World Construction SymposiumWCShttp://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/150812024-03-29T12:03:43Z2024-03-29T12:03:43ZBarriers to the adoption of emerging technologies for sustainable construction in SMEs.Adekunle, SAigbavboa, CEjohwomu, OOgunbayo, Bhttp://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/214632023-10-13T02:30:16Z2023-07-21T00:00:00ZBarriers to the adoption of emerging technologies for sustainable construction in SMEs.
Adekunle, S; Aigbavboa, C; Ejohwomu, O; Ogunbayo, B
The construction industry activities contribute to and impact the environment; hence the industry continuously strives to adopt sustainable principles into its process and products. Another critical aspect to achieving this in the current technological revolution is the adoption of technology for achieving sustainable construction. Various technologies are available and have been explored to achieve sustainable construction. However, there is a dearth of studies on adopting technology for sustainable construction by construction SMEs and from the perspective of developing countries. This study investigates the adoption of technology for sustainable construction by SMEs in the South African construction industry. A total of eighty responses were collected through well-structured questionnaires administered randomly. It was observed that all barriers are significant, but the most significant barrier is the high cost of adopting technologies. The study recommends the provision of financial incentives and support for SMEs. Also, SMEs must not resist change birthed by the adoption of technology for sustainable construction.
2023-07-21T00:00:00ZEncumbrances of the competitiveness of south African construction organisations in the business environment of other African countriesIkuabe, MAigbavboa, CAdekunle, Shttp://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/214622023-10-13T02:29:30Z2023-07-21T00:00:00ZEncumbrances of the competitiveness of south African construction organisations in the business environment of other African countries
Ikuabe, M; Aigbavboa, C; Adekunle, S
The study aims to assess the challenges posed to the competitiveness of South African construction contractors in other African countries. This was instituted to formulate a pathway for the penetration of South African contractors into the business environment of other African countries. The study employed a quantitative method underpinned by a post-positivism philosophical approach using a questionnaire as the research instrument. The target respondent of the study was construction professionals, while the study area was Gauteng province of South Africa. The data analysis methods were mean item score, Kruskal-Wallis h-test, and Student Newman Kaul post hoc test. Findings from the study showed that the most significant challenges faced by South African construction organisations in exploring business opportunities in other African countries are collusive acts, high cost of financing, lack of technical skills, and difficulties in obtaining loans. Also, the difference in viewpoints given by the sampled professionals is outlined in the study’s findings. Based on the results obtained from the analysis, the study made recommendations that would aid the competitive capabilities of South African construction organisations in the business landscape of other African countries.
2023-07-21T00:00:00ZUtilising smart visitor management system to enhance sustainable practices in high-rise buildings in Sri LankaChandani, GGNAsmone, AShttp://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/213462023-10-13T00:20:11Z2023-07-21T00:00:00ZUtilising smart visitor management system to enhance sustainable practices in high-rise buildings in Sri Lanka
Chandani, GGN; Asmone, AS
With the growing importance of sustainability and environmental conservation, effectively managing visitor flows in high-rise buildings poses unique challenges and opportunities. Smart visitor management systems (SVMSs) offer innovative solutions to optimise resource allocation, minimise waste generation, and promote eco-friendly practices in this context. Through an in-depth analysis of relevant data, case studies, and expert perspectives, this study investigates the implementation and potential benefits of smart visitor management systems (SVMSs) in high-rise buildings, with a specific emphasis on sustainability. The findings reveal that the adoption of these systems can lead to significant positive impacts, including improved energy efficiency through intelligent lighting and HVAC controls, reduced carbon emissions by streamlining transportation and parking, enhanced waste management through digital registrations and real-time monitoring, and improved visitor experiences through streamlined check-ins and personalised services. Moreover, the integration of smart visitor management systems (SVMSs) enables high-rise buildings to achieve sustainability certifications and contribute to the overall environmental goals of Sri Lanka. The article also addresses the potential challenges and considerations associated with implementing these systems, such as data security and privacy concerns, initial investment costs, and the need for stakeholder collaboration. The insights derived from this study provide valuable guidance for building owners, facility managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in sustainable practices in high-rise buildings in Sri Lanka and similar contexts.
2023-07-21T00:00:00ZUse of building information modelling to mitigate cost overruns in design and build projectsChamikara, KLPerera, BAKSKurukulasooriya, INhttp://dl.lib.uom.lk/handle/123/213452023-10-13T00:20:14Z2023-07-21T00:00:00ZUse of building information modelling to mitigate cost overruns in design and build projects
Chamikara, KL; Perera, BAKS; Kurukulasooriya, IN
Cost overrun in the design and build (D&B) procurement method is a significant obstacle in achieving the project goals. Therefore, it has become critical consideration over its numerous benefits when selecting this procurement method. However, applying new technologies, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), can significantly minimise this issue. Thus, this study aims to investigate the use of BIM to manage the cost overrun issues in D&B projects. A qualitative approach based on two rounds of interviews was conducted to collect the data. The study findings revealed ten highly important causes of cost overrun in D&B projects. Continuous design and drawings changes due to incomplete initial drawings prepared with insufficient design data at tendering stage, errors or omissions revealed during construction, and inefficient planning and scheduling by the contractor were the top three causes. Further, BIM functions such as interoperability and exchange of information, clash detection, digitalised quantity take off, and cloud computing were identified as they can be used to manage highly important causes of cost overrun in D&B projects. This research assists professionals in identifying the most appropriate BIM functions to reduce the fear of price uncertainty when implementing the D&B procurement method in their projects. Further research on identifying the barriers and suitable strategies for implementing BIM in D&B projects to reduce cost overrun can be based on the present study.
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