Construction Projects Research Articles

Digitalized Document Management System for Construction Claims and Disputes to Enhance the Smoothness of Advanced Construction Projects Using the Building Information Modeling Integrated Framework

Digitalized Document Management System for Construction Claims and Disputes to Enhance the Smoothness of Advanced Construction Projects Using the Building Information Modeling Integrated Framework

A Circus in Tulare

This article presents the actions of Representative Alfred James Elliott in relation to the wartime incarceration of Japanese Americans. As a member of the West Coast congressional delegation, Elliott was one of the most vocal advocates for forcibly expelling Japanese Americans from California. During the war, Elliott worked with local business leaders to pressure the military to extend the exclusion zone to the eastern parts of Tulare and Kern counties—sites that were initially categorized by the Army as places where Japanese Americans could resettle in order to avoid camp. When the Army began construction of a camp in his home district of Tulare County, Elliott turned the construction project into a political football by accusing the Army of wasteful spending. As the war progressed and Japanese Americans eventually returned to the West Coast, Elliott waged his own unsuccessful campaign to keep Japanese Americans out of Tulare and Kern counties. Based on rigorous archival research, this article offers a new perspective on the government’s handling of the wartime incarceration of Japanese Americans by presenting the perspective of a member of Congress.

Assessing the critical success factors for the sustainable construction project management of Saudi Arabia

ABSTRACT The construction sector in Saudi Arabia faces significant challenges in achieving sustainability in project management, encompassing activities from design to project completion. This research aims to identify and evaluate the critical success factors (CSFs) essential for sustainable construction project management in Saudi Arabia. Through an extensive literature review, 24 CSFs were identified, reflecting the sector’s complex dynamics. A detailed survey of industry experts assessed the importance of these factors using a Likert scale, with further analysis conducted through the Relative Importance Index (RII) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The CSFs were categorized into five groups: human resources and stakeholder requirements, sustainable project delivery and stakeholder engagement, strategic planning and alignment, project management practices and leadership, and compliance and governance. Stakeholders emphasized the adoption of modern tools and processes to overcome challenges and improve project outcomes. The study highlighted five key CSFs: effective strategic planning, adherence to anti-corruption measures, efficient resource allocation, project managers’ expertise, and robust policy enforcement. These factors are pivotal in advancing sustainable construction project management in Saudi Arabia. The study provides a structured framework for evaluating CSFs and offers practical insights to stakeholders for promoting sustainability within the construction sector, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.

Enhanced Risk-Based Quality Control for Hydraulic Engineering Construction Projects Considering the Risk-Influencing Mechanism

Enhanced Risk-Based Quality Control for Hydraulic Engineering Construction Projects Considering the Risk-Influencing Mechanism

IoT-Based Metal Detector Robot with Wireless Surveillance

Abstract: This project presents the design and development of an IoT-based metal detector robot equipped with wireless surveillance capabilities. The robot is designed to autonomously navigate its environment while detecting metallic objects underground, with real-time monitoring provided through a wireless camera system. The core components of the system include a metal detector sensor, an ESP8266 NodeMCU for wireless communication, an L298 motor driver for controlling the robot’s movement, and a surveillance camera for live video streaming. The system is powered by 3.7V battery cells, ensuring mobility and operational autonomy.The metal detector sensor scans for metallic objects, and upon detection, an alert is generated. Simultaneously, a wireless camera transmits real-time footage, allowing remote monitoring and control via a web interface or mobile device. The robot's movement is controlled through a second ESP8266 module, enabling wireless command inputs for navigation.This robot is envisioned for use in security applications, such as detecting landmines or hazardous metallic objects in sensitive areas, as well as for archaeological and construction projects. The integration of IoT technology enhances the robot’s operational range and effectiveness, providing a scalable solution for remote metal detection and surveillance.The integration of IoT technology significantly enhances the system's operational efficiency and range, enabling seamless remote control and monitoring. This innovation not only improves safety in hazardous conditions but also increases the effectiveness of metal detection and surveillance tasks in diverse environments

Analyzing Cost Overrun Risks in Construction Projects: A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective Using Fuzzy Group Decision-Making and K-Means Clustering

Analyzing Cost Overrun Risks in Construction Projects: A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective Using Fuzzy Group Decision-Making and K-Means Clustering

Systematic review of Lean Construction: an approach to sustainability and efficiency in construction management

Systematic review of Lean Construction: an approach to sustainability and efficiency in construction management

Supply chain risks for SMEs in construction projects: a structured literature review and research agenda

PurposeWhilst there has been much research examining risk management in construction supply chains, there is a relative dearth of knowledge concerning small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in this context. SMEs are considered vulnerable economic agents due to their financial constraints and reduced viability compared to large firms. This study aims to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive review, identifying key challenges in the research and generating a future research agenda.Design/methodology/approachA structured literature review was conducted in this study, resulting in the identification of 106 articles that relate to construction SME risks. Thematic analysis was then employed to determine the supply chain risk themes. Additionally, VOSviewer was employed to depict content frequency and, most recently, trends based on the timeline.FindingsThis paper uncovers eight distinct supply chain risks pertinent to construction SMEs, arranging these into three themes from the standpoint of supply chain risk management. Moreover, it identifies six gaps in the existing body of research on construction SMEs and puts forth prospective research directions and questions to address each of these identified gaps.Originality/valueThe practical significance of this study is to provide SMEs in the construction industry with a comprehensive framework for identifying and categorizing risks related to management and strategy, operations and processes and sustainability. With this framework, SMEs can systematically assess potential risks at all stages of a project.

A Fuzzy Approach to Developing Scales for Performance Levels of Healthcare Construction Projects in Hong Kong

A Fuzzy Approach to Developing Scales for Performance Levels of Healthcare Construction Projects in Hong Kong

Optimizing Railway Construction Project through Phase-Based Planning

This paper explores the integration of phase-based planning in the development and maintenance of railway infrastructure, with a specific focus on the Katni railway project. The study emphasizes the importance of strategic planning in optimizing project timelines, cost efficiency, and safety, particularly in large-scale railway projects. The research delves into the challenges faced in railway infrastructure development, including complexities in construction, maintenance, and resource allocation, and addresses how phase-based planning methodologies can provide effective solutions. Key aspects of railway infrastructure, such as the construction of ballasted track systems, the overhead catenary system (OHE), and maintenance practices, are examined to demonstrate their role in ensuring long-term performance and sustainability. The methodology section outlines advanced techniques in planning and categorization of maintenance activities such as routine, preventive, and predictive maintenance, along with the critical factors impacting railway track conditions. The phase-based decision support system is explored, highlighting its potential to streamline planning, mitigate risks, and ensure on-time project completion without accidents. The optimization of railway construction phases, through technical, economic, and constrained optimization models, is discussed in detail, showcasing the integration of operations research to enhance efficiency. The results of the study focus on the Katni Railway project, offering insights into the advantages of strategic planning, comprehensive execution, financial performance, and resource allocation based on phase-based planning methodologies

Influence mechanisms of digital construction organizations’ capabilities on performance: evidence from SEM and fsQCA

PurposeWith the rise of digital construction, using organizational capabilities to improve project performance in a turbulent environment has become critical for the high-quality development of the construction industry. However, the complex relationships among them remain unclear. Therefore, this study explores these linear relationships under the digital construction mode and reveals the driving mechanism of multi-factor linkage on project performance.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 263 project participants in digital construction projects in China using a questionnaire. Hypothesis testing was conducted using partial least square structural equation modeling, and the differentiated patterns of project performance formation were revealed through fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.FindingsOrganizational information technology, innovation, coordination, integration management and emergency management capabilities improve project performance. Environmental turbulence is a positive moderator between coordination capabilities and project performance, while other capabilities do not align with environmental turbulence. The research obtained five equivalent configurations for achieving high project performance, such as “capability layout” and “internal driven,” and two paths that lead to non-high project performance. Finally, in contrast to existing studies, we discovered the outstanding contribution of emergency management capabilities to project performance and the auxiliary effect of information technology capabilities.Originality/valueThis study innovatively integrates a dimensional framework of construction project organizations’ capabilities under a digital construction mode and extends the organizational capabilities to the specific and operational capability dimension level. Furthermore, this study opens the “black box” of the influence of organizational capabilities on project performance in environmental turbulence and reveals the differentiated and equivalent configurations for the formation of project performance. The study broadens the theoretical perspective of organizational capabilities on project performance research in the digital context and provides practical enlightenment for guiding the capability configuration of construction project organizations in a turbulent environment. The study broadens the theoretical perspective of organizational capabilities on project performance research in the digital context and provides practical enlightenment for guiding the capability configuration of construction project organizations in a turbulent environment.

Investigating the relationship between organizational mindset orientation and project performance of large organizations in the Ghanaian construction industry

ABSTRACT This study investigates the linkage between organizational mind-set and its effect on construction project performance by examining the underlying attributes that define organizational mind-set, predominant indicators for measuring project performance and the relationship between organizational mind-set and project performance. A quantitative research strategy embedded within a positivist paradigm and deductive reasoning was adopted. An online survey was used to collect data from 128 construction organizations in Ghana, with a total of 107 retrieved. Data was analyzed using mean score ranking, one sample t-test and correlation analysis. Findings revealed that, of the 20 assessed organizational growth mind-set attributes, only 10 were implemented within organizations. Conversely, of the 20 assessed fixed mind-set attributes, none were deemed significant. The findings also revealed significant positive relationships between: project performance and seven of the 20 growth attributes; and project performance and five of the 20 fixed attributes. These findings shed light on the significance of often overlooked factors like organizational mind-set that can propel positive project outcomes. The study recommends construction firms prioritize both growth and fixed organizational mind-set perspectives to ensure positive project outcomes. Training of employees to tune their minds toward a growth organizational mind-set is critical to ensure projects are executed seamlessly.

Assessment of the challenges of integrating cyber-physical systems in Nigerian construction

PurposeThe internet’s revolutionary impact on communication, information access and business transactions exemplifies how technology can reshape human behaviour. Similarly, cyber-physical systems (CPSs) hold immense potential to transform our interaction and control of the physical environment. This study investigates the challenges hindering the adoption of CPSs in Nigeria’s construction industry, aiming to pave the way for a more sustainable future in construction.Design/methodology/approachThis study examined challenges related to CPSs in Nigerian sustainable construction projects. Data were gathered through a literature review and a questionnaire survey of Lagos-based construction professionals (architects, quantity surveyors, engineers and builders). Statistical methods were used to analyse the data. Mean and standard deviation determined respondents’ opinions’ central tendency and variability. The data’s suitability for factor analysis was confirmed through Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) and Bartlett’s sphericity tests, indicating strong correlations between variables. Factor analysis subsequently identified key challenges hindering CPSs implementation in Nigerian construction.FindingsThe mean and standard deviation analysis findings indicated that the most significant challenges of CPSs for sustainable construction projects in Nigeria are lack of awareness, inadequate public–private partnership, professional complacencies, data overload and lack of capital. In addition, the analysis was also conducted using factor analysis, which includes five groupings: financial inhibition, management barrier, geopolitical inhibition, national security and lack of awareness.Originality/valueThis study recommended that the challenges listed in this study should be considered and worked on through financial, political and professional support of CPSs for sustainable construction projects, such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) programmes and national awareness programmes.

Application of Machine Learning in Estimating California Bearing Ratio from Soil Index Properties in Kenya

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is an important civil and transportation engineering test. It is normally carried out to assess soil's bearing capacity and strength for road pavement and foundation construction. The test, however, is both time-consuming and labour-intensive, resulting in significant delays during the construction process, ultimately leading to financial losses due to the high cost typically associated with construction projects. As a potential solution to this issue, an investigation is conducted into the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques for accurately forecasting CBR values. Three models were used in the study, namely, the random forest model, linear regression model, and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model. These models were employed to forecast CBR values based on several soil index properties. These properties included particle size distribution (i.e., percentage of soil passing through the sieve of diameter 0.425mm and 0.075mm), liquid limit (LL), plasticity index (PI), maximum dry density (MDD), plastic limit (PL), and optimum moisture content (OMC). A dataset containing these soil properties and corresponding CBR values for soils was obtained from the University of Nairobi civil engineering laboratory. The models were then trained on 80% of the data and tested on 20%. Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), and Coefficient of determination (R²) were used to evaluate the accuracy of the predictions. The findings showed that XGBoost was the most accurate model with the lowest MAE, MSE, and RMSE, and the highest R², making it the preferred model for predicting CBR

Decoding ISO 19650 Through Process Modelling for Information Management and Stakeholder Communication in BIM

Poor information management is predominant in construction projects and tends to have a negative effect on project outcomes. The use of technology, in particular building information modelling (BIM), has been promoted to address information management issues. However, the adoption of BIM is fraught with challenges, such as a lack of standardisation and difficulties in effectively adopting standards such as ISO 19650. This research aims to deepen knowledge and improve the management of BIM standards, particularly in using ISO 19650 to collaboratively deliver construction projects by applying process modelling techniques. By employing a mixed-methods approach that combines document analysis and qualitative interviews, this study critically examines the principles and requirements of ISO 19650 and their practical implications. It focuses on how process modelling can clarify complex concepts and improve information management. The findings indicate that process modelling significantly aids in comprehending ISO 19650, making its intricate concepts more accessible to multidisciplinary teams, enhancing stakeholder communication, improving project execution efficiency, and reducing errors and rework. Furthermore, this research emphasises the need to distinguish ISO 19650-derived elements from those adapted from other sources to ensure transparency and integrity in project management practices. The main implications of this study are two-fold. From a research perspective, it contributes to the academic discourse by addressing a critical gap in the literature, which has largely focused on BIM technology implementation rather than the processes and workflows necessary for effective standard adoption. From a practical perspective, this study promotes transparency and integrity in project management practices, enabling organisations to adopt and adhere to standardised practices more effectively in collaborative environments.

P-1336. Building Connections: Rise in Construction Projects correlated with New Cluster of Infantile Botulism in North Texas

Abstract Background Regional clustering of infantile botulism is well documented in throughout the United States. We report a new cluster of cases in Northeast Texas. Methods We performed a single center retrospective chart review of all patients with suspected and confirmed infant botulism admitted to Children’s Medical Center Dallas from January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2023. Environmental conditions near each patient’s home prior to hospitalization were analyzed. County level data on annual birth, population, and death rates was collected from The United States Census Bureau. Construction permit data from Tyler, Texas was analyzed. Results 46 infants with suspected infant botulism presented to care and received botulism immune globulin from 2010-2023. 3 infants were excluded due to alternative neurologic diagnosis. Features of cohort (N=43) without alternative diagnosis included in Table 1. 39 infants without honey exposure were included in environmental analysis: Group 1: 2010-2016 (N=8 infants), and Group 2: 2017-2023 (N=31 infants). The mean number of yearly residential construction permits issued (235.0 vs 352.7, p=0.01) and projects finalized (208.6 vs 333.5, p=0.01) increased from 2010-2016 to 2017-2022. The mean number of yearly commercial construction permits issued (40.1.0 vs 14.5, p=< 0.01) and projects finalized (36.9 vs 17.5, p=0.01) decreased between 2010-2016 as compared to 2017-2022. A sudden cessation of infantile botulism cases occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic that appears to coincide with delays in construction projects being complete. There were no significant differences between the 2 cohorts in environmental changes near the patient’s home address: temperature, precipitation, wind speed or direction, soil moisture, or drought index (Table 2). Specific humidity was significantly higher (p=0.01) in the 30-60 days before admission for patients presenting 2017-2023 as compared to 2010-2016 (-0.53 g/kg vs 0.70 g/kg). Conclusion Changes in local construction patterns are associated with a notable increase in infantile botulism cases in Northeast Texas over the past 14 years. Changes in environmental conditions do not appear to play a large role in this increasing case count. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Determinants of construction project delay and its effect on project beneficiaries: evidence from the Gurage Zone, Ethiopia

Construction projects play a vital role in improving socio-economic development through infrastructure provision, job creation, and facilitation of economic growth. However, delays in the implementation of these projects are a common problem that works against these benefits. In Ethiopia in general, and the Gurage zone in particular, project delays have become a significant problem that needs a careful investigation of its root causes and effective policy responses. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of project delay and assess its socioeconomic effect on project beneficiaries in the Gurage zone, of Central Ethiopia. While regression analysis and relative importance index were used to identify project delay determinants, Key informant interviews (KII) and focus group discussions (FGD) were used to assess its socioeconomic effect on project beneficiaries. Poorly defined project scope, project control, and management, an incorrect estimate of project cost and schedule, bad economic conditions, political instability, lack of construction inputs, and inadequate communication have contributed to project delays. Project delays limit transport access, and increase unemployment, migration, disputes among project stakeholders, congestion on public service delivery, and health and health-related problems. Before approving a project, the soundness of the feasibility study should be properly checked. Project monitoring, follow-up, and control should be improved as a project implementation strategy. Beyond cost and time overruns, project sponsors consider the broader social and economic implications of project delays. This study contributes valuable insights that can inform project planning and management practices to mitigate delays and maximize socio-economic benefits for project beneficiaries.

International Environmental Law and Mechanisms for Its Integration into the Legal Regulation System of Transnational Construction Projects

International Environmental Law and Mechanisms for Its Integration into the Legal Regulation System of Transnational Construction Projects

Applicability of lean techniques and processes on improving sustainability in construction projects

PurposeThe construction industry is known for its complexity, poor performance and impact on the environment. This study investigates the applicability of lean techniques and processes on improving sustainability in construction projects. A total of ten key lean construction (LC) tools are analyzed for impact on 15 sustainability categories and 78 subcategories. Results are summarized for usability across the three sustainability pillars.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review (SLR) of articles published over the last 10 years (2014–2023) on lean and sustainable construction is conducted involving planning, identifying, screening, analyzing and reporting phases. Selected 41 articles are reviewed in detail. For reporting, the applicability of LC tools is critically analyzed and ranked according to impact on sustainability over two project stages.FindingsLiterature suggests that the impact of LC on economic waste reduction or social impact is likely to have an impact on environmental sustainability as well. Overall, the top LC tools for improving sustainability in construction include value stream mapping (VSM), just-in-time (JIT) and 5S. The applicability of the LC tools is more prevalent in the “construction phase” of construction projects than the “planning and design” phase.Originality/valueThis study analyzed ten lean tools through SLR and evaluated their impact on construction sustainability. By assessing the challenges and benefits associated with LC tools, the outcomes of the study support the adoption of LC by stakeholders. The paper also proposed a practical implementation strategy for LC tools to enhance sustainable construction.

Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement in Building Information Modelling-Enabled Construction: A Review of Critical Success Factors in Design and Planning Phases

This scoping literature review examines critical success factors (CSFs) in the design and planning phases of BIM-enabled construction projects, focusing on integrating sustainability practices across the quadruple bottom line: profit, people, planet, and process. By introducing the novel ‘Process’ pillar, this study aims to bridge critical gaps in sustainability research, emphasising technology-driven practices and mapping 62 CSFs from 31 studies to specific stakeholder roles, and focuses on early project phases in which decisions have the most significant impact on long-term outcomes. The findings highlight how early-phase decisions, guided by the QBL framework, can optimise project outcomes and drive long-term sustainability through effective stakeholder engagement. Despite advancements, the design and planning phases of BIM-enabled construction projects consistently exhibit an underrepresentation of end users and environmental considerations. These omissions highlight inadequacies in stakeholder engagement, which are critical for achieving comprehensive sustainability and aligning project outcomes with user needs and environmental goals. This research maps CSFs to corresponding stakeholders, revealing a complex network with the BIM coordinator/manager playing a pivotal role. This mapping underscores the importance of integrating stakeholder inputs, particularly from end users, early in the project lifecycle to enhance functionality and ensure the long-term viability of construction projects. However, current practices often overlook this, leading to a potential misalignment between project deliverables and user expectations. The construction industry can move towards more sustainable, efficient, and user-focused outcomes by addressing these gaps. This study calls for a paradigm shift in BIM methodologies to adopt a construction environment that is not only efficient but also adaptable to the needs of its users and the environmental imperatives of today's world.