Research

25 pages, 5088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-Construction Defects in Multi-Unit Australian Dwellings: An Analysis of the Defect Type, Causes, Risks, and Impacts

by Michael Denman, Fahim Ullah, Siddra Qayyum and Oluwole Olatunji

Buildings 2024, 14(1), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14010231 - 15 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1075

Abstract

Due to the rising prices of houses and rent, apartment buildings have become the preferred and most utilized dwellings in Australia. However, there have been cases of serious defects in multi-unit dwellings (apartment buildings), posing various risks to and reducing potential residents’ confidence [...] Read more.

Due to the rising prices of houses and rent, apartment buildings have become the preferred and most utilized dwellings in Australia. However, there have been cases of serious defects in multi-unit dwellings (apartment buildings), posing various risks to and reducing potential residents’ confidence in such dwellings. To address this issue, the current study investigated the types, causes, risk severity, and impacts of defects on residents in mid- to high-rise multi-unit dwellings in Australia. The study utilized a mixed approach involving quantitative (online questionnaire) and qualitative (interviews) methods. Data were collected from 104 apartment building residents in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, with support from interviews with six experienced local construction professionals. The results revealed that there are 11 key defects present in local apartment buildings, with waterproofing, internal finishes, and structural issues being the most frequently reported. Residents typically report these defects to building owners, agents, and managers, who take more than three months, on average, to rectify them, adding to the residents’ psychological issues and their inability to use the property as intended. The reasons for the delayed rectification of defects include non-responsive owners, agents, and building management teams, scheduling conflicts, litigation, and high costs. The interviewed professionals acknowledged the presence of defects and identified the reliance on Design and Construct (D&C) and fixed price contracts, lack of public awareness, and absence of a system to capture builders’ reputation, as well as a manipulative quality check system, as key reasons for defects. This study addresses the defect concerns in multi-unit Australian dwellings (apartments) and expects to spark a much-needed debate around reforms in the construction sector to address these issues and minimize their risks and impact on residents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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17 pages, 1460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Dark Side of Empowering Leadership: How Empowering Leadership Affects Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior in Construction Projects

by Sen Lin, Siyu Chen and Xun Liu

Buildings 2023, 13(10), 2640; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13102640 - 19 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1523

Abstract

The success of construction projects heavily depends on the compliance of parties with ethical codes of conduct. Unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB) may serve as a barrier to close collaboration between parties. Although empowering leadership is generally considered to be beneficial to project management, [...] Read more.

The success of construction projects heavily depends on the compliance of parties with ethical codes of conduct. Unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB) may serve as a barrier to close collaboration between parties. Although empowering leadership is generally considered to be beneficial to project management, this study argues that empowering leadership may unintentionally increase the tendency of employees to adopt UPB. The aim of this study is to uncover the influencing mechanism underlying empowering leadership and UPB by introducing the mediating role of role stress. It is hypothesized that empowering leadership can enhance employees’ role stress, thereby increasing the engagement of UPB. Moreover, organizational goal clarity can ease the negative effect of empowering leadership. With data collected from experienced construction professionals, the results of the covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) supported the hypothesis. The findings help in understanding why employees may adopt unethical behaviors when they feel high levels of role stress that are caused by empowerment. Theoretically, the study enriches the literature on empowering leadership and UPB in the construction context. In practice, managers are reminded about the adverse effect of empowering leadership on employees’ unethical behaviors. Organizational management tools are suggested to assist in assigning work appropriate to employees’ roles. Regular checks and feedback about organizational goals are also necessary to confirm compliant behaviors and progress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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22 pages, 529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determining the Factors Influencing Construction Project Management Performance Improvement through Earned Value-Based Value Engineering Strategy: A Delphi-Based Survey

by Esmaeil Nejatyan, Hadi Sarvari, Seyed Abbas Hosseini and Hassan Javanshir

Buildings 2023, 13(8), 1964; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13081964 - 01 Aug 2023

Viewed by 2835

Abstract

Proper planning and management of construction projects have long been regarded as a necessity. The ability to make sound decisions and solve problems using appropriate performance reports related to the project implementation process are the two most key factors in controlling the performance [...] Read more.

Proper planning and management of construction projects have long been regarded as a necessity. The ability to make sound decisions and solve problems using appropriate performance reports related to the project implementation process are the two most key factors in controlling the performance of construction project management. Even though these factors considerably contribute to controlling precise project performance, previous research has failed to investigate them to their fullest potential. Therefore, this research seeks to fill the existing gap by determining the influential factors on construction project management performance through earned value-based value engineering strategy. In this line, a comprehensive literature analysis was undertaken to extract the influential factors on construction project management performance. Then, three rounds of a Delphi survey were conducted to consolidate the influential factors. There were a total of 39 factors that were grouped into four categories. The identified influential factors were then evaluated through the analysis of quantitative data. The findings showed that the dimension of “Engineering economics” was ranked first in terms of importance, followed by “Project management performance”, “Value engineering approach”, and “Earned value management” at the second to fourth ranks, respectively. The overall ranking of the factors placed “Project Stakeholder Management” in the first position and “Project Management Software” in the bottom place. It is anticipated that the key findings and effective recommendations of this study will considerably contribute to the improvement of decisions on project planning and improve the performance of construction project management while enhancing different stakeholders’ understanding of the most influential factors on the performance of construction project management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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18 pages, 4390 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a BIM-Enabled Automated Cost Segregation System

by Chengyi Zhang, Danish Kumar, Huimin Li, Rong Zhou, Lelin Lv and Junrui Tian

Buildings 2023, 13(7), 1805; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13071805 - 15 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1786

Abstract

The cost segregation study is a tax planning strategy employed to optimize cash flow by redefining real estate assets as personal property and land improvement, enabling accelerated tax depreciation. However, conventional cost segregation practices suffer from limitations, such as time-consuming procedures and high [...] Read more.

The cost segregation study is a tax planning strategy employed to optimize cash flow by redefining real estate assets as personal property and land improvement, enabling accelerated tax depreciation. However, conventional cost segregation practices suffer from limitations, such as time-consuming procedures and high associated costs, which hinder their effectiveness. To overcome these challenges, this paper presents an innovative strategy that integrates Building Information Modelling (BIM) to develop an automated cost segregation system. The research aims to optimize the workflow by developing a BIM model and using 5D BIM to perform a cost segregation study by categorizing building elements under a Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). This workflow aims at minimizing the time and financial resources expended with traditional methodologies. The proposed workflow enables precise identification and separate depreciation of building components, resulting in significant tax deductions that would otherwise be unattainable. The results indicate that performing cost segregation with BIM leads to a significant increase in depreciation amounts, particularly during the initial six years, while also raising the net present value of depreciation by 45%. The integration of BIM technology facilitates effective management and sharing of cost segregation data among stakeholders, enhancing collaboration and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. Owners can optimize cost management and financial planning, identifying tax-saving opportunities and improving cash flow. General Contractors (GCs) can leverage the system during the bidding process, enhancing their competitiveness and project acquisition potential. Future research can explore the integration of cost segregation modules from BIM with asset management tools, enabling improved facility and fiscal management of building components. Such integration holds promise for enhancing the construction and real estate industry’s overall efficiency and performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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20 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Team Voice Contributes to Construction Project Performance: The Mediating Role of Project Learning and Project Reflexivity

by Ding Wang, Jianyao Jia, Shan Jiang, Tianyi Liu and Guofeng Ma

Buildings 2023, 13(7), 1599; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13071599 - 24 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1211

Abstract

Voice behavior has been widely recognized as having various benefits for organizations, while researchers seldom notice its consequences in construction projects. Against this context, this study empirically explores the impact path of team voice on project performance in construction projects from a multi-team [...] Read more.

Voice behavior has been widely recognized as having various benefits for organizations, while researchers seldom notice its consequences in construction projects. Against this context, this study empirically explores the impact path of team voice on project performance in construction projects from a multi-team system (MTS) perspective. Considering the essence of voice behavior is to provide information, this study introduces the input–process–outcome (IPO) framework to verify how team voice can affect project performance by influencing project learning and project reflexivity. The online survey method, monetary incentive method, and chain-referral sampling method are adopted to distribute the designed questionnaire. A total of 184 data points from completed construction projects in China supported the research conclusion by adopting the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique. Project learning and project reflexivity positively mediate the relationship between team voice and project performance in construction projects. Specifically, team voice can first positively influence project learning and project reflexivity, which both have a positive relationship with project performance. For theory, this study opens the black box between team voice and project performance in the context of construction projects by unveiling the mediating path of project learning and project reflexivity, which also enriches the literature on voice behavior and expands its application. Furthermore, this study provides one new perspective for MTS knowledge by adopting the IPO framework to explore the underlying mechanism between the focal team and the overall team performance of the MTS. For practice, this study has a directive function for construction project management and MTS management, while providing reminders for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners about the significance of project learning and project reflexivity on project performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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27 pages, 1607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers to Social Responsibility Implementation in Belt and Road Mega Infrastructure Projects: A Hybrid Fuzzy DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC Approach

by Mohammed Taha Alqershy and Qian Shi

Buildings 2023, 13(6), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13061561 - 19 Jun 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1445

Abstract

Social responsibility strategies are indispensable for the sustainable development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Nonetheless, the application of social responsibility (SR) policies in such mega infrastructure projects remains a pressing concern since a number of barriers impede the effective integration of [...] Read more.

Social responsibility strategies are indispensable for the sustainable development of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Nonetheless, the application of social responsibility (SR) policies in such mega infrastructure projects remains a pressing concern since a number of barriers impede the effective integration of SR practices. Therefore, this paper seeks to identify these barriers and determine the interrelationships among them. A list of barriers was first identified from a literature review and expert consultation. Subsequently, a survey was designed to collect experts’ views on the interrelations among these barriers. The Fuzzy DEMATEL method was employed to analyze these barriers’ causal relationships and interdependencies. Subsequently, the ISM approach was used to develop a hierarchical structure and establish the driving and dependence relationships among them. The classification of barriers, based on driving power and dependence power, was accomplished using the MICMAC analysis. The results reveal that barriers such as “The diverse institutions, cultures, and social conditions among BRI countries”, “Lack of robust social responsibility laws and regulations in the host countries”, “Lack of stringent and legally binding BRI policies and guidelines governing social responsibility”, “The diverse environmental and social frameworks and standards among BRI countries”, “The diverse international, national, and private funds for BRI projects”, and “Lack of customer awareness and knowledge of CSR” are the most critical barriers and have the greatest influence on social responsibility implementation. Identifying these key barriers and their interrelationships will assist decision-makers, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in BRI mega infrastructure projects in minimizing or overcoming them, hence increasing the chances of successfully integrating social responsibility practices within these projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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24 pages, 10121 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Global Research Productions Pertaining to Design for Safety: A Bibliometric Analysis Based on WoS Database

by Yan Zhu, Ye Mao, Ming Yuan, Kai Zhang and Congdong Lv

Buildings 2023, 13(6), 1515; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13061515 - 12 Jun 2023

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Design for Safety (DFS) is a crucial tool that assists humans in paying closer attention to safety and health in project life cycles of buildings and other facilities. Analyzing DFS through a bibliometric perspective can facilitate the development of new theories, promote disciplinary [...] Read more.

Design for Safety (DFS) is a crucial tool that assists humans in paying closer attention to safety and health in project life cycles of buildings and other facilities. Analyzing DFS through a bibliometric perspective can facilitate the development of new theories, promote disciplinary content, and reveal the direction of development in the subject area. This paper presents a systematic, holistic, and comprehensive overview of the global literature focused on DFS, summarizing the number of publications, research hotspots, research methods, and distribution. Scientific publications are a measure of academic level and scientific strength of institutions and individuals, and this article provides an overview of interdisciplinary research on DFS from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2020, based on literature related to DFS in the Web of Science database (WoS-database). The paper highlights current research hotspots, ideas, and trends around the world, offering a global overview of contemporary and interdisciplinary research in DFS. By utilizing both keyword clustering and co-citation clustering techniques, the paper proposes the 4P framework (i.e., purpose, people, procedures, and phenomena) to better understand current global achievements and to achieve a complex structure for future development. This concise description of DFS trends may provide a logical mechanism for assessing and understanding the development of DFS research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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21 pages, 4376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Risk in Prefabricated Building Construction under EPC Contracting Using Structural Equation Modeling: A Case Study of Shaanxi Province, China

by Ping Cao and Xiatong Lei

Buildings 2023, 13(6), 1465; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13061465 - 04 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2048

Abstract

Prefabricated buildings have the advantages of high efficiency and saving resources. However, China’s prefabricated buildings were built relatively late, and there are problems in terms of their low standardization, integration, and industrialization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of [...] Read more.

Prefabricated buildings have the advantages of high efficiency and saving resources. However, China’s prefabricated buildings were built relatively late, and there are problems in terms of their low standardization, integration, and industrialization. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of constructing prefabricated buildings under the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) general contracting mode from the perspective of general contractors and to propose countermeasures for the key risks. Firstly, a risk evaluation index system was established via a literature analysis, and a questionnaire survey was used to collect the data. SPSS was used to conduct the data factor analysis to finally identify 4 first-level indicators and 14 second-level indicators. Then, a structural equation model (SEM) was developed to further evaluate the impact of each indicator on the risk of constructing prefabricated buildings under the EPC general contracting mode. The results showed that the construction and design risk had the greatest impact. Among them, the technical level of the construction personnel while conducting the hoisting, stacking, and protection of on-site materials and the lack of integrated design experience among the designers were the key points for risk control. On the one hand, this study explored the whole life cycle of a project, which makes up for the lack of risk analyses and the control being limited to a single engineering stage that has been presented in previous studies. On the other hand, in terms of the design, procurement, and construction as a whole research object, we found that the fuzzy evaluation method and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) used in previous risk analyses and evaluation methods have defects. They cannot verify the rationality of the logical relationship between the evaluation indices. In contrast, this study used the SEM method to fill this research gap. This ensures the scientific nature of our research to the greatest extent. Additionally, we also found some problems with this type of research: the selection of the evaluation indicators and data collection vary with the region, project characteristics, project contracting mode, and risk management subject, which influence the results of studies. Overall, the SEM method established in this study provides a reference and can help us conduct similar research and model evaluations in other regions. This method can guide project implementers to make the best risk-management decisions, so it is of great significance for practitioners in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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18 pages, 4607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Stability and Accuracy of Deterministic Project Cost Prediction Methods in Earned Value Management

by Alexis Barrientos-Orellana, Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez, Daniel Mora-Melià, Alberto Cerezo-Narváez and Jimmy H. Gutiérrez-Bahamondes

Buildings 2023, 13(5), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13051206 - 02 May 2023

Viewed by 1588

Abstract

Completing a project on time and on budget are essential factors for the success of any project. One technique that allows predicting the final cost of a project is earned value management (EVM). In this technique, different mathematical methods for predicting the final [...] Read more.

Completing a project on time and on budget are essential factors for the success of any project. One technique that allows predicting the final cost of a project is earned value management (EVM). In this technique, different mathematical methods for predicting the final project cost have been proposed over the last 30 years. These formulas make use of activities’ actual costs and durations as the project progresses. EVM is a technique widely used by many project management professionals. However, very few studies have compared the stability and accuracy of the multiple existing methods for predicting the final cost of the project (commonly abbreviated as estimated cost at completion, EAC). This study compares the stability and accuracy of 30 deterministic cost prediction methods (EAC) in EVM. For this purpose, a representative database of 4100 simulated projects of various topological structures is used. Our results suggest that the methods with the simplest mathematical configurations achieve better stability and accuracy performance. Knowing which EVM methods are the most stable and accurate for predicting the final cost of the project will help project practitioners choose the most reliable cost prediction techniques when they are managing their own projects in real contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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14 pages, 550 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Study on the Impact of Cross-Organizational Control and Knowledge Sharing on Project Performance

by Kejian Shang, Yunyun Cao and Jie Wu

Buildings 2023, 13(5), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13051113 - 22 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 912

Abstract

In order to study how cross-organizational control and knowledge sharing affect project performance during a whole process engineering consulting project, this paper constructs a theoretical model of cross-organizational control, knowledge sharing, and project performance and uses a structural equation model (SEM) to conduct [...] Read more.

In order to study how cross-organizational control and knowledge sharing affect project performance during a whole process engineering consulting project, this paper constructs a theoretical model of cross-organizational control, knowledge sharing, and project performance and uses a structural equation model (SEM) to conduct an empirical analysis of questionnaire data. The results showed that trust can promote two types of project performance, while contractual control stimulates basic performance but does not significantly impact value-added project performance. The mediation results showed that tacit knowledge plays an intermediary role between trust and two types of project performance, while explicit knowledge plays an intermediary role between contractual control and basic project performance. The results of this paper will further enrich the application of knowledge sharing in the field of project management, open the “black box” of project performance in whole process engineering consulting, and provide owners with guidance to achieve value-added project performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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19 pages, 733 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Driving Path of Contractors’ Low-Carbon Behavior under Institutional Logic and Technological Logic

by Hui Gao, Yu-Hong Zhu, Ji-Yong Ding and Hong-Yang Li

Buildings 2023, 13(4), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13040989 - 08 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1233

Abstract

Based on the analytical framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this paper decomposed the driving factors under institutional logic and technological logic, and empirically tested the driving path of the low-carbon behavior (LCB) of contractors from the perspective of corporate cognition. [...] Read more.

Based on the analytical framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this paper decomposed the driving factors under institutional logic and technological logic, and empirically tested the driving path of the low-carbon behavior (LCB) of contractors from the perspective of corporate cognition. Moreover, this study further explored the differences in driving factors under different logic orientations and the formation mechanism of decoupling of heterogeneous LCB. The findings of this paper are as follows. Firstly, institutional logic and technological logic jointly drive the LCB of contractors. Perceived behavior control is not a sufficient condition. Secondly, institutional logic is more effective than technological logic in terms of the direction and coefficient of the driving path. Thirdly, institutional pressure does not directly lead to the decoupling of LCB of contractors but is mediated by intrinsic motivation. These findings provide support and help to the decision makers to cultivate and improve the level of contractors’ LCB in China and many other such countries that are similarly involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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17 pages, 1859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Buffer Calculation Model of Critical Chain Based on Adjacency Information Entropy

by Xiangtian Nie, Min Li, Jilan Lu and Bo Wang

Buildings 2023, 13(4), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13040942 - 02 Apr 2023

Viewed by 1175

Abstract

In project network planning, the correlation complexity of the processes is not only related to the immediately preceding and following processes, but also closely related to indirect adjacent processes. In the existing relevant studies, many scholars have considered the influence of direct adjacent [...] Read more.

In project network planning, the correlation complexity of the processes is not only related to the immediately preceding and following processes, but also closely related to indirect adjacent processes. In the existing relevant studies, many scholars have considered the influence of direct adjacent processes but ignored the influence of indirect adjacent processes. In addition, the three-point time estimation method and Monte Carlo simulation are mostly used in the current research for the estimation of process duration, while less research exists on the estimation of process optimal duration under multi-objective constraints. Therefore, this paper proposes a buffer calculation model of critical chain based on adjacency information entropy. This methodology provides comprehensive consideration of the relationship between cost, quality, safety, environment and process duration, the influence of process’s resource demand intensity, resource constraints and process duration on the buffer size, the influence of the relay potential of mutual cooperation and cross construction between processes, as well as the influence of adjacent complexity of processes on the project construction schedule. The calculation example analysis shows that this method can improve the accuracy of the calculation of process safety time, reduce the influence of the complexity of process adjacency correlation on the project construction schedule, reasonably control the buffer size, and effectively shorten the planned project duration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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24 pages, 4473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolutionary Game Analysis for Key Participants’ Behavior in Digital Transformation of the Chinese Construction Industry

by Chaoyong Zhang, Lelin Lv and Zhuofu Wang

Buildings 2023, 13(4), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13040922 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1448

Abstract

The transformation and upgrading of the construction industry has made obvious progress in China. However, the low degree of digitalization is still prominent. The digital transformation decision-making behavior of key participants in the construction industry is easily affected by economic interests, meaning that [...] Read more.

The transformation and upgrading of the construction industry has made obvious progress in China. However, the low degree of digitalization is still prominent. The digital transformation decision-making behavior of key participants in the construction industry is easily affected by economic interests, meaning that the implementation of digital transformation is a dynamic evolution process of repeated adjustment and continuous learning. Therefore, this study constructed a tripartite evolutionary game model of the government, service providers, and construction enterprises, and analyzed the strategy selection of each game player and the stability of the system equilibrium point. Moreover, the validity of the model and the influence of various factors on the system were verified and analyzed by numerical simulation. The results showed the following: (1) The government’s tax refund ratio and subsidy coefficient can significantly increase the motivation of construction enterprises and digital construction service providers within a certain threshold. (2) Whether enterprises carry out a comprehensive digital transformation depends on the revenue of the system solution strategy; the greater the revenue, the more positive the enterprises. (3) The adoption of high rewards and high penalties by the superior government can effectively encourage the local government to actively promote digital transformation. The contribution of this study lies in providing a theoretical basis and decision support for promoting the digital transformation of construction enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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14 pages, 1272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fostering Knowledge Collaboration in Construction Projects: The Role of BIM Application

by Jiajia Cheng, Lu Huang, Lixuan Jiang, Jianghong Chen, Wenwen Chen and Yuanping He

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 812; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030812 - 20 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2040

Abstract

Knowledge collaboration is beneficial for project parties to assess valuable knowledge resources from others in order to enhance their competitive advantages. However, knowledge collaboration is hampered by the special project environment and temporary structure of construction projects. Based on relational contract theory, this [...] Read more.

Knowledge collaboration is beneficial for project parties to assess valuable knowledge resources from others in order to enhance their competitive advantages. However, knowledge collaboration is hampered by the special project environment and temporary structure of construction projects. Based on relational contract theory, this study employs trust and relational norms as the two relational governance mechanisms for improving knowledge collaboration. Next, this study explores the effect of relational governance mechanisms on knowledge collaboration and the moderating role of the building information modelling (BIM) application level. We collected data from 166 responses in construction projects. Our results reveal that relational norms significantly impact knowledge collaboration, which is contrary to the effect of trust. Furthermore, the BIM application level has an interactive effect with relational norms, which improves knowledge collaboration. These findings reveal that the level of BIM application significantly affects the effectiveness of relational governance mechanisms. This study suggests that project managers should help project parties to develop BIM responsibilities in order to facilitate collaborative performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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19 pages, 1650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Applicability of the PPP in Tourist Toilets: Reflections on the Laoshan Case in China

by Juncheng Dai, Shiyuan Jiang and Zhe Cheng

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030790 - 17 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1178

Abstract

Although public–private partnerships (PPPs) for tourism have received extensive attention, there has been limited research on their application to tourist toilets. The purpose of this study was to systematically explore the applicability of PPPs with respect to the construction and operation of tourist [...] Read more.

Although public–private partnerships (PPPs) for tourism have received extensive attention, there has been limited research on their application to tourist toilets. The purpose of this study was to systematically explore the applicability of PPPs with respect to the construction and operation of tourist toilets. The study conducted field investigations and semi-structured interviews in the Qingdao Laoshan Scenic Area (LSA), where purposive sampling techniques were used to manage participant selection and expand sample sizes. It finds that first, the use of PPPs to build tourist toilets is new and has shown both development potential and challenges. Second, the use of PPPs to provide tourist toilets is not yet mature owing to management and supply inefficiencies. Third, the DBTO model in the Laoshan case offers a significant methodological value for similar PPP projects, which could be replicated and promoted more widely when certain conditions are met. This study has filled a research gap in the global toilet revolution and shows a different path from the investment guarantee system in developed Western countries and the Guilin model in China. This application of a PPP in provision of tourist toilets also broadens the knowledge base of researchers studying PPPs in the field of tourism and could lead to the development of a policy approach with respect to PPPs’ application in the toilet revolution and regional tourism development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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23 pages, 1775 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Model That Sees Human Resources as a Key Element for Competitiveness in Construction Management

by Rubén Romo, Francisco Orozco, Eric Forcael and Francisco Moreno

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030774 - 15 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1469

Abstract

The construction industry is continuously affected by external and internal agents that modify and define its competitiveness. Changing markets, currency fluctuations, and tremendous competition have made the issue of competitiveness increasingly important. The literature highlights factors that determine the competitiveness of construction firms, [...] Read more.

The construction industry is continuously affected by external and internal agents that modify and define its competitiveness. Changing markets, currency fluctuations, and tremendous competition have made the issue of competitiveness increasingly important. The literature highlights factors that determine the competitiveness of construction firms, including easy-to-measure elements, such as financial, sales, return on investment, etc., while other elements are not as easily measurable, such as customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, loyalty, and leadership, among many others. Within these factors, Human Resources (HR) has occupied a central place in the last decade, due to the enormous impact that labor has on project execution. This research mainly focuses on the study of HR and its components to reach a deeper understanding of the impact that HR has on the competitiveness of construction companies. After defining the most relevant variables, an interrelationships model was proposed with the Partial Least Square (PLS) technique. These HR variables impact the competitiveness variables: cost, utility, time, quality, Staff retention, and Health & Safety. The PSL analyses met the evaluation criteria using the structural model, confirming its viability. It was found that there are three important variables related to competitiveness: (i) leadership, (ii) innovation, and (iii) competitiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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19 pages, 2302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Contractual Flexibility Affect a Contractor’s Opportunistic Behavior? Roles of Justice Perception and Communication Quality

by Lianying Zhang and Guannan Xi

Buildings 2023, 13(3), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13030615 - 26 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1498

Abstract

Owing to the natural complexity and uncertainty of construction projects, more and more contracts tend to add flexibility to be able to deal with emergencies, thus promoting the smooth implementation of projects. Contractual flexibility has a certain impact on contractors’ opportunistic behavior, but [...] Read more.

Owing to the natural complexity and uncertainty of construction projects, more and more contracts tend to add flexibility to be able to deal with emergencies, thus promoting the smooth implementation of projects. Contractual flexibility has a certain impact on contractors’ opportunistic behavior, but because of the lack of relevant empirical studies, its influencing mechanism and conclusions have been controversial. The purpose of this paper is to reveal whether and how contractual flexibility restrains a contractor’s opportunistic behavior. In this paper, data are collected from 290 responses to an opinion questionnaire survey and are analyzed with partial-least-squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that contractual flexibility can restrain a contractor’s opportunistic behavior, and the relationships are mediated by a contractor’s interorganizational justice perceptions. Meanwhile, the communication quality can strengthen the effect of contractual flexibility on interorganizational justice perceptions and opportunistic behavior. The research conclusions of this paper not only deepen scholars’ understanding of contractual flexibility in the field of construction projects but also provide a solid theoretical basis for future in-depth research. The conclusions also provide some practical suggestions for managers of construction projects, emphasizing the important role of contractual flexibility, interorganizational justice perception, and communication quality in restraining contractors’ opportunistic behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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20 pages, 2007 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of Urban Water Environment Treatment PPP Projects Based on Cloud Model and OWA Operator

by Hongbo Jiao, Yongchao Cao and Huimin Li

Buildings 2023, 13(2), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13020417 - 02 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1450

Abstract

The public-private partnership (PPP) model has become one of the marketization models for water environment treatment projects. Evaluating the performance of these projects is vital for their long-term success. Performance evaluations can inform the government when allocating expenditures for the operation and maintenance [...] Read more.

The public-private partnership (PPP) model has become one of the marketization models for water environment treatment projects. Evaluating the performance of these projects is vital for their long-term success. Performance evaluations can inform the government when allocating expenditures for the operation and maintenance of services and can guide the private sector’s operation and maintenance management of projects. By attending to the specific characteristics of urban water environment treatment PPP projects (UWETP-PPP), this study developed a performance evaluation system and corresponding performance evaluation model comprised of eight first-level indicators and fifty second-level indicators. This model was used to evaluate a water environment treatment and ecological restoration project located in Xuchang, China. The results generated by the performance evaluation model indicated that this project was satisfactory and used the PPP model with a very high level of success, which accurately reflected real-world assessments of the project and verified the effectiveness of the model. This research provides guidance for the government in designing a performance evaluation mechanism that implements the specific characteristics of PPP projects. It also provides practical value for the operation management and performance improvement of PPP projects in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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23 pages, 4008 KiB

Open AccessReview

Megaproject Governance Research in China: A Review and Visual Analysis from the Whole Life Cycle Perspective

by Jiyong Ding, Guiyu Zhang and Meng Sun

Buildings 2023, 13(6), 1443; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13061443 - 31 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1259

Abstract

At present, the number of megaprojects in China is rapidly increasing, with multiple projects ranked as the world’s highest. To showcase the theoretical and practical achievements of China’s megaprojects to the world, a visual analysis was carried out using CiteSpace software based on [...] Read more.

At present, the number of megaprojects in China is rapidly increasing, with multiple projects ranked as the world’s highest. To showcase the theoretical and practical achievements of China’s megaprojects to the world, a visual analysis was carried out using CiteSpace software based on data from 520 pieces of core literature related to megaproject governance in the CNKI database from 2001 to 2023. Our findings indicate that: the number of publications has significantly increased since 2016, with a core group of researchers significantly contributing to this field, while team collaboration needs to be strengthened; the research hotspots include social stability risks, transaction governance, and innovation in megaprojects; the research can be divided into three stages, starting with early macro-studies, gradually forming clear and hierarchical research branches, and beginning to develop in the direction of Chinese characteristics and innovative deepening in recent years; research on the megaproject governance system is becoming gradually more enriched, but there is a lack of research at the levels of top-level governance and operational governance. Finally, in order to advance the study of megaproject governance in China, future research directions are suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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23 pages, 5832 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainability and Digital Transformation within the Project Management Area: A Science Mapping Approach

by Lihong Zhang, Saeed Reza Mohandes, Yizhuo Tong, Clara Cheung, Saeed Banihashemi and Miyuan Shan

Buildings 2023, 13(5), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13051355 - 22 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2315

Abstract

Although many studies have focused on digital transformation and sustainability within the realm of project management, there has been a lack of research that comprehensively reviews the current state of the art of the aforementioned subject using a holistic approach. This oversight hampers [...] Read more.

Although many studies have focused on digital transformation and sustainability within the realm of project management, there has been a lack of research that comprehensively reviews the current state of the art of the aforementioned subject using a holistic approach. This oversight hampers the amalgamation of DT and sustainability in project management, waning the steps to be taken for the realisation of a smart and sustainable built environment. To fill the identified knowledge gap, this study presents a science mapping approach to meticulously examine the literature published on DT and sustainability within the realm of project management. In doing so, a bibliometric review together with a comprehensive Scientometric mapping analysis was carried out on the literature published from 2011 to 2022. The findings obtained in this study provide insightful accounts for both project managers and academics. Project managers are not only enlightened on revamping their business models but are also given insights into utilising digital strategies for bringing the maximum level of sustainability into their projects. Meanwhile, researchers are given insight into the emerging trends, timelines, and emerging streams that will be explored in future endeavours. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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Other

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17 pages, 2301 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Building Water Quality Commissioning in Healthcare Settings: Reducing Legionella and Water Contaminants Utilizing a Construction Scheduling Method

by Molly M. Scanlon, James L. Gordon and Kelly A. Reynolds

Buildings 2023, 13(10), 2533; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings13102533 - 07 Oct 2023

Viewed by 2199

Abstract

Construction activities in healthcare settings potentially expose building occupants to life-threatening waterborne pathogens, including Legionella. The lack of a building water quality commissioning (BWQC) process has been identified as a substantial construction risk factor associated with disease cases and deaths. A BWQC [...] Read more.

Construction activities in healthcare settings potentially expose building occupants to life-threatening waterborne pathogens, including Legionella. The lack of a building water quality commissioning (BWQC) process has been identified as a substantial construction risk factor associated with disease cases and deaths. A BWQC schedule method was developed as a technical note to address gaps between the construction, commissioning, and operation phases of work to establish water quality and safety for a building water distribution system. The BWQC schedule method enables healthcare organizations to meet commissioning criteria set forth in guidelines and regulatory requirements for implementing a water management program (WMP) prior to initiating patient care operations. The authors used Office Timeline^® Pro+Edition V7.02, Office Timeline LLC, Bellevue WA 98004, USA to depict a Gantt chart as a BWQC schedule listing key project tasks and milestones of construction and water management activities. Design and construction professionals, in conjunction with healthcare organizations, should examine the BWQC construction schedule method and customize it for project-specific implementation. Additionally, building owners should consider incorporating the method into an organization’s construction policies for a standardized approach to BWQC practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Project Management in Construction)

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