This book focuses on the implementation of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) in the construction industry as a tool to help building designers arrive at optimal decisions for external envelope systems with sustainable and buildable design goals. In particular, the book integrates special features into the conventional QFD tool to enhance its performance. These features include a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making method, fuzzy consensus scheme, and Knowledge Management System (KMS). This integration results in a more robust decision support tool, known as the Knowledge-based Decision Support System QFD (KBDSS-QFD) tool. As an example, the KBDSS-QFD tool is used for the assessment of building envelope materials and designs for high-rise residential buildings in Singapore in the early design stage. The book provides the reader with a conceptual framework for understanding the development of the KBDSS-QFD tool. The framework is presented in a generalized form in order to benefit building professionals, decision makers, analysts, academics and researchers, who can use the findings as guiding principles to achieve optimal solutions and boost efficiency.

As usage of the NEC family of contracts continues to grow worldwide, so does the importance of understanding its clauses and nuances to everyone working in the built environment. Understanding the NEC4 ECC Contract uses plain English to lead the reader through the NEC4 Engineering and Construction Contract's key features. Chapters cover: The Contractor's main responsibilities the use of early warnings Contractor's design Tendering Quality management Payment Liabilities and insurance Termination Avoiding and resolving disputes and much more. Common problems experienced when using the Engineering and Construction Contract are signaled to the reader throughout, and the correct way of reading each clause explained. The way the contract effects procurement processes, dispute resolution, project management, and risk management are all addressed in order to direct the user to best practice. Written for construction professionals, by a practicing international construction contract consultant, this handbook is the most straightforward, balanced and practical guide to the NEC4 ECC available. An ideal companion for employers, contractors, project managers, supervisors, engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, subcontractors, and anyone else interested in working successfully with the NEC4 ECC.

The Chinese Research Institute of Construction Management (CRIOCM) in collaboration with Xi'an Jiaotong University proudly invites all academics, researchers and professionals to participate in the CRIOCM 2013, the 18th International Symposium on "Advancement of Construction Management and Real Estate". We will uphold and preserve the idea and tradition of pragmatism and innovation, to offer an excellent academic and communication platform for academics and professionals to exchange information on the latest developments in real estate and construction management.

This unique book that deals with project communication management in complex environments, taking a leaf from China s experience with a major earthquake in Sichuan, would be a timely contribution to fill this lacuna. Readers would be able to understand how companies and organizations that are unprepared for crisis management would react to their detriment. The lessons provided in this book are the only one of its kind to highlight the lessons for companies and organizations to prepare themselves for successful project communication management through the complexity-informed framework. Although the book is written by two building professionals, the concepts and lessons presented are generic and equally applicable for businesses outside of the construction industry; for example, for airports, resorts, hotels, shipyards, etc."

Resource interdependence has driven economic integration in the Asia-Pacific. Through trade and investment ties, Northeast Asian steel industries have developed global production networks with mining industries on the Pacific Rim for the supply of steelmaking raw materials. But by spanning multiple national spaces, these production networks unite many national economies while belonging exclusively to none. Who, therefore, is in control? Jeffrey D. Wilson examines how states and firms coordinate their activities to govern global production in the Asia-Pacific steel industry.

Provides a practical design guide to the structural use of aluminium. The first chapters outline basic aluminium technology and the advantages of using aluminium in many structural applications. The major part of the book deals with structural design and presents very clear guidance for designers, with numerous diagrams, charts and examples.

Liability for the design of a building or structure is of fundamental concern to construction professionals, design-build contractors, specialist sub-contractors, and lawyers. Although other texts cover a wide range of aspects of liability, only "Cornes and Lupton's Design Liability in Construction "draws together all those matters that relate specifically to design.

A number of factors have come together recently and are addressed in this significant update and rewrite of the 4th edition, including: popularity of design & build procurementpartnering arrangements and early contractor involvementnew standard forms of construction contract and appointment, and revisions to older formstechnical innovations in constructioncollaborative working and BIM systemsmany well-publicised cases regarding design failuressignificant developments in the law of tort and professional liabilitythe development of the single European market and increased provision of services overseas

Together these factors create a new range of design liability issues which the construction professional has to face. Written for lawyers, architects, engineers, and contractors, the fifth edition of "Design Liability in Construction" will also serve as a useful text for masters level courses in engineering, surveying and construction law.

The construction industry as a workplace is commonly seen as problematic for a number of reasons, including its worrying health and safety record, the instability of its workforce, and the poorly regulated nature of the sector. It is surprising therefore, that the sector and its working practices remain so under-theorised.

Now though, there is a growing interest in and awareness of the utility of an ethnographic approach to the construction industry. Ethnographic Research in the Construction Industry draws together in one volume a set of expert contributions which demonstrate how social science perspectives, rooted in ethnographic research on construction sites and with construction workers themselves, can generate fresh insights into the social, cultural and material ways that the industry and conditions of work in it are experienced and played out.

Each chapter develops discussion on the basis of an ethnographic case study to examine how theoretically informed ethnographic research can help us understand industry problems, and can challenge common perceptions of the construction industry. This book will be of interest to students and scholars of anthropology, sociology, geography and organization studies, as well as those from the built environment and related applied fields.

Practical Project Management for Building and Construction covers the 14 knowledge areas of project management that are essential for successful projects in the construction industry. For each knowledge area, it explains the processes for scope, time, risk, cost, and resource management. Filled with work and process flow diagrams, it demonstrates how projects progress throughout the project life cycle. The book details the processes that must be included in the management process to deliver projects on time and within budget. The processes and knowledge areas described reference the ISO 10006 Standard (guidelines for quality management in projects), the international project management standards of the PMBOK (R) Guide, and the rapidly emerging ISO 21500 standard. Coverage includes change management, working environment, quality and communication, and procurement management. Illustrating the entire project process, this pioneering reference: Reports on regulations from the European Union and the United States that impact construction projects Identifies the knowledge areas a project manager must control Examines time-tested strategies, various types of contracts, remuneration forms, and contract close out Includes many examples and templates to help you generate essential project documents The book supplies accessible information on a range of helpful tools such as work breakdown structure and earned value. Explaining how to use a network diagram with its gaps and critical paths, the methods described in the text will help you control the WHAT, HOW, and WHEN to do things as well as WHO is responsible for doing them, which will lead to successful project management. Because a large part of the book addresses general project management concepts, the lessons learned will also be helpful to project managers outside the building and construction industry.

This new edition of Spon's Irish Construction Price Book, edited by Franklin & Andrews, is the only complete, tailored and up-to-date source of cost data for the Irish construction industry. This price book is an essential aid to profitable contracting for all those operating in Ireland's buoyant construction industry. All the materials costs, labour rates and costs per square metre are based on current conditions in Ireland, including information from specialist contractors and subcontractors. Data is based on current labour productivity norms, and updated to allow for changes in building regulations, legislative changes and working practices. It is structured according to the Agreed Rules of Measurement (Issue Three 2003). It includes revised Approximate Estimating Rates for quick pricing. It provides new material on location factors and inflation, with spotlights on life-cycle costing and sustainability.

The construction sector is one of the most complex and problematic arenas within which to manage people. As a result, the applicability of much mainstream human resource management (HRM) theory to this industry is limited. Indeed, the operational realities faced by construction organizations mean that all too often the needs of employees are subjugated by performance concerns. This has potentially dire consequences for those who work in the industry, for the firms that employ them and ultimately, for the prosperity and productivity of the industry as a whole. In this new edition of their leading text, Andrew Dainty and Martin Loosemore have assembled a collection of perspectives which critically examine key aspects of the HRM function in the context of contemporary construction organizations. Rather than simply update the previous edition, the aim of this second edition is to provide a more critical commentary on the ways in which the industry addresses the HRM function and how this affects those who work within the industry. To this end, the editors have gathered contributions from many of the leading thinkers within construction HRM to critique the perspectives presented in the first edition. Each contributor either tackles specific aspects of the HRM function, or provides a critical commentary on industry practice. The authors explain, using real-life case studies, the ways in which construction firms respond to the myriad pressures that they face through their HRM practices. Together the contributions encourage the reader to rethink the HRM function and its role in defining the employment relationship. This provides essential reading for students of construction and project management, and reflective practitioners who are interested in theoretically informed insights into industry practice and its implications.

Valuing People in Construction provides contemporary perspectives on the 'glue' that binds the construction process together; people. The book addresses people issues in the construction industry where behavioural outcomes impact upon business and project performance. The main proposition of the book is that as people continue to lead the completion of construction activities, their health, safety, and well-being should be seen as a priority, and valued by stakeholders. As employers and employees, the role of people in construction must be to strive for the improvement of individual lives and society. This edited collection, which is the first book to focus specifically on placing value on people in construction, focuses on people at work, gender at work, conditions at work, and respect at work. In addition to an editorial overview, the book presents tested and refined empirical work and case studies by leading construction researchers from Africa, Australia, and Europe. Essential reading for researchers, students and professionals interested in construction management, the sociology of construction, HRM in construction, gender, work and health studies.

Commerce is inherently complex and the sums of money involved can be astronomical, so it is no surprise that conflicts and disputes are all too common. There are numerous techniques designed to resolve these problems, and this book summarizes the most important of these, as well as alternative dispute resolution methods. The reader seeking a deeper understanding of these procedures will also find clear explanations of the principles and methods for conflict management, such as negotiation, risk management, mediation and conciliation.

As well as outlining these different techniques, guidance on which approach is appropriate in common situations is also given, helping the reader apply what they have learned to the real world. The significance of cultural issues is explained, before the reader is presented with suggestions for how to take these into account. Throughout, the book is illustrated with case studies from examples as diverse as Mumbai's DabbaWalla, The First World War and Terminal 5 at London Heathrow.

Written with undergraduate students in mind, this book also serves to give a neat and brief overview for professionals. Those studying or working in commerce generally, construction project management, construction management, and construction law will find this to be an invaluable book.

The construction industry is currently experiencing accelerating developments concerning societal demands along with project complexity, internationalization and digitalization. In an attempt to grasp the consequences of these demands on productivity and innovation, this edited book addresses how innovation is likely to take place with a more long-term perspective on the construction sector. While existing literature focuses on organizational discontinuity and fragmentation as the main reasons for the apparent lack of innovation in the industry, this book highlights the connectivity of construction actors, resources and activities as fundamental for understanding how innovation takes place.Through 15 empirically grounded chapters, the book shows how innovation is part of construction processes on various levels, including project, firm and industry, and that these innovation processes are characterized by organizational and technological connectivity over time. Written by European business management scholars, the chapters cover empirical cases and examples from both a multi-organizational and a multi-international perspective in terms of covering the viewpoints of different industry actors and the contexts of several different European countries including: Sweden, Norway, the UK, Italy, France, Hungary and Poland. By illustrating how connectivity is part of innovation processes in the creation of single-product innovations, of various innovations within and across projects, as well as a fundamental aspect of the processes in which innovations cross nations, the book provides a new angle on how to understand construction innovation and where the industry might (or needs to) be heading next. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in construction management, project management, engineering management, innovation studies, business and management studies.

Developing countries face the challenge of maintaining economic growth and socio-economic development, at the core of which sits the construction industry. Considerable research on construction in developing countries took place in the 1970's and 1980's, but little since, a gap which this book fills.

Including contributions from prominent academics and practitioners in Australia, China, the Netherlands, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, and the UK, this is a truly international analysis of a subject of global interest. The most insightful and relevant of recent research on topics such as Millennium Development Goals, the informal construction sector, human resource development, technology, finance and social change, are all addressed in the context of the construction industry in the developing world. Also considered are other key aspects of construction industry development such as institution building, nurturing of contractors and consultants and championing of industry development programmes.

While the challenge has grown and the needs have become even more pressing, the research to date has rarely presented effective solutions. Focussing on those aspects of the construction industry most crucial to development, this is a much needed up-to-date study that sheds new light on a variety of concepts and issues.

This is essential reading for researchers, professionals and students interested in the construction industry in developing countries. Readers of this book will be interested in its companion volume; Contemporary Issues of Construction in Developing Countries.

Written by a member of the FIDIC President's List of Adjudicators, this detailed and critical commentary on the FIDIC Red Book provides authoritative guidance and recommendations for best practice. Focusing on each Clause of the Condition of Contract, this book identifies pitfalls and logistics issues associated with its enforcement and ancillary processes, to give readers an advantage when operating with the FIDIC Red Book. Intended to promote the best use and growth of FIDIC, this guide will be essential for all users of the FIDIC Red Book, be they contractors, lawyers, engineers, students training to join these industries or any professional involved in the resolution of disputes involving the FIDIC Red Book.

This title was first published in 1976

Drawing on a wealth of practical experience, both in the construction industry and teaching students, Chris March presents this study of construction management and the major aspects of controlling the building process.

Covering the stages from the client's initiation, to the final handover of the building, March includes evidence from those currently working in the industry, and covers the key industry requirements: knowing that in today's market place, those entering the field must be aware of how projects are financed and controlled, and to financially run and maintain a building.

Finance and Control for Construction examines the various stages, from development, through the design, to procurement and post-contract processes, and culminates in a discourse on facilities management.

This book is written with a down-to-earth approach, with evidence supporting theories and principles, and is a book that students of construction management and related subjects need if they wish to succeed in the field.

Drawing on a wealth of practical experience, both in the construction industry and teaching students, Chris March presents this study of construction management and the major aspects of controlling the building process. Covering the stages from the client's initiation, to the final handover of the building, March includes evidence from those currently working in the industry, and covers the key industry requirements: knowing that in today's market place, those entering the field must be aware of how projects are financed and controlled, and to financially run and maintain a building. Finance and Control for Construction examines the various stages, from development, through the design, to procurement and post-contract processes, and culminates in a discourse on facilities management. This book is written with a down-to-earth approach, with evidence supporting theories and principles, and is a book that students of construction management and related subjects need if they wish to succeed in the field.

In September 1999, FIDIC introduced its new Suite of Contracts, which included a "new" Red, Yellow, Silver and Green forms of contract. The "new" Red Book was intended to replace the 1992 fourth edition of the Red Book, with the ambition that its use would cease with time. This ambition has not materialised and is unlikely to do so in the future.

Despite the importance of the 1999 Forms, there has been very little published on the new concepts adopted in them and how they interact with the previous forms. This important work considers these aspects together with the many developments affecting the fourth edition of the Red Book that have taken place since 1997, when the second edition of this book was published, and relates them to key contracting issues. It is written by a chartered engineer, conciliator and international arbitrator with wide experience in the use of the FIDIC Forms and in the various dispute resolution mechanisms specified in them.

Important features of this book include:

- background and concepts of the various forms of contract;

- a detailed comparison of the wording of the1999 three main forms, which although similar in nature; it nevertheless significantly differs in certain areas where the three forms diverge due to their intended purpose;

- analysis of the rights and obligations of the parties involved in the contract and the allocation of risks concerned;

- a range of 'decision tree' charts, analysing the main features of the 1992 Red Book, including risks, indemnities and insurances, claims and counterclaims, variations, procedure for claims, programme and delay, suspension, payments and certificates, dispute resolution mechanisms, and dispute boards;

- a much enlarged discussion of the meaning of "claim" and "dispute" and the types of claim with a discussion of the Notice provision in the 1999 forms of contract for the submittal of claims by a contractor and by an employer;

- the FIDIC scheme of indemnities and insurance requirements; and the methods of dispute resolution provided by the various forms of contract; and

- five new chapters in this third edition, the first four chapters deal with each of the 1999 forms and the fifth chapter is confined to the topic of Dispute Boards.

Recent decades have seen a major social and economic changes across the developed world and consequent changes in the construction and property industries. The discipline of construction economics needs to respond to this. For instance, the importance of sustainable development has become recognised, as has the need to increasingly master the medium and long-term consequences of construction, not only in the production but also in the management of buildings across their whole life-cycle. And the new focus on the service rendered by buildings, as distinct from the buildings themselves, has prompted a new approach to the construction and property industries. Any economic analysis of these sectors has to take account of all the participants involved in the life-cycle of building structures - not only in the design and construction, but also in the operation, maintenance, refurbishment and demolition of property. This innovative new book draws on the work of the Task Group of the CIB (International Council for Research and Innovation) on Macroeconomics for Construction. It pulls together discussions of mesoeconomic and macroeconomic models and methodologies in construction economics and presents an exciting approach to the analysis of the operation and function of the construction and property sector within the economy. Graduate students and researchers will find it an invaluable work.

This book contains the materials of the Conference "Construction and Development: Life Cycle-2020" (CDLC-2020), held at Chuvash State University, Russia. The content of this volume is devoted to improving methods for calculating building structures, strengthening them and assessing their suitability for use, monitoring buildings, improving building technologies, geotechnics, energy efficiency of building envelopes and energy systems, introducing new structures and materials, and economic assessment of construction. It also consists of test data for load-bearing building structures. This volume will prove to be a valuable resource for those in academia and industry.

Building automation systems and digital technologies are highly relevant for the environmental and energy performance of buildings. However, a clear gap remains between architectural engineering and the use of such technologies. Building Automation and Digital Technologies shows how to assimilate automation and digital technologies into making buildings smarter and more environmentally sustainable. This book shows why architects need smart and digital systems in building design and construction and promotes innovative technological tools for improving sustainability. It focuses on the development of automated environmental conditions and how new technology informs architectural engineering. The book also provides new evidence on the impact of building automation systems and digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and information and communication technology for developing a performance-based approach to the environmental sustainability of buildings, and provides a key reference for architects on how digital technology can inform their practice. Its four chapters cover: developing strategies for improving sustainable and smart buildings; architectural practice and construction technology; creativity and innovation in building automation systems; and the use phase of buildings. Building Automation and Digital Technologies meets a critical need for a sustainable and smart built environment from an architectural perspective, providing an important reference to architects and professionals in related fields by demonstrating the assimilation of the latest information and automation technologies.