Earned Value Management (EVM) is a project management technique for measuring project progress in terms of cost, schedule and scope, and has developed into a very effective way to uncover performance problems at an early and correctible stage in any given project. From its earliest days as a financial analysis tool in the US in the early 1960 s, it steadily grew in use through the US Department of Defense until it was made the standard measurement for all DoD, NASA, and Department of Energy projects, and was widely adopted by publicly-traded companies trying to comply with the 2002 Sarbanes-Oxley ruling calling for greater transparency and accountability. It has also long been used in software engineering projects.

Winning the 2008 Research Award from IPMA for his research leading to this proposed book, author Mario Vanhoucke has surveyed the published literature to find and evaluate the effectiveness of the latest developments (and established practices) in EVM. After first explaining the fundamentals and terminology of the practice, he explores all the latest research trends and then tests them against a group of fictitious projects to gauge their effectiveness, offering general results applicable to a wide set of project types that researchers and practitioners can use to expand their work in EVM-managed projects. With a focus on the simple calculations behind EVM systems, Vanhoucke shows how they can often lead to misinterpretation and frustration and how to avoid common mistakes.

Meant to complement rather than compete with the existing books on the subject, the proposed book deals with the project performance and control phases of the project life cycle to present a detailed investigation of the project s time performance measurement methods and risk analysis techniques in order to evaluate existing and newly developed methods in terms of their abilities to improve the corrective actions decision-making process during project tracking. As readers apply what is learned from the book, EVM practices will become even more effective in project management and cost engineering. Individual chapters look at simulation studies in forecast accuracy (under nine different scenarios); schedule adherence; time sensitivity; activity sensitivity; and using top-down or bottom-up project tracking. Vanhoucke also offers an actual real-life case study, a tutorial on the use of ProTrack software (newly developed based on his research) in EVM, and conclusions on the relative effectiveness for each technique presented. This will be an important read for anyone researching, using, or studying EVM and will certainly help to push the field forward in the coming years.

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This book highlights the design, use and structure of blockchain systems and decentralized ledger technologies (B/DLT) for use in the construction industry. Construction remains a fragmented change-resistant industry with chronic problems of underproductivity and a very low digitization factor compared to other fields. In parallel, the convergence, embedding and coordination of digital technologies in the physical world provides a unique opportunity for the construction industry to leap ahead and adopt fourth industrial revolution technologies. Within this context, B/DLT are an excellent fit for the digitization of the construction industry. B/DLT are effective in this as they organize and align digital and physical supply chains, produce stigmergic coordination out of decentralization, enable the governance of complex projects for multiple stakeholders, while enabling the creation of a new class of business models and legal instruments for construction.

Brickwork made easy - a step-by-step guide provides an introduction to the materials and techniques used when working with bricks or blocks made from concrete and clay. It details methods used to mix and lay concrete for foundations or garden paths, walkways and stairs, and illustrates techniques for plastering walls. There are also easy-to-follow guidelines to familiarise the amateur with the vital building principles required to succeed with an impressive range of brickwork projects.

This book presents papers from the 10th Applied Research Conference in Africa (ARCA), showcasing the latest research on education and inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities. The conference is focused on applied research discussion and its dissemination, developing understanding about the role of research and researchers in the development of the continent. Education is a key driver to transform lives, build peace, eradicate poverty and drive sustainable development in Africa. Researchers face large challenges to making a meaningful contribution to the development of Africa. It is a continent where research can at time be not viewed directly related to development. The aim of the Applied Research Conference in Africa is to provide a platform for capacity building and networking among researchers in Africa. The proceedings is focussed on applied research, its discussion and dissemination and will be if interest to researchers, professors, graduate students, policymakers and professionals in industry.

This book is focused on the challenges of digital transition in building construction, and potential solutions through the use of multi-criteria analysis. It provides clear explanations of proposed approaches from both a theoretical and practical point of view, including augmented reality and user-reporting. New Approaches for Multi-Criteria Analysis in Constructions begins by explaining classic multi-criteria analysis methods, such as Analytic Hierarchy Processes and the Simos-Roy-Figueira method, before moving on to discuss Augmented Reality - Decision Making. This new approach provides a tool to investigate user's perceptions, and utilises an interactive experience of the real-world environment combined with classic methods to provide a large amount of visual information. Finally, a detailed guide to user-reporting is presented. Offering new possibilities for applying multi-criteria analysis in a simpler, faster and more accessible way, this book supports analysis which considers users experience and perception. Architects, engineers, researchers and practitioners will be able to utilise augmented reality environments, multi-criteria analysis and user reporting for the building design choices, supply selection, maintenance strategies, risk and complex performance assessment.

This book examines the burgeoning revolution in the construction industry known as Construction 4.0, the attendant need for re-skilling human resources, and key stakeholders' roles in developing the required skills for Construction 4.0. It views the lack of 21st-century skills and skills gap in the industry as significant challenges limiting the uptake and implementation of Construction 4.0 technologies, especially in developing countries. In order to determine the skills required, this book examines the critical technologies of Construction 4.0, such as building information modelling (BIM), robotic construction, 3D printing and drones, which have transformed the construction industry, thereby creating digital, intelligent and sustainable construction solutions. Furthermore, the book considers the benefits, risks and relevant skills required to implement Construction 4.0 technologies.

Automation and Robotics in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry provides distinct and unified insight into current and future construction robotics, offering readers a comprehensive perspective for constructing a road map and illuminating improvements for a successful transition towards construction robotization. The book covers the fundamentals and applications of robotics, autonomous vehicles, and human-perceptive machines at construction sites. Through theoretical and experimental analyses, it examines the potential of robotics and automated systems for current and future fieldwork operations and identifies the factors that determine their implementation pace, adoption scale, and ubiquity throughout the industry. The book evaluates the technical, societal, and economic aspects of adopting robots in construction, both as standalone and collaborative systems, which in return can afford the opportunity to investigate these AI-enabled machines more systematically.

This book discusses environmental management and construction management approaches to the environmental problems that can emerge in construction projects. It sets a brand new standard for environmental management in mega construction projects in China and helps all construction project stakeholders establish a more compliant and efficient environmental management system. The authors systematically explore management systems and team management, offering managerial methods and tips based on international and Chinese practices. Outlining all the environmental challenges that can arise during construction, it is a valuable resource for company owners, construction contractors, and construction management consultants and companies. It also offers useful insights for engineers, project managers and project executives.

This book gathers the latest advances, innovations, and applications in built environment, as presented by international researchers at the 15th Built Environment Conference, held in Durban, South Africa, on September 27-28, 2021, and organized by the Association of Schools of Construction of Southern Africa (ASOCSA). The overarching theme of the conference was "Construction in 5D: Deconstruction, Digitalization, Disruption, Disaster, Development", with contributions focusing on current trends, innovations, opportunities and challenges, policies and procedures, legislation and regulations, practices and case studies, in both the public and private sectors. The volume will contribute to the existing body of knowledge relative to the science and practice of construction not only in South Africa but wherever the products of construction are produced even in these new challenging times of fear and uncertainty.

The book reports on the great improvements in the information and knowledge management due to the digitalization of the building sector. By summarizing several research projects addressing the implementation of BIM in different stages of the building process, and the definition of standards at Italian, European and international levels for managing information relying on the implementation of BIM-based processes, it showcases the efforts, especially within the Italian building sector, to build a standardized structure of information and develop tools for collecting, sharing and exchanging information between stakeholders involved in different stages of the building process, so as to enhance the storage, traceability, usability and re-usability of information management. Further, it presents an enhanced use of information that relies on the adoption of the standardized structure of information, and proposes dedicated applications for automating the process of information fruition. Lastly, it features a digital platform for different stakeholders in the building sector, such as manufacturers, producers and construction companies.

This exceptionally produced trainee guide features a highly illustrated design, technical hints and tips from industry experts, review questions and a whole lot more! Key content includes: Introduction to HVAC, Trade Mathematics, Basic Electricity, Introduction to Heating, Introduction to Cooling, Introduction to Air Distribution Systems, Basic Copper and Plastic Piping Practices, Soldering and Brazing, and Basic Carbon Steel Piping Practices. Instructor Supplements Instructors: Product supplements may be ordered directly through OASIS at http://oasis.pearson.com. For more information contact your Pearson NCCER Sales Specialist at http://nccer.pearsonconstructionbooks.com/store/sales.aspx. Instructor's Resource's (978-0-1-3489815-5) - Available on the Instructor Resource Center at www.nccerirc.com. Downloadable instructor resources include PowerPoints, Lesson Plans, Performance Profile Sheets, Test Questions, and TestGen software. Access Card ONLY for NCCERconnect Trainee Guide (does not include print book) 978-0-13-518706-7 ELECTRONIC Access Code ONLY for NCCERconnect Trainee Guide (must be ordered electronically via OASIS; does not include print book) 978-0-13-518702-9

As an expansion of the book "Construction Dispute Research" published in 2014, this book presents further contributions and breaks into three new research foci in construction dispute studies. Part A discusses the conceptualization and minimization of biases in construction dispute decisions; Part B examines other impediments against settlement such as inequity, power asymmetry and loss aversion. Part C focuses on realty check of construction dispute negotiation conditions such as market competition, interdependence of contracting parties and dispute avoidance function of construction incentivization. This book showcases new ideas in construction dispute research. It offers research studies that are theory rich and conducted with robust methodologies. The research implications are practical and implementable.

This book presents select proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Advances in Civil Engineering (ICACE 2020), covering basic civil engineering branches. The book covers some hands-on articles on different realistic problems in civil engineering. It highlights the current application of advanced civil engineering knowledge in developing countries. Various topics covered include construction and building materials, eco-friendly ground improvement, water and wastewater management, solid waste management, durability of concrete structures, various aspects of foundation engineering, transportation engineering & planning scenarios in developing countries, and highway materials. A few articles also discussed the advancement in civil engineering fields from global perspectives too. The book will be useful for professionals and researchers working in the area of civil engineering.

This book gathers the latest advances, innovations, and applications in the field of environmental and construction engineering, as presented by international researchers and engineers at the 2nd International Conference on Efficient Production and Processing, held on February 25-26, 2021. It covers highly diverse topics, including use of secondary raw materials in construction technologies; urban waste management logistics; use of recycled materials in road construction; safety and security in waste handling; food science and agriculture; waste and water treatment; and environmental economics. The contributions, which were selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, highlight numerous exciting ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster multidisciplinary collaborations.

This co-edited book focuses on the state-of-the-art research in transportation in India. Exploring the need for a sustainable transport paradigm in India, this timely book offers solution concepts for mobility and infrastructure challenges faced by local, state, and national transport authorities. The contents provide a holistic understanding of the paradigm, considering several case-studies and study findings from the leading transportation researchers in India. At the same time, it also addresses the pressing transportation related challenges such as road user safety, traffic operation efficiency, economic and social development, non-motorized transport planning, environmental impact mitigation, energy consumption reduction, land-use, equity, freight transport planning, multimodal coordination, access for the diverse range of travellers' needs, sustainable pavement construction, and emerging vehicle technologies. The existing practices and policies in all the sectors and levels of transport are highlighted in this book with an emphasis on a broader vision for achieving sustainable and inclusive development. The information and data-driven inferences compiled in the book will be useful for practitioners, policymakers, educators, researchers, students, and individual learners.

This book gathers selected contributions in the field of civil and structural engineering, as presented by international researchers and engineers at the International Conference on Materials Physics, Building Structures and Technologies in Construction, Industrial and Production Engineering (MPCPE), held in Vladimir, Russia on April 26-28 2021. The book covers a wide range of topics including the theory and design of capital construction facilities, engineering and hydraulic structures; development of innovative solutions in the field of modeling and testing of reinforced concrete, metal and wooden structures, as well as composite structures based on them; investigation of complex dynamic effects on construction objects, and many others directions. Intended for professional builders, designers and researchers. The contributions, which were selected by means of a rigorous international peer-review process, highlight numerous exciting ideas that will spur novel research directions and foster multidisciplinary collaborations.

This volume provides practical advice on subjects such as framework, design and construction, timber floor construction and arch centres. It stresses the practices of sound craftsmanship, utilising the correct tools and materials.

For most of human history, people have lived in durable, comfortable buildings made from natural materials such as soil, sand, rocks, and fiber. All over the globe, these ancient traditions persist; a quarter to a third of the world's population today lives in houses built partially or entirely of earth. Conventional Western building techniques using industrial materials may save time and create efficiencies, but these perceived savings come at considerable financial and environmental cost.

As well as boasting a unique and beautiful aesthetic, natural building techniques are accessible, affordable, and non-toxic. "Earthen Floors: A Modern Approach to an Ancient Practice" is the first comprehensive, fully illustrated manual covering the history, use, and maintenance of this attractive, practical flooring option. This detailed, fully illustrated guide explains every part of the process, including:

• Sourcing and harvesting materials
• Preparing the subfloor
• Pouring, finishing, and sealing the floor
• Living with and maintaining your earthen floor

Because information on creating quality earthen floors was not previously widely available, there have been some negative experiences. Drawing on the combined knowledge of the most qualified earthen floor practitioners, as well their own substantial experience, the authors deliver the definitive resource for this exciting technique, perfect for everyone from the novice to veteran builder.

Sukita Reay Crimmel has installed over twenty thousand square feet of earthen flooring, and is one of the preeminent experts in the emerging field of earthen floors.

James Thomson is part of House Alive, one of the leading natural building training organizations in the country.

For courses in architectural drafting and design, and electrical and mechanical systems design. Complete guide to designing modern mechanical and electrical systems Mechanical and Electrical Systems in Buildings illuminates the modern realities of planning and constructing buildings with efficient, sustainable mechanical and electrical systems. This complete guide serves as a text and a reference for students and professionals interested in an interactive, multidisciplinary approach to the building process, which is necessary for sustainable design. Responding to continual advancements in the field, the 6th edition incorporates new developments in all its major disciplines, including electrical, lighting, telecommunications, plumbing, and HVAC.

This book is the third in a series of volumes that combine conservation philosophy in the built environment with knowledge of traditional materials, and structural and constructional conservation techniques and technology: Understanding Historic Building ConservationStructures & Construction in Historic Building ConservationMaterials & Skills for Historic Building Conservation

The series aims to introduce each aspect of conservation and to provide concise, basic and up-to-date knowledge for architects, surveyors and engineers as well as for commissioning client bodies, managers and advisors.

In each book, Michael Forsyth draws together chapters by leading architects, structural engineers and related professionals to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of conservation work. The books are structured to be of direct practical application, taking the reader through the process of historic building conservation and emphasising throughout the integrative teamwork involved.

The present volume - "Materials & Skills for Historic Building Conservation" - describes the characteristics and process of decay of traditional materials which inform the selection of appropriate repair techniques.

It provides essential information on the properties of the principal traditional external building materials. Their availability, sourcing and environmental impact is covered, as well as the causes of erosion and decay, and the skills required for their application on conservation projects.

It covers the main most commonly used materials and conservation techniques including stone, brickwork, lime products, concrete, iron and steel, timber, wattle and daub, and glass,

Thirteen chapters written by the experts present today's key issues in materials and skills for historic building conservation: Gus Astley, Patrick Baty, Charley Brentnall, Michael Bussell, Michael Forsyth, Tony Graham, Chris Harris, David McLaughlin, Brian Ridout, Mike Stock, Geoff Wallis, Ian Williams, Rory Young

Written for students taking courses in building and surveying, 'Estimating for Builders and Surveyors' describes and explains the method used by the estimator to build up prices or rates for items described in the SMM7 format. Each chapter is a self-contained unit related to a particular element in the building. Worked examples throughout reflect both traditional and up-to-date technology. Written by an author team of academics and professional surveyors, this book continues to be an invaluable introduction to the subject of estimating.

Regarded by many as the stonemason's bible, Practical Masonry has for many years been one of the best technical stone masonry books available for both apprentices and experienced masons. Originally written in 1896 and published by Crosby Lockwood & Son of London, it met with great acclaim and the correspondence received by the author was that of thanks and praise at such a well written and concise technical book. Following the constructive feedback W R Purchase wrote a second edition in which he included three more chapters: Roman and Grecian moldings (both illustrative) and a glossary of terms. This work was then followed by further editions and by 1904 when the fifth edition was published Purchase had added further chapters including: Masonry Estimating and Quantity Surveying; Building Stones, marble and granite (including detailed lists of specific stones available) and finally Tables of Diameters, Circumferences and Areas of circles. As with many technical books that go out of print it became more difficult for people to purchase this book as the years passed. This latest edition published by Donhead Publishing will ensure that the work of W R Purchase can again reach and assist all those who study or are involved with this ancient craft.

For centuries, the steel square has been a mainstay in the toolbox of skilled craftsmen. In the hands of someone who knows how to use it, this simple tool can quickly solve many common construction problems involving angles, arcs, circles, and squares. With the help of the "Essential Guide to the Steel Square, anyone can unlock the helpful secrets of this valuable, time-honored tool. Packed with hundreds of clear illustrations and diagrams, skill-building exercises, and simple rules of thumb, this handy reference will show any curious carpenter, woodworker, or serious do-it-yourselfer how indispensable the steel square can be in building stairs, roofs, rafters, and practically anything else. No batteries are required your steel square can solve many problems that your smart phone can't!

Electrical services are a vital component in any building, so it is necessary for construction professionals to understand the basic principle of services design. Design of Electrical Services for Buildings provides a basic grounding for students and graduates in the field. It covers methods of wiring, schemes of distribution and protection for lighting and power installations. Systems such as alarms and standby supplies are also covered. Each method is described in detail and examples of calculations are given.

For this fourth edition, the coverage of wiring and electrical regulations have been brought fully up to date, and the practical information has been revised.

This volume outlines a progressively staged process focused on fostering a more effective, more efficient, and greener global construction industry. The research-based book commences with an evaluation of eight methodologies identified after a worldwide literature and compliance review. It is followed by a more detailed report on four of these options, with the ultimate objective of independent selection within the construction engineering community of a single most appropriate methodology as the approach for further, more-detailed investigation. The eight methodologies were selected against six key performance indicators developed as assessment criteria and include knowledge management, lean construction, construction contract procurement practices, optimal work duration on site, construction site waste, rationalization of construction safety regulations, sustainable construction labor force, and portfolio project development. A primary outcome of the selected methodology being a triple bottom-line benefit to key stakeholders, commercially and also to the ecology, along with the community at large. Front-end construction waste strategies to serve as best practices to minimize waste generated by construction projects was the methodology selected for detailed research. The text also covers the primary sources of construction waste. The book is ideal for civil and construction engineers as well as project developers; managers and public sector waste management specialists.