Stage Of Project Research Articles

Fair voting outcomes with impact and novelty compromises? Unravelling biases in electing participatory budgeting winners.

Participatory budgeting, as a paradigm for democratic innovations, engages citizens in the distribution of a public budget to projects, which they propose and vote for implementation. So far, voting algorithms have been proposed and studied in social choice literature to elect projects that are popular, while others prioritize a proportional representation of voters' preferences, for instance, the rule of equal shares. However, the anticipated impact and novelty in the broader society by the winning projects, as selected by different algorithms, remains totally under-explored, lacking both a universal theory of impact for voting and a rigorous unifying framework for impact and novelty assessments. This article tackles this grand challenge towards new axiomatic foundations for designing effective and fair voting methods. This is through new and striking insights derived from a large-scale analysis of biases over 345 real-world voting outcomes, characterized for the first time by a novel portfolio of impact and novelty metrics. We find strong causal evidence that equal shares comes with impact loss in several infrastructural projects of different cost levels that have been so far over-represented. However, it also comes with a novel, yet over-represented, impact gain in welfare, education and culture. We discuss the broader implications of these results and how impact loss can be mitigated at the stage of campaign design and project ideation.This article is part of the theme issue 'Co-creating the future: participatory cities and digital governance'.

Research on BIM sub-model data of construction engineering based on MVD

BIM technology has been widely applied to various stages of construction projects in China. The data required at each stage and scenario of construction projects varies, necessitating the definition of target BIM data according to data needs. When BIM software generates IFC models, different MVD templates can be configured to output BIM sub-models. To study the characteristics of data configuration for different MVDs, this article takes construction projects as an example and designs an analysis experiment for BIM sub-model output based on MVD. It analyzes the differences and characteristics of IFC model data from both the overall project level and the professional component level according to key indicators, with the aim of providing references for construction project personnel to select matching MVDs, ensuring the effectiveness of BIM sub-models, and meeting the needs of business scenario applications.

THRIVE

Learning is a core competency for learning designers, but formal training and development often still presents a challenge—especially for novice learning designers. This paper reports on the initial stages of a design-based research project to conceptualise a purpose-led portfolio-based training program, based on cognitive apprenticeship principles, that cultivates in novice learning designers the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and values necessary to be effective in their current roles and future careers. The evidence-based, research-informed THRIVE framework is described, alongside how it shapes specific elements of the planned portfolio. The conceptualisation of the portfolio and supporting training program focuses on ‘purpose’ as a response to changing employee needs and motivations in the modern workplace, while also preparing learning designers to thrive in their work. This has implications for how we design and deliver professional learning for learning designers, as well as deepening our understanding of employee motivation and engagement in the field.

Critical Reflexivity of the Researcher as an Exploratory Vehicle in Sensitive Research

Qualitative research requires in-depth immersion in the topic of concern for the findings to be valid and pertinent. However, in doing so, qualitative researchers may encounter certain challenges that address beyond the methodological concern. There is limited research that explores the impact on researchers who undertake research on sensitive or challenging research and marginalized groups. Considering that the researcher is the central figure who influences the research project across all steps from conceptualization to action, researcher reflexivity can be used as a strategy to look behind the curtain of the research project. Through practicing critical reflexive experiential analysis, I reflect on my journey on conducting research on the topic of sexual violence. I address the silence of researcher vulnerability by documenting and analyzing my emotional journey through each stage of the research project in my reflexive journal and how I resolved each dilemma at both personal and professional levels. The aim of this article is, therefore, to highlight the process of critical reflexivity of my journey as a sexual violence researcher in Indian context.

"Come to us first": Centering Community Organizations in Artificial Intelligence for Social Good Partnerships

Artificial Intelligence for Social Good (AI4SG) has emerged as a growing body of research and practice exploring the potential of AI technologies to tackle social issues. This area emphasizes interdisciplinary partnerships with community organizations, such as non-profits and government agencies. However, amidst excitement about new advances in AI and their potential impact, the needs, expectations, and aspirations of these community organizations--and whether they are being met--are not well understood. Understanding these factors is important to ensure that the considerable efforts by AI teams and community organizations can actually achieve the positive social impact they strive for. Drawing on the Data Feminism framework, we explored the perspectives of community organization members on their partnerships with AI teams through 16 semi-structured interviews. Our study highlights the pervasive influence of funding agendas and the optimism surrounding AI's potential. Despite the significant intellectual contributions and labor provided by community organization members, their goals were frequently sidelined in favor of other stakeholders, including AI teams. While many community organization members expected tangible project deployment, only two out of 14 projects we studied reached the deployment stage. However, community organization members sustained their belief in the potential of the projects, still seeing diminished goals as valuable. To enhance the efficacy of future collaborations, our participants shared their aspirations for success, calling for co-leadership starting from the early stages of projects. We propose data co-liberation as a grounding principle for approaching AI4SG moving forward, positing that community organizations' co-leadership is essential for fostering more effective, sustainable, and ethical development of AI.

Risk-Based Completion Cost Overrun Ratio Estimation in Construction Projects Using Machine Learning Classification Algorithms: A Case Study

Estimating the completion cost accurately in the early phases of construction projects is critical to their success. However, cost overruns are almost inevitable due to the risks inherent in construction projects. Hence, the completion cost fluctuates throughout the execution phase and requires periodic updates. There is a need for a prompt and user-friendly completion cost estimation model that accounts for fluctuating risk scores and their impacts on the total cost during the execution phase. Machine learning (ML) techniques could address these requirements by providing effective methods for tackling dynamic systems. The proposed approach aims to predict the cost overrun ratio classes of the completion cost according to the changes in the total risk scores at any time of the project. Six classification algorithms were utilized and validated by employing 110 data points from a globally operating construction company. The performances of the algorithms were evaluated with validation and performance indices. The decision tree classifier surpassed other algorithms. Although there are some research limitations, including risk perception, data gathering restrictions, and selecting proper ML algorithms upon data properties, this research improves the planning abilities of construction executives by providing a cost overrun ratio based on changing total risk scores, facilitating swift and simple assessments at any stage of a construction project’s execution.

Adaptive Management of Multi-Scenario Projects in Cybersecurity: Models and Algorithms for Decision-Making

In recent years, cybersecurity management has increasingly required advanced methodologies capable of handling complex, evolving threat landscapes. Scenario network-based approaches have emerged as effective strategies for managing uncertainty and adaptability in cybersecurity projects. This article introduces a scenario network-based approach for managing cybersecurity projects, utilizing fuzzy linguistic models and a Takagi–Sugeno–Kanga fuzzy neural network. Drawing upon L. Zadeh’s theory of linguistic variables, the methodology integrates expert analysis, linguistic variables, and a continuous genetic algorithm to predict membership function parameters. Fuzzy production rules are employed for decision-making, while the Mamdani fuzzy inference algorithm enhances interpretability. This approach enables multi-scenario planning and adaptability across multi-stage cybersecurity projects. Preliminary results from a research prototype of an intelligent expert system—designed to analyze project stages and adaptively construct project trajectories—suggest the proposed approach is effective. In computational experiments, the use of fuzzy procedures resulted in an over 25% reduction in errors compared to traditional methods, particularly in adjusting project scenarios from pessimistic to baseline projections. While promising, this approach requires further testing across diverse cybersecurity contexts. Future studies will aim to refine scenario adaptation and optimize system response in high-risk project environments.

Critical construction waste minimization strategies for a circular economy in developing countries: A contractor’s perspective in China

AbstractDeveloping countries are often burdened by substantial construction waste (CW) generated through urbanization and urban renewal activities, highlighting the urgent need for effective CW minimization strategies to facilitate their transition towards a circular economy. Although previous studies have examined similar topics at various stages of construction projects from different perspectives, a comprehensive study integrating all critical stages from a contractor’s perspective is still lacking. To fill this gap, this study aims to identify critical CW minimization strategies in developing countries, with a holistic concentration on the planning, design, and construction stages, using China as a case study. æThe research began by compiling a comprehensive list of CW minimization strategies tailored to developing countries, based on an extensive desktop survey and a focus group interview, resulting in 32 strategies. A subsequent questionnaire survey with leading CW management experts and rigorous statistical analyses have identified 9 strategies as critical for minimizing CW in developing countries. Finally, through exploratory factor analysis, seven fundamental principles for CW minimization have been established: “Planning for CW Minimization” for the planning stage; “Optimized Design of Building Structures,” “Optimization of Design Process,” and “Stakeholders’ Efforts in the Design Stage” for the design stage; and “Optimization of Construction Techniques,” “Stakeholders’ Efforts in the Construction Stage,” and “Efforts on CW Disposal” for the construction stage. This study offers valuable insights for stakeholders in developing countries, empowering them to effectively minimize CW through targeted strategies, facilitating the transition to a circular economy and supporting the realization of the "zero-waste city" goal.

Supporting students’ transition from college to university: Staff perspectives on developing a coherent tertiary system in Scotland

Scottish policy, funding, and quality systems have been tasked to provide “a more coherent and streamlined tertiary education system from the student perspective that delivers the best learning experience for students” (Scottish Funding Council, n.d.). This paper helps to inform this process, by presenting the findings from the second stage of Quality Assurance Agency Enhancement Theme project: Mind the Gap? College Students’ Experience of University. This stage investigated the perspectives of staff who support students making the transition from college to university. While there is a relatively broad literature covering the student perspective of this transition, the staff perspective is less well understood. This paper uses the themes developed from the first stage of the project – a qualitative research synthesis on the lived experiences of students (Robertson & Cunningham, 2023) – to investigate staff perceptions of this transition. These themes considered are: (1) the responsibility for enabling effective transition; (2) the extent to which alignment between colleges and universities is achievable or, indeed, desirable; and (3) the extent to which college to university transitions genuinely widen participation. This paper reports the findings from a series of focus groups with university academic staff, university student support staff, and college academic staff from three institutions (two universities and one college). Using theoretical thematic analysis, the paper considers how sectoral, academic, identity and social, and logistical factors affect, or are identified in, the practice of the participants and what this means for the development of policy and practice around a ‘coherent tertiary model’.

Environmental analysis in UK modern methods of construction (MMC) housing: insights from early-stage architectural design process

PurposeModern Methods of Construction (MMC) have been promoted as a solution to address housing shortages and meet sustainability goals in the UK. However, the practical functioning of MMC, particularly in relation to early-stage environmental analyses, remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by providing empirical insights into how architects engage in environmental analysis in early-stage MMC housing designs.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative pilot study is based on a detailed case study of a UK architectural firm specializing in modular housing. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight architects with varying MMC experience. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data allowed for the exploration of key themes influencing early-stage environmental analysis, offering a narrative account of architects’ experiences in MMC practices.FindingsThe study reveals that environmental analysis in MMC is shaped by social, organisational and project-based factors. Three key themes emerged: uncertainty in environmental assumptions, dependencies on external consultants and the dominance of Passivhaus principles in design decisions. These factors challenge the integration of environmental considerations during the early design stages of MMC projects.Research limitations/implicationsAs this is a single case study, the findings might not be generalizable. Future research should expand on multiple firms and project settings to validate and broaden these findings.Originality/valueThis study provides an in-depth understanding of the challenges architects face when integrating environmental analysis into MMC. This reveals the relational and interdependent nature of environmental analysis in MMC projects, where decisions are shaped by multiple social, organisational and project-specific factors. By emphasizing these interdependencies, this study provides original insights into how environmental considerations can be integrated more effectively into the early design stages of MMC projects.

Common values for common goods: a circular regeneration model for active citizenship

Regenerating cultural heritage implies adopting a systemic and multi-scalar approach capable of considering the characteristics and flows of relations between the different components of the system. The regeneration project can be a circular strategy to reconnect people and places, generating and regenerating material and immaterial values of cultural heritage as a ‘common good’. The research proposes a circular and participatory regeneration model, validated through an evaluative framework. It supports decision-making and assesses the multidimensional impacts of reuse, redevelopment, maintenance and management practices of the commons, at all stages of the recovery project, and with respect to emerging instances and criteria adopted in existing policies.

Notational actants: new musical approaches through the material score

This exposition brings together a collection of images, thoughts, and descriptions of the initial stages of a doctoral research project that explores the concept of 'notational actants': materially-focused, 3-dimensional objects intended for touch-based interpretation in musical performance. The majority of the content in this exposition was created during a one-month residency at Mustarinda (Hyrynsalmi, Finland).

تأثير إدارة مخاطر سلسلة التوريد على أداء المشروع في قطاع البناء والتشييد في المملكة العربية السعودية: دراسة حالة لشركة سابك

This research aims to analyze the impact of supply chain risk management on project performance in the construction sector in Saudi Arabia, by studying SABIC. The researcher used an analytical descriptive and questionnaire as a tool for collecting data from a sample of 30 respondents from SABIC staff and engineers. The questionnaire has been divided into three main axes: sources and types of supply chain risk, and the effect of supply chain risk management on project performance, practices, challenges and success factors for supply chain risk management. The data has been analyzed using descriptive, graded, broken and unit statistics. The study concluded that there was a positive and moral impact on the management of the chain of supply chain to perform the project in the construction and construction sector in Saudi Arabia. The study recommended that the concept and methodology for the risk management of supply chain at all stages of projects, and to benefit from technology and innovation in improving and developing the supply chain, communication and cooperation with all parties concerned with the supply chain, and commitment to standards Environmental, health and safety laws and safety related to the supply chain.

Driving innovation in primary healthcare though co-creation with stakeholders in Switzerland

Abstract Issue/problem Primary healthcare systems worldwide face challenges such as socio-demographic shifts, increasing chronic diseases, rising costs, and workforce shortages, demanding innovative solutions for the future of primary care. Description of the problem Addressing the complex challenges of creating a resilient primary healthcare model involves considering interdependent factors such as health policies, funding, workforce training, technology, and evolving diseases, alongside diverse stakeholder interests. To tackle this, the ‘Health2040: Co-creation of a Future Outpatient Primary Healthcare Model in Switzerland’ project was launched in 2023 to develop a forward-looking model by integrating insights from various stakeholders. Results The project involved 40 stakeholders, including patients, researchers, healthcare professionals, policy-makers, and insurers, in two full-day workshops aimed at co-creating a vision and actionable framework for Switzerland’s future primary care. The first workshop focused on developing and visualizing potential models, while the second targeted the transition to these new models and the creation of an implementation plan. These sessions were underpinned by a comprehensive literature review on emerging primary care models, providing a scientific foundation for the discussions. Lessons Successful co-creation requires significant preparatory efforts and innovative creativity techniques, such as Future Newspapers, brainstorming, games, and user personas. Engaging stakeholders throughout various stages of the project helped to enhance relevance. Feedback from a steering group on the workshop’s concept, methodologies, and evidence synthesis was instrumental. Healthcare practitioners also contributed their insights on patient personas, ensuring the models developed were pertinent to actual healthcare practices. Stakeholder engagement process was essential for fostering innovative ideas and ensuring stakeholder buy-in for the developed solutions. Key messages • Co-creation with stakeholders is a promising way to develop innovative solutions for health systems. • Integrating stakeholder input is crucial at all the project stages, from preparation to evaluation.

Conservation translocations in urban environments: State of the knowledge and future directions

Cities are important for biodiversity conservation and are a central focus in the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration. Species reintroductions and population reinforcements (i.e. conservation translocations) are an important component of conservation, yet are rare in urban environments, possibly because of perceived risks in highly modified and complex social-ecological urban systems. Here we review the literature describing urban conservation translocations to provide guidance for their effective implementation. We find that urban translocations have been performed for a variety of aims including focal species conservation, improvements in ecosystem functions in the later stages of restoration projects (e.g. seed dispersal in revegetated sites) and for site remediation (e.g. organic pollution removal), and enhancing human-nature connections. Conservation translocations were found in a range of urban habitat types including formal and informal greenspaces, grey spaces, streams, ponds, and marine environments, ranging from near-historic conditions (e.g. remnant/restored sites) to highly modified novel/designed systems. Barriers and enablers varied between terrestrial and aquatic release sites, with predators, habitat suitability, and leaving release sites being more important in terrestrial sites and disturbance (flooding) regime and pollution being more important in aquatic sites. A range of techniques have been applied to mitigate these barriers. Success rates in urban translocations are high (>90 %) and comparable to conservation translocations in general, suggesting they can contribute to urban biodiversity conservation by assisting species to overcome dispersal barriers and occupy otherwise suitable urban habitats. However, evaluation methods vary widely between urban translocation studies. There is also a need for longer-term monitoring of translocation success that might be achieved simultaneously while enhancing human-nature connections through citizen science programs.

BIM Driving Innovation in Construction Industry: Advancements in Building Lifecycle Management and Facility Management

With the rapid development of the traditional construction industry, China's construction market is becoming saturated and overcapacity, and the global macro economy is facing uncertainty. Negatively impacted by global events and the climate crisis, the willingness of traditional architectural firms to invest in real estate, infrastructure and other projects needs to be higher. The enhancement of digital information technology has brought greater freedom and openness, and traditional architects are looking to BIM technology to stimulate creativity and build more dynamic buildings. This paper analyses the development and application of BIM technology from the perspective of the BIM+ intelligent management model. It discusses the importance of upgrading the traditional construction industry, especially in building life cycle management. Through BIM+ intelligent management, the traditional construction industry can handle the information in all project stages more efficiently and achieve the goal of resource integration. At the same time, the combination of BIM and facility management can realise intelligent operation and monitoring of building projects. This paper reviews related research and looks forward to the future research direction of combining BIM and building facility management.

“An Emotional Cycle”: Excitement, Worry, and Joy in a Citizen Science Biodiversity Project Using Bee Hotels

ABSTRACT This paper considers the affective and emotional aspects of citizen scientist engagement in a research project aiming to map solitary bee diversity across Johannesburg, South Africa. In social media engagement by people participating as citizen scientists, expressions of emotions were a key feature. To further understand the implications of emotions for the science and for the citizens, we undertook interviews with a sub-set of recruited participants. These are contextualized by a discussion of key literature on citizen science and human-insect relations. The findings presented show how excitement, worry and joy were expressed by participants at different stages of the citizen science project. We then theorize on the role of emotion in this specific citizen science project and argue that emotion should be considered at the design stage of other citizen science projects as it can play a key role in creating experiences that are rewarding for citizens, as well as producing useful data for scientists.

Not a Temple but a Tomb: The Architectural Drawings on Pap. Berlin P 15781 and 15782A + B

Summary Based on a reassessment of the papyri Pap. Berlin P 15871 and 1582A+B with the correction of several readings, particularly one of the three determinatives of (i) “shrine”, the key word for their earlier interpretations, it is suggested that the architectural drawings do not show a rock cut temple or a hemi-speos but KV 5, the so-called tomb of the sons of Ramesses II in the Valley of the Kings. Differences in the handwriting, in the depiction of the bedrock pattern surrounding the rectangular rooms, and other observations suggest that more than one person was involved in the creation of the architectural drawings. As suggested in the past, they belonged to at least two different papyri. Terms referring to work in progress indicate that the papyri are related to work in progress, as opposed to other architectural drawings which represent the beginning or final stages of tomb construction projects.

A metaheuristic-based optimization model for flight procedure design

In recent years, the continuous increase in air traffic has led to a saturation of available airspace. The new localizer performance with vertical guidance (LPV) instrument approach procedures (IAPs) offer additional capacity at aerodromes and in airspaces. To support their implementation, a specifically developed model focused on the improved IAP design process and optimized solution generation is proposed. The model provides a fully automated search of the solution space by employing the bee colony optimization metaheuristic algorithm. The resulting list of alternatives is ranked by the objective function score, which is affected by the balancing values of the complexity indicators and the achieved obstacle clearance height. The model’s capabilities are successfully validated against the challenging operational environment of Podgorica Airport. The model was initially developed to conduct IAP feasibility studies; however, it can also be used in the initial stages of airport planning projects or for IAP criteria validation.

Driving the zero-carbon construction strategy: key barriers and enablers

PurposeIn the fast-changing field of zero-carbon construction there is a gap in understanding how zero-carbon construction strategies are experienced in practice. This paper aims to identify the key barriers and enablers to driving a zero-carbon construction strategy by industry, policymakers and educators.Design/methodology/approachThe research was conducted in two stages. The first stage used a literature review to determine thematic areas from which to develop discussion points for the second stage of the research, which gathered insights into key barriers and enablers to driving a zero-carbon construction strategy from analysing recorded discussion with industry, policymakers and educators. This study adopts a qualitative research methodological design underpinned by dialectical approach of enquiries involving 31 participants. The philosophical standpoint aligns with a constructivist participatory worldview based on multiple stakeholder perspectives. Data involving virtual and face-to-face engagement held simultaneously in Australia and India were transcribed, coded and synthesised to identify the barriers and enablers to driving zero-carbon construction strategy.FindingsThe paper identified key barriers and enablers driving zero-carbon construction strategy. Barriers included limited awareness of industry dynamics; fixed mental models of professional practice; complexities in identifying appropriate skillsets; difficulties associated with reviewing education and training models and integrating sustainable strategies at early stages of projects. Enablers included: fostering education reform and supporting frameworks and procurement strategies for developers and clients; implementing efficient building designs, construction and operationalisation of zero-carbon buildings and; utilising an industry-led integrated approach. A framework was developed to provide an illustrative view of the linkage between the research projects’ focus areas and emergent themes.Originality/valueThe paper provides zero-carbon action priorities for four significant stakeholder groups in the build environment, developers, building occupiers, educators and government. As the priorities are derived in the research from examination of current literature and analysis of stakeholder viewpoints, this paper presents a unique, realistic and timely identification of barriers and key enablers driving zero-carbon construction strategies. Methodology applied in terms of data collection involved a public discourse and a unique technology-driven collaborative approach where participants simultaneously contributed across countries and time zones in a synchronous manner across key topics related to driving the zero-carbon construction strategy.