Collaborative Engagement Research Articles

Principles for Sustainable Integration of BIM and Digital Twin Technologies in Industrial Infrastructure

As industries evolve towards greater digitalization, integrating Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twin technologies presents a unique opportunity to enhance sustainability in industrial infrastructure. This paper formulates a comprehensive set of principles aimed at guiding the sustainable integration of these technologies within the context of modern industrial facilities, often referred to as “Factories of the Future”. The principles are designed to address critical sustainability challenges, including minimizing environmental impact, optimizing resource efficiency, and ensuring long-term resilience. Through a detailed examination of lifecycle management, data interoperability, and collaborative stakeholder engagement, this work provides a strategic framework for leveraging digital technologies to achieve sustainability goals. The principles outlined in this paper not only promote greener industrial practices but also pave the way for innovation in the sustainable development of industrial infrastructure. This framework is intended to serve as a foundation for future research and practical application, supporting the global shift towards more sustainable industrial operations.

Effectiveness of Student Teams: The Role of Team Personality Diversity

In current educational landscapes, group work has emerged as a cornerstone of pedagogical strategies, offering students opportunities to cultivate essential skills for future professional endeavors. Central to the success of collaborative efforts lies the intricate interplay of team dynamics, with team personality diversity emerging as a significant factor influencing team effectiveness. Building upon existing research highlighting the critical role of team personality in driving team effectiveness (Kozlowski and Bell, 2003), this study delves into the nuanced relationship between team personality diversity, team processes and emergent states, and collaborative outcomes within student teams. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of team dynamics, this research adopts a comprehensive approach, drawing upon established theoretical frameworks, such as the input-process-output model (Hackman, 1987; Ilgen et al, 2005), to elucidate the mechanisms through which team personality diversity influences team effectiveness. Through a thoroughly designed two-wave methodology and a group-level analytical approach, data were collected from 57 student teams enrolled in undergraduate and graduate courses across diverse academic disciplines during semester 2 of 2022/2023. Our findings reveal that emotional stability diversity within teams exerts a significant yet indirect influence on team satisfaction through its impact on communication openness. Specifically, greater emotional stability diversity leads to diminished communication openness, subsequently leading to reduced levels of team satisfaction. This intricate chain of effects underscores the importance of managing team personality diversity to foster open communication and ultimately enhance satisfaction among team members. While our results align with established theoretical underpinnings, they also prompt critical reflections on team interdependence and the duration of collaborative engagements within academic settings. Consequently, we advocate for further exploration into the potential of team personality diversity within student teams, with an emphasis on longitudinal studies to capture the temporal dynamics of collaborative interactions. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on team dynamics in educational settings, offering valuable insights for educators and practitioners seeking to optimize student experiences, enhance group learning outcomes, and prepare students for their future careers.

HCI Teaching and Learning Model Using Studio-Based Learning

This research explores Studio-based Learning (SBL) within Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) subjects, focusing on the crucial elements required in the design of maker spaces to enhance user experience (UX) design education. As HCI becomes increasingly complex and interdisciplinary, traditional classroom settings often fail to provide the required experiential learning environment for certain subjects. Our study examines various subjects in the discipline, highlighting diverse interactivity requirements and the potential of Studio-based Learning to effectively address students' and staff’s needs. We analyse the impact of studio settings on the learning outcomes and expectations of students, especially in fostering creativity, collaboration, and hands-on engagement. Our research findings indicate that studio-based classrooms significantly improve student learning experiences in interactive and practical subjects, although effective planning around space and time constraints can impede its full implementation.

Case report - Survival after ECPR for adolescent arrhythmogenic arrest - ECPELLA (ECMO with Impella®)

Abstract Background The combined therapy with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) and Impella (ECPella) has been shown to improve survival in acute cardiogenic shock (CS) in adult patient. Only 3 paediatric cases have been reported in a multicentre study. Case summary We present our case, the first described to our knowledge in the UK, of a 15 year old adolescent of Afro-Caribbean descent, weight 75kg, who received E-CPR (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary-resuscitation) and ECPella implantation. The patient suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home, his mother called for an ambulance who arrived within 10 minutes and commenced life support with a LUCAS device. He received 3 doses of adrenaline and 3 desynchronised shocks for an underlying rhythm of ventricular fibrillation (VF) after which ROSC was achieved. He was then transferred to his local hospital where he had another VF arrest with successful cardioversion and was then transferred to our institution where on arrival he had another VF arrest and received E-CPR (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary-resuscitation) and ECPella implantation under the institutional adult shock program within 3 hours of in-hospital cardiac arrest. Following weaning from ECPella the patient underwent cardiac and brain MRI and serial echocardiograms with complete recovery of ventricular function. After implantation of cardiac defibrillator, he was discharged home without neurological sequelae. He remains asymptomatic from a cardiac perspective, with a normal cardiac examination and with no neurological sequelae at 2 year follow up. Discussion This is the first case description of ECPella use in a child in the United Kingdom and highlighted the importance of timely institution of E-CPR on survival benefit in fatal CS. The outcome success of post-resuscitation ECPella strategy in this adolescent was through collaborative interprofessional engagement of multiple supra-specialists within acute cardiology and critical care across paediatric and adult services and alignment with the institutional adult shock program.

Integrating real-world entrepreneurship with international learning: insights from a blended intensive programme

Purpose This study aims to illustrate how a university can leverage a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) to act as a boundary spanner in international collaborations and multi-stakeholder value co-creation. This research explores the potential of a reimagined study abroad program to connect disparate entrepreneurial ecosystems and enhance the university’s role in fostering international collaborative projects. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a case study methodology to investigate an Erasmus+ BIP aimed at integrating real-world entrepreneurship with international learning. Data were collected through surveys, interviews and participant observation, providing a robust analysis of how such programs can bridge entrepreneurial ecosystems internationally. Findings The study shows how a blended study-abroad program not only enhances students’ learning outcomes but also can bridge local and international entrepreneurial ecosystems. By facilitating rich exchanges and value co-creation among students, faculty, industry and government stakeholders, the blended format of the program—integrating virtual and in-person elements—proved crucial in maintaining continuity and engagement amid global disruptions. The study highlights the university’s pivotal role both as a facilitator of global business education and international collaboration. Research limitations/implications The study’s findings are based on a single BIP, so they may not apply to all similar programs worldwide. To understand the broader applicability and impact across different contexts, future research should include diverse BIPs from various regions and sectors. Practical implications This research highlights the multifaceted benefits of blended intensive study-abroad programs. The collaborative model serves as a template for enhancing the practical value of higher education globally. Originality/value The study provides insights into the potential of blended intensive programs for universities to extend their role as boundary-spanners through a unique model for international collaboration and multi-stakeholder engagement. This approach addresses the challenges of global disruptions and sets a precedent for future educational practices in international business.

Paramedicine educators’ identity needs and impediments to professional emergence: A multiphase mixed-methods participatory approach

This research delves into how identity-needs and philosophies of paramedicine educators influence theoretical advancement and praxis in higher education. It examines the perceptions of paramedicine academics, their roles and the transitional challenges when moving from clinical practice to academia. It explores the potential of transformative pedagogy in fostering social consciousness, justice, and innovation. Challenges and benefits of a constructivist approach to paramedicine education and future-orientation is assessed. Employing a multiphase mixed-methods participatory approach, researchers reached consensus on the guided themes (Phase 1) for staff collaborative engagement (Phase 2) during the inaugural ‘Paramedicine Educators Forum’, which featured participation of academic leaders and staff from four universities and one jurisdictional ambulance service. The study unveils the intricate tapestry of paramedicine educators' identities and philosophies and their impact on theoretical advancements and practical applications in higher education. Conversations revolved around defining the role of paramedics in academia, the potential of transformative pedagogy, and the balance between producing competent paramedics whilst nurturing criticality. Discussions also addressed the shortcomings of current undergraduate degrees in preparing students for technological advancements and the potential for extended degree programs. The findings underscore the need to adapt paramedicine education to meet the evolving demands of the profession, with paramedicine educators playing a leading role in this transformation. These insights may be instructive in providing guidance for educational policies and practices that shape the future of paramedicine education and may have transferability for other allied health professions.

Equitable education and social impacts: Examining the learning theories that influence educators' pedagogical practices

High-quality, equitable, and inclusive education is essential for both individual and societal advancement. Educators play a crucial role in enhancing educational standards through effective pedagogical practices. This study investigates the influence of learning theories on educators' pedagogical strategies. A survey was conducted with 1845 educators from various educational levels in Brunei Darussalam. While educators demonstrated an understanding of behaviorism and cognitive theories, the results revealed a pronounced preference for constructivism. This approach allows educators to relate prior learning experiences, foster collaborative engagement, and provide constructive feedback. Furthermore, the results indicated that demographic factors, including gender, age, subject area, and administrative duties, affected educators’ pedagogical beliefs. The results emphasize the need for tailored, inclusive, and subject-specific professional development for educators to improve educational standards and promote inclusivity.

Evaluation of a public health workplace staff psychosocial risk assessment and wellbeing initiative

Abstract Adverse psychosocial work environments can have a detrimental effect on staff wellbeing causing chronic stress leading to burnout. Despite legislation mandating regular risk assessments, only one third of workplaces assess psychosocial risks. A 2020 European report identified one of the main barriers being a reluctance to talk openly about psychosocial issues. This paper describes an evaluation of a staff psychosocial risk assessment and wellbeing initiative in a Public Health Department in Ireland. The initiative commenced in October 2022 during a period of major health service organisational change. Informed by positive organisational psychology conceptual frameworks, guided by the European Psychosocial risk assessment framework (PRIMA-EF) and utilising the HSE Work Positive (CI) survey tool it was possible to constructively identify and categorise psychosocial risks across the Public Health team. In the evaluation, a mixed methods approach was used based on Donabedian’s structures, processes and outcomes overarching framework and Nielsen’s Model of Process Evaluation Framework. The first three iterative quality improvement cycles of the intervention were reviewed. The evaluation demonstrated that all of Nielson’s three indicators for a successful organisational level staff wellbeing intervention had been met: there was evidence of improvement in both working conditions and staff wellbeing; iterative quality improvement cycles including appreciative inquiry staff collaborative engagement ensured staff views and key learning was captured; new organisational structures within the Department enabled the sustainability of this process. The evaluation indicates that the staff psychosocial risk assessment process is beneficial for staff wellbeing and that the methods used are appropriate. The resources used in this process continue to be readily available within the health service organisation. The evaluation supports continuation of this process in its present form. Key messages • This evaluation supports staff psychosocial risk assessment and mitigation processes and provides a framework for healthcare managers to implement such processes and comply with legislation. • This evaluation indicates that effective and sustainable collaborative staff engagement can be achieved using a positive focus which builds on team strengths and harnesses collective wisdom.

Navigating co-creation dynamics: lessons from Denmark

Abstract Knud will delve into the adaptation of co-creation processes within the Danish context. Drawing from extensive experience Knud will explore collaborative initiatives with both the private/civil sector and municipalities, offering insights into the intricacies of cross-sectoral cooperation. Delegates will gain valuable perspectives on navigating diverse stakeholders and fostering effective partnerships in co-creation endeavours. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Denmark’s innovative approach to collaborative problem-solving and community engagement.

7.G. Round table: Primary prevention and management of NCDs – the added value of joint actions across Europe

Abstract Two ambitious European joint action projects, funded through the EU4Health programme, are ongoing to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and related risk factors in Europe, targeting both individual and societal levels. Together, these projects aim to scale up effective prevention and management strategies, strengthen public health policies and promote equitable and sustainable healthcare systems across Europe. The Joint Action on CARdiovascular Diseases and DIabetes (JACARDI), with 21 participating countries and a total budget of over €66 million, is focusing on enhancing the implementation of evidence-based innovative pilot projects across the entire patient journey. This includes efforts to improve prevention, early diagnosis, and proactive management of NCDs. The Joint Action Prevent Non-Communicable Diseases (JA PreventNCD), with 25 participating countries and a total budget of over €95 million, particularly aims to enhance joint capacities of countries for implementing, scaling up and evaluating prevention policies and actions at various levels. These projects represent complementary responses to calls for action in Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan and the Healthier Together - EU NCD Initiative, with JA PreventNCD emphasizing primary prevention and policy while JACARDI focuses on secondary prevention and health systems strengthening. Both projects will generate new policy-relevant evidence based on implementation, monitoring and scaling-up of best and innovative practices and policies across Europe. The projects share a focus on equity, diversity, scalability and sustainability, while avoiding fragmentation and duplication of actions. Under the EU4Health programme, launched to strengthen European health collaboration in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the EU has recently invested over €200 million in public health initiatives, with additional investments from national authorities participating in the joint actions. With this new wave of funding, real population impact should be anticipated, but what can we realistically expect to be the outcomes and what are the criteria for success? In this round table discussion 1) these two joint action projects will be presented, highlighting their innovative aspects; 2) views on the added value and potential in cross-national collaborations for prevention and management of NCDs will be debated, and 3) how synergies will be leveraged for maximum impact will be explored. Panelists will share their perspectives on the projects’ potential to change the public health landscape in Europe. Workshop participants will subsequently be encouraged to engage in the discussion with the objective that views and experiences are exchanged, opportunities for collaboration and engagement are shared and energy is mobilized to harness the benefits of such large-scale policy-relevant collaborations. Key messages • Synergies and collaboration to drive policy development and foster increased capacity are the pillars to build a healthier Europe. • Two large-scale Joint Actions drive impact by highlighting innovative NCD prevention strategies and fostering collaborative engagement.

Research on the Influence of AI Technology and Optimization Strategy on the Chinese Manufacturing Enterprises about Digital Transformation

Abstract: The rapid evolution of the digital economy has fostered a favorable environment for the growth of the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, catalyzing a transformative shift across diverse sectors. AI technology is driving the digital transformation landscape, contributing to the emergence of a novel economic framework characterized by enhanced unity, fairness, and operational efficiency. Particularly in China's manufacturing domain, substantial governmental support has propelled the widespread adoption of AI, thereby facilitating significant strides towards industrial modernization. However, despite the promising trajectory, notable challenges persist. These include the scarcity of AI talent, concerns regarding data security such as leakage, and the ongoing refinement of compatibility with existing systems. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted approach. Efforts should prioritize bolstering personnel training initiatives in AI-related domains through collaborative engagements with industry, universities, and research institutes. This cooperative endeavor can nurture a skilled workforce adept at navigating the complexities of AI implementation. Moreover, stringent measures must be implemented to safeguard sensitive data, including robust encryption protocols, secure computing practices, and meticulous access controls to mitigate the risks of data breaches. Furthermore, promoting standardization processes and embracing data format conversion tools are critical steps towards enhancing interoperability across disparate systems. In conclusion, this discourse underscores the pivotal role of AI in driving the digital transformation journey of Chinese manufacturing enterprises. By addressing pertinent challenges and embracing strategic initiatives, these enterprises can fortify their resilience, navigate future complexities, and achieve sustainable development in the digital era.

From outdated to outstanding: an institution’s journey in reforming the dental materials science curriculum and lessons learned

BackgroundThe Dental Materials Science (DMS) course within Malaysian undergraduate dental education has traditionally been taught in isolation, with a relatively stagnant delivery mode. Recent shifts in national dental competency standards have necessitated substantial reform in the DMS curriculum. This study aims to outline the journey of a local dental institute in developing and implementing a competency-based DMS curriculum.MethodsA faculty curriculum task force was established to oversee the curriculum reform process. The reform was guided by a “bottom-up” approach using the five-step curriculum reform model: (1). Curriculum mapping, (2). Comprehensive needs assessment, (3). Clear learning objectives and outcomes, (4). Curriculum development and implementation, and (5). Continuous evaluation and improvement.ResultsStep 1 revealed the need to reduce content repetition and improve alignment with the new competency standards. Step 2 identified the need to include advanced materials, integrate theoretical and clinical aspects, and enhance teaching methods. The new curriculum included 25 relevant topics. Step 3 established three course learning outcomes, while Step 4 integrated DMS content horizontally and vertically across the curriculum, introduced innovative teaching methods, and diversified assessment methods. Step 5 ensured ongoing curriculum monitoring, with both short-term and long-term evaluations planned.ConclusionThe curriculum reform process represents a significant advancement in dental materials science while addressing challenges and aligning the curriculum with national standards. Ongoing evaluation, adaptability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and international engagement are essential for further improvements. This journey serves as a valuable reference for educators seeking to update their DMS curricula.

Wearables for the Bladder: Stakeholder Perspectives on Moving Multiple Sclerosis Bladder Dysfunction Interventions Into the 21st Century.

Bladder dysfunction (BD) is common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and can reduce participation in daily life. Detecting BD early allows for effective prevention-focused treatments such as pelvic floor physical therapy. Pairing neurotechnology with patient-reported outcomes to remotely measure BD could significantly improve monitoring and treatment of BD. Therefore, we describe the process and findings of stakeholder engagement from a human-centered design process to assemble a wearables for the bladder (WeB) kit. Four people with MS with varying BD severity, and 5 MS clinical/research experts had 4 virtual meetings. Commercially available bladder tools were graded for ability to evaluate, monitor, or treat BD. The Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (utility, usability, feasibility) was used for evaluation. Scoring was performed individually and as a group. Of the 11 devices, 5 obtained mean scores of greater than 6 of 10 for likability, usability, and device utility. The 2 highest scoring (9/10) devices were selected for the pilot. One device measures bladder urine levels, reporting the number/frequency of voids/leaks; the other guides pelvic floor exercises by pairing games on an app with biofeedback from intravaginal sensors. We uncovered critical differences in experts' and patients' appreciation of the tools, and the collaborative engagement led to substantial revisions of initial tool scores. This process underscores the critical role of stakeholder engagement in the selection of digital tools, especially in sensitive domains like pelvic function. Ongoing clinical validation of the selected tools will yield a validated, user-friendly WeB kit that is able to fill gaps in our ability to evaluate BD treatments in people with MS, ultimately reducing the impact of BD on quality of life.

Exploring sustainable food supply chain management practices to enhance food security

Background: The food industry faces longstanding challenges in meeting sustainability practices within its supply chain, often prioritising commercial obligations and profit motives. However, there is a growing recognition of the critical role that sustainable food supply chain management (SFSCM) practices play in enhancing food security.Objectives: This study aims to establish the significance of SFSCM practices in enhancing food security. Furthermore, the study explores approaches to reduce challenges against implementation of SFSCM practices.Method: The study employed a qualitative approach and used stratified and purposive sampling techniques to interview 22 participants from a population of 9 gatekeeper institutions within the Zimbabwean food industry.Results: The findings highlighted several essential SFSCM practices covering waste management, logistics optimisation, water and energy conservation, employing qualified individuals, carbon emission reduction, corporate social responsibility, cost reduction, pricing efficiency, fair food distribution and continuous consumer taste surveys. Approaches to reduce SFSCM implementation challenges were also identified, and these include stakeholder communication plans, capacity building programmes, integrating sustainability into mission statements, budget allocation, lobbying for government support, and fostering collaborative engagements. Open information sharing was also emphasised.Conclusion: It is concluded that the adoption of identified SFSCM practices by food producers, intermediaries, suppliers, consumers and other stakeholders can significantly enhance food security and minimise hunger in nations.Contribution: This article contributes to the understanding of addressing SFSCM implementation challenges and provides valuable insights into the importance of sustainable practices in improving food security within the Zimbabwean food industry and the world at large.

The Effect of Gamification Implementation on Collaboration Skills, Engagement, and Learning Achievement of Students in Class X SMA XYZ

This study explores the impact of gamification on students' collaboration skills, engagement, and learning achievement in the context of 21st-century education. Utilizing an experimental method, the research was conducted to observe the effects of implementing gamification, particularly through the Quizizz application, in classroom learning. The findings revealed that students in the experimental group, who experienced gamified learning, showed significant improvement in collaboration skills, engagement, and academic achievement compared to the control group. The application of gamification provided an interactive and engaging learning environment that promoted active participation and collaboration among students. The use of gamification as a learning strategy not only enhances students' soft skills but also contributes positively to their overall academic performance. These results suggest that gamification is an effective tool in modern educational settings, providing valuable insights for educators and policymakers to enhance learning outcomes.

Grounded governance: Cultivating social justice through community-engaged learning with PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ (Blossoming Place)

By deepening student relationships to local governance systems, they become better equipped to envision and enact the worlds they seek to create. This paper discusses a community-engaged learning initiative facilitated by a University of Victoria instructor that centered on the theme of “Grounded Governance” to anchor student learning about governance and social justice theories, movements and practices. The overall approach draws inspiration from bell hooks who explains the value and significance of engaged learning. Specifically, this paper discusses the experience of teaching place-based learning through engagement with Indigenous-led ecological restoration efforts, including collaboration with PEPAKEṈ HÁUTW̱ (Blossoming Place). The author reflects on community site visits with a W̱SÁNEĆ nonprofit organization to learn about ecological restoration and decolonial governance. This grounded approach to teaching is inspired by Indigenous-led place-based learning. As a collaborative effort between the Studies in Social Justice program, the School of Public Administration and community partners, this pedagogy aims to integrate community-engaged learning more deeply into the study of public administration. Doing so in practice emphasizes relationship-building with local Indigenous-led community organizations while supporting student learning objectives by teaching about social justice through collaborative and meaningful public engagement.

Partnership, Collaboration, and Community Engagement: Reflections on Applied Repatriation in a Small Museum

Partnership, Collaboration, and Community Engagement: Reflections on Applied Repatriation in a Small Museum

Relational Job Crafting and Task Performance: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement

This study investigates the mediating role of work engagement on the effect of relational job crafting on task performance among employees in the public sector of Ghana. Relational job crafting involves offers significant benefits to public sector employees by enhancing their performance through collaborative engagement. Thus, when employees actively adjust their social work environment, they can reduce (increase) work-related stress (sense of purpose) through fostering stronger relationships, which also improve well-being and performance. The research employed a closed-ended questionnaire and conducted a cross-sectional online survey. The study’s target population consists of 17,163 public sector employees in Cape Coast Metropolis, out of which 456 were randomly selected to complete the survey. The sample size was estimated using the Adam, (2020) approach for selecting samples in a quantitative study. Data collection took place from January to June 2023, and the analysis was conducted utilising the R version of partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The study revealed an average yet statistically significant influence of relational job crafting on both work engagement and task performance. Thus, relational job crafting had a significant positive effect on work engagement (β = 0.502, p < 0.01) and task performance (β = 0.293, p < 0.01), with work engagement further affecting task performance significantly (β = 0.475, p < 0.01). The significant positive relationship shows that the increase in both relational job crafting and work engagement among Ghanaian public sector employees further improves their performance in the various tasks assigned to them. Also, despite the direct relationship between work engagement and relational job crafting and task performance, it was further revealed that the latter further mediate the relationship among the former and task performance. Thus, it was found that work engagement serves as a complementary partial mediator in the relationship between relational job crafting and task performance (β = 0.238, SE = 0.034, 95% CI = 0.177, 0.309). These findings support the initial hypotheses established for the study. In terms of policy recommendations, this study emphasises the importance of fostering both work engagement and relational crafting to enhance task performance in the Ghanaian public sector. It suggests that employers, including government bodies, directors, and chief executive officers of public institutions, as well as policymakers, including labour unions, should implement measures across various sectors of public services to strengthen employee relations and increase engagement, ultimately enhancing task performance

Adaptive Strategies and Sustainable Innovations of Chinese Contractors in the Belt and Road Initiative: A Social Network and Supply Chain Integration Perspective

As global economic integration and rapid technological advancements transform international business, international engineering contracting has become essential for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). This paper investigates the significant impact of China’s strategic initiatives, notably the “Going Global” strategy and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), on the operational practices of Chinese enterprises involved in overseas investments. Central to this transformation is the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, which emphasizes the integration of supply chain management and stakeholder collaboration to enhance performance in international EPC projects and underscores the crucial role of these elements in promoting sustainability. Incorporating insights from social network data analysis, this study reveals that contractors collaborating with various stakeholders—such as owners/consulting engineers, domestic and foreign customs departments, and group headquarters/design parties—exhibit a high degree of similarity in personnel profiles. This suggests that the internal organizational structure and personnel allocation of contractors could be optimized to enhance operational efficiency, aligning with the collaborative patterns identified. This study addresses a critical research gap by exploring how effective supply chain management and collaborative stakeholder engagement within multinational EPC projects contribute to sustainable outcomes. Employing advanced social network analysis software, the research examines the complex interactions among stakeholders and their influence on procurement dynamics. Findings indicate that strong relational networks and strategic collaborations significantly enhance procurement efficiency and project success, underscoring the importance of supply chain integration. Ultimately, integrating supply chain management principles into the EPC model not only offers innovative perspectives for advancing sustainability in international projects but also provides actionable insights for improving project outcomes within the BRI framework. This research underscores the pivotal role of supply chain organization and stakeholder cooperation in achieving sustainability objectives, thereby enriching the discourse on sustainable enterprise operation and supply chain management in the context of global initiatives.

Transcending disciplinary boundaries: Nature based solutions (NbSs) for Caribbean coastal resilience

Caribbean Small Island Developing States are experiencing multiple interconnected crises including susceptibility to natural hazards, increased vulnerability to climate change, biodiversity loss and reduced accessibility to development funding. Nature-based Solutions can provide an integrated approach to boost Caribbean coastal resilience as they are economic and practical solutions that capably balance competing interests. This study used a participatory method, Group Model Building, to engage stakeholders across varying disciplines and levels of decision-making to collaboratively identify the underlying causes of low Nature-based Solutions uptake regionally and potential intervention mechanisms. Six overarching factors contributed to low adoption, including data and knowledge limitations, a propensity towards hard engineering, low collaborative engagement, and limited implementation capacity. Some areas identified for intervention were comprehensive data collection, reducing uncertainty surrounding the implementation of Nature-based Solutions, effective collaboration, using case studies and best practices, and knowledge translation and dissemination. The outputs demonstrated a critical role for the engineer in mainstreaming Nature-based Solutions through adopting a systematic and holistic design approach. Concomitant to this is the need for engineers to operate successfully within transdisciplinary teams to enhance transformative communication skills and ensure that solutions not only minimize environmental impact but also support the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services.