Structural Health Monitoring the Vienna Consulting Engineers (VCE) have been involved to advance the BRIMOS technology which offers a wide range of services to engineers and operators of infrastructure networks. Over the last decade the dynamic behavior of hundreds of structures has been measured and evaluated. However, the current practice in Structural Health Monitoring is still a case to case approach which needs a lot of experience for proper interpretation and assessment of the investigated objects. The integration of new technologies is wanted to support and automate the evaluation process as well as increase the objectivity within the assessment routines. This paper shall indicate the need for innovate methods and tools from a user’s point of view and gives a short insight to the workflow and infrastructure of BRIMOS. The efforts which are undertaken within the BRIMOS infrastructure show the approach towards the application of data mining instruments to benefit for future and also from past monitoring projects. Datamining, Time Series Analysis, Knowledge Base, Structural Health Monitoring

Focusing on diversity in a Multicultural employee group—The case of an Engineering Consultancy in London

Despite the increasing research on work diversity, diversity itself remains an ambivalent term due to the various and in some cases even conflicting ways in which scholars conceptualize its nature (Janssens & Zanoni, 2005). A Literature Review of the relevant literature illustrates four main streams. The first one considers diversity as a concept with static nature and treats it as a measurable variable (Cox, 1993) while the second addresses the dynamic, socially constructed nature of diversity (Barinaga, 2007). A third stream of research explores both the dynamic and multiple nature of workgroup diversity while the last school acknowledges the dynamic, shifting relationship between the diversity categories focusing on issues of inequality and discrimination (Holvino, 2010).The aim of this study is to contribute to the current diversity research by exploring from an a posteriori direction how the employees in a multicultural group perceive their group diversity during their everyday working life. In doing so, a research is conducted in engineering consultancy, to explore how the employees actively construct their workgroup diversity. Above research, drawing on the assumption that reality is social construction (Berger & Luckmann, 1966) shows diversity and identity as socially constructed concepts that should be identified from an a posteriori direction. The research questions guiding the narrative analysis shows that members’ differentiation is dynamic and changes over time during their everyday project group life.

Improving Activity Requirements in Open Plan Office Spaces by Using Different Acoustic Design Elements: Engineering Studies and Consultation Center as a Case Study

Improving Activity Requirements in Open Plan Office Spaces by Using Different Acoustic Design Elements: Engineering Studies and Consultation Center as a Case Study

Factors affecting intention to adopt green building practices: a journey towards meeting sustainable goals

Purpose The construction industry and its activities harmfully affect the environment. Hence, adopting green building (GRB) practices can be helpful in achieving sustainable development goals. Therefore, this study aims to identify the factors affecting the intention to adopt GRB practices by extending theory of planned behavior (TPB). Design/methodology/approach Using non-probability purposive sampling technique, data was gathered from consultant and contractor engineers in the construction industry through a questionnaire. The analysis was done using partial least square-structural equation modeling technique on a useful sample of 290. Findings Findings revealed that the core constructs of TPB [i.e. attitude (AT), subjective norms (SUBN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC)] significantly affect the intention to adopt GRB practices. Moreover, government support and knowledge of green practices (KNGP) were found to be critical influencing factors on AT, SUBNs and PBC. Lastly, the findings confirmed that environmental concerns (ENC) play as a moderating between SUBN and intention to adopt GRB practices, as well as AT and intention to adopt GRB practices. Practical implications This study contributes to existing knowledge on GRB, offering evidence base for policy choices regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation in the construction industry. Originality/value This study provides insights from the perspective of a developing economy and confirms the applicability of TPB in the adoption of GRB practices. Moreover, this study confirms the moderation role of ENC in between TPB constructs and intention to GRB that is not tested earlier in the context of GRB. This study also confirms that government sustainable support positively affects PBC, and KNGP significantly affects SUBNs.

The saga of struggling diversity in the 21st century: a qualitative study

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the barriers that act as a hindrance and are the reason behind the struggles for the successful practice of diversity and inclusion. It also provides suggestions that organisations across the Asian region can adopt to have a conducive work environment to flourish diversity and inclusion.Design/methodology/approachQualitative data were collected from 21 in-depth semi-structured interviews, where the male and female interviewee ratio was 6:4. The interviewees were diversity and inclusion leaders, diversity and inclusion consultants and human resources (HR) experts from Asian countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, UAE, Singapore, Bangladesh and Nepal. The interviewees belonged to varied industries, including information technology, automobile, manufacturing, engineering, logistics and independent consultants. Every interview recorded was transcribed, and an inductive content analysis technique was used using NVivo. Broad themes and several antecedents were identified which hinder the successful practice of diversity and inclusion.FindingsThere exists a patriarchal mindset in society as the main reason; that is why Asian countries are finding it difficult and are struggling to embrace diversity and inclusion successfully. There is a lack of awareness amongst managers about how inclusive gender diversity impacts the company’s financial status. Reports show that companies that have female board members have better profit margins in comparison to those that do not.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was conducted within one industry setting, the service sector; therefore, the findings may not apply to other industries because of the different organisational cultures and HR policies.Practical implicationsThis study offers managerial implications that can help the organisation foster and embrace diversity and inclusion by overcoming the barriers.Social implicationsThere should be fair and equitable inclusivity of females in the workplace. Female employees should be heard without biases and discrimination and allowed to speak up with equity. Females should not be seen differently during organisational decision-making, participation and empowerment.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the few to explore the challenges faced by Asian region organisations to embrace diversity and inclusion by empirical evidence. The study shows how the Asian region struggles to go beyond gender diversity and move away from patriarchal hegemony, which is the study’s unique contribution.

Establishing a Management System and the Role of Civil Engineering Consultants for Early-Stage Geothermal Development in Japan

Establishing a Management System and the Role of Civil Engineering Consultants for Early-Stage Geothermal Development in Japan

Analysis on the Value of Photovoltaic Power Plant Engineering Consultant under Constraint Conditions

Analysis on the Value of Photovoltaic Power Plant Engineering Consultant under Constraint Conditions