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Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction
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Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Urban and Rural Development".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2018) | Viewed by 158155

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Bon-Gang Hwang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Building, School of Design and Environment, National University of Singapore, 4 Architecture Drive, Singapore 117566, Singapore
Interests: sustainable construction management; project performance assessment and improvement; project productivity innovation and improvement; project risk management and decision making
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Ming Shan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Civil Engineering, Central South University, 68 South Shaoshan Road, Changsha 410075, China
Interests: construction professional ethics; sustainable construction management; project assessment
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Along with a growing acknowledgement of sustainability among the global construction community, sustainable construction has achieved rapid growth over recent years. However, despite its prosperity, the sustainable construction sector is confronting various challenges and problems, particularly those from the perspective of management. Current literature shows that 30% of sustainable construction projects experience rework; 50% of sustainable construction projects are plagued by delay; and 90% of sustainable construction projects require cost premiums up to 21% to ensure their completion. In addition, existing research also show that sustainable construction projects are facing risks at a greater magnitude than conventional construction projects, and that sustainable construction projects have posed a greater safety hazard to frontline workers than conventional ones have. These sad facts are sending a strong signal to the authorities, industry and academia that, careful, close, and particular attention should now be devoted to management challenges and issues of sustainable construction projects. The purpose of this Special Issue of Sustainability is to solicit original theoretical, methodological, and empirical research papers relating to “Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction”. Review and opinion papers that summarize the state-of-the-art, research gaps and the further directions of the topic are also welcome.

Prof. Dr. Bon-Gang Hwang
Dr. Ming Shan
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Sustainable Development
  • Sustainable Construction Management
  • Sustainable Construction Economics
  • Sustainable Policy and Legislation
  • Ethics in Sustainable Construction
  • Environmental Impacts of Sustainable Construction
  • Green Building Project Management

Published Papers (19 papers)

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Editorial

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3 pages, 167 KiB  
Editorial
Management Strategies and Innovations: Important Roles to Sustainable Construction
by Bon-Gang Hwang and Ming Shan
Sustainability 2018, 10(3), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10030606 - 27 Feb 2018
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4004
Abstract
While sustainable construction has gained rapid growth worldwide in recent years, it is confronting various challenges and problems, particularly those from a management perspective. This Special Issue collects 16 original research articles relating to management strategies and innovations of sustainable construction, which are [...] Read more.
While sustainable construction has gained rapid growth worldwide in recent years, it is confronting various challenges and problems, particularly those from a management perspective. This Special Issue collects 16 original research articles relating to management strategies and innovations of sustainable construction, which are mainly concentrated in three areas: the adoption of sustainable construction technologies and products, the development of sustainable built environment, and the organization studies associated with sustainable construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)

Research

Jump to: Editorial

15 pages, 1144 KiB  
Article
Analyzing the Finishing Works Service Life Pattern of Public Housing in South Korea by Probabilistic Approach
by Soyeon Park, Yonghan Ahn and Sanghyo Lee
Sustainability 2018, 10(12), 4469; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10124469 - 28 Nov 2018
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2689
Abstract
Over recent decades, it has become essential to establish preventive long-term maintenance plans for public housing developments. Also, deterministic maintenance strategies have been increasingly replaced by those based on reliability and risk, which are probabilistic. Efforts to obtain optimized long-term maintenance plans have [...] Read more.
Over recent decades, it has become essential to establish preventive long-term maintenance plans for public housing developments. Also, deterministic maintenance strategies have been increasingly replaced by those based on reliability and risk, which are probabilistic. Efforts to obtain optimized long-term maintenance plans have included management of service life and prediction of service lifetime. Accordingly, the present research develops a system for various finishing works of public housing and analyzes the service life pattern of each component using a probabilistic approach. For the analysis, this research analyzed 46,201 South Korean public housing maintenance records from the last 21 years and determined the maintenance frequency distribution. The purpose of the research is to suggest efficient long-term maintenance plans using the analyzed results of service life patterns. Results from the analysis showed that each component has a different service life pattern that can be applied to establish the service lifetime and decision making for floating maintenance. Since the interaction between finishing works is affected due to various components and parameters, the results are useful to reduce the uncertainty and risk of deterministic maintenance plans. The meaning of this research is to analyze the service life pattern using a probabilistic approach and recommend how to establish an efficient maintenance system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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17 pages, 663 KiB  
Article
Effects of Project Manager Competency on Green Construction Performance: The Chinese Context
by Peidong Sang, Jinjian Liu, Lin Zhang, Lingqiao Zheng, Haona Yao and Yanjie Wang
Sustainability 2018, 10(10), 3406; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10103406 - 25 Sep 2018
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 6284
Abstract
Project manager competency is a key factor determining the success of a project. With the deterioration of the environment, green buildings have come into being. Compared to traditional buildings, green buildings encounter more complex problems during the construction process, and project managers are [...] Read more.
Project manager competency is a key factor determining the success of a project. With the deterioration of the environment, green buildings have come into being. Compared to traditional buildings, green buildings encounter more complex problems during the construction process, and project managers are faced with greater challenges. Existing research on the evaluation of project manager competency based on green building construction (GBC) is scarce. Thus, the aim of this paper is to evaluate project manager competency for green construction. By means of a literature review and a focus group meeting, the key success factors of green buildings and project manager competency were determined. Thereafter, a questionnaire survey was used to investigate people’s understanding of the importance of project manager skills. Structural equation modeling was selected to test the hypotheses. The results demonstrate that China is in the infancy of GBC development. Leadership and organization, target management, and emotional intelligence of project managers are considered to be important factors that affect green construction performance. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for the selection of excellent project managers for GBC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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23 pages, 2615 KiB  
Article
How Eco-Labelling Influences Environmentally Conscious Consumption of Construction Products
by Mariia Rochikashvili and Jan C. Bongaerts
Sustainability 2018, 10(2), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10020351 - 30 Jan 2018
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5967
Abstract
Interior wall paints and coatings may evaporate hazardous emissions such as volatile organic compound and formaldehyde. Hence, for these products, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) with information about toxicological and environmental properties and on safe handling practices must be handed out to professional [...] Read more.
Interior wall paints and coatings may evaporate hazardous emissions such as volatile organic compound and formaldehyde. Hence, for these products, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) with information about toxicological and environmental properties and on safe handling practices must be handed out to professional users. However, this obligation does not include end-users which places them at risk. In order to provide a service to the end-users, some German manufacturers issue an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). An EPD is a certificate for a construction product that is based on its Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This paper investigates potential solutions to direct end-users’ awareness of environmental and health effects of the products they purchase. Therefore, two questionnaire surveys are held on several trade fairs for construction products in Germany. On the one hand, the first survey targets visitors of these trade fairs, i.e., average consumers, or end-users of construction products. On the other hand, the second survey targets participants of these trade fairs that include manufacturers of indoor paints and varnishes as well as companies who use painting pigments in their manufacturing process, e.g., carpet floors and ceramics. The objectives of these surveys were to learn experts’ opinions on the transfer of relevant data, i.e., about health and environmental effects their products might cause, to end-users and compare them to those of the end-users. One of the outcomes of the survey shows that, according to the experts’ survey participants, Environmental Product Declarations are of main interest to make LCAs transparent. Moreover, the paper investigates the perception of one of the most broadly known eco-labels in Germany, the Blue Angel eco-label, by the average consumers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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22 pages, 482 KiB  
Article
Capital Cost Optimization for Prefabrication: A Factor Analysis Evaluation Model
by Hong Xue, Shoujian Zhang, Yikun Su and Zezhou Wu
Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010159 - 11 Jan 2018
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5528
Abstract
High capital cost is a significant hindrance to the promotion of prefabrication. In order to optimize cost management and reduce capital cost, this study aims to explore the latent factors and factor analysis evaluation model. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore potential variables [...] Read more.
High capital cost is a significant hindrance to the promotion of prefabrication. In order to optimize cost management and reduce capital cost, this study aims to explore the latent factors and factor analysis evaluation model. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore potential variables and then questionnaire survey was employed to collect professionals’ views on their effects. After data collection, exploratory factor analysis was adopted to explore the latent factors. Seven latent factors were identified, including “Management Index”, “Construction Dissipation Index”, “Productivity Index”, “Design Efficiency Index”, “Transport Dissipation Index”, “Material increment Index” and “Depreciation amortization Index”. With these latent factors, a factor analysis evaluation model (FAEM), divided into factor analysis model (FAM) and comprehensive evaluation model (CEM), was established. The FAM was used to explore the effect of observed variables on the high capital cost of prefabrication, while the CEM was used to evaluate comprehensive cost management level on prefabrication projects. Case studies were conducted to verify the models. The results revealed that collaborative management had a positive effect on capital cost of prefabrication. Material increment costs and labor costs had significant impacts on production cost. This study demonstrated the potential of on-site management and standardization design to reduce capital cost. Hence, collaborative management is necessary for cost management of prefabrication. Innovation and detailed design were needed to improve cost performance. The new form of precast component factories can be explored to reduce transportation cost. Meanwhile, targeted strategies can be adopted for different prefabrication projects. The findings optimized the capital cost and improved the cost performance through providing an evaluation and optimization model, which helps managers to evaluate cost management level of prefabrication and explore key inducers for high capital cost. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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3416 KiB  
Article
How Myopia Archetypes Lead to Non-Sustainability
by Piero Mella and Michela Pellicelli
Sustainability 2018, 10(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10010021 - 22 Dec 2017
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5897
Abstract
Much of the literature on sustainability has tried to define the “virtuous behaviour” of “agents” (man and his social and economic organizations) so that it respects the “sustainability constraint.” This paper provides a “mirror-image” approach, based on the idea that it is above [...] Read more.
Much of the literature on sustainability has tried to define the “virtuous behaviour” of “agents” (man and his social and economic organizations) so that it respects the “sustainability constraint.” This paper provides a “mirror-image” approach, based on the idea that it is above all necessary to understand why men and organizations tend to develop, at times unconsciously and dishonestly, damaging behaviour that turns into non-sustainability. In other words, to orient man toward sustainable behaviour it is indispensable to understand the “reasons” for the behaviour that produces non-sustainable effects. Regarding sustainability problems, we shall introduce the hypothesis that non-sustainable behaviour is not irrational in an absolute sense but derives from the action of three connected “behavioural archetypes” that accurately describe the “natural” behaviour of individuals in pursuing their aims: behaving in a way that will provide evident short-term advantages, both individual and local, while ignoring the disadvantages and harm such behaviour produces in the long run, at the collective and global level. To solve the problem, we shall try to identify the “levers” that weaken the archetypes and reverse their effects, thereby requiring sacrifices which are unacceptable to some. The paper presents four emblematic cases of non-sustainable behaviour and demonstrates that sustainability must become a fundamental strategic driver. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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1736 KiB  
Article
Reciprocal Relations between Official Development Assistance Recipient and Donor Countries: Case of South Korean Overseas Construction Business and Southeast Asian Countries’ Economy
by Suk-Won Lee, Jae-Jun Kim and Ju-Hyung Kim
Sustainability 2017, 9(12), 2274; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9122274 - 08 Dec 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4869
Abstract
In developing countries, official development assistance (ODA) is generally perceived to be an alternative means to develop infrastructure. Donor countries may expect benefits such as increased construction project orders in recipient countries. However, it remains arguable whether ODA contributes to reciprocal relations between [...] Read more.
In developing countries, official development assistance (ODA) is generally perceived to be an alternative means to develop infrastructure. Donor countries may expect benefits such as increased construction project orders in recipient countries. However, it remains arguable whether ODA contributes to reciprocal relations between recipient and donor countries. The case of South Korea can provide empirical data given that its government has expanded the amount of ODA to encourage overseas construction business while supporting Southeast Asian countries. In this research, gross national income (GNI), gross domestic product (GDP), foreign direct investment (FDI), and construction project orders awarded by South Korean construction companies in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are analyzed according to the variation of ODA awarded by South Korea. The analysis results show that the influence of ODA upon economic situation of recipient countries varies according to their economic volume and development policy. From the donor country’s perspective, enhanced performance of construction business can be expected by means of cooperation with local construction business. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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3219 KiB  
Article
A Spatial Disaster Assessment Model of Social Resilience Based on Geographically Weighted Regression
by Hwikyung Chun, Seokho Chi and Bon Gang Hwang
Sustainability 2017, 9(12), 2222; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9122222 - 04 Dec 2017
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5903
Abstract
Since avoiding the occurrence of natural disasters is difficult, building ‘resilient cities’ is gaining more attention as a common objective within urban communities. By enhancing community resilience, it is possible to minimize the direct and indirect losses from disasters. However, current studies have [...] Read more.
Since avoiding the occurrence of natural disasters is difficult, building ‘resilient cities’ is gaining more attention as a common objective within urban communities. By enhancing community resilience, it is possible to minimize the direct and indirect losses from disasters. However, current studies have focused more on physical aspects, despite the fact that social aspects may have a closer relation to the inhabitants. The objective of this paper is to develop an assessment model for social resilience by measuring the heterogeneity of local indicators that are related to disaster risk. Firstly, variables were selected by investigating previous assessment models with statistical verification. Secondly, spatial heterogeneity was analyzed using the Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) method. A case study was then undertaken on a flood-prone area in the metropolitan city, Seoul, South Korea. Based on the findings, the paper proposes a new spatial disaster assessment model that can be used for disaster management at the local levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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1103 KiB  
Article
Analyzing Drivers of Conflict in Energy Infrastructure Projects: Empirical Case Study of Natural Gas Pipeline Sectors
by Chan Young Park, Seung Heon Han, Kang-Wook Lee and Yong Myoung Lee
Sustainability 2017, 9(11), 2031; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9112031 - 06 Nov 2017
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6343
Abstract
Energy infrastructure projects have caused various conflicts between stakeholders, particularly among the residents around construction sites and operators. The conflicts are largely due to the “Not in My Backyard” mentality associated with hazardous projects. In natural gas pipeline (NGP) projects, conflicts have been [...] Read more.
Energy infrastructure projects have caused various conflicts between stakeholders, particularly among the residents around construction sites and operators. The conflicts are largely due to the “Not in My Backyard” mentality associated with hazardous projects. In natural gas pipeline (NGP) projects, conflicts have been increasing with the increase in a wider range of linear projects, and they have been worsening because of the lack of clear countermeasures. This study proposes an effective conflict management strategy for NGP projects in Korea. To achieve the objectives, 25 conflict drivers were identified and 143 case-based surveys were conducted to determine the causal relationship between the drivers and the level of conflict using structural equation modeling (SEM). The SEM results show that factors such as economic (e.g., decreased value of the land), construction-related (e.g., disturbance due to using the original route and site), and safety-related characteristics (e.g., concerns about explosions and accidents) are the most important in understanding the causes of conflicts. Based on the causal relationship, five key strategies were proposed to manage the critical conflicts. This study can serve as a basis for implementing better conflict management plans in the future for a more sustainable project execution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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431 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Transformational Leadership on Employee Sustainable Performance: The Mediating Role of Organizational Citizenship Behavior
by Weiping Jiang, Xianbo Zhao and Jiongbin Ni
Sustainability 2017, 9(9), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9091567 - 04 Sep 2017
Cited by 101 | Viewed by 22730
Abstract
Transformational leadership has drawn extensive attention in management research. In this field, the influence of transformational leadership on employee performance is an important branch. Recent research indicates that organizational citizenship behavior plays a mediating role between transformational leadership and employee performance. However, some [...] Read more.
Transformational leadership has drawn extensive attention in management research. In this field, the influence of transformational leadership on employee performance is an important branch. Recent research indicates that organizational citizenship behavior plays a mediating role between transformational leadership and employee performance. However, some of these findings contradict each other. Given the background where greater attention is being paid to transformational leadership in the construction industry, this research aims to find the degree of the influence of transformational leadership on employee sustainable performance, as well as the mediating role of organizational citizenship behavior. A total of 389 questionnaires were collected from contractors and analyzed via structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that employee sustainable performance is positively influenced by transformational leadership. In addition, more than half of that influence is mediated by their organizational citizenship behavior. These findings remind project managers of the need to pay close attention to transformational leadership, to cultivate organizational citizenship behavior, and thereby to eventually improve employee’s sustainable performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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1122 KiB  
Article
Factors Affecting the Capital Cost of Prefabrication—A Case Study of China
by Hong Xue, Shoujian Zhang, Yikun Su and Zezhou Wu
Sustainability 2017, 9(9), 1512; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9091512 - 24 Aug 2017
Cited by 48 | Viewed by 8091
Abstract
As a sustainable construction method, prefabrication has become popular in many nations. However, there are many challenges for prefabrication, especially in terms of cost. Previous studies have revealed that higher capital cost was the most important barrier to the implementation of prefabrication. Thus, [...] Read more.
As a sustainable construction method, prefabrication has become popular in many nations. However, there are many challenges for prefabrication, especially in terms of cost. Previous studies have revealed that higher capital cost was the most important barrier to the implementation of prefabrication. Thus, the objective of this study is to explore and evaluate the critical factors affecting the capital cost of prefabrication and examine how cost management may be affected by the “experience”, “corporate responsibility”, and “participant function” as a fix independent factors. To achieve the research objective, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 experts for the development of the questionnaire. Then, a questionnaire survey was conducted to investigate the significance of 49 factors related to prefabrication capital cost. The survey results revealed that “Specification and standards for prefabricated building design”, “Related experience of manager”, and “Rationality of precast component split” were the most critical factors. In addition, “experience”, “corporate responsibility”, and “participant function” had significant impact on the evaluation of capital cost factors. The findings can facilitate developing a benchmark framework for exploring the factors affecting the capital cost of prefabrication in China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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15779 KiB  
Article
Proximity Warning and Excavator Control System for Prevention of Collision Accidents
by Byung-Wan Jo, Yun-Sung Lee, Jung-Hoon Kim, Do-Keun Kim and Pyung-Ho Choi
Sustainability 2017, 9(8), 1488; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9081488 - 22 Aug 2017
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 16166
Abstract
Construction is a hazardous industry in which accidents occur frequently. Occupational accidents at construction sites are a serious public health issue in Korea. Construction site conditions often create dangerous situations by requiring workers and heavy equipment to work in close proximity to each [...] Read more.
Construction is a hazardous industry in which accidents occur frequently. Occupational accidents at construction sites are a serious public health issue in Korea. Construction site conditions often create dangerous situations by requiring workers and heavy equipment to work in close proximity to each other. In 2015, approximately 11% (46) of the 437 occupational fatalities in the construction industry in Korea resulted from workers colliding with objects or equipment. In this paper, we present a proximity warning system developed to address this issue and enhance safety at construction sites. The proposed technology functions in real time to alert workers and equipment operators of hazardous proximity situations. Also, when the radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor detects an approaching worker, the main board instantly shuts down the excavator for the prevention of accident. This system contains an RFID tag, RFID reader, alarm device, camera, a display device (the Around View Monitor), and excavator control technology. A field test demonstrated successful performance of the proposed system. It is widely applicable in small construction fields alongside excavators and other equipment because this system does not require additional communication infrastructure, such as servers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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10135 KiB  
Article
Energy and Sustainable Strategies in the Renovation of Existing Buildings: An Italian Case Study
by Pierluigi De Berardinis, Marianna Rotilio and Luisa Capannolo
Sustainability 2017, 9(8), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9081472 - 19 Aug 2017
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6866
Abstract
The re-use of historical buildings, in some cases those that have been abandoned for years, is currently generating a lot of interest, and brings into discussion topics such as land recycling and the use of new resources. Our project on the rehabilitation of [...] Read more.
The re-use of historical buildings, in some cases those that have been abandoned for years, is currently generating a lot of interest, and brings into discussion topics such as land recycling and the use of new resources. Our project on the rehabilitation of the former San Salvatore hospital in L’Aquila is an example of this re-use, and illustrates how best-practice strategies can be implemented in the rehabilitation of an existing building. There were two themes of evaluation: firstly, the adaptive re-use of a historical building of great impact in a strategic position within the urban core; secondly, the implementation of sustainable strategies when upgrading both the building envelope and building systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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3898 KiB  
Article
A Spatial-Territorial Reorganization Model of Rural Settlements Based on Graph Theory and Genetic Optimization
by Yan Mao, Yanfang Liu, Haofeng Wang, Wei Tang and Xuesong Kong
Sustainability 2017, 9(8), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9081370 - 03 Aug 2017
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5481
Abstract
Rural China has experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization, accompanied with rural–urban migration since 1978. This tremendous transition has caused a series of negative consequences, necessitating a spatial-territorial reorganization of rural settlements. Previous studies on the restructuring of rural settlements are insufficient for inter-settlement [...] Read more.
Rural China has experienced rapid urbanization and industrialization, accompanied with rural–urban migration since 1978. This tremendous transition has caused a series of negative consequences, necessitating a spatial-territorial reorganization of rural settlements. Previous studies on the restructuring of rural settlements are insufficient for inter-settlement connection consideration and practical and dynamic decision-making techniques. To overcome these concerns, a dynamic spatial-territorial reorganization model (SRM) of rural settlement is proposed herein based on graph theory and genetic algorithm (GA). The model involves two parts. In Part 1, consolidated settlements are identified according to the socio-economic network performance under four types of attack. In Part 2, GA model is repeatedly executed to scientifically resettle consolidated settlements into nearby townships or central settlements with objectives of suitability, compactness, and local connectivity under the control of the constraints. This paper presents an application of SRM to Chengui Town, Hubei Province. Empirical results suggest that: (1) removing settlements in order of node degree is the least efficient way to destroy the entire functional system; and (2) the proposed model can yield satisfactory solutions in terms of spatial reorganization of settlements. The SRM may also serve as a valuable reference for planners in devising plans and making decisions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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3110 KiB  
Article
Effects of Half-Precast Concrete Slab System on Construction Productivity
by Kyuman Cho, Young-su Shin and Taehoon Kim
Sustainability 2017, 9(7), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9071268 - 19 Jul 2017
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8603
Abstract
A half-precast concrete slab system (HPCSS) is reported to exhibit excellent structural performance when compared with traditional slab systems. However, there is a lack of extant research examining the construction issues of an HPCSS. Thus, in this study, we analyze the construction process [...] Read more.
A half-precast concrete slab system (HPCSS) is reported to exhibit excellent structural performance when compared with traditional slab systems. However, there is a lack of extant research examining the construction issues of an HPCSS. Thus, in this study, we analyze the construction process and productivity of applying an HPCSS by using a simulation method with the data collected from an actual construction case. The results indicate that (i) the construction productivity of HPCSS is 1.7 times that of a traditional slab system, (ii) the cost per productivity unit of HPCSS exceeds that of a traditional slab system, and (iii) critical resources affecting the HPCSS productivity include form crew and rebar crew. The results of this study suggest that it is possible to develop an optimal construction plan of a construction site in which an HPCSS is installed, and that the HPCSS can be actively applied in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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2707 KiB  
Article
Incentive Model Based on Cooperative Relationship in Sustainable Construction Projects
by Guangdong Wu, Jian Zuo and Xianbo Zhao
Sustainability 2017, 9(7), 1191; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9071191 - 06 Jul 2017
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8392
Abstract
Considering the cooperative relationship between owners and contractors in sustainable construction projects, as well as the synergistic effects created by cooperative behaviors, a cooperative incentive model was developed using game theory. The model was formulated and analyzed under both non-moral hazard and moral [...] Read more.
Considering the cooperative relationship between owners and contractors in sustainable construction projects, as well as the synergistic effects created by cooperative behaviors, a cooperative incentive model was developed using game theory. The model was formulated and analyzed under both non-moral hazard and moral hazard situations. Then, a numerical simulation and example were proposed to verify the conclusions derived from the model. The results showed that the synergistic effect increases the input intensity of one party’s resource transfer into the increase of marginal utility of the other party, thus the owner and contractor are willing to enhance their levels of effort. One party’s optimal benefit allocation coefficient is positively affected by its own output efficiency, and negatively affected by the other party’s output efficiency. The effort level and expected benefits of the owner and contractor can be improved by enhancing the cooperative relationship between the two parties, as well as enhancing the net benefits of a sustainable construction project. The synergistic effect cannot lower the negative effect of moral hazard behaviors during the implementation of sustainable construction projects. Conversely, the higher levels of the cooperative relationship, the wider the gaps amongst the optimal values under both non-moral hazard and moral hazard situations for the levels of effort, expected benefits and net project benefits. Since few studies to date have emphasized the effects of cooperative relationship on sustainable construction projects, this study constructed a game-based incentive model to bridge the gaps. This study contributes significant theoretical and practical insights into the management of cooperation amongst stakeholders, and into the enhancement of the overall benefits of sustainable construction projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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480 KiB  
Article
An Exploratory Analysis of Risks in Green Residential Building Construction Projects: The Case of Singapore
by Bon-Gang Hwang, Ming Shan, Helena Phua and Seokho Chi
Sustainability 2017, 9(7), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9071116 - 26 Jun 2017
Cited by 65 | Viewed by 8256
Abstract
Recently, an increasing number of green residential buildings have been developed worldwide owing to active promotion from the authorities and increasing interest from customers. However, in the same way as traditional residential buildings, the construction of green residential buildings faces various risks. The [...] Read more.
Recently, an increasing number of green residential buildings have been developed worldwide owing to active promotion from the authorities and increasing interest from customers. However, in the same way as traditional residential buildings, the construction of green residential buildings faces various risks. The aims of this study are to identify and assess the diverse risks in green residential building construction projects, compare their risk criticalities with those in traditional counterparts, and propose helpful risk mitigation measures. To achieve these goals, a comprehensive literature review was first conducted, and a questionnaire was then administered to 30 construction companies in Singapore. Survey results showed that “complex procedures to obtain approvals”, “overlooked high initial cost”, “unclear requirements of owners”, “employment constraint”, and “lack of availability of green materials and equipment” were the top five critical risks in green residential building construction projects. Survey results also showed that green residential building projects were facing risks at a more critical level than those traditional residential building projects. Additionally, this study proposed fourteen risk mitigation measures to tackle the risks in green residential building construction projects. This study has contributed to the body of knowledge by identifying and evaluating the critical risks and mitigation measures in green residential building construction projects. Meanwhile, the findings from this study can also provide an in-depth understanding of risk management in green residential building construction projects to practitioners and thus benefit the practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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1548 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of the Policy of the Creative Industry for Urban Development
by Yu-Yun Liu and Yin-Hao Chiu
Sustainability 2017, 9(6), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9061009 - 11 Jun 2017
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7007
Abstract
Culture, an intellectual capital of a city, is accumulated through the intellect and wisdom of the government, citizens, businesses and other organizations. Cities regardless of their size are seeking their own distinguishing features and positions. By combining culture and creativity to improve international [...] Read more.
Culture, an intellectual capital of a city, is accumulated through the intellect and wisdom of the government, citizens, businesses and other organizations. Cities regardless of their size are seeking their own distinguishing features and positions. By combining culture and creativity to improve international visibility, cities can develop new potentials, create job opportunities and boost economic growth. Therefore, cultural and creative industries have become the core industries that cities worldwide actively seek to develop; furthermore, various city governments have unanimously agreed that the creative industry will effectively improve urban economic competitiveness. This study investigated how the creative industry improved urban competitiveness, developed relevant assessment indexes and formulated policies for developing the creative industry. First, the fuzzy Delphi method was adopted to determine the indexes for assessing the creative industry’s positive influence on urban competitiveness. Subsequently, the analytic hierarchy process and the analytic network process were integrated to establish a model for assessing city-based creative industry development policies. City governments seeking to promote such policies can refer to this model. Finally, an importance-performance analysis was performed to investigate the satisfaction for policies related to creative industries, providing a reference for governments to promote pertinent policies. The results of this study indicated that the indexes of innovation capability, industrial cooperation, innovation incubation and industry-government-academia integration are crucial bases for cities to develop the creative industry. In addition, the policies of industrial R&D and clustering, talent training and industrial consulting and expanding industrial and marketing channels and networks can be adopted to enhance creative industry development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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705 KiB  
Article
Strategies for Promoting Green Building Technologies Adoption in the Construction Industry—An International Study
by Albert Ping Chuen Chan, Amos Darko and Ernest Effah Ameyaw
Sustainability 2017, 9(6), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/su9060969 - 06 Jun 2017
Cited by 131 | Viewed by 17989
Abstract
Because green building technologies (GBTs) adoption is a promising way of ameliorating the sustainability performance of buildings, GBTs are receiving increased interest in the global construction community. The barriers to the adoption of GBTs, such as higher cost and lack of awareness, further [...] Read more.
Because green building technologies (GBTs) adoption is a promising way of ameliorating the sustainability performance of buildings, GBTs are receiving increased interest in the global construction community. The barriers to the adoption of GBTs, such as higher cost and lack of awareness, further indicate that proper strategies need to be devised for promoting the wider adoption of GBTs in buildings development. However, there exist limited empirical studies identifying the strategies for promoting GBTs adoption in the construction industry. This study aims to identify the strategies that are important for promoting GBTs adoption in construction. After a comprehensive literature review to identify strategies for the promotion of GBTs adoption, empirical data were gleaned through a questionnaire survey with 104 green building experts around the world. The analysis results validated the importance of all of the 12 promotion strategies used for the study. Green building experts from different countries and with different backgrounds had significant agreement on the relative importance ranking of the promotion strategies. Furthermore, “financial and further market-based incentives for GBTs adopters”, “availability of better information on cost and benefits of GBTs”, “mandatory governmental policies and regulations”, and “green rating and labeling” were identified as the top four important promotion strategies. The research findings provide a valuable reference to assist practitioners and policy makers in developing practical strategies for promoting GBTs adoption to eventually achieve the sustainable development of buildings. From the perspective of international experts, this study adds to the green building literature by offering empirical evidence of the important strategies for promoting GBTs adoption in the construction industry. Future research will investigate the interrelationships among the promotion strategies and their impacts on the GBTs adoption process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management Strategies and Innovations for Sustainable Construction)
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