Project Criteria Research Articles

Maxpro Designs for Experiments with Multiple Types of Branching and Nested Factors.

Contemporary experiments often involve special factors known as branching factors. The levels of such factors determine the presence of some certain factors, referred to as nested factors. The design criteria for investigating the goodness of such designs are rarely developed. Furthermore, the existing criteria for such designs pay less attention to the space-filling property of low-dimensional projections of the design. The efficiencies of designs yielded by such criteria can markedly decrease when only a few factors are significant. To address this issue, this paper proposes a novel space-filling criterion based on the maximum projection criterion to evaluate the performance of the designs with branching and nested factors. A framework to construct optimal designs under the proposed criterion is also provided. Compared with the existing works, the resulting designs have better space-filling properties in all possible low-dimensional projections. Moreover, our strategy imposes no constraints on run size, level, and type of any factor, demonstrating its broad applicability.

Local People's View of Non-Benefiting from Murat River Projects: Examples of Bingöl, Elazığ and Muş Basins

In Bingöl, Elazığ, and Muş, micro-basin projects have been implemented, but not all local residents have benefited from these initiatives. This study aimed to understand the views and experiences of those locals who did not benefit from the projects, assessing the potential impact on productivity and income. The study was conducted in the provinces of Bingöl, Elazığ, and Muş. Data was gathered between 16-25 August 2021. The primary sources of information were interviews with 168 non-beneficiaries, complemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Findings showed that 75% of participants linked increased productivity to the projects, and all acknowledged an enlarged production area due to project activities. There was no significant difference in production area or income from agricultural sales based on gender or the presence of cash income. However, cash income holders reported higher earnings from both agriculture and livestock. Provincial disparities in income emerged: residents of Bingöl had 2.439 times the income of those in Muş, while Elazığ inhabitants earned 0.882 times less. Men's income surpassed women's by 1.209 times, and those with a history of cash income earned 4.037 times more than those without. Interestingly, owning land or cultivating high-value crops was associated with lesser income. Measures to counteract drought could enhance production areas and, consequently, local incomes. A significant barrier identified was the 20% contribution requirement, preventing some locals from project participation. Recommendations include adjusting project criteria to increase local engagement and benefits. The original value of this article is to reveal the impact of microcatchment projects implemented in Turkey.

Critical success criteria for construction projects: a systematic literature evaluation

PurposeEvaluating project success within the construction industry presents challenges due to the unique characteristics of the sector, the complexity of projects, and the involvement of diverse stakeholders. Conducting a bibliometric analysis, this paper aims to unravel the major research themes and methodologies utilised by researchers in studying the critical success criteria for construction projects, as well as extracting these success criteria.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers systematically searched and screened 95 papers from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. This study conducted research focus parallelship network (RFPN) analysis and keywords co-occurrence network (KCON) analysis using BibExcel and Gephi to cluster the papers, illuminate the relationships among keywords within each cluster, and identify the primary research directions.FindingsUsing the RFPN analysis, this study classified the papers into three distinct clusters: infrastructure and public projects success, risk and knowledge management, and contractors and procurement management. Statistical techniques such as structural equation modelling (SEM) and multi-criteria decision-making methods such as analytic hierarchy process (AHP) have been used to analyse project success in the construction industry.Research limitations/implicationsConsidering the intensified demand for streamlined digital interactions and the increasing emphasis on sustainability and safety performance, construction companies are recommended to allocate greater investments toward the automation and digitisation of their products and processes. Prioritising modular construction and embracing transformative technologies alongside data science is crucial for enabling well-informed decision-making, and enhancing project success.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by conducting a quantitative and systematic evaluation of the literature on project success criteria in the construction industry and uncovering key research areas. It addresses the pressing need to understand the complexities of construction projects amidst evolving industry dynamics and emerging disruptions. Moreover, by highlighting the implications of digital innovations and modular construction, this study urges deeper exploration into their impact on project performance and stakeholder satisfaction. This research sets a comprehensive framework for investigating the interplay between project complexity, technological advancements, and sustainable practices in the construction sector, paving the way for strategic advancements in the field.

Success factors and success criteria for research and R&D projects

The topic literature of the success in research and R&D projects, their success factors, or success criteria is not very extensive. Although a few items on this topic can be found, they often do not distinguish between types of projects in the research area between research projects and R&D projects. The aim of the paper is to present the success factors and success criteria of research and R&D projects and their importance for these types of projects. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following research methods were used: a literature review and a survey analysis using correlations. The research was conducted on a sample of 200 organizations in Poland that run research and R&D projects. Based on the conducted quantitative research, the importance of individual success factors and success criteria of research projects and R&D projects was determined. The research results show that the importance of success factors and criteria for research and R&D projects varies.

Developing success evaluation criteria of building projects for Addis Ababa Ethiopia

Success evaluation using stakeholder-responsive criteria is crucial. Evaluation is vital for achieving project goals as it improves ongoing projects and plans for the future. Effective evaluation requires appropriate criteria and subcriteria. However, choosing narrow, biased, and unrealistic evaluation criteria can lead to subjective results. Moreover, the construction sector often uses inconsistent criteria, causing ineffective project evaluation. This study aims to identify stakeholders' responsive success criteria to improve the management of project success evaluation, addressing the lack of uniformity in industry professionals and researchers' opinions. The draft evaluation criteria and subcriteria were developed after reviewing the literature. The first phase of data was collected from various expert stakeholders through a questionnaire, focus group discussions, and interviews. The second phase of data was collected from 102 respondents, including clients, consultants, contractors, and end users, through a questionnaire and interviews. The data was analyzed using Excel, SPSS, and AMOS software. The success criteria and subcriteria rank were determined using the RII method. A successful evaluation of structural equation models was developed, which passed composite reliability, convergent validity, and discriminate validity tests. The study identifies stakeholder-responsive evaluation seven criteria and twenty-nine subcriteria, ranking them based on industry use. The IRR ranking results show quality, cost, time, stakeholder satisfaction, health and safety, learning and development, and environmental impact as the most frequently used criteria. However, environmental impact and learning and development are less frequently used. The study also creates scientific criteria and subcriteria relations in the SEM model, demonstrating that project success depends on each criterion and subcriterion's success. The model diagram illustrates the hypothesized relationships among variables and establishes the empirical relationship between evaluation criteria and subcriteria. The study introduces stakeholder-responsive criteria for successful project evaluation in the construction industry, addressing the gap in success evaluation. These criteria are effective and holistic, promoting continuous improvement, project success, and future planning. The findings encourage collaboration and contribute to project management knowledge among stakeholders, professionals, academics, and policymakers.

An MCDM analysis of critical success criteria for medium and large construction projects in Australia and New Zealand

PurposeThe global construction industry has a history of poor project success, with evident and frequent overruns in cost and schedule. This industry is a highly interconnected and complex system in which the components, i.e. suppliers, contractors, end-users, and stakeholders, are delicately linked to each other, the community, and the environment. Therefore, defining and measuring project success can be challenging for sponsors, contractors, and the public. To address this issue, this study develops and analyzes a more comprehensive set of success criteria for medium and large construction projects.Design/methodology/approachAfter reviewing the existing literature, this study identified 19 success criteria for medium and large construction projects, which were categorized into five groups. The fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (fuzzy DEMATEL) method was used to gain further insight into the interrelationships between these categories and explain the cause-and-effect relationships among them. Next, this study applied the modified logarithmic least squares method to determine the importance weight of these criteria using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process.Findings28 project managers working in the construction industries in Australia and New Zealand participated in this study. Results suggest that “project efficiency” and “impacts on the project team” are cause criteria that affect “business success,” “impacts on stakeholders,” and “impacts on end-users.” Effective risk management emerged as the most crucial criterion in project efficiency, while customer satisfaction and return on investment are top criteria in “impacts on end-users” and “business success.”Originality/valueAlthough numerous studies have been conducted on project success criteria, multicriteria analyses of success criteria are rare. This paper presents a comprehensive set of success criteria tailored to medium and large construction projects. The aim is to analyze their interrelationships and prioritize them thoroughly, which will aid practitioners in focusing on the most important criteria for achieving higher success rates.

Determination of Tree Type Selection in Park and Garden Construction by the Value Engineering Method: Sinanoba Beach Park Example

In order to achieve efficient projects when producing any product, the cost, quality, and production time need to be optimized. However, this is not always easy to achieve. The budgets of the projects may be exceeded, they may not be completed in the stipulated and committed time, or the products may not be produced with sufficient quality for various reasons. It is vital to analyze the project functions/steps very closely throughout the design phase to ensure that all feasible alternatives are studied and examined, and that the most appropriate alternative is picked for the functions that can meet the project criteria. Value engineering (DM) can be defined as an organized effort to analyze product features, functions and material selections; is designed to solve problems and/or reduce costs while maintaining or improving performance and quality requirements; and performs essential functions at the required quality, reliability, and life-cycle cost. In this study, value engineering was used for the selection of trees needed in the construction of parks. A value engineering team decided that the trees should be coniferous with the prerequisite that they can remain green without shedding their summer-winter leaves and determined which criteria the coniferous trees required to be located in the park should meet. The team members conducted value engineering after determining which trees met these criteria and were subsequently purchased. As a result, the team determined the most appropriate optimum cost solution with the value engineering method to meet all the criteria among the determined alternative tree species

A comprehensive study incorporating structural equation modeling and factor analysis study on the evaluation of performance criteria for infrastructure development projects

Infrastructure development projects are vital for economic growth and societal well-being for every phase of any futuristic growth in the region, city, or country as its backbone in structure development, but their success hinges on effective performance evaluation. The present research employs a thorough methodology that integrates Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Factor Analysis decision-making tools to examine the interdependencies and comparative significance of diverse performance standards for infrastructure development initiatives. Research has been carried out through numerous parameters on sustainable dimensions in terms of usage as service providers and users. The user’s effect in understanding the endogenous and exogenous factors like traffic flow restrictions, road conditions in the existing road network, AQI (Air Quality Index), urbanization, Los (Level of Service) for roads, travelers characteristics, and interconnected parameters. To identify important dimensions and latent elements that have a substantial impact on the overall success of the project, factor analysis will be used concurrently. The research attempts to identify hidden variables and complex interactions that influence project outcomes through this dual-method approach. Key findings will illustrate the significance for stakeholders to be involved in the project planning process, to take the environment into account, and to ensure the project’s financial viability. Additionally, the study finds both competitive and complimentary correlations between various performance metrics, reinforcing the significance of an extensive assessment strategy.

Resolving Disputes Regarding Trust Financing in Islamic Rural Banks, West Java

One form of Islamic banking financing is mudarabah, which is a profit and loss sharing contract between an Islamic bank and a mudarib. This type of contract requires a mutually open attitude between both parties to the advantages and disadvantages of the project undertaken. Therefore, banks should implement a system of monitoring and assessment of project criteria well to avoid risks that may cause bank losses as sahib al-mal. This research uses a mixed method of research, with data collection methods as interviews, questionnaire, observation and document analysis. Which is then analyzed qualitatively by analysis from interviews and observations. For quantitative analysis, factor analysis, regression and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) are conducted. The results of this research are the criteria of projects that need to be supervised by Islamic banking, which are Project Profiles, Payment Guarantee, Project Management, and Prospect project. If the assessment of project criteria is tightened and implemented correctly, mudarabah financing issues can be reduced and resolved.

Causal Model Framework for Nuclear Power Plant Licensing Process

Interests in clean energy revived the nuclear power industry. For the first time in decades, innovative technologies and plant designs are being considered by regulatory agencies. This paper explores a Bayesian Network and AHP approach to causal modeling of the Combined License review process for new nuclear power plants (NPP). Historically lengthy and expensive, NPP licensing is critical to ensuring safe operation of the plants. With this comes a high standard for applicants to reach that can result in multiple revision cycles and long review times.The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's combined license process is examined in this study as an opportunity to predict delays based on project criteria and aid informed decision making. A Bayesian Network combined with Analytic Hierarchy Process inputs is presented to show causality relationships between licensing process steps, plant parameters, and time delays.

Making mutual learning tangible: Mixed-method Delphi as a tool for measuring the convergence of participants’ reciprocal understanding in transdisciplinary processes

This paper proposes an approach to capture mutual learning within transdisciplinary research to develop future-oriented sustainability solutions to land use conflicts. While quality criteria for transdisciplinary research projects are increasingly discussed, there is still ample methodological potential to enable and better understand mutual learning as a key component of transdisciplinarity. Changes in the specific developments of perceptions of the participants are difficult to be tamed and tracked. To address this shortcoming we propose to apply the Delphi method for longitudinal tracking of mutual learning within transdisciplinary research. We present the application of the methodological approach as part of a transdisciplinary project on sustainable land use in the district of Lüneburg (Lower-Saxony, Germany). Evaluation of semi-structured interviews with seven participants translated into a three-round Delphi survey. A concluding round of semi-structured interviews was performed to validate and deepen the findings. The results showcase that the Delphi method can facilitate the operationalization of the convergence of understandings as a relevant outcome of mutual learning within transdisciplinary projects.

Construction noise modelling—A comparison of equipment noise emissions data sources

The accuracy of any environmental noise impact model depends on the quality and application of its input data, typically consisting of at-source emission levels, propagation factors, and receiver characteristics. In the realm of construction noise modelling, this starts with the determination of the noise emission level for each construction activity or item of equipment. This data can be procured from a variety of sources including manufacturer data, standards and guideline documents, or proprietary measurements. This study explores how emission levels from different data sources can be utilized to assess noise impacts against project criteria, and aims to validate the reliability through real-world case studies.

Examining Improvement of the Selection Criteria for Urban Regeneration House Repair Support Projects using Spatial Analysis - Focused on Myeonghak and Seoksu in Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do -

Examining Improvement of the Selection Criteria for Urban Regeneration House Repair Support Projects using Spatial Analysis - Focused on Myeonghak and Seoksu in Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do -

A maximum projective stratification criterion for selecting space-filling designs

Space-filling designs are commonly used in computer experiments. In this paper, we propose a maximum projective stratification criterion for classifying and ranking space-filling designs. We first introduce a stratification metric, which is proved to be a variance decomposition of the frequency representation of a design. Based on this metric, we define the new criterion to sequentially minimize a projective stratification pattern, that quantifies the stratification property of a design when projected into one up to full dimensions. Numerical results show that, when the space-filling property in cluster of projections with respect to dimensions is paid attention on, our criterion is more rational than existing criteria. We further study the intimate connections between our criterion and existing criteria. The extension of this criterion for a design with prime power levels to general levels are also discussed.

TRENDS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS OF RISK MANAGEMENT APPROACHES APPLIED IN MODULAR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

In modular construction, given the different undertakings compared to conventional construction, the latter deems less risky. However, the current industry is faced with malpractices which are loopholes disabling full capacity performance. There is a noticeable lack of studies specifically analyzing the risk management approaches. This study aims to vigorously analyze all risk management approaches applied in previous projects by compiling qualitative and quantitative content for the eased risk assessment of modular projects. By performing a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, 175 documents were finalized and manually analyzed. Synthesis of the literature was carried out to generate graphs, illustrations, and tabularized content, followed by critical explanation for relevant risk management approaches identified according to risk category and project criteria. Risk management approaches for modular construction were showcased in terms of yearly trends, geographic involvement, keywords mostly encountered, and universities and institutions involvement. Classified risk management approaches were tabularized alongside a research domain targeting technical risk management approaches. Future work scopes were suggested with percentage initiations from analyzed studies. This study is a fundamental steppingstone in broadening knowledge on risk management approaches of modular construction and will aid both academicians and practitioners to get direct insights on current trends with project-oriented results showcased.

Development of demolition project hazard index using the possibility approach

Hazard assessment is the most crucial criterion for demolition projects’ safety due to its dynamics and characteristics. This study presents a framework to assess demolition hazards by developing the demolition project hazard index (DPHI), which represents hazard level of the demolition project’s using the possibility approach. The three-level hierarchical framework consisting of eight components and 29 attributes was adopted to evaluate DPHI. The evaluation methodology and weight determination of the hazardous components and their attributes were carried out using fuzzy measures, fuzzy integrals, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with cosine maximization (CM), and Weighted Sum Method (WSM). This study was validated by establishing the correlation between DPHI and safety budget of several demolition projects. In addition, the sensitivity analysis was presented to examine the influence of variation in components’ weights over DPHI. The DPHI will help distinguish the demolition projects based on their hazard level, which allows the stakeholders to understand a more realistic view of the hazard levels and, accordingly, the necessary resources can be assigned to expand the safety management in demolition projects. Application of possibility approach, AHP with CM, and consideration of the three-level hierarchical framework are some of the key contributions and highlights of this study.

Slope stability analysis applied to the 5th section of the Northern Marmara Motorway, İzmit, Türkiye

The Northern Marmara Motorway is a project that aims to alleviate the heavy traffic congestion in the provinces of İstanbul, Tekirdağ, Kocaeli and Adapazarı. Within the 5th section bounded by “the Motorway Port Connection Road” and “İzmit Intersection”, mass movements of slide (Y1, Y2) and flow (Y3) types were observed along the route. This study investigated the causes of mass movements in the Korucu Formation, which consists of sandstone and shale alternation. It also evaluated the support systems to prevent these movements. The analysis considered project criteria, both static and dynamic conditions, types of mass movements and triggering factors. The study identified a combination of factors, including the water table and surface waters, which lead to progressive weathering and mass movement. Stability analyses were conducted for specific right-cut slope sections. These analyses included assessments of soil structure, soil–rock mechanics, engineering geology and geotechnics, as well as examination of field and laboratory test results. These analyses aimed to comprehensively investigate and understand the factors influencing the occurrence of mass movements, particularly for km: 170 + 300–170 + 400, km: 170 + 640 and km: 175 + 297–175 + 463. At Y1, pile retaining walls are proposed using Slide2 software to reduce the slope angle from 22° to 17°. At Y2, a translational landslide occurred with recommendations for the adjustment of the slope angle and protective measures considering the disturbance factors (D = 0.3 and D = 0.5). Y3 was a flow-type movement that required protection of the slope with riprap due to the different geological conditions and disturbance factors. This study underlines the need for a comprehensive geological analysis and structural measures to ensure safety in these areas.

Ecological Significance of Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in Headwater Streams

Headwater streams are the starting points of river ecosystems, that consist of an array of unique microhabitats. Most of these stream segments are first-order streams and these aquatic ecosystems provide habitats for many macroinvertebrates including arthropods, mollusks, annelids, nematodes, and turbellarians. These species play a significant role in maintaining the ecological integrity of the river ecosystem. Specifically, their feeding habits of scraping, collecting, shuddering, and predating make a significant contribution to maintaining stable food webs within the stream ecosystems. These macroinvertebrates are highly sensitive to environmental changes and consequently, they have been used as indicators of environmental quality. Although the aquatic macroinvertebrates play a crucial role in headwater streams, they face stresses caused either by nature itself or man leading to their extinction on certain occasions. Global warming, acidification, deforestation, forest fires, industrialization, intensive agriculture, and livestock farming practices have been identified as potential stresses behind the extinction and biodiversity losses of macroinvertebrates in headwater streams. Therefore, the abundance and distribution of macroinvertebrates in headwater streams need to be critically considered in developing criteria for development projects, agricultural practices, and other environmental management strategies to protect and conserve these unique environmental creatures.

Russiaʼs Low Carbon Development Policy:Opportunities and Constraints in the New Economicand Political Reality

Russia's model of economic development, based on hydrocarbon exports, initially determined the country's scepticism toward low-carbon transformation. However, the growing negative effects of climate change, manifesting in increased natural disasters (floods, fires, extreme heat), as well as extraterritorial measures imposed by major trading partners, which could potentially limit market access, led to a transformation of the perceived climate change challenge and the adoption of a range of policy documents and regulations to articulate and implement a low-carbon development policy in Russia. The targets and measures have been criticized for lacking ambition and rigour, but still pushed the processes without which the economy would continue to face the negative effects of climate change and increasing constraints in global markets. The geopolitical crisis of 2022 and widening sanctions have significantly constrained Russia’s ability to meet climate targets. Despite this, mechanisms to promote decarbonization in key sectors continue to be developed. In addition, opportunities for cooperation with some major non-western economies have not closed. This article analyzes Russia's strategic documents and key low-carbon development policies, including the activities of major companies. It provides perspective on the role of forest climate projects as well as their drawbacks and risks, the Sakhalin experiment to achieve carbon neutrality in the region and how it is implemented through concrete initiatives, the prospects and limitations of the hydrogen industry, the challenges and tools for decarbonizing transport, state of play in the carbon capture, use and storage technologies, the criteria for green projects, and the situation on the green bond market. It also identifies two important areas which gain importance as the climate transition scales up: nuclear power and the extraction and production of critical raw materials. Based on the analysis, recommendations are given on promising areas of cooperation between Russia and its BRICS and EAEU partners.

Ex ante required rates of return and related factors in Indonesian PPP infrastructure projects

PurposeThis paper delves into the ex ante rates of return demanded by the private sector in Indonesian public–private partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects and the manifold factors emanating from project attributes that can influence these rates.Design/methodology/approachThis paper analyzes feasibility studies of 37 PPP projects across different sectors. The studies were carefully selected based on relevance, completeness and validity of data. The analysis uses statistical techniques, including Levene’s tests, t-tests, ANOVA tests, Cohen’s effect size and Pearson correlations, to explore differences in cost of capital and excess returns across various attributes.FindingsBased on the statistical analysis, no significant difference exists between the excess return of 200 basis points (bps) and the equity excess return of 0 bps. This suggests that the eligibility criteria for PPP projects require an internal rate of return (IRR) equal to the weighted average cost of capital plus 200 bps or an equity IRR equal to the cost of equity. The variations in the tested variables among diverse project attributes do not exhibit statistically significant disparities, even though specific attributes display moderate to high effect sizes.Originality/valueThis paper represents one of the first attempts to examine the rates of return demanded by the private sector in the context of Indonesian PPP projects. It comprehensively explores the factors that influence these rates, drawing on insights derived from feasibility studies.